I am so excited to show you the wonderful work of Hajiba and the 3 other widows who have made the "Simeon and Sula" dolls.Hajiba and the other widows live in a rural village outside of Nairobi Kenya. Imagine now the book is alive, the dolls are made and a CD has been produced.
I want to take a minute to explain how the women who have sewn these dolls struggle to live each day. They are 4 widows who have children they are raising. Their inspiration to make these dolls came when Charles Mpanda went to our friend Eva with my book. He showed her the book, they read the story and Eva knew right away who could make dolls. It wasn't really planned but it was "the plan" all along. They got busy sewing the dolls and not only did they do this without electricity but on treadle sewing machines and their own hands. They made clothes for the doll all the way down to the "undergarments" for Sula. Each doll is made with love. Each doll is unique and has a special outfit to wear.
I am so proud to be helping Hajiba and her friends. I can't believe how we can help serve while learning about how others live. Hajiba didn't stop at just making the dolls but they also made animals for Simeon and Sula too. I will post these photo's next.
If you would like to purchase a book please go directly to my publishers website: www.authorhouse.com. If you would like to purchase the book and dolls you can email me. simplehope1@gmail.com. I can do a special Christmas mailing for you. The dolls are $15/each or 2 for $25. You can add the book and the total package price is $40.00. Their will be mailing charges based on size of order.
Remember my illustrator is an orphan young man too. So the book sales are also going to help him establish a life for himself too. He also composed and sang the song that I wrote called: "Love, Trust and Kindness" Please visit my books website to listen to it: www.simeonandsula.com. You can find the song under "kids corner"
I am available for author visits to schools, churches or organizations at any time. Please email me for availability.
Thank you for sharing your love with those who struggle to survive each day.
Blessings and peace ~
"The Happiest Day for Simeon and Sula"
Children's Book
Simeon and Sula Dolls
Purchase and help those who suffer
Hajiba (middle) widow who made dolls
Supporting the widows in Kenya
Simple Hope East Africa Director Charles Mpanda
Dedication of SHEA Food! Thank you Country Director Charles Mpanda for your help!
Building a bridge of love between our worlds
Hand in hand we help each other!
Matonyak Orphanage
Sharing Love with an orphan
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Friday, November 18, 2011
Thank you Lumen Christi - 3rd grade class
What a wonderful blessing to be asked to come and explain how my book became "alive" and "real" When I first gathered with the children at this school, the teacher said, "Does she look like an author?" and the children said "NO WAY" I laughed and asked them what an author looked like..they said: "Old, wearing a skirt and having long hair" Truly it was a wonderful way to see the image in their head.
The time I spent with these children warmed my heart. All of these children are more than blessed in their daily living. I asked them if they enjoyed the book? The teacher had read it to them the day before I visited. The kids mentioned what they learned and how they felt. I didn't expect to have reached them so deep. Their hearts were real and they shared their feelings with me. They explained how they felt sorry for Simeon and Sula. They wanted to know how people could really live like they did.
I was touched as the teachers came to me and hugged me and Thanked me for putting this story together so that others could learn. This was my hope and dream for the purpose of this book.
I am grateful for this visit today - what a blessing and I continue to hope and pray that the efforts from Sheggy (the illustrator) Hadjima (the widow who made the dolls) any my blessings of visiting Tanzania yearly will help others learn in a way that no other book could.
Blessings and peace -
The time I spent with these children warmed my heart. All of these children are more than blessed in their daily living. I asked them if they enjoyed the book? The teacher had read it to them the day before I visited. The kids mentioned what they learned and how they felt. I didn't expect to have reached them so deep. Their hearts were real and they shared their feelings with me. They explained how they felt sorry for Simeon and Sula. They wanted to know how people could really live like they did.
I was touched as the teachers came to me and hugged me and Thanked me for putting this story together so that others could learn. This was my hope and dream for the purpose of this book.
I am grateful for this visit today - what a blessing and I continue to hope and pray that the efforts from Sheggy (the illustrator) Hadjima (the widow who made the dolls) any my blessings of visiting Tanzania yearly will help others learn in a way that no other book could.
Blessings and peace -
Saturday, October 1, 2011
Monday, September 26, 2011
The rest of the story...
The mission trip was packed full of so many miracles! After I had written the initial post and when we were in the "bush" time never presented itself to us again to do more writing.
Our moments with God and how he directed us all of us....Charles, myself, Elicana and Karen, seemed that it was surreal. We knew that "our" goal was to go and live with the Hadzabe to learn more about them, their lives and their daily living conditions...however, God had a much different plan. The man that was suppose to be taking us to live with this community, had a much different goal in his mind. After we talked to him in great detail about our desire to serve this community and asked him to please put aside his desire to make money, he became a bit unnerved with us. We explained that all of us were "volunteering" our hearts and souls to these people. That we dedicated ourselves our time and our possessions to serve. He said he understood but at the 11th hour, he requested that we pay him for his time with us - completely missing the point of serving his fellow brother/Tanzanian. Oh well, a big pole sana. We said we would find the way to learn about these people without him...he wasn't happy as he only wanted to make money! Our goal was to make sure that all the government officials knew who Simple Hope East Africa was! We met with the district medical commissioner, the regional commissioner and several ward officials before we even drove out to get to know one another. This was the "right" way to do our work. We let everyone know who we were, that we weren't there to take anything from the Hadzabe but to hold their hand and help them grow!
Our time was more than blessed by God. He made everything happen for us that we could not have done if we had not done the right way! Our time together with the Hadzabe was deeply meaningful. We cooked our food for them (of which they had never had..) They watched us cook it, then eat it ourselves first. Each of the community members took a bite then smiled then took another bite then smiled and finally asked for more.
We will be building a feeding/foundation center for this community. The government wants everyone of them to be educated! However, throwing them into a school straight from the bush will not prove to be effective. Our feeding center will be the first "foundation" or "platform" for them to begin to acclimate to the world. We need to help them slowly slowly! We don't want to change them or their lives, we want to bring them hope and education at their own pace. They were so thrilled to hear about our help however the elder tribe member came up to me during the meeting and said a few words. After the interpretation, she said, we really and truly appreciate your help...but PLEASE DO NOT leave us! We need you and your help! Tears weld up in my eyes and I completely understood what she was saying! They have no other help or hope!
This is a huge calling for us but we have accepted the call, we will not leave them alone and will give them every opportunity to grow strong!
This group has had very little interaction with others. They are not afraid but they are afraid of the let down and loss of hope! I get this! I have committed myself for the rest of my life to serving this community. I need lots of help!
Will you join me in serving the "least of the least?"
Blessings and peace~
Our moments with God and how he directed us all of us....Charles, myself, Elicana and Karen, seemed that it was surreal. We knew that "our" goal was to go and live with the Hadzabe to learn more about them, their lives and their daily living conditions...however, God had a much different plan. The man that was suppose to be taking us to live with this community, had a much different goal in his mind. After we talked to him in great detail about our desire to serve this community and asked him to please put aside his desire to make money, he became a bit unnerved with us. We explained that all of us were "volunteering" our hearts and souls to these people. That we dedicated ourselves our time and our possessions to serve. He said he understood but at the 11th hour, he requested that we pay him for his time with us - completely missing the point of serving his fellow brother/Tanzanian. Oh well, a big pole sana. We said we would find the way to learn about these people without him...he wasn't happy as he only wanted to make money! Our goal was to make sure that all the government officials knew who Simple Hope East Africa was! We met with the district medical commissioner, the regional commissioner and several ward officials before we even drove out to get to know one another. This was the "right" way to do our work. We let everyone know who we were, that we weren't there to take anything from the Hadzabe but to hold their hand and help them grow!
Our time was more than blessed by God. He made everything happen for us that we could not have done if we had not done the right way! Our time together with the Hadzabe was deeply meaningful. We cooked our food for them (of which they had never had..) They watched us cook it, then eat it ourselves first. Each of the community members took a bite then smiled then took another bite then smiled and finally asked for more.
We will be building a feeding/foundation center for this community. The government wants everyone of them to be educated! However, throwing them into a school straight from the bush will not prove to be effective. Our feeding center will be the first "foundation" or "platform" for them to begin to acclimate to the world. We need to help them slowly slowly! We don't want to change them or their lives, we want to bring them hope and education at their own pace. They were so thrilled to hear about our help however the elder tribe member came up to me during the meeting and said a few words. After the interpretation, she said, we really and truly appreciate your help...but PLEASE DO NOT leave us! We need you and your help! Tears weld up in my eyes and I completely understood what she was saying! They have no other help or hope!
This is a huge calling for us but we have accepted the call, we will not leave them alone and will give them every opportunity to grow strong!
This group has had very little interaction with others. They are not afraid but they are afraid of the let down and loss of hope! I get this! I have committed myself for the rest of my life to serving this community. I need lots of help!
Will you join me in serving the "least of the least?"
Blessings and peace~
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Mission Trip to Tanzania Sept 2011 so far......
I am sitting deep in the bush right now experiencing life like I never knew. I happen to be able to connect through a phone and the internet (still not quite sure how this is even possible as there is nothing around us) however, I am quickly going to share the journey so far.
Our flights went well through Nairobi. We were delayed by a few hours on the way from Amsterdam so arrived at 10:30 vs 8:00. Charles, Elicana and Eva were there to greet us. It was great to see their smiling faces and know we were right where we needed to be. We spent the following day meeting Hadjiba who is making the Simeon and Sula Dolls. They were exactly as I had imagined beautiful and made with love. I have ordered 40 dolls to be sold when I get back to the USA. Monday we traveled by bus to Arusha. We arrived and checked in the hotel. We met with our friend Ryan who is doing missionary work from the USA. We managed to have a fun reunion with lots of laughs.
Tuesday was business day for Simple Hope East Africa. We managed to check off almost everything we needed to accomplish. We worked and walked all over Arusha. We signed a lease on a beautiful office for SHEA which is also a guest house. This home will be open to all guests that come from anywhere in the world. We will post pictures on our website with all the details when we get back. Our other work was getting things checked off from what the government needed from us to complete so our NGO works and functions 100% in the positive and in complete transparency.
