I wanted to let you all know that my parents arrived home safely and are doing well. I thank the Lord for his protection over them during their 4 month stay in Zambia, and rejoice that they were healthy and strong enough to visit their beloved "home away from home". Although the parting was hard, the Lord answered our many prayers, and Mother didn't even shed tears upon leaving (although she did tell me that she shed a few the weeks prior to leaving!) However, she did shed some tears that morning, but not about leaving....As they were saying their good byes to a number of neighbors, a few dogs attacked their dog, Oliver, who Mother has grown to like very much. Unfortunately, it was a bad dog fight, and very hard for Mother to watch, and she wept bitterly as she stood there watching, in my Dad's arms, hoping that Oliver would be alright. As far as we know, he is fine, but she was pretty exhausted and slept the 4 hour drive to the airport.
Dad and Mother are slowly getting back to "normal America life". Their luggage did not arrive with them, but was delivered to their door 3 days after they got home. It gave Mother a few days of rest with nothing to do, while Dad began catching up in his office. Due to a bad storm while they were gone, their phone and computer were not working, so this past week has spent getting those necessities back and running. As of Thursday, Dad still was not able to connect to the internet.
We enjoyed an evening with my parents this week as we talked about life in Nahumba. What a joy to now share these stories with them, on the other side of our journey. We will help each other keep the memories alive. As we pray for our dear Zambian friends, we are reminded of the many lessons we learned from them. This past Tuesday I had the privilege of sharing some of those memories and lessons learned with the ladies in our church. Thanks, ladies, for your interest and your encouragement....you're the Best!
If you are interested in putting a face to some of the people I mentioned in the blog, or putting a picture to the places we saw, stay tuned to the blog for a bit longer! Next week, I will be spending a few days with Sarah, and beginning with the first story in mid June, we are going to put pictures with the stories, so that you can journey with me once again, not only "hearing" about life in Nahumba, but also "seeing" a bit of life in Nahumba..and Choma...and Macha....and Sikalonga....and Ndola...and Victoria Falls...and yes, even some great big animals in the beautiful land of Africa!
We'll try to have them posted by the end of the week...that is, unless little Baby Mellinger decides to make her appearance a few days early! She is due October 31, but Mommy is ready anytime...and Mimi is on call to watch her big brothers!
Sunday, October 21, 2007
Friday, October 5, 2007
A Final Letter From Nahumba
While in Zambia, my Dad sent numerous letters out to friends and family. Recently, he sent this letter and many of you may have read it, but I know that most of my friends would not have gotten it, so I wanted to post it here. I loved reading it, because every story came alive for me, as I imagined exactly where my Dad was, who he was talking to or about, what the trees looked like, and so forth! Enjoy it....
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"The Lord your God is with you, He is mighty to save, He will take great delight in you. He will quiet you with his love, He will reign over you with singing." Zephaniah 3:17
Dear Family and Friends - Greetings from Zambia!
Jacaranda trees are in full bloom with their beautiful violet-blue flowers and the Frangipane trees in our back yard are setting buds for their large white flowers, even though we've had no rain since April. We experienced a fast transition from cold to hot weather, and today it was 90 degrees in the shade.
This week I attended the village funeral for a brother of the farm manager.
Since we have the use of a van, we provided transport for our neighbors. The village was about 25 km from Choma and an estimated 300 attended the service and burial. We arrived around 9 AM for a short outdoor service and viewing (head only). At 10 AM we followed the casket being carried to the burial site under a group of trees - a six minute walk. After the casket was lowered and a few short speeches, a zinc roofing sheet was placed on top.
Several men began mixing cement with stones and sand which was then poured on top of the zinc sheet, and covered with ground. After family members, relatives and friends placed flowers on top of the mound, we walked back to the village.
Funerals are very commonplace and there are more than 800,000 AIDS orphans in Zambia. Most BIC churches and schools are assisting the extended families with the care of these children. Macha Hospital is playing an important role with administering anti retroviral (ARV) drugs, which helps prevent expectant mothers from transferring HIV to their baby.
This past weekend we went to Maamba, 120 km (75 miles) from Choma to visit long time friends, Jarious and Emma Siadibbi. They have nine children - seven are in school. Maamba is a coal mining town and nearly everyone works for the mines and live in small sub-standard houses built close to each other. Mr. Siadibbi works for the Public Water System, owned by Maamba Mines. The Siadibbi's have no electricity other than that supplied from a small solar panel, and they carry water from a source nearby. We attended the Maamba BIC Church and enjoyed an enthusiastic service with excellent music and morning message. Fifteen years ago I worked with this congregation on their church building projects.
During the BIC General Conference a former farm worker approached me with "a problem." He completed his first year living in a new village and received payment for 100 bags (50 kg) of maize. He received five million kwacha and asked me to keep this "bundle" during the conference. This is the total income for their family of seven during the next twelve months, which is equivalent to $1,250 ($104 per month), for clothing, food, transport, church, school fees, etc. When he travels to Choma, he leaves his village at 2 AM, walks one hour, then gets on a large open truck which arrives in town around 6 AM. On Sunday and Wednesday, he and his family walk two hours to attend church.
Several weeks ago we had considerable activity in front of our house. Twelve men, hired by our phone company, were digging a trench to place the phone lines underground. Each worker signed a contract to work six days a week for a total of 30 days, and were required to dig a trench one meter deep and six meters long each day. Their daily wage was K 8,000 ($2) and could only be collected at the end of their 30 days. The ground was hard and it was difficult work, but as one man expressed, "We're lucky to have a job."
Esther gave them cold lemonade and homemade cake.
We continue to see many western influences and changes in Zambia since our first arrival 17 years ago. During my 30 minute walk to town I counted ten satellite dishes on houses - a few were guest houses. However, women nursing babies in public has not changed to western practices. Banks charge 19% interest for loans and pay 3% to 5% interest on savings. Building is booming even though costs of materials have increased. As an example, a bag of cement cost K 35,000 two years ago - it is now K 70,000 ($17.50).
While walking from town, two fellows carrying axes and about 30 years of age, came from another connecting path. After a little conversation, I learned they were from the local prison. When I asked if they work at the prison, the one responded, "No, we are prisoners and don't even have 500 kwacha." My first thought was to give them a bit of money to befriend them, but I had just come from the bank and I didn't want to pull 3 million out of my pocket. I told them they must be very trusted prisoners because they didn't have a guard with them. They "tried" to assure me they were. However, I kept glancing at those axes. It was a relief when they turned onto a different path. I thanked my Heavenly Father for His protection. Whew!
We never stop learning - nachies (tangerines) have become a favorite fruit for us, but the only ones available for several weeks were very small or green ones, which are usually sour. I told the street boys we want big orange colored nachies. They rushed off and brought oranges and claimed that's what I said. After more conversation we finally agreed I wanted "yellow" ones. I felt relieved when they didn't bring lemons.
We enjoy being part of a Wednesday night Bible Study which is one of several groups for Nahumba Church. The venue, worship leader, and speaker rotates each week. We've had interesting discussions and an opportunity to learn to know our neighbors in different ways.
Our house has been very quiet the past two weeks since our daughter Beth, her husband and their son, left us. It was a special joy to have Beth and Matt with us since our arrival in June. They went home with many memories and new friendships.
We plan to arrive home on October 14th. Our good-byes will be difficult - perhaps we should say, "Till we meet again." We know we've learned more from the Nationals than they learned from us. And, they are very content with having so little.
We'll try to re-adjust our vocabulary a bit and say tangerine rather than nachie, gasoline vs petrol, wrench vs spanner, flashlight vs torch, faucet vs tap, stove vs cooker, drug store vs chemist, doctor's office vs surgery, jello vs jelly, hamburg vs mince, and reflect on Ecclesiastes 3:1, which reads, "There is an opportune time to do things, a right time for everything." We're looking forward to a time of re-connecting with many of you during the coming months.
Thanks for your letters, cards, prayers, and support.
Love and Blessings,
Dick and Esther (Ettie)
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"The Lord your God is with you, He is mighty to save, He will take great delight in you. He will quiet you with his love, He will reign over you with singing." Zephaniah 3:17
Dear Family and Friends - Greetings from Zambia!
Jacaranda trees are in full bloom with their beautiful violet-blue flowers and the Frangipane trees in our back yard are setting buds for their large white flowers, even though we've had no rain since April. We experienced a fast transition from cold to hot weather, and today it was 90 degrees in the shade.
This week I attended the village funeral for a brother of the farm manager.
Since we have the use of a van, we provided transport for our neighbors. The village was about 25 km from Choma and an estimated 300 attended the service and burial. We arrived around 9 AM for a short outdoor service and viewing (head only). At 10 AM we followed the casket being carried to the burial site under a group of trees - a six minute walk. After the casket was lowered and a few short speeches, a zinc roofing sheet was placed on top.
Several men began mixing cement with stones and sand which was then poured on top of the zinc sheet, and covered with ground. After family members, relatives and friends placed flowers on top of the mound, we walked back to the village.
Funerals are very commonplace and there are more than 800,000 AIDS orphans in Zambia. Most BIC churches and schools are assisting the extended families with the care of these children. Macha Hospital is playing an important role with administering anti retroviral (ARV) drugs, which helps prevent expectant mothers from transferring HIV to their baby.
This past weekend we went to Maamba, 120 km (75 miles) from Choma to visit long time friends, Jarious and Emma Siadibbi. They have nine children - seven are in school. Maamba is a coal mining town and nearly everyone works for the mines and live in small sub-standard houses built close to each other. Mr. Siadibbi works for the Public Water System, owned by Maamba Mines. The Siadibbi's have no electricity other than that supplied from a small solar panel, and they carry water from a source nearby. We attended the Maamba BIC Church and enjoyed an enthusiastic service with excellent music and morning message. Fifteen years ago I worked with this congregation on their church building projects.
During the BIC General Conference a former farm worker approached me with "a problem." He completed his first year living in a new village and received payment for 100 bags (50 kg) of maize. He received five million kwacha and asked me to keep this "bundle" during the conference. This is the total income for their family of seven during the next twelve months, which is equivalent to $1,250 ($104 per month), for clothing, food, transport, church, school fees, etc. When he travels to Choma, he leaves his village at 2 AM, walks one hour, then gets on a large open truck which arrives in town around 6 AM. On Sunday and Wednesday, he and his family walk two hours to attend church.
Several weeks ago we had considerable activity in front of our house. Twelve men, hired by our phone company, were digging a trench to place the phone lines underground. Each worker signed a contract to work six days a week for a total of 30 days, and were required to dig a trench one meter deep and six meters long each day. Their daily wage was K 8,000 ($2) and could only be collected at the end of their 30 days. The ground was hard and it was difficult work, but as one man expressed, "We're lucky to have a job."
Esther gave them cold lemonade and homemade cake.
We continue to see many western influences and changes in Zambia since our first arrival 17 years ago. During my 30 minute walk to town I counted ten satellite dishes on houses - a few were guest houses. However, women nursing babies in public has not changed to western practices. Banks charge 19% interest for loans and pay 3% to 5% interest on savings. Building is booming even though costs of materials have increased. As an example, a bag of cement cost K 35,000 two years ago - it is now K 70,000 ($17.50).
While walking from town, two fellows carrying axes and about 30 years of age, came from another connecting path. After a little conversation, I learned they were from the local prison. When I asked if they work at the prison, the one responded, "No, we are prisoners and don't even have 500 kwacha." My first thought was to give them a bit of money to befriend them, but I had just come from the bank and I didn't want to pull 3 million out of my pocket. I told them they must be very trusted prisoners because they didn't have a guard with them. They "tried" to assure me they were. However, I kept glancing at those axes. It was a relief when they turned onto a different path. I thanked my Heavenly Father for His protection. Whew!
We never stop learning - nachies (tangerines) have become a favorite fruit for us, but the only ones available for several weeks were very small or green ones, which are usually sour. I told the street boys we want big orange colored nachies. They rushed off and brought oranges and claimed that's what I said. After more conversation we finally agreed I wanted "yellow" ones. I felt relieved when they didn't bring lemons.
We enjoy being part of a Wednesday night Bible Study which is one of several groups for Nahumba Church. The venue, worship leader, and speaker rotates each week. We've had interesting discussions and an opportunity to learn to know our neighbors in different ways.
Our house has been very quiet the past two weeks since our daughter Beth, her husband and their son, left us. It was a special joy to have Beth and Matt with us since our arrival in June. They went home with many memories and new friendships.
We plan to arrive home on October 14th. Our good-byes will be difficult - perhaps we should say, "Till we meet again." We know we've learned more from the Nationals than they learned from us. And, they are very content with having so little.
We'll try to re-adjust our vocabulary a bit and say tangerine rather than nachie, gasoline vs petrol, wrench vs spanner, flashlight vs torch, faucet vs tap, stove vs cooker, drug store vs chemist, doctor's office vs surgery, jello vs jelly, hamburg vs mince, and reflect on Ecclesiastes 3:1, which reads, "There is an opportune time to do things, a right time for everything." We're looking forward to a time of re-connecting with many of you during the coming months.
Thanks for your letters, cards, prayers, and support.
Love and Blessings,
Dick and Esther (Ettie)
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Friday, September 28, 2007
Sorting and Settling In
As I had expected, it has been more of an adjustment getting used to life on this side of our trip! It's wonderful to be home with family and friends, but I feel somewhat scattered in my life these days and there are times when my heart longs for the slow paced life of Zambia, where deadlines are rare, appointments are few, conversations are unhurried, walks are regular and waiting is expected and natural...and even enjoyed (most of the time!)
Don't get me wrong - I am glad to be home! I also loved Zambia, though, and I guess I was there long enough to appreciate their way of living, that does not come close to the proverbial "rat race"! So if you can't find me, don't worry - I'm just somewhere trying to slow down a bit, and I will return shortly! (Just kidding - I am a homeschooling mom and I couldn't really escape if I wanted to!)
