tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17364866101064104922024-03-13T12:19:36.690-07:00SWAZI sentcultivating kids and crops in the kingdom of swazilandTommy and Mandihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899142525380985396noreply@blogger.comBlogger74125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1736486610106410492.post-25763067387174229832018-12-10T10:02:00.000-08:002018-12-10T10:02:33.341-08:00Liyana the Movie: Coming to the Davis Varsity<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Liyana the movie is showing at the Davis Varsity, opening December 14th. This is a film crafted by the young people we lived and worked alongside at New Life Homes in Swaziland. It is also beautifully done and has received noteworthy reviews. Ironically, we are in Swaziland and will miss the Davis showing. I'll post the full description and link below. If you live in or around Davis, you don't want to miss it!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">LIYANA the movie is coming to the Davis Varsity! LIYANA is a genre-defying documentary that tells the story of five children in the Kingdom of Eswatini (formally Swaziland) who turn past trauma into an original fable about a girl named Liyana who embarks on a perilous quest to save her young twin brothers. The film weaves her animated journey together with poetic documentary scenes to create an inspiring tale of perseverance and hope.</span></div>
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<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.davisvarsity.net%2Fcoming-soon%2Fliyana%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR0prmd11DIhuNHzZKLzCUWtDYldKRfMhfksGoD0efMG751RAZLsvBWZ6Zo&h=AT2m_j322icVgmEta23LXPoZIDN6lmdbnnLOcfqZT3lv2X_IUcFhbqEGSiOr6-_72rdnQEGTvLfNislfNbc9w9cNE7N1ncSfk-s0i2g8ybMRxLhqRb-IilDSZhXfE2PT2oN8ew" style="font-family: inherit;">http://www.davisvarsity.net/coming-soon/liyana/</a></div>
Tommy and Mandihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899142525380985396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1736486610106410492.post-4878807152527830532018-12-03T19:46:00.000-08:002018-12-03T19:46:20.253-08:00We're Headed to Swaziland<div style="text-align: center;">
SO… you thought that we were done. An old <span style="font-size: x-large;">afterthought</span>, like that cranberry sauce and stuffing you took down two weeks ago, when you have already moved on to trees and lights and cookies. Well, we are done in a way and in some ways, we are just <span style="font-size: x-large;">getting started</span>.</div>
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When we left Swaziland, we were invited to formally <span style="font-size: x-large;">join the board</span> of African Leadership Partners, the stateside organization for New Life Homes. It is an honor to be part of a board which is composed of quality people with diverse skill sets. We met with the board in early August and extensively discussed the<span style="font-size: x-large;"> future</span> of New Life Homes. Local staffing has already changed since we left two years ago, and there are other transitions that will be happening soon. Mindful of the changes in our family, including a <span style="font-size: x-large;">new baby</span> arriving soon, we asked God if this might be the right moment to return to Swaziland. We heard a resounding <span style="font-size: x-large;">“yes”</span> despite our personal trepidation around traveling with tots. </div>
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So, we are jumping on the plane (Avery and Paige included) and headed to Swaziland for a few weeks with these goals in mind:</div>
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1. For the children at New Life Homes who have all experienced some form of trauma in their life, <span style="font-size: x-large;">consistency</span> is paramount. They encounter many visitors that enrich their lives, but few visitors return. Our goal is to maintain our existing relationships with the children, while reinforcing their <span style="font-size: x-large;">value</span> as children of God.</div>
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2. The farm has seen several <span style="font-size: x-large;">leadership changes</span> over the past two years and they are anticipating more changes in the coming years. Our goal is to meet the new leaders and staff, <span style="font-size: x-large;">encourage</span><span style="font-size: large;"> and </span><span style="font-size: x-large;">challenge</span> them in their roles, and identify ways we can <span style="font-size: x-large;">support</span> them in the future.</div>
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3. As Peter and Mary Jean continue to advance toward retirement, the need to fill the role of “project director” has been difficult. Our goal is to further <span style="font-size: x-large;">develop a plan</span> for this transition, and meet some folks interested in supporting this role.</div>
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With that, please <span style="font-size: x-large;">pray</span><span style="font-size: large;">.</span> We are grateful to have employers who recognize the importance of this trip, and friends who celebrate this opportunity to reconnect with those we love dearly. The logistics are <span style="font-size: x-large;">hectic</span> and the plane ride with Paige is going to be <span style="font-size: x-large;">hairy</span>, but those details are all temporary. We return December 21st and we look forward to giving you a full (and concise) report of the trip. Hopefully it will provide you some <span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-size: medium;">entertainment</span> </span>while you take down more cookies and cider.</div>
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We are very grateful for all of you,</div>
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Tommy, Mandi, Avery, and Paige</div>
Tommy and Mandihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899142525380985396noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1736486610106410492.post-54595063671316841962016-11-14T06:00:00.002-08:002016-11-14T06:00:49.698-08:00We’ve Been Keeping A Secret<div style="text-align: center;">
Since January, we’ve been hosting the teens for a weekly gathering. </div>
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During our first couple years in Swaziland we tried launching a community-based youth group, but it really wasn’t the intimate setting we were looking for. Early this year we introduced a special time just for the high school students living at New Life Homes. We found what we had been looking for. The perfect mix of intimacy, depth, and familiarity.</div>
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We may be missionaries, but the topics for our weekly gathering don’t include God, the Bible, or even Jesus. We talk about sex. And yes, at the beginning it was very awkward.</div>
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We have learned that sex is a taboo topic here in Swaziland, as it is in much of the world. However, in Swaziland, the stakes are much higher. People are contracting HIV from their sexual habits at an alarming rate. The purpose of our meetings is to help the teens think proactively about their sexual decisions and make wise choices now and in the future. </div>
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We have been using Cru’s CrossRoads curriculum (<a href="http://crossroadslink.org/">crossroadslink.org</a>), which uses character-based education to teach adolescents the benefits of abstinence. We talk about everything from social pressure, to STIs and birth control. We also tell lots of personal stories, which adds just enough humor to the environment. It has become a weekly highlight for Tommy and me. We have been so impressed by the teen’s honesty and their willingness to ask questions and discuss difficult topics. They know a lot already, but are desperate for a forum to make sense of it all.</div>
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We took the teens on a canopy tour to celebrate our time together and make some memories with them. It was a fantastic day. Please join us in praying for this group and for the young men and women they are becoming.</div>
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Thank you for praying for us, especially during this challenging time of transition. Tommy is stateside right now, and I (Mandi) am coping with single parenthood for 11 days (not that I’m counting). It is also a very busy time at school, with the grade seven students writing their national exams, and organizing curriculum and supplies for the next year’s teachers. We’ve begun packing, sorting, and finding homes for many of our possessions here in Swaziland. I’m so thankful for a small house! We have four weeks until our departure. Our house may be ready, but our hearts still have wrapping up to do. </div>
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<br /> Tommy and Mandihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899142525380985396noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1736486610106410492.post-14735275064977700662016-10-18T12:25:00.000-07:002016-10-18T12:25:14.361-07:00Coming Home<div style="text-align: center;">
Technically, we were supposed to write this blog post two years ago. And then a year ago. But now it is really time, and as much as we look forward to returning it will be so hard to leave Swaziland!</div>
