Webale Nyo

A BIG thank you from the New Creation Family Home children, my P.3 class, and myself for all of your support prayerfully, financially, and emotionally. I could not be more grateful for the experience I've had in Uganda and I could not have done it without your support. I give God all the glory for every bit of it. Without him, none of this ever would have been possible.

God may have sent me to change the lives of these children, but the truth is, they have changed mine. 

My life has been changed for the better.
My life will never be the same.

And I am very thankful for that and I am thankful for you.

Blessed to bless others.

Thank you Uganda

Thank you supporters

Thank you mom and dad

Thank you Brothertard

Thank you Kari and Cassidy

Thank you Izzi

Thank you Taylor

And most importantly, thank you God!

Esther

Meet Esther.

Oh miss Esther, such a sweet soul. She is a wises girl with a smile that can light up the whole world. Esther is Peter's older sister which should say a lot. Both of them are very well behaved with kind hearts. Esther attends New Creation Centre and is in Primary 7, which means she will be going on to secondary school this January.

Esther is not to fond of playing football and would rather be playing dodgeball or reading a book. She also enjoys dancing and especially singing. She has started a band with some of her brothers and sisters in which she is one of the singers who also helps write their songs. She is going to go far in life, with as much potential as she has.

Pray that Esther will continue to do well and school and will grow into the young woman God desires her to be. That she will follow down a path hand-in-hand with God. 

Sharon

Meet Sharon.

Sharon is one of the oldest girls in the house and definitely one of the quietest. Sharon took quite some time to warm up to me, but I kept using the fact that she has the same name as my mom to draw closer to her. She is a stubborn girl with a loving spirit. She continually is coming to me for hugs.

Once you get to know Sharon you find that she is a very loving and fun girl. She knows how to make witty, funny remarks that will always make you laugh. She is a gentle soul.

Sharon is that girl who you want to get to know, but it's so difficult. And not in a bad way. It's an enjoyable challenge. It's fun trying to figure it out.

Sharon is very smart and excels in her Primary 5 class which can make school a little boring for her since there's not the challenge. She has a large amount of potential and I am confident she can pursue her dreams.

Pray that Sharon will continue to do well in school and will be given the challenge she needs. Also pray that she can grow in her relationship with Christ.

Teddy

Meet Teddy.

Teddy is such a sweet little girl with dimples as deep as the ocean. I cannot get over how adorable she is. It took a long time for me to get to know Teddy, because she definitely is a behind the scenes girl and doesn't enjoy being in the spotlight. She is perky and enjoys playing football with the other kids.

She is a very intelligent girl who stays focused in her studies. When she grows up she wants to be a teacher. She is definitely quiet and isn't always right in the action, but the house would not be the same without her. Teddy also enjoys dressing up with her sisters as well as doing her hair.

Pray that Teddy will continue to do well in school so that she can pursue her dream to become a teacher. Also pray that she will grow closer to God continually.

Carol

Meet Carol.

Or should I say, meet Carrot?

When I first met Carol, she told me that her name was Carrot and that her favorite food was carrots. This little girl is definitely a spit-fire and tom boy to say the least. She's always out getting dirty and trying to mess with the boys. She is constantly in some conflict with the boys because of her personality. She is so entertaining to watch.

Carol enjoys playing soccer and especially basketball. She has expressed that she wants to be a basketball player when she grows up. Carol also enjoys dancing and singing, loving being the center of attention. She reminds me of my sister in a way. She is just like Kaitlin was when she was little.

Carol is a crack up and a definitely knows how to push buttons. But that's what makes me love her so much. It's just Carol. Sweet Carol.

Please pray that Carol continues to do well in school and that she can ease down on the competitiveness with the boys in the house. Also pray that she will grow in her walk with Christ.

P.S. Carol LOVES food.

I Will Never Let Go

As I reflect on my time spent in Uganda, I find every day to have been beautifully overwhelming as well as challenging. Not a day has been easy in the least bit and I find myself thankful for it being that way. I have realized that if our lives were easy, we would never grow. God has placed challenges in my life so I can grow and draw closer to him.

