Studies of Africa & Opportunities to Serve

Over these past few weeks, our Geography & Science lessons “sent” us to Africa (ECC weeks 18, 19 & 20). While there, we learned about an African safari and the animals that roam there, and learned about the different types of grasslands and how plants and animals survive on them. We also learned how to make and play a new game that is popular in Africa, called Mancala. It is a simple game that anyone can make with the use of an empty egg carton and some dried beans. The kids and I enjoyed learning this new game.

 

We also decided to try a recipe made with yams (sweet potatotes), since many people in Africa grow them. Road Runner and I liked the new dish, but Coyote and Daddy did not care for it. At least they gave it a try, and that’s all I ask. Here’s the recipe I used:

Easy Mashed Sweet Potatoes

1 can (29 oz) sweet potatoes

1/4 cup melted butter

1/4 cup milk

Brown sugar

Mash the potatoes with the butter and milk. Spread into a microwaveable dish. Sprinkle brown sugar all over the top. Cover and cook on high in the microwave for 5 minutes. 

 As we studied Africa, we also learned about various people who served as missionaries there, such as Samuel Morris, David Livingstone, and Mary Slessor. It was interesting to read their stories and how they all stepped out of their comfortable lives to minister to others. 

Aside from our usual school work, it was neat to see how various opportunities of service come up for us this past week as well. Most of the things we did were not intentionally planned, but it was great to have opportunities arise that allowed us to bless others. It is so important for us to be teaching our kids how to serve while they are young. Here are just a few things that came up for us:

• Awhile back, I came across a genetic research study conducted by investigators at Massachusetts General Hospital, who are trying to learn more about Tourettes Syndrome and its causes. The study involved anonymous questionnaires, phone interviews, and they asked Coyote to agree to have a blood draw for use in the study. At first, he was totally against the idea. But, after he thought about it for awhile, he agreed that it would be a good thing to do. So, recently, he had two tubes of blood removed from his arm. He was so brave and we hope that his participation in this study will help bring some needed answers.

• This past Friday, as I was taking Road Runner to her speech class, I noticed a sign for a blood drive taking place that day. So, I followed Coyote’s lead and also gave blood for a good cause.
• With Valentine’s Day approaching, we joined a couple other homeschool families at a local nursing home to pass out valentines to the residents. The kids enjoyed passing them out and seeing how it made the elderly smile. It was a blessing to be involved in that. 
• We also attended a homeschooling event at a library this past week and made valentines to give to those who are being treated for cancer.  

• My husband and son even took some time to fill our bird feeder so the birds could have an easier time of finding something to eat after all the snow and ice we recently had.

Eph 2:10 For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. (NIV)

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