Q&A: Part 2

 Here are a few more answers to things you've been wondering about. 

Q: When will I be able to see you again?

A: In short, 2023. If all goes as planned, I will be in the states for a few weeks in February/March 2022. However, this time is intended for a one week school intensive. If the person that asked this remembers who you are, then I may see you on that trip. It is easy to say now that I won't do much travel and I'll try to keep it simple. I suppose next year, we will see how successful that is. Certainly in 2023, I will be around for minimum of 5 months and will try to see as many people as possible. 

Q: What's your favorite dinner out in Kampala?

A: Hmm...That's a good question. I made a pizza at home last week and that was quite delicious, better than anything I've had out in a while. There is a place that makes crepes and I enjoy going there. There is a good pork place that I love to go to with some friends from church. There is a coffee shop that uses coconut milk and chocolate to make a dairy free German chocolate latte. That is a great spot to meet a friend for a chat. I suppose the favorite place depends on the purpose and what I want to get. 

Q: What one wish do you have for people on planet earth?

A: At the risk of sounding so cliché, I want people to know Christ. Especially with the way things have been the last 18 months, I can't imagine how people have survived and stayed reasonably sane without the hope, grace, and peace of Christ. 

Beyond that, I'd love for people to have joy and peace that surpassing understanding. The kind of joy that is deeper than happiness and beyond circumstances is incredible. Even last week, I was discussing with some others and the topic of peace that surpasses all understanding came up. Only with Christ does it seem possible to have peace in situations that make no sense. 

Q: What is daily life in Uganda like?

In many ways, daily life is a lot like other places. Getting up, work, try to keep up with personal responsibilities, repeat. 

There are some differences as Kampala is still a developing area. The electrical infrastructure is such that the power often goes off when it rains. I'm thankful to have a battery back up that keeps most lights and outlets powered in these times. When it rains, it is common to have some flash flooding across roads. (If mom tells you a story about this, know that I have only ever seen that happen when she was here. It is not common for it to be that severe. Sorry, mom!) To be honest, I don't fully understand this. It goes away in less than thirty minutes when the rain stops. As many people travel on foot, by bicycle, or boda (motorcycle taxi), the city comes to a bit of a stop when it rains. As I write this, I nearly left to visit the AIM office and buy some supplies for South Sudan members. But the rain seemed minutes away. I'm so glad I waited as the skies opened up within just a few minutes and I would have been driving in quite the downpour. I suspect the sun may be out this afternoon and it may look like it never rained by evening. 

Perhaps, some of you can follow up and ask me specific questions about daily life. I find after a few years here, there are probably things that are different but I accept as normal/typical.

Q: How is the Holy Spirit working in your life?

A: Whew. He is stirring things in me for sure. I believe I'm definitely called to a season of learning. The thing about learning is that it is typically to prepare you for something to come. I waiver between excitement about this and being antsy about it too. I'm trying to continue to discern if I'm meant to be here, serving in Uganda. Last week, I was reminded that God is more concerned about our relationship with Him than what we do for Him. (Thanks, friend!) I must believe that the Spirit is providing the excitement for school and learning. It seems unreal that I would be so excited about such an endeavor that I had previously not considered. I also believe the Spirit is calling me to abide. Certainly, this is something for everyone. However, more and more it feels like a pivotal point in ministry and abiding with Him is one way to be able to gain discernment for decisions. 

And some of you have asked for pictures of Waffles. Here she is behind me, backed into a corner, trying to stay safe from the rain outside. 

Q&A: Part 1

When you joined my Facebook group, you had the opportunity to ask some questions. 

I will use this space to answer them. In no particular order, here we go.....

Q: What is the purpose of your ministry? What are you doing there?

A: This is a very valid question and sometimes it changes without good communication. Actually just about 10 days ago, it can be public that I am serving in a new way. Now, I get to serve my local church here. I will be taking on different projects and administrative needs to support the pastors at my church. I am really excited about this opportunity and they are too! At the same time, it is a huge adjustment to go from a mixed nationality setting at the AIM office to being one among all others. I believe it will be an adjustment for everyone. They will need to have discernment in what to ask me to do so they can better use their time. I will need to be bold and still sensitive in suggesting things. There is also a small Ugandan organization that sends Ugandans as missionaries to other places in Uganda and Kenya. They have asked for my help as well. 

Occasionally I also get to organize supplies for our AIM missionaries in South Sudan. I'm not a shopper by heart but it is so fun to shop and get them things that will better enable them to be equipped for life and ministry.

