2011 ~ Countdown of a year for the Nielsens
(with a little lesson in Swahili!)

10. (kumi – koo me) A year of safe travels on the precarious roads in Kenya.

9. (tisa – tee sah) A year of having several visitors come to see us ~ most recently, Patti’s sister and brother-in-law for Christmas. It was wonderful to have them (and they can vouch for the unpredictable roads we travel)! We LOVE showing people our world!

8. (nane – non aye) A year of growing in our roles as dorm parents and missionary kids. Our kids have grown leaps and bounds physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Sometimes it seems as though Kenya is all they’ve ever known. And we feel that we have the best job in the world!

7. (saba – sah bah) A season of sharing life with seven amazing dorm boys who we have had the privilege of loving and discipling in our home. It’s been fun and encouraging to watch them develop and thrive in the boarding school setting and, most importantly, in their walk with Christ.

6. (sita – see tah) A year of learning over and over again the astounding amount of hellos and good-byes missionaries face. It never gets easier.

5. (tano – tah no) A time of cultivating sweet relationships with fellow missionaries and co-workers. We are grateful for a body of unified staff who all have the common purpose of loving and educating missionary kids.

 4. (nne – n nay) A year of adapting and changing curriculum and teaching amazing students who are so appreciative of their education that they tell Travis thank you after every class.

3. (tatu – tah too) A year ending in good health but not without a season of illnesses and broken bones. We are grateful for able bodies (a little older but still able!)!

2. (mbili – m beelee) A year of reaching out to the community around us and sharing the gospel of Christ through words and deeds.

A blessed new year to you all,
Travis, Patti, Kylea, Joshua, Tia, & Levi