Amani ya Juu - Nairobi, Kenya

This past weekend I had the joy and pleasure of visiting some friends in Fort Worth, Texas. One of those lovely friends I had the privilege of seeing was my dear friend Michelle, and it has been nearly two years since I have seen her. Two years ago Michelle was called out to the mission field and joined The World Race for about ten or eleven months traveling to a different country each month. And then she went to the G42 Leadership Academy in Spain. You can read more about her journeys and experiences at either of these places: world race blog and personal blog.

All this to say that while she was out globe trotting and changing the world she picked up this beautiful necklace for me. She knows me well. I love a big statement piece.

This piece was made by Amani ya Juu, African Women's Sewing Project. What is Amani ya Juu? - Amani ya Juu means "higher peace" in Swahili. Amani is a sewing and training program for marginalized women based in East Africa. Women from many African nations and cultures are learning to work together through faith in God who provides a higher peace that transcends cultural and ethnic differences. A great cause and I love this necklace. Check out their website to learn more.

So, now I just have to find the right outfit to where this grand piece with. Do you think I can find something like this by Sunday so I can wear it to church?

Maybe I'll just wear a simple, plain top and let the necklace speak for itself. Needless to say I love it and it just makes it even better that it comes from a good cause.

^Michelle and me this past weekend. I had to keep reminding myself it had been almost two years since we had seen each other last because it was so natural hanging out together that it felt like no time had passed at all. I am so very blessed.