I have been trying to sort through our many pictures, choosing the best ones to be shown after church this coming Sunday at our fellowship meal. Fortunately the guy doing it upped the number from 30 to closer to 100 - that works for me! It has been fun seeing the pictures and reliving some of our wonderful experiences. As I pass over the many pictures of people, I have had to pause and offer up prayers for them, praying that God will encourage their hearts as they endure the many hardships and challenges of their lives. At the same time, I recall that so many of them trust in the Lord for their daily bread and for daily strength, and that brings joy to my heart as I think about them.
My parents are doing pretty well, but as the time draws nearer for my mother to leave, please pray for her. As much as she loves her family, when she is there in Nahumba, she feels at home and loves it, and finds it hard to leave. Having been there, I now have a little understanding of her emotions and the pull at her heart. They are having some folks in for dinner over the next few weeks. Emma went to Lusaka for her son's graduation from college this week.
Here are some pictures that I took during our final days in Nahumba ...
Don't get me wrong - I am glad to be home! I also loved Zambia, though, and I guess I was there long enough to appreciate their way of living, that does not come close to the proverbial "rat race"! So if you can't find me, don't worry - I'm just somewhere trying to slow down a bit, and I will return shortly! (Just kidding - I am a homeschooling mom and I couldn't really escape if I wanted to!)
I have been trying to sort through our many pictures, choosing the best ones to be shown after church this coming Sunday at our fellowship meal. Fortunately the guy doing it upped the number from 30 to closer to 100 - that works for me! It has been fun seeing the pictures and reliving some of our wonderful experiences. As I pass over the many pictures of people, I have had to pause and offer up prayers for them, praying that God will encourage their hearts as they endure the many hardships and challenges of their lives. At the same time, I recall that so many of them trust in the Lord for their daily bread and for daily strength, and that brings joy to my heart as I think about them.
My parents are doing pretty well, but as the time draws nearer for my mother to leave, please pray for her. As much as she loves her family, when she is there in Nahumba, she feels at home and loves it, and finds it hard to leave. Having been there, I now have a little understanding of her emotions and the pull at her heart. They are having some folks in for dinner over the next few weeks. Emma went to Lusaka for her son's graduation from college this week.
Here are some pictures that I took during our final days in Nahumba ...
Sunrise in Nahumba
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Emma and me
Maudie gave me this chitangi dress the night before we left
A final hug with Given at the airport
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Catching Up
Well, it sure feels strange posting on this blog from my home computer. I can't help imagining my Dad sitting at the computer in Nahumba right now, where I used to write these posts from. As I work my kitchen, I continually picture the kitchen in Nahumba, where my Mother and I so often worked together, and where Emma often helped wash the dishes, baked bread, and washed our clothes. I even had to stop and think where my spices were the other day! I am slowly adjusting to home life, but my mind so often wanders to the dear Zambian people I quickly came to love. My mind often goes to what their life is like, and I'm not very motivated to buy things right now. I wish I would remain that way, but I know myself too well, and fear that the impact of their meager way of living will fade all too soon as I become a true American once again, consuming more than I need. I hope and pray there will be lasting changes; we'll see.
I wanted to share a funny story with you.....Monday morning I woke up a little before 5 AM (an hour before my alarm ) and I thought I heard Matt, which is quite early for him...for those of you who know how hard it can be to get him up in the morning....anyway, he walked out in the hall, was wide awake and looking perky. He looked at me inquisitively and asked, "Is there any reason why I am so wide awake so early?!" I laughed and said, "Yep - your body is saying you should be awake...it's almost lunch time in Nahumba!" Welcome to what they call "jet lag"! By today, it wasn't as early, and we are slowly getting adjusted to America-time once again.
I haven't had time to get my pictures organized or even on my computer yet, but hopefully in a few days I will be able to put some on.
I heard from my parents and they are doing well. I made some extra baked oatmeal (my Dad's favorite) and freezed it so they could have it for a few weeks. They are enjoying it and will soon be heading into their last 2 weeks in Nahumba, which is hard to believe.
That's all for now...not that life is boring in the burg; it's just not stuff you all would be interested in! So many of you from church commented on how much you enjoyed the blog. Thanks for participating in this wonderful season of our lives. I'm glad you could share it with us, even in the comfort of your own home! I will never forget my wonderful experience in Zambia and I have all these posts to remind me...thanks again Sarah!!
I wanted to share a funny story with you.....Monday morning I woke up a little before 5 AM (an hour before my alarm ) and I thought I heard Matt, which is quite early for him...for those of you who know how hard it can be to get him up in the morning....anyway, he walked out in the hall, was wide awake and looking perky. He looked at me inquisitively and asked, "Is there any reason why I am so wide awake so early?!" I laughed and said, "Yep - your body is saying you should be awake...it's almost lunch time in Nahumba!" Welcome to what they call "jet lag"! By today, it wasn't as early, and we are slowly getting adjusted to America-time once again.
I haven't had time to get my pictures organized or even on my computer yet, but hopefully in a few days I will be able to put some on.
I heard from my parents and they are doing well. I made some extra baked oatmeal (my Dad's favorite) and freezed it so they could have it for a few weeks. They are enjoying it and will soon be heading into their last 2 weeks in Nahumba, which is hard to believe.
That's all for now...not that life is boring in the burg; it's just not stuff you all would be interested in! So many of you from church commented on how much you enjoyed the blog. Thanks for participating in this wonderful season of our lives. I'm glad you could share it with us, even in the comfort of your own home! I will never forget my wonderful experience in Zambia and I have all these posts to remind me...thanks again Sarah!!
Saturday, September 22, 2007
Home Sweet Home!
Yes - we are home, and it sure is sweet! There is much to catch up with, since we did not have easy access to the internet this past week. Thanks, Sarah, for letting folks know we were alive and well! Ryan and Hollis picked us up from Dulles after a good flight of 18 hours, with a quick stop for re-fueling. Driving up to our home was more emotional than I expected. It hit me just how long I was away as everything seemed familiar, yet strange. But thanks to my sister and some friends, it was clean and fresh! And thank you Deb, for the wonderful, homey, comfy look - fresh flowers, mums in a big pot and chocolates on our pillows. Then in the fridge was dinner she made for us, food to get us through a number of days, and in the freezer were some more meals. It was wonderful not having to go to the grocery store today! Tears flowed as I felt a rush of emotions that seemed to say, "It is so good to be home!"
Driving home, I couldn't help think:
- it's odd seeing pick up trucks with no people in them
- there sure are a lot of cars driving around...and where are all the people that walk on the streets??
- no one is selling anything along the side of the road
- these roads are so smooth
- I miss 2 very familiar faces...I wonder how my dear parents are doing.
I did talk to them once this past week, and they are doing well. They took this weekend to visit some dear friends of theirs, the Siadeebe family (I don't think I spelled that right!). Their daughter Esther was named after my Mother 18 years ago.
South Africa was interesting...
- clerks from the rental car company discouraged us from driving at night to our destination (said they don't drive at night, even with a man, but we made it fine...thank you Lord!)
- security guards with guns at grocery stores
- men approaching us in parking lots offering to watch our car
- people encouraging us to lock our cars at all times
But it was beautiful too....
- we saw the BIG FIVE: buffalo, leopard, lion, elephant, and rhino, plus others like giraffes, zebras, monkeys, antelope, hippos, kudu, crocodiles, ostrich, etc.
- wonderful variety in the land: forests, mountains, plantations, grasslands, canyons, waterfalls, farmland, lakes
Thanks for your prayers. My heart is full as I think back over the past 15 weeks. I will try to write some things this week, but I also know my schedule will pick up as Matt gets orientated to school once again, as we try to catch up 3 weeks into our charter school. I hope to put some pictures on the blog as time allows. I'm sure there will be days that I will long for the slow paced life of Zambia, but it is good to be home.
Tomorrow will be a very special day...I get to see our daughter's family and our son's family...and our 5 sweet grandchildren. Oh what joy that will be!!! We are all gathering for a short but sweet reunion at Ryan and Hollis's home.
I must get to bed; it's been a long day! I got a few hours of sleep on the plane, but stayed up all day today, and now I am ready for some shut eye.
Driving home, I couldn't help think:
- it's odd seeing pick up trucks with no people in them
- there sure are a lot of cars driving around...and where are all the people that walk on the streets??
- no one is selling anything along the side of the road
- these roads are so smooth
- I miss 2 very familiar faces...I wonder how my dear parents are doing.
I did talk to them once this past week, and they are doing well. They took this weekend to visit some dear friends of theirs, the Siadeebe family (I don't think I spelled that right!). Their daughter Esther was named after my Mother 18 years ago.
South Africa was interesting...
- clerks from the rental car company discouraged us from driving at night to our destination (said they don't drive at night, even with a man, but we made it fine...thank you Lord!)
- security guards with guns at grocery stores
- men approaching us in parking lots offering to watch our car
- people encouraging us to lock our cars at all times
But it was beautiful too....
- we saw the BIG FIVE: buffalo, leopard, lion, elephant, and rhino, plus others like giraffes, zebras, monkeys, antelope, hippos, kudu, crocodiles, ostrich, etc.
- wonderful variety in the land: forests, mountains, plantations, grasslands, canyons, waterfalls, farmland, lakes
Thanks for your prayers. My heart is full as I think back over the past 15 weeks. I will try to write some things this week, but I also know my schedule will pick up as Matt gets orientated to school once again, as we try to catch up 3 weeks into our charter school. I hope to put some pictures on the blog as time allows. I'm sure there will be days that I will long for the slow paced life of Zambia, but it is good to be home.
Tomorrow will be a very special day...I get to see our daughter's family and our son's family...and our 5 sweet grandchildren. Oh what joy that will be!!! We are all gathering for a short but sweet reunion at Ryan and Hollis's home.
I must get to bed; it's been a long day! I got a few hours of sleep on the plane, but stayed up all day today, and now I am ready for some shut eye.
Coming Home ...
Dad, Mom and Matt landed safely this morning (after a nice 18 hour flight!) and are on their way home! Mom hopes to give a little update later today.
Thanks for your prayers,
~Sarah
Thanks for your prayers,
~Sarah
Saturday, September 15, 2007
South Africa!
Just a quick post to let everyone know that Dad, Mom and Matt have arrived safely in South Africa and are doing well. They currently don't have internet access, so I'm not sure when you'll hear from Mom. She sends her love to everyone and is looking forward to seeing you all soon!
Thanks for your prayers!
~Sarah
Thanks for your prayers!
~Sarah
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Final Night in Zambia
Greetings for the last time from Zambia! My next post will most likely be from South Africa, as long as we can get internet access.
First of all, I want to let you know that Mother has been doing much better the second half of the day. She is pretty much back to herself, although she has been a little teary today as the reality of us leaving is evident with an almost empty bedroom! We thank the Lord for the strength she is regaining.
What a fully packed day we had! Dad and Ken visited with Enock Shamapani in the morning, while Emma and I did our final loads of wash. Then later in the morning, I visited the compound, saying my good byes and handing out some final items to the pastor's family. There were 3 little girls, all from different families, that I bought dresses for, and today I delivered them - what a joy to see their faces light up in appreciation! Upon saying good bye, I was moved to tears quite a few times by the love expressed by these dear people.
This afternon, I assisted a 5th grade teacher for an hour and a half. He asked me to read to the class and I chose a book entitled "The Wise Decision". It felt a bit risky, not knowing anything the book was about, but as it turned out, it was a perfect choice! The Lord's hand guided me on such a good path and I thank him for his presence, even in little choices like picking out a story to read to a class! As it turns out, it was a great book about sexual purity, temptations, resisting peer pressure, AIDS, and abstinence. I was able to have a very candid discussion with the 15 students about these topics and they participated very well. We talked about fearing God, not just a disease, and we talked about having boldness to say "no" to sex, especially to get money. Having seen how many are affected by AIDS over here, has increased my passion to get the word out to the young people on sexual purity, and it was so fulfilling to have this opportunity on my last day...thank you Lord! We handed out quite a few of Randy Alcorn's book, "The Purity Principle", to folks here, so it is good to know that material is getting out (Thanks to Ken!).
After class was over, I was talking with a few of the students, and I thanked one young man, Brave, for his participation in class. I sensed a call upon this young man, to be a leader and influence for good among his friends, and told him that I belive God was going to use him as a godly example. I encouraged him to be bold and take a stand for righteousness. He thanked me and said that he has wanted to be a pastor for many years! That led to a time of encouraging him in his desires and gave me another person to put on my "Zambia prayer list", which has been growing every day!
Given blessed Matthew with a shirt and matching cap, that he also bought for himself and his nephew, who works with him. It was a kind expression of Given's appreciation to Matthew for helping him do some work while he was here; how thoughtful!
Moses and Noria, a dear couple that I have mentioned earlier, walked quite a few miles to say to good bye to us, knowing it was our last day. She came with yet another gift to me....she had given me some gifts the first time I met her! Moments like these, one does not have adequate words to say thank you.....
Emma presented me with a Chitangi tonight. She doesn't have much and to give anything is such a sacrifice....I love that gal!
This evening, we had the wonderful privilege of having dinner at Maudy and Guyden Makini...I have mentioned them in the past...they have nine children and he is the Headmaster at Nahumba Basic School. What a lovely evening, with cabbage, rice, Nshima, beef, and Mother's yummy mashed potatoes. Before we left, Maudy surprised me with the most gracious gift, and one that was hard to receive! The last time we were at their home for a meal (when Doug, Dar, Mindy and Brent were here), she wore a lovely chitangi outfit. We all commented on it's beauty and took pictures of her wearing it! Well, she handed the whole thing to me tonight as her gift to me! What generosity, what love, what kindness.....that's the kind of people I am leaving...that's the kind of people that I have come to love here in Nahumba. The list could go on and on...
