The Lord works in mysterious ways!

So it's official... Africa holds my heart.  I have only been home for 4 months, but it seems like a lifetime. One of the things I like about returning from a missions trip, is I am so on fire for Jesus, and truthfully a lot less selfish.  Having those perfect new jeans that are $150.. NO WAY  Do you have any idea how many children you could feed for that amount of money.  I often wonder if when I do missions work if I always paint the whole picture.  The truth is, it's a very sad Country.  The word poor doesn't seem adequate. Not knowing where your next meal is coming from.. In your cramped 8x8 mud hut... with your 5 children.. A worn mattress on the floor and a thin sheet separating their 8x8 "cell" into a bedroom and kitchen.  Folks these people don't have refrigerators, most don't have electricity.  Washer and dryer?? What's that.. You wash your clothing with soap outside on the cement.   Most of the places I have been families have a charcoal stove to cook what little mom managed to afford that day.

Despite the horrible living conditions, these people are so happy!  They are so thankful for even the smallest thing.  I wish I could be like that. ... grateful no matter what!  It's hard.. Isn't it what the Bible tells us to do:  In everything give thanks!  Go into the world and preach, feed the thirsty man, give food to the woman who has none.  Help someone take their 6 children on a boda (motorcycle) too see a Doctor where the wait times are unbelieveable, but they have no choice.  I don't think I'll complain the next time I have to visit the ER.  Comfy chairs, air conditioning or heat a tv.. even a cafeteria.

In February I'm returning for 2 months to Amani Baby Cottage in Jinja Uganda, where I volunteered last year.  It is an amazing place for kids.  They are so loved and cared for.  I miss hearing "Auntie Nicole" everywhere I walk!

As some of you may know I've had some pretty major changes in my life in the last couple of months, and as I prayed and started thinking about this trip, I have an amazing peace.  God is faithful He will never close a door or an opportunity without having something even better in store for me!

If you still want to make a donation to my trip, you can do so at the top of the page under the donate link!  Thanks for all your support and prayers !  



God bless