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Wednesday, December 31, 2008

New Pictures

First a picture of Bakary - the latest addition to the family. He's been with us for two weeks now and is doing really well. Sekouba is helping him get washed and dressed, and is doing a good job.

We also thank CCARA, a German NGO, for sending us money to buy 22 bags of rice to be distributed to widows and needy families. The first widow received her rice today.

Construction has been progressing VERY slowly over the past few months. These past few days they have been working on plastering the walls and ceiling. We still need $12,200 to finish the building.

Celebrating New Year's Eve

Nothing was planned really, but I had enough energy and was looking forward to a few special hours of closing the old year and starting the new, together with ALL my kids, young and old, street kids and resident kids.

We set everything up before the sun went down - screen, sound system, projector. Then I left to pick up the kids at the bus station, as every night. Our driver Jean is on vacation right now, and Saloum refuses to drive, so it's up to me. When I look back, it's somewhat sad that I have sent 4 people to driving school, paying everything, and none of them is here to drive.

Once back, I gave them their ID cards, and then we started praising God. The kids were dancing so much that the dust was everywhere - that's what you see on the picture.

Paul and Souleymane were leading with themics, but Souleymane really didn't want to do it. His attitude was horrible. Honestly, the street kids honor and worship God better than the kids that have been longest with me. What's wrong with that picture?

Then I hooked up my computer to show the pictures of 2008. First we showed them the Mozambique pictures, as we hadn't done that yet. Everybody enjoyed it.

Then I did the first drawing - for the remaining sodas. Everyone was happy, as most kids got one.

Then I continued with the pictures of 2008, starting with Jan 1st. There were close to 3000 of them!!! Abdias is our photographer pretty often, and he tends to take too many pictures. So needless to say, it was taking time, and going really slowly. The kids liked the pictures best that showed them, and the street kids loved it when there were pictures of them as we reached the fall months. There were also little video clips.

As the evening progressed, some kids went to bed as they were tired, including some of my kids. When I asked for Souleymane and Sekouba, I was told they had gone to bed. Really? I was surprised. I wanted everyone to be there.

By the time midnight came, our numbers had been reduced a lot, and we weren't even done with the pictures. I counted down to zero, and then we said "happy new year". I asked them what they were thankful for lookin back at 2008, but wasn't getting any serious answers which was disappointing. I then asked what they expected for 2009, but I couldn't get decent answers. I wanted to do a time of prayer, but it wasn't working out.

I finished showing the pictures, and then did the second drawing, handing out the remaining chocolate that was left over from Christmas. Then everyone went to bed. It was 1:15 am.

Last Drop Into The Bucket

I went to my office, and decided to get my camera back from Abdias tonight, rather than leaving it with him over night. I went to his room - and found an empty bed. And four more beds were empty. Sekouba's bed even had clothes piled on and covered with a blanket so you'd think someone's sleeping! I was shocked. Five of them had left the property in the middle of the night, knowing full well that was inacceptable.

I told our night-guard to look at his watch at what time they return, and locked the door from the inside. Let them spend the night outside! It's actually been unusually warm, so it's no big deal to sleep outside.

I was shocked at my children's actions - those that have been with me the longest. They've been behaving really bad for quite some time. They should be an example to the new kids, but in reality the new kids have been examples they should have copied. How long would it take for the new kids to start behaving as the old ones, learning disobedience, rebellion, disrespect, talking back?

I knew things couldn't continue like this. This was the proverbial last drop into the bucket. Paul had already made some comments, but we hadn't had a chance to talk it out. I came to the conclusion that it was time for those kids to move on.

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Monday, December 29, 2008

Me Again

Another discouraging day. I talked to Saloum in the morning, speaking to him clearly. Up until now he hasn't even apologized for his reckless driving that caused the car papers to be taken, and me having to go there! He should have thanked me that I would have let him drive again after that.

However, he refuses to drive. And I told him since he's turning 19 in three weeks, he cannot stay and not do anything. He's not a kid any more, and has to be a team member if he wants to stay. This is the second task he's refusing. I told him he needs to move out if he doesn't want to take on any task.

Just when the couple should have come for the interview, they called saying that the lady's daughter is in the hospital, so they can't come. They'll contact me when they can come. I told them it would have to be this week since I'm leaving on Monday. I was hoping they could start working for us on January 1st. It looks like Jean will come back after all.

This past week has been difficult and discouraging for me. The only positive things is that I'm faithful in exercising every day, and that's improved my quality of life. Plus, I listen to sermons as I do.

Today, after my workout, I decided to start driving myself again, since Saloum refuses. So I got the keys, got into the car, and drove to the bus station to pick up the kids and take them to our home. I guess I'll just have to add that to my list of things to get done every day again. Sigh.

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Sunday, December 28, 2008

Another Encounter With Police

Regarding yesterday's blog: Paul came today to apologize for his action. Praise God!

This morning Paul told me that Saloum refuses to do any more driving. Saloum is my oldest boy who is turning 19 in January. Not a child anymore, he's in transition to become a team member, though he is in fourth grade.

First, I gave him the task of looking after Bakary - he refused the very first day. Then he went to driving school since we need a driver, and now he refuses that too. If he doesn't want to do anything, he will have to leave here on his birthday.

Grudingly, Saloum took the car one more time to drive the kids back to the bus station this morning. Some time later I get a knock on my door. It's Paul, and he's telling me that the police has taken away our car papers, and I've been summoned to see them. I couldn't believe my ears!

I asked Saloum what happened but he wouldn't tell me. Both Paul and Saloum got into the other car, and I drove to the police with them. In fact, to the intersection where the police had taken the car papers. I approached the policeman who started telling me how bad Saloum drives. He said that he had simply gone right into the intersection and turned without looking at all, which was extremely dangerous. I totally agreed with the policeman, and thanked him. I told him Saloum was a beginner, but of course, that doesn't mean you can't drive properly. The policeman said that if he catches Saloum again, the papers will be gone for good. Then he gave me the papers.

Silently we went back to the car and drove home. I didn't say another word, but couldn't believe my ears when Saloum once thought he needed to tell me what to do on the road!!!

Jean is gone for another week, and the couple where he is a driver is coming for an interview tomorrow. I would need Saloum to drive for another week - but only if he shapens up.

Tonight nobody is picking up the kids - they will have to walk here. I told our night guard to make his way to us by himself.

This morning we should have gone to Dra to do a service and hand out rice to widows. Needless to say, that didn't happen. We didn't have a service on our base either.

Paul just came to tell me he wants to go get the kids by public transportation, using his own money. That will cost him, but I told him he's free to do whatever.

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Saturday, December 27, 2008

Christmas For Street Kids

I was very disappointed when I discovered that none of the pictures we had taken were there - the SD card was simply empty. So no pictures to go with this blog.

Because of lack of money, and lack of energy and manpower, I decided not to do our typical Street Kid Party that would go for hours, with great numbers of kids and great challenges. Instead, we told the kids that we'd pick them up two hours earlier tonight.

They arrived at 5:30 pm, and I was ready. I had prepared 3 games where two teams would play against each other. But first I gave them their ID cards and wrote down which kids were here. Each kid received candy and stickers, and later a soda.