We fly to South Africa early afternoon Friday and will remain there for a week. Given is driving us, and I think Emma is going along, so we will have a full vehicle as we ride our final bumpy ride to Livingstone. What a wonderful time this has been. Stay tuned for further updates from South Africa.
And to our dear friends and family...it won't be long! Yeah!!!
First of all, I want to let you know that Mother has been doing much better the second half of the day. She is pretty much back to herself, although she has been a little teary today as the reality of us leaving is evident with an almost empty bedroom! We thank the Lord for the strength she is regaining.
What a fully packed day we had! Dad and Ken visited with Enock Shamapani in the morning, while Emma and I did our final loads of wash. Then later in the morning, I visited the compound, saying my good byes and handing out some final items to the pastor's family. There were 3 little girls, all from different families, that I bought dresses for, and today I delivered them - what a joy to see their faces light up in appreciation! Upon saying good bye, I was moved to tears quite a few times by the love expressed by these dear people.
This afternon, I assisted a 5th grade teacher for an hour and a half. He asked me to read to the class and I chose a book entitled "The Wise Decision". It felt a bit risky, not knowing anything the book was about, but as it turned out, it was a perfect choice! The Lord's hand guided me on such a good path and I thank him for his presence, even in little choices like picking out a story to read to a class! As it turns out, it was a great book about sexual purity, temptations, resisting peer pressure, AIDS, and abstinence. I was able to have a very candid discussion with the 15 students about these topics and they participated very well. We talked about fearing God, not just a disease, and we talked about having boldness to say "no" to sex, especially to get money. Having seen how many are affected by AIDS over here, has increased my passion to get the word out to the young people on sexual purity, and it was so fulfilling to have this opportunity on my last day...thank you Lord! We handed out quite a few of Randy Alcorn's book, "The Purity Principle", to folks here, so it is good to know that material is getting out (Thanks to Ken!).
After class was over, I was talking with a few of the students, and I thanked one young man, Brave, for his participation in class. I sensed a call upon this young man, to be a leader and influence for good among his friends, and told him that I belive God was going to use him as a godly example. I encouraged him to be bold and take a stand for righteousness. He thanked me and said that he has wanted to be a pastor for many years! That led to a time of encouraging him in his desires and gave me another person to put on my "Zambia prayer list", which has been growing every day!
Given blessed Matthew with a shirt and matching cap, that he also bought for himself and his nephew, who works with him. It was a kind expression of Given's appreciation to Matthew for helping him do some work while he was here; how thoughtful!
Moses and Noria, a dear couple that I have mentioned earlier, walked quite a few miles to say to good bye to us, knowing it was our last day. She came with yet another gift to me....she had given me some gifts the first time I met her! Moments like these, one does not have adequate words to say thank you.....
Emma presented me with a Chitangi tonight. She doesn't have much and to give anything is such a sacrifice....I love that gal!
This evening, we had the wonderful privilege of having dinner at Maudy and Guyden Makini...I have mentioned them in the past...they have nine children and he is the Headmaster at Nahumba Basic School. What a lovely evening, with cabbage, rice, Nshima, beef, and Mother's yummy mashed potatoes. Before we left, Maudy surprised me with the most gracious gift, and one that was hard to receive! The last time we were at their home for a meal (when Doug, Dar, Mindy and Brent were here), she wore a lovely chitangi outfit. We all commented on it's beauty and took pictures of her wearing it! Well, she handed the whole thing to me tonight as her gift to me! What generosity, what love, what kindness.....that's the kind of people I am leaving...that's the kind of people that I have come to love here in Nahumba. The list could go on and on...
We fly to South Africa early afternoon Friday and will remain there for a week. Given is driving us, and I think Emma is going along, so we will have a full vehicle as we ride our final bumpy ride to Livingstone. What a wonderful time this has been. Stay tuned for further updates from South Africa.
And to our dear friends and family...it won't be long! Yeah!!!
Final Day in Zambia
Well, it is hard to believe that today is our last day in Zambia. Tomorrow morning we fly to Johannesburg, South Africa, and will spend one week just outside Kruger National Park before we fly home on September 21.
Last evening, my dear Mother was feeling quite exhausted and went to bed before 6 PM. This morning she was still very tired, although Emma and I encouraged her to take a bath, which perked her up a little, before she fell asleep again around 9 AM. Please pray for her. In the last few days, she has shed some tears thinking about my departure, so she is emotionally a bit weak as well. I'm sure she will be fine, but we sure would love to see her up and around so she can be strong for the trip to Livingstone tomorrow morning.
I will still continue to send Sarah updates while we are in South Africa, as well as when we return, through the time my parents come home. That way, those who know them can stay informed with how their final weeks are going. If I have time, I hope to post more pictures for you to see as well, but that will depend on how my adjustment to home goes!
A number of the local pastors joined us for lunch yesterday, and we had a good time interacting with them. Their job sure is different than the typical pastor in the states, and they live on very little. Their passion for the gospel to be spread is great, and one of them shared that with so many dying here, he lives with an urgency to share the Gospel with everyone he meets, since one never knows how many days they might have. I was affected by his comments, and realized that we should live with the same urgency, since we don't know either. When Ken asked them how many funerals
they do a year, they all sighed and shook their heads as if to say, "how can we keep track of so many?" I think one of them estimated somewhere around 40, but they all mentioned that few of them are members. The majority are for relatives of members. Ken gave each of them some books that he had sent here from our church, and it was like they received gold. One of them said, it is like giving them money; he feels rich with them. Moments like that, we realize anew how blessed we are.
Last evening we enjoyed our final Bible Study that was held in the pastor's home. We discussed some miracles of Jesus and were reminded of the great miracle of salvation. They prayed for our trip home and were kind in their encouragement.
Today we are washing for the last time, and saying our goodbyes to the dear folks in Nahumba.
Thanks for lifting up my Mother in prayer.
Last evening, my dear Mother was feeling quite exhausted and went to bed before 6 PM. This morning she was still very tired, although Emma and I encouraged her to take a bath, which perked her up a little, before she fell asleep again around 9 AM. Please pray for her. In the last few days, she has shed some tears thinking about my departure, so she is emotionally a bit weak as well. I'm sure she will be fine, but we sure would love to see her up and around so she can be strong for the trip to Livingstone tomorrow morning.
I will still continue to send Sarah updates while we are in South Africa, as well as when we return, through the time my parents come home. That way, those who know them can stay informed with how their final weeks are going. If I have time, I hope to post more pictures for you to see as well, but that will depend on how my adjustment to home goes!
A number of the local pastors joined us for lunch yesterday, and we had a good time interacting with them. Their job sure is different than the typical pastor in the states, and they live on very little. Their passion for the gospel to be spread is great, and one of them shared that with so many dying here, he lives with an urgency to share the Gospel with everyone he meets, since one never knows how many days they might have. I was affected by his comments, and realized that we should live with the same urgency, since we don't know either. When Ken asked them how many funerals
they do a year, they all sighed and shook their heads as if to say, "how can we keep track of so many?" I think one of them estimated somewhere around 40, but they all mentioned that few of them are members. The majority are for relatives of members. Ken gave each of them some books that he had sent here from our church, and it was like they received gold. One of them said, it is like giving them money; he feels rich with them. Moments like that, we realize anew how blessed we are.
Last evening we enjoyed our final Bible Study that was held in the pastor's home. We discussed some miracles of Jesus and were reminded of the great miracle of salvation. They prayed for our trip home and were kind in their encouragement.
Today we are washing for the last time, and saying our goodbyes to the dear folks in Nahumba.
Thanks for lifting up my Mother in prayer.
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
An Even More Beautiful Victoria Falls
Back in late June, you might remember me writing about beautiful Victoria Falls. Well, we vistited the Falls yesterday so Ken could see them, and Wow - they were even more amazing! Since it is dryer now, there was not as much mist, and we could see down to the bottom of the falls! What breathtaking views we saw! The falls flowed over the rocks, and we saw beautiful rainbows, and cascading falls into pools of water below. I just kept wanting to take picture after picture, and my photographic son always loves to pose at places like this, so he had a great time, acting like he was diving into the falls (and giving his Nana a near heart attack!) and posing, just like his younger brother Jared used to do! I often wanted to just stand there and take in the beauty...but sometimes I was trailing behind everyone else by quite a bit, so I had to hurry up...the view just seemed too beautiful to have to hurry up! But it was important for us to keep moving so that my Dad didn't have to drive too much in the dark. The road from Livingstone to Choma isn't as bad as the road to Macha, but it has its share of pot holes and the big lorry trucks really zoom by. My dad did a great job driving home, but I am sorry to say that I believe I looked a little too long at those beautiful falls, because we didn't get back to Choma till after dark! Sorry Dad!
While we were in Ndola, my parents spent the weekend in Livingstone, and my Dad surprised my Mother by taking her on a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. They had a wonderful time and some beautiful pictures to show for it!
Today a neighbor came to ask a favor...her husband was out of town and she discovered a tick that had found itself a home on her, where it was very difficult for her to see it. She asked me to help get it out. First we prayed. Then after quite a while of trying to get that thing to loosen its grip on her, by dabbing with rubbing alcohol and smothering it with vaseline, we decided to take a break for supper. A few hours later, I vistited her and we both gave thanks to the Lord as I jubilantly told her that it was gone! I took a good look at where it was, and am quite sure the entire thing had fallen off, with no remains in her skin.
It was a busy day, and I think the next 2 will be the same, with packing, saying good byes and trying to fit in all those last minute visits. Sarah called tonight, and I must admit, it was enjoyable telling her that I was packing!
While we were in Ndola, my parents spent the weekend in Livingstone, and my Dad surprised my Mother by taking her on a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. They had a wonderful time and some beautiful pictures to show for it!
Today a neighbor came to ask a favor...her husband was out of town and she discovered a tick that had found itself a home on her, where it was very difficult for her to see it. She asked me to help get it out. First we prayed. Then after quite a while of trying to get that thing to loosen its grip on her, by dabbing with rubbing alcohol and smothering it with vaseline, we decided to take a break for supper. A few hours later, I vistited her and we both gave thanks to the Lord as I jubilantly told her that it was gone! I took a good look at where it was, and am quite sure the entire thing had fallen off, with no remains in her skin.
It was a busy day, and I think the next 2 will be the same, with packing, saying good byes and trying to fit in all those last minute visits. Sarah called tonight, and I must admit, it was enjoyable telling her that I was packing!
Monday, September 10, 2007
Ndola with the Chanda Family
We are doing well! What a wonderful weekend we had in Ndola, located in the Copperbelt. We arrived in Ndola Friday evening and were greeted by Wilbroad and Zicky Chanda and three of their four sons, Timey (14), Blessing (11) and Paul (7). Their oldest son, Penjani, is in his freshman year at Pensacola College in Florida. Wilbroad is the pastor of Ndola Baptist Church (NBC) and we got to know them briefly this past spring over a meal we shared together during the Sovereign Grace Ministries Leadership Conference in Maryland. What a joy to spend extended time with them in THEIR country!
Here are a few random thoughts before I go to bed; I will try to write more tomorrow....
- Ndola, the 3rd largest city in Zambia, was ablaze with beautiful Jacaranda trees, full of purple blooms, and lining numerous streets.
- NBC is a vibrant church with expressive Christ-centered worship, passionate intercessors, friendly people and great preaching.
- NBC is hosting a city wide evangelistic crusade in Ndola, beginning next week. They will have an all night prayer meeting Friday evening, through the night, to kick off the crusade. They expect no less than 3,000 people, based on previous years. Pray for a good harvest; that many would place their trust in Jesus Christ and be changed for his glory.
-Wilbroad and Zicky have started a Christian pre-school for Orphans and underprivileged children, where the children are taught about God, and begin formal learning. More about Covenant Mercies tomorrow.....
- Matthew enjoyed being with their sons, and would have loved to stay longer!
Time for bed...will post more soon! This is our final week in Zambia, before we fly to South Africa and spend 1 week there, before returning home. It will be hard to leave in some ways....Nahumba will always have a very dear place in my heart and prayers will continually be lifted for those that I have come to love.
Here are a few random thoughts before I go to bed; I will try to write more tomorrow....
- Ndola, the 3rd largest city in Zambia, was ablaze with beautiful Jacaranda trees, full of purple blooms, and lining numerous streets.
- NBC is a vibrant church with expressive Christ-centered worship, passionate intercessors, friendly people and great preaching.
- NBC is hosting a city wide evangelistic crusade in Ndola, beginning next week. They will have an all night prayer meeting Friday evening, through the night, to kick off the crusade. They expect no less than 3,000 people, based on previous years. Pray for a good harvest; that many would place their trust in Jesus Christ and be changed for his glory.
-Wilbroad and Zicky have started a Christian pre-school for Orphans and underprivileged children, where the children are taught about God, and begin formal learning. More about Covenant Mercies tomorrow.....
- Matthew enjoyed being with their sons, and would have loved to stay longer!
Time for bed...will post more soon! This is our final week in Zambia, before we fly to South Africa and spend 1 week there, before returning home. It will be hard to leave in some ways....Nahumba will always have a very dear place in my heart and prayers will continually be lifted for those that I have come to love.
Thursday, September 6, 2007
Off to Ndola
Today flew by....did laundry and started packing up some suitcases. It's hard to believe the end of our stay here in Nahumba is coming to a close. As much as I am eager to be home, leaving here will be hard. These people are so dear and will always have a very special place in my heart.
