Lindsay and Rachel (the two on the left) hosted a series of parties this weekend to support the community of Bukedea, a village in Uganda. The parties were to promote sponsorship of over 200 orphans in this community as well as to raise funds for a new kitchen.
The children sponsorship program is led by the organization, Children's HopeChest. Many of you reading this are familiar with HopeChest through our work in sponsoring Kolfe Boys Orphanage in Ethiopia. Flying into Fargo from HopeChest were Vince and Brandi (center of the photo). Their passion for the children of Uganda is so prevalent and inspiring. After spending so many months being 'connected' to them virtually through blogs and Facebook, it was great to finally meet them in person.
The beads are truly amazing, some of you may have purchased them from me last year around this time. They are hand-made using recycled magazine paper. They are cut into thin strips and rolled into beads and then shellacked. They are made by women in Uganda and proceeds not only benefit the women who made them, but go towards funding a new kitchen in Bukedea.
These make excellent Christmas gifts and are truly a gift that gives. Maya had a very hard time deciding which one she like best- especially when Brandi told it was OK to try on as many as she liked :)
If you are interested in sponsoring an orphan in Bukedea or would like to buy beads please leave a comment on this post and I will connect you directly with Lindsay.
Maya was very entertained as well and thought that Vince would look great with a necklace on, somehow talked Lindsay into reading her books and carried on an animated conversation with Brandi. Pretty typical afternoon for Maya! 
