Four years of waiting.

During my trip to Africa in 2006 I met the most precious little girl named Pennie. She was 4 years old and absolutely the most beautiful child I had ever seen, I fell in love. Since that trip I have been paying her school fees so that she can go to a nice private school. We have written many letters and sent pictures over the years. I have known that I was going to see her on this trip, in fact it was a major part of my decision to come to Uganda.

Thursday July 1, 2010 around 5pm I finally got to see her. She was brought from school on a bota. She was so being so shy and was hesitant to come inside. I was able to pick out her laugh even after all of these years, after a few nervous giggles with the other children hiding out back she finally came in. In traditional Ugandan manner she got down on her knees to greet me. She was even more beautiful than I remembered. Her hair was done nicely in pencil braids and she greeted me in perfect english. Then she smiled. The happiness that I saw on her face and the joy I felt from finally getting to see her brought tears to my eyes. As I fought to keep the tears of pure joy back I picked her up and gave her a huge hug.

We spent the evening talking, playing soccer and Pennie gave me a tour of the house and garden. I am still amazed at how much english she knows. She had to go to school this morning so I got up to say goodbye and I am waiting for her to come back.

This family has been so incredible to me. They have made me feel welcome and appreciated as a visitor but also they have included me in everything that they are doing. I helped to make matoke, rice and onions, cassava and stew for lunch and even wash the dishes. I am already fitting right in. I love being able to be a part of the family and just live life with these incredible people.

Thank you for all of your prayers. The last couple of weeks has been pretty difficult on me but God has truly blessed me already with my one day with this family! I will be posting pictures as soon as I can!