We visited the Matonyok Orphanage in the evening. It was great to see how well the center is doing and to see little Bryson. He was standing up and walking when we arrived - PRAISE GOD! We passed out the school bags that were donated by Mary C and the VBS photo cards that were made by St. Elizabeth Ann Seton parish in July. The children were so happy to see these gifts. Pilgrim UCC also made some very awesome origami toys that we brought along...what fun to see them blow up the balloons and watch how the tea cups were used. We built a bridge of love between our worlds by sharing these many gifts with the children who otherwise would not have anything.
Wednesday we packed up and headed out to Lake Eyasi. We had a few complications to get through but in order for Simple Hope to do the "right" work all these steps were necessary. In the end our making the decision to follow down the right path (not easiest though in terms of wait time) but it allowed up to move free and clear because the government recognizes us as a NGO that is truly a passionate and caring organization. I will post more on that when I get back.
We are now on day 5 in the bush. It is peaceful, beautiful and breathtaking. We are living in our Cabela's tents where are wonderful. We are remaining simple in our daily needs - we are eating just a meal a day and are happy for the one shower we have each and everyday. This morning I heard something walking passed the tent and thought it might have been our night watchmen but when I sat up to look there were two cows just outside the window. Then I sat up on the other side of the tent was monkeys playing and screaming with each other. It is always so relaxing to know that we all move in harmony with each other.
I will write more about our wonderful journey with the Hadzabe on the next post. Time is ticking and the internet keeps going in and out and I don't want to lose what I have typed.
Thank you for your prayers, kind hearts and well wishes. Our mission trip is another awe inspiring trip and we are continually amazed at how GREAT GOD is with our work.
Blessings and peace,
Our flights went well through Nairobi. We were delayed by a few hours on the way from Amsterdam so arrived at 10:30 vs 8:00. Charles, Elicana and Eva were there to greet us. It was great to see their smiling faces and know we were right where we needed to be. We spent the following day meeting Hadjiba who is making the Simeon and Sula Dolls. They were exactly as I had imagined beautiful and made with love. I have ordered 40 dolls to be sold when I get back to the USA. Monday we traveled by bus to Arusha. We arrived and checked in the hotel. We met with our friend Ryan who is doing missionary work from the USA. We managed to have a fun reunion with lots of laughs.
Tuesday was business day for Simple Hope East Africa. We managed to check off almost everything we needed to accomplish. We worked and walked all over Arusha. We signed a lease on a beautiful office for SHEA which is also a guest house. This home will be open to all guests that come from anywhere in the world. We will post pictures on our website with all the details when we get back. Our other work was getting things checked off from what the government needed from us to complete so our NGO works and functions 100% in the positive and in complete transparency.
We visited the Matonyok Orphanage in the evening. It was great to see how well the center is doing and to see little Bryson. He was standing up and walking when we arrived - PRAISE GOD! We passed out the school bags that were donated by Mary C and the VBS photo cards that were made by St. Elizabeth Ann Seton parish in July. The children were so happy to see these gifts. Pilgrim UCC also made some very awesome origami toys that we brought along...what fun to see them blow up the balloons and watch how the tea cups were used. We built a bridge of love between our worlds by sharing these many gifts with the children who otherwise would not have anything.
Wednesday we packed up and headed out to Lake Eyasi. We had a few complications to get through but in order for Simple Hope to do the "right" work all these steps were necessary. In the end our making the decision to follow down the right path (not easiest though in terms of wait time) but it allowed up to move free and clear because the government recognizes us as a NGO that is truly a passionate and caring organization. I will post more on that when I get back.
We are now on day 5 in the bush. It is peaceful, beautiful and breathtaking. We are living in our Cabela's tents where are wonderful. We are remaining simple in our daily needs - we are eating just a meal a day and are happy for the one shower we have each and everyday. This morning I heard something walking passed the tent and thought it might have been our night watchmen but when I sat up to look there were two cows just outside the window. Then I sat up on the other side of the tent was monkeys playing and screaming with each other. It is always so relaxing to know that we all move in harmony with each other.
I will write more about our wonderful journey with the Hadzabe on the next post. Time is ticking and the internet keeps going in and out and I don't want to lose what I have typed.
Thank you for your prayers, kind hearts and well wishes. Our mission trip is another awe inspiring trip and we are continually amazed at how GREAT GOD is with our work.
Blessings and peace,
Saturday, September 3, 2011
Looking forward to the next month!
Not quite sure what is in store for this mission trip - however we know that there is much to accomplish! We have many people to see, business to do and each day find a way to Thank God for calling me to this mission.
I never thought I would say this but Mission work is NOT easy. In fact, I have really felt alot of challenges coming on this trip! I know that if I ignore the call to do this work - too many would continue to suffer, and really when I talk to my youngest daughter about doing this work, I explained to her that there are children we are helping who are orphaned. It became more clear for her that having a roof over her head, clothes to wear, school to attend and food to eat was truly what she needed to be content and happy.
I am looking forward to the next couple of weeks and seeing how God wants us to work in his kingdom!
Thanks for your prayers and thoughts - they are truly making a difference
Blessings and peace ~
I never thought I would say this but Mission work is NOT easy. In fact, I have really felt alot of challenges coming on this trip! I know that if I ignore the call to do this work - too many would continue to suffer, and really when I talk to my youngest daughter about doing this work, I explained to her that there are children we are helping who are orphaned. It became more clear for her that having a roof over her head, clothes to wear, school to attend and food to eat was truly what she needed to be content and happy.
I am looking forward to the next couple of weeks and seeing how God wants us to work in his kingdom!
Thanks for your prayers and thoughts - they are truly making a difference
Blessings and peace ~
Saturday, August 27, 2011
Grace, Strength and the whisper from God.
Next week at this time, we will be somewhere over Egypt en route to Tanzania. We know that our entire trip will be led by Christ who strengthens us. This trip already feels much different than the other 5 that we have been on. We know that there is so much more ahead of us to bring hope to those that live without.
God has groomed us during the last several years, he has shown us little by little or (kidogo kidogo hujaza kibaba) little by little it will arrive that these mission travels to Tanzania are not about us as individuals. Our hearts have been opened to serve....the poorest of the poor. We know that millions await a whisper of hope...maybe it is through me individually, maybe it is through our director Charles Mpanda, maybe it is through our NGO in Tanzania Simple Hope East Africa, maybe it is through all of our hands and feet.
The one thing we are sure of is we get our on knees to pray, Thanking God for putting the spirit in us to serve. Is this easy??? The answer is no,,,but that answer is also the right answer. We know that we lead our work through our hearts and nothing else!
Pray for our mission trip to be led by the spirit. Please pray that we can be the hands and feet of Christ, to bring love, hope, comfort and peace to all those we will see and serve.
Blessings and peace ~
God has groomed us during the last several years, he has shown us little by little or (kidogo kidogo hujaza kibaba) little by little it will arrive that these mission travels to Tanzania are not about us as individuals. Our hearts have been opened to serve....the poorest of the poor. We know that millions await a whisper of hope...maybe it is through me individually, maybe it is through our director Charles Mpanda, maybe it is through our NGO in Tanzania Simple Hope East Africa, maybe it is through all of our hands and feet.
The one thing we are sure of is we get our on knees to pray, Thanking God for putting the spirit in us to serve. Is this easy??? The answer is no,,,but that answer is also the right answer. We know that we lead our work through our hearts and nothing else!
Pray for our mission trip to be led by the spirit. Please pray that we can be the hands and feet of Christ, to bring love, hope, comfort and peace to all those we will see and serve.
Blessings and peace ~
Monday, August 22, 2011
Vitamins, Toothbrushes, Floss Needed!
As you have read by my posts, Tanzania is suffering! We are waiting patiently for our food to arrive on the container and it should arrive when we are there! Needless to say, people and situations are very desperate now and we will have to be careful in transporting and distributing the Simple Hope Food.
We know that vitamins are a precious gift. We are collecting donations of "chewable" children and adult vitamins. We will take these with us and give to those that are in desperate need of some nutrition. We would also like to take toothbrushes and floss with us. GENERICS are just fine.
If you feel called to help us in the next 2 weeks, please email me: simplehope1@gmail.com. You can send them to me at PO BOX 4 Menomonee Falls, WI 53052 or if you are in the area, I will come and collect them from you.
Your kindness will truly make a difference.
Blessings and peace ~
We know that vitamins are a precious gift. We are collecting donations of "chewable" children and adult vitamins. We will take these with us and give to those that are in desperate need of some nutrition. We would also like to take toothbrushes and floss with us. GENERICS are just fine.
If you feel called to help us in the next 2 weeks, please email me: simplehope1@gmail.com. You can send them to me at PO BOX 4 Menomonee Falls, WI 53052 or if you are in the area, I will come and collect them from you.
Your kindness will truly make a difference.
Blessings and peace ~
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Responding to a call!
Last week we received word from Tanzania, that famine was rearing its ugly head! Due to lack of rains, the crops that were planted in the beginning of the growing season never germinated and weeds quickly took over leaving nothing to harvest. When your life depends on what you grow, this is a horrible situation. I will not even begin to describe what it must be like for families whose reality is waking up and looking at the dry fields.
After we received this email from the Bishop of the Meru diocese in Tanzania, we put our heads together and thought about food that we packaged here, shipped to Tanzania and had in storage! We had 50 boxes or 10,800 meals we could send to our sister village on the slopes of Mt. Meru. I called Charles, asked him to coordinate a "relief effort" and get some of our nutritious food to Pastor Nnko and his villages.
The food was delivered today! These meals will end up in the bellies of those that thought they would not make it another day.
My heart is truly happy (at least for today) that we were able to act so quick....with the help of our Country Director Charles Mpanda! He put everything aside to help the "least of the least"
We can do all things through Christ who strengthens us.
Thank you everyone for helping to pack this life saving food! YOU truly saved a life today.
Blessings and peace~
After we received this email from the Bishop of the Meru diocese in Tanzania, we put our heads together and thought about food that we packaged here, shipped to Tanzania and had in storage! We had 50 boxes or 10,800 meals we could send to our sister village on the slopes of Mt. Meru. I called Charles, asked him to coordinate a "relief effort" and get some of our nutritious food to Pastor Nnko and his villages.
