Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Monday, September 14, 2009
Saturday, August 8, 2009
Words Cannot Capture
This morning I woke up in Africa for the last time. I am so sad to leave Africa, but am excited to come back to Atlanta to share this wonderful place with friends and family. I wonder how words and pictures could possibly come close to showing the heart of Africa. I cannot capture in words Legho Village's charm, worshipping with people from all over the world, the genuine love that is given, the hearts of the YL leaders, the servant hearts encountered, the way it feels to hug a child in poverty or without parents, the view from a peak, the majesty of a lion pride, or the things God revealed.
See you all soon!
Elizabeth
See you all soon!
Elizabeth
Kili team back in Arusha
Just got a phone call from Mark. He said to let everyone know that the Kili climbers all made it safely down the mountain and are at the hotel in Arusha anxiously awaiting showers! He said they were all doing well, were in good spirits and had many stories to tell. They are going to dinner after showering - I believe they are reunited with the Safari team - and then all are looking forward to a night's sleep in a bed!
Friday, August 7, 2009
The summit
15 people set out at midnight to go to the summit and all 15 made it to the top! Everyone is fine but exhausted. That was the hardest thing I ever tried and your kids and husbands all came through. We still have more hiking today, but wanted to pass on the good news. Congrats to my daughter Kathleen on her 2nd summit in 2 years! Don't know if anyone wants to try again! One more night in the tents!
Mark Block
Mark Block
Thursday, August 6, 2009
United in Love
Yesterday we flew back to Arusha from the Serengeti. The Serengeti airport is smack in the middle of the Serengeti plains and consisted of a small hut and a dirt runway. Our plane sat 12 not including the pilots. The flight back was spectacular; adding another once in a lifetime experience to our mounting list. We saw aerial views of the Serengeti, the Ngorongoro Crater, and the surrounding mountains.
Arusha is homey and comfortable. We spent the afternoon resting and settling back in. Last night we had dinner with Jackie and David. It was wonderful to be reunited with both of them!
Last night I also talked to Drew from Kili. They were all preparing to take their naps before summit. He was very upbeat and said that spirits were high. They continually need prayers for good weather and health. He didn't really want to talk about the hike; he was most excited about telling me about the worshipping on the side of the mountain with over 100 people in many different languages the night before. He said that people from surrounding camps joined their worship creating awesome joint praise! Imagine the scene: 100+ people from all over the world at 15,000 ft on Kili, all exhausted from climbing, worshipping as one body as the sunsets. That is the Body of Christ!
"But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you." Psalm 5:11
"My purpose is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge." Colossians 2:1-3
Love,
Elizabeth
Arusha is homey and comfortable. We spent the afternoon resting and settling back in. Last night we had dinner with Jackie and David. It was wonderful to be reunited with both of them!
Last night I also talked to Drew from Kili. They were all preparing to take their naps before summit. He was very upbeat and said that spirits were high. They continually need prayers for good weather and health. He didn't really want to talk about the hike; he was most excited about telling me about the worshipping on the side of the mountain with over 100 people in many different languages the night before. He said that people from surrounding camps joined their worship creating awesome joint praise! Imagine the scene: 100+ people from all over the world at 15,000 ft on Kili, all exhausted from climbing, worshipping as one body as the sunsets. That is the Body of Christ!
"But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you." Psalm 5:11
"My purpose is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge." Colossians 2:1-3
Love,
Elizabeth
A bit of news from Kili
Hi everyone, I just received an email from Mark:
"Tell the blog that everyone has made it safely to the camp at 15,000 and we will be leaving here in about 11 hours for the summit! Everyone is excited and a bit nervous. I can tell by the fact that there is not much talking on the trail. Batteries are getting low, so I will make it short."
I know we are all praying for the climbers and the safari - thank you and please keep 'em coming'.
"Tell the blog that everyone has made it safely to the camp at 15,000 and we will be leaving here in about 11 hours for the summit! Everyone is excited and a bit nervous. I can tell by the fact that there is not much talking on the trail. Batteries are getting low, so I will make it short."
I know we are all praying for the climbers and the safari - thank you and please keep 'em coming'.
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Khaki Memo
Apparently we missed the memo that says that when on a safari you must wear khaki. Everyone around here is wearing head-to-toe khaki; cargo pockets and zip off pants are also very popular.
Today we completed our "Big Five" and saw a leopard. We even saw two of them; one was carrying its "kill" to the top of a tree. We also saw two male lions about 5 feet from our car. Two males together are rare. They only stay together when full grown if they are family. Yesterday we saw an entire pride of lions, include 3 females, 1 male, and 24 cubs. It was a once in a lifetime experience! We got so close to the male that he roared! Pretty sure William broke a bunch of park rules. William has been an outstanding guide. He said that what we have seen in three days is more than most see in a week! Thank you for your prayers-- the Lord has given us gift after gift on the safari.
Our lodge here on the Serengeti is just as wonderful as the one from the crater. It still is a strange juxtaposition to Legho. Last night the cooks and servers all gathered and sang and danced for the whole hotel in Swahili. While there performance was great, it wasn't a representation of the Africa I have experienced. It occurred to me that most people come here and do not have an authentic African experience. They closest they come is African-style hotel uniforms, contrived singing, and cocktail "huts." I couldn't help but be saddened by this reality. I would choose to go back to bucket showers in Legho or passing bricks while singing with YL Arusha leaders anytime over going on a safari. Most people miss the heart of this place, even if they see the "Big Five" or wear khaki.
Love,
Elizabeth
Today we completed our "Big Five" and saw a leopard. We even saw two of them; one was carrying its "kill" to the top of a tree. We also saw two male lions about 5 feet from our car. Two males together are rare. They only stay together when full grown if they are family. Yesterday we saw an entire pride of lions, include 3 females, 1 male, and 24 cubs. It was a once in a lifetime experience! We got so close to the male that he roared! Pretty sure William broke a bunch of park rules. William has been an outstanding guide. He said that what we have seen in three days is more than most see in a week! Thank you for your prayers-- the Lord has given us gift after gift on the safari.
Our lodge here on the Serengeti is just as wonderful as the one from the crater. It still is a strange juxtaposition to Legho. Last night the cooks and servers all gathered and sang and danced for the whole hotel in Swahili. While there performance was great, it wasn't a representation of the Africa I have experienced. It occurred to me that most people come here and do not have an authentic African experience. They closest they come is African-style hotel uniforms, contrived singing, and cocktail "huts." I couldn't help but be saddened by this reality. I would choose to go back to bucket showers in Legho or passing bricks while singing with YL Arusha leaders anytime over going on a safari. Most people miss the heart of this place, even if they see the "Big Five" or wear khaki.
Love,
Elizabeth
Kili day 4
Greetings from Karanga Camp.....elevation approx 13,100 feet.......all is well !! all 14 of us are in good relatively good shape....only minor issues w altitude... so far..!!.....we r in camp already for the rest for the day........
You ought to see this setting....... We are in the middle of the alpine desert, which basically looks like pictures on the moon.....Kili is towering right behind us w bright blue sky as a back drop.....the clouds are beginning to set in around us ......then you add the 100 or so tents scattered w in a 100 yard radius that looks sort of like a refugee camp.......words can not describe but it is pretty awesome!!
Tomorrow we have about a 5 hour hike in the morning.....will rest all afternoon.....have early dinner then try to sleep 4 or 5 hours.....then we shoot for the summit at around midnight our time which is 5 in the aft Thursday Atl time....so by midnight or 1 a.m. Your time we all hope to have made it....it will be a major challenge but I think the group is up for it!
James D. Shelton
You ought to see this setting....... We are in the middle of the alpine desert, which basically looks like pictures on the moon.....Kili is towering right behind us w bright blue sky as a back drop.....the clouds are beginning to set in around us ......then you add the 100 or so tents scattered w in a 100 yard radius that looks sort of like a refugee camp.......words can not describe but it is pretty awesome!!
Tomorrow we have about a 5 hour hike in the morning.....will rest all afternoon.....have early dinner then try to sleep 4 or 5 hours.....then we shoot for the summit at around midnight our time which is 5 in the aft Thursday Atl time....so by midnight or 1 a.m. Your time we all hope to have made it....it will be a major challenge but I think the group is up for it!
