"Friends and relations send salutations...."
Out of the blue last week, I received a call from a college friend. I don't think we've actually spoken in nearly 14 years though I keep up with her through another friend, but it turns out her sister is moving here and needed help with some details. The Hamill B & B opened its doors again (what we lack for in sleeping comfort is hopefully made up in quality of food), and we all had a fantastic weekend.
Eileen arrived after most of the kids were asleep so we were able to get acquainted before the onslaught of children. I forewarned her that Jonathan was liable to say anything, and when he appeared before she awoke, I reminded him to be polite.
He was thrilled to have someone from Africa staying in our home and told everyone at church about her. Katherine was a little reluctant to interact, but apparently she was warming up because when Eileen left for some appointments later in the day, Katherine was rather affronted: "Her didn't kiss me." Eileen graciously returned and kissed Katherine and all was well in the world of the two year old.
We had lessons in geography and world cultures; discussions of traditional foods; Christmas songs in Swahili and attempts to learn a few basic words phrases ("hello," "goodbye," "where's the bathroom?") but now all we can remember is goodnight ("lala salama" which reminds us of one of our favorite books). But we feel so blessed to now have a new friend and can't wait for her return next year.
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