The food was delivered today! These meals will end up in the bellies of those that thought they would not make it another day.
My heart is truly happy (at least for today) that we were able to act so quick....with the help of our Country Director Charles Mpanda! He put everything aside to help the "least of the least"
We can do all things through Christ who strengthens us.
Thank you everyone for helping to pack this life saving food! YOU truly saved a life today.
Blessings and peace~
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Quite the delay!!
The summer has really gotten away from me. I have to say, things are more than busy now for me, Simple Hope and the book! I am happy though and Thank God everyday for all the blessings.
In just a few weeks, I will be on my way (with Karen) to Tanzania. We are excited, nervous and full of much work ahead of us. NOBODY said that being a full time missionary was going to be easy and we knew that. There are no job descriptions for us, nobody has done what we are doing so we have to take each new day as it comes and know that we are being used as God's Hands and Feet to help those that suffer. Suffering...is happening all over our world. Famine is very much a part of life in Tanzania as well as Kenya, Somalia, Sudan, Rwanda and the list goes on and on. Our focus will always be Tanzania. Our wonderful director Charles Mpanda is in touch with us on a daily basis letting us know that the country in particular the northern region where we are doing our projects is struggling with crop failure. The seeds that were planted in the beginning of the season never germinated because the rains never came. The rains that help fill up the water basins to create hydro electric power are not filled hence no electricity. The food that is in the country has risen in price so much that nobody can afford it. WHAT NOW??
My answer forever and ever is to HELP! We cannot delay. Imagine waiting for someone to think about donating $25.00 (yes your hard earned money) to help purchase and send a box full of nutrition that would ease the pains in your stomach! Imagine, waiting for someone to finish their big fat juicy steak that came off the grill with a side of potato and salad with a wonderful cherry cobbler for desert to decide if the extra money in their pocket is worth giving to help feed the starving people who have NOTHING! They didn't choose this life! They didn't wake up and say "gosh I hope don't have food for a few weeks"
We cannot delay. I am leaving in a few weeks to meet the food that so many wonderful volunteers helped pack! We will hand deliver to these mama's whose children are hungry! Our dedication does not end after we are done delivering...it will continue! Hunger never ends and neither does our love for our brothers and sisters in Tanzania. THEY NEED US!!! THEY NEED US MORE THAN EVER NOW!!
Help us at any one of our food packathons!! Set up your own packathon...Do something...Please don't delay!
Blessings and peace ~
In just a few weeks, I will be on my way (with Karen) to Tanzania. We are excited, nervous and full of much work ahead of us. NOBODY said that being a full time missionary was going to be easy and we knew that. There are no job descriptions for us, nobody has done what we are doing so we have to take each new day as it comes and know that we are being used as God's Hands and Feet to help those that suffer. Suffering...is happening all over our world. Famine is very much a part of life in Tanzania as well as Kenya, Somalia, Sudan, Rwanda and the list goes on and on. Our focus will always be Tanzania. Our wonderful director Charles Mpanda is in touch with us on a daily basis letting us know that the country in particular the northern region where we are doing our projects is struggling with crop failure. The seeds that were planted in the beginning of the season never germinated because the rains never came. The rains that help fill up the water basins to create hydro electric power are not filled hence no electricity. The food that is in the country has risen in price so much that nobody can afford it. WHAT NOW??
My answer forever and ever is to HELP! We cannot delay. Imagine waiting for someone to think about donating $25.00 (yes your hard earned money) to help purchase and send a box full of nutrition that would ease the pains in your stomach! Imagine, waiting for someone to finish their big fat juicy steak that came off the grill with a side of potato and salad with a wonderful cherry cobbler for desert to decide if the extra money in their pocket is worth giving to help feed the starving people who have NOTHING! They didn't choose this life! They didn't wake up and say "gosh I hope don't have food for a few weeks"
We cannot delay. I am leaving in a few weeks to meet the food that so many wonderful volunteers helped pack! We will hand deliver to these mama's whose children are hungry! Our dedication does not end after we are done delivering...it will continue! Hunger never ends and neither does our love for our brothers and sisters in Tanzania. THEY NEED US!!! THEY NEED US MORE THAN EVER NOW!!
Help us at any one of our food packathons!! Set up your own packathon...Do something...Please don't delay!
Blessings and peace ~
Monday, July 18, 2011
Vacation Bible Schools!
What FUN we are having teaching at Various vacation bible schools this summer!! The children, teens, adults and seniors have brought such a wonderful dynamic to helping us teach them about what life is like in Tanzania!
We want to THANK all of our mission partners for having us come to plant the seed or water a seed in these children and adults that are attending their churches VBS programs this summer.
We love the questions that everyone is asking! We love to see the comments that are made as each person discerns why others have to live in such difficult situations! I have to admit, until I went there I wonder if I would have asked the same questions that we are being asked during our teaching moments.
I am so grateful to have been called to this work. I am blessed to be trusted to teach about our world! I get the opportunity to travel to Tanzania, it is my responsibility to share what I am learning on each and every trip!
Blessings and peace ~
We want to THANK all of our mission partners for having us come to plant the seed or water a seed in these children and adults that are attending their churches VBS programs this summer.
We love the questions that everyone is asking! We love to see the comments that are made as each person discerns why others have to live in such difficult situations! I have to admit, until I went there I wonder if I would have asked the same questions that we are being asked during our teaching moments.
I am so grateful to have been called to this work. I am blessed to be trusted to teach about our world! I get the opportunity to travel to Tanzania, it is my responsibility to share what I am learning on each and every trip!
Blessings and peace ~
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Bryson!
I have such joy in my heart today! After being on skype with our wonderful director Charles Mpanda who was at our orphanage ~ he shared with me the most awesome story.
On my blog I have a photo of Libby holding Bryson! We met Bryson the end of March! When we arrived, he was listless, very tiny (weighing only about 15 pounds) and could barely hold his head up. We all took a turn holding him ~ tears came to my eyes knowing that this poor little boy needed food - the orphanage was doing all they could to get by with the little they had. Our Simple Hope food had not yet arrived but I knew that it was not going to be long until Bryson would not be able to survive! My prayers started immediately for this young boy.
After we arrived home, we worked feverishly on getting our food out of the Port and to Matonyak! Our director Charles got our food there very safe and the feeding began.
TODAY I was thrilled when on skype with Charles and he told me he weighed little Bryson and his weight has jumped to 21 pounds! He said he was even standing on his own two feet and gave a gentle smile to Charles. It truly is a miracle! Prayers are answered and THANK GOD for his mercy and grace.
I am counting the days when I can be back at the orphanage seeing this with my own eyes. I hope Bryson knows how much we love and care for him!!
I am so proud of our director Charles - who gives selflessly of himself - to help those in desperate need! Please keep him in your prayers as he is a tremendous asset to us (Simple Hope) and his fellow Tanzanians.
Continue to pray for all those in Tanzania who suffer with lack of food, clean water, education and healthcare! We know that "kidogo kidogo hujaza kibaba" Little by little we will arrive ~
Blessings and peace~
On my blog I have a photo of Libby holding Bryson! We met Bryson the end of March! When we arrived, he was listless, very tiny (weighing only about 15 pounds) and could barely hold his head up. We all took a turn holding him ~ tears came to my eyes knowing that this poor little boy needed food - the orphanage was doing all they could to get by with the little they had. Our Simple Hope food had not yet arrived but I knew that it was not going to be long until Bryson would not be able to survive! My prayers started immediately for this young boy.
After we arrived home, we worked feverishly on getting our food out of the Port and to Matonyak! Our director Charles got our food there very safe and the feeding began.
TODAY I was thrilled when on skype with Charles and he told me he weighed little Bryson and his weight has jumped to 21 pounds! He said he was even standing on his own two feet and gave a gentle smile to Charles. It truly is a miracle! Prayers are answered and THANK GOD for his mercy and grace.
I am counting the days when I can be back at the orphanage seeing this with my own eyes. I hope Bryson knows how much we love and care for him!!
I am so proud of our director Charles - who gives selflessly of himself - to help those in desperate need! Please keep him in your prayers as he is a tremendous asset to us (Simple Hope) and his fellow Tanzanians.
Continue to pray for all those in Tanzania who suffer with lack of food, clean water, education and healthcare! We know that "kidogo kidogo hujaza kibaba" Little by little we will arrive ~
Blessings and peace~
Monday, June 27, 2011
"The Happiest Day for Simeon and Sula"
Finally! My first children's book is published! I am humbled by the experience. I never even thought about writing a children's book - but to my amazement here it is. I truly want to Thank God and my family for supporting my efforts in this book... God had this amazing plan all along, and it was very real as each step went seamlessly easy. Not having any knowledge on how to write a book is one thing but then to take to being fully published still amazes me.
I am so blessed with the illustrations for this book too! My dear friend Ann Solomon introduced me to "Sheggy" and here is another very wonderful story that only God could facilitate. As I was learning about traditional publishers the same story kept coming back to me: "We will take your story but WE WILL find the illustrator" and I kept saying, NO, nobody knows this story better than Sheggy who has lived this story. My friend Ann read him my story and he immediately began to cry...he said this story was the story of his personal life. Sheggy was orphaned at a young age and was left with no parents or siblings from age 11! Imagine that? He began to draw to take the pain out of his heart and God gifted him with this talent that only can be explained as a gift from God. He has had no formal education and has never had an Art class. I am beyond blessed with his illustrations for this book.
This book is a wonderful tool for parents, grandparents, Aunts, Uncles, churches, schools, vacation bible school, community learning centers, libraries and children to read. They will get to know another way that most of the world lives and how difficult it is for them.
I have been blessed to travel to Tanzania 5 times since my first trip. I will be returning again in September. I continue to learn about how children/orphans/street children live and my heart continues to reach out to help them as much as I can.
If you choose to purchase this book, I will tell you that a portion of the proceeds will go to help "Sheggy" our illustrator so he can continue to lift up his dream of becoming an artist / musician and it will go toward helping with our many wonderful projects of Simple Hope.
