Yesterday we drove through Shimba Hills National Park (right outside of Kwale) with the Grossman family. Today we went to Tiwi beach with the Rains and the Grossmans. It was a lot of fun. They have told us again and again that it is so great to have fellow Christians, fellow Americans, which are two rare characteristics here in Diani. Many of their friends and relatives have opted not to visit them this term due to the political unrest that Kenya was experiencing this past winter. You can imagine that they have been longing for a sense of familiarity; I feel that we have been able to bring that to them in some measure during our time here.
Over the past two days, we have discussed our project ideas with the Rains and Grossmans. They have a wealth of experience working with the Digo people, and they have been open with us in sharing what they have learned in their time here. They offer a unique point of view for us because they are Americans who understand American expectations and ideals, but they also have their hearts and energy invested in working with the Digo people.
A bit about these families:
Mark and Melissa Rains are a young, married couple who have three boys--Joshua, Andrew, and Elias-- who are 5, 3, and 1, respectively. The Rains have worked with the Digo people for 5 consecutive years. All three of their boys have grown up here and call this home.
Mark and MJ Grossman are in their early 40s and have lived in Kenya for 16 years as missionaries. They have worked with the Digo people for 8 years. MJ has given birth to all three of her children here in Kenya. Jane is her oldest, and she is 11. Josiah is 9, and their surprise third child is James who is almost 2.
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6 comments:
Please greet the Rains and the Grossmans for me, if you've not done so already!! :) You are in good company!
Thanks for keeping this blog; I feel like I'm there. You two (Palkovitzes) sound like two awesome friends that I've not had the pleasure of meeting, yet.
So glad you guys have been able to bless and encourage the Rains and Grossmans. Also glad you are getting their perspective on living and working with the Digo; that will be a big help to us as we move forward with whatever God shows us to do.
You are accomplishing more than I thought possible! Thanks to you we are getting some invaluable information so that what we will be doing in the Kwale area will be effective. Like other people have said, I feel like I'm with you. Your writing is wonderful.
How was the beach? Did you go swimming? Ride any great waves?
I always wished I had been born in another country. Those kids must be pretty cool! Are they being home schooled?
ould like to meet these aweome peoples.
Linsay,
We met at the retreat. I love reading all that you write. This one really got to me. We talked a little about my family and my three children and I just find it so exciting to hear about these families. We will continue to pray for you and add the Grossmans and Rains families, too. :) Tiffany
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