James D. Shelton
Kilimanjaro update
Greetings from the mountain! We are camped around 13,000 feet. Weather is nice, although I suspect it will drop to 20 or so tonight. Makes those evening toilet runs a lot of fun! Everyone is here and doing well. Yesterday was a long hike up to over 15,000 and then down to camp at about 13,000. I think the down part was harder then the morning climb. This morning was a short day, but up a pretty steep (and crowded) wall. Lots of folks on the trail- probably 300 or so including all the porters. All the kids and the old guys seem to be doing well. Of course, we have not seen a mirror in 8 days, so I am sure we just look great. Taking lots of pictures which we will share when we return. Food has been great- and plenty of it! I do not think that anyone has lost a pound since we arrived in Africa. Everyone is tired at night so worship has been short-and quiet. Again, everyone is doing well. The ocassional headache or tummy issue, but the guides have been watching everyone and making sure we get what we need. This has really been a fantastic group and a fantastic trip! We appreciate all the prayers from home. Tomorrow is a tough day as we climb to about 15,000 feet, sleep a few hours and then head up towards the summit about midnight. Will keep you posted as soon as I can. Hope the safari folks are enjoying warm showers, soft beds and seeing lots of animals!
Mark Block
Mark Block
That...I have Never Seen Before
What an unbelievable time we have had! Today we completed The Big Five on the safari! The Big Five is elephants, lions, buffalos, rhinos and leopards. Between Monday and Tuesday, we saw all except a leopard and today we saw two! The second was in a tree carrying a gazelle up for its lunch. It is truly a different world here. Our guide, William, knows the Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti like the back of his hand and he takes us to the best spots to see the animals! We have been lucky enough to have seen almost every animal in a large group. Yesterday we saw twenty-six lions on a small hill and William says that seeing one is rare! As if we weren't already blessed enough on the trip, we saw two male lions today resting under a tree. William informed us that when two males are together it means they are brothers. Every time we see rare occurances, such as the lions, William reminds us how lucky we are. I am so thankful to have him as our guide because he is a constant reminder to me of how blessed we are. Most people go on a safari for a week or so and do not see all the animals we have. We have been here for three days and have seen everything! It is a complete dream come true for me and we are all having a wonderful time. Today we saw a group of hundreds of buffalo and as we were all snapping pictures, Conley enlightened us with her vast knowledge of the animal saying, "Guys...we eat these." Referring to buffalo wings! We quickly pointed out to her that buffalos do not have wings, so don't worry Mr and Mrs Fendler! Also, Elizabeth has made the wise observation that hippos are the Serengeti's pigs and they are a mix between pigs, cows and fish. I wish all of you back home could see this because it really is amazing. I hope all is well in Atlanta (and Idaho and North Carolina) and I'm looking forward to sharing our stories with everyone!
Much Love,
Carolyn
P.S. Safari Moms-our plane is tomorrow morning at 9, I think.
Much Love,
Carolyn
P.S. Safari Moms-our plane is tomorrow morning at 9, I think.
Monday, August 3, 2009
Safari Day 1
Today was an incredible day! We left Arusha around 8 am with our guide, William, who has served YL groups before. We arrived at the Ngorongoro Crater around noon and checked into our hotel. Talk about a change from Legho; this place is awesome! The hotel in situated on the edge of the crater and has beautiful views at all angles. Our rooms are in little hut buildings on the side of the cliff with equally wonderful views. After lunch, we headed out to the floor of the crater in our topless Land Rover. We saw 4 of the "Big Five:" lion, buffalo, rhino, and elephant. Hopefully tomorrow we can complete the "Five" and see a leopard. There are only 17 rhino in the 260 square kilometers of the crater, so to see it was a great treat! It was also wonderful to see a beautiful female lion resting in the evening sun. We also saw hippos, zebras, gazelles, warthogs, and jackals. I feel like today was a dream! We truly received a great gift to be able to see all these wonderful creatures!
On another note, I talked to Drew and the Kili team is doing great!! All have made it to the second camp. Please pray big for tomorrow. They will climb in altitude a lot, so it is a big day! Pray for good health and weather!
Love,
Elizabeth
On another note, I talked to Drew and the Kili team is doing great!! All have made it to the second camp. Please pray big for tomorrow. They will climb in altitude a lot, so it is a big day! Pray for good health and weather!
Love,
Elizabeth
Prayer
Waking up this morning in Arusha was very strange. I already miss Alexis, Jackie, Leban, Papa Dao, Mama Irene, other Africa YL leaders, and the other members of our team. My day feels incomplete without being able to walk out on to the point in Legho to be still and get ready for the day.
The end of our time in Legho was wonderful! On our last night, we had an early dinner and all went out to the point for fireside worship and share time. The setting was truly unbelievable and picturesque; Kilimanjaro's silhouette visible with the sun setting beside her creating a pink reflection on the glaciers at the peak, fire blazing, and everyone together. As we worshipped, children from nearby houses gathered with us. It was a perfectly African gathering with people of all ages, races, backgrounds, and languages. Every represented group expressed gratitude and appreciation for everyone else. We took time to pray for YL in Tanzania and NW Atlanta. We prayed for all of those who have served us on the trip through driving, cooking, carrying water, and more. We prayed for family and friends at home. We also prayed for each other. Prayer is the foundation for all things in Africa. Prayer is how they start and finish everything. It has made me think a lot about our approach to life in Atlanta. Why are we not more prayerful? Is it our pride, our disbelief, our ego, our fear, or our inhibitions?
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your request to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7
Love,
Elizabeth
The end of our time in Legho was wonderful! On our last night, we had an early dinner and all went out to the point for fireside worship and share time. The setting was truly unbelievable and picturesque; Kilimanjaro's silhouette visible with the sun setting beside her creating a pink reflection on the glaciers at the peak, fire blazing, and everyone together. As we worshipped, children from nearby houses gathered with us. It was a perfectly African gathering with people of all ages, races, backgrounds, and languages. Every represented group expressed gratitude and appreciation for everyone else. We took time to pray for YL in Tanzania and NW Atlanta. We prayed for all of those who have served us on the trip through driving, cooking, carrying water, and more. We prayed for family and friends at home. We also prayed for each other. Prayer is the foundation for all things in Africa. Prayer is how they start and finish everything. It has made me think a lot about our approach to life in Atlanta. Why are we not more prayerful? Is it our pride, our disbelief, our ego, our fear, or our inhibitions?
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your request to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7
Love,
Elizabeth
Sunday, August 2, 2009
Kili Day 2
Good morning from Machame Hut camp.......we are beginning day 2 of the Kili odyssey....we went about 12 (pretty steep) miles yesterday and 4000 vertical feet thru a lush green mossy rain forest.......and are now at an elevation of about 10.3k sf.......it is about 40 degrees ( and rising)the sky is a spectacular bright blue .....we are above the clouds covering the valley below and we can see the top of Kili towering above. ..wow!!!.....all is well.....spirits are high and no one has altitude symptoms. ......today we go 7 miles and 2500 more vertical feet thru the heather zone, which is one of the transition areas from rain forest to moon scape.......the altitude and acclimitization games will begin.....supposedly cell service is hit or miss from here out so we may or may not be on the grid......hakuna matata!!
Ps Christin wants her mom and dad to know that her ankle is doing fine.!!! ...( She is a trooper!)
James D. Shelton
Ps Christin wants her mom and dad to know that her ankle is doing fine.!!! ...( She is a trooper!)
James D. Shelton
Quick Update
Today we all departed Legho to head to Kili and Arusha. All of the Safari girls are showered and ready to head to the crater in the morning. I have received an update that the whole Kili team made it to the first camp safely and are doing fine. Christin is climbing! Such an answered prayer!!
Please pray for our travels and for the climb tomorrow! I will write a longer update in the morning (night-time for you).
Love,
Elizabeth
News from the Kili climb...
Hi Everyone, I got an email from Mark and he wanted me to let you know about their first day. Here is what he said:
"We are at 10,000 feet camping on Kili. Good day, but lots of climbing. About 9 miles and climbed 4,000 feet. Phone does not work and this will likely not work tomorrow. You can tell all that everyone made it through day 1 and we are camped at 10,000 feet. Pretty cold out."