Surely there has been more than a few days where I have been angry at God for putting me through what he has. But it is in the end that joy comes and I realize why he deals me the cards he does. I am learning to accept the path God has me on and to eat all that he serves me, The food he feeds me may not always be my best, but it is what helps me to grow strong.

My life has been drastically changed for the better during my time spent in Uganda. I have learned the true meaning of 1 Timothy 3:12. "Don't let anyone put you down because you're young. Teach believers with your life: by word, by demeanor, by love, by faith, by integrity."

I have had many opportunities to be a living example of Christ's love to those older than me. They may doubt me, but that is not something to hold me back. I have learned that I must stand up and teach believers, young and old, by the way I live my life.

I have also learned that when you think you have it all figured out, you usually don't. And you should probably be prepared for a couple of pot holes and speed humps every now and then.

I was browsing my Facebook feed this morning and saw a post by someone stating, "Jesus take the wheel. Now put it in first- NO put the clutch in and- Jesus, what the heck?! You said you could drive stick."

This made me laugh because it reminded me of my journey here in Uganda. For one, I find myself singing the lyrics to Carrie Underwood's, Jesus Take The Wheel, while riding the boda through town all too often. And second, it made me laugh because I think God does know how to drive stick shift. I think he knows how, but chooses to take the more bumpy path to teach us the ins and outs of driving. How do we learn if we don't make a few mistakes every now and then?

It's in the crazy drive, speeding down a dirt rode, hitting a speed hump, and flying up out of your seat along with all the other children riding with you. It's in that same ride that the path soon becomes smooth and those in for the ride find comfort in you and rest their tired heads on your shoulder.

And perhaps that is only a bit of what I have learned here, and I know as I return home in California, there will be much more to learn. God brought me here to witness and help others grow in their walks with Christ, but it has been my life that has been changed. Changed for the better.

As I sat in my room last night, I listened to the children writing a worship song together. Henry on the drums, Charles on my guitar, and the girls gathered around singing. It was just another reminder of the place God has taken in the lives of each of these children. A reminder of all that God has done in my life.

"I once sat down and thought of letting go, but my heart all said no, no, no, no, oh. Don't let go. I will never let go."

Mercy

Meet Mercy.

Mercy is a girl who is an old soul and wise beyond her years. I remember one of my first days being in Uganda, Mercy called out her brothers saying, "Would you talk to your Father that way?" This girl knows the Bible and is not afraid to point out how the Bible says we should live our lives. And she has a heart of pure gold.

Mercy is definitely the big sister in the house, constantly setting a good example for her younger siblings. She enjoys having fun and especially loves dancing. When she grows up she wants to be a surgeon. She has told me on numerous accounts that she wants to open a hospital in India as well as Uganda, to help others medically.

She is a very bright girl who has the drive to pursue each of her dreams. Her best country is India; being completely fascinated by it. She will never pass up an opportunity to learn more about the country or talk to others about what she already knows.

This girl has very bold aspirations that are extremely impressive and is such an inspiration to those around her.

Please pray that she will continue to do well in her studies, as she goes into high school at the beginning of the new year. Also pray that she will continue to be a spiritual leader in the NCFH and that God will clear the path for her to pursue her dreams.

Primary-3

Meet my wild and crazy P3 class! 

Leonard

9 years old

Leonard is the only student in the class who is not repeating and continually places at number one. His best subject is math and he absolutely loves art. He also knows how to crack a good silly face. Him and his best friend Issac continually talk during class and love to mess around. But Leonard focuses when it's time to focus and loves a good challenge. 

Patricia

11 years old

Patricia is quite stubborn, although also an absolute sweetheart. Taylor told me she was crying one day at school when I was home helping care for George. When asked why she was crying, she stated that she missed me and wanted me to come back to school. Patricia is continually writing me letters and giving me bracelets. She is very good at math and performs well in school all around. She is a helper and takes well to positive reinforcement.

