can I just start this blog by saying that I think it is absolutely hilarious that I don't even have to sign in to blogger on these computers?? I'm STILL signed in from 2 years ago!! hahaha. I just type in the website, and it goes right to my account. haha. and also that Rhianna is blasting in here right now. bahaha. I love it.

ok. so, as usual I've spent too much time reading emails (I love it! keep em coming!!) and haven't left enough for writing in this blog. so I'll just write a bit about what's been going on.

This trip is pretty different for me than last time. as a student I had stuff to do and places to be every day, and hardely had time to get to a computer, or even to catch a moment by myself. but this time I have nothing but time! I have to go in search of things to do, and that's a little different for me. stretching. but still good, I suppose.

the most exciting news of the trip so far is that just after I updated this blog the other day telling you that I hadn't seen Namuna yet, we were heading out to lunch and just as we were leaving the iris compound I saw her running towards me!! she collapsed into my arms and cried, and I just held her for SO long, trying to keep myself together. it was by FAR the best moment of the trip so far. I love that girl SO much, and she has occupied so many of my thoughts in the 2 years since I was away from here. it was SO great to see her, and that she remembered me. we've hung out every day since, and hopefully I'll get to see her a little later today.

I'm using every single bit of Portuguese I can remember from the last time here, and trying desperately to learn more so I can communicate with the kids better. I definitely wish now I had spent more time learning it when I was home. but what I remember can get me by.

I've lost all but 1 of my nose rings already, haha. so my plans of still having my favourite piercing when I come home may not be as realiztic as I was hoping. ahh well... I can always get it repierced a 4th time... haha.

I've had a couple nights where I could just go away with some friends and play music, or listen in on a worship practice.. nigths that remind me just how much I LOVE this place for what it is. the music, the beautiful people, amazing harmonies, distinctive african rhythm... *sigh* it's so good.

and so warm! haha.

I think we're going out on an outreach to the bush this afternoon - that's where people usually see the blind eyes being opened, and the deaf people hearing. all that good stuff. so as you guys are just waking up (it's just quarter to 6am there!) be praying that that goes well, and leave me lots of comments!

*love!*