Nkoko

 As I opened the garage gate on a Saturday morning, out of nowhere, a chicken flew out.  I have no idea how it got into our yard, since our house has a full fence around it.  After several attempts to chase it to our gate and send it on its way, I gave up.  I didn't want it to die from starvation, so I fed it crackers and a banana.

When Monday rolled around, I showed Eugene the chicken.  The first thing he said was, "NKOKO," which means "chicken" in Kinyarwanda.  He picked it up and then let me hold it; it was quite an entertaining morning.  Then I told him that he should take it home with home = free eggs!

At the end of the day, I helped Eugene tie Nkoko's legs together so it couldn't easily escape in transit to his house.  Then he put him in a sack and headed home!

And that's the end of the story...

Part 2 Begins

After 3 lenghty flights, an extended layover in Doha, the development of a sore throat on the final flight, and lost luggage, it was such a delight to see some of my students waiting for me at the airport.  Feeling rough and looking gross didn't keep me from jumping up on down when I saw them and from truly appreciating their warm welcome.

It didn't end at the airport.  A handful of students surprised me at my house! I loved catching up with them; it felt like no time at all had passed.

Getting a big hug from Eugene, our "house guy," and seeing his warm smile also was a highlight.  He even had a fresh vase of flowers handpicked straight from our backyard waiting for me in my room.

The next morning, Gisore had a student show him where I live, and he was sitting on the couch, waiting to greet me, as soon as I woke up.

I'm thankful for the precious relationships I have in this lovely country!  Looking forward to Part 2 and excited to see what the Lord has in store!