Marick

Sorry for the much delayed post on my Tanzania trip!
I got home from Tanzania and Uganda two weeks ago, and I finally feel all caught up. I had a wonderful time in Tanzania! The group I met up with from Ohio were all sweet. This most recent trip was a little rougher than my previous times in Africa. Bucket showers (cold water only) and minimal electricity. I survived just fine. It's amazing how relative things are...like hot water. This trip made me more reflective as well. Even the rainy season had so much more meaning than before. Rain equals life. People have food and clean water. In the states, it's just an inconvenience. I'm very thankful that God still shows me new areas in my life to be grateful for.
The highlight to my trip was meeting my Marick for the first time. He started out very shy (probably very overwhelmed!) But as the day progressed, we played football and had lunch, he started to open up and smile more. After lunch I gave him the backpack I brought with clothes, school supplies and a watch. Of everything he reacted most to the watch and two notebooks with fish on the front. His uncle, who made the 12 hour bus ride with Marick, told me that no other children in his town have anything that I had just given him. I've been thanking God for the opportunity to visit my child at this time. He definitely needs prayer. His family needs my prayers. But most importantly to be an advocate for my child. Marick now knows the person behind the letters and that this person loves him more than anything. I am in his corner to support him not only with a check each month but emotionally and spiritually! He is so smart and wants to be a pilot when he grows up. Top in his class in math! I'm such a proud mom!!!

Giving Marick his clothes and school supplies.

Marick with his Uncle leaving the Compassion office.

My sweet little boy!

*A special thanks to Allison Adams for buying a necklace. The soccer ball and a portion of the school supplies were purchased using your gift towards my trip. Thank you!
Many many thank yous to everyone who has helped support my travels. God is using your generous gifts by allowing me to keep going back to Africa. He is using your support to touch many lives that otherwise might not see God's love. Because of your support, all things are possible. Much love to each of you.

More updates to come about my move to Uganda this summer.