Please consider purchasing a book at: www.authorhouse.com OR if you live in the Milwaukee Wisconsin area, contact me at: simplehope1@gmail.com and I can arrange to get you a copy.
This book is a wonderful teaching moment for you. Please help me to help others.
Blessings and peace ~
I am so blessed with the illustrations for this book too! My dear friend Ann Solomon introduced me to "Sheggy" and here is another very wonderful story that only God could facilitate. As I was learning about traditional publishers the same story kept coming back to me: "We will take your story but WE WILL find the illustrator" and I kept saying, NO, nobody knows this story better than Sheggy who has lived this story. My friend Ann read him my story and he immediately began to cry...he said this story was the story of his personal life. Sheggy was orphaned at a young age and was left with no parents or siblings from age 11! Imagine that? He began to draw to take the pain out of his heart and God gifted him with this talent that only can be explained as a gift from God. He has had no formal education and has never had an Art class. I am beyond blessed with his illustrations for this book.
This book is a wonderful tool for parents, grandparents, Aunts, Uncles, churches, schools, vacation bible school, community learning centers, libraries and children to read. They will get to know another way that most of the world lives and how difficult it is for them.
I have been blessed to travel to Tanzania 5 times since my first trip. I will be returning again in September. I continue to learn about how children/orphans/street children live and my heart continues to reach out to help them as much as I can.
If you choose to purchase this book, I will tell you that a portion of the proceeds will go to help "Sheggy" our illustrator so he can continue to lift up his dream of becoming an artist / musician and it will go toward helping with our many wonderful projects of Simple Hope.
Please consider purchasing a book at: www.authorhouse.com OR if you live in the Milwaukee Wisconsin area, contact me at: simplehope1@gmail.com and I can arrange to get you a copy.
This book is a wonderful teaching moment for you. Please help me to help others.
Blessings and peace ~
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Have you ever wanted to take part of a MISSION TRIP?
I am very excited to say that we at Simple Hope have organized 3 separate weeks for mission travel in March 2012 to experience what it is like to live, eat and work in Tanzania East Africa. We have finalized projects that will be our focus for three different mission weeks in Tanzania.
These trips have been meticulously planned by co-founders Pamela and Karen along with the partnership of our director in Tanzania! We have planned them to be meaningful both spiritually, mentally and physically. We will connect you to those children and adults that are looking forward to meeting YOU!!!
We will be focusing on construction projects for week 1 and 3. Our second week will include vocational training. We can provide in depth details for our trips if you are seriously considering joining us. Please email simplehope1@gmail.com for more details or to speak one on one about what it entails to join us.
We are very excited to share our work with you!
Blessings and peace ~
These trips have been meticulously planned by co-founders Pamela and Karen along with the partnership of our director in Tanzania! We have planned them to be meaningful both spiritually, mentally and physically. We will connect you to those children and adults that are looking forward to meeting YOU!!!
We will be focusing on construction projects for week 1 and 3. Our second week will include vocational training. We can provide in depth details for our trips if you are seriously considering joining us. Please email simplehope1@gmail.com for more details or to speak one on one about what it entails to join us.
We are very excited to share our work with you!
Blessings and peace ~
Sunday, June 19, 2011
The Brown Envelope!
As I was blessed this weekend to have a "work retreat" with Karen....we got to reminiscing about Tanzania and our recent trips to this country. First thing out of our mouths was just how very blessed we feel to be called to this mission field. Second thing as we sorted through notes, folders, writings, it became apparent that we kept finding the "brown envelope" that EVERYONE carries in Tanzania.
Here is what I mean. In our country, anything gets transported by some sort of bag. Papers get put into folders or binders which then go into a "briefcase" or computer. We have ways to get whatever paperwork we need to transport easily to its destination. Other items that need to get from point A to B go in any other sort of bag.
In Tanzania, people carry brown envelopes for everything. Our friend Elicana, came to meet us in March. He brought with him, a small notebook, his passport, and a few small papers and hidden under his Masai clothing was the "brown envelope" We asked him what he had in this envelope and he showed us that this goes with him anywhere he goes. It was very worn with the corners ripped and torn but it was his safe place for all his belongings.
Looking around and watching people that walk on the streets or in the market are brown envelopes. I imagine it is wonderful to have their "papers" tucked safe into this envelope? We just noticed that EVERYONE carries one with them in some capacity.
We decided in March that we should have "the brown envelope" as well so we purchased a couple to put our important documents in too. We put them in our purses and you know what? I always knew where my money was and where I could find my receipts.
Tanzanians have a wonderful idea with the "brown envelope" and we appreciate you showing us this small way to make our lives simple and uncomplicated. Keeping our "stuff" tucked into the brown envelope is now reminding us of our time in Tanzania and it is flooding back memories of how this important envelope is all they have!
We pray for you Tanzania everyday.
Blessings and peace ~
Here is what I mean. In our country, anything gets transported by some sort of bag. Papers get put into folders or binders which then go into a "briefcase" or computer. We have ways to get whatever paperwork we need to transport easily to its destination. Other items that need to get from point A to B go in any other sort of bag.
In Tanzania, people carry brown envelopes for everything. Our friend Elicana, came to meet us in March. He brought with him, a small notebook, his passport, and a few small papers and hidden under his Masai clothing was the "brown envelope" We asked him what he had in this envelope and he showed us that this goes with him anywhere he goes. It was very worn with the corners ripped and torn but it was his safe place for all his belongings.
Looking around and watching people that walk on the streets or in the market are brown envelopes. I imagine it is wonderful to have their "papers" tucked safe into this envelope? We just noticed that EVERYONE carries one with them in some capacity.
We decided in March that we should have "the brown envelope" as well so we purchased a couple to put our important documents in too. We put them in our purses and you know what? I always knew where my money was and where I could find my receipts.
Tanzanians have a wonderful idea with the "brown envelope" and we appreciate you showing us this small way to make our lives simple and uncomplicated. Keeping our "stuff" tucked into the brown envelope is now reminding us of our time in Tanzania and it is flooding back memories of how this important envelope is all they have!
We pray for you Tanzania everyday.
Blessings and peace ~
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Sunday June 12, 2011 YOU ARE INVITED.
Please join us at Shepherd of the Hills Church in Richfield Wisconsin at 6:30p.m. We are going to be sharing photo's and videos from our last mission trip, we will share with you how our projects are developing and how next year we will be leading groups with us to help serve the "least of the least" in Tanzania.
All are welcome, refreshments will be served and we hope to see you at this fun, casual evening.
Blessings and peace ~
All are welcome, refreshments will be served and we hope to see you at this fun, casual evening.
Blessings and peace ~
Sunday, June 5, 2011
Arusha Times News Article May 2011
By Happy Lazaro
SIMPLE HOPE DONATES FOOD TO ORPHANS
An American non-Government Organization knows as Simple Hope has donated food valued at Tshs.6.9 million to Matonyok Parents Trusts situated in Olasiti in Arusha City.
The donation was handed over by the Director of the Organization Mr. Charles Mpanda to the founders of the orphanage, Peniel Ndemno and Emmy Sitayo.
Mr. Mpanda, who is also a Councillor for Kaloleni Ward said that along with the food donation, the organization is also planning to construct a dormitory and to complete the construction of a classroom at the orphanage. Construction works will cost a total of Tshs 62 million.
The orphanage started in 2005 with few children and the number has risen to thirty five by May this year.
He said Simple Hope in Tanzania aims at assisting the orphans and the Hadzabe Community living on the shore of Lake Eyasi in Karatu District.
We Thank Charles Mpanda, Happy Lazaro and Peniel Ndemno and Emmy Sitayo for making this all work smoothly and effectively.
Blessings and peace ~
SIMPLE HOPE DONATES FOOD TO ORPHANS
An American non-Government Organization knows as Simple Hope has donated food valued at Tshs.6.9 million to Matonyok Parents Trusts situated in Olasiti in Arusha City.
The donation was handed over by the Director of the Organization Mr. Charles Mpanda to the founders of the orphanage, Peniel Ndemno and Emmy Sitayo.
Mr. Mpanda, who is also a Councillor for Kaloleni Ward said that along with the food donation, the organization is also planning to construct a dormitory and to complete the construction of a classroom at the orphanage. Construction works will cost a total of Tshs 62 million.
The orphanage started in 2005 with few children and the number has risen to thirty five by May this year.
He said Simple Hope in Tanzania aims at assisting the orphans and the Hadzabe Community living on the shore of Lake Eyasi in Karatu District.
We Thank Charles Mpanda, Happy Lazaro and Peniel Ndemno and Emmy Sitayo for making this all work smoothly and effectively.
Blessings and peace ~
Thursday, June 2, 2011
The Sculpture....
I want to share the story of this sculpture with you. I hope you are sitting back perhaps with a cup of coffee or your favorite soda.....this story truly is one that warms my heart every time I look at it.
In April when we were on our mission trip, we were taken to a group of women (a co-op) whereby the women, 35 total, make their best craft items to support themselves and their families. They have combined their resources and built a small craft house whereby they sell their goods. As I wandered around this store, I looked at what they could do with their hands ~ it was simply incredible. They have little in the way of monetary resources and yet they can make things out of trees, sticks, material, beads etc. I began to think about Simple Hope and who we are as an organization ~ I took a break from my "shopping" and went to sit under a tree and I imagined a circle of us together holding hands women and men....together, united by our bridge of love between our worlds. I saw they had resources to build and carve then it hit me. We were going to be in Tanzania 3 more weeks, would they be able to make something for Simple Hope?
I got out my notebook and pen and "sketched" my typical stick figures that I am so good at~LOL! I sat down with Eva (the head of this women's co-op) and asked her if there might be somebody that could make this sculpture I was thinking about? As I showed her my picture it was as if she knew! She looked then asked me a few questions and said she would report to the group and have it made! I thought to myself "did she really understand what it was I was thinking about - my stick people did she understand how they all stood in a circle with hands joined together?"
Eva said she would have it done before we left and I thought, well, this will be interesting to see how our two languages would work together.
