Our last day in the village AND Safari!

Our last day in the village started off with working in the morning. We had aimed to finish the fascia on House 7, start putting the puzzle of trusses together which arrived in the container, as well as finishing off the little jobs at Subbi House (I'm still not sure how to spell that). However, it started to rain. So our plans were changed around a little. Instead of working, we went into Jinja to do some last minute shopping and to have another amazing cookie milkshake (or two for some).

We had lunch again at Subi and by that time the rain had cleared, so back to work for us. To be honest, it was quite difficult to maintain motivation on the last day, as well as the couple before that. Thanks to God though, we all kept working hard, and are proud of our efforts. The fascia was completed on House 7, and readily awaits the roofing iron to go on. The framing for the kitchen was pretty much finished, and we also cleaned up the shed (not sure how long it will stay like that).

In the evening, we had a delicious meal of rice and beans with the children and mamas. We also shared in a very special Devotions time with the village. We each had a chance to say a few words, and pretty much everyone suggested that one day they would like to come back.

I've been trying to reflect on how best to describe this trip. My conclusion is that it is too hard. The photos you have seen do not give the people, place or God's creation the justice that they deserve. Yes we have blessed the people of Uganda, more specifically those associated with the village, but they have given back so much more than I could ever have imagined. It is so clear how well God orchestrates these trips and the relationships that are made.

Saying good bye was certainly hard. Not knowing when we would see these beautiful people again, makes it even harder. Knowing that God has the village and their community in his hands, really is a comforting thought. The hope that we have given them, by giving up our time and money is so truly appreciated by them, it is well worth it. The experiences we have had and the people we have met, have changed each of us, for the better. I thank God so much for my time and for his blessings.

As tradition, we finished our trip off with a safari. Once again, this experience showed me how amazing our God is. His creation, his design, his beauty - are just so unfathomable. It was a great chance to bond with the team, share experiences, stories and reminisce. Talking about highlights and things that challenged us, as well as encouraging each other - was really valued. We saw some of the most amazing animals in such a beautiful place. The accommodation (a tent), was far above my expectations, as well as the food. The sundowner in the Masai, was particularly a highlight for me. Watching the sun go down, taking silly photos, and spending time with my new friends was awesome.

 

(Thanks Ingrid for the safari photos set up)

As we started our travels home, it seemed that each flight, we lost team members (intentionally of course). It started with Mark leaving for home before safari. We said good bye to Ingrid and Michelle in Nairobi, after a beautiful dinner. Next to leave us was Glenn and Nathaniel, as they are staying in Dubai for some quality father son time, and no doubt for some well earned rest for Glenn in particular. Then there were five. Coby, Michelle V, Brad, Marty and myself, all arrived home safely this morning.

Thank you so much for reading our blog, following our stories and whats happening, as well as the encouragement and prayers that have gone up. We are very thankful for all of it. Well, until the next team, please keep praying for the work that God is doing in the Village of Hope and Wairaka.

I would really love to commend Glenn at this time as well. The way he lead our team, whole heartedly, selflessly, and so professionally (most of the time) was appreciated by all of us. He did absolutely everything he could to make it as successful as it was, as well as his list of other things to tick off whilst he was there too.

I'm sure as a team, we'd also love further prayer on settling back into what we know as reality, without forgetting or compromising the new things we have learnt and value.

Michelle B