I split the street kids into two equal teams of 18 kids each - my kids were helpers. For the first game I had put 30 rings of candy on a string - two times. Each team had to eat off those rings as quickly as possible. Unfortunately they were cheating - they wanted the candy more than play the game.

For the second game I put lots of round candy into two buckets. I also put one wrapped candy in there, and they had to get out the wrapped candy with their mouth only. They were allowed to eat the other candy, though that would take more time.

It worked pretty well, but one team was more challenged - maybe it was the different bucket. They had fun in any case, and in the end I thought they'd kill each other to eat the remaining candy in the buckets.

For the third game they had to wrap a person completely with toilet paper. The first one done and having completely wrapped the person would win. We had never done this game, and they did well. One team was faster, but ran out of paper at the neck. The other team managed to wrap the person completely, and a lot of cheering broke out when they had won once again - all three games.

I then handed out little gifts of toy cars and figurines to the members of the winning team.

After having given out a soda to each kid, they had their meal. Then it was time to give them clothes. I called them into my living room one by one, giving them a choice of a pair of shoes, pants, or a T-shirt. 34 out of the 35 wanted shoes!!! Thankfully, we still had lots from last year, and had bought more this year, so they all had their fitting pair of shoes. It was so wonderful to see their joy at having new shoes!

Giving out the shoes took quite some time. After I was done, it was time for them to go to bed. I was trying to find Paul, but he had abandoned us. I had "caught" him threatening kids with a stick in his hand, and he was not happy about that; I was wondering whether that was the reason he had disappeared. Later he came to my door, telling me he could not preach in the village tomorrow morning.

I myself have not been well at all these past four days. I still cough a little bit, but it's actually not physical. The kids have really done quite a few stupid things, some of them shocking, and that's been frustrating. This week they don't get any pocket money. But I've been discouraged generally, and seem to be in a spiritual desert. At this point I'm not doing another service here in Mali, so if Paul doesn't preach tomorrow, nobody will. However, we announced that we would give out rice to widows tomorrow, so it would be better for us to go to the village and be true to our word.

One reason I've been discouraged is our disastrous financial situation. It seems overwhelming, with no way out.

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Wednesday, December 24, 2008

Christmas In Mali

The long awaited day had come - Christmas. These past 24 hours the gifts multiplied more as those two pictures show - the one on the left was taken yesterday, the one on the right is the final picture from today.

Swimming Pool

As the past few years, our special Christmas outing was going to the swimming pool (in a hotel). For several of our kids that would be the first time. I was glad that Hama and Sarata were allowed to come as well.

We took both our cars - I was driving one, and Saloum the other. After having picked up the little ones, our next stop was at the gas station downtown. I filled my car, and bought icecream for all the kids; we were 14 people. For some of the new kids it was their first icecream ever.

We continued on to the swimming pool at the other end of town, where we stayed for a few hours.

The kids all had much fun, and it was a joy to watch them. This picture shows Dramane, one of our new boys.

I uploaded a few videos:

 

 

 

This picture shows Sarata (3) and Bakary (4) who had much fun. I also have a video with the two of them:

 

This picture shows Bakary, Moise and Hama.

This is a picture of myself with Hama, and a picture of Sarata.

A video clip of Hama, who LOVES the swimming pool:

 

Christmas Dinner

While many people in the US eat turkey, and many in Austria fish, our special Christmas dinner was PIZZA. Pizza is pretty much unknown in Mali, and when you do find it, it's often not very good. However, there is this Italian guy who opened a pizza restaurant, and his are pretty good.

We did that last year for the first time, and this year pizza would be our main Christmas dinner. I ordered 20 pizzas, and they even delivered them, all the way from the other end of town. It was very costly but worth it.

In the meantime everyone had gathered, and so we were about 30 people. All the sponsored kids were there (18 in all), plus some parents and our cooking help Rosalie with her kids. I cut the pizzas into fourths, and my boys distributed them. It seems that everyone loved them, and the 20 pizzas were gone in no time at all. Everyone also received a soda.

Christmas Celebration

I then finished my last preparations in my living room, before letting the crowd of 30 people come in. My living room had never been so full before! The smaller kids all sat on the floor while the adults and bigger kids took the chairs. Fanta had come together with Elisabeth and the kids, and to my great surprise, Seybou showed up as well.

At first I talked about what we celebrate and why, and then I put on two video clips for them to watch.

The first one was produced by Christians in Paris. I love it, and my kids loved it.

The second one is a moving depiction of the night Jesus was born. I uploaded them both:

 

I talked a little more about Christmas, and then I handed out these sticks I had brought from Austria to all the kids. I have no clue what they are called in English. When you light them, they "sizzle", looking like bright stars. The kids loved them!

While we were watching them burn, we sang HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Jesus a few times. Then I prayed. And then we took communion together. I was very clear on who could and who shouldn't take it, and was shocked Seybou and Fanta both did. In any case, it was a precious moment.

Then it was time for the gifts. First, we handed out the packages from the sponsors. Each kid received a package with different things. It included underwear, pens, pencils, candy, toys, and the like.

Then we started attacking the table covered with gifts. We went around several time, from the youngest to the oldest person, having them open one present, with the others watching. We had a lot of fun. I always give a gift to each person, and the more people there are, the more challenging that gets. Who knows how many we'll be next year!

In the end I asked them to all hold up their gifts, so I could take a picture. As you can see, I gave my old keyboard to Fousseni who wants to learn to play it. You should have seen his joy at this gift he never expected! It was wonderful!

After having received the gifts, everyone was ready to leave. It had gotten very late, after 10 pm! We had told the street kids we would pick them up at 9 pm tonight, instead of 7 pm. Everyone was leaving, missing out on the cookies we had baked. Some grabbed a few, and the rest was eaten later.

Saloum left to pick up the kids, and we let those at our gate inside. They were not happy that they had had to wait that long!

My boys didn't want to go to bed yet, and I let them stay up until midnight. It's Christmas after all.

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Monday, December 22, 2008

Christmas Cookies

In two days is Christmas (in Austria we celebrate on the 24th), and so it was time to bake some Christmas cookies! The ones we baked a few weeks ago were eaten back then.

Today I even had FOUR helpers - nearly too many. There were (from left) Moise, Bakary, Jérémie, and Amadou. We filled four plates! Everything worked out well, and tomorrow we'll continue so that everyone can have their fill on Wednesday. We'll probably be between 25 and 30 people to celebrate together.

More Power!

What a wonderful Christmas gift! Missionary Anco came over to install more solar panels! He worked hard all day long, up on the roof, in the sun, installing those panels in a way that no one can steal them. Thank you, Anco!

He also brought us a new, powerful generator to support our solar system. It is easy to use and very powerful, and will hopefully last very long. Praise God!

Street Kids In Trouble

One of our kids is spending this night at the police station. He stole a soldier's (!) cellphone who went on a search to find him. He was told where the street kids gather every night - our meeting point where we pick them up - and came there. The children were afraid, and the soldier took the (very little) boy to the station with him. Our night guard also takes that car ride to our base, and wrote down the soldier's phone number. Tomorrow he'll call him to see how we can help our kid.

Change Of Personnel?

