New Arrival (by Amanda)

It is with great joy that I share this good news. I believe many of you know my house-help Jeanette was pregnant. About a month ago she stopped working for me and found a temporary replacement to work in her place. I have missed her greatly during this time and wished that she didn’t have to go for maternity leave. She is as much a friend as she is employee. I was especially missing her a week ago. One day when I came home from class she was waiting for me! She had come for a visit. She looked great and we had a wonderful afternoon. We sat down and talked, had lunch together and made two loves of banana bread. At nine months pregnant she had walked 3 miles to come visit me. When I found this out, I of course drove her home that afternoon.

I had planned on going to visit her next week with another missionary just to see how she was doing and visit her. Now it is with great joy that not only do I get to visit her, but also her new arrival. Jeanette had a baby girl on Thursday and called to let me know Thursday night. This is her first child so I would ask for all to pray that she will begin motherhood in fine style and that God will grant her wisdom and peace as she begins to raise her. One of the interesting things I have learned recently is that Malians often do not name their children right away; they usually wait a week. I guess you’ll have to wait with me to find out!