God is Good!

Hello everyone!
I hope all is well over in the U.S!  Sorry it has taken me awhile to update you all.  Kenya has been amazing so far.  It's hard to believe we've been here a week and a half already, time flies!  Lots has happened in that time frame,  it has been quite the experience thus far.
Right after we arrived we jumped right in and met the kids, hung out with them, went swimming, played football (soccer), and tried lots of new foods.  But then I got pretty sick for about 3 days and was stuck in bed, and it was no fun.  Last week we spent a lot of time getting to know the kids, and developing a relationship with them.  We would take things to do with them such as painting, thread for bracelets, and sidewalk chalk.  The kids are absolutely precious, and I treasure each friendship I have made.  Being in Africa has been quite eye-opening and I feel blessed to be here.  I'm loving every moment of it.
Last week we were able to attend a women's bible study on Thursday and that was really neat to meet different women from all over the world who are great women of God.  It was a very encouraging time.  Each day though we are able to spend a lot of time not only playing with the kids but talking to them.  They are always so curious about everything and ask lots of questions.  I also got to meet the girl I sponsor, Mary!!!! I am so very excited to spend time with her these next few weeks.  She is a great friend and a beautiful lady.  Sunday we went to church and it was a great service, about being encouraged in difficult times.  Sunday night the kids had their July Birthdays Celebration, complete with ice cream and cake.  The kids always say speeches for each other and it was a great time with the kids.
Our plans for the next couple weeks include starting our VBS with the younger kids, and spending time with the older girls doing some baking and watching movies.  We are very excited :)

Prayer Requests:
-Please pray for Lauren as she is very sick.  She got sick the other night and has been in bed ever since.  Please pray for a quick recovery!!
-Pray for the older kids as they go to their Student Conventions this week
-Pray that VBS goes well with the younger kids
-Pray that we keep growing closer to God

Thank you all so much for your support!!

Love,
Rachel