Mark also reported that Kathleen is his tent mate - hope she can survive her dad's snoring!
If I hear anything else, I will pass it on.
Don't forget the prayer meeting at Lou Bailey's house tomorrow (8/3) at 9:00 AM.
Lou's address and phone number is 125 Parc du Chateau Court; 404-256-2629.
"We are at 10,000 feet camping on Kili. Good day, but lots of climbing. About 9 miles and climbed 4,000 feet. Phone does not work and this will likely not work tomorrow. You can tell all that everyone made it through day 1 and we are camped at 10,000 feet. Pretty cold out."
Mark also reported that Kathleen is his tent mate - hope she can survive her dad's snoring!
If I hear anything else, I will pass it on.
Don't forget the prayer meeting at Lou Bailey's house tomorrow (8/3) at 9:00 AM.
Lou's address and phone number is 125 Parc du Chateau Court; 404-256-2629.
Saturday, August 1, 2009
Countdown to Kili
Woke up to another beautiful morning in Legho. Except this morning seemed a little more meloncoly than the rest, seeing as it is our last full day with our whole crew together. After a quiet breakfast, Papa Deo prayed for our day and the journeys ahead of us. After the prayer, Deo wanted us to have one more quiet time except this time instead of going out to the peak, we all walked an hour to the Legho waterfalls(except Christin, who rode in the car to the falls, because we're trying to save her for Kili). The walk was tiring but enjoyable for me as I got to know Conley and the twins a little better. Everyone on this trip by the way has been so welcoming to me and I feel as though I've been friends with everyone for years. Anyway, once we arrived at the falls we spread out to find places for our quiet time. As everybody was settling in, however, Liz settled into the river! She was alright though and Carolyn cheered her up with a few jolly ranchers. After spending over an hour of silence alone with God, we closed our quiet time by singing How Great is Our God. As we walked back, we reflected on our trip so far and joked about me being the "new kid". After getting back to Papa Deo's, we all scarfed down a delicious pasta lunch made by Mama Irene. And now we our just playing cards and napping waiting to get briefed by our Kili guide at 4. Overall our time here has been so valuable for everyone and we all have found a new appreciation for the simplicity and flexability of Africa.
Andy
Andy
Another thing
When they get home, tell your kids you were thinking of getting a pet rooster and wait for their reaction. The rooster starts crowing outside our room about 4:30 every morning!
Howdy from Africa
It is 2:00 Saturday afternoon here in Legho and the weather is wonderful. No rain yet on the trip. I am sitting out on "the ridge" behind Papa Deo's house which is truly one of the most beautiful places in the world. Just ask everyone when they get home what life on the ridge was like.
OK, first, everyone is healthy and doing just fine. All the kids are enjoying themselves, eating well and sleeping pretty well. Just a few scratches on some from yesterday's soccer (football) game. This is our last day in Legho. We depart for Kili ans safari in the morning. Today we all took a long hike to see Legho Falls. Took about an hour and a half to get there down some interesting dirt roads and paths. Beautiful place to just sit, relax and think. Liz decided to take a little plunge in the water, but she is fine. Yes, we have it all on film. The only problem with walking down to the falls meant that we had to walk UP to get back! But as we walked back, it was like a parade as all the kids ran out to see the strange white people coming by. The kids here are great. When you take their picture and then show it to them, they bust up laughing.
Yesterday we work a bit on the medical center and then went to the school and played with the kids. It was crazy! We had soccer balls flying, footballs going around, a whiffle ball and bat, and maybe the largest game of hokie pokie ever! All of your kids were great with all the local kids. You would be very proud of them. After a brief break at Deo's, we went back to the school for a little soccer match. Team YL took on some of the older local boys. When we arrived, a trench had been dug right through the field for a very important water line they are trying to run. The school headmaster promptly told the boys to fill in the trench so we could play. Only in Africa. Thanks to our African YL leaders, team YL prevailedn but those local guys are pretty darn good.
Evening ministry with Papa Deo has been wonderful and I hope all of us will take to heart his message about being merciful and less material. All the kids have participated and are getting along. Maria and Andy have really fit right in and we are blessed to have them on this trip. I know if I was their age and was asked about going to Africa with a bunch of strangers, I would have said "are you crazy?". They are brave people and hopefully enjoying the trip
Everyone is anxious for the next step of the journey. Time to go back to the house to meet with the Kili guides to make sure we do things correctly. Then time for one last bucket shower for a week! When I get back, I may just spend a few days doing nothing but taking a shower and laying in my bed!
We have no outside news here, so we hope all is going well back home. Happy anniversary to my wife- I love you. Tomorrow is Jim Shelton's birthday. We will be sure to sing for him. Keep us in your prayers as we go explore more of Africa. Your kids (and husbands) have been lots of fun to be with! See you all soon.
OK, first, everyone is healthy and doing just fine. All the kids are enjoying themselves, eating well and sleeping pretty well. Just a few scratches on some from yesterday's soccer (football) game. This is our last day in Legho. We depart for Kili ans safari in the morning. Today we all took a long hike to see Legho Falls. Took about an hour and a half to get there down some interesting dirt roads and paths. Beautiful place to just sit, relax and think. Liz decided to take a little plunge in the water, but she is fine. Yes, we have it all on film. The only problem with walking down to the falls meant that we had to walk UP to get back! But as we walked back, it was like a parade as all the kids ran out to see the strange white people coming by. The kids here are great. When you take their picture and then show it to them, they bust up laughing.
Yesterday we work a bit on the medical center and then went to the school and played with the kids. It was crazy! We had soccer balls flying, footballs going around, a whiffle ball and bat, and maybe the largest game of hokie pokie ever! All of your kids were great with all the local kids. You would be very proud of them. After a brief break at Deo's, we went back to the school for a little soccer match. Team YL took on some of the older local boys. When we arrived, a trench had been dug right through the field for a very important water line they are trying to run. The school headmaster promptly told the boys to fill in the trench so we could play. Only in Africa. Thanks to our African YL leaders, team YL prevailedn but those local guys are pretty darn good.
Evening ministry with Papa Deo has been wonderful and I hope all of us will take to heart his message about being merciful and less material. All the kids have participated and are getting along. Maria and Andy have really fit right in and we are blessed to have them on this trip. I know if I was their age and was asked about going to Africa with a bunch of strangers, I would have said "are you crazy?". They are brave people and hopefully enjoying the trip
Everyone is anxious for the next step of the journey. Time to go back to the house to meet with the Kili guides to make sure we do things correctly. Then time for one last bucket shower for a week! When I get back, I may just spend a few days doing nothing but taking a shower and laying in my bed!
We have no outside news here, so we hope all is going well back home. Happy anniversary to my wife- I love you. Tomorrow is Jim Shelton's birthday. We will be sure to sing for him. Keep us in your prayers as we go explore more of Africa. Your kids (and husbands) have been lots of fun to be with! See you all soon.
Mark
Friday, July 31, 2009
28th Anniversary!
Happy Anniversary Mark! Miss you and love you! Please give Kathleen a big hug for me. Miss her and love her too.
Our prayers are with you all!
Our prayers are with you all!
Thursday, July 30, 2009
...for they will be filled
We are now on our second full day in Legho Village. This place has an outwardly lively spirit. We arrived by bus passing women and men carrying their water on their heads up the red dirt road to their homes at the top of the mountain. There are no paved roads or paths here, only hard red clay cut outs. People live in mud shanties and some in concrete square homes. Papa Dao and his family have been so kind to invite us to sleep on the floors of their homes. There are no modern amenities here; electricity is lacking, no plumbing, not even ovens or stove tops. All the cooking is done at the back of the house over a fire! Legho Village rarely sees visitors, much less white people. On our first day here, I was playing with some local children who did not speak English. At one point I held out my hands in front of them, and one child began feeling my skin. All of the other children joined in, pinching, rubbing, and feeling my skin. They would look in wonder and awe first, then they would burst out in laughter! I was the first white person that they had touched. It was an incredible experience!