Both Paul and I are not totally happy with our current nightguard, a guy from Congo. First, he doesn't speak the local language, and secondly, he has no love for the children. That became very obvious tonight with the situation with the kid that had stolen, and is also obvious every day in the way he talks to the children. It hurts me.

Rosalie is the Christian lady, a neighbor, who comes in the morning and at night to do the cooking. Her husband is night guard elsewhere; it would be easier for him to just walk around the corner to our place to work as night guard. Paul is gonna talk to him about it in the days to come.

Tomorrow night, Jean is leaving for 10 days on Christmas vacation. School starts Jan 5, so he's gonna come back Jan 4. Unless the couple that's coming for an interview on Monday is staying with us.

It's awkward with Jean - both Paul and I just feel uncomfortable regarding him. I'm actually glad he'll be gone for that time. Jean is very involved in another church, and never with us on the weekend. He also just does his job - driving - and doesn't get involved in any other way.

I have to say that so far I'm VERY excited about this couple. I've needed a househelp for quite some time, and the lady has worked as such for missionaries for years! The missionary (who's leaving Mali) is recommending her with lots of praise. Her husband is a driver, and also looking for work. They have two pre-k aged children, and are willing to move in with us.

Please pray for all those decisions - I have a sense that God is at work in all this.

R.I.P. Glasses

Abdias is our "master of destruction" (and I'd like for him to get rid of that title). He has his third glasses in maybe a year. When he plays soccer, he takes them off and puts them in his room. However, now he can't find them. We've spent so much money, there won't be a fourth pair.

Please pray for him, and for the glasses to reappear.

Paul

I thought it was time for a little update on Paul. Things have never been better between us! There is very obvious fruit from his week away. He was truly convicted and changed course. I'm proud of him! And I'm amazed at all this young man is accomplishing! An extraordinary man of God! I tell him these things often to encourage him.

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Saturday, December 20, 2008

Preparing For Christmas

It's been a slow-going day, as I was alternating between trying to rest (never for long) because of that nasty cold/virus, and getting work done.

One of my major tasks today was wrapping gifts, and preparing the packages for the sponsored kids. As you can see, the place for the packages is starting to get populated, though by this time last year and two years ago, there were a lot more gifts, and this year there are even more children.

We are celebrating on Wednesday. We'll be going to the swimming pool - the kids' most-loved thing to do, and then I'm planning on getting some pizzas (if it works out), before we celebrate Jesus's birthday together. Hama & Sarata will join us at the swimming pool, and for the celebration, Paul's family is gonna come. I also have gifts for Seybou & Fanta.

Hopefully I'll get well soon. We also need to bake some more cookies...

Last night, the bigger car broke down just after Jean had left to pick up the kids from the Christmas program. He took it to the repair shop today, and we won't have it for a few days. Good think we have the other one. Since I'm sick, I let Saloum pick up the kids for the first time tonight. They came back safe and sound, so that's good!

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Friday, December 19, 2008

School Christmas Program

Today was Hama & Sarata's last day in school before the 3-week-long Christmas break, and the students had prepared a Christmas program to present to parents and visitors, in the morning as well as in the evening.

Yesterday I got sick - probably a virus - fever, dripping nose, sore throat - and I was wondering how I'd make it through today. God's grace was there to help.

It was also the last day in school for my boys - and Souleymane was already off today, and so he came with me. We drove to Seybou & Fanta's place, and I was overjoyed to hear that Fanta was coming along as well. I'm glad she's showing some interest in her children's education.

I was so happy to see my two little ones again! It's been two weeks since last time - far too long! I miss them so much. I wished they were back with us.

It was also good to see Jonathan again. He's now six months old. I think this is a great picture of Fanta and Jonathan!

The kids had to be at school by 9 am, but the program didn't start until 10 am. Hama started crying when he had to go to his classroom - he wanted to be with me. He kept crying for a long time. When they returned at 10 am, he smiled and sat down on my lap.

During the hour we were waiting I was taking with Hama's tutor. She's done some research to find a way to help Hama more. She found a school for handicapped children, but I'm not totally convinced by what she shared. Today then she told me their Malian name - it's the organization where Hama went for a few months for physical exercises, and it was a nightmare! If it's the same, I don't want him to go there. However, it would be worth looking at that school downtown. In any case, the tutor said that she believes Hama has reached the ceiling of what he can learn in this school, and he needs professional help. I told her we knew what exercises to do with, but he hasn't done anything since moving out 4 months ago. Please pray for the right decision to be made.

The program started at 10 am, and Sarata sang some Christmas carols in English with the others. I loved watching her! I have some videos as well that I will upload later.

Hama also joined in some of the songs. At one time they all held up letters forming MERRY CHRISTMAS, and he held the first letter.

As for the Christmas play, Sarata played baby Jesus! The poor girl had to lie under a blanket in this box the whole time!

At 11:30 the program was over, and I drove them back home before we went home ourselves.

I was glad I had made it through the morning so well, and can only pray I didn't pass on the virus to the little ones. In the afternoon I felt pretty miserable again.

In the evening, I sent all my boys to go watch the Christmas program and support our little ones, while I took care of the street kids.

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Wednesday, December 17, 2008

Weekly Prayer Meeting

We've been neglecting corporate prayer these past few weeks, as we've been struggling to find a time that works for everyone. Not easy with the school schedule. Now it's fixed for Wednesday, 4-6 pm, and we had one today.

I set up the keyboard in the unfinished dining hall, put a few benches around, and a mat on the floor. Though my daily schedule had to be adapted, I was actually looking forward to the meeting. Of course, some of our new kids are still new to prayer. And then one of the street kids came climbing over the wall - two hours before they are allowed to come in - and though I wasn't happy about the "trespassing", I told him he could join us, and he did.

We spent the whole time praising God and worshipping Him. We had a good time. I had missed those precious worship times. The prayer meeting has always been the time here in Mali, when we'd really meet with God. Today I could tell we were all a little "rusty", but it will get better with time.

Nightly Routine With Street Kids

After the meeting, we still had about half an hour before our nightly family meeting. We had to change our schedule to accommodate all we do. During those minutes, I had some fun with Fousseni and Abdias, playing with the Nintendo Wii.

At 6.30 pm we have the family meeting, where we all gather to talk about the day. Then I have them line up and lay hands on each kid, blessing them and calling forth their destinies. We all hug, and they go off to have dinner. After having eaten, they wash and get ready for bed. Only 4-year-old Bakary actually goes to bed then.

At around 7.30 pm Jean (our driver) returns from the bus station where he picks up the street kids. About a third of the kids show up at our gate now, while the other 20 come with the car.

Next I hand out their ID cards - cards with their picture, name, and number. I write down every day who spends the night here, and therefore keep count of how many nights they've been with us. As I hand out their cards, I write down their numbers on a piece of paper for the drawing later.

After they've all received their cards, and I've written down the names of the new kids to make cards for them, they eat, while I cut up the paper with their numbers. Then I take the 4 advent calenders, and two sodas, and JESUS FREAKS, and go back out.

I then draw 4 numbers, and those kids get to open the number of the day and eat the chocolate inside. I draw two more numbers for the sodas - they are the most coveted. One of the two winners tonight is one of the boys we baptized - you should have seen him praising and thanking God when I drew his number! It was touching!

