Celebration 2012

"Room With a View"

     I spent almost six days in "Paradise" (at least it felt like what I imagine Paradise to be).  I stayed in an air-conditioned room and enjoyed the view above from my window.

Notice the air-conditioner!

My wonderful bathtub!

     Every morning after breakfast and each evening before supper we had our worship sessions.  What a blessing to be a part of this great body of believers singing praises to our Great God and led by a wonderful worship team.  The two men who delivered the messages spoke to us about holiness.  It was a blessing to hear God's Word shared with us by such gifted men of God.  We were challenged to be holy in all that we do and to have a holy faith, holy hope, and holy love.
     In some of our other sessions we heard from various personnel within our company who were there to answer any questions we might have or help us out in any way.  I can't honestly say those sessions were inspirational but I did enjoy getting to put faces to the names of people who send me emails from time to time.
     Much of our afternoons were free so I was able to relax by the pool or beach, walk around and enjoy the things God has created, and visit with friends.

Weaver bird

Monitor lizard

     Each evening some of us would gather together to play games.  I was a part of a group that played the game "Fishbowl."  It provided a lot of entertainment and laughter for all involved.  I can't wait to share this game with my family and friends when I get back home!  Hope all of you are ready for some fun!
     I really enjoyed getting to be around friends I have made while being in Senegal.  It also provided the opportunity to meet many new friends who are serving in various places.  And I must admit that I REALLY enjoyed eating three wonderful meals a day that I didn't have to prepare myself.  As a result of all that food, I did make myself go to the fitness room a few times and get in some exercise.  This was a wonderful way to end my first year of service in Senegal and boost me up for my last year of service.

Summer Days

     Since returning to Fatick from my vacation in the US life has been at a much slower pace.  I spent the first couple of weeks cleaning up the place and reorganizing things.  The classroom is all set up for the beginning of school and I've even completed the first week's lesson plans.  We have been to Saly a couple of times for shopping and swimming.  Last week I went to Dakar to study Wolof with my teacher, Patricia.  It was a good week but quite tiring.  Progress is being made, though, because I'm understanding a bit more of the language.  And sometimes I even remember what I'm supposed to say!
     While I was away the work on my back door got finished and my water filter is now working.  Woohoo!  We purchased a new stove (my old one only had two working eyes) and I bought some new towels for the other bathroom.  Everything is just about ready for the two girls who will be living with me for four months beginning August 9.  My new stove has six eyes so we should be able to do some major cooking.
     Rainy season has begun which has brought on more humidity.  At least the temperature cools off some during and right after the rain.  Things are turning green and the dust has settled down.  Now that the screen is on my back door I can open up the metal door and have better ventilation which keeps my house from being so hot.