Emma

9 years old

Emma is another stubborn student and works very slowly. When he becomes frustrated because he has not finished his work while the other students already have, he folds his arms and places his head down on his desk. But I've reminded him that working slowly is not a bad thing and that it helps ensure that he's not making mistakes. Which proves correct because he places in the top three in most subjects. Emma is a sweetheart who also loves to make silly faces.

Vanesa

8 years old

Vanesa, oh Vanesa. She is the youngest in the school and has the shortest attention span, ever. But Vanesa is my little buddy. I tell her that she's the honey to my bee. Vanesa struggles in school but with extra help she can focus and get her work done. I've often said that if I could take Vanesa home with me, I would in a heartbeat. This little girl has completely stolen my heart. She even knows how to take a joke, because she's gone along with me saying that hens are her friends. 

Allan

14 years old

Allan was originally one of the toughest students in the class but over time has become a leader. Allan is Patricia's brother, having the same father and different mothers. Allan is incredibly smart when he puts his mind to it. He performs best in math, but would rather be drawing or reading. Allan has a tough future for him, being 14 and in P3, but I know if he sticks with it, he will go places in his life. He is stubborn and can make things happen.

Vero

12 years old

Vero is one of the best behaved in class, although I am quite positive that she has a learning disability. She is never able to complete any assignment and performs very poorly, unfortunately. But she has such a big heart and is always there to lend a helping had. She loves to do the dishes as well as dance around the classroom with the other girls in the class. Vero always welcomes you into the school each morning with a "how are you?" and a handshake.

Esther

13 years old

Esther is Emma's sister, and unlike Emma, she does not speak English. This has posed to be a major challenge. She is extremely smart and performs well in math. The other subjects are difficult for her because she is unable to read or understand the English. I am working with her on English so that she will be able to perform well in all subjects. Her laugh is the sweetest thing ever and her smile is heartwarming. The boys like to mess with her, but towering over them in size, she can easy throw them all off of her. I don't intervene because it's quite entertaining to say the least.

Richard

9 years old

Everyone knows who Richard is...the trouble maker! Richard is the most difficult student in P3. "Teacher! Teacher! Teacher!" Nonstop. Richard has a difficult time focusing in class and would do so well in his studies if he just kept his bum in his seat and did his work. He is such a sweetheart and craves attention. Richard attends the same church as me so I get to sit near this little rascal throughout church each week. He is unable to focus during church as well, ha.

Isaac

9 years old

Isaac also performs well in school and I think it's because he hangs out with Leonard so much. Him and his best friend like to mess around, but Isaac focuses when Leonard is not disturbing him. Issac is probably the best behaved in class and listens the best. He was the first winner of the Pop Fizz Award which is given to the student who has had the best behavior throughout the week. He enjoys math but would probably rather be out of the classroom hanging with his friends.

Joseph

Meet Joseph.

Joseph is quite the character, even thought you would not expect it at first. It took a long time for him to really open up, but now that he has, he is quite enjoyable to be around. He is quickly catching up with Henry when it comes to being a little bother. Yes bother. Joesph is the typical little brother who likes to bother you in any way possible. But more than being someone who messes around, Joseph is such a sweetheart. He truly has such a gentle way about him with a mighty funny laugh.

Joseph seriously has the best laugh I have ever heard. I cannot help but laugh when I hear him laughing.

Joseph enjoys playing football, drumming, drawing, and simply hanging out. And if you bring out the camera, he is always bound to strike a pose or two. Joseph is one of those who you can't help but adore. He is kind but also knows how to have a good time and take a joke. I have found that I can mess with him without him getting mad or upset, and he's willing to do it right back to me.

Just today him and Henry locked me in their room by tying the closet door and the bedroom door together. They tried to enter by passing under the closet door which was about a a foot off the ground, but I told them anyone who attempted to pass would be tickled. Joseph couldn't make it through. He is quite ticklish to say the least. 

I've found that besides tickling Joseph, taking his pillow usually does the job. I love messing around with Joseph and I am quite positive he likes messing around with his aunties also. 

I can't think of anything bad to say about Joseph because he is truly a really great kid with a big heart. 