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We <strike>like</strike> love our life here. We wake up in the mornings and sip tea while enjoying the beautiful sunrise over the surrounding hills.<br />
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We read a lot of books and we never see any streetlights at night. We've developed many friendships that will leave holes in our hearts. We have jobs we love. We have become comfortable in our surroundings and can readily anticipate life here.<br />
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In many ways, Swaziland feels like home.</div>
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So why are we leaving? Sometimes this question is even difficult to us to answer.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">So here's the simple answer:</span></div>
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We are leaving to allow Swazi nationals the opportunity to step up and assume responsibility. We came here to learn, train, and equip. Mandi and I have many responsibilities at New Life Homes and our continual presence here presents the risk of creating more dependency. We want other people to step up into positions that they have the knowledge and the skills to fill. </div>
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This process of handing over is not easy, nor is it comfortable, and at times it can be really frustrating. We do not know how exactly how this transition is going to work. We are trusting that God will continue to provide the wisdom and personnel (both locally and abroad) that is needed to fuel New Life Children’s Homes.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Here are some key things that we want you to know:</span></div>
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1. We will be coming back to the U.S. (permanently) on December 15, 2016.</div>
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2. Our mission organization (African Leadership Partners) will continue to provide our personal salary for three months (through March) while we settle, and thus we are asking our financial supporters to continue their regular support until then.</div>
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3. We do not know where are going to end up yet (more on this below).</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Please pray for the following:</span></div>
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1. New Life Homes. We are about to go into a massive stage of transition with the farm and the school. Please pray for wisdom, energy, and the right people to step up.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCBeERnPcIhNATSywpb8YS6JsNU3VORtpHIHqVWN9giAqTfa17vhZlBvU4trpujUDx742JeBEpjmYFQyKsMTqSL6QW4HhjT3px0UQAyUWSe9f0iEyYPQAWx0WiDiKRLBY6Cb5BwhYODCvP/s1600/farm__723.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCBeERnPcIhNATSywpb8YS6JsNU3VORtpHIHqVWN9giAqTfa17vhZlBvU4trpujUDx742JeBEpjmYFQyKsMTqSL6QW4HhjT3px0UQAyUWSe9f0iEyYPQAWx0WiDiKRLBY6Cb5BwhYODCvP/s320/farm__723.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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2. Pray for Peter and Mary Jean Kopp. Out colleagues and dear friends who founded New Life Homes will be taking on numerous additional responsibilities in our absence.<br />
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3. Jobs. I (Tommy) have been working for the past few months to find a good fit but have not yet be able to finalize anything--primarily due to the distance. I have a brief visit to the U.S. scheduled for interviews and transition preparation. If you do hear of any interesting positions opening up, please feel free to contact me (<a href="mailto:tommy.bottoms@gmail.com">tommy.bottoms@gmail.com</a>). Thanks!</div>
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4. Our transition. We have a lot to sort out here and when we get stateside. Jobs, housing, insurance, vehicles, and much more. All while preparing for the arrival for baby #2 in early February. </div>
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We will leave with mixed emotions. Though, a few things are certain:<br />
1. We gave it our best and it's been an incredible adventure.<br />
2. We have been consistently encouraged by God working through you!<br />
3. It really is time to come home.</div>
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With Love,</div>
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Tommy, Mandi, and Avery<br />
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<br />Tommy and Mandihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899142525380985396noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1736486610106410492.post-60599432920081763252016-10-02T11:26:00.000-07:002016-10-18T11:43:47.927-07:00An African Adventure<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In August, we took a family vacation to Victoria Falls. If you are not aware of Vic Falls, they are big (355 feet high and 1 mile wide) and awesome. We drove more than 1000 miles through South Africa and Zimbabwe. We eventually arrived at our destination, and spent about 4 hours total at the falls and the rest of the time running after Avery. Here are a few pics.</div>
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It is the dry season, so the falls are not at their peak.</div>
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There is an insane amount of mist that arises from the falls. At certain times of the year, you cannot see anything. We did manage to get quite soaked while we were there.<br />
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One afternoon, we walked from our hotel to the Victoria Falls Hotel. It is a pretty neat, colonial-style hotel that has hosted the British royal family. This is where Avery had high tea to celebrate her first birthday. We left her and went and took a nap. Joking. We did feel very English. </div>
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Mandi is quite fond of her.</div>
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So am I. </div>
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We went swimming every day. </div>
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This is right before Avery pooped in the pool. Seriously. </div>
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She really liked drinking the pool water. We did not encourage that behavior. This is a pre-poop photo as well. Sorry for the legs in the pic. Not my choice.</div>
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We visited a crocodile farm. I instructed Avery not to tease the crocs. That is a picture of a croc with a human arm hanging out of it. The farm had more than 10,000 crocs on site. Really cool place. And yes, I wore Crocs to the farm.</div>
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Avery holding a baby croc.</div>
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BIG crocs being fed. This is the first time we have ever seen Avery scared. We think it is good that she has a fear of crocs. </div>
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We went on a river boat cruise on the Zambezi river. It was very beautiful.</div>
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Saw lots of elephants, crocs, kudu and monkeys. The two and a half hour boat ride was a bit long for Avery (and us), but we had a great time nonetheless. </div>
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Overall, it was a great family excursion. Not easy and sure, and in hindsight we would have done some things differently (like fly instead of drive), but who cares now? Fun times. Thanks for your support and for loving us even when we take time to get away.</div>
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<br />Tommy and Mandihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899142525380985396noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1736486610106410492.post-75994699530625774412016-08-17T03:07:00.005-07:002016-10-18T11:43:34.768-07:00Visitors = New Friends<div style="text-align: center;">
This is the first summer we’ve been in Swaziland and haven’t had mission teams visit from the U.S. We look forward to these groups, who always find unique ways to serve the children at New Life Homes. We really enjoy their companionship as well.</div>
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However, at the beginning of the year we decided that we would not host any teams in 2016. Peter and Mary Jean Kopp, our colleagues and New Life Homes directors, have been on a much-deserved furlough since April, and the increased workload and decreased human resources can be straining. In fact, here's what we've resorted to in the childcare department:</div>
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Just because we haven’t had teams doesn’t mean we haven’t had visitors. We’ve had lots of day visitors, a few weekend visitors, and a couple that even joined us for their honeymoon!</div>
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A group joined us for the day from Germany. They came from all over the country and were touring different community projects to learn about HIV impacts and how communities are meeting associated needs. They enjoyed our pork, chicken, and broccoli, and shared gummy bears for dessert.</div>