After the drawing I read the next story in JESUS FREAKS; all my resident kids have to come out for that as well. Tonight it was about North Corean Christians who wouldn't deny Christ and were executed. Then we pray for the kids, and they walk over to the door to the dining hall.

Those who have valuables come to my door and give them to me. I lay them all out, with little papers with their names on them so I know what belongs to who. In the meantime Paul is checking that every kid going inside the dining hall has an ID card. Tonight we had to send two kids away, who already knew they can't sleep here - one is actually an adult (too old), and the other is a sexual abuser.

Tomorrow morning they will have a time of worship, Bible study, then breakfast, and then literacy class. Tonight was the third morning, and it's going well. I just LOVE teaching school! One kid asked me today about math class, and I told him this wasn't a school (yet)!

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Tuesday, December 16, 2008

Denise's 12th Birthday

Whenever one of our kids has his/her birthday - whether resident or not - we have a "birthday party". That means, I bake a cake for the honored child. I still had a chocolate cake mix from Austria, and I decided to start baking yesterday, rather than last minute.

I had three helpers again - Abdias and Amadou again, and then Jérémie, our newest addition to the family. They did a great job! After the cake was done, I put it into the fridge to continue with the icing this morning.

My kids didn't have school today - at least those grades 1 through 6; so only Souleymane had to go to school (and Hama & Sarata, international school). So Elisabeth's kids were over at our place - Elisabeth is cooking lunch for us every day; she's Paul's step-mother.

After lunch, I decorated the table, and got the cake out. I lit the candle (I need to buy more on my next trip), and we called Denise in. We all sang HAPPY BIRTHDAY for her, and she blew out the candle. Then we gave them our gifts, one after the other. I had a necklace for her, as well as some perfume.

The pictures show her opening her gifts, and with the cake; her name's written on the cake. Everyone enjoyed the cake, and then the party was already over. Jean needed to go and pick up Hama & Sarata from school, and he'd drop off Elisabeth and her kids on the way.

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Monday, December 15, 2008

Street Kids' Class Starts

I had been looking forward to this day, and though I'm not a morning person, I was excited to start class for the street kids this morning.

Last night I got everything ready - printouts, pens - for about 20 kids, and that's the number we have in the literacy class. After they've had breakfast, we start class at about 8:30, and I try to not go longer than 30 minutes, but that's hard.

They were all very excited to start to learn to read and write. In this picture they are all holding up the first page of their new literacy materials. I was glad that Sekouba was assisting me in keeping order, and making them understand things. Sekouba barely speaks French himself, but he also learned to read and write his language with me, so he knows the materials well.

We started with some simply recognition exercises, and then two words to distinguish. Next we will cut those words up into the letters, and they'll learn the individual letters - to read and write.

Writing is hard for them, and you know immediately which kids have never gone to school before in their lives. Those that have have a considerable advantage, and it's hard to not see the new learners discouraged right away. But so far, they are all eager to learn, and it's a great joy and honor to teach them.

I've always loved teaching school, since before I even went to school myself. I always played school, being the teacher, with my poor little brother being the student. And I've never lost that passion for teaching. Today I realized again how much I love teaching, and I've missed it. Teaching school, and administrative work, are definitely the number one things I love to do.

Movie Time

Tomorrow my boys don't have school (except for the 7th grader), and so we decided to watch a movie together, after having taken care of the street kids who sleep here. So it was about 9 pm before we started the movie. Only three of my boys made it to the end - all the others fell asleep, and went to bed.

I have several movies they haven't watched yet, but all in English, so I have to interpret the whole movie. They chose to watch FLYWHEEL, and they loved it! I also think it's a great movie, where they learn godly living. Obviously, it was pretty late before we were done. No more work for me tonight! I now go to bed rather early (i.e. before midnight) most of the time, since I have to get up early.

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Saturday, December 13, 2008

Out To Eat With Moise

I can't believe I have to write this blog a second time - I don't even understand why it was lost, and I have no intention to write all the details AGAIN.

Normally I pick up Hama & Sarata at their school on Friday because they present to the parents what they've learned that week. Because of examination week, there was no presentation. I was gonna go pick them up anyway - just so I could see them - and because I go out to eat before going to the school. But yesterday nobody wanted to join me, and I was tired anyway.

However, I still needed to go to the supermarket, and I wanted to have that special one-on-one time with one of my boys. Since we were not doing a kids' program today, I decided to take care of those things instead.

I chose to take Moise with me, one of the new boys. I didn't think he'd be that shy, though. I hardly got him to talk at all. We still had a good time, think. I got everything I needed at the supermarket, and then we went to the little restaurant opposite it.

After I was done eating, and was waiting for Moise, who got his food much later, the lady from the neighboring table suddenly gave me her little girl. She said she wanted to finish her meal, and couldn't do that with her baby. So I looked after that little girl for a while.

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Thursday, December 11, 2008

Bakary's First Day

This morning Bakary went to school (kindergarten) with the others. A few hours later, I get a call from Hyacinthe who is a teacher there that Bakary has left the school grounds. They started a search and found him somewhere in the neighborhood. It seems that he preferred going back to the street he knows. We talked about it with him in the afternoon, and told him not to do that again.

I also caught him eating dog food this afternoon, though he claimed he didn't eat it.

When all the kids returned from school, several were pretty angry with Bakary. Saloum is turning 19 in one month's time, and so he needs to take on some tasks. So I put him in charge of Bakary, to look after him. When they returned from school, it was our 9-year old who took care of Bakary, not Saloum!!! (though that's more cultural).

Saloum started telling me that Bakary had insulted him, and that he would beat him up next time if he does it again. I tried to explain to him that Bakary is 4 years old, and hasn't known anything but the street so far! I asked him to be patient and loving and to not take his words to heart as if he were an adult! Saloum wouldn't listen. I was shocked. Several of the other boys spoke the very same way. When Bakary insulted Abdias, he said he would throw the dog on him. I asked him to apologize to him for saying that, but he wouldn't.

We also had a talk with Bakary and told him not to speak bad to people (even though that's all he knows from the street). We also told him some other rules, like not leaving the property or going through the trash. He said he understood. The incident with Abdias happened afterwards.

I'm disappointed that the boys that have been with me for over 2 years are not more mature. How can that be, after all they've learned and heard and experienced??? It is the NEW kids that behave and obey, and not the old ones!!!

These pictures show Bakary - on the swing (he didn't like that), and playing with duplos.

Teenage Problems

Fousseni's behavior has been pretty bad - it's as if he's doing it all on purpose so he gets kicked out and can go back to his Dad's house. He says he cannot make that decision whether to stay or leave, and so he's trying to make us make that decision for him.

In any case, things cannot continue like this. This afternoon was another incident, and Fousseni took this huge knife into his hand in anger while Paul was trying to reason with him. Paul took the knife away from him.

Later I asked Paul how his conversation with Fousseni went, and then we called Fousseni in who had calmed down. I tried talking to him, but he barely said a word. He just said he doesn't know anything right now. Pray he comes to his senses. If he leaves and returns to his family, we'll send him with our blessing.