On our way to the airport on our last day, Eva met us! We met at a restaurant whereby all roads came together. She was coming from the opposite direction as we did but nonetheless we met ~ and she presented this sculpture! My eyes wide open, my mouth dropped open I was speechless. This is exactly what I had in my mind! I am still thinking about how through my stick people that I drew, my Swinglish (English and Swahili) description that this is the end result.
This sculpture will always be our marquee item! This group will custom make this sculpture for anyone who might be interested. We will have 2 sizes available a 10" and a 14". If you are sincerely interested, please email me: simplehope1@gmail.com.
I will be returning to Tanzania in September and can pick up the sculptures when I return or they can be shipped to you in advance.
Thank you for letting me share this beautiful story ~ not only are you helping those that work so hard to earn a single dollar for their families but you are also showing your love for our Tanzanian brothers and sisters!
Blessings and peace ~
In April when we were on our mission trip, we were taken to a group of women (a co-op) whereby the women, 35 total, make their best craft items to support themselves and their families. They have combined their resources and built a small craft house whereby they sell their goods. As I wandered around this store, I looked at what they could do with their hands ~ it was simply incredible. They have little in the way of monetary resources and yet they can make things out of trees, sticks, material, beads etc. I began to think about Simple Hope and who we are as an organization ~ I took a break from my "shopping" and went to sit under a tree and I imagined a circle of us together holding hands women and men....together, united by our bridge of love between our worlds. I saw they had resources to build and carve then it hit me. We were going to be in Tanzania 3 more weeks, would they be able to make something for Simple Hope?
I got out my notebook and pen and "sketched" my typical stick figures that I am so good at~LOL! I sat down with Eva (the head of this women's co-op) and asked her if there might be somebody that could make this sculpture I was thinking about? As I showed her my picture it was as if she knew! She looked then asked me a few questions and said she would report to the group and have it made! I thought to myself "did she really understand what it was I was thinking about - my stick people did she understand how they all stood in a circle with hands joined together?"
Eva said she would have it done before we left and I thought, well, this will be interesting to see how our two languages would work together.
On our way to the airport on our last day, Eva met us! We met at a restaurant whereby all roads came together. She was coming from the opposite direction as we did but nonetheless we met ~ and she presented this sculpture! My eyes wide open, my mouth dropped open I was speechless. This is exactly what I had in my mind! I am still thinking about how through my stick people that I drew, my Swinglish (English and Swahili) description that this is the end result.
This sculpture will always be our marquee item! This group will custom make this sculpture for anyone who might be interested. We will have 2 sizes available a 10" and a 14". If you are sincerely interested, please email me: simplehope1@gmail.com.
I will be returning to Tanzania in September and can pick up the sculptures when I return or they can be shipped to you in advance.
Thank you for letting me share this beautiful story ~ not only are you helping those that work so hard to earn a single dollar for their families but you are also showing your love for our Tanzanian brothers and sisters!
Blessings and peace ~
Saturday, May 28, 2011
Simple Hope East Africa!
I am so excited to share with you that our International Non-profit organization has had the final paperwork signed and we are now Simple Hope East Africa. This has been a large task but I am extremely excited to welcome our Tanzania Board of Directors to our family.
Our Tanzanian Country Director (VIP) is Hon Charles Mpanda. Charles has helped us in a million ways and his heart is to serve his people. He understands the need of those that suffer and puts all those in front of himself. We are entirely blessed to have him on our team! Charles also has a wonderful safari business and I welcome you to visit his website as you are able ~ www.tanancientroutes.net He is very experienced in Tanzania! We recommend him to anyone who might be traveling to Tanzania. Charles is also a district councilor for the government of Arusha. He puts his district needs in front of his own and helps all those that he can! We are entirely blessed to have him on our team ~ we know God has a wonderful plan and we Thank him for Charles.
Next week I will showcase another one of our board members. We want everyone to have a special time on this blog!
Our food has been delivered to our orphanage Matonyak Parents Trust and we kindly Thanks Charles and Elicana for executing this for us. Truly, we know that the children are suffering and need solid nutrition! This food will change and save their lives.
Welcome Charles Mpanda and our formal board of directors for Simple Hope East Africa!
Blessings and peace ~
Our Tanzanian Country Director (VIP) is Hon Charles Mpanda. Charles has helped us in a million ways and his heart is to serve his people. He understands the need of those that suffer and puts all those in front of himself. We are entirely blessed to have him on our team! Charles also has a wonderful safari business and I welcome you to visit his website as you are able ~ www.tanancientroutes.net He is very experienced in Tanzania! We recommend him to anyone who might be traveling to Tanzania. Charles is also a district councilor for the government of Arusha. He puts his district needs in front of his own and helps all those that he can! We are entirely blessed to have him on our team ~ we know God has a wonderful plan and we Thank him for Charles.
Next week I will showcase another one of our board members. We want everyone to have a special time on this blog!
Our food has been delivered to our orphanage Matonyak Parents Trust and we kindly Thanks Charles and Elicana for executing this for us. Truly, we know that the children are suffering and need solid nutrition! This food will change and save their lives.
Welcome Charles Mpanda and our formal board of directors for Simple Hope East Africa!
Blessings and peace ~
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Finally!
I will begin posting once a week on June 1st! Life has been crazy and busy but so blessed by God! The ministry of Simple Hope is growing leaps and bounds!
My June 1st blog post will update you and share with you the latest adventures of life with Simple Hope.
I look forward to posting weekly ~ there are so many exciting things happening and the new month will bring a whole new look for this blog!
Thanks for your patience.
Blessings and peace ~
My June 1st blog post will update you and share with you the latest adventures of life with Simple Hope.
I look forward to posting weekly ~ there are so many exciting things happening and the new month will bring a whole new look for this blog!
Thanks for your patience.
Blessings and peace ~
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Link Below
Please use your mouse and shadow over the Simple Hope Mission 2011 and you will be directed to a video that was just made sharing just a glimpse into what we are doing in Tanzania.
Blessings and peace~
Blessings and peace~
Monday, May 2, 2011
Sunday, April 24, 2011
The future!!
After the month long mission trip to Tanzania ~ it is more clear that our projects have taken shape and that we have been shown the exact place to work!! This was my 4th trip to Tanzania ~ it was meaningful in so many different ways! Along with the fact that my prayer has continually been to help the "least of the least" it was simply on God's timing that it all happened! From the moment Karen and I landed... there was no doubt, "he" had the plan. We were quickly moved to our friends on Mt. Meru in the Shishtoni Parish region...whereby we met the orphaned children whom we could share our love and hope with. We were able to give them simple school supplies, games, books and even did a partnership book for the children at our local parish right here in Wisconsin. We worshipped with them at one of the preaching points and watched 10 babies get baptized. What a miracle this day was! After church we attended the auction whereby we were able to purchase the goat (and donate to a newly widowed lady who could not even feed one crumb to her 4 children) she now had a female goat to help her in her pain! We purchased 2 chickens also which were donated to 2 widowed women who had no hope for a future. It was in these moments that we knew God was leading us to serve the "least, last and perhaps lost" in this world. We spent a wonderful day with the compassion school children and shared a wonderful meal with Pastor Joseph and his wife. Upon our departure, we came through a village where a group of people gathered every Sunday to do a sort of "microfinance" program within themselves. Pastor Joseph asked if we wanted to meet them? Both Karen and I had talked about helping people in this sort of manner. As we stepped out of the car, we were greeted by the leader of this group. He explained that they would meet weekly, pool their money and share with each other as their needs became apparent. Some would use the money for health related problems, others would use to pay for education, some would use to feed their families but ALL of them would do whatever they could to "pay back" their debt. As he explained the "cash box" was empty and nobody had means to repay their debt. The group was uncomfortable, they were sad and knew they had to find a way to pay back what they had borrowed? But how could one do this? The crops were not plentiful, they lacked education and jobs were scarce? I could tell by the looks on their faces, they simply had no hope!
Karen and I decided that our Non-profit organization stood to help this group. Our NGO/Non-profit is called Simple Hope because we take simple methods and bring people hope. We donated about $40.00 to this group to give them a stepping stone. With this they were going to find a way to get themselves into a positive cash flow position!! We know we will hear about this group as we move forward, but they talked about possibly purchasing a donkey and a wagon or an ox and a cart. When their crops came in they could haul them to the market which was a long way from their homes. This would take care of carrying their crops on their heads and over their shoulders and would make life a lot easier for them! Being able to sell their crops would help the group as a whole as well as themselves individually! Our prayer with them before we left was to know that many were praying for them and even in the darkest days, God remains with them and will never abandon them!
The days and weeks ahead were always proof that God remained with us in all we did.
I will post more as I am able in the week ahead.
Blessings and peace ~
Karen and I decided that our Non-profit organization stood to help this group. Our NGO/Non-profit is called Simple Hope because we take simple methods and bring people hope. We donated about $40.00 to this group to give them a stepping stone. With this they were going to find a way to get themselves into a positive cash flow position!! We know we will hear about this group as we move forward, but they talked about possibly purchasing a donkey and a wagon or an ox and a cart. When their crops came in they could haul them to the market which was a long way from their homes. This would take care of carrying their crops on their heads and over their shoulders and would make life a lot easier for them! Being able to sell their crops would help the group as a whole as well as themselves individually! Our prayer with them before we left was to know that many were praying for them and even in the darkest days, God remains with them and will never abandon them!
The days and weeks ahead were always proof that God remained with us in all we did.
I will post more as I am able in the week ahead.
Blessings and peace ~
Monday, April 4, 2011
Simple Hope has an orphanage!
We have adopted a wonderful orphanage here in Arusha. The name is Matonyok Parents Trust (which means Put effort) The owner Ndemno and his wife Emmy, have worked very hard in their lifetime. They are wonderful Christian people who decided that they could help children who were orphaned and or otherwise Street Children. They have a humble home and have made it into a place where their love flows abundantly. The first time we visited Matonyok, we knew this was the place Simple Hope was needed. They have no other NGO's working with them and the local Tanzania churches share the very little they have and that provides a few tshillings a day and that is all!!