Papa Dao is someone you meet and know that he has great, wise perspective. When he speaks you listen. He has been talking to us about the Sermon on the Mount. "Blessed (happy) are those whose desire is the will of God, for they will be filled." Matthew 5:6 I have been spending time here thinking about what desires are in my heart and how they compare to God's desire for me. It is my prayer for myself and our group here that the Holy Spirit would continue to draw us nearer to God and to change our hearts to desire what God desires for us.
More to come later, once I am not typing on a black berry.
Love,
Elizabeth
Papa Dao is someone you meet and know that he has great, wise perspective. When he speaks you listen. He has been talking to us about the Sermon on the Mount. "Blessed (happy) are those whose desire is the will of God, for they will be filled." Matthew 5:6 I have been spending time here thinking about what desires are in my heart and how they compare to God's desire for me. It is my prayer for myself and our group here that the Holy Spirit would continue to draw us nearer to God and to change our hearts to desire what God desires for us.
More to come later, once I am not typing on a black berry.
Love,
Elizabeth
Greetings from Legho
All things here are pretty fantastic.....
....we r out of the city and way way in the bush...way past the middle of nowhere...... We are sleeping on a pad in basically 3 room huts w one lite on ceiling and a hole for a latrine.....w roosters, cows, and pigs outside the window......quite different from the typical Aspen or Cabo trips .....don't know about the other girls but Taylor Shelton had her first warm water bucket shower tonight ....good for her right?......all that being said not one of these kids has complained one time.......this family compound in Legho is a really special and beautiful retreat place by African standards....... b/c of this setting way up on knoll..w phenomenal views of the valley steep below and Kili in the background.......very similar to the picnic scene in Out of Africa......the only difference being the few cell towers in the distance.......remarkably simple but very special place ....take care!......hakuna matata!!
Jim Shelton
....we r out of the city and way way in the bush...way past the middle of nowhere...... We are sleeping on a pad in basically 3 room huts w one lite on ceiling and a hole for a latrine.....w roosters, cows, and pigs outside the window......quite different from the typical Aspen or Cabo trips .....don't know about the other girls but Taylor Shelton had her first warm water bucket shower tonight ....good for her right?......all that being said not one of these kids has complained one time.......this family compound in Legho is a really special and beautiful retreat place by African standards....... b/c of this setting way up on knoll..w phenomenal views of the valley steep below and Kili in the background.......very similar to the picnic scene in Out of Africa......the only difference being the few cell towers in the distance.......remarkably simple but very special place ....take care!......hakuna matata!!
Jim Shelton
Hello from the Fendlers
Hello All!
It is such a joy to turn on the computer every morning and receive current news of your visit in Tanzania! We are here in Atlanta praying that your experience in Legho Village is filled with God's love. We hope this will be the experience of a lifetime for all of you and your new African friends. Please send more pictures when you have a chance.
Conley, WE MISS YOU! Lucy and Halle have been sleeping in your bed...Lucky misses her pool time with you. Scott sends a hello from Rome this weekend. We all love you and are so proud of you for taking this opportunity to expand your horizons and give of yourself.
Blessings from Twyla and Jeff Fendler
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Greetings from Legho
Jambo from Legho Village!!! We have all arrived safely at Legho and enjoying the hospitality of Papa Deo. Everyone is doing well and is healthy. All the girls are sleeping on foam mattresses in Deo's uncle's house about 200 feet from the house where all the boys and the local YL leaders are staying. This has been an incredible day! It is about a 2 and a half hour drive to get here. About half way we heard "there is Kilimanjaro". We looked out at the horizon and did not see it. Only then did you realize you had to look up in the clouds to see the snow near the summit. Initially there was silence when people realized the size od what they were looking at, but then a "WOW". We were able to stop and take a few pictures. I would guess we were probably 50 miles from the summit and the entire horizon was covered as far as you could see with that one mountain. Just when we thought it could not get better, Alexis' phone rang and the call was to tell him that Liz' camera had been found! God just kept the hits coming today.
The dirt road to Legho is hard to describe, but bumpy and narrow is a start. When we reached the stopping point, Jim Shelton said "OK boys, what the term for 'beyond rural'?". The local kids came running and followed us up the hill (too steep for the bus) having a great time seeing the strange white faces on their mountain.
The view from the back of Deo's land is nothing short of incredible and I am sure all the kids will be raving about it. Kilimanjaro is probably 75 miles off and you can see it clearly. Never seen a view like it.
Time for lights out. All the kids did great today and are happy to be in the very tropical looking Africa. Tomorrow we play with the kids and work on the medical clinic. I understand that Saturday may be a football (soccer) match of team USA vs. Team Africa. That won't be pretty.
Everyone appreciates your thoughts and prayers. Elizabeth has been kind enough to share the emails she has received. I am sure tomorrow will be a very special day for all ther kids-and the adults. Hope all is well with everyone back home.
Mark Block
The dirt road to Legho is hard to describe, but bumpy and narrow is a start. When we reached the stopping point, Jim Shelton said "OK boys, what the term for 'beyond rural'?". The local kids came running and followed us up the hill (too steep for the bus) having a great time seeing the strange white faces on their mountain.
The view from the back of Deo's land is nothing short of incredible and I am sure all the kids will be raving about it. Kilimanjaro is probably 75 miles off and you can see it clearly. Never seen a view like it.
Time for lights out. All the kids did great today and are happy to be in the very tropical looking Africa. Tomorrow we play with the kids and work on the medical clinic. I understand that Saturday may be a football (soccer) match of team USA vs. Team Africa. That won't be pretty.
Everyone appreciates your thoughts and prayers. Elizabeth has been kind enough to share the emails she has received. I am sure tomorrow will be a very special day for all ther kids-and the adults. Hope all is well with everyone back home.
Mark Block
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Simplicity & Solitude
Friends & Family,
Much thanks to all of you at home who've been praying over our precious time here, serving with our African friends. Please say a special prayer for us this morning, as we set out to spend the next 4 days in Legho Village with Papa Deo's family, to continue working on the medical clinic NW Atlanta began working on a couple summers ago. Note that our Kilimanjaro Climb will be leaving early morning on August 2nd, & is scheduled to summit at midnight on August 6.
Thankyou for sharing in this spiritual journey with us. Know that we miss you all, & are praying for you.
Pamjoa Pamoja
in HIM,
Drew
Psalm 46:10
Much thanks to all of you at home who've been praying over our precious time here, serving with our African friends. Please say a special prayer for us this morning, as we set out to spend the next 4 days in Legho Village with Papa Deo's family, to continue working on the medical clinic NW Atlanta began working on a couple summers ago. Note that our Kilimanjaro Climb will be leaving early morning on August 2nd, & is scheduled to summit at midnight on August 6.
Thankyou for sharing in this spiritual journey with us. Know that we miss you all, & are praying for you.
Pamjoa Pamoja
in HIM,
Drew
Psalm 46:10
Harsh Reality
Yesterday was another great day of passing bricks and spending quality time with our new friends. I enjoyed hearing more about their families, friends, dreams, troubles, dating relationships, and more. While passing bricks, Martin and Fred taught me and few others songs in Swahili. We sang and sang while passing bricks, making the work a lot easier. I wish you could hear the beautiful songs. They are full are harmony and will stir your heart.
When leaving the school, I wanted to cry. I cannot imagine not seeing these wonderful people again. They welcomed me with open arms and loved me unconditionally. I would be happy to pass bricks the rest of the trip to continue to spend time with my new "family."
Yesterday afternoon was a tough for me. I began to fully understand the issues in this country and what it means for me to be here. Alexis and the YL ministry here in Arusha take a big risk in inviting us here. They risk all the relationships and progress that they have made in the the community for their ministry. All of it is so delicate and can be lost in an instant. 90% of people over the age of 18 are unemployed and poverty is rampant. People here see all Americans as rich, and by comparison, we all are. I understand the impact of money in a whole new way. Desperation can cause a whole host of problems, including corruption, greed, lying, stealing, and cheating. I am learning more about what it really means to bless these people and how I can help protect them from their own temptations to sin. I also have a new and deeper appreciation for the YL staff here.
In a week and a half we leave here and go home, back to our normal lives. It is my prayer that we will not leave Alexis, Jackie, Laban, David, and other YL staff and leaders to pick up the pieces, but instead we have helped bless them and the community. Please pray for their ministry here. Also pray that the Holy Spirit would guide us in learning how to bless these people.
