JUNE 2021

During the half term break we invited the teachers from Cornerstone to our house for a BBQ. We had a great time with plenty of food and laughter. It was a lovely afternoon and went a long way in helping us to build relationships. We know that it is local, Kenyan teachers who will make a lasting impact in this community. We can all remember a teacher who we loved and who made a difference in our lives. It is our hope and prayer that as we invest in these teachers there will be benefits that last for years to come and that the trajectory for hundreds of children in this community will be changed. We pray that children who are written off by society will be educated, equipped and empowered to change not just this community but this nation.

At home the boys are both doing well. Jonah has only got a couple of weeks left in 1st Grade. He has been in a different school every year; in Reception he was at a school in Greenwich, in Year 1 we moved house and he went to school in Plumstead and for Year 2, he found himself in 1st Grade at a school in Kenya that follows the American system. He has done really well despite all the change and COVID restrictions and we are really proud of him. Similarly, Caleb was in Reception before we left but as the American system is a year behind, he has found himself back in pre-school and is getting ready to join Kindergarten at the start of the new school year. When the boys finish for the summer we had planned to head to the UK but with Kenya still on the 'Red List' we are now in the unfortunate position of not being able to do so. We are equally frustrated and disappointed about that. However, we are trying to turn lemons into lemonade and have planned a trip to the States instead. Honestly, we have reached our limit and need a break. Everyone says that the first year is the hardest and we are certainly feeling that more recently so are looking forward to having the chance to rest. We're excited about the prospect of connecting with a few of families that partner with us and support the ministry. Of course, there are a number of things we are looking forward to (Mcdonalds!) including not having to listen to the constant hum of the generator. We have had number of power cuts recently, some of which have lasted for more that 24 hours. Fortunately, we are connected to a generator but we are definitely looking forward to a break from the noise it makes!

As the end of term draws to a close it feels like a good time to reflect on the past 8 months. Yes, there are have been challenges and frustrations, some big and significant. Most though are micro, 1000 little ones each day. There have also been plenty of highs. Someone told us that when living and working in this context, the lows will be lower but the highs will be higher. That has certainly been our experience so far. Thank you for being on this journey with us.