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A church from Durban, South Africa visited for the weekend, and kept the kids busy with sports, crafts, and lots and lots of food. They pulled out some of the biggest pots we’ve ever seen, and cooked seriously fiery food. They brought toiletries for the homes, supplies for the school, and lots of love for the kids.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2DAt8CgLgSplgXAxNqMl2wbrlLEaZZTHj0z3kqaGI7fjnukXYa1qKhjIkecXUopcWZHiKgRhAqBWrAWTgh9Po_7hm_Q_n3fd0pk12FVF4yzMj6ooXOqyJQ3f2WcrCv7DE91DeObqkHovu/s1600/IMG_3252.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2DAt8CgLgSplgXAxNqMl2wbrlLEaZZTHj0z3kqaGI7fjnukXYa1qKhjIkecXUopcWZHiKgRhAqBWrAWTgh9Po_7hm_Q_n3fd0pk12FVF4yzMj6ooXOqyJQ3f2WcrCv7DE91DeObqkHovu/s320/IMG_3252.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Tiersa Chaffin, whom we worked alongside for two years, brought her new husband, Tim Rogers, to the farm. Tim is a talented soccer player, and he put on some soccer workshops for the kids. Tiersa helped the kids connect with their sponsors, and enjoyed spending quality time with them. It was a lovely visit!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWcyLxk2jiF4j8OalTkRpcj0KTyQ2tlwK-0auSh3H1xuMctYcYx1Ml5JU6FSBY6pYsP8O9KUzFbuLMri67bhwTOnsoopjsTKLeltNx3UEVhypqh_Id1y9GUy3KtP7ZpIBw512B3SAixqmB/s1600/farm__173.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWcyLxk2jiF4j8OalTkRpcj0KTyQ2tlwK-0auSh3H1xuMctYcYx1Ml5JU6FSBY6pYsP8O9KUzFbuLMri67bhwTOnsoopjsTKLeltNx3UEVhypqh_Id1y9GUy3KtP7ZpIBw512B3SAixqmB/s320/farm__173.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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We’ve also hosted local pastors, agricultural leaders, and government officials. Often these folks show up unannounced. </div>
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We’re proud to be part of something that draws people from all over the world. In many ways, New Life Homes is a model for organizations striving to meet the needs of those affected by HIV/AIDS. Visitors often comment positively on our family-based care model and efforts to be self-sustaining. We think it’s pretty great, too!</div>
Tommy and Mandihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899142525380985396noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1736486610106410492.post-1537323690009981612016-04-13T07:54:00.000-07:002016-10-18T11:43:24.178-07:00Thank Goodness!<div style="text-align: center;">
Another school year is underway in Swaziland. </div>
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In fact, our first term is almost over. I can't believe it! This school year has been different than others. The biggest difference is having a tiny sidekick. For a couple hours each day, Avery joins me at school. She gets absolutely giddy when I strap her into the baby carrier and we head toward school. She brings much joy to all the students and teachers. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqNVMqY19b8i1NC2FWuOykMD1ectrUNlbo1EixpV91dUCH-nfJ6dBh_cCPVceezRGlUhCqnDq6Ff0UZ_pFVLs-RFTFWw3sJRmjSXGuw8k4HGo_L1Qfi_O-PpybOnbZ5Bj37bUQdjcaOeeR/s1600/image-3.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqNVMqY19b8i1NC2FWuOykMD1ectrUNlbo1EixpV91dUCH-nfJ6dBh_cCPVceezRGlUhCqnDq6Ff0UZ_pFVLs-RFTFWw3sJRmjSXGuw8k4HGo_L1Qfi_O-PpybOnbZ5Bj37bUQdjcaOeeR/s400/image-3.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Before school starts she plays a few games of peek-a-boo, is jostled and bounced, and of course her outfit is thoroughly inspected by all of her friends. </div>
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Another positive change is the addition of a competent, cheerful, and loving teaching assistant. Her name is Goodness. She has been such a blessing to me! She encourages and works with struggling students throughout the day. She marks almost ALL my papers. She stays after school to clean up, close up, or meet with students when I have to run home. She has made my transition to a working mommy SO much easier, and I am so thankful for Goodness! </div>
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She has become a good friend and her daughter and Avery enjoy spending time together, too. </div>
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Although she's not formally trained as a primary school teacher, I'm praying that Goodness will feel confidant enough to take my place next year. She has all the qualities of a good teacher, and I'm working with her on adopting additional techniques and teaching strategies. Please pray with me! </div>
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I have 14 students this year, and a wide range of talents and abilities. Thank you for praying for their growth: academically, spiritually, and socially. </div>
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<!--EndFragment-->Tommy and Mandihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899142525380985396noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1736486610106410492.post-57683115489141254452016-01-25T10:20:00.001-08:002016-10-18T11:44:10.407-07:00When Something Clicks<div style="text-align: center;">
Avery is a pretty calm and a very sweet baby. We are often asked, does she ever cry? The answer is yes. Though she has the ability to turn on the bright side when she leaves the house, there are times when Mandi and I long for the day when she is able to regulate her emotions. I find myself wondering when these certain steps to maturity will be taken. Though my overwhelming desire is that she stay small, cute, and giggly, maturity is a beautiful thing. This has become evident here on the farm over the past few months.</div>
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Over the past many years, the farm has hired the high school-aged students to work during the school break. They love the extra income and we love keeping their minds and bodies busy. Up until a few months ago, their work was helpful, but sometimes created more work for us than what we received in return. <b>And then something clicked.</b> Over this summer break, we have employed a group of boys who have become mature in ways that we did not know was even possible. They have played a huge role in not only getting the daily duties sorted, but have brought forth creative solutions to challenging problems. They have constructed and repaired, conducted all the breeding (natural and using artificial insemination) and record keeping for the pig operation, and completed a significant amount of the tractor work. And they have done everything with a great attitude. I would have never imagined some of the kids here being so interested in the interworkings of the farm. But now, they are having visions of what their future holds. High school students who want to go check pigs at all hours of the night? It is like a dream come true.</div>
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Anyone who has been to New Life Homes will say that the best part about this place is the kids. It is even more enjoyable now when I can look at a rarely-but-sometimes-fussy baby and hope that one day she will mature like the young men and women growing up here at New Life Homes.</div>
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Enjoy some pictures of these strapping young men in action:</div>
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Tommy and Mandihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899142525380985396noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1736486610106410492.post-19729241040705593012015-11-07T05:13:00.000-08:002015-11-07T05:15:27.925-08:00Our Village<div class="MsoNormal">
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We welcomed Avery Grace Bottoms into the world on 27 August… just over two months ago. In those two short months, she has brought much joy and fullness to each and every day.</div>
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Parenthood brings its own set of challenges, and such a steep learning curve! We are so lucky to be surrounded by people who adore Avery. They have helped us adapt by sharing their time, cuddles, wisdom, and love.</div>
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As one of the moms said earlier this week, Avery will soon visit her “really, really” home. She will also meet her “really” family for the first time. In the meantime, we’re feeling so grateful for our farm family. We’ve heard it takes a village to raise a child. This is our village, and we couldn’t do it without them!</div>
Tommy and Mandihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899142525380985396noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1736486610106410492.post-64771868738401413382015-08-16T12:03:00.001-07:002015-11-07T05:14:11.835-08:00Packing A Fresh Perspective<div style="text-align: center;">
I’ve noticed that guests have the awesome ability to help us see where we live and what we do with a fresh perspective. Last month, we had a short-term team from University Covenant Church visit us at New Life Homes. They enthusiastically joined us in our life here, from the mundane to the exceptional—and helped us recapture a fresh perspective about ministry in Swaziland. </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Nick Bua, Mandi, Christine and Andres Zarate, Ellie Kammert, Amber McIntyre, Tommy, and Rod Layman</span></div>
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From the get-go they were intent on showering the children with tangible love. They brought soccer cleats, shirts, and gear for all the kids. I think we’ve mentioned that soccer is practically an obsession here. The kids were absolutely delighted.</div>
