All fun and games

The kids and I had such a blast at the refugee center's "fun day" today. These students are super competitive, whether it's games in class or a fill-the-soda-bottle relay. Love these people--and wanted to give you a glimpse into the lovely souls I get to interact with and ham it up with during Bible class every Thursday.

 

I think enrollment for the center is at about 400 right now, and their classes (and teams here) are organized by English advancement. I only teach one of these levels, and most of the close-ups here are of my students. 

 

My cheeks hurt from smiling today, and honestly, my heart hurt as we pray for our work permit to be renewed, to be able to continue in the work here. For now--I just want to share a little of my joy with you.

Stomping on the balloons tied to their legs...

...and triumphing raucously over the sack race.

Some of these ladies make my class tremendously happy. They are so kind--and a lot of fun.

 

 

 

Family life in photo, part 2

Meet our lovely-all-the-way-through friend, Hope. She's stayed with us weekly on the days she's spent in our office--and we're thrilled to report that she'll now be working with John in Human Resources.

J. collecting avocados in his jammies.

Taking ballet this year!

Playing football "jackpot" with Dad.

I've waited so long for this post that now he's riding without the training wheels--!

J. is now the big 5! Cannot BELIEVE the blessing of his energy, love for people, and humor for our family. God knew just what our family needed!

Having a real "American" cookout in our driveway, complete with hotdogs.

Family life in photo

It's been embarrassingly long since I've updated you with pictures, or anything in general. In my mind I chalk that up to the "tyranny of the urgent"...excuses, excuses. But we've accumulated so much fun I'll have to spread it out in a couple of posts!

B. exploring our avocado tree.

I would call this "excitement," but somehow this look surpasses that. B. had a fantastic tenth birthday. My personal highlight: The next day, he told me he would like to do the dishes so I could go take a nap. ?!! Every once in awhile, God gives you a little glimpse to encourage you as a parent. Love this strong, thoughtful boy.

More birthdays. Can you believe this sweet girl is 7? This was taken on her birthday! But I'm the one who feels like she got an incredible gift. Can't believe this compassionate, beautiful (inside, plus out!), intelligent, creative little lady is our precious gift from God!

 

 

 

J. with "Oliver the Great!" They are fantastic friends--and she is an invaluable resource to us here. We love watching her grow in her love for God and witnessing her heart for the poor...what am I talking about? We love her, period.

 

Playing "Continent Twister". We've started school already so we can take off school whenever we need to--like when family visits us in September? Can you hear our shout of glee from over there?!

A handful of our crazy, incredible friends over here. I cannot take for granted that we are surrounded by such a supportive community--including a ton of friends for our kids.

Dissecting a cow eyeball for school. This is when you're thankful the other homeschooling mom has a zoology degree and you get to take the pictures.

C. at Family Fun Day.

 

This is the smile I get right after he plays sports! *Man,* I am in love...