Today, we leave for Legho. This is a very rural town and will be much different from Arusha. Mud floors, inconsistent electricity, bucket showers, and hole in the ground "toilets" will be staples. Please pray for us as we are about to have a worlds turned upside down!
Love,
Elizabeth
When leaving the school, I wanted to cry. I cannot imagine not seeing these wonderful people again. They welcomed me with open arms and loved me unconditionally. I would be happy to pass bricks the rest of the trip to continue to spend time with my new "family."
Yesterday afternoon was a tough for me. I began to fully understand the issues in this country and what it means for me to be here. Alexis and the YL ministry here in Arusha take a big risk in inviting us here. They risk all the relationships and progress that they have made in the the community for their ministry. All of it is so delicate and can be lost in an instant. 90% of people over the age of 18 are unemployed and poverty is rampant. People here see all Americans as rich, and by comparison, we all are. I understand the impact of money in a whole new way. Desperation can cause a whole host of problems, including corruption, greed, lying, stealing, and cheating. I am learning more about what it really means to bless these people and how I can help protect them from their own temptations to sin. I also have a new and deeper appreciation for the YL staff here.
In a week and a half we leave here and go home, back to our normal lives. It is my prayer that we will not leave Alexis, Jackie, Laban, David, and other YL staff and leaders to pick up the pieces, but instead we have helped bless them and the community. Please pray for their ministry here. Also pray that the Holy Spirit would guide us in learning how to bless these people.
Today, we leave for Legho. This is a very rural town and will be much different from Arusha. Mud floors, inconsistent electricity, bucket showers, and hole in the ground "toilets" will be staples. Please pray for us as we are about to have a worlds turned upside down!
Love,
Elizabeth
20 lb Bricks
Hi all from Africa,
Another great day yesterday. Spent it all at the school helping build the wall. Remember all those 20 lb bricks we unloaded yesterday (I figure somewhere around 1200 bricks)? Well today we got to pick up a lot of them and pass them hand to hand over a "bridge" (a couple of boards nailed to some tree branches) to the workers on the wall. Yet again teachers and the head mistress came out and help pass the bricks. Amazing how dedicated they are to this project. All the kids are healthy and doing well. Tomorrow onto Legho and a bit more "rustic" setting. Understand the girls will be sleeping on the floor of our host's home and the guys are in tents outside. Tomorrow morning is the last real shower for at least 3 days and for the Kili climbers the last one until next Sunday. Won't we smell nice? Food has been great. Tonight we ate at Alexis' house- a real treat. Not sure what the connections will be like in Legho, but will try our best to keep you posted. I think we will all sleep great tonight (last night) and hope we never see another brick for a long time. As always, thanks for keeping us in your prayers. The adventure really gets interesting tomorrow.
Mark
**Sent via email and posted by Elizabeth.
Another great day yesterday. Spent it all at the school helping build the wall. Remember all those 20 lb bricks we unloaded yesterday (I figure somewhere around 1200 bricks)? Well today we got to pick up a lot of them and pass them hand to hand over a "bridge" (a couple of boards nailed to some tree branches) to the workers on the wall. Yet again teachers and the head mistress came out and help pass the bricks. Amazing how dedicated they are to this project. All the kids are healthy and doing well. Tomorrow onto Legho and a bit more "rustic" setting. Understand the girls will be sleeping on the floor of our host's home and the guys are in tents outside. Tomorrow morning is the last real shower for at least 3 days and for the Kili climbers the last one until next Sunday. Won't we smell nice? Food has been great. Tonight we ate at Alexis' house- a real treat. Not sure what the connections will be like in Legho, but will try our best to keep you posted. I think we will all sleep great tonight (last night) and hope we never see another brick for a long time. As always, thanks for keeping us in your prayers. The adventure really gets interesting tomorrow.
Mark
**Sent via email and posted by Elizabeth.
Eye Candy
The YL Staff loading our bags at the airport.
Parker at the orphanage with everyone playing soccer in the background.
Elizabeth at the orphanage.
What a sweet face!
Stephen and Mack mixing cement.
Carolyn and Andy passing rocks.
Liz and Carolyn highfiving school kids.
Group picture with school children.
Taylor, Kathleen, Parker, and Jessica (or Julia).
Crip...Really?
Well friends, I'm shocked to be sitting here with ice on my foot, the team gone at the worksite, replaying the soccer dance from yesterday (past Africa tripees...you know what I'm talking about), begging God that I would get to partake in the rest of our trip, and perhaps still climb 19,540 feet next Sunday. There's hope that all will be "normal" tomorrow and that healing will come over me like a wave of His ocean. Or in the words of Dr. Bob [Voyles], amputation is always an option (just kidding mom and dad:)).
Last night as I laid in bed, foot propped, and IPOD in my ears, I thought about the events of the day and just how much I believe in the work of our Heavenly Father. I was BLOWN AWAY by the sheer selflessness of this group whether it was submission to the African way, everybody working HARD despite the pain, dads and new friends carrying me up and down stairs, and everyone asking the construction team "how can I help" when it would be much easier to sit and watch. During worship last night, kids and parents talked about the ways they had seen Jesus during the day... in the servant hearts of our YL counterparts, in the love for each other, in the outreach and kindness of school kids, in passersby who reached out a hand to help. To hear those things was like music to my ears. As a young life leader, and I'm sure as a parent, it's exactly what you want to hear. That your children "get it." That your friends "get it." That it's not about us. It's about the work of our Heavenly Father working in us to do something through us. Life is about submitting to the will of God...even when it hurts, when it's hard, and when it doesn't make sense.
And that's why I'm going to be content no matter what happens with "the foot." God is at work on this trip... in the heart of this team and in my own. And so if that means I have to sit out the climb this year because that's His will, I will do just that. I know He is good and His plans are perfect.
Thank you, thank you for all of the prayers...
Christin
a.k.a. the crip
Last night as I laid in bed, foot propped, and IPOD in my ears, I thought about the events of the day and just how much I believe in the work of our Heavenly Father. I was BLOWN AWAY by the sheer selflessness of this group whether it was submission to the African way, everybody working HARD despite the pain, dads and new friends carrying me up and down stairs, and everyone asking the construction team "how can I help" when it would be much easier to sit and watch. During worship last night, kids and parents talked about the ways they had seen Jesus during the day... in the servant hearts of our YL counterparts, in the love for each other, in the outreach and kindness of school kids, in passersby who reached out a hand to help. To hear those things was like music to my ears. As a young life leader, and I'm sure as a parent, it's exactly what you want to hear. That your children "get it." That your friends "get it." That it's not about us. It's about the work of our Heavenly Father working in us to do something through us. Life is about submitting to the will of God...even when it hurts, when it's hard, and when it doesn't make sense.
And that's why I'm going to be content no matter what happens with "the foot." God is at work on this trip... in the heart of this team and in my own. And so if that means I have to sit out the climb this year because that's His will, I will do just that. I know He is good and His plans are perfect.
Thank you, thank you for all of the prayers...
Christin
a.k.a. the crip
Monday, July 27, 2009
They're not kids anymore
I'm one of the "parents" on the trip.
Today we worked at the school, building a concrete wall. But let me back-up a few days.
Despite being on a plane for 27+ hours and being tired, we were in good spirits and excited. The greeting we received at the airport by the Young Life leaders and students was as warm and genuine as any greeting I have ever received. The visit to the orphanage was eye-opening for me and I think everyone else as well. Africa is a very different place, far outside my comfort zone. The poverty and need is obvious. It makes the extravagance of our society very apparent.
As a parent, I must report that your children and loved ones are very safe and sound. Your prayers are being answered. As I have worked and talked to the "the kids," I have come to realize that they are not "kids" anymore. That may make you sad, but you should be very proud. I cannot emphasize that enough. I am surrounded by a great group of "young adults." They have grown up to be good Christians and good citizens. I did not hear one real complaint in 27+ hours of travel. At the church and at the orphanage, they were comfortable and immediately engaged and showed genuine love and compassion. They truly care about others in this world. At the school today, everyone worked their butts off, particularly Stephen, Mack, Charlie and Andy. Every young adult on this trip is a very spcial person. I continue to be impressed by their maturity, compassion, and faith. Drew and Alexis are great leaders who have organized a special experience for us. Each day, we are surprised with blessings and see the Lord at work. Please keep praying for us. Each day we experience challenges, but so far all have been handled in a positive way.
love, henry "dad" walker
Today we worked at the school, building a concrete wall. But let me back-up a few days.
