Pancakes, Praise, and Pizza… June 27,2010

When I first heard about this trip, I was told about the food the children eat and I was warned that I should bring snacks and be prepared to lose weight. So I packed peanut butter crackers and granola bars and they are still sitting in my suitcase. It seems we have done nothing but eat and the food has been great. And the good news is that the team I am on loves to eat! So I am not the exception; I am the rule!
Today we woke up to pancakes; regular and banana. We had brought some maple syrup with us and it was like being at home with Steve cooking at the skillet. We also had sliced mango and it was very tasty. After breakfast we headed to the kid’s school, New Grace, where we attended their church. Needless to say, it was very different! It was in a one-room building, but it did have a floor. They brought in backless benches and the kids sat so many to a bench they were hanging on for dear life. And with that the singing started. There were about ten women in the front that started singing and dancing. One would be the lead for a while and then another would take over. The singing and dancing lasted for about an hour and the place was rocking. Even the muzungus were getting into it! I’m not sure exactly what we were saying but I do know we were worshipping. Then Phil (our missionary) gave a short sermon which was directed right at the kids. It was pretty amazing! Some of the kids just fell asleep within minutes. As far as I can tell they never stop moving. The church experience was so different – the sad part was they do take an offering which Phil has informed is then stolen by one person week after week. He’s tried to stop the theft but to no avail. So we all donated something very small (kind of hard to be a visitor and not contribute something) and then as we were leaving we gave a larger contribution to the widows of the neighborhood. I am amazed at the clothes these kids wear. Makes me so appreciative of all we have. Though I did see an Aggie shirt (Cody, Kari, Sam, John, Steve, Marvin & Tina you should be proud) he’s probably had it and worn it every day for two years at least. Most of the kids have been in the same clothes since we’ve been here. And they are dirty and ragged. It was just an amazing experience and I can see how Cody came home so changed. These kids really have nothing and yet they smile at the drop of a hat.

Then we took off and went to a resort called Mums. It was interesting because just about everything here is called a resort. We sat down and ordered; I shared a whole talapia (are you beginning to see a pattern) with Amanda, eye and all! Ok, Kari and Sam, this is the time you guys gag! After we ordered we left (yes, we ordered and left the restaurant) and went to go pick up Susan’s daughter Faith who goes to the private state school. Her daughter is as cute as can be. She joined us for lunch and once we got over the eyeball staring at us, the fish was delicious. We then went to town to do some shopping for essentials for the house. I’m still surprised that cyclists ride with no fear. They have no concern for cars what so ever and cars really have no concern for them. I’m surprised everyone doesn’t end up dead! Instead it is a symphony of honking horns.

When we got home we played with the Phil’s kids for a long time in the yard. With the camera I have instant attachments. Today I decided that if I was going to be in any pictures it was time to teach some of the kids how to be photographers. The hardest part was getting them to look through the viewfinder. That was a concept they just didn’t get. But after about 20 pictures with no heads they finally got the message and they just loved it. They loved looking at themselves after each picture. I will say that every time someone took my camera my heart was in my throat. But then I saw the smiles on their faces and it was all worth it.

When those kids went back to their house we went outside the gate and played with the neighboring kids who are even worse off then Phils. At least our kids have help and are getting an education and some guidance. Then after a dinner of homemade pizza (yes, I did say homemade pizza…you can tell how starved we are!) we sat around and started to get ready for tomorrow when it really gears up. We are beginning VBS tomorrow and the overall medical checkups begin Tuesday. There is so much illness we’ve been dealing with as we go. Thank goodness we brought a nurse because she’s been busy since we got here. Earaches beyond anything she’s ever seen before. We brought 20 boxes of Monistat 7 for yeast infections and they have already been used! Phil was overwhelmed by all the supplies we brought and again I want to thank each of you. This place has captured my heart. And the group is amazing!

I love each and everyone of you who made this trip possible. I really mean it when I say you made it possible. You are each on this trip with me. I think the emotions are building each day. I was able to speak with both Steve and Kari today (that was great) and I loved the time I spent on the phone. Kari good luck tomorrow with your test. I know you are going to be awesome! You always are.

Cody and Sam I hope Jared’s wedding was a lot of fun and that you are enjoying your stay in Dallas. You guys are in my thoughts and prayers. I love you megabunches.

Dennis and Michelle I am so happy for you. Congratulations on your pregnancy! May it be a trouble free and happy pregnancy. Enjoy the nine months – though they will seem to take forever they will go by quickly. You guys will be great parents. I think its great!!

I love you all very much. Enjoy the rest of your Sunday. I have to get to work on our clinic information for Tuesday.

Sue