So last night the power was out in my building...don't ask why...no one is sure. I walked in from the baby house fully expecting to heat up my left overs (in the microwave), eat, get some e-mailing finished, and head to bed. Instead I found a few of the missionaries eating my candle light in the other kitchen in my building. So I heated my dinner on the stove...thank you Lord for gas and went to join them.
One of the candles burned out because the wick was a little too deep, so Chris decided she was going to "fix" it. This started with the brilliant idea of pushing a match stick down inside but when that didn't work she went for a knife and was going to cut the candle down so she could get the wick out. Let me just remind you the power was out!
So I watched as she went to work on this candle...then the knife slipped, cut half the candle off, and Chris quickly jumped out of her chair. We all said in unison..."are you ok?" She said yes, yes and put her hand under cold water in the sink. We asked one more time, "are you sure you're ok?" She said yes, so we went back to talking. Then timidly Chris said, "...I think I might need stitches..." At that moment all you could hear was the sliding of all our chairs on the floor as we got up.
If you knew the people I was with this would be a little funnier...but let me just tell you each of our personalities shined. Celia (a Brazilian who speaks English) was first sure we needed to put salt on Chris's hand...to which Chris replied ABSOLUTELY NOT. Then she was on the phone calling "medical on call". We have a medical on call phone on the base in case of situations like this...there was no well Meghann's here...which I was perfectly fine with...so soon another nurse was on the way. Sharon (an American who works in the hospitality part of our center) sort of stood back and didn't say much until a little later. Heather (who sliced her foot open several months ago, cutting a tendon and artery) was saying we need to put pressure on it. And, I was attempting to look at it under the small amount of light I could produce with candles and flashlights. Medically I wasn't worried...it wasn't bleeding bad but there was some wax in it, and I couldn't really tell how deep it was. She could move her hand...but I quickly learned Chris has a fear of needles. So in her mind she had already decided we were going to send her somewhere where they were going to poke her.
So after we got Chris calmed down a little bit (in Portuguese there is a word...calma...it is just the best verb ever!)...it seemed everything she said was hilarious. First she tells us she really just needs to pee. So if we could wrap up her hand and just leave it that would be great. Then I was standing on one side of her with her head leaning against me...and someone told her not to look at her hand as the other nurse was taking a look at it...and she said, "All I can see is Meghann's cleavage." Yep that's right...in the midst of it all we were all laughing.
Anyway finally we decided Chris really did need stitches and sent her off to the clinic in the city (it is a very Westernized clinic where we would send missionaries or visitors). After 2 stitches and very numb hand as Chris said...She was back within a few hours...and on her way back I received the text...can you please re-wrap this when I get back...it's already falling off.
Well that sums up last night. Today was much less eventful. Our new little ones are settling in well and seem to now be ok with white people. They are talking (or at least jabbering) and smiling! Makes my heart smile each time I see them playing with the others and finding this place home. God sure does work miracles here.
Oh and as for Clotide...I got to meet her mom on Sunday. Ros and Steve (directors here) invited me to come with them to another project about 30 minutes north from here. It is out in the community (like 15 minutes down very small dirt roads). The point of this project was to start a church as well as provide a place for older boys, who grew up in the center but either have no family or are not able to go live with their family, to have a place to go when they "out grow" the center. Anyway, Clotide's mom lives out there and goes to this church. I got to meet her and pray over her during the service. It was VERY eye-opening to see the lady who raised a girl I have already grown to love. She is pregnant...probably about 7 months along or so. And owns absolutely nothing. Her 3 children already live with us...and one more is on the way. I'm just praying for God to do a work in her. I invite you to join me. Also be praying as the ministry decides how we are going to support her. There is talk of possibly building her a house...no decisions have been made.
Ok...that's it for now. I'm off to bed. Tomorrow I will have a roommate! Our newest nurse flies in tomorrow and will be living with me!
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Friday, September 25, 2009
1 is Home...but 2 New Critters have Arrived!
Let me just say...it has been an interesting few days. At our weekly staff meeting on Monday night I found out the center was getting 7 new kids this week! Between the bercario and the baby house we were to get 3. How wrong I was in thinking that since they were suppose to come Tuesday that meant they would be here?! No kids as of Tuesday night. Wednesday was a maybe. So about 6:45 Wednesday (which is pretty late around here...considering the baby house bedtime is 7:00), my phone rang and it was Chris asking what she should feed this new little boy. Point being a 13 month old little boy, named Agostinho, showed up with his dad. And he is ADORABLE, if I do say so myself.
As for his story...his mother died in April and his father has been caring for him on his own since then. He has the means to take care of him...as evidence by the honestly amazing job he has done up until now. For a little boy, who has had no breast milk since April it's amazing he's as strong and developed as he is. Anyway, for now the center has taken him in for a year in hopes that after that time he will be old enough that the father can look after him and be able to work. So for now, little Agostinho is settling into the bercario. Dionisio the only other boy there until now is feeling a little threatened...but altogether he is doing wonderfully. And I'm already in love (although he's still not too sure white people are ok to play with)!
As for our other new arrival...She got here late Wednesday night as well. Her and her 2 older brothers have come to live with us for now. She is 3 years old and we are calling her Clotide (said Claw-tee-gee) at the moment but have determined that her brothers don't go by the names we have on file for them...so possibly that is why she looks at us like we are crazy most of the time...or it's the fact that we are white...or that she now lives in a place with 35 other kids running around her constantly. Hopefully we will at least determine her name soon. Here is sweet little Clotide...
As for this family, their story is much different than the other. Their father is out of the picture and their mother has ABSOLUTELY nothing. She has been living in a reed house that she borrowed from someone else. It is falling down and most of the walls you can see through. This means the kids have been living, sleeping, and eating on the dirt floor with not much protection from the elements. So we have taken them in and the ministry is considering building them a home. Her health is a little worse than Agostinho. We have treated her for scabies just in case. Also she has infected sores ALL over her entire body. So we are working on getting those cleared up as well. As for her pot-belly that you can see...most likely cause is worms so we are treating her for that as well. Supposedly if they are bad enough you can see them come out of their poop and nose...I'm hoping and praying it's not that bad! Anyway...she is adorable and I can't wait until she gets comfortable and is able to let her personality shine!
I would ask your prayers for these two as they have been taken from normal and thrown into craziness. It definitely is a transition...and as I watched Agostinho's father leave his crying child Wednesday night I was struck by how great but how heart-wrenching this center is. I have been challenged since I got here to remember that the best life for these children is back with their families...as long as that is a safe place...so in reality our goal as a center is not to keep kids forever but instead to re-integrate them...sometimes a hard thing for me to accept.
But one of our own...Martinha 3 (at one point there were 3 Martinha's in the baby house...so she is #3) went back home. The story there was that she was living with her grandmother here in Maputo. Her grandfather got in a bad accident in South Africa, so the grandmother had to go take care of him. She left Martinha with a neighbor/friend, who locked her up in a room. This was reported and therefore Martinha ended up with us. Now her grandmother is back and so excited to get to raise Martinha! So there you have it...there are happy stories as well even though sometimes the bad out weighs the good! But I do ask you to pray for Martinha as she gets used to her new environment and that God places a protection around her from anything else that could happen.
