Day 193 - Leaving MGLSS and Meeting with the Simonson Family

This morning Liz and I left the girls school. As always it was sad to say good-bye, but I hope that maybe one day I can come back to teach Pre Form for their three month session. One of the teachers who I spent a lot of time with was Selina. Selina graduated from the school in 2001 and through the support of her sponsor back in Minnesota she was able to attend university in Kenya. Selina got her teaching degree and decided she wanted to give back to the school that gave her so much. She is a great role model for these girls.


Liz and I got back into Arusha, had lunch, did a little shopping and then were guests at David and Eunice Simonson's house. The Simonson's were Lutheran missionaries in Tanzania for over 40 years and are true legends in the country (started MGLSS) - especially among the Maasai people. In fact, their home lies in the foothills of Mount Meru on land that was given to them by the tribe. They have a lovely home designed in 5 circular, connecting, modern huts with beautiful gardens on the property . There is so much to say about these wonderful people, but I would recommend you read a book about their life called Under the Acacia Tree, by Jim Kloubucher. The Simonson's helped to bring the church, education, and hospitals to the country and have recently been recognized by the U.S. Congress for all their goods deeds. I have met them a couple times back in the states at OBA walks and functions, and at the wedding of their grandson, Seth, and my high school friend, Amber. It was an honor, to say the least, to get to go to their home today!