Being in Africa is cause enough for me to rejoice but I don’t
have to look too far to find other reasons to celebrate. The latest ones
include spending time with Michael and Jennifer Cassidy. This was especially
fun for me because Jenn and I had been teammates on a shoebox distribution for
Operation Christmas Child in 2008. The impact of that trip is clear when you
realize where it has lead. I am now living in Burkina Faso and Jenn and Michael
are adopting a little boy from Ouagadougou.
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| Michael, Jennifer and Arnaud Cassidy |
Arnaud is an amazing little man. He is sensitive, caring,
curious, engaging and definitely a leader. Early on, his love for shoes, hats
and phones was obvious. Riding in the car to numerous medical appointments, he
could be heard whispering to himself as he took in all the new sights and
sounds. Every time we passed vendors of shoes or hats he would tap us on the
shoulder and point them out to us. Later we discovered that at the orphanage he
was known as “Mr. Shoes”. He has loved sporting the new hats and shoes that are
now part of his wardrobe. Some of his happiest times and bathing and eating!
It has been such a privilege to step back and observe the
birth of a new family. Soon Arnaud will meet Jackson, his new brother. So many
new experiences and opportunities await! Wishing this new family many blessings
as they begin their journey together.
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| Walking the pathway to a new life. |
I experienced my first African wedding. These people know how
to celebrate! Dephine, a Sheltering Wings Alumna and graduate of teacher training , is now a
married woman. Following the civil ceremony, the couple exchanged vows in a religious ceremony filled with singing and lively dance.
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| Congratulations, Delphine and Paul ! |
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| Wedding Reception |
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| Happy Birthday, Ruth ! May your light continue to shine brightly for many years to come! |