The other part of my time is spent with grad school courses. I am so excited to be learning more in a MA in Ministry Leadership program. Next year I also aim to get a graduate certificate in organizational leadership. 

Q: Where will you be spending most of your time the next two years?

Let's see.....two years from now is August 2023. Most of my time will be in Kampala spending my time as described above. If I am able to proceed with the graduate certificate next year, I will make a short trip to America in February/March 2022. This will be about 6 weeks. I will return to the states about one year later (Spring 2023) for my next home assignment. This timing is really specific. Selfishly, I'm trying to plan it around being able to go to my graduation for my MA. 

Q: How have your daily activities been altered by the current spread of the virus?

Uganda recently had a notable increase in cases. This can be noted by looking here. This caused the president to declare a 6 week lockdown from 18 June - 31 July. Public transportation was stopped and private vehicles could only move around with a special pass. I learned I'm capable of walking 13 km/8 mi in one day to see friends and do a couple errands. Religious places and schools have been closed since 6 June most recently and remain closed until further notice. 

Church is on Zoom. 

I work from home. 

Curfew is 7pm - 5:30am. 

Public transportation is now at 50% capacity. 

Private vehicles can move again.

The dance continues: seeing friends based on who is comfortable with what while balancing the restraints of curfew and the fact everyone is still trying appropriately get their jobs done. 

Q: What are you planning to do next? Did you think you would still be in Africa?

The first time I accepted a position with AIM was in July 2014. God provide both in big ways and in fast ways. In January 2015, I moved across the Atlantic. Honestly, I'm not sure I had any idea what to expect. In some ways, I view it has one term (2-2.5 years) followed by home assignment at a time. At the same time, practically one needs to start planning ahead. I can't plan what is next on the last day of home assignment. At minimum, I have to have confidence in what is next before each home assignment so I can appropriately plan on this side of the ocean. 

The world has changed; I have changed. I have had some days where I wonder if something new is to come after this term/home assignment. I have also had moments in meetings or with friends where I can't imagine doing anything else. 

Season of Learning

Continually,  I feel like I am in a season of learning. 

I'm not one to name seasons very often, if ever. However, more and more, my heart and mind feel that this is a season of learning. 

Some of that is practical. Finishing my undergrad degree was certainly a time of learning. During lockdown, I have finished one workshop and will do another soon. In the first week of August, I will participate in conference that is also online. For months, I have had such peace about continuing with formal education and pursuing a master's degree. (I am very excited about this!)

The thing about education is that it prepares you for something. I truly feel that God will use this time to prepare me for something. I'm not sure what that something is. Perhaps all of this is also about networking. If I was ever in a party setting, I would talk to the few that I know and then end up playing with the dog in the corner. There's something different about learning. When everyone is seeking more, conversations, even if digital, seem to be more meaningful. I like the ability to make connections with people that are like minded both in the present and also looking to the future.

Would you be praying about this season of learning? 

Locked Out

In school days there were versions of lockINs. These are times when the group would stay in a designated area. Some reasons for this are to prevent kids from getting into less desired activities. Sometimes the reasons are what is learned and gained from the (forced) time together. 

In 2020 and into 2021, so many people learned about lockDOWNS as governments tried to impose regulations to lower the possible impact of the coronavirus. I’m actually six days into a lockdown now. 

Today the dog is experiencing a lockOUT. 

She had a bath. Some designated time in the sun to dry off and the gate will be opened. Until then, ste will try to earn entrance with varying pitiful looks. 

Who’s there?

Throughout the day the door is usually open when I’m home. Sometimes, I keep the curtain pulled though. Today I caught a glimpse of the view from the outside when Waffles pokes her head out to check on the outside happenings. 

Deep breath, soak it in....

It’s been since early November since I was out of the city. Today, I was able to spend a couple hours in Kibale Forest. It is a national park in western Uganda. For as much as pictures don’t do justice to most situations, this one captures the moment well enough that I think I can take a deep breath just looking at it. What brings fresh air to your soul? Do you live in that situation or do you go looking for it from time to time? 

PS: there’s an animal in there. Can you find it? 