There are 30 children currently in the home being served by Ndemno and his wife. They have 4 bedrooms and all 30 children share these rooms! Ndemno and his wife sleep among the children. Ndemno's mother (105 yrs old) also stays there and sleeps in one of the four rooms. Yes, sleeping has a whole new meaning when there are 5-7 children per bed!
They are happy in the midst of their struggles. They have God in their heart and sing and dance his praises everyday.
Simple Hope will begin projects with this orphanage. We will be able to bring groups of mission minded people to help this center when they come to visit Tanzania.
We spent time distributing vitamins, school supplies, t-shirts, bible books and played a myriad of games with the children. As we were leaving for the day, they sang a beautiful song of Thanks and praise. All the children then said a prayer for Simple Hope as we were departing.
God has a very special plan and the grooming process to get to this center has been awesome! We feel prepared now to focus our energies on these children.
Will post photo's and more information as I am able.
We begin our travel around Tanzania tomorrow. It is so wonderful and special to have Libby and Christina here with us!!
Blessings and peace,
There are 30 children currently in the home being served by Ndemno and his wife. They have 4 bedrooms and all 30 children share these rooms! Ndemno and his wife sleep among the children. Ndemno's mother (105 yrs old) also stays there and sleeps in one of the four rooms. Yes, sleeping has a whole new meaning when there are 5-7 children per bed!
They are happy in the midst of their struggles. They have God in their heart and sing and dance his praises everyday.
Simple Hope will begin projects with this orphanage. We will be able to bring groups of mission minded people to help this center when they come to visit Tanzania.
We spent time distributing vitamins, school supplies, t-shirts, bible books and played a myriad of games with the children. As we were leaving for the day, they sang a beautiful song of Thanks and praise. All the children then said a prayer for Simple Hope as we were departing.
God has a very special plan and the grooming process to get to this center has been awesome! We feel prepared now to focus our energies on these children.
Will post photo's and more information as I am able.
We begin our travel around Tanzania tomorrow. It is so wonderful and special to have Libby and Christina here with us!!
Blessings and peace,
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Hope....
There are no words to describe how wonderful it is to be here in Tanzania again. We have been able to accomplish so much already.
My time is limited on the internet, but promise to write as much as possible upon my arrival home! We spent a couple days with our villages on Mt. Meru over the weekend. We were able to worship with 200 people, watched 10 children be baptized, attended the church auction after worship, purchased a goat and two "kuku's" We donated the goat to a recent widow who is so poor she cannot afford even one piece of food for her 4 children! This Goat is a female and will produce milk for her family. The chickens were given to 2 families who are also very poor. We met a group of adults from one of the villages where they had formed a "micro finance" co-op. They pool their money to help others in the village who need health care, food, water and other daily needs. Simple Hope donated 50,000tsh ( about $40.00 usd). They currently had less than $2.00 in their cash box! Bringing hope was the best thing we could have accomplished. We spent time learning about each of their needs and it is truly heartbreaking when the same story is repeated by each person yet, they live with love and hope and their faith in God. That is encouraging and enlightening to me.
We learned of an orphanage that needed our help. We are going to be distributing vitamins, shoes and school supplies to them today. We are working on "building a bridge of love between our worlds" This orphanage has no help! The government does not supply a single T shilling nor are there any NGO's supporting. A man and his wife have 30 children they are caring for. They have God in their hearts and know that if they do not help, these children will either die or be left to live on the street! We can connect many dots with this wonderful orphanage filled with love!
Our work will never be done, I just pray for strength and guidance from God above to help us to help as many as we are able. I am ready, willing and able to do this work!
Thank you for praying for me, Simple Hope and those we are serving. I cannot do this work without God and you!
Blessings and peace -
My time is limited on the internet, but promise to write as much as possible upon my arrival home! We spent a couple days with our villages on Mt. Meru over the weekend. We were able to worship with 200 people, watched 10 children be baptized, attended the church auction after worship, purchased a goat and two "kuku's" We donated the goat to a recent widow who is so poor she cannot afford even one piece of food for her 4 children! This Goat is a female and will produce milk for her family. The chickens were given to 2 families who are also very poor. We met a group of adults from one of the villages where they had formed a "micro finance" co-op. They pool their money to help others in the village who need health care, food, water and other daily needs. Simple Hope donated 50,000tsh ( about $40.00 usd). They currently had less than $2.00 in their cash box! Bringing hope was the best thing we could have accomplished. We spent time learning about each of their needs and it is truly heartbreaking when the same story is repeated by each person yet, they live with love and hope and their faith in God. That is encouraging and enlightening to me.
We learned of an orphanage that needed our help. We are going to be distributing vitamins, shoes and school supplies to them today. We are working on "building a bridge of love between our worlds" This orphanage has no help! The government does not supply a single T shilling nor are there any NGO's supporting. A man and his wife have 30 children they are caring for. They have God in their hearts and know that if they do not help, these children will either die or be left to live on the street! We can connect many dots with this wonderful orphanage filled with love!
Our work will never be done, I just pray for strength and guidance from God above to help us to help as many as we are able. I am ready, willing and able to do this work!
Thank you for praying for me, Simple Hope and those we are serving. I cannot do this work without God and you!
Blessings and peace -
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Wrapped in prayers and covered in Grace.
It has been a blessing to be here in Tanzania. We have had a very peaceful time.... We have met with several women's co-ops to see how as a microfinance business they get along and support their families and villages. We have been able to purchase items from them to help "lift them up" and we know that God has a big plan for us of "building a bridge of love between our worlds" We have found peace and comfort in new friendships and we had a very successful "meeting of the minds" to grow Simple Hope forward in our country of Tanzania.
We have traveled to Nairobi Kenya and were able to do Simple Hope along the way.
Tomorrow we will head up Mount Meru to worship with our friends at Shishtoni then deliver God's message through a vacation bible school.
I hope God continues to watch our every step and guide us in the right direction for doing his work.
Thank you for your prayers.
Blessings and peace,
We have traveled to Nairobi Kenya and were able to do Simple Hope along the way.
Tomorrow we will head up Mount Meru to worship with our friends at Shishtoni then deliver God's message through a vacation bible school.
I hope God continues to watch our every step and guide us in the right direction for doing his work.
Thank you for your prayers.
Blessings and peace,
Monday, March 21, 2011
1/2 Way to Tanzania
Had a great flight from Chicago, USA...arrived in Amsterdam for a quick breakfast of croissant and water....next is the flight to Tanzania...see you when I am on the ground and serving the least of the least.
Thank you for your prayers and blessings...I am humbled!
Blessings and peace~
Thank you for your prayers and blessings...I am humbled!
Blessings and peace~
Friday, March 18, 2011
On my way...
I am excited for the upcoming weekend. We have a wonderful community of "Heroes" helping us "pack food" for Tanzania! This Saturday March 19th,, 2011 from 8:00a.m. to 2:00p.m. EVERYONE is invited to help. One hour of your day and you will make a sizable difference in the starvation that the children and adults face in Tanzania. If you haven't signed up yet, please just come..Walk In's are welcome!!! Crosspoint Community Church W380N6931 N Lake Dr Oconomowoc, WI 53066.
Also, Sunday Karen and I will be leaving for Tanzania!! We are excited to continue to "build a bridge of love between our worlds" Please keep us in your prayers as this is the only way we can and will have a successful trip. On April 1st, my oldest daughter Libby will join us along with a very dear friend and Board member of Simple Hope Christina. This will be the first "international" trip for both of them. Please pray they make it to Tanzania safe and without any complications!!
Next blog post will take place from Tanzania!!
Blessings and peace~
Also, Sunday Karen and I will be leaving for Tanzania!! We are excited to continue to "build a bridge of love between our worlds" Please keep us in your prayers as this is the only way we can and will have a successful trip. On April 1st, my oldest daughter Libby will join us along with a very dear friend and Board member of Simple Hope Christina. This will be the first "international" trip for both of them. Please pray they make it to Tanzania safe and without any complications!!
Next blog post will take place from Tanzania!!
Blessings and peace~
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
MARCH 19th, 2011 Oconomowoc, Wisconsin
Please sign up to help us pack food on Saturday March 19th, 2011 at Crosspoint Community Church in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin. The food that is packaged on this day will be shipped to Tanzania Africa (the 3rd poorest country in the world) where we will meet and deliver to our villages in central Tanzania.
You will work with a team of 8 to assemble fortified rice meals which will be packed into boxes and put in a container and received in Tanzania. These meals will feed the Hadzabe Tribe in Central Tanzania as well as a leper community. These are just one of millions that don't eat everyday. YOU will help us to help them!
Please register online at: www.simple-hope.org or email simplehope3@gmail.com. Any questions you may call" 262-569-9919.
Blessings and peace~
You will work with a team of 8 to assemble fortified rice meals which will be packed into boxes and put in a container and received in Tanzania. These meals will feed the Hadzabe Tribe in Central Tanzania as well as a leper community. These are just one of millions that don't eat everyday. YOU will help us to help them!
Please register online at: www.simple-hope.org or email simplehope3@gmail.com. Any questions you may call" 262-569-9919.
Blessings and peace~
Sunday, March 6, 2011
What a wonderful weekend!
Simple Hope is entirely blessed! We had a couple wonderful opportunities this weekend to "connect the dots" again. We were honored and humbled to be asked to speak at the "upwards basketball" program in Oconomowoc this weekend. Every "half time" show was an opportunity to open the doors for a community to come together to help us at our "packathon" which will take place on March 19th, 2011 at Crosspoint Church from 8:00a.m. until 1:00p.m. We saw hundreds of people coming to watch their children, grandchildren, brothers and sisters play basketball~ truly a wonderful community.
Today (Sunday) we had another awesome opportunity to teach our "water ministry" at Christ our Savior church in Sussex! Again, we know that this world is not about US...but about how we must all work together to "connect dots" Its through these connections that we can make big things happen...and not for us but on behalf of all those that suffer in this world.
Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your communities...together we will "build a bridge of love between our worlds"
Blessings and peace ~
Today (Sunday) we had another awesome opportunity to teach our "water ministry" at Christ our Savior church in Sussex! Again, we know that this world is not about US...but about how we must all work together to "connect dots" Its through these connections that we can make big things happen...and not for us but on behalf of all those that suffer in this world.
Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your communities...together we will "build a bridge of love between our worlds"
Blessings and peace ~
Friday, March 4, 2011
This weekend!!
Come and join us at Crosspoint Church in Oconomowoc for Upward Basketball!! Simple Hope will be presenting at the "halftime" show and we will be taking registrations for the "packathon" on Saturday March 19th, 2011. Our goal is to have 1,000 volunteers at our "pack" Please come and meet us and register at the same time!
Sunday we will be at Christ our Savior Church to teach their Sunday School kids about our Clean water systems ~ they have raised enough money to have us take 2 brand new systems with us on our upcoming trip to Tanzania.
What a thrill to be serving God's people both here and abroad.
Blessings and peace~
Sunday we will be at Christ our Savior Church to teach their Sunday School kids about our Clean water systems ~ they have raised enough money to have us take 2 brand new systems with us on our upcoming trip to Tanzania.
What a thrill to be serving God's people both here and abroad.
Blessings and peace~
Monday, February 28, 2011
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Thank you Oconomowoc Rotary Club.
We had a wonderful meeting with the Oconomowoc Rotary Club on Monday. They were so gracious with their time to let us speak about and on behalf of our non-profit organization.
Thank you Oconomowoc Rotary ~ you are truly a blessed group of community minded people.
Blessings and peace~
Thank you Oconomowoc Rotary ~ you are truly a blessed group of community minded people.
Blessings and peace~
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Beyond the borders
I had a wonderful opportunity to have tea yesterday with my wonderful partner Karen and our dear friend who is from Tanzania yet has lived here in Wisconsin for over 7 years. She had met another wonderful lady who has recently come here to the USA from the Congo.
Both Karen and I were so excited to meet our friend from Tanzania. We share so much as "dada's" sisters and understand each other even though we were born in different cultures and have all walked down a different path.....until now.
We had just settled in to have our tea and enjoy the wonderful cooked banana's and pasties that our dear friend Elli had made for us. The chai was wonderful! Francine (who is from the Congo) shared a bit of her story with us. She has only been in the USA for just 19 months. She was taken away from her home and her family to gain political asylum. She had been in a administrative position. Unfortunately, the "opposition" party did not like that she was doing this work for their government so they decided to make her life horrible. Francine has two children ( a son 17 yrs old and a daughter 4 yrs old) She had to leave with her oldest son and had no idea where she would end up. Her son was also being tormented by the military, in fact she shared with us that his wrist had been bitten off and is still not functioning properly. We could see in her eyes that she was a strong women...wanting only to care for her family and yet not being able to do so because of the unrest in her country.
I asked her where her daughter was and she said she had to leave her with her grandmother. Francine's Mom was safe in the congo...and she had no option to bring her daughter with her. If you can imagine, she is now in a country she knows nothing about. The education she had in the congo is not helpful here. We have technology ~ they do not. We have roads for driving ~ they do not. We have electricity ~ they have minimal. We have stores, groceries, cars, buildings. We have education for all ~ they do not. I think you can see where I am going with this. What she came here with was very little and yet a desire to better herself, keep her son safe and try to build a life with freedom. She explained that until she is able to work and earn a living, her Mom and daughter will have to remain in the Congo ~ without her. Can you imagine the emotional difficulties? Her daughter constantly asks her when will I see you mommy?? What can she say? One day.....One day...
So the four of us talked about the great things in the USA and yet our nation is so poor. Even in the midst of Francine's turmoil she had family, her church and the love of neighbors. Why? In these nations although they don't have "things" they have love and community. Everyone takes care of each other ~ when there is an illness, a death, sadness or happiness EVERYONE comes together! Nobody is better than their neighbor ~ everyone is equal. Elli explained to us that at a local church in Tanzania began its Sunday service by gathering all parishioners together. The Pastor would ask that if anyone was mad a another person in the church that they please take each others hands go outside to speak about their differences and come back into the church with a clean heart. Can you imagine? She said that it was amazing how this Pastor could see the hearts of all that were there changing...for the better.
What would our country look like if we had this kind of peace? Where people would put their differences aside, take each others hands and walk peacefully with each other? If materialism could be put aside, if Sunday's were made for family and friends, and everyone would gather for a big meal just because! Would this make us a stronger nation?
May your borders be brought down to open what really matters ~ family, love and friendship.
Blessings and peace ~
Both Karen and I were so excited to meet our friend from Tanzania. We share so much as "dada's" sisters and understand each other even though we were born in different cultures and have all walked down a different path.....until now.
We had just settled in to have our tea and enjoy the wonderful cooked banana's and pasties that our dear friend Elli had made for us. The chai was wonderful! Francine (who is from the Congo) shared a bit of her story with us. She has only been in the USA for just 19 months. She was taken away from her home and her family to gain political asylum. She had been in a administrative position. Unfortunately, the "opposition" party did not like that she was doing this work for their government so they decided to make her life horrible. Francine has two children ( a son 17 yrs old and a daughter 4 yrs old) She had to leave with her oldest son and had no idea where she would end up. Her son was also being tormented by the military, in fact she shared with us that his wrist had been bitten off and is still not functioning properly. We could see in her eyes that she was a strong women...wanting only to care for her family and yet not being able to do so because of the unrest in her country.
I asked her where her daughter was and she said she had to leave her with her grandmother. Francine's Mom was safe in the congo...and she had no option to bring her daughter with her. If you can imagine, she is now in a country she knows nothing about. The education she had in the congo is not helpful here. We have technology ~ they do not. We have roads for driving ~ they do not. We have electricity ~ they have minimal. We have stores, groceries, cars, buildings. We have education for all ~ they do not. I think you can see where I am going with this. What she came here with was very little and yet a desire to better herself, keep her son safe and try to build a life with freedom. She explained that until she is able to work and earn a living, her Mom and daughter will have to remain in the Congo ~ without her. Can you imagine the emotional difficulties? Her daughter constantly asks her when will I see you mommy?? What can she say? One day.....One day...
So the four of us talked about the great things in the USA and yet our nation is so poor. Even in the midst of Francine's turmoil she had family, her church and the love of neighbors. Why? In these nations although they don't have "things" they have love and community. Everyone takes care of each other ~ when there is an illness, a death, sadness or happiness EVERYONE comes together! Nobody is better than their neighbor ~ everyone is equal. Elli explained to us that at a local church in Tanzania began its Sunday service by gathering all parishioners together. The Pastor would ask that if anyone was mad a another person in the church that they please take each others hands go outside to speak about their differences and come back into the church with a clean heart. Can you imagine? She said that it was amazing how this Pastor could see the hearts of all that were there changing...for the better.
What would our country look like if we had this kind of peace? Where people would put their differences aside, take each others hands and walk peacefully with each other? If materialism could be put aside, if Sunday's were made for family and friends, and everyone would gather for a big meal just because! Would this make us a stronger nation?
May your borders be brought down to open what really matters ~ family, love and friendship.
Blessings and peace ~
Monday, February 14, 2011
Thank you Brookfield Wisconsin!
We had an awesome day on Saturday! The Brookfield Central Key Club did an awesome job getting the word out about our food "packathon" that was held at Brookfield Central High School on Saturday February 12, 2011!
Everyone that came to help us pack food did an awesome job!! There were hundreds of children and adults that helped Simple Hope!
We are humbled and blessed by your help!! Thank you a million percent!
Blessings and peace~
Everyone that came to help us pack food did an awesome job!! There were hundreds of children and adults that helped Simple Hope!
We are humbled and blessed by your help!! Thank you a million percent!
Blessings and peace~
Friday, February 4, 2011
A Rat in its Glory!!
I posted about my friend from the USA who became a missionary in Tanzania. I am blessed to speak with him almost everyday. He shares his stories of what he is seeing, experiencing and journaling. I feel so lucky because it is through his voice I hear the joys, sorrows and often time surprises!!
As you may know, my passion to feed the hungry in Tanzania has been my driving force from the beginning. I have found ways to do this by enriching people from the USA to help me to help others. We are so blessed in our world and the ones we serve remain often times without hope until our pallets of food arrive. They are then reminded that hundreds upon thousands of people truly do care and want them to be nourished.
Well, my friend was telling me that he had purchased a few grocery items from the local market the other day. He purchased a loaf of bread, some peanut butter and some fruit. He had put in a rather long day working to build a small building with the nationals who were assigned to help. It was HOT, extremely windy and he had been doing physical labor all day. After the sun was down, he began walking home. He was so tired, but happy. He had spent an incredible day doing something that was going to be a wonderful blessing to those in the village. He was flooded with recent memories of how he laughed with the nationals who were speaking swahili ~ yet they all spoke the same language. It was a wonderful day...with no breaks.
He had almost reached his room and he remembered the bread and peanut butter. He was SO excited to take a shower, put on his comfortable clothes and relax with a piece of bread. As he walked into his room he was greeted by a rat!! YES a rat..who had found his loaf of bread!! The rat WAS NOT in anyway going to move until he finished HIS dinner. My friend stared at him and with his generous heart allowed his friend the RAT to carry on and be nourished. He said it broke his heart because he was the skinniest rat he had ever seen.
Can you imagine the look on the rats face when he spotted that loaf of bread??? I am sure it is much like the children and adults we feed with our fortified rice meals. Their hearts begin to leap up for joy when they see the pallets of food arrive ~ it is heaven if only for that one meal.
I guess each and everyone of us can understand that when something or someone needs to be fed and we are already fed ourselves, we just let it happen. I am proud of my friend who just let his little rat friend enjoy his meal...for now his belly is fed too.
Blessings and peace
As you may know, my passion to feed the hungry in Tanzania has been my driving force from the beginning. I have found ways to do this by enriching people from the USA to help me to help others. We are so blessed in our world and the ones we serve remain often times without hope until our pallets of food arrive. They are then reminded that hundreds upon thousands of people truly do care and want them to be nourished.