As for me...I'm exhausted. Most of the bercario has been sick this week on top of our two new critters. I still haven't finished simple paperwork stuff that should have been done today...so part of my Saturday will spent catching up...but at least I have that time. Anyway, just prayers for great rest and continued strength! Much love to all and please be praying for Agostinho, Clotide, and Martinha!
As for his story...his mother died in April and his father has been caring for him on his own since then. He has the means to take care of him...as evidence by the honestly amazing job he has done up until now. For a little boy, who has had no breast milk since April it's amazing he's as strong and developed as he is. Anyway, for now the center has taken him in for a year in hopes that after that time he will be old enough that the father can look after him and be able to work. So for now, little Agostinho is settling into the bercario. Dionisio the only other boy there until now is feeling a little threatened...but altogether he is doing wonderfully. And I'm already in love (although he's still not too sure white people are ok to play with)!
As for our other new arrival...She got here late Wednesday night as well. Her and her 2 older brothers have come to live with us for now. She is 3 years old and we are calling her Clotide (said Claw-tee-gee) at the moment but have determined that her brothers don't go by the names we have on file for them...so possibly that is why she looks at us like we are crazy most of the time...or it's the fact that we are white...or that she now lives in a place with 35 other kids running around her constantly. Hopefully we will at least determine her name soon. Here is sweet little Clotide...
As for this family, their story is much different than the other. Their father is out of the picture and their mother has ABSOLUTELY nothing. She has been living in a reed house that she borrowed from someone else. It is falling down and most of the walls you can see through. This means the kids have been living, sleeping, and eating on the dirt floor with not much protection from the elements. So we have taken them in and the ministry is considering building them a home. Her health is a little worse than Agostinho. We have treated her for scabies just in case. Also she has infected sores ALL over her entire body. So we are working on getting those cleared up as well. As for her pot-belly that you can see...most likely cause is worms so we are treating her for that as well. Supposedly if they are bad enough you can see them come out of their poop and nose...I'm hoping and praying it's not that bad! Anyway...she is adorable and I can't wait until she gets comfortable and is able to let her personality shine!
I would ask your prayers for these two as they have been taken from normal and thrown into craziness. It definitely is a transition...and as I watched Agostinho's father leave his crying child Wednesday night I was struck by how great but how heart-wrenching this center is. I have been challenged since I got here to remember that the best life for these children is back with their families...as long as that is a safe place...so in reality our goal as a center is not to keep kids forever but instead to re-integrate them...sometimes a hard thing for me to accept.But one of our own...Martinha 3 (at one point there were 3 Martinha's in the baby house...so she is #3) went back home. The story there was that she was living with her grandmother here in Maputo. Her grandfather got in a bad accident in South Africa, so the grandmother had to go take care of him. She left Martinha with a neighbor/friend, who locked her up in a room. This was reported and therefore Martinha ended up with us. Now her grandmother is back and so excited to get to raise Martinha! So there you have it...there are happy stories as well even though sometimes the bad out weighs the good! But I do ask you to pray for Martinha as she gets used to her new environment and that God places a protection around her from anything else that could happen.
As for me...I'm exhausted. Most of the bercario has been sick this week on top of our two new critters. I still haven't finished simple paperwork stuff that should have been done today...so part of my Saturday will spent catching up...but at least I have that time. Anyway, just prayers for great rest and continued strength! Much love to all and please be praying for Agostinho, Clotide, and Martinha!
Monday, September 21, 2009
Vomit...the entertainment of my day!
Where should I start?? Today has been interesting (as you can probably see from the title of this post). It started out this morning with a visitor with a sprained ankle. After I wrapped that up and got him some meds, I was off to Baby House. I was met with Mr. Dino...who had a fever and wasn't doing great. Checked him out and decided we would wait out the day (he seems much better as of tonight!).
Here's Mr. Dino a few days ago...just so you can smile at how awesome he is!
Next, I went to grab some breakfast, chatted about Dino with Jannie (another nurse here), and my phone rang. The person on the other line was speaking in Portuguese...this is the first time I've dealt with this. Jannie was gracious enough to answer it the second time it rang...the tias in the nursery were looking for Chris! Got that taken care of. Then, I thought staff worship/church service would be a great start to my week. So I made it through worship, the sharing of testimonies...and Laura (another missionary here...who also loves football by the way!) sat down beside me with a FANTASTIC little special needs boy. I immediately asked if I could hold him...which was great until my phone rang again. All I could figure out was "sick" out of the Portuguese being said. I checked out the phone number and figured out it was the nursery again. So...that was the end of church for me. I was off to the nursery.
I discovered little Lucia had a fever. She felt hot enough I could probably fry an egg on her face...seriously! So I took the temperature, gave her some ibuprofen, and hung out for a bit. Her fever went up instead of down. :( Chris and I gave her a cool bath...she was FAR from pleased and the fever really didn't improve. This was the moment I started to question (in my head of course) why God sent me here to be a nurse. That is not the first time I've thought that since I've arrived...there are many times I've thought...I'm a new nurse who knows nothing (well in comparison to others), why am I doing this job...and quickly God reminds me, because I sent you. Anyway, I called in back up...Jannie came and took a look. Made me feel better just to get a second opinion. I'm still however praying for the day that when something happens I don't think, why me? Instead I think...thank you God for preparing me for this.
Point being little Luc (said "loose"), as I lovingly refer to her, still has a fever but it's at least down a bit, and she is now on antibiotics...so prayers for her improvement would be awesome! As for the rest of my day...I spent much of the day hanging out just to make sure Luc wasn't getting worse. I quickly made meds before I headed off to our Monday night business meeting on base. There I discovered that the base is taking in 7 new kids tomorrow. At least 2 and maybe 3 of them will be taking up residence in the Baby House...so look for their stories and pictures soon. And prayers that they are relatively healthy and that their transition into the center is a smooth one!
After the meeting I headed off to give out meds in the Baby House...I was already just a little tired and the kids were absolutely out of control. One bit two others, they were ALL screaming at once and running around like monkeys, and one decided to spit on me while I was cleaning out his ears...out of control I tell you! Anyway, one of the visitors who is here (a Russian nurse) helped me out with meds...and soon we escaped the madness to bring the nursery their meds and check on Lucia.
Let me tell you a little bit about Lucia. She HATES medicine. She gags, coughs, and often vomits. Seriously! So tonight thanks to another dose of ibuprofen and antibiotics she had 5 medicines we had to somehow get her to take. Chris decided she would try her hand at it. We were kind of laughing and talking to Lucia about vomiting...and not 2 seconds after Chris said something about how she really had on pretty nice clothes today and would appreciate them remaining vomit free...you guessed it...vomit was EVERYWHERE! Here is the part that was entertaining though...Chris went to put Lucia down and she immediately started slipping (as Chris said...like a granny on ice) in her own vomit that was ALL over the floor. We couldn't control ourselves...despite the horrible smell and the fact that Chris was covered in vomit and our sweet little Lucia with her high fever and all was soaked in vomit...we were dying laughing!