Please pray for Joseph as he grows into a young man of God, that he will become a leader to his brothers and sisters and that he will do well in school as he finishes off his last term of his P5 school year.

Lawrence

Meet Lawrence.

Lawrence is one of the older boys in the home who probably comes off as one of the most innocent. But don't be deceived, he is typically always in on a good joke. When I first came to Uganda, I didn't really connect with Lawrence because we are both somewhat quiet. But after time I began to really connect with him and is kind ways. 

Lawrence has one of the biggest hearts and his caring ways shine brightly. If there is not enough food, he is always willing to share his or give all of his up for the sake of others. He always out others first.Except for when we ask to take a photo of him. Then it's all about what he wants. The photo below doesn't do justice of how difficult it is to get a photo of him. 

Lawrence enjoys playing football and is usually put as keeper, because he's rather good at it. He wants to be a farmer when he grows up, and enjoys pulling a good prank or telling a good joke. I can hardly ever get a straight answer out of the boy because he messes with me so much.

But I will say, as time has drawn on, I have grown the closest to Lawrence out of all the kids here in Uganda. He is mature, respectful, kind, loving, and still knows how to take and throw a joke. Lawrence will be a great father one day, even though he harasses Joshua like no other at the moment.

Please pray for happiness for Lawrence and that he can do well in school. Lawrence would rather have fun than bear down and study, so pray for focus in school. Pray that he will continue to grow in the Lord and that he will be provided a highlighter when I leave so he can highlight in his Bible. (I think I'll leave him one of mine :])

Bedroom Tour

I thought that perhaps you would like to see the room that I am staying in while in Uganda, so I decided to take a few photos to show you around. So, enjoy!

This is a shelf that Izzi and I use for our food and that I also use for my cosmetics and such. It is the the left of the door when you walk into the room. I also store my guitar case at the foot of Izzi's bed.

I have claimed this wall for all the letters the the children have written me. I have recently become tired of hanging them, so a lot of them are just in a big envelope, but it's a nice reminder of all the love that's given to me here in Uganda.

This is Izzi's bed, which was Taylor's bed before she went back to America about a month ago. Izzi uses the shelf to the right of the bed as her night stand and little storage space. The top of the shelf has a mirror that we placed there as well as some body sprays we purchased at the supermarket. I also store my guitar next to her bed, against our desk.

Oh, and my Taylor Swift calendar is placed next to the window. The sun was much too bright at the moment for it to show up in the photo.

Here is our desk and my bed. I sleep on the bottom bunk, which I actually enjoy quite a lot. It's my own little cave in there which is nice for quiet time. On the desk we keep our chargers, sunglasses, pens, pencils, and then I just keep my random little nick knacks. I didn't do a close up of the desk because a gift for my dad is being used as room decor at the moment and I didn't want to spoil the surprise. But I do have my Club 1031 photo displayed on the top of the desk as well!

I also have photos of my friends and family placed above my bed as well as encouraging words I wrote on index cards.

Here is the little space that I claimed as my own on the desk. Of course having my Wolfpack photo next to my bed is a complete must. My guitar picks, Ugandan phone, rocks for Ricardo, trinkets the kids have given me, trinkets from my mom, bracelets, rings, earrings, sweeties, lotion, chapstick, hand sanitizer, my new flashlight that is already broken...and I think that's about it. Random stuff is kept here.

I use two ice chests has my night stand. My computer is typically on the back ice chest while all my books are kept on the front one, as well as my iPod. 

This is where we hang our towels, hats, bags, laundry bags, belts and such. Sometimes I hang my backpack on there, but usually not. 

And then here is my closet! I live out of my suitcases. I store my shoes under the bed and my hoodies are usually hung on the ladder of the bunk bed. My jeans are on there at the moment because it started raining outside while my clothes were drying yesterday and my pants are still yet to dry.

And of course, Bruv is always sleeping on my bed. It wouldn't be the same without him around. 

Well, that is about it. Not too much to show to be honest. I would show you the bathroom, but there's nothing much too it and it's not the cleanest thing if I'm completely honest. We keep it clean, but it's just naturally not clean.