Ken went on a bush visit today with Ron Herr, about 2-s hours away. Ron has been meeting with the people in this village for a while, trying to teach them how to build a dam so that when the nearby river dries up in the dry season, like it is now, they will not run out of water. Right now, they must walk 6-7 KM to get water. They would need to do a good deal of work if they want to get the dam built before the upcoming rainy season. I did not get all the details from Ken before he went to bed, so I will have to report more on his trip in a later post. He did tell me that the main thing he came away thinking was...."I should never ever complain about anything in my life." It's amazing how these people live.
Tomorrow we are heading up to Ndola, a city in the Copperbelt. Originally, we were going to take a bus for the 8-9 hour trip, but we were given some financial help that enabled us to fly, so we will leave from Livingstone in the afternoon, have a short layover in Lusaka, and will arrive a few hours later in Ndola. We will fly back to Livingstone Monday morning. My parents are going to spend a weekend holiday in Livingstone, so Dad will drive us there and then on Monday we will visit Victoria Falls, since Ken has not seen them yet. I am looking forward to see the difference in them since we were there 2 months ago. There will be much less water, and from what we hear, one can see down very far at this time of year, so we are anticipating a wonderful view.
Unless we can get some internet access over the weekend, there might not be any posts for a few days. But feel free to comment...and when we return to Nahumba, we will certainly give you a report of our trip.
Oh, by the way, we just found out that the huge truck carrying the copper machine arrived in Ndola today! It took them 5 and a half days to get from Choma to Ndola.
It seems that almost everyone here (except Matt!) got hit with some sickness...today Emma was not feeling very well. Fortunately the rest of us are doing well. Please pray for strength and healing for Emma.
It's getting hotter, but today it was also windy, so the dust sometimes really flies around. I am grateful for my sunglasses!
Another TIA moment...Today someone dropped off a wedding invitation for "Mr. and Mrs. Miller and guests"... the wedding is this coming Saturday (2 days away) and my parents do not recognize the names of the bride or the groom! Hmmm...
Have a wonderful weekend, wherever you live!
Ken went on a bush visit today with Ron Herr, about 2-s hours away. Ron has been meeting with the people in this village for a while, trying to teach them how to build a dam so that when the nearby river dries up in the dry season, like it is now, they will not run out of water. Right now, they must walk 6-7 KM to get water. They would need to do a good deal of work if they want to get the dam built before the upcoming rainy season. I did not get all the details from Ken before he went to bed, so I will have to report more on his trip in a later post. He did tell me that the main thing he came away thinking was...."I should never ever complain about anything in my life." It's amazing how these people live.
Tomorrow we are heading up to Ndola, a city in the Copperbelt. Originally, we were going to take a bus for the 8-9 hour trip, but we were given some financial help that enabled us to fly, so we will leave from Livingstone in the afternoon, have a short layover in Lusaka, and will arrive a few hours later in Ndola. We will fly back to Livingstone Monday morning. My parents are going to spend a weekend holiday in Livingstone, so Dad will drive us there and then on Monday we will visit Victoria Falls, since Ken has not seen them yet. I am looking forward to see the difference in them since we were there 2 months ago. There will be much less water, and from what we hear, one can see down very far at this time of year, so we are anticipating a wonderful view.
Unless we can get some internet access over the weekend, there might not be any posts for a few days. But feel free to comment...and when we return to Nahumba, we will certainly give you a report of our trip.
Oh, by the way, we just found out that the huge truck carrying the copper machine arrived in Ndola today! It took them 5 and a half days to get from Choma to Ndola.
It seems that almost everyone here (except Matt!) got hit with some sickness...today Emma was not feeling very well. Fortunately the rest of us are doing well. Please pray for strength and healing for Emma.
It's getting hotter, but today it was also windy, so the dust sometimes really flies around. I am grateful for my sunglasses!
Another TIA moment...Today someone dropped off a wedding invitation for "Mr. and Mrs. Miller and guests"... the wedding is this coming Saturday (2 days away) and my parents do not recognize the names of the bride or the groom! Hmmm...
Have a wonderful weekend, wherever you live!
Wednesday, September 5, 2007
Sikalongo and a Happy "Mimi Moment"
Today we drove the hour drive to Sikalonga, so Ken could put a picture to what we have been talking about. Mother and I packed a lunch and we were off by mid morning. It was a bit quiet, for a number of reasons. The Secondary School and SBI (Sikalongo Bible Institute) just re-opened this week after their month holiday, and many of the students have not arrived yet. Also, Dr. Dwight Thomas and his wife Carol are not there anymore. It just wasn't the same for Matthew! All his "American" friends that befriended him so kindly earlier this summer had all returned to the states :( However, it was fun seeing many of the folks there who remembered Matthew greet him so warmly when they saw him. The people are so kind. Numerous people asked my parents to please return to Sikalongo one more time before they leave; my Dad didn't give any guarantees! Ken really enjoyed an extended visit with Rev. Dennis Mweetwa, the principal at SBI. The rest of us did some other visiting, while the two of them had some time to get to know each other and talk theology, church, doctrine and pastoring. In case you forgot, this was the man who gave such an excellent message at one of the weddings we attended. I knew Ken would enjoy him. Ken gave a number of books to him, and he appreciated them so much. We thought he would be a good person to give books to, since he will be able to get them in the hands of the students, who will eventually be pastors. Dad gave us a good tour of Sikalongo and we headed home around 3 PM.
I had a happy "Mimi moment" this evening as we walked across the Basic School field towards the home of our weekly Bible Study. As we were about halfway across the field, little Choolwe, one of my little Zambian friends, came running across the field, smiling the whole way, and ran right into my arms as we hugged and greeted each other. This is the first time she ran so far to greet me! She is such a sweetie! It was just how my little grandchildren back home greet me and my heart melted! We then held hands the whole way to her house, where the meeting was held. Choolwe is the youngest of nine children, and her Mother is Maudie, one of the women I have enjoyed getting to know. Yes, it was indeed a "Mimi moment" and tonight was the first time I realized that it might be a little hard leaving these little children! I am sooooo looking forward to re-uniting with our grandchildren, and these little ones here tug at my grandmother's heart as they have warmed up to me, especially over the past month. Ever since my Mother spent those 3 years over here in the late 80's, she has called this her second home...her second family. Guess what?? I now know what she means!
Tonight at the Bible Study we prayed for little Ryan, my sister's 1 year old grandson, who is having a lot of difficulty with food allergies and has not been able to eat much of anything now. His parents, John and Jen, are awaiting an appointment with a specialist, so please join us in praying for little Ryan.
Given has come to the rescue once again....this time with my mother's hearing aid. She dropped it on the cement floor the other day and it broke, so we all thought she would be with one less hearing aid for the remainder of their time here. Well, Given, who is so compassionate and kindhearted, asked to see it. He said he would like to try to fix it with super glue. Of course, my mother was a bit apprehensive about that! She invisioned it sticking to her ear and never getting it out! But Given, in his calm, reassuring way, actually was able to talk my mother into giving it a try (the rest of us here doubted we would have been that successful!) In a short while, he brought it back and it looked like new! It's been working fine ever since. Mother is very happy and we are very proud of her for letting Given give it a try :) These Zambians...they have ways of fixing things that we don't even think of!
We have received some dear letters from home....thank you so much! My Mother shares hers with me, too. Aunt June, you are so faithful in writing and we love your letters. Thanks for sending me the newspaper article about our son Ryan; that was so thoughtful! Anne, your letter was absolutely precious! I'm so glad you have been enjoying the blog!
I will try to post one more time before our weekend trip. Ken, Matt and I are going up to Ndola this weekend, about 625 KM from Choma, to visit Wilbroad Chanda and his famiy. Wil is pastor at Ndola Baptist Church and has been attending our church conferences in the states for a number of years. More on that later....bye for now!
I had a happy "Mimi moment" this evening as we walked across the Basic School field towards the home of our weekly Bible Study. As we were about halfway across the field, little Choolwe, one of my little Zambian friends, came running across the field, smiling the whole way, and ran right into my arms as we hugged and greeted each other. This is the first time she ran so far to greet me! She is such a sweetie! It was just how my little grandchildren back home greet me and my heart melted! We then held hands the whole way to her house, where the meeting was held. Choolwe is the youngest of nine children, and her Mother is Maudie, one of the women I have enjoyed getting to know. Yes, it was indeed a "Mimi moment" and tonight was the first time I realized that it might be a little hard leaving these little children! I am sooooo looking forward to re-uniting with our grandchildren, and these little ones here tug at my grandmother's heart as they have warmed up to me, especially over the past month. Ever since my Mother spent those 3 years over here in the late 80's, she has called this her second home...her second family. Guess what?? I now know what she means!
Tonight at the Bible Study we prayed for little Ryan, my sister's 1 year old grandson, who is having a lot of difficulty with food allergies and has not been able to eat much of anything now. His parents, John and Jen, are awaiting an appointment with a specialist, so please join us in praying for little Ryan.
Given has come to the rescue once again....this time with my mother's hearing aid. She dropped it on the cement floor the other day and it broke, so we all thought she would be with one less hearing aid for the remainder of their time here. Well, Given, who is so compassionate and kindhearted, asked to see it. He said he would like to try to fix it with super glue. Of course, my mother was a bit apprehensive about that! She invisioned it sticking to her ear and never getting it out! But Given, in his calm, reassuring way, actually was able to talk my mother into giving it a try (the rest of us here doubted we would have been that successful!) In a short while, he brought it back and it looked like new! It's been working fine ever since. Mother is very happy and we are very proud of her for letting Given give it a try :) These Zambians...they have ways of fixing things that we don't even think of!
We have received some dear letters from home....thank you so much! My Mother shares hers with me, too. Aunt June, you are so faithful in writing and we love your letters. Thanks for sending me the newspaper article about our son Ryan; that was so thoughtful! Anne, your letter was absolutely precious! I'm so glad you have been enjoying the blog!
I will try to post one more time before our weekend trip. Ken, Matt and I are going up to Ndola this weekend, about 625 KM from Choma, to visit Wilbroad Chanda and his famiy. Wil is pastor at Ndola Baptist Church and has been attending our church conferences in the states for a number of years. More on that later....bye for now!
Tuesday, September 4, 2007
A Trip to Macha
Going to Macha was one of the trips we were hoping to take while Ken is here. We were trying to figure out the best time, and we were considering today (Tuesday). Well, Monday morning, Dad woke up with a great idea that we took him up on. Esther Spurrier was here in Choma and was heading back to Macha Monday morning. To save Dad a trip on that bumpy road to Macha, he suggested that Matt, Ken and I go back with her, visit Macha during the day, stay overnight at Spurriers and try to find a way back home on Tuesday. So that is what we did! We quickly packed up and left after our yummy baked oatmeal breakfast. Esther had a flat that morning before we left, so she had to stop in Choma to get it fixed, which took 2 hours, so we left around 10:00 for the 2 hour trip. We gave Esther her P.H.D. award - for being a GREAT Pot Hole Dodger! We have great respect for her, knowing how many times she has to make that long and windy and bumpy drive, often by herself! Upon arriving, we were greeted with a note from Elaine Thuma, inviting us all to come to their home for lunch! Elaine is the wife of Dr. Phil Thuma, who heads MIAM, Malaria Institute at Macha. How kind of her to have us for a delicious lunch of broccoli quiche, pumpkin bread and fruit salad with papaya, bananas, strawberries and granadilla. Dr. John Spurrier then gave us a tour of the hospital and surrounding areas. He is currently treating many patients with HIV/AIDS, and is seeing 85% recovery from those who take the prescirbed medicine on a regular basis. The challenge is getting the people to take it regularly.
I was surprised to see the good progress made on some of the new buildings since I was there 2 months ago. Esther showed us the rest of the area, including the Macha BIC Church and a dam that was built in the 1960's by Bread for Life, as part of a program to provide year-round water. She also showed us an airstrip that was recently put in, to fly doctors in to Macha from Johns Hopkins Hospital (via Lusaka or Livingstone). We so appreciated the Spurrier's gracious hospitality, considering that they were out of electricity for the 2 days prior to our arrival, and often do not have hot water. The sacrifices they make are great, and their ministry is so appreciated by the folks in Macha who love them dearly. It is obvious that their service to the Lord in Macha is making a difference. On a side note, being with them in their home was one of those "blasts from the past" for Ken and me...Esther's parents, Eber and Ruth Dourte, did our pre-marital counseling 30 years ago!
If you have been reading the blog, you will remember my new friend Heather, a nutritionist from the states. She is now serving at Macha, so she joined us for supper, which was wonderful! Every time Heather and I see each other, it's like old friends who haven't seen each other for a long time....big hugs and cheerful greetings! Now Ken has met her, and understands why I love her so much! To make a long story short, Heather needed to come to Choma to go to immigration, so we came back with her. When I get home, ask me about an interesting story that happened with Heather and me today :) On the way home, we enjoyed seeing some baboons cross the street, and we stopped at one point to take a picture of a "Jacaranda", a beautiful purple tree, that is beginning to adorn some of the fields.
Heather joined us for lunch, and then later this afternoon, after some good fellowship, a nice "Nahumba Walk" and a game of Rummikube, Heather and I said our tearful good-byes, but we really hope to connect in the states. We will certainly keep in touch via email! I thank the Lord for bringing our paths together and for bringing such a sweet friend into my life, while here in Zambia.
The last few nights Ken and I have enjoyed walking outside to enjoy the moonless sky that is studded with stars - beautiful!
We were also delighted to receive some books today that Ken had sent a month ago, to hand out to pastors and other Christians here. I was so glad they arrived before we left, because I was eager to hand them out! It would have been wonderful if they had arrived before General Conference, but we will do our best to have most of them distributed before we leave. People here are so appreciative when given books, and it reminds me of how rich we are to have so many great books at our fingertips. It's times like this that I realize how often I take things for granted. They have so little here. I would just love to pack boxes and boxes of worship casette tapes and Christian books that I have at home, not being used anymore. They would love them here. Again I find myself thinking....so many questions with too few answers.