So yes, I ended my day bathing Lucia again and refusing to hug Chris (who thought it would be really great if we all gave her a big hug!). Point being even things we think are terrible can bring us great joy and laughter. Plus the bath brought down Lucia temperature finally! So here I am back in my room after a very eventful day. Just thought you should laugh along with me at the picture of a little girl unable to stand because the vomit covered tile floor she herself caused (maybe it sounds a little mean...but you have to laugh because otherwise you would cry)!
Next, I went to grab some breakfast, chatted about Dino with Jannie (another nurse here), and my phone rang. The person on the other line was speaking in Portuguese...this is the first time I've dealt with this. Jannie was gracious enough to answer it the second time it rang...the tias in the nursery were looking for Chris! Got that taken care of. Then, I thought staff worship/church service would be a great start to my week. So I made it through worship, the sharing of testimonies...and Laura (another missionary here...who also loves football by the way!) sat down beside me with a FANTASTIC little special needs boy. I immediately asked if I could hold him...which was great until my phone rang again. All I could figure out was "sick" out of the Portuguese being said. I checked out the phone number and figured out it was the nursery again. So...that was the end of church for me. I was off to the nursery.I discovered little Lucia had a fever. She felt hot enough I could probably fry an egg on her face...seriously! So I took the temperature, gave her some ibuprofen, and hung out for a bit. Her fever went up instead of down. :( Chris and I gave her a cool bath...she was FAR from pleased and the fever really didn't improve. This was the moment I started to question (in my head of course) why God sent me here to be a nurse. That is not the first time I've thought that since I've arrived...there are many times I've thought...I'm a new nurse who knows nothing (well in comparison to others), why am I doing this job...and quickly God reminds me, because I sent you. Anyway, I called in back up...Jannie came and took a look. Made me feel better just to get a second opinion. I'm still however praying for the day that when something happens I don't think, why me? Instead I think...thank you God for preparing me for this.
Point being little Luc (said "loose"), as I lovingly refer to her, still has a fever but it's at least down a bit, and she is now on antibiotics...so prayers for her improvement would be awesome! As for the rest of my day...I spent much of the day hanging out just to make sure Luc wasn't getting worse. I quickly made meds before I headed off to our Monday night business meeting on base. There I discovered that the base is taking in 7 new kids tomorrow. At least 2 and maybe 3 of them will be taking up residence in the Baby House...so look for their stories and pictures soon. And prayers that they are relatively healthy and that their transition into the center is a smooth one!
After the meeting I headed off to give out meds in the Baby House...I was already just a little tired and the kids were absolutely out of control. One bit two others, they were ALL screaming at once and running around like monkeys, and one decided to spit on me while I was cleaning out his ears...out of control I tell you! Anyway, one of the visitors who is here (a Russian nurse) helped me out with meds...and soon we escaped the madness to bring the nursery their meds and check on Lucia.
Let me tell you a little bit about Lucia. She HATES medicine. She gags, coughs, and often vomits. Seriously! So tonight thanks to another dose of ibuprofen and antibiotics she had 5 medicines we had to somehow get her to take. Chris decided she would try her hand at it. We were kind of laughing and talking to Lucia about vomiting...and not 2 seconds after Chris said something about how she really had on pretty nice clothes today and would appreciate them remaining vomit free...you guessed it...vomit was EVERYWHERE! Here is the part that was entertaining though...Chris went to put Lucia down and she immediately started slipping (as Chris said...like a granny on ice) in her own vomit that was ALL over the floor. We couldn't control ourselves...despite the horrible smell and the fact that Chris was covered in vomit and our sweet little Lucia with her high fever and all was soaked in vomit...we were dying laughing!
So yes, I ended my day bathing Lucia again and refusing to hug Chris (who thought it would be really great if we all gave her a big hug!). Point being even things we think are terrible can bring us great joy and laughter. Plus the bath brought down Lucia temperature finally! So here I am back in my room after a very eventful day. Just thought you should laugh along with me at the picture of a little girl unable to stand because the vomit covered tile floor she herself caused (maybe it sounds a little mean...but you have to laugh because otherwise you would cry)!
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Yep they are Tigers!
I think it is appropriate to share these photos with you today...a Tiger game day as well as a day made possible by a Tiger. Thanks to Tracey and her family for supporting me and making September 18-19 possible! (And a late Happy Birthday to Tracey as well! Be looking for an e-mail from me later today with more photos and stories about what you made possible!)
So today before the kids' nap time I decided it was time to introduce them to my beloved Tiger Paw! Here's what happened...
Meet Lucilia...she is the youngest of the kids that live in the Baby House and was getting her hair braided today...hence the messy hair. But, she was not so sure about the whole Tiger thing...
Meet Freddie...He was much more excited about it (or just getting his picture taken?)!
This is Freddie again...yep that's right...he is certainly ready to be a Tiger! Silly and smiling, that is how we like it!
Thanks again Tracey! And Go Tigers!
So today before the kids' nap time I decided it was time to introduce them to my beloved Tiger Paw! Here's what happened...
Meet Lucilia...she is the youngest of the kids that live in the Baby House and was getting her hair braided today...hence the messy hair. But, she was not so sure about the whole Tiger thing...
Meet Freddie...He was much more excited about it (or just getting his picture taken?)!
This is Freddie again...yep that's right...he is certainly ready to be a Tiger! Silly and smiling, that is how we like it!Thanks again Tracey! And Go Tigers!
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Off to the Bocaria...
Me with the kids at Bocaria!
This is Chris and our translator teaching about the voice of God!
This is one of the adorable little ones!So reactions...I had a difficult time leaving and watching all the little ones standing on heaps of garbage waving goodbye to us. They have NOTHING and yet they have uncircumstantial joy...something that comes only from a relationship with our Lord. I would really like to go on a Friday as well. On Fridays our teams go up on the dump and to the shanty houses to pray with people, do some health relief, and other mercy ministry. For now I work on Fridays so I can't leave the base...but I'm trusting sooner or later I'll get to go! I definitely have a heart for especially the children who live there.
Ok I'll leave you with this picture...as we drove into the dump to our right there was trash piled about 3 stories high. There were plastic bags picked up in the wind flying around like balloons. There were children running after our truck just to see if we had anything they could sell on the streets. To our left were shanty houses...a whole community of people who live, work, grow up in the dump. How different is this life than ours and yet joy was still on EVERY face?
Ok I'll leave you with this picture...as we drove into the dump to our right there was trash piled about 3 stories high. There were plastic bags picked up in the wind flying around like balloons. There were children running after our truck just to see if we had anything they could sell on the streets. To our left were shanty houses...a whole community of people who live, work, grow up in the dump. How different is this life than ours and yet joy was still on EVERY face?