Jérémie Moves In

Today Paul went to find Jérémie's father, and he did. His father told Paul the story of how Jérémie's mother simply gave him the baby boy and left, and so he had to raise him himself. He got married again, and his new wife had twins 4(!) times. They had plenty of problems with Jérémie who finally ran away, and ran to his grand-mother in Bougouni, where Paul had gone yesterday. So Jérémie hadn't told the truth.

The father told Paul how he had been looking for Jérémie everywhere - with the intention of putting him into the children's prison. I was shocked to hear that! How can a Dad do that? In any case he didn't find him, and he agreed to leave Jérémie with us.

So, welcome to our 9th resident kid!

I have to admit that I've been somewhat concerned about finances, not knowing how we'll make it through the next few weeks. So many expenses, so many bills, so many kids....

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Wednesday, December 10, 2008

Abdias & Jérémie

After some delays, Emma finally arrived a few hours late, and left with Paul to drive to Bougouni, a town 2+ hours away. They took Jérémie with them. They also took Abdias with them, whose family doesn't live far from there, and he's been asking us to go visit. Abdias is the only one of the old kids whose family's permission we haven't sought yet for him to be with us, so that was a good opportunity.

When they came back, they told me what a great celebration there was in Abdias's family and the whole village because he had come! We finally learned the true story why Abdias had left (he had lied to us about that). They also told us how they'd been looking for him, trying to bring him back, but couldn't find him. Abdias left because had spent some money he should have made a purchase with for his family. How much money was it? 8 cents!!!

They confirmed the story that he had been beaten up at school to the point that he had to be in hospital - but not by his teacher but other students. They said that Abdias was never the same afterwards, seemed somewhat crazy, like talking to himself, and Paul shared with them how we had prayed for Abdias and "seen" a good number of demons leave him. Though they are not Christians, they totally understood that and confirmed that that was the problem.

When I asked Abdias how it was, he was smiling all over his face. He had sure loved it!

The original intent of the trip was to pick up Bakary, but they also needed to find Jérémie's family, and they did. His story didn't check out totally, but for the most part. We learned that both his parents are in Bamako (but divorced), and they are the ones who have to give their consent for him to stay with us. So we're gonna try to find them in the days to come.

Bakary's Arrival

When Paul returned from his trip, he stepped into the house, with Bakary right behind him. It was so great to see the little guy! I had waited for him so long! I couldn't wait to start loving on him! Finally he's with us!

He sat down while Paul gave me his report. You could tell he was a little overwhelmed by everything. I had decided in advance to invest myself into this little 4-year old. And with the way hygiene works in Mali, I simply couldn't trust anyone in the house to take care of that. So I undressed Bakary, and washed him, brushed his teeth, and put the pyjama on him I had bought for him in Austria. It fit perfectly! Though I was surprised how big he was, and how well-fed he looked - for a kid searching for food on the streets every day. He must be closer to 5 years old - but of course no one knows. Normally, I fix their birthday for the date they moved in or got saved - so today would be his 5th birthday.

After he was done, it was time for the nightly family meeting. Paul and I prayed over each kid. Then I led Bakary over to the boys' room and showed him his bed. He was still all silent. Paul told me they had not had any dinner. What to do? All I had was some bread in the freezer, so I got it out and put it in a pan for some time. While I was waiting there, Bakary was suddenly inside the trash can searching for stuff. So I told him he didn't need to do that any more, in fact, he was not allowed to do that. Then I gave him his bread, and he went to bed.

Tomorrow he's going to kindergarten for the first time - the same school where all the kids go. I'm also gonna take a picture of him.

Who of you would like to become Bakary's sponsor? In Bambara, they call their sponsors their parents. All it takes is €40 or $50.

No Street Kids Tonight

I had to be a woman of my word, and so there are no street kids sleeping here tonight - a first since we started 3 months ago. I cannot help but think of "my" kids, some of who've slept here every night since, and wonder where they are tonight. I was told that 6 of them are actually outside our gate. It breaks my heart, but I'm sure they will have learned their lesson.

Workers

I've been thinking a lot recently of a family who's wanted to join us and help us out, and I've arrived at the point that I want them to come. Unfortunately they live 2 days away in Timbuktu, and so he can't just come over for an interview. I've left a message on his phone, and am waiting to talk to him.

Alassane has done the YWAM school and another Bible school. He's married with two kids. We need another helper with the kids, and he could be the one. His wife would also be a great help in our household, as I'm the only woman around right now. Please pray for God's will to be done.

Also, I'm not happy with our driver. Nearly every day there are little problems. And he leaves every weekend, and is therefore not a part of our church. For him this is just a job; he drives, and doesn't do anything else. However, we're a family. I'm at the point of looking for a new driver. Prayers are appreciated.

On The Personal Front

It's the first time I'm actually living with the new schedule, of the kids being in school, and I greatly enjoy it. I have more time now - more quiet - and time for exercise as well as more time with God. It's really doing me good! Because of the Muslim holiday, the kids have not been in school all week so far, so the last few days were a little different....

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Tuesday, December 9, 2008

Paul's Transformation

I've been amazed today, on Paul's first day back, to see the transformation in Paul. It's wonderful! In the past, a simple question would set him off - not today. All day long, he was amazingly submitted and obedient - wow. At one point he came into my office and asked me to give him a mother's blessing. Wow! It's truly a new day for us.

As for Sekouba, I could also notice the effort he was making. Great job! Except for the fight with one of the new, and little, kids. He was having fun, while the kid did not like it at all. It was quite a scene, in fact, with another kid joining in as well. The little kid was crying and left the property for a few hours - without permission. Later when he was back, there were more problems with him with yet another one of the older kids. We talked it all out, and everyone seemed to understand his mistakes, and they asked each other forgiveness.

Problems With Street Kids

As every night, the kids were allowed to come in as they sun went down, and then Jean left to pick the others up from the bus station. When they were all here, I handed out their ID cards. I wrote down their numbers on a pice of paper, and then cut them up and put them in a bag for the drawing.

Since we've had complaints from the neighbors, we told them they could not stay around our property during the day, but had to all go back to the bus station. Several asked for another film (since we had shown one last night), especially those that had missed it. Then it was time for the nightly story from JESUS FREAKS - true stories of people suffering or dying for Christ.

After the story, it was time for the advent calendar. Tonight I asked Abdias to take some pictures. I drew number after number, and the kid with that number came forward to open the door for today and take the chocolate. Souleymane was holding the flashlight, so we could see.

After the four advent calendars, I also give away two sodas - leftovers from our celebration. To some degree they love those more than the chocolate.

Then they all went inside to go to bed, and Paul prayed for them. Paul had to leave for an errand, and so it was up to the guard (who doesn't speak their language) and me to keep order.

Some time later, the guard hammered at my door. He was all upset trying to explain what's happened, with the kids around, all talking. I figured it out partly, and finally told them to get inside, and we'd talk about it when Paul comes back. I told them to lie down and keep quiet. We shut the door, and I stood outside the door talking with the guard to find out more, and trying to calm him. The kids continued to make much noise, and several times I opened the door and asked them to be quiet. I finally told them that nobody's gonna sleep here tomorrow if they don't keep quiet. Again, loud noise. So I didn't have a choice. I went inside and told them that nobody's gonna sleep here tomorrow. Their reaction: they all started laughing.

