Nairobi

While we were hearing about a team from the States that was not allowed to work in Kenya, probably due to news reports of increased terrorism, it was our destination of choice for a place to retreat. :)  Because security is on the rise, there are security people at the entrance of every significant building who wield their hand-held scanners with enthusiasm.  When our persons or bags would beep insistently, and I would offer to open my purse, they would wave me on with indifference, "No, no, we don't need to see in your purse.  Move along!" Racial profiling hasn't hit Kenya yet.
Our Australian friends, who visited there recently, became so accustomed to the car check that their children would promptly announce, when the trunk opened,
"We don't have any bombs in here!"

Some people come into your life and make their exit and you rarely think of them again.  Some people barge in and make themselves at home in your heart and you can't EVER get them out! :)  Such is the case with our friends Chris and Lindy.  We are actually the ones who barged in when Kate was born--waiting in Nairobi, waiting and waiting and waiting, and all that time God used to deepen this great friendship with strangers who had invited us to stay with them!  

Chris and Lindy and their baby Ezra (our temporary 9th lump of clay at the top:)) are leaving Africa and moving back to the States.  We had a week with them in Nairobi, enjoying their family, resting and playing.  

We are so thankful for these friends--they have encouraged and sharpened us, prayed for us and given Godly counsel.  They are true servants and look for every opportunity to bless others.  We cherish them and their ministry and we praise God for giving them to us!