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
South Africa Trip #1
Let's start with the phone call I received Sunday morning...it was Ros (one of the directors here). She was calling to tell me that we would leave at 10:30 and to bring a sheet because then I would not have to wash the one I used from the flat. I quickly found out that Iarrah and Marcia (the two Brazilian missionaries I was going with) had asked Ros to call me. So here started the language barrier.
I showed up at their house on base a little after 10:30...and quickly figured out that I would be riding in the back. Let me explain, we were taking the "ambulance"...or the clinic truck that has red crosses on the sides. It has a covered bed with windows...this was where I climbed in laughing to myself and made the decision that after this what else could happen? I was just going to laugh! Chris (another missionary) must have seen me from church as we headed out...and sent a text that said..."Oh bless you! It's going to be a long trip." All I said was...I'm laughing already and I'll see you Tuesday! One positive of this...I was a little worried about the long ride and the inability to communicate...not a problem when you are in the back of the truck.
And out the back...(and yes Hope the trusty backpack went along!)
My first experience crossing over the border was interesting. I was SO confused the whole time. I just kept following Marcia and hoping that I was doing the right thing. You have to get your passport stamped and something filled out for the car...and there were people EVERYWHERE in lines (or the clumps that Mozambicans use as lines). Basically it was CRAZY. Then we got back in the car...crossed the border...and had to park again and go get our passports stamped in South Africa...another line for the car...then we were off. It is SO amazing to me the difference between Moz and South Africa. There are orderly lines and clean buildings in South Africa...and that's just at the border.
I climbed back in the back...and we kept driving. I started to realize that in South Africa they use irrigation...something that does not seem prevalent in Moz despite the DRY hot weather. All the farms have green plants...there are banana and orange trees EVERYWHERE. And they have mountains in South Africa. I'm not going to lie I didn't expect mountains. We finally got to Nelspruit, it's 200km from Maputo...about 124 miles.
The lush banana trees of SA...
Yes mountains!
Our plan was to stay in the Iris Ministries flat there. We stopped for lunch...seafood was on the menu! It's good I have started eating pretty much anything that is placed in front of me. But, really this meal was good...grilled fish and fries! The only problem was I didn't have any rands (the money used in SA) because we don't use those in Moz. Marcia in her grace paid for my lunch! At lunch is also where I discovered that Marcia speaking "some English"...is kind of like someone in France telling you they speak some English. She understood pretty much everything I said...with a few exceptions...and can definitely form sentences and tell me anything I really needed to know! What I life saver!!!!
After lunch we headed to the flat...unpacked a little...and sat down. Within a few minutes we were all asleep in the living room. Later that night we went out to get a pizza. Nelspruit has pretty much anything we have in America. I went in nicer grocery stores there than at home! Honestly parts of it are more like a big city in America...where you can get ANYTHING you need! So pizza for dinner...then a movie. I read the English subtitles! It was about David Wilkerson a priest who worked with street gangs in NY. If you have never heard of him...check it out! I didn't know anything about it but really enjoyed it.
Monday we had to get up early and drop off the car to get the air conditioner fixed. We were driven over to the mall. The Nelspruit mall is something I have been hearing about since I got here. Now I know why. It is like a mall in a big city! It was amazing to be there and get to see all the home decor and fashions. Everything is so much different in Moz...just 124 miles away.
About halfway through the day I started to think about how much advertising and seeing things in stores causes our spending habits. Since I got to Moz other than food, printer paper (which really is for the Baby House), cleaning supplies, and a cell phone chip I haven't bought a thing. I've thought about buying paint to paint my room and the fact that I would love some new curtains (because mine are faded and if you touch them dust comes falling off) and that something to put on my walls would be nice...but honestly I just want something VERY African that I'm sure I can find on the street (that is buy from a street vendor). I know at some point I need a fan (because I have taken the one out of my kitchen...its falling apart and rusted but it works at the moment) and a microwave (the one in my kitchen takes about 5 minutes to melt butter something that should take 1 minute if that). Point being withing a few hours in the mall...I had bought a new skirt (it was $16 but still) and a lamp (again $16). It was just interesting to see my American way of thinking return so quickly...all of the sudden I wanted a cute room with all matching stuff and better dishes and...anything I saw to be honest. I still wanted to find things on sale...but a day earlier I didn't want them at all. Anyway...it was just a rough realization.
Another discovery...our mail is delivered to the mall. That was a little funny to me. For all those wondering, I was not able to get anything you have sent...I know several of you have sent things. I do know there is a mail strike and also there was miscommunication while I was there about what box is actually mine. Ros and Stever (directors) are going back this week...so hopefully when they return all will be sorted out and I will get all the things you have sent! Look for an update on the mail situation soon!
After a day of shopping we got the car back and headed for the flat. For dinner pizza was on the menu again. Iarrah REALLY likes pizza and apparently never gets it in Moz...so that is her SA food of choice! Night time entertainment was another movie in Portuguese that I had to read. (Deanna & Mom...the two people who have always made fun of me for not wanting to read subtitles...who knew I would be so relieved that a movie had subtitles?!)
Today we had breakfast at an American place called Mug & Bean...it's a chain from San Francisco. Then we ran into the HUGE pharmacy where we buy some medication that you cannot get in Moz and then headed home.
As for the return border situation...not nearly as great as the first. I quickly discovered that my visa was only a single entry. So I had to pay for another visa...for now I'm good for another 30 days...and in the mean time I have to figure out what to do next. I was not planning on paying every 30 days for another visa...but haven't figured out my other options yet.
Seeing these houses and many others like them made me start to think about the differences between SA and Moz. Obviously wealth is something people strive for in SA. It's important to have the best things...not just to have food on the table. Maybe you can understand it this way...in Nelspruit poverty is present, but its more like our poverty in the States. You see people on the streets begging but its something you can get away from. In Moz...poverty is EVERYWHERE. There is no escaping. I think that's the best way I can describe it to you.
Ok...well I think that completes the adventure of South Africa Trip #1. There were many funny conversations along the way with Iarrah speaking Portuguese to me and Marcia attempting to clean up the mess...but nothing major! One more funny observation...children don't have to wear shoes in SA. It is perfectly ok for them to run around the mall or grocery store bearfooted. Made me laugh a little because it's not like the family's can't afford shoes...that I understand. It must just be cultural. Anyway, all went well, I'm not sure how relaxing...but I'm back safe. I have tomorrow off and am hopeful to get to go to the Bocaria (city garbage dump) in the morning. Then Thursday-Tuesday I'm on in the Baby House...should be interesting!
I showed up at their house on base a little after 10:30...and quickly figured out that I would be riding in the back. Let me explain, we were taking the "ambulance"...or the clinic truck that has red crosses on the sides. It has a covered bed with windows...this was where I climbed in laughing to myself and made the decision that after this what else could happen? I was just going to laugh! Chris (another missionary) must have seen me from church as we headed out...and sent a text that said..."Oh bless you! It's going to be a long trip." All I said was...I'm laughing already and I'll see you Tuesday! One positive of this...I was a little worried about the long ride and the inability to communicate...not a problem when you are in the back of the truck.
Here's my view into the front of the truck...