NEWSLETTER: Checking in from a new place

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Greetings to all -  May this message find you doing well. May you find ways to enjoy life no matter whatever stage of pandemic status your area of the world is experiencing.  Waffle Wednesdays Wiffle ball Wednesday season came to an end. It was a wonderful season played in sun and (light) rain. There were laughs, tiredness, fun, and more. As with all things, it didn't last forever and now it is Waffle Wednesdays. I can say this confidently because just a few hours ago I completed the first week of Waffle Wednesdays complete with some sausage. You may wonder the reason that Wednesday has gone from a family activity to a solo activity..... First - let's establish that Waffles can certainly be enjoyed in groups. I encourage you to do this with your family and friends as well as with me, especially if you get the opportunity to visit me in Uganda. My dog's name is Waffles. ;-) Last week I shifted to a new place and that's the main reason that the alliterated activity adjusted. Actually, today marks 8 months since I left Uganda. Goodness, that is hard to see in writing. As thankful as I am for all those that have opened their homes to me for one night or a few months, I made the difficult decision to get a place of my own for the short term. A friend helped me find a good place and and a few others helped me get what I needed to settle. Thank you! Way back in May.... I had the opportunity to go to a retreat for missionaries in eastern Tennessee. I encourage you to check out EdenRidge. This is an amazing place! They understand the need for space and nature and that's what they offer. All of this comes at a highly discounted rate to missionaries. For that reason I ask you to consider donating to them so they can continue their wonderful ministry. They might even have a donation matching opportunity now; though, I can't recall when that was ending. It was incredibly refreshing to be there and be in the Cumberland Plateau. I was able to hike 3-6 miles most days. One trail led to a great overlook that was great for contemplating all the topics. Top Picture Do the days blur and create a fog? I sure feel that way. A few weeks ago I woke up and mother nature certainly displayed the fog that I was feeling.  After a hike on a trail, I found a good spot to contemplate.

Starting waffle Wednesdays with success! I've really enjoyed spotting daisies and trying to capture their beauty from different angles.

Some Book Group (SBG): Round 2 - Week 3. What else is happening? Well....I'm sure you are wondering what the plan is now. Some Book Group (SBG): A few months back a friend asked if I would be interested in reading a book with a group. We would "meet" by Zoom once a week and discuss the chapter. The catch? Well everyone one else is on the west coast. For 8 weeks, we meet and I think only one night they caught me almost asleep as we finished our Zoom meeting. It was such an incredible experience that I thought I would do it again. Pictured above is the second group. I asked a few friends and some asked another friend which led to God orchestrating a really amazing group. I truly love it. Each week we have 4-7 people and we discuss a chapter just as before. Some would say I am leading it. I really start the meeting and loosely facilitate the discussion; though I've already accepted we won't finish within an hour. It is exciting to see how God directs our conversations sometimes in the depths of the chapter and other times on the rabbit (and deer sized) trails of off topic happenings. There's also school happenings. Yes, I wrote school. Earlier this year I started an online program for a degree in Leadership and Administration. I have completed 3 courses and and finishing and 3 in the next couple weeks. This term with 3 class has kept me rather busy. There's excitement in seeing how much I enjoy some of the classes and how they ignite desire in me to learn more on the subjects. Eventually, I will return to Uganda. Within the week of making the arrangements to get my own place and actually going there, I heard the rumblings of Uganda starting discussions about allowing those with work permits to return. Ironic. Yes, I know. At first I ignored it because I couldn't think past getting at least a few weeks at the new place. Reality is that my return will likely be on unique circumstances and not look like my other trips across the ocean. There are countless questions to be investigated about the process. It is a step in the direction of returning but that is as far as things have gone. There is still lots of unknown about the specifics of how and when this will happen. I am trusting God to work out the details and supply me with the peace for all the details I won't know. The unknown can dominate so easily. What I do know is that I'm thankful for how you have provided and prayed for me during this time. I appreciate those that have opened their homes for me to stay. I appreciate those that have expressed interest and appreciation in the ministry of AIM. I appreciate those that have listened on the hard days and laughed with me on the better days. Thank you! Many thanks to each of you! Be Well and Love Much, Katherine   Prayer Requests:  Thankfulness - For a place to stay and how great the details came together. SBG - this has been such a blessing each week. Please pray for the ladies in the group and for our conversations as we study our identity in Christ. Pray for peace of mind and spirit during the waiting. It is hard to plan when I don't know when I can go back to Uganda. It is even more difficult to be extending the time away from my friends and my home. Please pray for when and how the return to Uganda will work out. God already knows the details! Uganda - restrictions have been lifted some. The curfew is still in place; however, life still looks really different there from when I was there 8 months ago. Please pray for the leaders there that are trying to make the best decisions for Uganda.  Personal refinement - pray that I would clearly know what God is asking of me during this time. Pray that I would have eyes opened to all that He has provided and ears open to what He is teaching me through the waiting and the unknown.  Working on some school work. I discovered a junior loft bed works really good as a standing desk.