Despite being on a plane for 27+ hours and being tired, we were in good spirits and excited. The greeting we received at the airport by the Young Life leaders and students was as warm and genuine as any greeting I have ever received. The visit to the orphanage was eye-opening for me and I think everyone else as well. Africa is a very different place, far outside my comfort zone. The poverty and need is obvious. It makes the extravagance of our society very apparent.
As a parent, I must report that your children and loved ones are very safe and sound. Your prayers are being answered. As I have worked and talked to the "the kids," I have come to realize that they are not "kids" anymore. That may make you sad, but you should be very proud. I cannot emphasize that enough. I am surrounded by a great group of "young adults." They have grown up to be good Christians and good citizens. I did not hear one real complaint in 27+ hours of travel. At the church and at the orphanage, they were comfortable and immediately engaged and showed genuine love and compassion. They truly care about others in this world. At the school today, everyone worked their butts off, particularly Stephen, Mack, Charlie and Andy. Every young adult on this trip is a very spcial person. I continue to be impressed by their maturity, compassion, and faith. Drew and Alexis are great leaders who have organized a special experience for us. Each day, we are surprised with blessings and see the Lord at work. Please keep praying for us. Each day we experience challenges, but so far all have been handled in a positive way.
love, henry "dad" walker
Loving Community
Today was a fantastic day of service! It really gave me a glimpse into the heart of Africa and an understanding of why my friends, like Drew and Heath, are in love with this country. We were first greeted by the Head Mistress who gave us an introduction to the school and a brief history. The Head Mistress told us that the school was built the year before Tanzania was liberated, I forgot the exact year, but it was in the 60's. The school has received few updates since that time. She thanked God many times for sending us to help build the wall that will protect the students. She mentioned the struggles that are created by the out dated facilities, but did not dwell on them at all. There are over 1,500 students that attend this secondary school, making it the largest school in Arusha. It is missing modern staples that we are accustomed to, such as windows, toilet bowls, and lighting. When walking around, I could not help but think of the high schools my friends and I attended and how they compare. Can you image what the students at this school would say when seeing Lovett, Pace, Westminster, or Woodward?
We had an opportunity to walk around the campus during breaks from work. During one break, Kathleen and I were walking to the bathroom through the campus and almost every student greeted us. Kathleen noted that in Atlanta, if people looking so different walked through a school, the students would most likely glare at the visitor and mark them as an intruder.
We worked hard building the wall, but the highlight of the day for me was sitting and talking to the students and YL leaders. We are instantly family. I feel like that sounds trite, but really, these people are so warm and welcoming. We sit close with arms around each other and listen to one another. We laugh together, teach each other, and sometimes say nothing. How better could we glorify and please the Lord? As Drew mentioned today during share time, we are called to first love each other as said in John 15. Today I had a glimpse of what the Kingdom of God is like.
Another special moment for me was when a stranger, who did not even know the Africans, saw us working and joined in to help. He was dressed in a suit and dress shoes; he was not wearing "play clothes." He didn't care. He joined in are assembly line of passing the cement blocks. He laughed and worked with us. Imagine if after work, you had to walk home. You are wearing your work gear from J. Crew or Brooks Brothers. On your way home you see a bunch of people (of a different race) passing cement blocks. Would you stop and help? This community gives and loves in a way that I have never experienced.
As we finished up our work, students in a near by classroom began to sing the most beautiful song in Swahilli. It sounded exactly how you imagine African music to sound, but was live and sung by young teenagers. My new family and I danced to the song and laughed. As we walked to the bus, the children continued to sing. I asked what they were singing about. They were singing a worship song describing God as the powerful, loving provider. It was the perfect end to the day!
Love,
Elizabeth
P.S.--Christin's ankle is doing okay. There is some swelling, and she is in pain. Parker happened to pack an ankle brace by the grace of God. Please continue to pray for healing!
We had an opportunity to walk around the campus during breaks from work. During one break, Kathleen and I were walking to the bathroom through the campus and almost every student greeted us. Kathleen noted that in Atlanta, if people looking so different walked through a school, the students would most likely glare at the visitor and mark them as an intruder.
We worked hard building the wall, but the highlight of the day for me was sitting and talking to the students and YL leaders. We are instantly family. I feel like that sounds trite, but really, these people are so warm and welcoming. We sit close with arms around each other and listen to one another. We laugh together, teach each other, and sometimes say nothing. How better could we glorify and please the Lord? As Drew mentioned today during share time, we are called to first love each other as said in John 15. Today I had a glimpse of what the Kingdom of God is like.
Another special moment for me was when a stranger, who did not even know the Africans, saw us working and joined in to help. He was dressed in a suit and dress shoes; he was not wearing "play clothes." He didn't care. He joined in are assembly line of passing the cement blocks. He laughed and worked with us. Imagine if after work, you had to walk home. You are wearing your work gear from J. Crew or Brooks Brothers. On your way home you see a bunch of people (of a different race) passing cement blocks. Would you stop and help? This community gives and loves in a way that I have never experienced.
As we finished up our work, students in a near by classroom began to sing the most beautiful song in Swahilli. It sounded exactly how you imagine African music to sound, but was live and sung by young teenagers. My new family and I danced to the song and laughed. As we walked to the bus, the children continued to sing. I asked what they were singing about. They were singing a worship song describing God as the powerful, loving provider. It was the perfect end to the day!
Love,
Elizabeth
P.S.--Christin's ankle is doing okay. There is some swelling, and she is in pain. Parker happened to pack an ankle brace by the grace of God. Please continue to pray for healing!
JAMBO MAMBOOOOO
Today was definitely a tought day! Like Mr. Block mentioned we spent most of the day doing some tough manual labor...not really our thing! But to our delight the boys decided to take over after lunch. After all, Mack says that "manual labor is his thing." While the guys were hard at work the rest of the group had a great time chatting with some of the students at the Arusha secondary school. One of the kids asked for almost all of the girls e-mails, so hopefully we will continue to get to know them! Most of the student were our age and we found out that we actually had a lot in common. For instance, we met a pair of twin boys that we made sure to take a picture with! (AWKWARD... you will know what we mean when you see the picture!) Overall, it turned out to be a fabulous day! All of us had a great time, worked hard (VERY hard!) and also learned a lot from our new friends. We can't wait to see them again tomorrow and continue to learn more about Tanzania!
Jessica and Julia Bailey
SHOUTOUTS:
Hi mom and dad! We love you! -Jessica and Julia
Hi mom and dad! I love you! -Conley Fendler
Jessica and Julia Bailey
SHOUTOUTS:
Hi mom and dad! We love you! -Jessica and Julia
Hi mom and dad! I love you! -Conley Fendler
Today we helped build a brick wall around a school in Arussa. Needless to say, it was hard and dirty work, but I have to say that you would not have recognized your kids today! We (they) unloaded two trucks full of bricks that each weighed 20-25 lbs each. We had a line of bodies passing those bricks from the truck to the pile and everyone was up to their ears in dirt and dust. If any of the girls say something is too heavy for them, they are wrong- and I have the pictures to prove it. We also moved a pile or rocks, picked up trash andn everyone's favorite, mixed concrete! The boys and girls alike joined in that fun (yeah, and the old guys).
You would be very proud of what your kids did today. They also got to spend some time talking to the boys from the school. I think some of the loxal boys have fallen for your daughters- watch out!
Everyone is fine. Tonight, if we have the energy, they will decorate a brick to put in the wall. That's right, tomorrow we mix cement and lay bricks on the wall!
We miss you all. Thanks for keeping us in your prayers.
-Mark Block
You would be very proud of what your kids did today. They also got to spend some time talking to the boys from the school. I think some of the loxal boys have fallen for your daughters- watch out!
Everyone is fine. Tonight, if we have the energy, they will decorate a brick to put in the wall. That's right, tomorrow we mix cement and lay bricks on the wall!
We miss you all. Thanks for keeping us in your prayers.
