long overdue blog

Sorry it has been so long since I posted something on our blog.  I wrote a very long, informative blog but was unable to upload it and get it posted.  I got discouraged and then kind of just forgot about the blog for a while.  I will try to do better!

There is so much to tell.  So much everyday that I wish you all could know, see, smell, experience!  

We are moving tomorrow into our “home”.  We have been living in the apartments in the TransWorld Radio building since we got here.  We love it here, especially the location (right downtown) and the neighbors!  But God has provided something we didn’t even dare hope for….  We found a beautiful home to move into that is essentially two homes in one.  There are 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, living, dining and full kitchen UPstairs.  And 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, living/dining and full kitchen DOWNstairs.  Also….a separate smaller building that is perfect for a school room!  The grounds are absolutely gorgeous with palm trees, beautiful landscaping, a Guava tree, large magnolia and…..a Pool!!   We will be able to split the rent which will end up being well within our budget.  The neighborhood we had hoped to live in has raised their rent considerably which made it well OUTSIDE our budget.  We are all looking forward to unpacking our suitcases and getting settled.

This time of year is very different for the AIM staff here in Swaziland than it is during other times of the year.  There are no visiting teams coming until mid January.  Most of the Swazi staff will have several weeks off right around Christmas.  Most of the American AIM staff will be going home for the holidays this year, and Kriek and Jumbo have left already to go to South Africa to await the birth of baby Clara.  This essentially leaves the McAdams and the Clyburns and a few of the Swazi nationals to “hold down the fort” over the holidays.

We are working now on having Christmas parties for each of the Carepoints.  We have been shopping for gifts for approximately 1700 children!  We will be assembling and giving out “gifts” of toiletries, bowls, spoons, cups, washcloths, fruit, candy, cookies (biscuits), a cupcake, and some fun little toys for the younger children.  Please pray for us as we organize and plan these parties.  In the past, there have been definite spiritual attacks surrounding these parties….problems with vehicles, accidents, etc.  These times with the kids are not only fun for them, but also so meaningful spiritually as we share with them the most precious Gift of all, Jesus.

There is another project that Steve and Mark are working on that will be taking place in December.  It is a film that is being made to raise awareness about Swaziland.  There is a group actually walking across Swaziland, from Nsoko in the south, to Piggs Peak in the north.  Steve and Mark are planning their route, with Carepoint stops along the  way.  We will be responsible for finding food and lodging for the walkers and film crew along the way and driving along with them to help meet needs as they arise.  This walk takes place from a few days before Christmas until a couple of days after Christmas.  Pray for safety for the walkers and for wisdom for us as we plan their days.

We are excited about all the God is doing here in Swaziland, and for the privilege to be a small part of it all.  Thank you for your prayers and support….keep praying!