NEWSLETTER: Wiffle Ball Wednesdays and Some Numbers

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Greetings to all -  Much time, many travels, and multiple cancellations have happened since I last wrote. The time passed quickly, the travels kept me busy, and the cancellations have brought both disappointment and blessing. Wiffle ball* Wednesdays The last four Wednesdays I have had the joy of playing wiffle ball with my friends, well, family really. (We were basically family before now so that is still the same.) Wiffle ball Wednesday was certainly not on my list for this time in the states. One of those Wednesdays was "supposed to be" with family in another state. Another one I would have been on the road. Another one would have been preparing for another presentation on ministry. And one would have been the highlight of a mini-trip with friends. Instead of these supposed to things, I try to focus on the blessings. What a blessing that the weather has allowed this somehow impromptu tradition.....though it is worth noting we have played in 80 degree (26C) weather and 50 degree (10C) weather as well as some light rain and the warmth of the bright sun. I try to focus on the laughs we have throughout the game. It is a blessing to have this space to be outside and enjoy what God has created for us. The picture below seems to really dictate how life is so easily compartmentalized these days. The sun, the light, is focused on dormancy of life. The trees that are striving to survive and waiting for spring to come just as people around the world are waiting for restrictions to be lifted so we can bloom. The pine trees are a blessing and beauty year round. It is easy to miss them with the light focused on another place. I'm thankful that finances are not a concern for me during this time. I'm thankful that I know all the essentials of everyday will be provided just as we know those pine trees will stand tall with their branches out everyday. With these two struggling for our attention we still have to focus on what is in front of us, the grass. We have to get through the grass to get to each of these. What do you have to get through each day? What responsibilities are always there in front of you just as the grass is in front of the trees? And let us not forget the beautiful sky. Let us look up to our Lord who will always be there through the passing time and lack of travels out of the house. Our Lord is never cancelled and is always there just as sure as the sky being there. May we remember to seek Him during this time of uncertainty and great refinement. *Wiffle ball info....sometimes I forget I write to a wide audience and perhaps not everyone knows this term. Think of American baseball but played with plastic ball and bat. Compartmentalizing what life has become these days. Also - this is where all the fun is had with wiffle ball (and recently kickball).

What now......in numbers? Well....I'm sure you are wondering what the plan is now. Let me present to you some numbers to summarize 1 - One day at a time: It seems America and the world are changing by the day. Different states allow different activities. Time will only tell when more travel is allowed and when more aspects of "normal life" are also permitted.  2 - Two times I have been able to join my family for video calls. It certainly isn't as exciting as being together. However, I'm rather impressed that we have figured it out. 3 - Three countries need to have the right lack of restrictions for me to get back to Uganda. My return scheduled for the first week of May has been cancelled. Once America lowers travel advisors and Uganda opens borders, I will be looking at options to return. The third country is needed as there needs to be a layover in between. 7 - Seven states is where I made it to lay my head at night before all the travels came to a halt. A few more were on the list but those trips were cancelled. 10 - Ten times I was able to talk to groups of people about life and ministry in Africa. 172 - Days away from Uganda. Okay...I haven't been counting this daily. I just counted it now. Myself and friends have been counting down knowing I would be gone for 6 months and 4 days. Some tears have been shed as it became official that this is now getting extended. X - The unknown number of remaining days in America this year. The unknown can dominate so easily. What I do know is that I'm thankful for how you have provided and prayed for me during this time. I appreciate those that have opened their homes for me to stay. I appreciate those that have expressed interest and appreciation in the ministry of AIM. I appreciate those that have listened on the hard days and laughed with me on the better days. Thank you! Many thanks to each of you! Be Well and Love Much, Katherine Top picture: View from where I spend time these days. We had fun with the chalk mural a couple days ago and it is still there.  Prayer Requests:  Thankfulness - For so much that has been provided for me during this unique time.....friends that have opened their home to me and strived to provide what makes me feel at home too. Family - there was a week of cancelled visits. Thankful for some video calls that have connected us at while state lines keep us apart. Pray that logistics work out so we can see each other again while I'm in the states. Pray for peace of mind and spirit during the waiting. It is hard to plan when I don't know when I can go back to Uganda. It is even more difficult to be extending the time away from my friends and my home.  Uganda - restrictions on travel including no use of cars and a curfew have made life in Uganda very different for nationals and expats. Please pray for those that don't know where their next meal is coming from, those desiring to provide for the former, and everyone in between. My heart longs to be back at home with my friends and working to help others spreading the Gospel.   Personal refinement - pray that I would clearly know what God is asking of me during this time. Pray that I would have eyes opened to all that He has provided and ears open to what He is teaching me through the waiting and the unknown.  A semi-spontaneous trip to the zoo and I was able to pet a kangaroo a day before so many places started closing.