I was surprised to see the good progress made on some of the new buildings since I was there 2 months ago. Esther showed us the rest of the area, including the Macha BIC Church and a dam that was built in the 1960's by Bread for Life, as part of a program to provide year-round water. She also showed us an airstrip that was recently put in, to fly doctors in to Macha from Johns Hopkins Hospital (via Lusaka or Livingstone). We so appreciated the Spurrier's gracious hospitality, considering that they were out of electricity for the 2 days prior to our arrival, and often do not have hot water. The sacrifices they make are great, and their ministry is so appreciated by the folks in Macha who love them dearly. It is obvious that their service to the Lord in Macha is making a difference. On a side note, being with them in their home was one of those "blasts from the past" for Ken and me...Esther's parents, Eber and Ruth Dourte, did our pre-marital counseling 30 years ago!
If you have been reading the blog, you will remember my new friend Heather, a nutritionist from the states. She is now serving at Macha, so she joined us for supper, which was wonderful! Every time Heather and I see each other, it's like old friends who haven't seen each other for a long time....big hugs and cheerful greetings! Now Ken has met her, and understands why I love her so much! To make a long story short, Heather needed to come to Choma to go to immigration, so we came back with her. When I get home, ask me about an interesting story that happened with Heather and me today :) On the way home, we enjoyed seeing some baboons cross the street, and we stopped at one point to take a picture of a "Jacaranda", a beautiful purple tree, that is beginning to adorn some of the fields.
Heather joined us for lunch, and then later this afternoon, after some good fellowship, a nice "Nahumba Walk" and a game of Rummikube, Heather and I said our tearful good-byes, but we really hope to connect in the states. We will certainly keep in touch via email! I thank the Lord for bringing our paths together and for bringing such a sweet friend into my life, while here in Zambia.
The last few nights Ken and I have enjoyed walking outside to enjoy the moonless sky that is studded with stars - beautiful!
We were also delighted to receive some books today that Ken had sent a month ago, to hand out to pastors and other Christians here. I was so glad they arrived before we left, because I was eager to hand them out! It would have been wonderful if they had arrived before General Conference, but we will do our best to have most of them distributed before we leave. People here are so appreciative when given books, and it reminds me of how rich we are to have so many great books at our fingertips. It's times like this that I realize how often I take things for granted. They have so little here. I would just love to pack boxes and boxes of worship casette tapes and Christian books that I have at home, not being used anymore. They would love them here. Again I find myself thinking....so many questions with too few answers.
Monday, September 3, 2007
A Sunny Sunday
Today was sunny, warm and windy...another beautiful day in Zambia. Ken spoke from Ephesians 2:1-10, a message he had just given at home the week before. He modified (simplifed) it a bit, for the church here, but focused on the gospel. How wonderful to be reminded of God's love and mercy that rescued us from our dead, enslaved, condemned state. What a mighty God we serve. He did a great job, and the interpreter did a good job as well! It was so nice to hear him again, even though it was a bit different being interpreted. It was hard for him to get "preaching" with all the stops and starts. It makes me appreciate those who preach that way on a regular basis. One guy said it was the first he has stayed awake during a message,
and another person mentioned that it was a very timely message for the church here.
This afternoon we took Ken to see Given's house. He sure is working hard on it, and hopes to get the roof on soon. We found out some details on the big machine we saw this weekend...it is 49 meters long, weighs 140 metric tons, and it will take 60 days to get from S. Africa to the Copperbelt.
Matthew enjoyed a yummy chocolate cake with Peanut butter icing, made by Erma Herr tonight, as the group of young adults met at their home and said their good byes to Matthew. That was his last meeting with them, since we will be in Ndola next weekend. More on that trip later....
Well, other than that, it was a quiet day in Nahumba. It's hard to believe we are in the teens, for days before our return home! That will fly by I'm sure.
Blessings to you all - Beth
and another person mentioned that it was a very timely message for the church here.
This afternoon we took Ken to see Given's house. He sure is working hard on it, and hopes to get the roof on soon. We found out some details on the big machine we saw this weekend...it is 49 meters long, weighs 140 metric tons, and it will take 60 days to get from S. Africa to the Copperbelt.
Matthew enjoyed a yummy chocolate cake with Peanut butter icing, made by Erma Herr tonight, as the group of young adults met at their home and said their good byes to Matthew. That was his last meeting with them, since we will be in Ndola next weekend. More on that trip later....
Well, other than that, it was a quiet day in Nahumba. It's hard to believe we are in the teens, for days before our return home! That will fly by I'm sure.
Blessings to you all - Beth
Sunday, September 2, 2007
Big Attraction in a Little Town
Word traveled fast around Choma town....a huge load was coming through town! So big that they had to shut off power to lift the power lines up out of the truck's way. So big that no one else could get through on the street. It was traveling at 20 KM an hour, and the truck had 160 wheels in front and 160 wheels in back. It came from South Africa and was on its way to the Copper Belt, and the estimated time from departure to arrival was a month. It was carrying a huge, rectangular machine, longer than our guest house, that was going to melt and cool copper and make copper blocks. There was a guy in the back helping to steer it, and another truck followed that had their "house"...a place to sleep, cook and rest when one of them were not driving. On the machine, were stickers "DHL", so we assume that is how it was being shipped to the Copperbelt, via DHL. We were hoping to find out more details on the news, but haven't yet. Friday night Given heard it was sitting along the street not that far away, waiting for the electric company to get the power lines out of the way, so he took his boys and Matthew to see it. Then Given called us early Saturday morning, with news that it was coming through, and he was driving out to see it. Did we want to come along? Dad, Mother and I went. What a sight! It seemed like the whole town was there! People running along the streets, trying to get a close look. When we got up to the Tarmac, it had just passed, and we wanted to get ahead
of it, so Given, with his great driving skills, took us on back, bumpy roads, so we could get around it, and we got to the other end of town, before it arrived. Some of us climbed up on top of the Hiace to get a good look (Yes, I managed, even in my jumper!) Mother wanted to, but Given and I vetoed her and she stayed on the ground with Dad! People were everywhere! I imagine it was the most people Choma town ever saw at 7:00 in the morning! What a big time in the little town!
By the way, Given is feeling better, almost back to himself, but still trying to get his strength and appetite back. Yesterday Ken felt the best he has in a long time, so hopefully he will be all healthy upon his return home. The other day he had his first experience of electricity outage....he was on the computer at the internet cafe and poof - everything went out!
The Children's Bible Hour week is over - the last day we had 23 children and it was a great joy for Mother and I to teach these children from the Bible and sing with them.
This past week we have been praying for some dear friends back home, who have just been diagnosed with returning cancer. Our associate pastor's wife, Cindy Michaels, and our son-in-law's Mother, Beejee Herr, are both such inspiring examples of women who are trusting in the goodness of the Lord as they walk through difficulty and the unknown. If you think of them, please join us in praying for them and their families.
It is September, and that's the month we return to home sweet home :) Yesterday we thought of our little grandson, Benjamin, who celebrated his 2nd birthday. We're sorry we weren't home to personally give him birthday greetings, but Lord willing, we will be there for the rest!
We are getting ready to go to our church service at Nahumba BIC, and I am especially eager to go this morning, since they are having a wonderful guest speaker from the states...the pastor of my favorite church, Living Hope Church, who happens to be my very best friend too!!
Leza amulongezye - Beth, Ken and Matt
of it, so Given, with his great driving skills, took us on back, bumpy roads, so we could get around it, and we got to the other end of town, before it arrived. Some of us climbed up on top of the Hiace to get a good look (Yes, I managed, even in my jumper!) Mother wanted to, but Given and I vetoed her and she stayed on the ground with Dad! People were everywhere! I imagine it was the most people Choma town ever saw at 7:00 in the morning! What a big time in the little town!
By the way, Given is feeling better, almost back to himself, but still trying to get his strength and appetite back. Yesterday Ken felt the best he has in a long time, so hopefully he will be all healthy upon his return home. The other day he had his first experience of electricity outage....he was on the computer at the internet cafe and poof - everything went out!
The Children's Bible Hour week is over - the last day we had 23 children and it was a great joy for Mother and I to teach these children from the Bible and sing with them.
This past week we have been praying for some dear friends back home, who have just been diagnosed with returning cancer. Our associate pastor's wife, Cindy Michaels, and our son-in-law's Mother, Beejee Herr, are both such inspiring examples of women who are trusting in the goodness of the Lord as they walk through difficulty and the unknown. If you think of them, please join us in praying for them and their families.
It is September, and that's the month we return to home sweet home :) Yesterday we thought of our little grandson, Benjamin, who celebrated his 2nd birthday. We're sorry we weren't home to personally give him birthday greetings, but Lord willing, we will be there for the rest!
We are getting ready to go to our church service at Nahumba BIC, and I am especially eager to go this morning, since they are having a wonderful guest speaker from the states...the pastor of my favorite church, Living Hope Church, who happens to be my very best friend too!!
Leza amulongezye - Beth, Ken and Matt
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
OOPS ... and a Preaching Opportunity
After reading my last post, I realized I made a mistake...I have met 2 men named Moses, and I used the wrong last name when I mentioned Moses and Noria....their last name is Mudaala, not Munsaka. I know most of you would not know the difference, but I am aware that some of my parent's friends who have been here in Nahumba might read these stories and all of you certainly would have caught my mistake! I really don't know much of what I am talking about, so bear with me! The other day I called a young boy Moongo for most of the morning. It wasn't until the real Moongo showed up, that I realized the first boy was Junior! He never corrected me! Oh well, that's how they are here - so kind hearted, loving and accepting.
Today we had 21 children for our Bible Hour! All the same ones, with one addition, and it went very well again. One of the cutest things happened around 9:20 this morning. We begin at 10:00, but at 9:20, I heard a knock on the door. There stood 2 little boys with big smiles, ready to come in! I chuckled as I thought to myself that this is not very typical...being late is customary in Zambia...but these little guys were ready to go and made sure they didn't miss a minute of Bible Hour! Since we weren't quite ready, I had them play outside for a little while, until more came (many of them arrived by 9:45!). They sure were eager!
This afternoon I had a wonderful time of fellowship with Maudie Makani, the mother of 9 children. What a dear lady! She is a devout woman of prayer and it was a pleasure to sit and chat with her about parenting, prayer, church life, godliness, trials and joys. She, along with four or five other women, rise as early as 4:00 AM a few days a week to gather for intercessory prayer. During General Conference, they did that every morning. She commented how when she is praying faithfully and seeking the Lord on a consistent basis, she is free from sickness and physically strong. Quite contrary to what one might naturally think, but that's our God - He becomes our strength in our weakness.
This evening we had our weekly Wednesday evening Bible Study, and it was a special treat to have Ken join us. The pastor of Nahumba BIC was there, as well as Bishop Hammakang'andu. Afterwards, one of the ladies commented how wonderful it was to have Ken there, and how much she appreciated his comments, and his pastor's heart. Once again, I was beaming inside, so proud of my husband and grateful to have him as MY pastor! It doesn't take long for his pastor's heart to come out, even across the oceans! The topic was on caring for the poor, and Ken had some good questions as we all interacted on this difficult topic. We all agreed we need discernment in
knowing exactly WHO the poor really are around us. The folks shared that many here act like they are poor, but are cheaters or liars. One way many of them care for the poor is to give them small jobs to do, since lack of employment is so huge here. I was so humbled as I sat and listened to these dear people who all have so much less than me, yet are looking for ways to care and minister to the poor around them. God Bless them.
Before we left the Bible Study, Pastor Choongo asked Ken to preach at Nahumba BIC church on Sunday. Ken smiled and hesitated and said, "Well, I never preached with an interpreter"...to which the Bishop replied, "Good, then you should do it at least 2 times!" I think Ken will agree to preach this Sunday, but he said he will let them know for sure tomorrow. I am so excited that I will get to hear my favorite pastor preach a message, much sooner than I thought! Yippee!
Ken brought along a great book fresh off the press....When Sinners Say "I Do", by Dave Harvey. We are reading it together aloud, and are enjoying some great disscusion as a result.
I wish I could respond to each of you that leave a comment, but since I can't, please know how much it means to me to hear from you in this way. Thanks so much for taking time to comment and thanks for your prayers and encouragement.
Today we had 21 children for our Bible Hour! All the same ones, with one addition, and it went very well again. One of the cutest things happened around 9:20 this morning. We begin at 10:00, but at 9:20, I heard a knock on the door. There stood 2 little boys with big smiles, ready to come in! I chuckled as I thought to myself that this is not very typical...being late is customary in Zambia...but these little guys were ready to go and made sure they didn't miss a minute of Bible Hour! Since we weren't quite ready, I had them play outside for a little while, until more came (many of them arrived by 9:45!). They sure were eager!
This afternoon I had a wonderful time of fellowship with Maudie Makani, the mother of 9 children. What a dear lady! She is a devout woman of prayer and it was a pleasure to sit and chat with her about parenting, prayer, church life, godliness, trials and joys. She, along with four or five other women, rise as early as 4:00 AM a few days a week to gather for intercessory prayer. During General Conference, they did that every morning. She commented how when she is praying faithfully and seeking the Lord on a consistent basis, she is free from sickness and physically strong. Quite contrary to what one might naturally think, but that's our God - He becomes our strength in our weakness.