And out the back...(and yes Hope the trusty backpack went along!)
My first experience crossing over the border was interesting. I was SO confused the whole time. I just kept following Marcia and hoping that I was doing the right thing. You have to get your passport stamped and something filled out for the car...and there were people EVERYWHERE in lines (or the clumps that Mozambicans use as lines). Basically it was CRAZY. Then we got back in the car...crossed the border...and had to park again and go get our passports stamped in South Africa...another line for the car...then we were off. It is SO amazing to me the difference between Moz and South Africa. There are orderly lines and clean buildings in South Africa...and that's just at the border.The dry dead ground of Moz...
The lush banana trees of SA...
Yes mountains!
After lunch we headed to the flat...unpacked a little...and sat down. Within a few minutes we were all asleep in the living room. Later that night we went out to get a pizza. Nelspruit has pretty much anything we have in America. I went in nicer grocery stores there than at home! Honestly parts of it are more like a big city in America...where you can get ANYTHING you need! So pizza for dinner...then a movie. I read the English subtitles! It was about David Wilkerson a priest who worked with street gangs in NY. If you have never heard of him...check it out! I didn't know anything about it but really enjoyed it.
Monday we had to get up early and drop off the car to get the air conditioner fixed. We were driven over to the mall. The Nelspruit mall is something I have been hearing about since I got here. Now I know why. It is like a mall in a big city! It was amazing to be there and get to see all the home decor and fashions. Everything is so much different in Moz...just 124 miles away.
Marcia and Iarrah at the mall! Game is like our Walmart.
About halfway through the day I started to think about how much advertising and seeing things in stores causes our spending habits. Since I got to Moz other than food, printer paper (which really is for the Baby House), cleaning supplies, and a cell phone chip I haven't bought a thing. I've thought about buying paint to paint my room and the fact that I would love some new curtains (because mine are faded and if you touch them dust comes falling off) and that something to put on my walls would be nice...but honestly I just want something VERY African that I'm sure I can find on the street (that is buy from a street vendor). I know at some point I need a fan (because I have taken the one out of my kitchen...its falling apart and rusted but it works at the moment) and a microwave (the one in my kitchen takes about 5 minutes to melt butter something that should take 1 minute if that). Point being withing a few hours in the mall...I had bought a new skirt (it was $16 but still) and a lamp (again $16). It was just interesting to see my American way of thinking return so quickly...all of the sudden I wanted a cute room with all matching stuff and better dishes and...anything I saw to be honest. I still wanted to find things on sale...but a day earlier I didn't want them at all. Anyway...it was just a rough realization.Another discovery...our mail is delivered to the mall. That was a little funny to me. For all those wondering, I was not able to get anything you have sent...I know several of you have sent things. I do know there is a mail strike and also there was miscommunication while I was there about what box is actually mine. Ros and Stever (directors) are going back this week...so hopefully when they return all will be sorted out and I will get all the things you have sent! Look for an update on the mail situation soon!
After a day of shopping we got the car back and headed for the flat. For dinner pizza was on the menu again. Iarrah REALLY likes pizza and apparently never gets it in Moz...so that is her SA food of choice! Night time entertainment was another movie in Portuguese that I had to read. (Deanna & Mom...the two people who have always made fun of me for not wanting to read subtitles...who knew I would be so relieved that a movie had subtitles?!)
Today we had breakfast at an American place called Mug & Bean...it's a chain from San Francisco. Then we ran into the HUGE pharmacy where we buy some medication that you cannot get in Moz and then headed home.
As for the return border situation...not nearly as great as the first. I quickly discovered that my visa was only a single entry. So I had to pay for another visa...for now I'm good for another 30 days...and in the mean time I have to figure out what to do next. I was not planning on paying every 30 days for another visa...but haven't figured out my other options yet.
Some of the houses we passed when back in Moz...
Seeing these houses and many others like them made me start to think about the differences between SA and Moz. Obviously wealth is something people strive for in SA. It's important to have the best things...not just to have food on the table. Maybe you can understand it this way...in Nelspruit poverty is present, but its more like our poverty in the States. You see people on the streets begging but its something you can get away from. In Moz...poverty is EVERYWHERE. There is no escaping. I think that's the best way I can describe it to you.Ok...well I think that completes the adventure of South Africa Trip #1. There were many funny conversations along the way with Iarrah speaking Portuguese to me and Marcia attempting to clean up the mess...but nothing major! One more funny observation...children don't have to wear shoes in SA. It is perfectly ok for them to run around the mall or grocery store bearfooted. Made me laugh a little because it's not like the family's can't afford shoes...that I understand. It must just be cultural. Anyway, all went well, I'm not sure how relaxing...but I'm back safe. I have tomorrow off and am hopeful to get to go to the Bocaria (city garbage dump) in the morning. Then Thursday-Tuesday I'm on in the Baby House...should be interesting!
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Packing for South Africa...
Ok...not really...I don't know what to pack and I had the urge to tell you all about my day. So here it goes:
So yesterday afternoon I was invited to a birthday party. It was to be hosted at one of the houses on the base and it was a surprise for one of the Moz nurses (Fernanda) who works in the clinic. I had no idea what I was getting into. I thought...food, cake, a little singing...back off to the baby house. Now I'm just sorry I didn't bring my camera because I don't have any pictures to show you of the next over 4 hours of my day.
But I showed up and helped with a little decorating...the ladies who were hosting it had already put up a HUGE tarp to cover their yard so it was shaded. They had tables out, table clothes, chairs, a gorgeous cake...the list is endless. I helped tie up balloons in the trees, a happy birthday sign, bring out the food. Seriously it was a HUGE to do. Then I discovered that they had sent Papa Steve (director here, who can speak Portuguese WAY better than me, but everyone kind of laughs at his elementary use of the language even though he has been here almost 10 years) to distract the honored guest in the clinic until we were ready. They told him to talk for 20 minutes and his response was...I can't speak Portuguese for 20 minutes! But he pulled it off!
Fernanda's children and granddaughter showed up also! We hid them away in the house...and called to ask Fernando to bring some paracetamol (acetaminophen in America) because one of the hosts "wasn't feeling well". She showed up to all of us, a great meal, cake, decorations...and was COMPLETELY surprised! Then we brought her children out as well! One of the other missionaries here, Sonya, gave a sermon of sorts...which Rubin (the only person who works in the clinic who speaks English!) so nicely translated for me. It was all about the strong women in the Bible and their love for their children. Sonya just wanted to honor Fernanda for all she has done here with our children as well as raising her own family! I was extremely touched by the love of all those who work in the clinic and their close bond with each other. They definitely are a family!
Next came gift giving...there is a song that everyone sings and claps to as each person picks up their gift and processes it to the honored guest. She was given many gorgeous things...I just wish I would have had anything to bring to her. Next time! Then we all sat down to eat. I'm still full right now (and its 9:30 at night) from all of that food at lunch time!
