September 2011
Catching the bus to RVA
“Nehemiah what is your favorite thing about RVA this term?” This is a question I asked our son while visiting him last week at Rift Valley Academy in Kenya where our kids go to school. “Mr. Dahlman and World History, he is an awesome teacher!” This made me smile! Mr. Dahlman was in my second grade class when I taught at RVA 20 years ago. He was a great kid then and an awesome role model for my son now. While I was in Kenya Mr. Dahlman (rather funny for me to call him Mr.:)) also led worship for the Sunday morning worship service. I am so proud of him. I would like to think I might have played a small role in his journey; even so he is a godly young man investing in my son. I think that is a pretty good 20 year investment!
Many of you know I took all three kids to RVA and then went to the states to spend time with my family and then back to Kenya. I returned home to Parakou last Wednesday and am slowly getting back into the rhythm of my Benin life. My dad is doing better than he was two months ago praise the Lord. We had some wonderful times together. I especially loved drinking that second cup of coffee over a leisurely breakfast with my mom and dad. Our time was so blessed with few other demands on us. While I was there we celebrated my dad’s 80th birthday. It was quite the celebration with family and community. For the first time in four years (I think) my brother, sister and I were together. I could go on and on about my time in the US but just know that I am very thankful for time spent in the US and those that I was able to see.
Since I flew from Kenya I was able to see the kids on my return to Benin. They have all settled in well. Miriam Loves it! Thanks for all of your prayers. I loved seeing each of them in their environment. I went to several classes ate lunch with their friends, went to soccer and basketball games, went to chapels, talked with teachers and dorm parents. We are so blessed that our kids have a school like RVA to go to!
Miriam and Micah at RVA