Celebrating my (78th) birthday, meeting with Julie-Anne, checking on Saviour, visits from Joseph and Godfrey

Dear friends,

I was back at work on Monday morning, Peace called into the office to collect and take our three monthly returns to the Ministry of Gender’s offices. Petra, Tresor and I sorted out the weekly expenses and other paperwork. The lady who has been seconded to us for an internship has not yet arrived! We were expecting her on Wednesday but she still hasn’t shown an appearance!

Wednesday was my birthday and when I arrived at work we joined employees of John Paul II Justice & Peace Centre in the Chapel for the baptism of baby Basil, a month old, whose mother is the director’s secretary. It was a lovely service, happy birthday was sung to me as well and following this we enjoyed an informal lunch in the conference room. Father James and Alfred the director joined us. After speeches and good wishes to Basil, his parents, and myself, I led the dancing to the cutting of my birthday cake – Peace, Petra and I laughed so much, we really enjoyed ourselves – no work done! I left the office early as I was going to Ian’s for supper, when I arrived there was an unexpected party with balloons, banner and amazing food and 10 guests! It was such a surprise and really enjoyable, looking over the night skyline of Kampala! Saviour was there so it was good to catch up with him – he is doing well at MCC, I saw him there on Friday morning.

‘Trust in the Lord with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways submit to him,
and he will make your paths straight.’
Proverbs 3 v5/6

Thursday was another bank holiday, for local elections. I went into the centre of Kampala and met up with a lady from church. She is from the UK and volunteering at Sanyu Babies Home for a few months. Julie-Anne is a singer/songwriter and has written a song for the babies’ home – you can watch on the YouTube link below. She also does trauma counselling.

Watch Julie-Anne’s video

This week I have heard from Victor who is fine and hoping to meet up with Peace and I next week, also from Augustine, Sula and Emma.

On Saturday afternoon I went to George’s Place and took another birthday cake for the boys to enjoy. Shortly after I arrived Joseph called in, he is working at Entebbe (plumbing), Godfrey was also there. After lunch we had cake and sodas before walking to Sky Beach Hotel for the boys to have a swim and play football. It has been really hot every day this week. On the way back, Tresor and I met Ronald who is working locally in a shop. I then drove Musumba and Joshua to the shops as they needed some cream for ‘pimples’! Musumba is already planning what he will be wearing for the school prom. he and Kasita will both be starting in Senior 4 in February. The young boys are all fine, Robert is such a happy boy and always smiling and messing around – he has quite an infectious laugh – everyone likes him. Prayers please as we plan to take in more boys in the next few weeks.

Thank you for all your love and support. The boys are really good fun and there is a happy atmosphere in the home and very little upset.

Love and prayers.

Jane x