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One of the most exciting projects they organized was the purchase and construction of a new play structure for the children’s homes. We’ve had the same structure for at least ten years, and it was beyond the point of repair. Check out the wonderful gift they left us!</div>
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One of our visitors, Andres, was kept very busy with welding projects. He even trained a few of the older children and employees in some basic skills. After working some incredibly long days, it was amazing to see what he was able to accomplish!</div>
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The team completed signs that have been on our “to-do” list for over a year. Now, when you drive by New Life Homes, you know exactly what we have for sale. The signs turned out really well, and we’ve already had new customers because of them.</div>
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Some of the ladies kept the children busy after school and on the weekend with crafts and dance classes. They learned everything from ballet to hip-hop. I also appreciated help in my classroom, with team members teaching lessons, listening to children read, and marking papers.</div>
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We finished their two-week stay here with a weekend trip to Hlane, one of Swaziland’s game reserves. Tommy and I especially enjoyed getting to spend some downtime with them. What a special group of people! They worked selflessly and really encouraged us with their love, support, and heart for missions. </div>
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Did I mention they even brought an entire baby shower with them? We were blown away by the gifts they carried with them, from our family at home and our “extended” family at UCC. We felt really blessed!</div>
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Tommy and Mandihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899142525380985396noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1736486610106410492.post-73770366934705326182015-05-31T11:01:00.002-07:002015-11-07T05:15:27.929-08:00Cape Town Getaway<div style="text-align: center;">
After being in Swaziland for more than two years, we finally made it to one of our bucket-list destinations: Cape Town. Since our holidays typically revolve around picking up agricultural supplies in Johannesburg, we relished the opportunity to relax and explore such a beautiful region. We just wanted to share a few pictures to prove we made time to get away for a few days!</div>
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A view from the plane...</div>
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Visiting Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was held for 18 years.</div>
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Boat ride back to Cape Town from Robben Island, with Table Mountain in the distance.</div>
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View from the top of Table Mountain, looking East.</div>
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Meeting some penguins along the Cape.</div>
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Cape Point</div>
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Hiking up to the top of Cape Point, with the Cape of Good Hope in the background.</div>
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Kirsetenbosch Gardens</div>
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Wine and cheese tasting in the Stellenbosch Winelands. </div>
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Visiting American friends from Swaziland who recently relocated to Stellenbosch. We had a wonderful time visiting them and their sweet kiddos in their new home.</div>
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We feel so lucky to live within a short, 2-hour plane ride from Cape Town. There are few cities that stand out as being so culturally interesting (for better or worse), geographically diverse, and absolutely beautiful. The food was exceptional, and we even got to eat at a Mexican restaurant!</div>
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Tommy and I both agreed we felt more refreshed and relaxed than we have in a LONG time. </div>
Tommy and Mandihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899142525380985396noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1736486610106410492.post-38768453948098343872015-05-24T04:36:00.001-07:002015-05-24T04:37:00.704-07:00The Value of Quality<div style="text-align: center;">
Perhaps my most enjoyable weekly indulgence in Swaziland is enjoying an ice-cold glass of Schweppes’ <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Schweppes-Dry-Lemon/147487738640">Dry Lemon</a>. </div>
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The second most anticipated indulgence is reading Farmer’s Weekly. A South African publication, it is an excellent mixture of technical, market, and political information. It even has a few sections that Mandi enjoys, most notably, The Hitching Post personal ads.</div>
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I recently read an article that shared tips for investing in business opportunities in Africa. One of the nuggets shared was that people, even if they are living in poverty, value quality. In fact, it gave several examples of companies that have actually increased the quality of their products when entering into lower per-capita economies.</div>
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In Swaziland, we have also seen how people value quality. Let me give you three quick examples from the New Life Homes’ Farm. </div>
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<b>Broilers:</b> Typically, in this part of the world a broiler chicken is grown out for 5 weeks (from hatching until harvest). If taken care of properly, that would yield a bird that weighs 1.8kg (about 4lbs). We have realized that people like a bigger bird and we grow ours out to 6 weeks, weighing 2.2kg (4.8lbs). We charge more, create a more comfortable margin, and make customers happy. </div>
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<b>Pigs:</b> We have made every effort to improve genetics over the past two years. We believe that if we can provide high quality pigs consistently to the market, we will never have a difficult time selling the pigs or demanding a higher price. So far, we have found both to be true. Recently, we have begun to artificially inseminate (AI) some of our stock using semen from top producers. We are excited about these opportunities, even if it makes our current boar incredibly frustrated (as he is temporarily unemployed).</div>
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<b>Goats:</b> You probably remember us buying a goat about two years ago, although for more of a hobby than a serious enterprise. Since then, we’ve learned that the market is massive and the supply is low and inconsistent. In many rural communities, there is frequent inbreeding within herds and animal health is poorly maintained. To make a long story short, New Life Homes now has 30 goats, half of which are Swazi indigenous goats (hardy with less meat) and half are Boer goats (less hardy, but with lots of meat). People are clamoring to buy our goats, especially the Boer goats, because of the quality. We sell these goats as breeding stock, which helps rural farmers increase their profitability over time. </div>
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We are surrounded by people who live in poverty. Yet they still have eyes that allow them to recognize quality. The future for these enterprises is bright because we maintain a high standard of quality. The margins are good and the people on the farm (moms, kids, workers) are really excited about the direction we are headed. This is a huge win. Please continue to pray for wisdom and guidance as we seek to provide for these precious children.</div>
Tommy and Mandihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899142525380985396noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1736486610106410492.post-41912092736763274612015-04-17T08:22:00.000-07:002015-04-17T08:22:30.914-07:00A Cultural Adventure<div style="text-align: center;">
Things have been a bit of a whirlwind lately, but having just finished our last school day for a few weeks, I (Mandi) find myself taking refuge from the chilly weather and finding time to finally get an update out.</div>
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We took a school trip this week to the Swaziland National Museum, King Sobhuza Memorial Park, and Cuddle Puddle Hot Springs (yes, that's the real name). We had a great time, and here are some pictures to prove it!</div>
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During part of the tour, our guide told the kids that Swazis believed in ancestors and pray to them. Lihle asked the guide, "Do you believe in ancestors?" The guide responded that she did, and then posed the same question to Lihle. Lihle responded, "No, I'm a Christian so I pray to Jesus Christ." I was pretty proud of my bold little student!</div>
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The students were able to sit in the late King Sobhuza's classic car.</div>
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My growing belly has been a constant source of curiosity and in some cases, concern. Upon donning my "swimming costume" the kids exclaimed, "But you're too fat!" I assured them that my entrance would still leave a *little* bit of water in the pool.</div>
