First week in America for 2013 choir!!!

There have been a lot of ‘firsts’ for us this week! Personally, I have
experienced love at first sight.  As the choir arrived from customs up
the escalators in SeaTac, my heart was melted by smiles from 5
beautiful boys and 5 beautiful girls and the incredible Aunty Alice
and Aunty Phionah.  Although fatigued by over 28 hours of travel time,
the kids radiated with an excitement to be in this new land. My love
for them has only grown deeper this week and it’s been truly a special
opportunity to continue to get to know them better.

The choir at the park!

Trying foods for the first time has been fun. The choir has tried lots
of new foods including but not limited to broccoli, beets, cheese,
cereal, lasagna, and CUPCAKES. We’ve had our fair share of cupcakes
between birthdays (Cissy’s February 8 and Aunty Jessica’s February 13)
and of course, Valentine’s Day. Speaking of Valentine’s day, we were
treated to the most spectacular Valentine’s Day presentation by the
University Cooperative School in Seattle, Washington.  The students
made each choir member a handmade box with their names that included
their lunches and of course, cupcakes. This gesture was very heartfelt
and immensely appreciated by all.

Charles, Jackline, and Julius with their Valentine’s Day boxes

Other firsts include the introduction of the washing machine and
dryer. I had the great pleasure of showing Julius, Jafari, and Charles
this luxury at our host home.  The boys were fascinated and curious
why it would take so long to wash the clothes (45 minutes) and they
were baffled by how fast the dryer would dry the clothes (48 minutes).
It was a really a reflective moment for me, where I had to pause in
gratitude for these conveniences that I often take for granted.

Charles with a birthday cake for his Aunty Jessica

Our first performance is this upcoming Wednesday, February 20, in
Silverdale, Washington. The choir has been very busy with rehearsals.
I have been blown away by what I’ve seen during rehearsals. These kids
bring so much joy, life, and energy to their performances. It is truly
a gift to watch them drum, sing, and dance. Aunty Phionah and Aunty
Alice have done a fantastic job rehearsing with them and I can’t wait
for audiences across America to experience what the choir has to
offer!

Rehearsal

There are many more firsts to come and we are all so grateful for the
host families and the University Cooperative School for getting us off
to the right start. Thank you! Wabale nyo ( Thank you in Luganda)!

-Aunty Jessica

About these ads