NEWSLETTER: December 2019

Did you know? Greetings to one and all from a hotel just south of St. Louis, Missouri. Today was meant to be a travel day. After a glorious weekend in St. Louis, a place filled with people and memories that are so essential to who I am, I was to drive the quick 3 hour trip to TN. However, the snow storm coming through was faster and stronger than expected so my quick trip became even quicker when I only made it about 30 miles and landed at a hotel for the day and night. I'm hopeful to continue the drive to TN tomorrow (Tuesday). Did you know (before that opening paragraph) that I'm in America right now?  I arrived just over a month ago. Landing on American soil in a snow storm actually. Per the itinerary I was to have my first transatlantic journey in under 30 hours. However, the snowball effect of flight delays added on some extra time and the journey was about 33 hours. I thought my arrival was well communicated, though mostly through social media and word of mouth. With hindsight, it seems worth noting in case this news did slip by some people. So far I have slept in four states and will add one more before the week ends. The odometer indicates I have spent about 1,450 miles / 2,334 km driving since being back. Did you know I've been working on logistics? A look back at the last few months in Kampala shows that one of the main aspects of my ministry is helping with logistics for our South Sudan Shuttles. All of our missionaries in South Sudan are in places accessible by road IF: there is enough time, good weather, skills for roadside car repairs, and a big piece of prayer. Within AIM we are so blessed to have be part of ministry and serve to support our missionaries. Roughly once a month we send supplies in by plane to help our missionaries thrive in the work they are doing to spread the Gospel in remote areas. I enjoy helping with the shopping and organizing it takes to get this done and look forward to joining the efforts in this when I return in May. Logistics are also a big part of home assignment. These next few months will be filled with reunions, rest, rejuvenation, re-support raising, re-everything somehow. A few of you have been in touch about meeting with me. Please continue to let me know and follow up until we get something confirmed. After that happens, don't hesitate to follow up with me as appropriate because all too soon I'll be able to write something similar to this post. A glimpse at some of the organizing that happens as supplies is purchased and prepared to be flown to south Sudan.

I had some fun in the snow Sunday evening when the first round came to the area. Too many pictures depicting friends to choose just one so here's this one with an armful of friends and a glimpse of the beauty of the fall season in the background.

Did you know you can give any day? Giving Tuesday was a couple weeks ago and some may say it is the season of giving anyway. So, there is the commercialized plug. More seriously though....giving is such a joy and I hope you find that joy in it this season. If you are looking for ways to give financially, please allow me to make two suggestions. South Sudan Logistics: This project helps to raise funds that fulfill the monetary aspect of flying in supplies each month. You can click that link for a tiny bit more information and a place to give online. If you prefer to give in another format, please let me know and I will help you figure out those logistics. ;-) Merry Missionary: This is through an organization that is doing many great things including finding ways to support full time missionaries around the world. This includes putting on retreats, bringing supplies, and helping family members visit. Myself and my friends have benefited from their retreat. Please note that gifts to this project will be tripled on Tuesday, Dec. 17 only. However, gifts can be received any day. Be Well and Love Much, Katherine Top picture: Sunset in TN that clearly shows God's creativity and His desire to give us beautiful things. I had the pleasure of chasing this sunset as I drove west after taking this picture. A Life Overseas: This is a blog that is linked twice in this email. It is of great encouragement to me and many others. I reccomend you to read it as well as it may give you glimpses into my life overseas.  Prayer Requests:  Thankfulness - I'm so thankful I had the means to make a sudden hotel stop due to bad road conditions today. I'm also thankful that even though the intensity of bad road conditions was short lived for me, I was still able to get to a safe and warm place to wait out the storm. Family - there will be lots of family time over the next couple weeks. Please pray for this time together. Pray for our conversations as we come together mostly next weekend. I get to travel with my brother as we see extended family over Christmas. Pray for our 17+ hours on the road (round trip) and for sweet memories with family as we are rarely able to gather together like this. Communications - Pray that I would find the right words to communicate with people from the 90 second conversations to the visits that last a few days. (There have been some odd ones and I'm beginning to think I need to take one friend's advice and open with the line: I'm from Africa.) Pray also that I would know when to listen to you. I want to be here for you as you need me. Not all conversations have to be focused on my time in Uganda.  More gratefulness - I'm so very much thankful for the past few days in St. Louis. I was able to connect with people I hadn't seen in over 10 years. Their reciprocated excitement, memory of me, interest in my life, and kind words were so life giving to me the last few days. And in the midst of that meeting some new people was also very exciting to me. (And bonus: then God topped it all off with snow.)