Finally Paul came back, and I explained the situation to him. According to the boys, some girls had climbed over the wall onto the property and entered into their "dorm" by the unwatched door on the other side. There seems to be truth to that, and we're now trying to catch those girls.

Since they respect Paul and don't dare talking to him like to me, the guilty boy was found quickly and sent off the property for the night. Then Paul talked to them very clearly about respecting me and obeying me. He did a great job. I also asked him to make it very clear to them that nobody's gonna sleep here tomorrow. What I say is what I do. They should learn their lesson that way.

Bakary & Jérémie

In my heart, I've had the desire to take in more of the street kids, especially those who were baptized and suffer on the streets, and who want to live with Jesus and have a future. I told Paul yesterday I wanted to at least do the interviews with the eligible kids, even if we can't take in any more right now. At the same time I'm thinking and thinking and trying to figure out how to have more room for more children as it is now.

Jérémie (12) is one of the baptized kids that's a really sweet and loving kid. Tonight I asked him to come into my living room for the interview, as there was some time for us to do it. His name came immediately to mind when I wondered who to start with.

Tomorro, Paul is going to Bougouni (a few hours away) to FINALLY pick up the little 3-4 year old boy who has to search for food on the street every day to survive. I could hardly believe my ears when Jérémie said he was from there. Coincidence? We listened to his story - hear-breaking as always. Mother divorced and remarried, he stays with his Dad, who gets sick and leaves, so he ends up with the mean uncle who beats him until he simply kicks him out of the house. Jérémie was lucky to only be on the street for a month before he first came to our place. Many kids are being sold or used for human sacrifices.

I knew the hand of God had arranged this, and that Jérémie was to have our last remaining empty bed. So tomorrow, Paul is also gonna visit the mean uncle to get his signature on the paper for him to stay with us. Please pray that everything works out fine. If it does, we'll have two more children by tomorrow night.

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Monday, December 8, 2008

A New Beginning

Today was the day Paul was supposed to come back from his week off. Somehow I was expecting him to tell me he would leave us, and I was ready for those words. I wasn't too far off. However, God also had a word to say in that.

In the afternoon the kids called me that someone had come to see me. It was a doctor. A few days ago a missionary sent out a request, looking for a place that doctor could stay. I replied that he could stay with us for free in return for treating the kids. Well, now he was standing in front of me; I was a little surprised (especially that he had found us without directions).

I showed him around, and we talked for a while, and he agreed to move in, though he said it would be quite a change for him. Dupont is a Christian from Cameroun, and my first impression is good. I introduced him to Jean, and told him they'd share a room. Jean's reply was negative, that he would think about that first. I told him there was nothing to think about - that's the way it is. He's moving in at the end of the week.

When I stepped out of the house with Dupont, I saw Paul sitting there, reading his Bible. I introduced them to each other as well. Then Paul immediately sat back down, burying his face in his Bible. He didn't look up when I walked by, and when I put the key to his room next to him. I took it as a bad sign that he was ignoring me like that.

A few moments later he knocked at my door and asked why I was not talking to him. Very funny. He came inside to talk with me. I was curious what he had to say, and let him talk first.

I was right that he had decided to leave us, and he was already looking for a job. Then Paul's Dad talked to him about his pride and the way he talked to me. And then his fiancée talked to him about the very same thing, and I believe another person did as well. He started thinking and praying, and God started showing him things and talking to him. He had a lot of time to read his Bible and listen to God.

He was convicted and repented and decided to change and never talk to me like that again. I was amazed as I listened to him; it nearly seemed too good to be true.

I then also shared my heart, telling him how I realized this past week that he was not indispensable, while also realizing how much work he actually does, and what valuable work he does. I told him that I had as well decided to leave Mali and already been looking for jobs - even found my dream job. I told him I had decided to leave in February. My reason: If I was the cause of all the rebellion and anger and dissension (as he had claimed in the past), then the only reasonable thing to do would be to leave and hand over leadership to someone else. And then I told him that I could never leave Mali, because leaving would mean leaving the call of God and being unhappy the rest of my life.

We then talked about a few more other things that needed being talked about. I had mentioned to him earlier how it is the unhealed areas of our heart that cause all those problems, and he had the humility to agree, and agree to do a TPM session right there and the. Within few minutes, Paul had found freedome from lies that had bound him to this day. Praise God! I don't think it lasted more than 15 minutes, and Paul said that he feels absolutely different, as if God had reached inside and changed something. Awesome!

Then he left. As he walked out the door, he wanted to hear from me that I was not leaving Mali any more, and I assured him I wouldn't.

Some time later Emma arrived for the conversation with Sekouba. Sekouba had asked for Emma to come for that conversation. Sekouba has now been back for 3 months. He came to work, but didn't, and so he wasn't getting any more money from me. Now his family wants him to send money for food, and he doesn't have any.

I told him I was willing to give him money for his family so they can eat, coming out of the church money set aside to help people. I also told him I was willing to give him another chance to earn money, if only he acutally starts WORKING. He agreed he would, and the rest of the day I could tell he was making an effort. He also agreed to go to school - praise God. Another situation resolved for now.

As for Fousseni, hopefully the resolution comes tomorrow. Today he acted as if nothing had happened yesterday. He says a lot of things he doesn't mean when he's angry. I talked to Paul about the situation, and he's gonna talk to him. That is usually the most effective, as the boys listen to him.

I've spent some extended time with God today (and yesterday), which was wonderful. I've missed that.

As soon as the sun goes down, the street kids are allowed to come on our property, and many are now at our doors, and even stay in the neighborhood all day. Some of those we baptized told us of persecution for the name of Christ - people who treat them badly, because they tell them they are Christians. Wow!

How I love those kids! How can anyone say they are good for nothing? My heart goes out especially to those who were baptized, who want to live for Jesus, and get off the streets and stay with us. God, is there a way? Can we let them stay and enroll them in school? I believe I won't be able to NOT take in a few more of them. They are so precious, so vulnerable, and they love me as well. Oh God, send the money so we can continue construction!

Today was the biggest Muslim holiday of the year, where they celebrate that Abraham did not sacrifice ISMAEL, but the ram. Yesterday I promised them to show them a movie tonight - the real story of Abraham, and Isaac.

So we moved the TV outside. After they had eaten and had their advent calendar gift, we put the movie in. Though most of them don't speak a word of French, their eyes were glued to the screen. They loved it.

Before they go to bed, they always gife me their money and valuables, so none of the other kids steal them while they are asleep. I could tell today had been a holiday, because they sure had a lot of money today! The picture shows the piles of coins, and the paper where I write down who's given how much.

Then Paul prayed for them, before the doors were shut. The kids were very happy to see Paul again as well.

It seems like a new day has dawned today. Paul told me tonight how much peace he feels now, and I myself felt some joy and hope that things would be different now. May it be so! Amen!

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Sunday, December 7, 2008

My Older Boys

A few minutes ago (at 10 pm) we were searching the property to find Fousseni (17) and Sekouba (18) who could not be found. They had obviously left the property - a serious thing as the children are not allowed to leave the property without asking, and they are not allowed to leave the property after nightfall.

