Arrived Dakar

HI everyone! We finally made it to Dakar early this morning. We discovered at noon while still in Bulawayo on Wednesday that my family and the Steckley's were to leave Joburg at 6 and the Mac's at 8 - somewhat of a shock. When we arrived in Dakar just after midnight, Ken and Cheryl were there to meet us - it was soooo good to see them. It actually worked out well because we could not have fit all of our luggage into the van. We dropped the group at the guest house and Ken and I went back to get the Macs at 2:30. They arrived safely but they lost one of Leah's suitcases - first time all trip. About Dakar - as soon as you step off the plane, the heat and humidity hit you squarely. This is a very different country from both S.A and Zimbabwe. It is amazing to see how each country copes - some better than others. More about Dakar later. The internet connection is very good in the guest house so there will be lots of postings coming - provided the power stays on.

It was difficult to say good-bye to Jackson and Ronda. We fell in love with them. Jackson is a very rare person who cares so deeply for the poor in his community. He is so full of love and patience but watch out if he sees injustice or abuse- he truly is a defender of the poor. I will let Carolyn post her feelings on this - she will be better able. We have complete confidence in his leadership in Nketa. I will post a few videos and pics of our last days there later today if possible.

We are all very tired now. Predictably - we hit that wall yesterday where more new things can feel stressful - not necessarily "exciting". Though the kids have been fabulous, they are tired. We have come from cool weather - 18-20 during the day and 5-10 at night - to 30 and 90% humidity. The heat here will be an issue. Cheryl and Ken are wonderful and it is good to come in hot season to feel what they contend with daily.

Most of us are seriously sleep deprived. Last night I counted 7 different beds in 12 nights. We have not had time to sit - though we have seen in our travels some very spectacular things. The rides are usually long and uncomfortable and the major flights 8 hrs. and changing time zones, good but different foods, a little bit of stomach trouble and constantly watching what goes near your mouth. Overall, it has been truly amazing. In these last 3 days we will explore the Creech's world and enjoy their company. Mac can now relax a bit - he did wonderfully in Bulawayo. It was not restful for him much of the time - I know he felt like he was always "on". They tend to deify their pastors over here and they can feel real pressure to always look the part.

Thanks for all of your prayers and support and blog views. There is a lot more to come. All being well, we will be home Sunday morning.

shink