Sweetheart K (by: Emily)

Precious moment today- I held my little "Sweetheart k" in my arms today and I told her that I am leaving on Saturday. She looked at me with the most beautiful big brown eyes and loving smile and said "Auntie, I come too?" I tried to explain to her that Canada is very far away, but of course, my little sweetie didn't understand. I love her SO much! I've come to love so many of the children here, but of all the children I've held and loved, little "sweetheart k" is the girl I want to bring home! She melts my heart every time I look at her and I so badly wish I could bring her home. I know I can't though, and I'm just going to hope a loving family adopts her before she's too old to stay at Amani. She is such a heart melter! Alyssa and I are going on our last outing today, and we're allowed to take anyone we want...so, I'm taking my little sweetie! Alyssa is taking my little girl's closest friend here and the four of us are going out for chocolate cake! Then, we're going to walk around town for a bit and just LOVE these little girls as much as we can before we have to bring them back.

I don't really feel like myself these days...I don't know what to think about leaving! I mean, I'm definitely sad...but it will be nice to go home. It's like I'm not super sad about leaving or super excited about going home, but rather I'm just content that I have another day here in this beautiful country! I am so thankful for the opportunity I've had to come here, and each day that I have left is going to be another day that I'll forever cherish. So, basically...I'm not sad...I'm not excited...I'm content with where I am right at this moment and so thankful that I have another day to love these little children and continue to learn what JOY really means. I just can't be sad when I know that wherever I go and whatever I do will be great because this real-deal JOY comes from Christ alone...this life I'm living is not for me, I'm living for Jesus Christ my Saviour and best friend. I just can't be sad....The JOY of the Lord is my strength!

Loving every moment and thankful for a new day!
Em