NEWSLETTER: June 2019 Looking ahead

What is ahead? As my communication seems to be dwindling, I thought I would offer some little bits of knowledge on what I do know about the future....at least known events. The first major event on the horizon is I am going to South Sudan to visit our teams there. I will fly up on 27th July and spend a long weekend there, traveling by air each day. I feel rather honored to get this opportunity. It didn't actually feel real until today when my visa was approved and put in my passport. This is a great chance to get a better understanding of what life is like for our missionaries there and how we can best support them from Kampala. Just after that, I am taking another few days for some holiday in Ethiopia. I will get to see the same friend that came to visit me in April. She has been able to get an amazing trip organized and this will be so much fun! It is good to get out of the normalcies (good and bad) of big city Kampala life and I think these two trips will definitely provide that. In August, we have our regional conference that happens every other year. I help to plan for this and coordinate some logistics as it gets closer. We are thrilled to have a team and speaker come from the U.K. The team will have a program planned for kids and a separate one for our teens. This is a great opportunity to spend time with people that we so often only communicate with via email. Possibly the most exciting event on the calendar is going to begin just as August comes to a close. My mom and brother will come visit for two weeks. All three of us are so excited; though it probably shows in our own unique ways. I've been working on a schedule for while they are here. I think they will be more excited about the sunrise at the Nile than Waffles was in the picture below. That's a little snipet of what is on the horizon here. So at least now you have some idea of what I'm doing when I'm not communicating well with you. Many thanks for all your continued prayer and financial support. There never will be words that can effectively convey my gratitude for all that you do so I can do what I do. Be Well and Love Much, Katherine

NEWSLETTER: June 2019

10 Highlights for 10 Weeks - Part 2 Recently, I haven't communicated well. I shall assume that you offer continued forgiveness on this and for that I am grateful!! Life continues on here. The "10 for 10" line was supposed to highlight 10 things in my first 10 weeks in Uganda after returning at the end of January from a short sabbatical. I'm pretty sure an additional 10 weeks (plus more) has passed since the first part. Not to worry...I remember (most) of what I was going to wright for part 2 and all of what's in my brain is still applicable. Without further delay, let me get right into it.

6. News from the office  New job and new boss. That's right, a couple months back, I switched jobs. Surprise! I still work at the same place and serve the same amazing missionaries around central Africa as we seek to further the Kingdom. I was asked to consider and did accept the position of Office Manager. I realize this isn't the typical thing that comes to mind for someone serving overseas for mission work. There is much admin and background work that goes into the organization (and probably any company). Leaders have noticed my ability to see how different parts overlap and work together. In this new role, I try to keep they overlapping pieces working and interacting smoothly. It puts me in a position to see processes and put things in motion to make improvements where needed so that we can serve the missionaries in our region more efficiently which will in turn spread the Gospel.  The leader for our office and region has also changed or is changing. This has been a long anticipated and planned for change as the previous one and his family have needed to transition back to America. The new one will start on Monday after we've had an interim and unique transition time. Please pray for this ongoing transition in the office. I think some of us, myself include, are still processing the grief as one leaves and the anticipation as a new leader comes. Picture: My office complete with some pictures hanging above the computer and a lovely chair for visitors when someone comes to see me. Prayer Point: Please pray as my new role continues to develop and gain definition. Pray for clarity on how I should focus my tasks. Please pray as we continue this transition with our leader.  Pray that everyone would have grace for each other and that we would all of a learner's attitude as we move forward under new leadership for the office and region.

7. Two Great Weekends  At the time of starting "10 for 10" there were two fabulous weekends on the horizon. One of them was camping with two other ladies. Their husbands were gracious to take care of their kids and let the ladies get away. We stopped for an adventure at a ropes course on the way. It was incredible! We didn't know what to expect but it far exceeded anything we could imagine. The second weekend was a friend coming to visit from Kenya over a long weekend. We had met at meetings in September and have stayed in touch. It was so great to be together again as she will soon make the transition across the ocean. Picture: From the ropes course, here I am crossing the spider web section. It was sooo much fun! Prayer Point: Though it is weeks later, please join me in praise for the time with my friends. Looking through pictures of these adventure out of the city and time with friend(s) on the long weekend, I was reminded of how blessed I am that God has provided the exact friends I needed in different situations.

