Sleep Living

Sleep living, I am not sure if that is actually a phrase that I am allowed to use, but I am thinking that it is the phrase that best describes where Bryan and I are at right now. We have been going non stop since July4th between work, volunteers and teams, last Saturday was the only day we did not have something going on, but then we had a beautiful Dutch family showed up for a tour of Beautiful Gate. The volunteers we had, Cassi and Andrew were a lot of fun to host and we had such a nice time with them. Then we had the Holland Christian Team and that was an amazing experience full of tears, laughter, painting, panic (well at least Hannah, Anna and Olivia got to see me panic), heartfelt moments to cherish, and just loads of fun with the kids and staff here. Then we had the team from the United Kingdom which was also full of laughs, fears, bonding with babies, painting, games and surprisingly even make-overs (NEVER expected that in Africa). Now the volunteers have all gone (except Paige but she is our new daughter so she doesn't count) and the teams are done till October, so we have a little break.
I am refreshed in my spirit from new friendships that have been formed. I am awed by the love and strength of many volunteers as they stretched themselves out of their comfort zones, and were blessed because of it. My children have a library full to overflowing and it brings me tears, and the Beautiful Gate children have also been blessed beyond measure by new books and toys. My heart is full to overflowing with gratitude and love for many who have done so much for Beautiful Gate and also for us. We know that we are far from home, but we know we have not been forgotten. Please also know that we have not forgotten any of you either. I have about 50 facebook and email messages that I need to return or send, and every night I have been meaning to do it, but I just can't think straight and I am surprised I was even able to get this post written. So while my heart is full, the rest of me is a bit worn out from the last 6 weeks. Thanks for being patient with me and good-night!!!!!