-Mark Block
Please pray for Christin!
Friends,
Please pray for Christin! Some of you may not beleive it, but she fell today while dancing with a student and hurt her ankle.
More to come later about our day, but please pray for Christin for now.
Wasalaam wako (sincerely with love),
Elizabeth
Please pray for Christin! Some of you may not beleive it, but she fell today while dancing with a student and hurt her ankle.
More to come later about our day, but please pray for Christin for now.
Wasalaam wako (sincerely with love),
Elizabeth
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Here, Safe, and Happy
Wow, already, I feel like I could type for hours about the experiences we have had on this journey! Airport after airport, smooth landings, bumpy landings, new friends, African pizza, pleasure of being in Africa, disbelief of being in Africa, homesickness, finding family in friends, seeing old friends, seeing Jesus in strangers, and so much more. We have had a wonderful time here so far.
The first moment I knew that this trip was going to be outstanding was, surpisingly, in the Atlanta airport. Checking bags in was a bit chaotic, and it didnt seem like the woman at the ticket counter was very flexible. Nineteen people, each with at least 2 duffle bags that needed to stay under 50 lbs can be a lot to handle at 4:30 am. We finally were towards the end of checking in and we had an extra bag full of deflated soccer balls. One soccer ball in Africa could easily draw over 100 kids to play a game. The lady at the ticket counter told Christin that it would cost $300 to bring the bag of soccer balls. When Christin's face dropped, the woman quickly told Christin and Henry to pack the balls in the bags that had already been weighed. She did not re-weigh them; she knew that they would be over weight. The woman who had earlier been so unfriendly, had decided to help us. She even came to see us off at our gate! The Lord provided at that moment and has been throughout the trip.
When landing in Ethiopia, we realized that we would have about 20 minutes to make our connecting flight. I was sitting with Kathleen and as we were landing, I grabbed her hand and prayed outloud, asking God to help us make our next flight. Right as I was taking a breath to continue to pray, our plane hit the runway causing everything to shake. Then the plane began swirving all around. At that moment, the Lord really put things in perspective. He was saying to Kathleen and me, "One thing at a time!" The landing was rough and scary for a moment, especially made scary by the lack of sleep and Ambein, but the Lord reminded me that everything will happen on His time.
Once we finally made it to Tanzania and through customs, we stepped out to be greeted by the African Young Life staff and leaders. They all greeted us with open arms and smiling faces. It was possibly the best greeting I have ever received. Kathleen, who was on this trip last year, was already holding hands with an African friend she had not seen in over a year. Our new friends would not let us carry the bags. They were insistant upon serving us--what a gift!
We drove into town, ate African pizza for a late lunch, and then went to our hotel. We had another warm greeting by the staff here. It is much, much nicer than I expected. We all settled into our rooms, showered, and gathered later for dinner. After dinner we worshipped and had share-time. During share-time, I was most struck by Mark sharing his high and low. Mark shared that his low was leaving his wife and oldest daughter in Atlanta. He teared up, sharing that he missed them and was worried about them traveling while he was so far away. His high, though, was that he was in Africa with his youngest daughter, Kathleen, and was about to have a great adventure with her. I was so moved by his ablity to, even as one of the patriarchs of the group, be so vulnerable and real in the beginning.
Today, we were so blessed to go to church with Alexis and other YL leaders. We sang a lot in the worship service, which I love. It was really wonderful to see that the God I worship in Atlanta, is being worshiped here too. There were familiar things about the service and some unfamiliar tranditions. It seemed multi-denominational. The community and fellowship of the church was visible. Bob Voyles talked about how the church was full of people from all over the world--black Africans, white Africans, British, Asians, American Southerners (us), Yankees, and Australians. Bob noted that the Kingdom of Heaven is also that diverse. It was truly wonderful being welcomed into that church body.
After church, we ate African pizza again for lunch. We might be getting a little spoiled with this pizza; Legho's food could be a big shock. After pizza and cokes, whe headed to an orphanage outside of Arusha. Being at the orphanage was when I began to know fully that I was completely blessed to be born in Atlanta by loving parents into a community that is one of excessive plenty.
Watching our group instantly bond with kids that they couldn't even speak to was awesome. Charlie Lowe instantly bonded with one boy and held his hand throughout our introduction and tour. A soccer game began quickly. Taylor, Mack, and Henry all were huge hits with the kids. Another group did the hokey-pokey, played duck, duck goose, and red light-green light with a group of kids. At one point I stepped back to the side and watched the scene and was so blown away by the whole group. At the end of our time, Mack gave his jersey to a child that he had been playing soccer with. The joy that Mack gave to the boy was so special. Such a small gesture was so huge to that one child. The Holy Spirit was certainly present in the children, in our team, and in that place.
Well, I clearly got carried away on this post as I have been working on it for 45 minutes. I just have so much I want to share with everyone at home. Please continue to pray for us. We are all in good health and our spirits are high. Tomorrow we will begin working at a school building a wall for the children's protection.
Love,
Elizabeth
The first moment I knew that this trip was going to be outstanding was, surpisingly, in the Atlanta airport. Checking bags in was a bit chaotic, and it didnt seem like the woman at the ticket counter was very flexible. Nineteen people, each with at least 2 duffle bags that needed to stay under 50 lbs can be a lot to handle at 4:30 am. We finally were towards the end of checking in and we had an extra bag full of deflated soccer balls. One soccer ball in Africa could easily draw over 100 kids to play a game. The lady at the ticket counter told Christin that it would cost $300 to bring the bag of soccer balls. When Christin's face dropped, the woman quickly told Christin and Henry to pack the balls in the bags that had already been weighed. She did not re-weigh them; she knew that they would be over weight. The woman who had earlier been so unfriendly, had decided to help us. She even came to see us off at our gate! The Lord provided at that moment and has been throughout the trip.
When landing in Ethiopia, we realized that we would have about 20 minutes to make our connecting flight. I was sitting with Kathleen and as we were landing, I grabbed her hand and prayed outloud, asking God to help us make our next flight. Right as I was taking a breath to continue to pray, our plane hit the runway causing everything to shake. Then the plane began swirving all around. At that moment, the Lord really put things in perspective. He was saying to Kathleen and me, "One thing at a time!" The landing was rough and scary for a moment, especially made scary by the lack of sleep and Ambein, but the Lord reminded me that everything will happen on His time.
Once we finally made it to Tanzania and through customs, we stepped out to be greeted by the African Young Life staff and leaders. They all greeted us with open arms and smiling faces. It was possibly the best greeting I have ever received. Kathleen, who was on this trip last year, was already holding hands with an African friend she had not seen in over a year. Our new friends would not let us carry the bags. They were insistant upon serving us--what a gift!
We drove into town, ate African pizza for a late lunch, and then went to our hotel. We had another warm greeting by the staff here. It is much, much nicer than I expected. We all settled into our rooms, showered, and gathered later for dinner. After dinner we worshipped and had share-time. During share-time, I was most struck by Mark sharing his high and low. Mark shared that his low was leaving his wife and oldest daughter in Atlanta. He teared up, sharing that he missed them and was worried about them traveling while he was so far away. His high, though, was that he was in Africa with his youngest daughter, Kathleen, and was about to have a great adventure with her. I was so moved by his ablity to, even as one of the patriarchs of the group, be so vulnerable and real in the beginning.
Today, we were so blessed to go to church with Alexis and other YL leaders. We sang a lot in the worship service, which I love. It was really wonderful to see that the God I worship in Atlanta, is being worshiped here too. There were familiar things about the service and some unfamiliar tranditions. It seemed multi-denominational. The community and fellowship of the church was visible. Bob Voyles talked about how the church was full of people from all over the world--black Africans, white Africans, British, Asians, American Southerners (us), Yankees, and Australians. Bob noted that the Kingdom of Heaven is also that diverse. It was truly wonderful being welcomed into that church body.
After church, we ate African pizza again for lunch. We might be getting a little spoiled with this pizza; Legho's food could be a big shock. After pizza and cokes, whe headed to an orphanage outside of Arusha. Being at the orphanage was when I began to know fully that I was completely blessed to be born in Atlanta by loving parents into a community that is one of excessive plenty.