Next it was time for cake. There is a tradition here that the birthday girl or boy have to cut the cake...even little one year old Chelsia cut her cake! So the cake was cut...and I guess in the clinic the other Moz nurse loves to sing this song about who will get the first piece...and the second...and the (ok no, just the 1st and 2nd but still it was funny)! Somehow I ended up with this HUGE piece but managed to eat it all...it was great!
Then I thought maybe people would started wandering away...I definitely looked down at my watch and thought...I should probably go check on the babies (since Aurora was at the party too)...but nope...it was song and dance time. We all circled up and sang songs/I just clapped and everyone was picked to go dance in the middle. It was hilarious. I have to say this was my favorite part! Music is such a part of culture here and I love listening to their voices as they sing. They are filled with joy, thanksgiving, and hope...it sums up their way of life!
Other than this my favorite part must have been a serious of pictures taken. First all of the ladies lined up facing one direction with our front leg out...I felt like we were at prom or something...all of us laughing at once, the picture was snapped...I'd die for a copy! Then the men...they lined up as well, sucked in their guts, and showed us their muscles. It was fantastic! Last our 3 Moz nurses got together and struck some amazing pose each as the flash went off. These and many others were the moments I wish I had my camera. But, I couldn't help but think of all the funny jumping, posing, and goofy pictures I have of my last 4 years in college.
What similarities and then what differences these two cultures have?!
So yesterday afternoon I was invited to a birthday party. It was to be hosted at one of the houses on the base and it was a surprise for one of the Moz nurses (Fernanda) who works in the clinic. I had no idea what I was getting into. I thought...food, cake, a little singing...back off to the baby house. Now I'm just sorry I didn't bring my camera because I don't have any pictures to show you of the next over 4 hours of my day.
But I showed up and helped with a little decorating...the ladies who were hosting it had already put up a HUGE tarp to cover their yard so it was shaded. They had tables out, table clothes, chairs, a gorgeous cake...the list is endless. I helped tie up balloons in the trees, a happy birthday sign, bring out the food. Seriously it was a HUGE to do. Then I discovered that they had sent Papa Steve (director here, who can speak Portuguese WAY better than me, but everyone kind of laughs at his elementary use of the language even though he has been here almost 10 years) to distract the honored guest in the clinic until we were ready. They told him to talk for 20 minutes and his response was...I can't speak Portuguese for 20 minutes! But he pulled it off!
Fernanda's children and granddaughter showed up also! We hid them away in the house...and called to ask Fernando to bring some paracetamol (acetaminophen in America) because one of the hosts "wasn't feeling well". She showed up to all of us, a great meal, cake, decorations...and was COMPLETELY surprised! Then we brought her children out as well! One of the other missionaries here, Sonya, gave a sermon of sorts...which Rubin (the only person who works in the clinic who speaks English!) so nicely translated for me. It was all about the strong women in the Bible and their love for their children. Sonya just wanted to honor Fernanda for all she has done here with our children as well as raising her own family! I was extremely touched by the love of all those who work in the clinic and their close bond with each other. They definitely are a family!
Next came gift giving...there is a song that everyone sings and claps to as each person picks up their gift and processes it to the honored guest. She was given many gorgeous things...I just wish I would have had anything to bring to her. Next time! Then we all sat down to eat. I'm still full right now (and its 9:30 at night) from all of that food at lunch time!
Next it was time for cake. There is a tradition here that the birthday girl or boy have to cut the cake...even little one year old Chelsia cut her cake! So the cake was cut...and I guess in the clinic the other Moz nurse loves to sing this song about who will get the first piece...and the second...and the (ok no, just the 1st and 2nd but still it was funny)! Somehow I ended up with this HUGE piece but managed to eat it all...it was great!
Then I thought maybe people would started wandering away...I definitely looked down at my watch and thought...I should probably go check on the babies (since Aurora was at the party too)...but nope...it was song and dance time. We all circled up and sang songs/I just clapped and everyone was picked to go dance in the middle. It was hilarious. I have to say this was my favorite part! Music is such a part of culture here and I love listening to their voices as they sing. They are filled with joy, thanksgiving, and hope...it sums up their way of life!
Other than this my favorite part must have been a serious of pictures taken. First all of the ladies lined up facing one direction with our front leg out...I felt like we were at prom or something...all of us laughing at once, the picture was snapped...I'd die for a copy! Then the men...they lined up as well, sucked in their guts, and showed us their muscles. It was fantastic! Last our 3 Moz nurses got together and struck some amazing pose each as the flash went off. These and many others were the moments I wish I had my camera. But, I couldn't help but think of all the funny jumping, posing, and goofy pictures I have of my last 4 years in college.
What similarities and then what differences these two cultures have?!
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Oh the Adventures...
So you know how I have been sick?? Well now I have the flu...yep that's right fever, chills, sore neck and back, headaches...the same sickness everyone on base has been getting. Obviously I'm not great help in the baby house...but my fever is under control at the moment...so maybe I'll attempt meds for the night (maybe?). I haven't seen the kids since Monday and to be honest I miss them. But one of the missionaries here...Hilary has been absolutely amazing in her willingness to step up and cover for me! And everyone else has continued to check in on me.
As for exciting news...I found out yesterday that I will be leaving for South Africa on Sunday after church to return Tuesday. I have to be out of Moz by the 17th for my visa (the visa I have requires I leave the country every 30 days). The funny part is that I will be going with two missionaries from Brazil. One of them I've been told speaks some English and the other is learning...it should be interesting. But at least in South Africa I will be able to communicate because everyone there speaks English. Look for stories after I return though...because no doubt funny things will happen!
Oh and let me tell you about today...I have only left my apartment once (due to the sickness) but that was because the nurses and staff in the clinic have been planning a welcome meal for me all week. They cooked lunch, we sang and danced (yes really!), and Aurora (the Moz nurse who works with me in the Baby House) gave me my first capalona, which is the traditional dress of Moz women. It's a wrap around skirt of sorts...really just a piece of cloth. It really was great to get to officially meet all the clinic staff and realize that they are absolutely here to help me in whatever way they can...we just have a HUGE language barrier so that makes it difficult. But, either way they are all fantastic and the two Brazilians I will be going to South Africa with work their as well so hopefully our 3 days together will make for close relationships.
Ok...I think that is all I have for now. I'm back to bed to watch a movie and keep praying that my sickness runs away!
Oh and of course...Go Tigers!
As for exciting news...I found out yesterday that I will be leaving for South Africa on Sunday after church to return Tuesday. I have to be out of Moz by the 17th for my visa (the visa I have requires I leave the country every 30 days). The funny part is that I will be going with two missionaries from Brazil. One of them I've been told speaks some English and the other is learning...it should be interesting. But at least in South Africa I will be able to communicate because everyone there speaks English. Look for stories after I return though...because no doubt funny things will happen!