8. Doing Well  You may remember that I went to the states for about six weeks at the beginning of the year. In a nutshell, the last quarter of 2018 had worn me down and I needed a major reset. Thankfully, my leaders acted and suggested I get a break and some much needed rest. Since returning at the end of January, I am so thrilled to say that I have been doing well. Actually, just last week, a good friend was telling me that she can still tell that I doing really well. It is reassuring to know that is seen from others and not just my opinion. I'm still human and this is still life so there are times of homesickness and the typical bad day everyone gets from time to time. In all the greatness, I am sure that Waffles (my dog) plays a part in this. She's been a great addition to my life. Picture: Waffles and I just laying around enjoying life. Prayer Point: Please join me in thankfulness for this time in the states at the beginning of the year. Thankfulness that AIM has policies and procedures in place for such a time and need. (I've learned not every organization has this.) I'm ever thankful for all the logistics coming together of where to stay and how to get around. I'm thankful for the time that I had with a variety of people, each one that encouraged and helped in their own unique way. I give thanks that even months later, it is clear how wise that decision was and that the rest and encouragement received sustains me still.

9. Revolving Door  This is a recurring topic and will remain a hot topic as long as I live this life. The revolving door of friends continues to revolve. I often tell people that there's no way for any orientation to cover this aspect of expat life. There is something so unique about the bonds formed overseas and when those bonds get stretched over an ocean, much grief is had for all involved. The above picture is from my balcony. Somehow the light area, dark clouds, and obvious rain seemed fitting for such a situation with a variety of emotions. Light - thankful for the good, the memories with friends. Dark - the gut wrenching feeling as people transition away that builds as the time approaches. Rain - the messy feelings of everything all mixed together and yet one must keep going through it all. Prayer Point: Join me in praise and thankfulness that God provides amazing friends to provide the support needed while our paths overlap. Please pray for the undefined loss as our paths part and we both make adjustments. Pray for these friends that are settling into America after up to 10 years of service in Uganda. Pray for the new friendships to form and current ones to deepen as I mend the holes of support these friends provided to me.

10. Home Assignment is Coming  This picture is from a day a while back when I started dreaming a little about what my next time in the states would look like. At the time it was some months away. However, soon it will be just four months away. That's right! In early November I will be headed to the states for 6 months. AIM refers to this as "home assignment". Historically, some may have referred to this as furlough. The problem is that furlough gives an implication that rest may be sole focus of this time. Other high priorities include seeing many of you, sharing stories about this term (since 19 April 2017), and raising more support where needed. Now is the time to start thinking about if you want to spend some time with me or if you have a group that may be interested in hearing about my small part in AIM's efforts to spread the Gospel in Africa. Just a few days ago, I made some tentative plans with friends for December. I started looking at filling in the time before and after and it made me realize how blessed I am to have so many people to see and places to go. It does mean that you should speak soon so I can get you on the list as I put the calendar together. Prayer Point: Please pray that I would remain present in life here and still find the right times to start planning for my time in the states. Please begin praying for the big details like transportation and a place to stay. I am praying for a place that I can use as a "home base" of sorts instead of continually going from one to another like I did in 2017.  Well, I will consider you a little bit more caught up on the happenings. I'd love to hear of the happenings in your life as 2019 reaches the midway point. Top picture: from the camping trip with friends. A simple sunrise selfie at the Nile. Be Well and Love Much, Katherine

