Coulstons Back in Nairobi

We met Francis and Maureen (with baby Jonathan) in the London airport and traveled on to Nairobi with them. They had been in Midland, Texas, working on World Bible School project. It was good to catch up on some news and to see them. We didn't talk much on the airplane because I slept almost all the way. And after getting here I slept for about 18 hours!!

Yesterday Darlene and I walked to the boys' property and looked at the orchard -- 546 trees plus about 100 passion fruit vines are planted and growing. The water system is working. The baby calf looks good, and there are several baby goats.

It was especially good to see all the students and staff. Everyone seems happy. The bad news is that one boy ran away a week before we came. He was a troubled youth who had a hard time learning -- more about him later. I feel sad at his loss; the team hasn't been able to find him yet.

Molly and Zach, our two interns, have done good work while we were away. They have given oral reports on the work and overall Made in the Streets seems very healthy. Since we are a Team of 21 (plus interns) and have 46 teenagers and hundreds we work with on the streets, there are always minor problems that arise -- such as a student stealing keys and debris getting in one of the water tanks and a student being sick and at the hospital -- but the ministry is healthy and the kids seem alive with enthusiasm.

John Wambu and I went to the 20 acres and planned a fence around the school compound (this is the skills training area where we have built one building and drilled the water well); we also delivered woodworking supplies that Bob Workley donated for that project -- Robin and Nzioka were very happy. John and I also drew up plans for renovation of the Eastleigh property for the coming street mothers' program. We also planned some improvement in the girls' kitchen.

It's great being alive, working in ministry, serving the poorest of the poor, doing what we know Jesus wants done. We are grateful to those who give money to make our work possible.

have a grateful day,

charles