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It's been a long week at school, and I had a particularly frustrating encounter with one of our teachers today. Dealing with conflict in an open way is very counter-cultural here. However, I feel like it was resolved and I continue to pray that the teachers we work with would understand we are for them, yet we will still hold them accountable to do excellent work.</div>
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Thank you for praying for us. Stress has been higher than normal lately, and we really appreciate your commitment to pray that we would receive the wisdom, patience, grace, and joy we need on a daily basis!</div>
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Tommy and Mandihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899142525380985396noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1736486610106410492.post-4947894361320642662015-02-22T09:01:00.003-08:002015-05-24T04:37:08.328-07:00A New Baby<div style="text-align: center;">
So we have some news. Our goat herd is expanding. We are expecting at least three baby kids in the next week! We are now up to twenty goats. The pigs are doing well. The broccoli and cauliflower is growing. We have almost hit the mid-term break at school and the learning thus far has been very high quality. And in August we are expecting another baby to arrive. Not an animal, but our very own human baby!</div>
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To say that we are thrilled is a massive understatement.</div>
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We have been meeting with a great doctor in Nelspruit, South Africa and the facilities and the care seem really top-notch. Mandi is doing really, really well. The weather here will start cooling down with the arrival of fall in a few weeks, which will be really nice. We're starting to think about how to decorate the corner of our bedroom and what African name we will give the baby (just kidding!).</div>
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To those that are worried about our child being left off the ballet for the 2066 presidential elections, let me remind you that we still fall well within the bounds of the Natural Born Citizen Clause that was put forward by Alexander Hamilton and company. The rest of you know that we actually do not care at all if our future child is president of our country (or their local FFA chapter, for that matter). We just want them to feel loved!</div>
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That is all for now. We appreciate your friendship, love, and support. <br />Oh yeah, and the baby is due on August 31. </div>
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Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17203711390884300307noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1736486610106410492.post-19231587216111492952015-02-01T05:14:00.001-08:002015-02-01T05:14:47.822-08:00Backpack Blessings!<div style="text-align: center;">
Last week, the children of New Life Homes returned to school after their 7-week summer vacation. As a teacher, the beginning of the school year involves long hours spent at school preparing, but also involves excitement and anticipation. For young students, there’s also a great deal of excitement, which was confirmed by daily visitors peeking through windows to monitor the progress of school preparations.</div>
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The children at New Life Homes also had something extra to be excited about this year—new backpacks! While home in the US, University Covenant Church organized a backpack drive and was able to provide each of the 42 children with a new backpack filled with school supplies. </div>
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A few days before school started, we gathered together and gave the children their new bags. They were so excited! Not only were the bags “cool” (boys) and “beautiful” (girls) they were also much better quality than the backpacks we can find here in Swaziland. They marveled at the contents, which were completely above and beyond what they anticipated receiving.</div>
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A few days later I was at one of the houses watching a movie with the kids. One of the boys, KK, was sitting on the sofa with his bag in his lap with his arms around it—for the whole movie! What a perfect illustration for what a precious gift these bags were! </div>
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The gift also communicated an even more important truth to the children—you are loved. People around the world, who have never even met you, care for you and love you just because you are a child of God. Now THAT is a generous gift! On behalf of the kids, we share a sincere thank you for this special gift.</div>
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Please continue to pray for our school as we proceed as a private organization. The Ministry of Education has been neither cooperative nor communicative. We are praying to keep our government-assigned Siswati teacher for the year. Tommy and Peter are also adjusting to their increased involvement in the classroom. Despite some of the challenges, we feel much affirmation that we are doing the right thing for the long-term sustainability of the school. We do value your prayers in this area!</div>
Tommy and Mandihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899142525380985396noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1736486610106410492.post-26641344163415976862015-01-12T20:42:00.002-08:002015-01-12T20:51:35.381-08:00The HIGHS of Fur-LOWS<div style="text-align: center;">
Tomorrow marks the end of a seven week visit to the US.</div>
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I always imagined missionaries laying poolside and sipping tropical drinks on their furloughs, earning some much needed rest from their non-stop, ministry-filled lives. </div>
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Obviously, those missionaries have better sense then to venture home in December!</div>
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Although we've had some moments of rest (including an awesome three night stay in Napa Valley), we've been surprised at how busy our time here has been. Here are some highlights:</div>
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<b>Preaching at University Covenant Church (UCC) in Davis</b>, where we were able to share about some of the challenges we've faced as well as the hope that keeps us committed to our calling in Swaziland.</div>
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If you'd like to hear the message, click <a href="http://www.ucov.com/content.cfm?id=213&download_id=484" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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UCC also hosted an evening reception, which drew almost 100 people who came to hear about what our day-to-day life is like there.<br />
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<b>Training at UC Davis. </b>Tommy spent several days at UCD learning new skills, including how to artificially inseminate sows and process carcasses into different cuts of meat. (It's REALLY unfortunate we don't have pictures of this one!) </div>
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<b>Visiting churches like Escalon Presbyterian Chruch, Christ Lutheran Church Fortuna, Antioch Church on the Rock, and members of the missions committee from Hydesville Community Church. </b>These churches offered us opportunities to share about out time, and we were so encouraged by people's love for New Life Homes. We're glad you agree with us that God is really at work!<br />
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<b>Connecting with folks at Bidwell Presbyterian Church in Chico</b>. Each year they organize an alternative gift fair which allows people to support organizations, including New Life Homes. People purchased everything from pigs to school uniforms, all to be sent as a financial donation to New Life Homes. It is an incredibly well-organized event which raises approximately $30,000 for local and international ministries.</div>
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<b>Spending time with family, friends, and supporters. </b>For the first time in two years, we spent Thanksgiving and Christmas with family! One of the sweetest joys was spending time with nieces and nephews who have grown so much in the time we've been away!<br />
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We head back to Swaziland tomorrow. We will certainly cherish the special times we had with family and friends. Thank you for blessing us with your love, availability, wisdom, hospitality, support, and care. As much as we've loved being "home" we are also eager to get "home" to Swaziland as well.<br />
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Tommy and Mandihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899142525380985396noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1736486610106410492.post-69566422261232802912014-10-13T11:04:00.002-07:002014-10-13T11:04:56.540-07:00Taking the Plunge<div style="text-align: center;">
Not every day on the mission field is a joyous one. In fact, over the last two years we have faced our share of sorrows. Today, however, was a wonderful reminder that God is moving.</div>