A few minutes later Fousseni returned, and acted as if he had done nothing, and it was the most normal thing in the world to leave the property at 10 pm to talk to your friend. He's been acting pretty badly, a real teenager, and the most outspoken of all kids. He's been saying several times he's gonna leave, and just said so again. All the kids know they are free to leave - in any case, there are plenty of children who'd like to move in. I told him he's free to leave if he doesn't want to follow the house rules.

I keep thinking of Mozambique, where they reintegrate kids into their families where that is possible. Fousseni would certainly be a child where that would be possible, and that's what he's saying, that he would like to return to his Dad (who had beaten him up all his life and withheld food from him). I would honestly not have a problem with him returning. I believe he could be a light there, as he's become strong in the Lord to a certain degree.

A little earlier, I sat down with Sekouba to talk (and Fousseni was the interpreter, since Paul is still gone). His Dad called him today, asking him to send money for food. A few weeks ago, Sekouba started receiving pocket money instead of a salary because he's simply not doing any work. He was also supposed to start school. And now he has no money to send his Dad and he's upset. He said he needs to work to feed his family.

I told him that the church could help financially to send money for food to his Dad. I told him I'm ready to give him another chance work-wise. If he starts working, I will pay him. Now he says he doesn't want to go to school, but I urged him to still go to night school, for his own future's sake.

During the two years that Sekouba was gone, his faith has pretty much whithered, and it's been hard to "jump-start" it. I don't like what I see. He certainly needs more help to grow spiritually.

Saloum (18) is the oldest boy, and as every teenager his age, he sometimes shows he's becoming adult, and then he's like a little kid again. I've had my share of problems with him recently. Today there was a situation as well, but we were able to calmly talk about it, and it seems he understood his mistake. Unfortunately he reacts that way every time.

It's not easy having 9 boys/teenagers in the house, and no Dad to discipline them! I didn't sign up to be a single Mom. Culturally, they would never dare speak the way they do to a Malian man my age - but that's also because they would get beaten up for it.

Christmas Outing

I was looking forward to doing something special with my boys today. The missionary community had their Christmas program tonight, where their children sing and do a play, and I thought it was the perfect thing to do. In fact, I take them there every year.

So the 7 of them got into and onto the car, and we left. Since we had cancelled the service today, time was no issue. Our first stop was picking up Hama and Sarata. It was so great to see them again! And Hama was so excited to see all the boys again!

While we were waiting for Sarata to get ready, I suddenly saw Paul walking towards us. His family's house is in the neighborhood there. I was a little tense. Arriving at the car, he simply greeted us, and continued on his way.

We also continued on our way to the American school where the Christmas program was held. On the way, we stopped at the gas station where they sell ice-cream, and I bought one for every kid. For our 3 new boys, it was their first ice-cream ever!

We continued on to the school where we arrived just at the right time. It must have been quite a sight, me, the white lady, walking into the school with 9 kids in tow! In fact, people were looking. I've had little contact with the missionary community over this past year, because I've just been too busy.

We went inside, and occupied a whole row. Hama and Sarata sat with me, and they both stood on the bench for much of the program to see better. It was so funny - when the kids who were disguised as sheep walked up on the stage, Hama said "bah" (the sound of a sheep) really loudly in the auditorium, and everyone was laughing.

After the program, they had cookies and drinks for everyone. I had warned my kids not to take more than one or two. For me it was the opportunity to talk to some old missionary friends again, which I greatly enjoyed. Several times we said we should get together some time. I hope we'll do. It would do me good.

Fousseni kept telling that he wants to go home, and not be here, and I kept telling him he'd have to stick it out and to stop complaining. We left soon enough, and dropped Hama and Sarata off back at their home with a heavy heart.

On the way home, we passed the pick-up point for the street kids - who were still there, an hour after pick-up time. I found out that Jean was late, and hadn't even come back home yet. So he went really late tonight to go pick them up. Poor kids.

Back home, I sat down with the street kids who were already there because they had walked to our place, and talked with them. How I love those children! My heart goes out to them! I asked them some questions to hear why they are on the streets. Some of them are so young. I wished I could take them in.

Tomorrow is the biggest Muslim celebration of the year, and it's been gearing up for days. The kids told me that Jessica is killing a cow for that celebration, for her kids. They also told me that all the kids who sleep at our place are not welcome at hers - she takes them to the police. And that her kids fight with them on the street. I told them that Jesus says to love our enemies, to pray for them and bless them, and I encouraged them to do that with those other children.

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Saturday, December 6, 2008

Moving Stuff & Christmas Cookies

This morning Souleymane was the one doing the teaching for the street kids - I'm proud of him!

After the kids had left to return to the street for the day, it was time for some moving within the house. Our carpenter had said he'd come today to move two bunkbeds back down. Well, he never showed up, but our kids managed to move the beds with only partially taking them apart.

A few weeks ago, after the two rooms on the roof of the house were done, 5 of the kids and Sekouba moved up there. However, it turned out that that was not working very well, as they were too far out of reach up there. Plus, Paul really wanted one of those rooms to himself. So I decided it would be smart for the kids to move back downstairs and into the main building. So we had to move two bunkbeds back down, and Jean (the driver) now has the other room up there to himself - at least until other workers come to help us.

So we now have 10 beds in two rooms downstairs. The four older ones (including Sekouba) are in the one room, and the 5 younger ones in the other room. That leaves one empty bed. The move was quite chaotic at times, and there were bad words from two of the children at one point, but in the end it worked out fine. They are now sleeping in their "new" beds, and everything looks great.

I've been wanting to bake Christmas cookies with my kids, as an opportunity to spend some time with them, especially the new kids I've spent little time with. So I brought some ingredients/tools with me from Austria. Today I thought it was a good time for that. I ended up baking them with one of the old kids (Abdias, who always likes cooking), and two of the new ones (Moise and Amadou).

We enjoyed our time together - now they are cooling off and tomorrow we'll see what they taste like.

The afternoon was not over yet, and while several kids went outside to play soccer with the neighbors, three of the kids joined me to play a game on the Wii. We had much fun together and were done just in time for me to drive to the bus station and pick up the street kids.

I had Saloum, who recently got his driver's licence, drive us there. He sure still needs a lot of practice!!! There were several scary moments. After the 25 or so kids hopped onto the truck, I was the one driving back home. I do hope though that Saloum can do this without me in the near future; I'd be very relieved not to have to do the driving on the weekend.

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Friday, December 5, 2008

Life Without Paul

I'm pretty exhausted. It's been 3+ days since Paul left, and it's been tough. It's too much for one person, and I can only hope I make it until Paul returns.

I don't have the energy to check on the kids that they don't trespass the boundaries, or the energy to discipline them, and they take advantage of it. I'm tired of correcting them because I know the anger and lack of respect I will get when I do. And so, there is lots of "liberty" around here these days, with everyone doing what he wants.

I need people to help. I need mature Christians to help. I cannot do it alone.