This evening we had our weekly Wednesday evening Bible Study, and it was a special treat to have Ken join us. The pastor of Nahumba BIC was there, as well as Bishop Hammakang'andu. Afterwards, one of the ladies commented how wonderful it was to have Ken there, and how much she appreciated his comments, and his pastor's heart. Once again, I was beaming inside, so proud of my husband and grateful to have him as MY pastor! It doesn't take long for his pastor's heart to come out, even across the oceans! The topic was on caring for the poor, and Ken had some good questions as we all interacted on this difficult topic. We all agreed we need discernment in
knowing exactly WHO the poor really are around us. The folks shared that many here act like they are poor, but are cheaters or liars. One way many of them care for the poor is to give them small jobs to do, since lack of employment is so huge here. I was so humbled as I sat and listened to these dear people who all have so much less than me, yet are looking for ways to care and minister to the poor around them. God Bless them.
Before we left the Bible Study, Pastor Choongo asked Ken to preach at Nahumba BIC church on Sunday. Ken smiled and hesitated and said, "Well, I never preached with an interpreter"...to which the Bishop replied, "Good, then you should do it at least 2 times!" I think Ken will agree to preach this Sunday, but he said he will let them know for sure tomorrow. I am so excited that I will get to hear my favorite pastor preach a message, much sooner than I thought! Yippee!
Ken brought along a great book fresh off the press....When Sinners Say "I Do", by Dave Harvey. We are reading it together aloud, and are enjoying some great disscusion as a result.
I wish I could respond to each of you that leave a comment, but since I can't, please know how much it means to me to hear from you in this way. Thanks so much for taking time to comment and thanks for your prayers and encouragement.
Getting Better and Children's Hour
I am happy to report that Ken is feeling better! He is getting his strength back and only feels congested in his head, not his chest. It could be a case of the 3 D's...dust, dirt and dryness. What a nice scene today...he and Dad just left for a walk to town. I'm so glad they can spend some time together. Up till now, Ken just didn't have the energy to do much.
Mother and I had a great turnout of 20 children yesterday morning for our "Children's Bible Hour". The ages ranged from 2-14. What a joy to see them
sing, smile and listen as we shared the good news of the Gospel. They also colored some pictures, which all ages enjoyed very much. It went so well, and the children were very well behaved. We had no problems at all, and they were all so polite and attentive. Later that day, we had the opportunity to commend some of the parents on the excellent job they are doing with their children, evidenced by their wonderful behavior and attentivness. They will come again this morning for an hour.
Last evening, Moses and Noria Munsaka, and 2 of their children came to our home for dinner and we had a good time fellowshipping together. It was nice for Ken to meet them. Moses does evangelistic work in the area by conducting crusades. They shared a disappointing story with us...They have been hoping to start a candle making business for extra income, and upon going to Zimbabwe for a crusade, the folks there wanted to know how they could best pay Moses and Noria for the work they did during the crusade. Moses mentioned their desire for a candle making machine, and the people generously gave one to them in appreciation of their ministry. However,
upon leaving Zimbabwe to return to Zambia, the machine was held at the border, and they were made to pay $200 in order to bring it into Zambia. Obviously, they do not have that kind of money. They were given a form to bring back with the money to get the machine. Please pray the money will be provided and that the machine will indeed be there when they return for it. This is just a taste of what is happening in that country - it is sad.
Yesterday afternoon, Mother and I went to Pastor Choongo's home and visited with him and his wife. They have 7 children, and I have really enjoyed getting to know them. With the exception of their firstborn, all of their children came to the Bible hour in the morning. We took them some clothing. I didn't have any dresses for their little girls, so I am going to buy a few for them sometime during the next few weeks, maybe when we are in Livingstone. People are so appreciative for anything they receive. Again, I marvel at the contentment and joy they have, despite having so little. I have so much to learn from them.
The children will soon be returning to school. August was their holiday, but next week they will return to school. Next week we hope to take a few trips, so Ken can see some of the surrounding towns.
Oh, by the way, I think I forgot to mention that everything went wonderful with immigration. The new officer they have is so cooperative and friendly. It was nothing like what we expected! My dad will be traveling with a few other folks to Lusaka on Friday to pick up his work permit....better late than never! At least he will have it for his final month here.. sometimes the wheel turns slowly around here. But oh, I love it...the fast pace of home might be an adjustment for me after 15 weeks of a relaxed pace! But my heart is longing for home - I miss my family, friends and home church greatly :)
Mother and I had a great turnout of 20 children yesterday morning for our "Children's Bible Hour". The ages ranged from 2-14. What a joy to see them
sing, smile and listen as we shared the good news of the Gospel. They also colored some pictures, which all ages enjoyed very much. It went so well, and the children were very well behaved. We had no problems at all, and they were all so polite and attentive. Later that day, we had the opportunity to commend some of the parents on the excellent job they are doing with their children, evidenced by their wonderful behavior and attentivness. They will come again this morning for an hour.
Last evening, Moses and Noria Munsaka, and 2 of their children came to our home for dinner and we had a good time fellowshipping together. It was nice for Ken to meet them. Moses does evangelistic work in the area by conducting crusades. They shared a disappointing story with us...They have been hoping to start a candle making business for extra income, and upon going to Zimbabwe for a crusade, the folks there wanted to know how they could best pay Moses and Noria for the work they did during the crusade. Moses mentioned their desire for a candle making machine, and the people generously gave one to them in appreciation of their ministry. However,
upon leaving Zimbabwe to return to Zambia, the machine was held at the border, and they were made to pay $200 in order to bring it into Zambia. Obviously, they do not have that kind of money. They were given a form to bring back with the money to get the machine. Please pray the money will be provided and that the machine will indeed be there when they return for it. This is just a taste of what is happening in that country - it is sad.
Yesterday afternoon, Mother and I went to Pastor Choongo's home and visited with him and his wife. They have 7 children, and I have really enjoyed getting to know them. With the exception of their firstborn, all of their children came to the Bible hour in the morning. We took them some clothing. I didn't have any dresses for their little girls, so I am going to buy a few for them sometime during the next few weeks, maybe when we are in Livingstone. People are so appreciative for anything they receive. Again, I marvel at the contentment and joy they have, despite having so little. I have so much to learn from them.
The children will soon be returning to school. August was their holiday, but next week they will return to school. Next week we hope to take a few trips, so Ken can see some of the surrounding towns.
Oh, by the way, I think I forgot to mention that everything went wonderful with immigration. The new officer they have is so cooperative and friendly. It was nothing like what we expected! My dad will be traveling with a few other folks to Lusaka on Friday to pick up his work permit....better late than never! At least he will have it for his final month here.. sometimes the wheel turns slowly around here. But oh, I love it...the fast pace of home might be an adjustment for me after 15 weeks of a relaxed pace! But my heart is longing for home - I miss my family, friends and home church greatly :)
Monday, August 27, 2007
A Quiet Week Together
Although our first week back together has been different than what I expected (with a not-so-well husband!), it has been wonderful being together. Ken is still quite fatigued, and seems to have some congestion in his lungs, but we are glad his fever broke and he seems to have caught up in his sleep. I tend to lean towards a doctor visit, but he keeps thinking he will get better. (any surprise there?!) He isn't strong enough to take a walk to town (or even much around Nahumba!) But we are both so happy to see each other every day and we thank the Lord for that.
Yesterday my mother and I spent some time in the garage organizing some Christian Ed materials that were sent over from the states a while ago. There are boxes and boxes of overstocked materials for Preschool, primary, teens, young adult and adults. Numerous pastors have come to load up materials to take back to their churches, so I have helped them find the specific things they are looking for. I hope to spend many more hours in there getting it all organized before I leave, so that it is easy for people to find things.
Mother and I took a walk today, inviting all the children in Nahumba to our Children's Bible Hour the rest of this week. Tuesday - Friday, we are hosting an hour of singing, story time and crafts. We expect to have 20 children come.
Tonight my Dad and I listened to Ken read the first chapter of Dave Harvey's book, "When Sinners Say 'I Do'". It's a great book on marriage.
Our days have been fairly quiet - Ken taking it easy, and Matt doing school work. But I still have plenty of energy and have been enjoying interacting with the women, especially Emma. Today I enjoyed helping her with the laundry. It was another beautiful warm day, and a fast drying day for the wash!
Tonight the sky was beautiful...I love the African sky when the sun sheds its glow on the horizon. I try to take it in, so I won't forget what it looks like when I leave. I'm starting to feel a twinge of sadness in thinking of leaving....realizing there are people I wish I could get to know better, but I hope to use these last 2-3 weeks wisely and make the best of them. The other side is that I get quite excited in thinking about re-connecting with dear family and friends that I miss so much!
Yesterday my mother and I spent some time in the garage organizing some Christian Ed materials that were sent over from the states a while ago. There are boxes and boxes of overstocked materials for Preschool, primary, teens, young adult and adults. Numerous pastors have come to load up materials to take back to their churches, so I have helped them find the specific things they are looking for. I hope to spend many more hours in there getting it all organized before I leave, so that it is easy for people to find things.
Mother and I took a walk today, inviting all the children in Nahumba to our Children's Bible Hour the rest of this week. Tuesday - Friday, we are hosting an hour of singing, story time and crafts. We expect to have 20 children come.
Tonight my Dad and I listened to Ken read the first chapter of Dave Harvey's book, "When Sinners Say 'I Do'". It's a great book on marriage.
Our days have been fairly quiet - Ken taking it easy, and Matt doing school work. But I still have plenty of energy and have been enjoying interacting with the women, especially Emma. Today I enjoyed helping her with the laundry. It was another beautiful warm day, and a fast drying day for the wash!
Tonight the sky was beautiful...I love the African sky when the sun sheds its glow on the horizon. I try to take it in, so I won't forget what it looks like when I leave. I'm starting to feel a twinge of sadness in thinking of leaving....realizing there are people I wish I could get to know better, but I hope to use these last 2-3 weeks wisely and make the best of them. The other side is that I get quite excited in thinking about re-connecting with dear family and friends that I miss so much!
Quick Update on Dad
Here's a portion of an e-mail I got from my Mom last night for anyone wondering how Dad is doing ...
Dad was better today, but still trying to recuperate. He did go to church with us this morning, but was tired out by the time we got home. His fever had broke during night, but then he had a fever this afternoon of 100.4, so he took some more tylenol. He is coughing and is congested, and still pretty weak, but at least his head cleared up some and he is not disoriented anymore. I am eager for him to be back tohimself, but it may take a few days. I think he just needs some rest and relaxation, and Zambia is a fine place for him to get that :) It's just so good to have him here!!
Thanks for your continual prayers,
Sarah
Dad was better today, but still trying to recuperate. He did go to church with us this morning, but was tired out by the time we got home. His fever had broke during night, but then he had a fever this afternoon of 100.4, so he took some more tylenol. He is coughing and is congested, and still pretty weak, but at least his head cleared up some and he is not disoriented anymore. I am eager for him to be back tohimself, but it may take a few days. I think he just needs some rest and relaxation, and Zambia is a fine place for him to get that :) It's just so good to have him here!!
Thanks for your continual prayers,
Sarah
Saturday, August 25, 2007
Health Update on a Quiet Day
Ken is still not feeling well; he slept for 18 hours straight, and then today was up for short periods, between his 3 naps. He is battling a low grade fever, fatigue, a cough and head congestion. It appears that he came quite depleted of energy, and has had difficulty sleeping pretty much the whole ten weeks we were separated. I kid him saying he is suffering from a form of "love-sickness", and he smiles, says I am right and tells me how good it is to be with me :) So it could be a combination of sleepless nights, change in altitude and time, and perhaps a touch of some bug as well. I feel bad for him; missing out on some opportunities to interact with these folks, but he'll get there with time.
Today Mother and I went to a women's session at General Conference and it was good....lots of women's choirs singing. They all wear the same thing...white hats or scarves on their heads, white blouses and black skirts. Then when they are done singing, and take their seats, they put on a BIC chitangi over top of their skirt.
My Dad informed us of the outcome of an important decision that was voted on this afternoon. There was a vote whether or not to re-elect the present bishop for another 5 years. Bishop Thuma Hamukang'andu was re-elected. The other name on the ballot was Rev. H. Sikwela (This information is for my parent's friends, especially those of you who have served here in Zambia and know these names!)
Tonight after the meeting, a number of the pastors and their wives, along with Esther Spurrier, are going to join us for some dessert and tea. Mother has been enjoying getting everything all set up....puttering away in the kitchen! I hope Ken will be able to join us, but he has been sleeping most of the evening, so he might not be up to it yet. Either way, it will be nice to interact with these folks who are very special to my parents.
My friend, Heather, who is in Macha, stopped by today. It was so good to see her, and Ken was able to meet her in between his naps :)
I had a wonderful surprise today....I got a call from Ryan and then an hour later, Sarah called! It made for a happy day :) It doesn't take much! Just for the record, I would consider every day a happy day, but it was a special treat on this happy day to hear voices from home :)
I miss you all!
Thanks for your continual prayers for my dear husband.
Today Mother and I went to a women's session at General Conference and it was good....lots of women's choirs singing. They all wear the same thing...white hats or scarves on their heads, white blouses and black skirts. Then when they are done singing, and take their seats, they put on a BIC chitangi over top of their skirt.
My Dad informed us of the outcome of an important decision that was voted on this afternoon. There was a vote whether or not to re-elect the present bishop for another 5 years. Bishop Thuma Hamukang'andu was re-elected. The other name on the ballot was Rev. H. Sikwela (This information is for my parent's friends, especially those of you who have served here in Zambia and know these names!)
Tonight after the meeting, a number of the pastors and their wives, along with Esther Spurrier, are going to join us for some dessert and tea. Mother has been enjoying getting everything all set up....puttering away in the kitchen! I hope Ken will be able to join us, but he has been sleeping most of the evening, so he might not be up to it yet. Either way, it will be nice to interact with these folks who are very special to my parents.
