Letter Day- Efrata and Nanese

I'm so far behind on this blog! I recieved 2 letters this week. Here's one from Efrata. By the way, I still haven't figured out the correct spelling for her name. It was again spelled Efrata, rather than Ephrata, by the translator.

(letter as translated)
Dan & Julie,

How are you doing? Efrata says I and my mother are fine. School fees, "teff" (crop,) oil, school uniform, cloth, shoes, socks, underwear, pencil, exercise book, pen, eraser, sharpener, bag, and medical services are given to me. With your christmas gift of 239.25 birr and birthday gift and my parents gift bedsheet, bed, cloth, water container, grains, and clothes were bought. Also for my birthday celebration.

I am happy for your letter. The school is one hour from my residence. (I asked how far she had to travel to go to school. I assume she walks.) I like to draw drawings. I attend grade 4.

I learnt from the Bible about Adam, Eve, Abel, Cain, and obedience.

What do you know about Ethiopia? What about weather in your area?

Please pray for my education to be a smart student and to be God's child.

Bye!

Efrata

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I was surprised to get a letter from Nanese because she aged out of the program back in September. The letter appears to have the date of 14/10/10 (10/14/10). This date makes works in regards to her leaving the program but I don't know why it took 9 months to make it to my mailbox.

Dear Dan & Julie

I am glad to write this letter but sad to tell you that I must leave the program as I reach the top age that the program required. How are you and your family? Here I am going well thanks to God. We will not be able to write letters anymore. Thank you for your help and support to me and my family that made me progress in different things. I learnt to love God and keep a better relationship with others. I learnt macrame, so now I can make belt, sandals. I thank you for being so patient with me. Please pray for me and my school that God be our protection. I will be praying for you and your family. I love you!

Nanese