Oh and let me tell you about today...I have only left my apartment once (due to the sickness) but that was because the nurses and staff in the clinic have been planning a welcome meal for me all week. They cooked lunch, we sang and danced (yes really!), and Aurora (the Moz nurse who works with me in the Baby House) gave me my first capalona, which is the traditional dress of Moz women. It's a wrap around skirt of sorts...really just a piece of cloth. It really was great to get to officially meet all the clinic staff and realize that they are absolutely here to help me in whatever way they can...we just have a HUGE language barrier so that makes it difficult. But, either way they are all fantastic and the two Brazilians I will be going to South Africa with work their as well so hopefully our 3 days together will make for close relationships.
Ok...I think that is all I have for now. I'm back to bed to watch a movie and keep praying that my sickness runs away!
Oh and of course...Go Tigers!
Monday, September 7, 2009
Saturday...
Just thought I would tell you a little bit about what I did while most of you enjoyed a football Saturday...
So I was on in the baby house...but Heather (another missionary here...she's 23 and from England) invited me to join her for dinner. I didn't actually make it for dinner because of giving out medications, but they saved me some! She had 3 friends over who work at another base outside of Maputo. It's smaller and much more community based...but they are doing awesome things for the Kingdom! Anyway, after dinner...Heather had made dessert. She thought peach crumble and custard would be great. Well pouring hot custard into a plastic pitcher ended in a volcano affect. But, the peach crumble was amazing on it's own!
Then Heather made the comment...I want to worship. Yep that's the kind of people I live with! So we borrowed a guitar and James (one of her friends) started playing. God showed up in big ways! He definitely stirred my heart. One of the visitors who is here right now...Chris, said something that was exactly what I was longing to hear. He spoke up at one point sharing, "There is one or many more of you hear who are feeling insignificant and unworthy. God wants you to know you are not unworthy or insignificant because He lives in you. You are right where he wants you to be." I put my head down and cried. Then we all prayed over each other. James prophesied over me that...I am feeling like my decisions are inconsequential, but in reality just as those who wrote the Bible did not know at the time what they were involved in...instead of my decisions being inconsequential, in actuality God is using me to write a Bible of sorts...in other words the situations He's putting me in/the decisions I'm making to follow His pan will change lives and director many to Him.
All I can say is how exciting! I sit once again thankful for our faithful Lord and the fact that He always shows up in big ways!
So yes I was missing football...but my Saturday experiences far outweighed me missing football.
So I was on in the baby house...but Heather (another missionary here...she's 23 and from England) invited me to join her for dinner. I didn't actually make it for dinner because of giving out medications, but they saved me some! She had 3 friends over who work at another base outside of Maputo. It's smaller and much more community based...but they are doing awesome things for the Kingdom! Anyway, after dinner...Heather had made dessert. She thought peach crumble and custard would be great. Well pouring hot custard into a plastic pitcher ended in a volcano affect. But, the peach crumble was amazing on it's own!
Then Heather made the comment...I want to worship. Yep that's the kind of people I live with! So we borrowed a guitar and James (one of her friends) started playing. God showed up in big ways! He definitely stirred my heart. One of the visitors who is here right now...Chris, said something that was exactly what I was longing to hear. He spoke up at one point sharing, "There is one or many more of you hear who are feeling insignificant and unworthy. God wants you to know you are not unworthy or insignificant because He lives in you. You are right where he wants you to be." I put my head down and cried. Then we all prayed over each other. James prophesied over me that...I am feeling like my decisions are inconsequential, but in reality just as those who wrote the Bible did not know at the time what they were involved in...instead of my decisions being inconsequential, in actuality God is using me to write a Bible of sorts...in other words the situations He's putting me in/the decisions I'm making to follow His pan will change lives and director many to Him.
All I can say is how exciting! I sit once again thankful for our faithful Lord and the fact that He always shows up in big ways!
So yes I was missing football...but my Saturday experiences far outweighed me missing football.
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Here the nursing begins...and football!
So until Thursday most of the babies were relatively well. Now we have fevers, ear infections, a stomach bug, and some type of flu. Please pray for the little ones...some of them are getting a little better while others are just sad. We're trying to get fever under control and problems solved at the moment...and I myself am trying to get well in the mix of it all.
I do sit extremely thankful for all the help I've had. All of the nurses here have been more than I could ask for in helping me diagnose, make decisions on treatment, and just helping with my confidence. There have been MANY Portuguese conversations during which I had no clue what was being said to me. I have done my best to express the few words I know in explaining when to give medicines, what I need Aurora (our Moz nurse) to do...but it is all frustrating...I just keep trying!
I do however feel like a nurse...I have been vomited on, bit, hit, wiped noses, given meds, done too many med calculations, began reading articles and looking up meds for ideas, loved on each little one who doesn't feel good (all in the span of 3 days). Not to mention all of the meds I've crushed, dissolved, and drawn up...welcome to pediatrics! I will say though, that most of the kids here take meds like champs! They sit like little birds and slurp up anything you put near them...there are the few though who don't think "medicamentos" are that yummy, but we play games and get those meds done anyway! Point being, to me that's a real nurse!
I would ask your prayers for all of the kids...for wellness and that no one else catches these bugs! Also, most of the center (older kids) have the flu as well...high fevers, coughs, stuffy noses, headaches, and stomach issues. I would ask that you pray for wellness for all!
And...as for me...today is a little sad for me because if you're not aware college football has started again. Clemson football has been such a HUGE part of who I am. I'm not sure how to feel about missing the first game today. I definitely feel like I'm missing out, but at the same time know this is where I'm suppose to be. All those who are getting to partake in football I'm slightly jealous of you and expect you to soak in every minute of it! Anyway, if you're going to the Clemson game today PLEASE CHEER LOUD! And as always...Go Tigers!
I do sit extremely thankful for all the help I've had. All of the nurses here have been more than I could ask for in helping me diagnose, make decisions on treatment, and just helping with my confidence. There have been MANY Portuguese conversations during which I had no clue what was being said to me. I have done my best to express the few words I know in explaining when to give medicines, what I need Aurora (our Moz nurse) to do...but it is all frustrating...I just keep trying!
I do however feel like a nurse...I have been vomited on, bit, hit, wiped noses, given meds, done too many med calculations, began reading articles and looking up meds for ideas, loved on each little one who doesn't feel good (all in the span of 3 days). Not to mention all of the meds I've crushed, dissolved, and drawn up...welcome to pediatrics! I will say though, that most of the kids here take meds like champs! They sit like little birds and slurp up anything you put near them...there are the few though who don't think "medicamentos" are that yummy, but we play games and get those meds done anyway! Point being, to me that's a real nurse!
I would ask your prayers for all of the kids...for wellness and that no one else catches these bugs! Also, most of the center (older kids) have the flu as well...high fevers, coughs, stuffy noses, headaches, and stomach issues. I would ask that you pray for wellness for all!
And...as for me...today is a little sad for me because if you're not aware college football has started again. Clemson football has been such a HUGE part of who I am. I'm not sure how to feel about missing the first game today. I definitely feel like I'm missing out, but at the same time know this is where I'm suppose to be. All those who are getting to partake in football I'm slightly jealous of you and expect you to soak in every minute of it! Anyway, if you're going to the Clemson game today PLEASE CHEER LOUD! And as always...Go Tigers!