My friend, Heather, who is in Macha, stopped by today. It was so good to see her, and Ken was able to meet her in between his naps :)
I had a wonderful surprise today....I got a call from Ryan and then an hour later, Sarah called! It made for a happy day :) It doesn't take much! Just for the record, I would consider every day a happy day, but it was a special treat on this happy day to hear voices from home :)
I miss you all!
Thanks for your continual prayers for my dear husband.
Friday, August 24, 2007
Another Patient
Today Ken and I took a walk to town and back by ourselves, and it was great having him as my walking partner. We were able to get caught up on our lives and went on our first "date" in 10 weeks! We recommend weekly dates, for those of you who know us well...sorry we slipped up on that for a while! Hopefully we will get back into the habit now :)
About halfway through our morning, he said he wasn't feeling too well - his head was congested and he had a fever, and he felt wiped out. It was then that he said he really hadn't felt very well physically since he's been here, but was trying to "push through." Bless his heart; I'm sure he was pushing through for my sake too! I think he came a bit exhausted, then didn't sleep on the plane hardly at all, and hasn't been able to get a full night's sleep since he's here, probably mostly due to the time change. He slept all afternoon, and hopefully will get his energy back and will be healed quickly. We were planning to go to Ron and Erma Herr's tonight for our monthly meeting with other missionaries. Matt and I will probably go, and maybe we will let Ken sleep. The Herr's live next door, so maybe he will join us if he feels up to it later on. So once again, I come to you asking for your prayers, for my dear husband. Thanks!
About halfway through our morning, he said he wasn't feeling too well - his head was congested and he had a fever, and he felt wiped out. It was then that he said he really hadn't felt very well physically since he's been here, but was trying to "push through." Bless his heart; I'm sure he was pushing through for my sake too! I think he came a bit exhausted, then didn't sleep on the plane hardly at all, and hasn't been able to get a full night's sleep since he's here, probably mostly due to the time change. He slept all afternoon, and hopefully will get his energy back and will be healed quickly. We were planning to go to Ron and Erma Herr's tonight for our monthly meeting with other missionaries. Matt and I will probably go, and maybe we will let Ken sleep. The Herr's live next door, so maybe he will join us if he feels up to it later on. So once again, I come to you asking for your prayers, for my dear husband. Thanks!
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Laughs, Walks and School Work
It sure is nice walking around, hand in hand with my man! We enjoyed walking home from town today on the path that I have come to love...as we waved to children, greeted them, and chatted the whole way. Today was a relaxing day as Ken tried to catch up a bit on his short nights of sleep. We had some laughs last night as we tried to go to sleep. Within minutes of turning off the lights, Ken heard the buzzing of a misquito at his face, so we quickly turned on the light, trying to find it and end its life. Well, this continued for quite a while....giving up after not finding it, turing off the light, lying there for a little while, then hearing it again, then turning on the light, etc. etc., So then we decided we would use the
misquito net(s) above the beds. Only problem is that we are sleeping on 2 twin beds pushed together. The beds have misquito nets over them, but when you push them together, obviously both nets are no longer above the beds. Well, we managed to squish into one bed so the net could be over us. I think we got a few hours sleep like that, until somewhere during the night, Ken switched to the other bed and somehow had part of the net over him too! He did tell me in the morning that when he woke up in the middle of the night, the net was actually lying on my face, because it came off the bed frame.....oh my, what will tonight hold? But it's all good, cause we are together!
Ken is slowly meeting people, but is amazed at how many names we know....it reminds me that we have been here for quite a while! Ken joined my Dad in going to one of the Conference sessions this afternoon. I stayed home and helped Matt with his school work. Ken brought a packet of assignments from PDELA, Matt's cyber school. Classes begin Aug 27, so he has to get some things done before we get home. I guess his summer is over!
Just as we were getting ready for supper, Edwin and Koyi, the couple who just got married 2 weeks ago, stopped by, so we invited them to join us for supper and we had a wonderful time fellowshipping with them around the table. Any day now, they will be leaving for Siavongo, where Edwin will be pastoring.
Please say a prayer for Given. He has been sick most of the week, with Malaria and the flu, and is very weak. I know he would appreciate your prayers.
Even though it is getting warmer, it is so beautiful. Every day has been sunny. I hear PA is getting some much needed rain! None here :)
misquito net(s) above the beds. Only problem is that we are sleeping on 2 twin beds pushed together. The beds have misquito nets over them, but when you push them together, obviously both nets are no longer above the beds. Well, we managed to squish into one bed so the net could be over us. I think we got a few hours sleep like that, until somewhere during the night, Ken switched to the other bed and somehow had part of the net over him too! He did tell me in the morning that when he woke up in the middle of the night, the net was actually lying on my face, because it came off the bed frame.....oh my, what will tonight hold? But it's all good, cause we are together!
Ken is slowly meeting people, but is amazed at how many names we know....it reminds me that we have been here for quite a while! Ken joined my Dad in going to one of the Conference sessions this afternoon. I stayed home and helped Matt with his school work. Ken brought a packet of assignments from PDELA, Matt's cyber school. Classes begin Aug 27, so he has to get some things done before we get home. I guess his summer is over!
Just as we were getting ready for supper, Edwin and Koyi, the couple who just got married 2 weeks ago, stopped by, so we invited them to join us for supper and we had a wonderful time fellowshipping with them around the table. Any day now, they will be leaving for Siavongo, where Edwin will be pastoring.
Please say a prayer for Given. He has been sick most of the week, with Malaria and the flu, and is very weak. I know he would appreciate your prayers.
Even though it is getting warmer, it is so beautiful. Every day has been sunny. I hear PA is getting some much needed rain! None here :)
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Together!
Many thanks to Sarah for filling in for me yesterday while I was a bit "detained" :) I will warn you all now...I might not be as faithful these next 4 weeks as I have been for the past 10 weeks, in getting these posts to you; somehow I don't think I will have as much "free time" on my hands! Or could it be that now I just want to spend time with my husband instead of the computer?! I will try my best to keep up with it, but I know you will understand if I am a bit distracted :)
Needless to say, I truly am overjoyed to be reunited with Ken! I think we both feel a little like newly-weds! This evening when I looked at him I said, "Can it really be that I get to sleep with you again tonight? That is TWO nights in a row!!" Oh, it is so good to be together. We both agree this was a "once-in-a-lifetime" experience, and the Lord would have to speak very loudly to ever be separated this long again, as long as we both are living! I know some couples do it all the time, but we decided it's not for us!
Ken is adjusting well, although he is still trying to catch up on some short nights of sleep. Everything went fine in Johannesburg, and even though he had to pay for the extra luggage enroute to Livingstone, we rejoice that his luggage came with him!
Today I gave him a walking tour of Nahumba and introduced him to many of the people here, who were all eager to meet him (since of course, they heard of my growing anticipation of his arrival!) We drove into Choma for a few stops, and hope to take the walking path tomorrow if he is feeling up to it.
One of these days soon, I will do a little interview with my husband, so you can hear his initial impressions of Africa! But for now, it's time for me to spend some time with him!!
Grateful for the man I love....Beth (yes, I am smiling!!)
Needless to say, I truly am overjoyed to be reunited with Ken! I think we both feel a little like newly-weds! This evening when I looked at him I said, "Can it really be that I get to sleep with you again tonight? That is TWO nights in a row!!" Oh, it is so good to be together. We both agree this was a "once-in-a-lifetime" experience, and the Lord would have to speak very loudly to ever be separated this long again, as long as we both are living! I know some couples do it all the time, but we decided it's not for us!
Ken is adjusting well, although he is still trying to catch up on some short nights of sleep. Everything went fine in Johannesburg, and even though he had to pay for the extra luggage enroute to Livingstone, we rejoice that his luggage came with him!
Today I gave him a walking tour of Nahumba and introduced him to many of the people here, who were all eager to meet him (since of course, they heard of my growing anticipation of his arrival!) We drove into Choma for a few stops, and hope to take the walking path tomorrow if he is feeling up to it.
One of these days soon, I will do a little interview with my husband, so you can hear his initial impressions of Africa! But for now, it's time for me to spend some time with him!!
Grateful for the man I love....Beth (yes, I am smiling!!)
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Overjoyed ...
I just talked to my Mom on the phone ... they are back at the house WITH Dad!! And Mom is completely overjoyed! She said it was a wonderful reunion, and she can't believe he is actually in Africa with her. Although my Dad didn't get much sleep the past 2 nights, he is doing well too. They were still busy finishing dinner and unpacking when I talked to her ... and with all the excitement going on, I don't think Mom will send me a post for today, but you will likely hear from her tomorrow!
Thanks for your prayers,
Sarah
Thanks for your prayers,
Sarah
Monday, August 20, 2007
He's in South Africa!
I received a very short email from Ken saying he is in Johannesburg, South Africa, in his hotel for tonight, so I am quite excited as I head into my last night of sleeping alone in Africa :) If you have any other questions, well...you will have to wait, just like me, because my husband is a man of little words, especially in emails! I will just assume his luggage is with him, that he had a good flight and all is well! I will fill you in with the details after seeing him in person tomorrow!! Oh, how wonderful to know he is now on the same continent as me!
Matthew has a bad case of "dad-eagerness"...i.e. what some might call a bit "hyper"! But he's allowed; it's been a long time!
Today was laundry day and grocery day, and another beautiful day in Zambia. We met more people that my parents knew, both at the house and as we were in town. It never ceases to amaze me how many folks they know in this place! I'm sure that will continue this week, as Zambia General Conference takes place right here at the Choma Secondary School. Many will gather from Wednesday through Sunday for special meetings. The Guest House is full and it will be a busy place. Ken is coming right in the middle of the busiest week of the summer, but don't worry...we'll be sure to get some alone time and rest time! I am already looking forward to taking walks with him, showing him the many paths of beautiful Nahumba. It will also be a great
time to meet many of the special people that mean so much to my parents, so I am glad he will be here when so many of them are in town. My Dad is also hoping to have some of the pastors over to our house to give Ken an opportunity to relate with them.
Well, time to TRY to get some sleep! Tomorrow is a BIG day in my life :) Thanks for your prayers...
My heart is filled with a thousand songs
Proclaiming the glories of Calvary
With every breath, Lord how I long,
To sing of Jesus who died for me -
Lord, take me deeper, in the glories of Calvary.
Matthew has a bad case of "dad-eagerness"...i.e. what some might call a bit "hyper"! But he's allowed; it's been a long time!
Today was laundry day and grocery day, and another beautiful day in Zambia. We met more people that my parents knew, both at the house and as we were in town. It never ceases to amaze me how many folks they know in this place! I'm sure that will continue this week, as Zambia General Conference takes place right here at the Choma Secondary School. Many will gather from Wednesday through Sunday for special meetings. The Guest House is full and it will be a busy place. Ken is coming right in the middle of the busiest week of the summer, but don't worry...we'll be sure to get some alone time and rest time! I am already looking forward to taking walks with him, showing him the many paths of beautiful Nahumba. It will also be a great
time to meet many of the special people that mean so much to my parents, so I am glad he will be here when so many of them are in town. My Dad is also hoping to have some of the pastors over to our house to give Ken an opportunity to relate with them.
Well, time to TRY to get some sleep! Tomorrow is a BIG day in my life :) Thanks for your prayers...
My heart is filled with a thousand songs
Proclaiming the glories of Calvary
With every breath, Lord how I long,
To sing of Jesus who died for me -
Lord, take me deeper, in the glories of Calvary.
Almost there ...
I just heard from my Dad ... he is in Johannesburg! Lord willing, he will see Mom and Matt tomorrow!
Sarah
Sarah
Sunday, August 19, 2007
Africa Bound!!
My dear husband is Africa bound tonight, so please pray for him. He will leave Dulles airport at 5:20 and will arrive in Johannesburg, South Africa, Monday afternoon. He will stay overnight in Jo-burg and then will fly to Livingstone Tuesday, arriving at 12:50 PM, at which time his wife will be one excited woman!!! Given will be driving us to the airport. Needless to say, I can't wait! Ten weeks was a long time, but it is coming to end, and what a happy reunion we will have :) Matthew and I are so eager to be with him and have him share in our experiences in this "home away from home".
As you pray for his safe traveling, we have one other prayer request...He knew all along that South African Air allows two 70 lb. suitcases, but just this past week, he found out that his connecting flight from Jo-burg to Livingstone is a different airline and their "restrictions" appear to be ONE 40 lb piece....thus a potential problem. SAA says he should be ok since he is coming from overseas, but that isn't completely reassuring. Please pray that they waive the restriction for him and that all his luggage comes with him and he won't have to pay for the extra weight. For all of you that know him, you would know Ken would have had little more than a carry-on if he was just bringing HIS belongings! However, being the kind, gracious guy that he is, he has agreed to bring some things for others with him and some things
to give away to the Zambians, as well as a few requests from his wife and son :) What a guy, huh? And many thanks to Hollis and Allie for picking up some things on my list and to my sister Deb, for helping him pack. I felt so bad I was not there to help him, but soon I will be by his side and will be the helper that God intended me to be for him :)
Thanks for your prayers!
Miss you all so much - Beth
As you pray for his safe traveling, we have one other prayer request...He knew all along that South African Air allows two 70 lb. suitcases, but just this past week, he found out that his connecting flight from Jo-burg to Livingstone is a different airline and their "restrictions" appear to be ONE 40 lb piece....thus a potential problem. SAA says he should be ok since he is coming from overseas, but that isn't completely reassuring. Please pray that they waive the restriction for him and that all his luggage comes with him and he won't have to pay for the extra weight. For all of you that know him, you would know Ken would have had little more than a carry-on if he was just bringing HIS belongings! However, being the kind, gracious guy that he is, he has agreed to bring some things for others with him and some things
to give away to the Zambians, as well as a few requests from his wife and son :) What a guy, huh? And many thanks to Hollis and Allie for picking up some things on my list and to my sister Deb, for helping him pack. I felt so bad I was not there to help him, but soon I will be by his side and will be the helper that God intended me to be for him :)
Thanks for your prayers!