Watching our group instantly bond with kids that they couldn't even speak to was awesome. Charlie Lowe instantly bonded with one boy and held his hand throughout our introduction and tour. A soccer game began quickly. Taylor, Mack, and Henry all were huge hits with the kids. Another group did the hokey-pokey, played duck, duck goose, and red light-green light with a group of kids. At one point I stepped back to the side and watched the scene and was so blown away by the whole group. At the end of our time, Mack gave his jersey to a child that he had been playing soccer with. The joy that Mack gave to the boy was so special. Such a small gesture was so huge to that one child. The Holy Spirit was certainly present in the children, in our team, and in that place.
Well, I clearly got carried away on this post as I have been working on it for 45 minutes. I just have so much I want to share with everyone at home. Please continue to pray for us. We are all in good health and our spirits are high. Tomorrow we will begin working at a school building a wall for the children's protection.
Love,
Elizabeth
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Prayer Meetings
Below is a list of prayer meetings for out team while we are on the trip. Feel free to come!
Wednesday, July 22nd , 9:00 AM at the Block’s house
4615 Angelo Drive; 404-233-1347
Monday, July 27th, 9:00 AM at the Fendler’s house
840 Powers Lake Drive; 404-843-9830
Monday, August 3rd, 9:00 AM at the Bailey’s house
125 Parc du Chateau Court; 404-256-2629
The meetings will last about 30 minutes and we will have coffee!
Monday, July 13, 2009
Welcome to the Beyond ATL - Tanzania 2009 trip blog!
Thank you for stopping by. It is our hope that you will have a glimpse into life in Africa through this blog. We will be posting stories, pictures, and prayer requests here during our time away. We leave July 24th bright and early at 6:00 am, so please keep our team in your prayers!
Feel free to share this blog with others - the more the merrier!
Please contact Elizabeth Gray with questions or concerns at elizabeth.w.gray@gmail.com.
Friday, July 3, 2009
YLX AFRICA UPDATE
Dear Friends,
CBS 19 News (Click Link) in Texas, recently did a short piece recently on our Kilimanjaro Fundraiser Climb that I wanted to pass on to you. Our Climb begins this morning, actually in less than an hour, & will end when we come down on July 10. Please keep us in your prayers. *Kilimanjaro Trip Blog (Click Link)
Thanks Everyone! in HIM, Drew Drew Voyles YLX Africa Coordinator cell: 770.851.2949 email: ylexpeditions.africa@gmail.com
*SEE UPDATE below on recent YLX TANZANIA TRIP : June 14 to 26
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Dyan Larmey <dyan@ylafrica.com>
Date: Tue, Jun 23, 2009 at 1:25 AM
Subject: Prayer Coverage: Alexis & Jacqui
To: Young Life Africa Partners <dyan@ylafrica.com>
Dear Praying Friends,
We are praising God for how He moved during Alexis' camp last week. Martin (Nairobi) spoke, Mugai and Richard (both from Nairobi) did program, Wonde (Ethiopia) and Benga (DRC) did music. What a TEAM! The NW Atlanta team did work crew wholeheartedly! (Drew's groups have the reputation of being the most organized and the most willing to serve and serve some more! Must be the great leadership!)
There were 174 kids at camp, all between the ages of 14-19 years old. 89 of those kids began a relationship with Jesus Christ. To God be the Glory!
As I type this, Steve is gathering together the 23 Trainees from all over Africa for morning worship.
They were up early, with Bibles opened listening to the Lord.
Last night tears flowed as many expressed their gratitude for being here, for belonging, for being involved with a mission that believes in young people.
Blessings,
<><dyan larmey
CBS 19 News (Click Link) in Texas, recently did a short piece recently on our Kilimanjaro Fundraiser Climb that I wanted to pass on to you. Our Climb begins this morning, actually in less than an hour, & will end when we come down on July 10. Please keep us in your prayers. *Kilimanjaro Trip Blog (Click Link)
Thanks Everyone! in HIM, Drew Drew Voyles YLX Africa Coordinator cell: 770.851.2949 email: ylexpeditions.africa@gmail.com
*SEE UPDATE below on recent YLX TANZANIA TRIP : June 14 to 26
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Dyan Larmey <dyan@ylafrica.com>
Date: Tue, Jun 23, 2009 at 1:25 AM
Subject: Prayer Coverage: Alexis & Jacqui
To: Young Life Africa Partners <dyan@ylafrica.com>
Dear Praying Friends,
We are praising God for how He moved during Alexis' camp last week. Martin (Nairobi) spoke, Mugai and Richard (both from Nairobi) did program, Wonde (Ethiopia) and Benga (DRC) did music. What a TEAM! The NW Atlanta team did work crew wholeheartedly! (Drew's groups have the reputation of being the most organized and the most willing to serve and serve some more! Must be the great leadership!)
There were 174 kids at camp, all between the ages of 14-19 years old. 89 of those kids began a relationship with Jesus Christ. To God be the Glory!
As I type this, Steve is gathering together the 23 Trainees from all over Africa for morning worship.
They were up early, with Bibles opened listening to the Lord.
Last night tears flowed as many expressed their gratitude for being here, for belonging, for being involved with a mission that believes in young people.
Blessings,
<><dyan larmey
Thursday, June 11, 2009
YLX AFRICA UPDATE - Summer 2009 & New Video Promo
Friends of Africa,
If your Mailing Address has changed over the past 12 months, please shoot back with your new Address, so we can be sure you receive a copy of our upcoming annual Newsletter going out in the next couple weeks, announcing a series of significant developments that we've been blessed to see unfold over the past 6 months, as we move into summer.
Sunday evening, I leave for Tanzania with the first of 15 Trips we're sending to go serve in Africa this summer, & don't return home again until the end of the final Trip, the first we've ever sent to Liberia, on August 26. Those of you in ATLANTA, if you want to send a letter, or small gift to give either Alexis & Jacque, Papa Deo, or Mama Irene in Tanzania, Simon in Uganda, or even Patson in Zimbabwe, I'd be more than happy to deliver it for you. Just shoot me a quick email, & plan to drop it off either at our Office or at my house, before our group leaves on Sunday night.
Each of you remains a huge part of what's happening here. Thank you for choosing to join us & be a part of it.
in HIM,
Drew
YLX Africa Marketing Video (SEE BELOW)
"Beyond Atlanta Into Africa" 2008 Trip Video (Click Link) : Type Password: "voyles"
Drew Voyles
YLX Africa Coordinator
cell: 770.851.2949
email: ylexpeditions.africa@gmail.com
"To become neighbors is to Bridge the Gap
between people. As long as there is distance
between us we cannot look into one
another's eyes. We forget that they love as we
love, care for their children as we care for
ours, become sick and die as we do. We
forget they are our Brothers and Sisters."
-HENRI NOUWEN
If your Mailing Address has changed over the past 12 months, please shoot back with your new Address, so we can be sure you receive a copy of our upcoming annual Newsletter going out in the next couple weeks, announcing a series of significant developments that we've been blessed to see unfold over the past 6 months, as we move into summer.
Sunday evening, I leave for Tanzania with the first of 15 Trips we're sending to go serve in Africa this summer, & don't return home again until the end of the final Trip, the first we've ever sent to Liberia, on August 26. Those of you in ATLANTA, if you want to send a letter, or small gift to give either Alexis & Jacque, Papa Deo, or Mama Irene in Tanzania, Simon in Uganda, or even Patson in Zimbabwe, I'd be more than happy to deliver it for you. Just shoot me a quick email, & plan to drop it off either at our Office or at my house, before our group leaves on Sunday night.
Each of you remains a huge part of what's happening here. Thank you for choosing to join us & be a part of it.
in HIM,
Drew
YLX Africa Marketing Video (SEE BELOW)
"Beyond Atlanta Into Africa" 2008 Trip Video (Click Link) : Type Password: "voyles"
Drew Voyles
YLX Africa Coordinator
cell: 770.851.2949
email: ylexpeditions.africa@gmail.com
"To become neighbors is to Bridge the Gap
between people. As long as there is distance
between us we cannot look into one
another's eyes. We forget that they love as we
love, care for their children as we care for
ours, become sick and die as we do. We
forget they are our Brothers and Sisters."
-HENRI NOUWEN
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