My Sweet Pumpkin

In order to welcome the autumn leaves (even though they don't fall here), we decided to go on a pumpkin baking spree.  It was triggered by gifts of several pumpkins from our 

friends in the villages.  I took the challenge head on and attempted to bake some goodies.  Surprisingly, the pumpkin bread I produced well exceeded my culinary expectations.  However, getting the pumpkin into a form where it could be consumed was an all-afternoon affair involving cutting, preparing, baking, more cutting, boiling, then mashing like a mad man!  It's a lot of work, and we still have two more pumpkins left to go.  Thankfully, the ladies are my inspiration in the kitchen.  They later whipped up pumpkin pie and pumpkin cookies to add to the mix.  Then, the next morning, I threw together an experiment of pumpkin pancakes.  The treats were well enjoyed by all.  Any other uses for pumpkin you can think of?  I just need to be careful that I don't get "gourdo" if you know what I mean...

-Wes

Friends Forever

Yes, I know these words come from a song with a significant amount of cheese dripping off of it, but with regard to this last team we hosted, it's a true statement!  Over the first two weeks of August, God blessed us and many throughout Uganda with a fun and energetic team of 8 people from McLean Bible Church, Virginia.  They each took time away from their jobs, raised significant support, and came to a foreign place just for love's sake!  They lived out Christ's love in so many ways, giving of themselves, their energy and emotions, to minister to those living with HIV/AIDS in the villages where GRI works.  They shared testimonies, conducted dramas, taught from scripture, and just spent time loving these people who are battling so much in their lives.  Speaking for myself and many others, it was such an encouragement to have them here!

So, thank you McLean Team, from the bottom of my heart.  The joy and laughs we shared were ever so rich, as was the cake.  May the Almighty Father bless you and keep you wherever he may lead in the months and years that lie ahead.  Thank you for your obedience and maturity in the Lord.  Thank you for giving to these people as you did.  They love you.  We love you.  Christ has shone brilliantly through you!  

-Wes