VISION Meeting Update and Thensome

Laundry in Zambia

VISION MEETING UPDATE
Sorry this update is delayed the internet connection this week was very unpredictable and the times I sat down to write this, the connection inevitably went out. Overall, the meeting went very well. Each person who attended had the opportunity to share what they think went wrong and how they hoped to see change in the future. Each person also submitted their thoughts more formally in writing. The consensus among the representatives was that formerly training and fellowship among members was lacking. The focus of CBI was too much on acquiring a loan without proper understanding of how to use the loan or even having a proper business to qualify for the loan received. Therefore, the future will hopefully hold an emphasis on fellowship, training, and community outreach. Your continued prayer is appreciated. Please pray that God would put it into the hearts of members to take action on these ideas. Clear focus for the future is still lacking.

ANNUAL PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENT WITH CHIPATA CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
Yesterday, Friday December 5, we held a meeting with the Christian school to discuss their partnership with Partners Worldwide and Sunnyside Christian School in Washington State for the year 2009. Some also were praying for this meeting. Your prayers were answered and goals and vision were cast for the future of this partnership in 2009.

IN OTHER NEWS

THANKGIVING IN ZAMBIA
Kyle and I did celebrate a simple Thanksgiving meal of roasted chicken, mashed potatoes, and steamed green beans. It was my first time roasting a whole chicken and here, the feet and inner organs come in wrapped in a plastic bag stuffed inside the chicken. We did not cook and eat these parts, we gave them away. However, chicken feet are commonly eaten in Zambia. There are not many other Americans around so we celebrated together and then enjoyed phone call from both of our families. I can definitely say that we missed the traditionally cold weather!

RAINY SEASON
The rainy season has officially started. The temperatures remain HOT although it cools down significantly when the rain comes. Right now we receive a heavy rain about every other day. Below are some pictures from the heaviest of the rains we have had. We find that more critters come in when it rains!


This is a picture o f my vegetable garden. The areas completely under water are the beds where cabbage, carrots, and lettuce are growing! No worries they dried up by the next morning. To the left is the pit we dug for compost.
These guys came in through that vent right as the heavy rains started. Below is a close up. You want to keep these geckos around because they help control bug populations. No worries, they are not trying to sell us insurance.

Hopefully this post finds you well and enjoying the beginning of the holiday season. We wish you all the best as you prepare and plan. And most of all encourage you to remember and worship the ONE for whom the season is made.

All our best and more to come.