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During our weekly chapel time in the children’s homes, we have been learning about things Christians believe. A few weeks ago, our colleague Mary Jean spoke about baptism. She shared with the children the importance of making your commitment to Christ known in a public way, just as Jesus did. Some of the children responded by sharing their desire to be baptized and publicly declare their decision to follow Jesus.</div>
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Today we celebrated the baptism of ten children. Ranging in ages from 10 to 17, the children stood before our community and proclaimed their intent to follow Christ. Many of them shared their desire to tell others about His life-transforming power. It was certainly a joyous celebration. </div>
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So, with thankful hearts we were able to watch these children declare their relationship with Christ. It was a wonderful reminder that God is at work in Swaziland. He is being made known, and many of the children at New Life Homes have embraced Him with their whole hearts. </div>
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We celebrated afterwards by eating ice cream, enjoying each other, and encouraging those who were baptized. Please join us in praising His wonderful work. Also, continue to pray for those who took this important step today. We ask God to guide them as they grow into mature believers who transform their communities for Christ.<br />
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Tommy and Mandihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899142525380985396noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1736486610106410492.post-72674194605587578922014-09-23T12:04:00.000-07:002015-11-07T05:15:02.510-08:00Guest Blog: Mission Team Visits Swaziland<div style="text-align: center;">
This guest blog was written by Rick Tucker of University Covenant Church</div>
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<i>Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. (James 1:22)</i></div>
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My first trip out of the country was an all-expense paid trip to Afghanistan courtesy of taxpayers and the U.S. Army. While I was there, I spent a lot of time reading the Bible and going to study groups led by Army Chaplains. I remember one series very well. We studied the book of James. The chaplain started the series off by explaining to us soldiers that he saw the book of James as "the gospel in boot leather." That made sense to us. We all knew a lot of politicians and pundits who talked about supporting troops and saving the Afghan people from oppression by the Taliban but we were the ones there, "in our boot leather", taking risks and trying to make it happen. </div>
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A couple months ago I was able to experience the "gospel in boot leather” when my short term mission team was hosted by Tommy and Mandi Bottoms at New Life Homes (NLH) in Swaziland. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpCBv-UB5jUZBFVKKFIIkCIv1WvGPoR_oxS9p_bc2bNhq-HSxLagvU0fVqc2R3s2dw6mbOF4Z1wdLYPD8GsqR1WnWgd36IdPpk8xIF-CFlqvpV7cSLzPvsFMo5uK43Bz0CHUv8kLpXeop4/s1600/DSC01795.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpCBv-UB5jUZBFVKKFIIkCIv1WvGPoR_oxS9p_bc2bNhq-HSxLagvU0fVqc2R3s2dw6mbOF4Z1wdLYPD8GsqR1WnWgd36IdPpk8xIF-CFlqvpV7cSLzPvsFMo5uK43Bz0CHUv8kLpXeop4/s1600/DSC01795.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tommy, Mandi, and guest blogger, Rick Tucker.</td></tr>
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The book of James can be controversial because it spends so much time talking about deeds rather than simply relying on the faith that Paul described in Romans. But, when we visited Tommy and Mandi, I came to a richer understanding of what James described. James wrote, "Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in the their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world." (James 1:27) While visiting NLH, I felt as if I had walked into the manifestation of James 1:27. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Evaluating goats for parasites.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Installing a new mini-greenhouse in the nursery.</td></tr>
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If you're reading this, you probably already know about NLH so I'm not going to describe it to you here except to say that it is A LOT more than what you imagine it to be. The NLH staff have a tremendous responsibility. It caused stress for me to just contemplate it, and they do it every day – it’s their life. They are running a commercial farm, a primary school, a children's home, a ministry and a variety of other things all at once. Any of those things is a challenge but they do them all. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2VfPrduJDg47W0cR1sAJ1BAAXh-09YpiJFeOLXZS1jb_QhGV0CNHe174r0HdgsaG8gfwJrbSdxutSWOVhMLtwU6DimJbJavSK7AqCH6FII-Ryy7yYPfU49LuyAzHuFQN_y47mywSJ_M5b/s1600/DSC00209.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2VfPrduJDg47W0cR1sAJ1BAAXh-09YpiJFeOLXZS1jb_QhGV0CNHe174r0HdgsaG8gfwJrbSdxutSWOVhMLtwU6DimJbJavSK7AqCH6FII-Ryy7yYPfU49LuyAzHuFQN_y47mywSJ_M5b/s1600/DSC00209.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Teaching at the on-site primary school. </td></tr>
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The kids at NLH are a blessing. Each has special gifts from God that we were able to unwrap a little and see during our visit. I thank God that Tommy, Mandi, Peter and Mary Jean Kopp and Tiersa Chaffin have sacrificed the comforts of home in the U.S. to minister to these children in rural Africa. Hearing the children's stories broke my heart and I can't imagine what could have happened to them without NLH. Their gentle spirits touched my heart in a way I did not expect and as I sit with my four children, at home, I thank God for creating and calling such dedicated people to care for 42 children at NLH.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spending quality time with kids.</td></tr>
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It's not just the children that depend on NLH. People from throughout the community have jobs and training because of the opportunities provided by the farm. I met people who had previously worked on the farm and now ran their own farms where they successfully support their families. People ranging from community members to government officials could not stop heaping praise on NLH. Nobody could do all that they do without relying on God and receiving His blessing and they do it with grace and humility. What they do at NLH, their "deeds", demonstrates a deep faith in God. It encouraged my faith to see their actions and still motivates me when I reflect on it.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The short term team, long term team, children, and house mothers.</td></tr>
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Please keep all the NLH missionaries in your prayers. They need it. God called them to a big job that makes a huge difference and they have willingly answered that call. Please pray for God's daily guidance of the farm so that they can continue to support the children. Please pray for the generosity, of people who hear about NLH, to support the financial needs that are not being met by the farm's output. Most of all, pray for the people of NLH, the missionaries, the children and the employees to feel God's love and encouragement as they go through their daily lives, that seem routine to them but are so extraordinary to me. My visit to NLH was a life changing and faith growing experience. I pray to someday have the kind of faith that produces such sweet fruit (and vegetables... and honey... and eggs... and poultry... and pork... and beef) as I saw during my short visit. </div>
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Thank you NLH for answering God's call. You are special people. </div>
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<i>Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. (Joshua 1:9)</i></div>
Tommy and Mandihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899142525380985396noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1736486610106410492.post-23907238365823254542014-08-22T00:45:00.000-07:002014-08-22T00:45:38.965-07:00Together Again<div style="text-align: center;">
Isn’t it wonderful to be reunited with someone you love? This past month, a brother, sister, and niece were reunited at New Life Homes.</div>
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Seven years ago, due to some unfortunate circumstances, a brother and sister were placed in separate orphan care homes. The brother, Musa, arrived at New Life Homes. The sister, Nsike (n-see-ge) was placed at a home for girls. They rarely had contact and were unable to visit one another.</div>
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Last month, Nsike visited Musa at New Life Homes for the weekend. During her visit it was quickly realized Nsike, was in a fairly desperate situation. Several unexpected events left her living alone and caring for her 7 year-old niece Nonhle (pronounced known-hle). She was maintaining the homestead, fetching firewood and water nightly, all while achieving very high grades in her high school classes. It was an easy decision to invite Nsike and Nonhle to stay at New Life Homes permanently.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLtlvesYwtC8FeCVCqe3aVyOWSvCTc78_WJNVz4OOXi7qBUob-ryss-WsgZBdJm7zvxRwP9_LSm9xMC_fw6UBV92viWIsoi3MM7_PWrYMZwIg4Cop3OYgoa3Iiqxj-tEy9EFgbCWL_Q_2F/s1600/1-P1020910.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLtlvesYwtC8FeCVCqe3aVyOWSvCTc78_WJNVz4OOXi7qBUob-ryss-WsgZBdJm7zvxRwP9_LSm9xMC_fw6UBV92viWIsoi3MM7_PWrYMZwIg4Cop3OYgoa3Iiqxj-tEy9EFgbCWL_Q_2F/s1600/1-P1020910.JPG" height="286" width="400" /></a></div>
