Saturday, January 7, 2012

Letters from Fred

There were two letters from Fred today, one of which he actually wrote himself. The first was the usual update from his mother:

Dear Auntie Sykes,

Christian greetings!!! We are so happy that God bless our families with such goodness. We are happy for your new baby. I like butterflies too but they just got many in a season. I saw the pictures of the sea lion. I wish that we will have it here. Do you live near the beach or the mountains. We will pray for your cousin's recovery.

Our church had a sportsfest last October and the theme talks about the eagle. The park is so beautiful. We have many tourist spots here. Here in our place we have the Canlan Volcano.

thank you for the coloring books. thank you for your goodness to us. May God bless you always! Please pray that Fred will love God above all.

Love
Fred's mother

Fred always draws such sunny, happy pictures but I had to chuckle at this one which looks like the sun coming up over McDonald's. I am impressed with the forced perspective in the bricks, though.


Fred's own

The "letter" from Fred was actually 3 pages long, but each similar to this. It was very special to have something he had written himself.

Wednesday, January 4, 2012

Raemo

Raemo has become an Excellent Role Model and Leader

Raemo Sylvester 2011

Dear UBS, Bill, Amy, Dana, Rob, Steve, Beverly, Sarah, Brooke & Nick, Jennifer, and Emily,

Raemo is in 8th grade and started attending TEAM-WORKS Academy, because he was struggling in his classes. He began the program feeling like it was a form of punishment by his teacher to have to get extra help. Soon, he realized that TEAM-WORKS was more than just a tutoring program.

Raemo has made a lot of great relationships during his time at the academy. Many of the other students, have begun to look up to Raemo because he is friendly, hard working, and loves to participate. As a result, he has become an excellent role model and leader to the rest of the students in the Academy. Raemo lets everyone feel comfortable in being themselves, by being friendly to everyone and by being his true self. During character lessons, Raemo always has a lot to add to the discussions, and he brings many bright ideas to the table which also helps the other students.

Raemo has grown so much since his first day at TEAM-WORKS Academy. He has really taken advantage of the program, by participating, contributing, and working hard. Raemo does everything with a smile on his face and brings a lot of energy to the club each day. Because of your thoughtful donations that we appreciate so much, Raemo is in a safe environment after school adding to his knowledge and growth each day.

Loan made through See Your Impact.

Monday, January 2, 2012

Letter from Shallon

I finally had a letter from Shallon, who hasn't written for a long time. I worried because of the droughts experienced in Uganda. Here is her letter:

Beloved Beverly Sykes,

With amazing happiness of writing this letter is to send my heartfelt greetings to you and beloved family members.

First and foremost I would like to thank God almighty for the gift of life to see that we are all still alive in his name. I am now in holidays and I have ended this term successfully.

But unfortunately I transferred from the school I was in and I am in the new school because I do not take the food they give us so I had to go in a school that was near to my home area.

I promoted to senior two with the position of 6th out of 38 students and I thank God for this position. I also promise you to do the best next term more than this.

My family members are okay and they all greet you.

We are now enjoying both sunshine and rain. Really condition is good here ihn Uganda as Christmas is soon coming but there is inflation of goods and works are going on slowly so pray for us.

I also request for prayers in my daily life because at times I feel headache and stomach pain but by God's mercy I will get well.

I appreciate your love, kindness and care you render to me. Sincerely may God reward you abundantly.

I have new friends who love you and also love to hear from you.

Let me wish you the best in whatever you do.

May good Lord bless you.