It has felt really strange to say “Merry Christmas” hundreds of time each week this month!

Once schools dismiss in Swaziland for a long break at the beginning of December, very little happens anywhere. The country of Swaziland literally takes a “break” until January.

So, in order to have Christmas parties at all of our nineteen Manzini care points, we have to start early.

Christmas parties are held on Wednesday and Friday since kids typically get out of school a little earlier on these days. The kids get to play and bounce on a jump castle, they receive a special meal and all receive a hygiene gift bag.

It is such a blessing to be a part of the parties. 

For years, we have heard about the parties and received the Children’s Hope Chest Christmas card with all their beautiful faces on the front, but now…

Now we actually see the kids’ smiles as they receive their gift. We also get to see the “behind the scenes organization” of attempting to get hundreds of kids to look the same direction at the camera AND smile. It is quite amusing at times!

Thousands of kids are reminded of Jesus’ birth and how He loves each one of them and gave them His greatest gift of all, His Son.

“For unto us a child is born, to us a son is given…and he will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace”. Isaiah 9:6 

Isn’t it fabulous that we can celebrate this gift all year…even in October!

Michelle, Greg, Landon and Lane