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It has been nothing short of awesome to watch them reunite with Musa and watch their relationship flourish. As part of a proper introduction to you, I feel like I should tell you more about them.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nsike (far right) hanging out with some of the girls during a weekend retreat.</td></tr>
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Nsike is a graceful, funny, intelligent, contemplative, and joyful young lady who is currently in Form 4 (a junior in HS). She has jumped into taking care of the broiler chickens on the farm and has formed a reputation of staying up late studying and helping others study too. She has an awesome singing voice, and we’ve enjoyed the vibrancy she’s brought to our Teens for Christ ministry.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8e3p0-qpL8pormB6yzbTNvDGi1a9qrJ2ga3yEJmzmBytRXAWKhXtWetY_qg-giztb0qJcF-VJTUpHGXm6muABM0fOvZFV4IzPYpyWBTyK7ngnA50w0rFEsoSB3sjRusvx8W2bEC6MAeEE/s1600/2-P1020899.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8e3p0-qpL8pormB6yzbTNvDGi1a9qrJ2ga3yEJmzmBytRXAWKhXtWetY_qg-giztb0qJcF-VJTUpHGXm6muABM0fOvZFV4IzPYpyWBTyK7ngnA50w0rFEsoSB3sjRusvx8W2bEC6MAeEE/s1600/2-P1020899.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Nonhle is a cute, happy-go-lucky little girl. She is very willing to give hugs, hold hands, and loves all positive attention. She has started preschool and is already improving her English. She has bonded quickly with her new mom, brothers, and sisters. Her sweet, yet clever nature will no doubt warm our hearts and keep us on our toes for years to come.</div>
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We praise God for bringing these two to New Life Homes. We ask that you pray for the children, their house mother, Make (ma-gay) Shongwe, and for their futures. We are excited to see how God will continue to work in and through these two young ladies</div>
Tommy and Mandihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899142525380985396noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1736486610106410492.post-92100191289124401102014-07-04T06:45:00.004-07:002014-07-04T06:45:58.630-07:00Family Time<div style="text-align: center;">
I (Mandi) just wanted to share a brief update about the seventeen days (yes, I counted every one) I spent stateside last month. It was a very special time. </div>
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I arrived two days after the birth of my new niece, Cora Louem Quinn.</div>
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I spent most of my time at my sister's house in the Bay Area, getting properly introduced to Cardon (14 months) and Cora (newborn). My vacation included lots of dirty diapers and cleaning spit up from clothing, carpets, and couches. I loved every minute of it! I am completely enthralled by these little ones.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGdgu3uc4mIHJtJl9qblzIEdlHkC0zYzRvgJn8lH6840oatwUftnc_1p_rW56aYLnjjSTaMZr4iKUiRSd_A6eV-ccZzPGKPYduT54qhk3IYdNRWb7OnzeFi2sEpPYg1k7s04eTG1Eahuu2/s1600/2-DSC_0030-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGdgu3uc4mIHJtJl9qblzIEdlHkC0zYzRvgJn8lH6840oatwUftnc_1p_rW56aYLnjjSTaMZr4iKUiRSd_A6eV-ccZzPGKPYduT54qhk3IYdNRWb7OnzeFi2sEpPYg1k7s04eTG1Eahuu2/s1600/2-DSC_0030-001.jpg" height="320" width="214" /></a></div>
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My brother and parents also came down for weekend visits.</div>
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I enjoyed four days in Escalon with Tommy's family. I stayed with his parents, Dick and Ellen, and also spent time with his brother's family and our niece (Ashley) and nephews (Jack and Charlie). It was so special to reconnect with them!</div>
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I relished some of life's simple pleasures like Target, burritos, pool parties, and ice cream.<br />I left feeling so thankful for the blessing of family. </div>
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Tommy and Mandihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899142525380985396noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1736486610106410492.post-88863066897287616332014-06-22T11:17:00.000-07:002014-06-22T11:17:06.489-07:00Another Theft<div style="text-align: center;">
One visitor who came on a short term trip to Swaziland commented that “things are always happening in Swaziland.” We can comfortably say that his observation is true.</div>
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On Tuesday night I was robbed at gunpoint. I was on my way to pick up Mandi and three visitors from the airport in Johannesburg when I was a part of a well-planned car accident. The accident happened in Swaziland, a few miles from the South African border. When I stopped to exchange details, the two men held me at gun point, threatened me, and stole everything—truck keys, passport, money, wallet, phone, and all forms of identification. Once they left, I ran to the guard shack of a royal residence close by and the guard at the gate pulled a gun on me too! Thankfully, the guy believed my story and offered to help. I used the guard’s phone to call the only number I could remember—one of the New Life housemothers. Peter and Mary Jean Kopp (our trusted colleagues) left immediately to meet me. They arrived about two hours after the incident and the police still hadn’t arrived after multiple calls from the guards and the Kopps. The police finally arrived, but were soon called away to a similar incident involving the same suspects up the road.</div>
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Obviously, this was a scary and frustrating event. We know that we are called to serve God and we also know that he does not guarantee our physical safety when serving Him. That being said, events like this wear on the heart and mind and we are asking for prayers of comfort and strength. We all realize there is much to be thankful for—I was not physically hurt, they didn’t steal our vehicle, and the location was close to help. I was thankful Mandi was not with me. Two of the soldiers from the royal residence stood at the scene with me in the cold for nearly three hours, assuring me they would not leave me until someone came. We are so grateful to those two kind men. </div>
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Of course, I couldn’t continue to Johannesburg without a passport. The Kopps and I came back to the farm late that night and Peter and I got up at 4 AM to head back to town. Peter used the spare keys to take the vehicle from the police station to Johannesburg to fetch Mandi and company. I worked with the police for about three hours and then began to sort out passport issues, banking details, and phone replacements. Needless to say, it was a huge relief to see my wife! </div>
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Please continue to pray. This is both disheartening to us and has caused a significant amount of trauma. Please pray for everyone on the farm. Some of our Swazi friends have experienced trauma associated with violence, and this act has stirred many emotions. </div>
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Please pray for justice. </div>
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Please pray for me. My mind has been racing since this happened with regrets, fears, and frustrations.</div>
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Please pray that the details regarding the forms of identification and money will work themselves out.</div>
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Please pray that our hearts and minds are not hardened and that we can still be ready and willing to accomplish what God has planned here in Swaziland.</div>
Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17203711390884300307noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1736486610106410492.post-8545879407921222962014-05-26T07:55:00.000-07:002014-05-26T07:55:47.119-07:00(un)finished<div style="text-align: center;">
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Recently we have been considering what God has planned for our “next step” in life. Although some days we desire to board a plane (or helicopter, or boat, or just about anything!) and go home, we also face a deeper knowledge that our time here is not finished. We feel especially compelled to stay and invest more in the youth ministry. Strategically speaking, the school and farm development projects are not at a place where they are ready to run independently. There are still many ideas to share and relationships to development. There is much training to be done!</div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">We will continue to serve in Swaziland through 2015. We will return home for several weeks towards the end of 2014, and look forward to visiting with family and friends. We can’t wait to reconnect with you in person! I (Mandi) will be travelling back to California in just over a week to be with my sister as she gives birth to a baby girl, and am looking forward to meeting my newest nephew (her firstborn) for the first time as well. I will head back to Swaziland after spending two short weeks with family.</span></div>
