Saturday, October 1, 2011

Hopefully final edition of the Michigan version of the Sierra Leone Tribune




Hello,
I can't believe how quickly time is passing... the fall weather is beautiful and we are enjoying it. Sierra Leone is south of the equator so our seasons will be different, it's getting hotter there every day which will probably feel good by the time we get there:)

I think I have mentioned before, how quiet it seems to us here. I can't wait to hear and see the vendors on the streets, children laughing and way too many vehicles for a one lane road:) What kind of new bugs will I have to tackle? I've heard there are white/invisible ants that can even get into sealed Tupperware containers... A worthy adversary? There are a lot of "weapons" in our barrels, I'm ready (I think).

We are so excited, we are grandparents again. Dayton Joseph Stewart entered our world September 15th, three weeks early. He was small (little over 5 lbs) but perfect in every way. He looks just like his father did in his baby pictures, except he has full beautiful lips like his mom. I am emailing from Denver (thank you frequent flier miles) for a few days where I am holding him and taking pictures every chance I get. Storing those memories for the year ahead. Our granddaughter, Mia will be four in November and I can't believe she was ever this small. Our grandchildren are, of course, the smartest, cutest and funniest... (to us).

During these few months home with portions of our hearts spread here and in our last two placements we have dealt with excitement, apprehension, loss, grieving and acceptance. The following passage from Philippians 4:12-13 has come alive for us these past four years. "I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength". It is so true, no matter our circumstance he leads us through. How else could we marvel at how content people are that have no home but have him? People that put their trust in him each morning to provide for their daily "bread". Children that are joyous playing with a stick and a rock... His hand in all those lives providing the peace only he can give.. We are so blessed.

We are entering the home stretch and we need that final push to send us on our way. Our bags are almost completely packed and we are just waiting, waiting for your help. We are still $3600 from our target goal, that's only $300 per month in cash or pledges. It doesn't seem like a lot, if 12 people pledged $25 per month or 6 people pledged $50 per month, we'd be on our way. Please help us in praying that ears would be open to Gods' calling to help us financially. We know these are tough times but we ask that you remember, God urges us to pledge based on faith, not on budgets. We would be honored to welcome you to our financial support team, we are confident you are already a member of our prayer team. We have a tenative leave date of October 20nd, please help us get on that plane!

Thank you for all the comments and emails, we really value your encouragement. The past few months we have appreciated seeing many of you and sharing the next step of our journey. Posted a few new pictures on our website www.thewattersfamily.blogspot.com.

In His Service,
David and Beth (will I have another new name in Sierra Leone?)

If you wish to make a contribution here is the information:

World Hope International
Attn: Contributions Lockbox
P O Box 17151
Baltimore, MD 21297-1151

Please remember to enter our name and constituent number 28163 on the memo line of your check. You may also donate by credit/debit card and if you have questions please call 1-888-466-4673 and ask for donor services. The quickest way to donate directly to our account is on-line at
Watters Family in Sierra Leone Thank you!

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