NEWSLETTER: April 2019

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10 Highlights for 10 Weeks - Part 1 Recently, I heard someone say that the reason for time is so that everything doesn't happen at once. This may or may not been heard on a show, though it also appears to be a quote from Albert Einstein. It seems that somehow 10 weeks have passed since I returned to Uganda after a short notice trip back to the states for some sabbatical time. In all that time and in the time before, so much has happened. I am so thankful all of it didn't happen at once. For the sake of a catchy line, I thought I would highlight 10 things. I will go back into the end of last year to help ensure you are caught up on the highlights.  1. Moved in November. Surprisingly, even some friends here are just now finding this out. I'm not sure how I managed to move in the middle of November and have it be not common knowledge. Since getting a vehicle almost a year ago, my life has had more opportunities. One of these means that it is no longer as necessary to live so close to the office. I had been wanting to get closer to church. With the ever evolving door of expats, my community of friends in the city has shifted too. The picture above is the front of the building that is now my home. I am in the half that is closest in this angle. There are two bedrooms and bathrooms up and the rest downstairs. I have loved being able to host weekly bible study group from church now that I am closer to those in my church community. Prayer Point: Though there have been many blessings, the change to living here has had some challenges. Please pray for wisdom and guidance in these.  2. Visitors and Waffles  At the end of November, I was blessed to go to a missionary retreat by Go Be Love. Possibly the best part of this was that my friends were not only leading the retreat but staying after to visit. Visiting doesn't truly describe all that they did. They encouraged me, served me, helped me, cared for me (I was sick while they were here), spoke wisdom into a difficult decision, and so much more. With them around, I laughed to tears and felt so loved. While they were here, I got a dog! Yep, I am a proud owner of a 4 year old Ugandan special (local mix breed). She was with another family and had been named Waffles. So Waffles she is. she often finds a way to be the center of things as she did in the above picture and was in the center (though under it too) of a card game. She's been fun and challenging. Prayer Point: Though it is months later, please join me in praise for the time with my friends. Even nearly 4 months later, I am still amazed that they would make the sacrifices they did so that they could be with me for so long.   3. Time in the states  Towards the end of my time with my friends, it was becoming clear that I was actually having quite a difficult time. Life had been a bit too crazy for too long and through all of that, I hadn't been doing anything to care for myself. I am blessed more than I deserve in the support of AIM and the leaders I have. They suggested I take a break and go to the states. With all the travel on both ends, it was an even six weeks from leaving Ugandan soil until I returned. The time in the states was so many things. It was so needed, so delightful, so challenging, so restful, so blissful, so surreal, and more. The challenging part was accepting that it was okay that I needed the break. Some of my time was spent at this lovely place and enjoying a tasty treat by the (electric) fireplace. I hope to go back at least once next time I'm in the states. Even today, I was in agreement with one of my leaders that it was good I went willing when I did. Otherwise, we both know I would have been told to go not too long after that. Prayer Point: Please join me in thankfulness for this time in the states. Thankfulness that AIM has policies and procedures in place for such a time and need. (I've learned not every organization has this.) I'm ever thankful for all the logistics coming together of where to stay and how to get around. I'm thankful for the time that I had with a variety of people, each one that encouraged and helped in their own unique way. 4. Church Family  Once I returned, I was delighted to get back to my church here. The first Sunday back, one of my good friends told me it looked like five years had been lifted from my shoulders. I'll never forget this. It speaks so much into the value of that time in the states. It also helps people all around (including myself) that there was such a noticeable difference. I recognize that there difficulties no matter where you live, but once out of your roots and known culture for an extended time, it is refreshing to be back even with the oddities of reverse culture shock. I am so thankful for the friendships that are deepening at church. I am thankful for friends that text me Sunday evening to make sure I'm ok after missing church one time. (I really just needed 24 consecutive hours at home.) This picture is from an even called Cell Fest. It is something the church has in March and is a time for fellowship and, of course, food. Cell group is the term of the weekly studies that happen around the city. What's the popular term in the states these days? I was so happy to be able to host everyone. It was a great time together all around. Clearly we ate well too! Prayer Point: Again join me in praise and thankfulness for the church home that I have here. I am so thankful for the friendships that have stemmed from being there. Please pray that our cell group would continue to thrive each Tuesday evening. Pray that we would be open and honest with each other, encourage each other, as well as challenge everyone.  5. You are mine, come back to me.  This picture is from the first morning I went back to the office in early February. This is nearly the same avoidance treatment that Waffles give me each morning. Don't be misled by the number of adorable dog photos on my phone, it has been a challenge with her. Since I left so quickly after bringing her home, it was understandably a bit of a challenge to earn her loyalty and trust back. So many times I've called her to me while she lays at the neighbor's door. She would leave me while I actively pet her to go run if she heard the door next door open. Through this annoying struggle, it had me thinking.....how often are we waiting by something that won't help us and God is calling us back. Our Saviour wants us to know we belong to Him. He is waiting with His arms open wide just as my door (and arms) are open wide for the dog to come and be loved. So many times I've told her, "I pay your bills, you belong time me." Have you found yourself being called back into belonging and closeness with our Lord while you are seeking fulfillment in an empty place? Prayer Point: Please pray that I would seek my deepest joy from our Lord. Pray that I would desire the closeness and make it my priority each day. Pray that I would know to whom I belong and have confidence in the things that don't have a stronghold over me. Well, I will consider you half way caught up on the highlights. As I wouldn't want you to have to read and process everything at the same time, I will wait and send the second half another day.  The second half includes a recurring topic, fun days, and news about how I spend my days. Be Well and Love Much, Katherine