This week I had to say goodbye to my Eskom kids. There are three children there that I absolutely adore. I know I'm going to spell all of their names wrong too but I'll try! First, there's Tandeku. She's the first child that I held the first day when I was at Eskom. She reminds me a lot of myself. She's got a quiet spirit but she's also very independent and strong. She wears her emotions on her sleeve too and she'll always show by her facial expressions how she's feeling. She was so open to me right away and just wanted me to hold her constantly. Actually, whenever I put her down she'd put on a sad face. She has an amazing sense of humor. You wouldn't think so at first because she's really quiet, but she's definitely a goof. I just pray that she'll become such a strong Christian leader and a leader within her community.

The next little boy is Coliso. He's one of the children that I spent a lot of time with teaching respect and being nice! He has such a fun personality, but definitely can get a little naughty at times. It was funny because no matter how many times he got in trouble and I had to correct him, he always would come running back to me and want a hug. It kind of reminded me of our relationship with God. We mess up so much and make so many mistakes, but God never loves us any less. That's one thing I've really come to realize. That though I've made mistakes God will always love me the same as when I was perfect. Coliso has so much potential and I worry about him so much as I leave. I can just tell there's so much hurt that he holds within. Just by his facial expressions. There are so many children like him. They are influenced so much by the conditions there living in, and without guidance many will end up in gangs and getting into so much trouble. I just wish I could be here to really influence his life.

Last, is Sympiwe. O Wow! This child is absolutely amazing. He is such a strong leader and so incredibly intelligent. Out of all the children, I just have a feeling that this boy would be the one to change is community. Everytime I looked at him, he would just flash me this amazing smile that would melt my heart. Even though there are so many children that would be hitting eachother and spitting and who knows what else, he would refrain from that and actually protect the other children. When there would be a child in the cresh crying, he would go over and comfort them and rub their back. This child is absolutely precious. I just know he's going to do incredible things. He's so mature. Everytime I was in Eskom he would just follow me around like my little protector. I'm just going to miss all of these children it makes me cry just thinking about them.

This week we also had a halloween celebration. We dressed up in costumes, are theme was Bible characters. We had about an hour to make costumes and only with things we had in our suitcases or throughout the house. There were a lot of creative costumes though. It was pretty impressive! Overall, the night was a lot of fun. I ate way too much pizza and candy, however.

Everything changes a bit from now on. The Kenya and Swaziland teams are splitting up. The Swazi team is leaving Wednesday. I'm staying in SA with the Kenya team. I just know with all my heart that home is where I'm supposed to be! I can't wait to get back and really change my life in America for the better!

One thing I've learned more than anything being here is how blessed I am with family and friends. Before, I felt like I didn't take full advantage of the people in my life. Now I look at each person and realize how lucky I am.

I talk to my mom almost every night while I'm here. I'm so much like her it's crazy! As I grow up, I've just realized how blessed I am to have the parents that I do. In high school, every child has their fights with their parents (most of them were my fault), but my mom has always been so patient with me. Believe me I could be a snot at times. I think a lot of the reason I'm here is actually because of my mom. She has taught me so much about just caring for others and making a difference in people's lives.  I just can't wait to spend time with her when I get back!

I noticed while I've been here how much that I truly miss my dad. He has been such a good influence in my life. Throughout high school, he always talked to me about all my complaints I was having in any of my sporting events and always had the best advice. As I grow older, I respect him more and more everyday. He is such an amazing man. He cares for each of us so much. My favorite look in the world has always been the look from my dad when I know he's proud of me!

My brother and sisters. Justing I absolutely adore. I think I brag about him constantly. Talk about an amazing kid.  He reminds me of myself, but he's got so many better qualities too. I could spend years with him and never get tired of it! He's so laid back, respectful, kind. I can't even say enough about him! He is such a strong leader too! I don't think I've ever adored anyone more. Whitney, I've been close to my whole life. Hey you have to be when you're 1 year and 7 months, exactly, apart! I've come to respect her more and more over the passed years. Not only as a sister but also a mentor. She always has incredible advice. She is going to make such a difference in this world, and I'm so blessed to have such an amazing person in my life. Ashton, will always be my sister no matter if she is on this earth or in heaven. I love that girl with all my heart. She was such a strong leader and made a difference in so many lives. She has such a passion for life and was always on the go. When I think of living for today, I will always think of Ashton.

My friends, I cannot say enough about. Wow, I never truly realized until I came here how incredible each of you truly are. I don't think I could have been blessed with more incredible people to share my life with. Some of you have become more than friends to me.. you are my family. I wouldn't be able to get through a day without you! You change me for the better and are always there to inspire me.  Each of you knows who you are, but thank you so much! I hope when I get back to America that I will be able to show you half the love you've shown me!

Plane ticket is booked! Thank you so much for the prayers! I can't wait to see you in December!!!

Kels