Life of Riley

Last night we had a lovely Chinese meal with the Riley's.  It was our chance to say a BIG thank you to them for all their support, prayers and encouragement over the past year, during the adoption process.  They became my 'inter-country experts'.  We ended our meal with this carved melon full of fruit salad!  We didn't even order it, it just appeared.  Look at the work gone into carving that though!

Mark and Keren, along with their three adorable children, have moved to Uganda to live.  They are currently doing some incredible work with some children's homes here, in attempting to put into a play a new way of running things.  Their vision is to see a type of foster care system in place here in Uganda.  This would mean children benefit from the love of parents, experience a family environment, are removed from the standard institutionalised settings and given the opportunity of a better future.  It is a wonderful vision, but it won't be an easy journey for them.  Most people are reluctant to change and many do not see the damage the current systems are having on the children in their care.  There will be many hurdles for them to overcome.  But you know what?  They are two very determined and passionate people.  They will strive to make the changes happen.  They have my backing 110%  Every journey starts with a single step and they have made a lot more than just one step in the short time they've been here.
If you'd like to find out more about the work they are carrying out and their journey here in Uganda, you'll find their blog here