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We can’t say it enough—we are SO grateful for your support and care. In some of our lowest moments we have received encouragement and prayer that has reassured us of our calling here.</div>
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Tommy and Mandihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899142525380985396noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1736486610106410492.post-45244685701244991002014-05-02T08:55:00.000-07:002014-05-02T08:55:15.943-07:00Keeping Young Minds Busy<div style="text-align: center;">
Our greatest goal is to see the children at New Life Children’s Homes come to know and love Jesus Christ personally.</div>
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Secondly, we desire to prepare the children here for a brighter future. We place a huge emphasis on education, which extends from New Life Primary School to individual tutoring sessions, a robust library, and learning practical skills on the farm. We are in the middle of a countrywide 3-week long school break. We know from experience that kids tend to get into more trouble when they are less busy, so we try to provide ample opportunities for the kids to stay busy. This week, we hosted a daily science camp.</div>
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The goal of the camp was to enrich their school-based science experiences with hands-on experimental learning. All the New Life Homes missionaries pitched in to teach students about simple machines and weather. Mandi organized the daily activities and curriculum, while Tommy taught sessions on agricultural machinery and the water cycle (one of his favorite topics). We had 22 children attend each day, including a few from the community. </div>
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The kids provided some feedback at the end of the workshops.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“Was it too long?”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“NO!”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“Was it fun?”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“YES!”</span></div>
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Several students made specific comments, but I think 12-year old Mnelisi said it perfectly:</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">“We kept our minds busy all week!”</span></div>
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Tommy and Mandihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10899142525380985396noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1736486610106410492.post-81688207651543549132014-04-18T00:52:00.000-07:002014-04-18T00:52:15.206-07:00Turning to Teens<div style="text-align: center;">
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Winter retreats, spring mission trips, corn-eating contests, small group hang out sessions, and lots and lots of dodge ball consumed a significant amount of our lives while we were working with high school students in Davis. We loved the kids, the leaders, and the activities. We were often as tired as basset hounds at the end of each program. It was (and still is) easy to see how the shaping of one’s Christian faith is critically important during those adolescent years.<br />
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While taking a short reprieve in South Africa a few weeks ago, we began to evaluate our ministry here and we noticed a need for people to pour into the high school-aged students, both on the farm and in the community. It may be interesting to note that the biblical knowledge of these kids (even those who are not Christians) is better than the average Christian in America. That being said, their faith may be shallow and riddled with confusing legalistic ideas and infusions from other spiritualistic beliefs. We thought, why not start a youth ministry that meets teens at different stages of faith to share a Christian message that is easy to understand?<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">These teens play a highly-competitive game of musical chairs.<br /></td></tr>
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Recently, Mandi and I, and our colleague, Tiersa, launched <i>Teens For Christ</i>. We had more than 25 high school-aged students come to the first meeting and an equally impressive crowd at the second meeting. It was awesome to see teenagers engage with faith questions and discussions in a way that is both different and inviting. We played games, I gave share a message about Jesus, had some small group discussions, and enjoyed popcorn afterwards.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Teaching about sin.</td></tr>
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Lots of laughs, good questions and comments, and a plethora of high fives filled the preschool classroom where it is being held. This accomplishes many objectives of our ministry. It reaches out the community, we get to know the “farm” kids’ friends (like any good parent would want to!) and we form relationships with kids who are in desperate need for attention and affirmation. </div>
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We are currently having Teens for Christ once a month and are looking in the possibility of expanding it to every two weeks. Please pray for this undertaking. Pray especially for relationships to be formed that will allow us to share our faith in a real way. Pray that we would be able to communicate clearly with the teens, and that they would be receptive to what we share. Most of all, pray that kids would come to know Jesus Christ in a personal way.<br />
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Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17203711390884300307noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1736486610106410492.post-61799809670374292142014-04-05T23:00:00.001-07:002014-04-05T23:00:06.001-07:00When Two Ministries Collide<div style="text-align: center;">
New Life Children’s Homes is a complex, multifaceted operation that is difficult to explain to people – even if they have spent years prancing around this place. There are many aspects of our work here including caring for orphaned and vulnerable kids, operating a school, running a farm that provides food and income to the kids, employing house mothers whose job is to oversee the “farm,” as well as employing nearly 20 other folks from the community to make everything work. It is a place for training others (from kids to leaders in our country), as well as a place where people do business. It is a busy and sometimes crazy place. This makes it attractive to others – from Swazis who want to see a place that a bunch of crazy Americans are helping run to foreigners who want to meet and support the kids and missionaries. We get quite a few visitors who all have their own angle of interest.</div>
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This past week, we hosted the Minister of Agriculture for Swaziland (akin to the Secretary of Ag for the U.S., who is currently Tom Vilsack). Along with Minister Vilakati about 25 other government leaders descended on the farm for a tour of the many agricultural operations. Peter (NLCH founder and director), myself, and Mthi (our farm foreman) each talked about different facets of the farm. Below are some pictures of our time with the minister.</div>
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More than anything, this brings an immense amount of pride to each of our farm workers and our kids. They see that important people are visiting because of their effort. It is fun to be a part of a team that works hard to serve our kids and community while producing high-quality products. </div>
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The craziest part of the meeting? As we wrapped up, Minister Vilakati asked where we were from in the U.S. After I told he that I came from California, he mentioned that he was familiar with the state from his college years. He said that he attended school in San Luis Obispo. Cal Poly! After we gave each other half-hugs realizing we were both Mustang alum, he then mentioned he received his masters at UC Davis. Whoa! I did my graduate work in Davis. Though we did not proceed to a full hug, there was a pleasant appreciation for each other’s paths that brought us both to a small farm in Swaziland. What an interesting connection!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwFP5tVCNr2NurAEhZVW6EaVON8IBbWFP4_eE0dw3d92syIiLvPrlrBg90Tdb1i5l4GaF-FZmXsZdDUqz-aZSn5oyMobGNu8nTaJgYxwtAD8lZt0IBYOQ8It1qDAcApBXXUvXAzx4ylBk/s1600/DSCN4004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwFP5tVCNr2NurAEhZVW6EaVON8IBbWFP4_eE0dw3d92syIiLvPrlrBg90Tdb1i5l4GaF-FZmXsZdDUqz-aZSn5oyMobGNu8nTaJgYxwtAD8lZt0IBYOQ8It1qDAcApBXXUvXAzx4ylBk/s1600/DSCN4004.JPG" height="400" width="265" /></a></div>
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Below is a picture of the great team that we have assembled on the farm (from L to R), Harriet Makhubu (leads the chickens and the nursery), Raymond Dlamini (our sales and marketing director), Sipiwe Shongwe (house mother), Winnie Johnston (house mother), Mthi Nhleko (farm foreman), Peter Kopp (founder and director), Winile Khumalo (house mother), Happy Msibi (house mother) and, well, me.</div>
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Thank you for your continued prayers and support for this project.</div>
Tommyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17203711390884300307noreply@blogger.com0