African-ish

So basically, my kids are the most awesome people I know. Their faith kicks my faiths butt. I have stepped on SL soil before. I have read a ridiculous amount of books and other research. I have talked with people here, got advice from friends and family, met with pastors and even went fake shopping at several markets. My kids, on the other hand, totally “pulled an Abraham”. (yes, you can use that) With blind faith they followed their parents to a place they have never been. On every plane they had to catch they delighted in the TV’s, the ability to lay back their own seats and the “amazing airplane food”. I watched their hearts hurt as they left family and friends but I was completely blown away when they bravely wiped their tears, smiled and said “I can’t wait to go to Africa.”

Before we took the kids into the center, I was a wreck. We all know Anna does not enjoy being touched and Ella tends to freeze and not speak. So I warned them all and gave them a safe word, then I could swoop in and rescue them. I just knew this would be crazy overwhelming. Then I stood back and watched my kids amaze me again! There were gobs of kids holding their hands, hugging them, asking their names and trying to braid their hair. I saw Aubrey light up when Betty grabbed her hand. Anna was, literally, knocked over by the love shown to her in the form of a bear hug by Isata. They were glowing! Even Ella found a few friends to play tag with. They can’t wait to see and do everything. What was I worried about again?

I look around and see all the change they are experiencing; their lives are not the same. Last week it was Phineas and Ferb and some string cheese, this week……we hear the mosque up the hill playing the call to prayer, the goats in the neighboring compound and let us not forget the former presidents peacocks (do you cook those the same as turkeys, cause seriously). They on the other hand, see so much fun and adventure; they are excited about visiting the kids for worship tonight and can’t wait to see what Auntie Marie makes for dinner tonight. Oh to be like my children.

Now, I’m sure you are wondering what crazy things my children have said and done. Well, there really are so many! The best so far, Ella came to us and said, “I really like the kids, but I wish they would quit speaking Spanish to me. Don’t they know I don’t speak Spanish?” Krio isn’t even on her radar! There is Anna and all her crazy faces she thinks she is making on the sly while trying new foods. Of course, we see the scowl! Then Aubrey announced that she wanted “American extensions”, cause they are related to continents, of course. So, when asked to give a quote-Aubrey: I often smell armpits. Anna: Africans are much louder than Americans. Ella: This place is a little freaky. All in all, stuff freaks them out a lot less than us.

Hopefully, there will be a few pics to come soon! Much love from SL!