Christmas Down in Africa

Krismasi Njema! (Merry Christmas in Kiswahili)

Our Christmas holiday was certainly different from years past, but God has blessed us with many gifts this year even if they didn't come wrapped.

Christmas cookie decorating

We shared some American style home made goodies with the staff of DCM during our end of the year Christmas party. Megan made pigs in a blanket, frosted sugar cookies, and baked some mango bread. The food was a big hit, and because many Kenyan households don't use ovens, staff members were especially impressed with these non-traditional foods.

The Trump Family (from left)

Shauen, baby Elijah, Josiah, Krista

After a 8 hour bus ride from Kisumu to Nairobi, we joined Pastor Trump and his family to celebrate Megan's birthday and Christmas. However, first we arrived to celebrate the birthday of Pastor Trump's second son, Elijah Thomas, who was born on December 22nd.

On Christmas Eve Day, we got to go to KFC for Megan's birthday lunch! Not only did we enjoy the only American fast food chain in Kenya, we topped off the meal with a stop at Planet Yogurt, a self-serve, pay by weight frozen yogurt shop. Krista's mom, who has been staying here made fantastic chili, helping to create a wintery atmosphere even if the outside temperature reached 80 degrees. Krista created a delicious three layer chocolate peppermint birthday cake .

Megan at Planet Yogurt on her birthday

Christmas Day we worshipped at the Lutheran Cathedral where Elijah was baptized, and we sang Joy to the World and Silent Night. We pitched in with Krista's mom and Shauen to make a tasty Christmas day feast, giving Krista time to rest and be with her new son. We at honey glazed ham, cheesy potatoes, 7-up applesauce jello, and indulged in home made egg nog and an apple pie.

We certainly miss our families and friends this holiday season, but thank God for the gifts He has given us. We rejoice in the incarnation of His son, the greatest gift of all. We hope everyone had a merry Christmas of their own, and as our gift to you, enjoy the entertaining video below to bring another smile to your face this Christmas season.