I've learned a few things since Paul left:

1. Life and ministry without Paul is possible; he's not indispensable.

2. Life and ministry without Paul is tough. I have a new appreciation of all he does.

3. I enjoy the lack of conflicts because of his absence.

4. I'm unwilling to continue life the way it is - with constant angry words, rebellion, lack of respect and submission. Sometimes I wonder if I am the leader here. Where there is no unity, there is no blessing. Something needs to change if we want God's blessings. I have done everything I know to do.

There is no children's program tomorrow, and no service on Sunday. The obvious answer is: there is no interpreter. The less obvious answer is: I'm not up to making an effort to find another one and make our events happen anyway.

Certain things to do are piling up for Paul for when he returns.

Our new driver Jean is a quiet man, but has already done a few things that aren't okay. He's also leaving on the weekends and not part of our church, which makes it hard. He pretty much sees this as a job and stays at a distance.

As every Friday, I went to pick up Hama and Sarata today and see their presentation of what they've learned this week. I decided to take Sekouba along who has not been doing a good job. The whole time he didn't speak a word to me, and I didn't have the strength to bring the subject up of him just having a good life at our place and not working.

It was great - as always - to see Hama and Sarata. Sarata immediately jumped into my arms. When I dropped them off in the unfinished house they now live in, my heart was heavy when I saw all those men there. I really fear for her in this culture where little girls frequently get abused and raped. I didn't like the way she looked at me when I left at all.

Today I paid the next installment for both of them - money we don't really have. I also talked to Hama's teacher for some time. She's gonna come over some time so I can show her the exercises the speech therapist gave us for him.

When I dropped the kids off, Seybou was there as well. I told him I'd like to take Hama and Sarata along as well Sunday night, when we go to the Christmas program the English-speaking missionary community is organizing. He agreed. I also told him about the Christmas play Hama and Sarata are involved in in school, and they're performing twice in two weeks. I told him him and Fanta could also come and watch them.

I just gave the advent calendar gifts to our street children. Several of them - who were baptized - really want to stay with us now. I wished I could keep them. They were in shock when I told them before the baptism that they could not sing Koranic verses any more to beg for money. I told them their heavenly Father provides for them.

Please pray a solution for them also.

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Wednesday, December 3, 2008

This And That

The first day without Paul - ever, since he joined us. I sure felt the difference, with more work for me, with less order in the house, but also with less conflict.

Since he's also the one interpreting, there was no teaching the street kids in the morning, and there is no story in the evening. I tried to keep order as much as possible. And then the kids told me that one of the boys was smoking a joint. It was even a regular kid that has been coming a lot! I took his ID card, and he cannot come back to sleep here for 3 days.

Another boy told me he'd changed his mind and doesn't want to be a Christian any more. On Sunday, he had insisted to be baptized, and so I told him, it's too late now! He's a little younger (maybe 12), and a "unique! kid.

A woman came by whose kids have run away. Since I take pictures of all the kids, I showed her the printout of the 100+ kids in passport picture size, but her boys weren't on there. She didn't have a picture of them either, and so she left again, her face downcast. Poor lady.

ANother woman came by who had received a 50 kilo bag of rice last time we were distributing them. She said thank you for that, and told me that another lady wants to follow Jesus, and asked when she could bring her by. I told her the service on Sunday would be good, but that we probably won't have a service this Sunday since Paul is not here.

By the way, last Sunday a good flashlight was stolen, as well as Saloum's cellphone, and money that was lying on the table to be given to Elisabeth. We have no clue who dared to walk inside the house and steal all that.

I enjoyed the kids being away at school today, and did some reading and praying, and sports, and administrative work.

In the evening, Jean picked up the street kids like every day. On Monday I started giving them little gifts. I brought 4 chocolate advent calendars with me from Austria, and so we draw 4 kids' names each night, and those kids are allowed to open the door and eat the chocolate inside.

My own kids also have their advent calendar - a self-made one with a little bag for each day. Each day when they are in school, I put something in - one for each child. I love it!

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Tuesday, December 2, 2008

Will Paul Stay On?

I have not written a blog in over a week - a busy week with our visitors, a good week where we saw many people saved and healed, but also a very challenging week, primarily in terms of the relationship with Paul, who is extremely exhausted.

Just now there was another incident, and while I've been looking on for a long time, I cannot continue ignoring his behavior because it's harmful for us all. Maybe a week-long vacation for him would do it. Definitely more inner healing sessions. If nothing changes, I do not see how we can continue working together. I've already started the process of considering ministry without Paul so I won't be caught off guard too much.

Please pray for Paul.

A few hours have passed since I wrote those words. I sent Paul on a week-long vacation, and he left in the afternoon. Originally, he was supposed to drive to Bougouni (2hours away) with Emma today to pick up Bakary, our new 3-year-old who lives on the street basically. But without Paul, I cannot do all the work alone AND have a new - and small - kid join us, so it's postponed once again.

I have shed a lot of tears today, in frustration over the way things have been. I myself could do with some rest, and I do enjoy that the kids are at school most of the day.

I also have to say that I've been proud of several of my older kids recently who are really growing up and showing more and more leadership qualities, and potential. Fousseni has been helping a lot, Saloum has had some issues, and Souleymane is an amazing servant. Abdias is still our "worry"-child; he just needs a lot of attention and love. I'm trying to spend some time with the three new kids, but that's not that easy. I'm hoping for some times of baking Christmas cookies together with them.

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Monday, December 1, 2008

Malian Doctor Boubacar

A few weeks ago I got an email from a missionary, telling me about this Malian doctor who'd like to meet me, and then I started corresponding with him. Though not a Christian, he's very humanitarian, wanting to help street children, and has a good number of Christian friends.

So far it had not worked out for him to come visit. I sent him an SMS to invite him to our celebration, but it was rather last minute.

Today told me that one of our street kids is very sick; he's one of the kids that were baptized, the one who comes from a Christian home. Paul told me he'd called Pierre's Dad, but he said he can't do anything.

Several of my kids were also complaining about pain; especially Saloum had not been feeling well for a while. So I remembered the new doctor, and we called him, asking whether he could come by. He said he could come in an hour. Wow!

An hour later he arrived. He looked at Pierre and gave us a prescription for him. He also looked at Saloum. Both had malaria, but the street kid had a few other things as well.

After the examination, we sat down to talk. Boubacar is still very young, and obviously well educated. He told me he comes from a rich home but has always had a love to help those who are desperate. He went to medical school in Bamako (sigh) but has done training in other countries; he recently did a 4-month training in Germany.

I was very impressed with his manners that weren't typically Malian at all, as well as his heart. He didn't take a dime for having come out to our place, and said he'd always be available for us. He said he could come once a week to look at the street kids, and he'd come for the program on Saturday. Then he left - and left a good impression with me.

We went to buy the medication, and pray Pierre is on the way to health.

Fun Mother-Kids Time

Our system of punishment and remuneration now consists of money being taken off or added to their weekly pocket money. If the amount at the end of the week is the same or more than on the first day, they get a gift.

Last week, three kids achieved that, and the gift of the week was playing a game with me on the Nintendo Wii. I had bought that particular game just for them, and had played it once with them, just over a week ago.

Now the three kids - Fousseni, Souleymane and Moise - came to play with me. We used up the whole lunch break, and had much fun together! What a precious time to spend with your children!

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