A picture of my beloved Death Valley! I shall miss you today/this season!
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Thankful...
I have said this several times in the last few days...some things about moving here have been VERY simple and others have been VERY hard. I sit tonight and realize how thankful I am for little things as well as many great big things in my life. So here it goes...a list of thanksgiving!
1~ Provision: I am quickly becoming more and more aware of the provision set out for me. I am extremely thankful for all of the supporters who stepped out in faith to come on board and support me in this ministry. Seriously without your faithfulness and obedience I would never have gotten here. Also, I am thankful for the molding of my heart God did this summer as well as prior and currently. As much as some days my flesh screams otherwise, I am thankfully trusting in the fact that God made me knowing I would fulfill this exact purpose...to serve as a nurse here at Zimpeto.
2~ God experiences: I am very thankful for the many times God has brought me to tears or grabbed my heart during these last few weeks. He has shown me exactly where I am weakest and strongest. I know He is changing me and that humbles me to thankfulness!
3~ Little things: My heart now jumps for joy when I pick the right key when attempting to open a door. I have 14 new keys that each open a certain door or lock on base...most of the time they all look the same to me. I am thankful when I have hot water. In the time I have been here I've had about 5 or 6 hot showers. I'm thankful for washing machines so I don't have to wash my clothes by hand even though they do dry out on the line. I'm thankful that babies and children have similar personalities and characteristics all over the world. This makes them simple to bond with. I'm thankful when a tia or other Mozambican greets me. So days I feel like an outsider...so these moments are precious. Also, on the VERY rare occasion I understand what someone is trying to tell me in Portuguese I am elated. Mind you these times are extremely few and far between. My mosquito net and zapper...these two things make me thankful each night as I prepare for bed. American food- the fact that we can get many American foods makes me excited. Today I had both 7Up and Pringles (sour creme and onion!)...yep thankful!
4~ Forgiveness/Grace: As I attempt to learn a new culture, I am reminded of forgiveness and grace on a daily basis. I am always doing something wrong...even when I have no idea. These weeks have made me realize how important it is to give away forgiveness easily and live through grace. I stand very appreciative.
Ok, I think you get the picture. Small things make me joyful and the same small things humble me to thankfulness. Big things have been hard to cope with but still are bringing about a huge place of thankfulness in my heart. As I think about where I am, in a developing country, where many live on less than a $1 a day...I could cry to think of the amazing place and family I grew up in. It seems unfair, yet all we can do is be thankful for what God has given us.
I think I'll leave you with that thought...hope all is well and the Lord is blessing each one of you as much as He is me. Much Love!
Oh forgot...as for my "welcome crud"...I'm getting better each day. Definitely not 100% yet, but at least my head isn't pounding all day anymore! Thank you for the prayers...keep them coming please!
1~ Provision: I am quickly becoming more and more aware of the provision set out for me. I am extremely thankful for all of the supporters who stepped out in faith to come on board and support me in this ministry. Seriously without your faithfulness and obedience I would never have gotten here. Also, I am thankful for the molding of my heart God did this summer as well as prior and currently. As much as some days my flesh screams otherwise, I am thankfully trusting in the fact that God made me knowing I would fulfill this exact purpose...to serve as a nurse here at Zimpeto.
2~ God experiences: I am very thankful for the many times God has brought me to tears or grabbed my heart during these last few weeks. He has shown me exactly where I am weakest and strongest. I know He is changing me and that humbles me to thankfulness!
3~ Little things: My heart now jumps for joy when I pick the right key when attempting to open a door. I have 14 new keys that each open a certain door or lock on base...most of the time they all look the same to me. I am thankful when I have hot water. In the time I have been here I've had about 5 or 6 hot showers. I'm thankful for washing machines so I don't have to wash my clothes by hand even though they do dry out on the line. I'm thankful that babies and children have similar personalities and characteristics all over the world. This makes them simple to bond with. I'm thankful when a tia or other Mozambican greets me. So days I feel like an outsider...so these moments are precious. Also, on the VERY rare occasion I understand what someone is trying to tell me in Portuguese I am elated. Mind you these times are extremely few and far between. My mosquito net and zapper...these two things make me thankful each night as I prepare for bed. American food- the fact that we can get many American foods makes me excited. Today I had both 7Up and Pringles (sour creme and onion!)...yep thankful!
4~ Forgiveness/Grace: As I attempt to learn a new culture, I am reminded of forgiveness and grace on a daily basis. I am always doing something wrong...even when I have no idea. These weeks have made me realize how important it is to give away forgiveness easily and live through grace. I stand very appreciative.
Ok, I think you get the picture. Small things make me joyful and the same small things humble me to thankfulness. Big things have been hard to cope with but still are bringing about a huge place of thankfulness in my heart. As I think about where I am, in a developing country, where many live on less than a $1 a day...I could cry to think of the amazing place and family I grew up in. It seems unfair, yet all we can do is be thankful for what God has given us.
I think I'll leave you with that thought...hope all is well and the Lord is blessing each one of you as much as He is me. Much Love!
Oh forgot...as for my "welcome crud"...I'm getting better each day. Definitely not 100% yet, but at least my head isn't pounding all day anymore! Thank you for the prayers...keep them coming please!
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
The Welcome Crud
So...as of Monday I have been a little under the weather. Everyone around here lovingly refers to this disease as the "Welcome Crud". I would rather not be welcomed this way if I had a choice! So if you would send up some much needed prayers for my health I would appreciate it. And, for anyone worried (especially you Mom!) it's just a bad head cold. My throat has been raw and now the coughing and sneezing have begun. Definitely nothing I haven't dealt with in the States...just not exactly the best thing as I am still trying to figure everything out around here. So thank you in advance for all your prayers.
As for life, it's going well. Last night I cooked for some of the other missionaries (figured the least I could do was return the favor!). A simple meal, but everyone loved it. I cut of fruit and put it out (because fruit is just part of nightly meals at the Glenn house) and everyone thought that was great! Also, I got to go out with some of the girls for dinner again tonight! Thai food was on the menu! It was very yummy and fun. Tomorrow I'm going to get to go see some other parts of the city with Sharon (another missionary here). She has the day off as well and offered to bring me to do something fun in town! So I'm headed to get some great sleep and hopefully feel as good as new in the morning. Much Love to All!
Oh and if you haven't seen them, there are MANY new pictures of everyone here on my photo page! They will make you smile!
As for life, it's going well. Last night I cooked for some of the other missionaries (figured the least I could do was return the favor!). A simple meal, but everyone loved it. I cut of fruit and put it out (because fruit is just part of nightly meals at the Glenn house) and everyone thought that was great! Also, I got to go out with some of the girls for dinner again tonight! Thai food was on the menu! It was very yummy and fun. Tomorrow I'm going to get to go see some other parts of the city with Sharon (another missionary here). She has the day off as well and offered to bring me to do something fun in town! So I'm headed to get some great sleep and hopefully feel as good as new in the morning. Much Love to All!
Oh and if you haven't seen them, there are MANY new pictures of everyone here on my photo page! They will make you smile!
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