Well, my friend was telling me that he had purchased a few grocery items from the local market the other day. He purchased a loaf of bread, some peanut butter and some fruit. He had put in a rather long day working to build a small building with the nationals who were assigned to help. It was HOT, extremely windy and he had been doing physical labor all day. After the sun was down, he began walking home. He was so tired, but happy. He had spent an incredible day doing something that was going to be a wonderful blessing to those in the village. He was flooded with recent memories of how he laughed with the nationals who were speaking swahili ~ yet they all spoke the same language. It was a wonderful day...with no breaks.
He had almost reached his room and he remembered the bread and peanut butter. He was SO excited to take a shower, put on his comfortable clothes and relax with a piece of bread. As he walked into his room he was greeted by a rat!! YES a rat..who had found his loaf of bread!! The rat WAS NOT in anyway going to move until he finished HIS dinner. My friend stared at him and with his generous heart allowed his friend the RAT to carry on and be nourished. He said it broke his heart because he was the skinniest rat he had ever seen.
Can you imagine the look on the rats face when he spotted that loaf of bread??? I am sure it is much like the children and adults we feed with our fortified rice meals. Their hearts begin to leap up for joy when they see the pallets of food arrive ~ it is heaven if only for that one meal.
I guess each and everyone of us can understand that when something or someone needs to be fed and we are already fed ourselves, we just let it happen. I am proud of my friend who just let his little rat friend enjoy his meal...for now his belly is fed too.
Blessings and peace
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Imagine that?
Talking with my good friend today who is now living in Tanzania Africa, was wonderful. To hear his energy brought excitement to me and yet their was a tone of despair. My friend is a man who traveled with us last spring when we were both part of a medical mission team. He was helping with clean water projects and I was helping with the eye care clinic. We would meet up at the end of the day, share the daily stories about what he did, who he met...and of course I would talk about all the patients that came to find a way to see a bit more clear.
After we both arrived home, he called me and said: "I miss Tanzania, the people, their generosity, their hope and most of all the love" I had to agree because this is the same feeling that has led me to doing this work. There was a tone in his voice that was different. I knew that he was being "called" to go back and sure enough two months ago, he announced that he quit his job, sold all of his belongings and was heading back. What is so great about this story is that he and I are able to talk via skype everyday. He is able to share with me what he is experiencing! He is my/our eyes and ears on the ground.
Just today, he shared with me that yesterday was NOT a happy day. I asked him why? He responded: "The children I met at a local feeding center came to receive their meal, but I noticed that this whole group of children were very busy with a toy" he was observing and wondering what was SO great about this "ball" so he went over and picked it up...it was a ball made out of rubber gloves that the children explained they found in the garbage next to a local hospital. He unraveled this ball and saw that these gloves were used by doctors/surgeons. That the gloves were NOT clean but covered with things that these children should not be playing with and yet, they had no idea...and were sad when he took their "toy" apart. Imagine that?
Next, he went into the feeding center where he observed yet another group of kids playing with what looked like a sling shot. They were tossing things back and forth. He went with a National who was accompanying him. They asked the kids to let them see what they were playing with...the kids turned over their sling shots only to find out they were used condoms. These children found them laying on the street where nearby prostitution takes place...imagine that?
He broke down on our phone call today. I understood his pain, his disbelief of what really goes on beyond our safe "American walls" His eyes are now wide open! I have to say, I know that feeling, I have been there, I have seen this but now to hear the stories again reminds me that the little bit we do to bring hope to these children and adults...may save their lives in one way or another.
Hug your children today for they are safe and loved...and pray for those in Tanzania that wish they had just a single ball or toy that is safe.
Blessings and peace~
After we both arrived home, he called me and said: "I miss Tanzania, the people, their generosity, their hope and most of all the love" I had to agree because this is the same feeling that has led me to doing this work. There was a tone in his voice that was different. I knew that he was being "called" to go back and sure enough two months ago, he announced that he quit his job, sold all of his belongings and was heading back. What is so great about this story is that he and I are able to talk via skype everyday. He is able to share with me what he is experiencing! He is my/our eyes and ears on the ground.
Just today, he shared with me that yesterday was NOT a happy day. I asked him why? He responded: "The children I met at a local feeding center came to receive their meal, but I noticed that this whole group of children were very busy with a toy" he was observing and wondering what was SO great about this "ball" so he went over and picked it up...it was a ball made out of rubber gloves that the children explained they found in the garbage next to a local hospital. He unraveled this ball and saw that these gloves were used by doctors/surgeons. That the gloves were NOT clean but covered with things that these children should not be playing with and yet, they had no idea...and were sad when he took their "toy" apart. Imagine that?
Next, he went into the feeding center where he observed yet another group of kids playing with what looked like a sling shot. They were tossing things back and forth. He went with a National who was accompanying him. They asked the kids to let them see what they were playing with...the kids turned over their sling shots only to find out they were used condoms. These children found them laying on the street where nearby prostitution takes place...imagine that?
He broke down on our phone call today. I understood his pain, his disbelief of what really goes on beyond our safe "American walls" His eyes are now wide open! I have to say, I know that feeling, I have been there, I have seen this but now to hear the stories again reminds me that the little bit we do to bring hope to these children and adults...may save their lives in one way or another.
Hug your children today for they are safe and loved...and pray for those in Tanzania that wish they had just a single ball or toy that is safe.
Blessings and peace~
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Updates!
Simple Hope has been busy. Here are some simple updates!
1.) We have successfully shipped our Menomonee Falls High School "Packathon" food. We have abilities now to do our own shipping and we can offer this service to anyone needing to share "container" space with us! All it takes is a phone call or email to let us know!
2.) We are preparing for the "UPCOMING PACKATHON" at Brookfield Central High School on February 12, 2011! The hours will be from 9:00a.m. until 1:00p.m. If you and your friends/family want to come out and help us pack fortified rice meals, send us an email! WE would LOVE to have you be a part of this exciting day!! Special recognition goes out to the Key Club and their partnership with us!!
3.) We are equally as excited to prepare for our "Crosspoint church" Packathon on March 19th, 2011. Crosspoint will host the event and ALL our welcome to join us on this day!! The packing hours will begin at 8:00a.m. and the last shift will end at 1:00p.m. Please send us an email if you would like to help us pack food.
4.) We are looking for prayer partners to join us on a daily/weekly/monthly basis. If you, your church or organization would like to prayer for us to further our work here and in Tanzania we would be humbled and grateful.
Our email for sign ups is: simplehope3@gmail.com. You can also visit our website at: www.simple-hope.org.
We appreciate each and everyone of you. We are humbled by your graciousness everyday.
Until next time~
Cheers!
1.) We have successfully shipped our Menomonee Falls High School "Packathon" food. We have abilities now to do our own shipping and we can offer this service to anyone needing to share "container" space with us! All it takes is a phone call or email to let us know!
2.) We are preparing for the "UPCOMING PACKATHON" at Brookfield Central High School on February 12, 2011! The hours will be from 9:00a.m. until 1:00p.m. If you and your friends/family want to come out and help us pack fortified rice meals, send us an email! WE would LOVE to have you be a part of this exciting day!! Special recognition goes out to the Key Club and their partnership with us!!
3.) We are equally as excited to prepare for our "Crosspoint church" Packathon on March 19th, 2011. Crosspoint will host the event and ALL our welcome to join us on this day!! The packing hours will begin at 8:00a.m. and the last shift will end at 1:00p.m. Please send us an email if you would like to help us pack food.
4.) We are looking for prayer partners to join us on a daily/weekly/monthly basis. If you, your church or organization would like to prayer for us to further our work here and in Tanzania we would be humbled and grateful.
Our email for sign ups is: simplehope3@gmail.com. You can also visit our website at: www.simple-hope.org.
We appreciate each and everyone of you. We are humbled by your graciousness everyday.
Until next time~
Cheers!
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Upcoming Mission Help!
Our next trip to Tanzania will be coming soon!!! We have two very special projects that we would like to accomplish before we leave for Tanzania.
Project #1 ~ We would like to take up a collection of chewable vitamins (not gummy) for our leper and Hadzabe Communities. The children and adults lack nutrition/food on a daily basis and if we can give them a little bit of help with these vitamins, they will be physically and mentally stronger and this burden will be lifted from their lives. We ask that you send your donations to us: Simple Hope PO Box 4 Menomonee Falls, WI 53052
Project #2 ~ Shoes... can you imagine not having transportation? Can you imagine using your own two feet to take you everywhere you go? What would you do if you had no shoes for your feet? This is what our villages face on a daily basis! Mama's carrying their babies walking with firewood on their head in bare feet. We can stimulate Tanzania's economy and purchase basic shoes with your donation of $5.00. Would you help their soles/souls? We will take all money that is donated and purchase as many pair of shoes as we can upon our arrival in Tanzania. You can mail a tax deductible donation to us at: PO Box 4 Menomonee Falls, WI 53052 OR visit our website and donate online at www.simple-hope.org.
You are helping us to "build a bridge of love between our worlds" and we are humbled by your generosity.
Until next time~
Cheers!
Project #1 ~ We would like to take up a collection of chewable vitamins (not gummy) for our leper and Hadzabe Communities. The children and adults lack nutrition/food on a daily basis and if we can give them a little bit of help with these vitamins, they will be physically and mentally stronger and this burden will be lifted from their lives. We ask that you send your donations to us: Simple Hope PO Box 4 Menomonee Falls, WI 53052
Project #2 ~ Shoes... can you imagine not having transportation? Can you imagine using your own two feet to take you everywhere you go? What would you do if you had no shoes for your feet? This is what our villages face on a daily basis! Mama's carrying their babies walking with firewood on their head in bare feet. We can stimulate Tanzania's economy and purchase basic shoes with your donation of $5.00. Would you help their soles/souls? We will take all money that is donated and purchase as many pair of shoes as we can upon our arrival in Tanzania. You can mail a tax deductible donation to us at: PO Box 4 Menomonee Falls, WI 53052 OR visit our website and donate online at www.simple-hope.org.
You are helping us to "build a bridge of love between our worlds" and we are humbled by your generosity.
Until next time~
Cheers!
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