May 24th Update

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This past 3 weeks has been quite a whirlwind of activities here in the States. But I get to go back to my kids this morning! I have missed them so much!
The attached picture is one of several of the kids one morning before I left. They are always so cold in the mornings - have to get those sweaters on! The kids are, from left to right front row: Bright (in the red coat, not really in the picture - he is our cook, Christine's son), Margret, Charity; back row: David, Johnson, Junior and William. Every time I get my camera out, the kids start crowding around - they love to have their picture taken and then to see what they look like. Then, as they look at the pictures, everyone giggles. I have several videos, which cannot be sent via email (too big a file), but wish you could see them when they are playing.
I also have included 2 pictures that I took in the States of fundraisers that many of you are involved in for Cornerstone. The first is of a pancake breakfast that Broken and Mending Ministries (BAMM) in Fremont, CA did for the kids. They sold tickets for the breakfast, and had a raffle with prizes that had been donated from several businesses and individuals - plus a basket from Uganda that I brought back over when I came. It was a great success and I heard from several BAMMers that it really helped them all pull together for a cause bigger than themselves. Thanks, BAMM, for caring for the children and staff in Budaka.
The second picture from the States is of a can that is used to collect bottles and cans from Evergreen Christian Center in Hillsboro. These cans are turned in for money and that money is sent with the express purpose of buying books for the children's school. They have raised almost $500 so far for books - that will go SO far in Uganda, and we will be purchasing lots of books for the school. Thanks to all the ECC members who collect cans and bottles each week.
I packed last night (with Abby helping - thanks, Ab!) and am taking so many things back for the children - thank you all who participated in buying and getting me supplies for the orphanage and school. We are taking books, chalk, pens and pencils, markers, batteries and rechargers, a printer with extra ink cartridges, underwear and other clothing for the kids, T-shirts for the staff and so much more. There was so much (I'm only allowed 23 kg-about 50 lbs per suitcase) that Abby is keeping 1 1/2 suitcases worth of stuff that will come with the next person or team that comes over. I am overwhelmed! Thank you so much for all the support.
I'm excited to go back now and I know that the children and staff will be delighted with what you have sent. THANK YOU!!!
My plane leaves just before noon, but I have to be there by 9am to check in, so now need to go and get ready. It's so hard to say goodbye to all of you on this side of the world, but please know that I will once again be sending you emails on Mondays beginning next week. It has been wonderful to see many of you on this trip. May the Lord bless you.
Love,
Laurie