I have put off doing this blog post because I am at a loss for words. What my heart is feeling at this point is painful to put in to words. We are nearly 12 months deep into our stay...in fact, we have only 6 days remaining in Zambia. We're at the point of sorting through our stuff and deciding what is coming back home with us and what will stay. We're getting piles sweet letters from the kids here, telling us they love us and will miss us when we go.
A few Sundays ago the pastor announced that we will be going to the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium on July 23, for Sports Day and a soccer match between the oldest Grace boys and the Mwaiseni guys. He mentioned that it was going to be our last weekend here, so it would also be a good bye to the Deleeuws. Sitting in the back of church, all the heads turned to look at us, and I was overcome. Smiles and kind eyes from kids that we've spent the last year with was just too much. I couldn't hold back the tears.
That has kind of been the state of my heart, off and on, for the last bit here. A breaking at the thought of leaving, but warmth with the time and memories still to be squeezed in. I can't say it enough, that the work being done at Seeds of Hope is incredible. This place is filled to the brim with wonderful, wonderful kids (and staff!). Obviously, we are looking forward to seeing our friends and family back home, and are excited for some camping (and hiking :)) before school starts up in September.
I'm going to keep this post short. There have been some requests for more updates on what is happening on the farm, or questions about how things are going here, but this is all I have the mental energy for at this point. Please keep us in your prayers. Pray that we will enjoy our remaining time, and pray for strength as we face leaving so many beloved people behind. Please pray that our flights home will go smoothly and safely. Thanks for all the wonderful messages of support that have been sent our way! We are feeling so supported and loved!
Love, Renae
