So our house here is really pretty neat. I will upload more pictures this week but the first level is kitchen and dining area/living area, the second floor is kids bedroom/bathrooms and third level is our room and this really great rooftop area. The first picture is from the roof. We can never see a sunset from the roof because of the dust in the air, it is generally hazy looking, but soon I am heading to the beach just in time for a sunset. There’s a soccer field that is usually pretty busy behind us and we can see the main road as well. We are surrounded by roosters, goats, and wild howling dogs so it’s been quite an adjustment learning to sleep with the noise. Each time that I find myself about to complain about the noise, I am reminded that there is a group of tents across the street with families that do not have running water, air conditioning, bathrooms, clean clothes, or a bathtub or shower. I can see them from the roof. I have talked to God many a times since we arrived wondering why I get to live in this big air conditioned house and they live in the tent. He hasn’t given me a clear answer and I may never know on this side of heaven why certain things happen. I am absolutely sure though that He knows better than me. I am praying for God to show me how I can serve others while I am here. I pray I never miss an opportunity to help those God has put in my path, and I pray that one day I can help the people I see across the street in a tangible way.
One of my favorite things so far has been getting to know the guards who watch over our house. They are so kind and helpful and one in particular works with me on my french each week. He is very gracious and smiles even when I know I have completely messed up the whole sentence. They are always happy to try out my new recipes (a few were a bit overcooked as I was learning how to use the oven!) We have had many people in and out of the house, working on plumbing issues and different things that need fixing and I am always overwhelmed at how happy they are to help. Everyone who has walked in our door has smiled and thanked me for having them in my home (and they are coming in my home to help me!). Carter and Ella are so fun to watch as they say Bonjour ca va (Good morning how are you?) to everyone they meet. They are so proud when the person talks back to them in french. Carter has spent extra time with the marines since we arrived. I think the day he was in on one of the drills was a highlight. The kids teachers at summer camp had an Africa day before the muslim holiday last week and they brought Carter a traditional African boy outfit and braided Ella’s hair. She insisted on wearing her most special cheetah outfit as well!
We have had hard days of being overwhelmed and tired and just plain missing our friends and family, but each time I cook something new or find something out in town that I can work with I am reminded that some people have lived here their whole life. We have met some great people so far, both locals and Americans. We met the director of the kids school and her husband. They came for lunch today and as we sat around the table holding hands thanking God for the meal, I was reminded that He will always send me people to fellowship with. I was reminded of all of the people who have opened their homes to us throughout the years for holidays when we couldn’t go home, or just to get to know one another and I am thankful.