Miss you all so much - Beth
Saturday, August 18, 2007
Another Special Lady
Thanks for your prayers. I am feeling much better and recovering today. We are praying that Matthew escapes the bug and will stay healthy.
Yesterday we had the privilege of visiting a dear older woman, Rachel Mushala. The drive back to her place was adventure, but fortunately Emma was with us and guided us through the dirt paths and high grass, past numerous other farms and houses. My parents were good friends with Rachel and her late husband when they were here years ago. Rachel and her husband helped translate the Bible into Tonga and they were pillars in the church. In addition to losing her husband, she has lost 3 of her 5 children, and now takes care of a number of her grandchildren. One of her daughters and her children live with her, while her husband works in the Copperbelt. Her
eyesight is failing her and she is not as mobile as she once was. She shared both joys and sorrows in bringing up her granchildren, some of whom are not following the Lord. Her strong faith in the Lord, even through difficult times, both past and present, was an inspiration to us and we had a lovley time with her. My Mother prayed for her before we left.
The past few days I have been helping David, Emma's youngest son, with some English and Math work. I am going to save some of his Math questions for when Ken arrives! David is in 11th grade at Sikalonga Scondary School, and they are currently on break.
Matt gets his stitches out Tuesday morning before we head to the airport for Ken. Oh, happy day that will be....is sure is around the corner now. He gets on the plane tomorrow! Yippee!
Yesterday we had the privilege of visiting a dear older woman, Rachel Mushala. The drive back to her place was adventure, but fortunately Emma was with us and guided us through the dirt paths and high grass, past numerous other farms and houses. My parents were good friends with Rachel and her late husband when they were here years ago. Rachel and her husband helped translate the Bible into Tonga and they were pillars in the church. In addition to losing her husband, she has lost 3 of her 5 children, and now takes care of a number of her grandchildren. One of her daughters and her children live with her, while her husband works in the Copperbelt. Her
eyesight is failing her and she is not as mobile as she once was. She shared both joys and sorrows in bringing up her granchildren, some of whom are not following the Lord. Her strong faith in the Lord, even through difficult times, both past and present, was an inspiration to us and we had a lovley time with her. My Mother prayed for her before we left.
The past few days I have been helping David, Emma's youngest son, with some English and Math work. I am going to save some of his Math questions for when Ken arrives! David is in 11th grade at Sikalonga Scondary School, and they are currently on break.
Matt gets his stitches out Tuesday morning before we head to the airport for Ken. Oh, happy day that will be....is sure is around the corner now. He gets on the plane tomorrow! Yippee!
Friday, August 17, 2007
Prayer Request ...
My Mom has picked up what seems to be the same virus that my Pop-pop and Nana had. Please pray for a speedy recovery and her full strength to be regained quickly. She is thankful she got sick before my Dad arrives on Tuesday.
Thanks for your prayers,
Sarah
Thanks for your prayers,
Sarah
Thursday, August 16, 2007
Back to Good Health
So glad to report that both of my parents have recovered from the virus. It was wonderful having Mother back in the kitchen today and seeing her stronger again. Today I helped Emma's son, David, with his math, but I sure could have used the expert assistance of my son Ryan (an 8th grade math teacher!). I got a little stuck with some of the formulas he is working with, but I kept his notebook overnight and figured most of it out so I am more ready to help him tomorrow. What I don't understand, I will hand over to Ken when he gets here! David is also going to bring his English over and I will help him with some of that as well. He is in grade 11, and he only has notebooks that he writes in; no text books. No wonder so many have a hard time getting good grades.
In case I didn't mention it, schools are off for the month of August. They go year round, but have breaks in April, August and December. To pass, the student must have above 40%. Many of them are struggling to get that. Often their parents have not gone to school, and are unable to help them. In order to get extra help at school, teachers typically charge something exta, and so many cannot afford that, so many are not helped.
Uncle Doug and Brent painting at Nahumba basic school
Aunt Dar and Mindy painting at Nahumba basic school
In a conversation with a teacher the other day, he told me of a student who slept all morning during his class. Upon inquiring with the student, he found out that the boy had eaten breakfast the day before, but had no lunch, dinner or breakfast that day, because his family had no food. He looked at the teacher and said, "I'm just sooo hungry, I can't stay awake." The teacher took him to his house and gave him some food, which was quite a sacrifice and act of love, considering the meager pay teachers get. He continued to tell me how God provided for his own family after they gave to this student. I am continually amazed at how the people here have so little and are so content. They do not complain. We regularly hear stories of
God's faithful provision for them. There are so many things we are learning.
Well, it's midnight here on Thursday, so that means only 5 more days, folks! The 10 week separation from my dear husbnad is actually coming to an end and I am so happy I could cry! (Anyone that knows me knows that isn't an exaggeration! If I think too long about him, the tears actually do come!)
But thanks be to God, who always leads us in the way we should go, and gives us grace for each moment of the way.
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Jackpot at the Post Office and No Maleria
My Mother definitely does not have malaria; we got a second test today and it was negative. There is a virus going around that evidently hit my parents. We are hearing that many others are sick as well, so we hope it does not spread any more. Matthew and I are healthy and well. My Dad is up and around and even drove to town today, and is recovering, but he did take a nap this afternoon, which is not the norm, so he is not quite back to normal. My Mother is now gaining some strength, and ate a little breakfast and lunch, in between her morning and afternoon naps :) But we are so grateful they are getting stronger each day. Thanks for your prayers.
Today we hit the jackpot at the post office! Many thanks to Meg, Jared, Ryle and Ben for the picture, photo and letter. Thanks too, Jen, for the wonderful letter and adorable photos of little Ryan :) And Brent and Mindy.....well, your package of sweets was recieved with much joy! How kind and thoughtful of you to send us each a little care package of our favorites that we can't get here :) Sarah, the package you sent 5 weeks ago, still has not arrived, and I doubt we will see it :( But we will keep checking. Meghan's letter was postmarked Aug 9 and we received it Aug 15...SIX days is not bad at all!
I am so excited that I will see Ken in less than a week!! Yippee :)
Today we hit the jackpot at the post office! Many thanks to Meg, Jared, Ryle and Ben for the picture, photo and letter. Thanks too, Jen, for the wonderful letter and adorable photos of little Ryan :) And Brent and Mindy.....well, your package of sweets was recieved with much joy! How kind and thoughtful of you to send us each a little care package of our favorites that we can't get here :) Sarah, the package you sent 5 weeks ago, still has not arrived, and I doubt we will see it :( But we will keep checking. Meghan's letter was postmarked Aug 9 and we received it Aug 15...SIX days is not bad at all!
I am so excited that I will see Ken in less than a week!! Yippee :)
Health Update
I wanted to give an update on my parents. My Dad felt achey and sluggish all day yesterday, and only drank tea. He will try to eat some food today. He rested and took it easy. My Mother slept all day and was very wiped out. I did manage to talk her into getting a bath to try to wake her up, but the bath did not wake her up; she went right back to sleep. She has only had a little sprite to drink. I feel so bad for her and I miss her not walking around and talking to us; it was was way too quiet today. Please pray that her headache leaves and that she regains her strength and that she can begin eating today. Unless something drastically changes, we will get her re-tested for malaria later today. It could be a virus as well, since they both got it the same tme. Thanks for your prayers; hopefully I can report some good news later today! Beth
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
Sickness and A Gash ...
I am happy to report that I am very well, but I am sorry to report that my 3 "patients" have needed some TLC in the past 12 hours. Monday evening after supper my Dad did not feel well, and by 10:00 he was bringing up his supper, had chills and was very weak. Then a few hours later, my Mother did the same. By 1:30 we all retired, hoping to get some sleep.
This morning Dad woke up feeling a bit better, but achey and weak. He was not able to keep his toast and vitamins down, so he will stick to liquids for most of the day. Mother is still in bed (it's 2:00 pm) and seems very wiped out, and had a headache when she briefly woke up this morning. Knowing that these are all symptoms for malaria, Emma thought it would be best for them to get tested, so she walked up to the secondary school and brought the nurse down to the house with her. The nurse took some blood and Emma walked the samples to Choma Hospital.
It seemed like Dad was doing better than Mother, so the initial test results surprised us when they came back saying Mother did not have malaria but Dad did! So, my Dad was pretty sure they were wrong! Given offered to take him for a second test. Meanwhile, while we were deciding what to do, Matthew comes in with a gash above his left eye! He was feeding Jasper's (Given's son) rabbits and when he removed the heavy rusted mesh cover, he cut his head. It was one of those "iffy" wounds. If he was back home, I would have said he probably needed stitches, but here, I just wasn't sure I wanted to have him get any, and I thought he might just have to settle with an "African scar". So we decided Given would take Dad to get a second test, and Matthew went along. While they were there, the doctor looked at Matt's wound and decided it needed 3 stitches. Matt's last tetanus shot was 9 years ago (which we thought was fine since it was within 10 years), but the doctor said here in Zambia they prefer every 5 years, so he also got a tetanus shot. He will go back to the doctor on Friday and get the stitches out next week.
So then the pharmacist came out and said Dad's test was negative! So....now we are thinking we might want Mother to get a second test, cause maybe the first results got switched. Emma watched them do the 2 tests, but she could not see which was which. It's interesting....a simple piece of paper that I wrote their names and ages on, and then a glass slide with the blood sample taped to the paper with a piece of masking tape labeled with their name....it sure had the possibility of getting mixed up! We will probably wait till tomorrow and see how she is, and then get her re-tested. Since we are all taking the doxycycline for Malaria prevention, that should help any symptoms to be minimal. Hopefully, that initial test was completely wrong and neither have it, but we will wait and see. If she does have malaria, she will take some medication that should speed up the healing process.
So, keep praying for strength for both Dad and Mother. We have been blessed with great health up to now, and we are confident that the Lord will continue to pour out his grace upon us and strengthen us in every way.
Thanks for your prayers....nurse Beth :)
This morning Dad woke up feeling a bit better, but achey and weak. He was not able to keep his toast and vitamins down, so he will stick to liquids for most of the day. Mother is still in bed (it's 2:00 pm) and seems very wiped out, and had a headache when she briefly woke up this morning. Knowing that these are all symptoms for malaria, Emma thought it would be best for them to get tested, so she walked up to the secondary school and brought the nurse down to the house with her. The nurse took some blood and Emma walked the samples to Choma Hospital.
It seemed like Dad was doing better than Mother, so the initial test results surprised us when they came back saying Mother did not have malaria but Dad did! So, my Dad was pretty sure they were wrong! Given offered to take him for a second test. Meanwhile, while we were deciding what to do, Matthew comes in with a gash above his left eye! He was feeding Jasper's (Given's son) rabbits and when he removed the heavy rusted mesh cover, he cut his head. It was one of those "iffy" wounds. If he was back home, I would have said he probably needed stitches, but here, I just wasn't sure I wanted to have him get any, and I thought he might just have to settle with an "African scar". So we decided Given would take Dad to get a second test, and Matthew went along. While they were there, the doctor looked at Matt's wound and decided it needed 3 stitches. Matt's last tetanus shot was 9 years ago (which we thought was fine since it was within 10 years), but the doctor said here in Zambia they prefer every 5 years, so he also got a tetanus shot. He will go back to the doctor on Friday and get the stitches out next week.
So then the pharmacist came out and said Dad's test was negative! So....now we are thinking we might want Mother to get a second test, cause maybe the first results got switched. Emma watched them do the 2 tests, but she could not see which was which. It's interesting....a simple piece of paper that I wrote their names and ages on, and then a glass slide with the blood sample taped to the paper with a piece of masking tape labeled with their name....it sure had the possibility of getting mixed up! We will probably wait till tomorrow and see how she is, and then get her re-tested. Since we are all taking the doxycycline for Malaria prevention, that should help any symptoms to be minimal. Hopefully, that initial test was completely wrong and neither have it, but we will wait and see. If she does have malaria, she will take some medication that should speed up the healing process.
So, keep praying for strength for both Dad and Mother. We have been blessed with great health up to now, and we are confident that the Lord will continue to pour out his grace upon us and strengthen us in every way.
Thanks for your prayers....nurse Beth :)
Monday, August 13, 2007
Thirty Wonderful Years!
Thirty years ago today, I married my best friend. Today he is still my best friend, and I would marry him again, because I think he is the best!Thank you, Ken, for asking me to marry you! The best years of my life have been spent with you, and I love you more than ever. Thank you for loving me in an understanding way and for modeling to me what it means to live for God's glory. You have been such a positive influence in my life, and so much of who I am today, is because of your powerful example. I am so grateful that the Lord kept you for me! I respect you and love you with all my heart. Being separated from you these 9 weeks (soon to be 10!) makes me cherish you all the more. I have missed so much about you, but especially I miss you by my side, leading me wisely, tenderly caring for me, and experiencing life together. This is the first anniversary we were not able to be together, but in 8 days, we will celebrate as we re-unite once again! I have observed and heard from the Africans here that married couples don't show much (if any) affection in public. Well.....I am in love with my husband, and it's been way too long since I've seen him, so I plan to be very close to him! Can't wait to see you in 8 days, my love! Then I can tell just YOU the rest of my thoughts, cause I could go on and on!
Sunday, August 12, 2007
Sunday at Mwapona BIC
My dad has been trying to expose me to various churches here, so today we visited a different one in Mwapona, not too far from here. It is the middle of many villages and is a growing church. The message was given by a student who is presently at Sikalongo Bible Institute and he spoke on John 15 - Jesus is the vine and we are the branches. They interpreted the message just for us, so we would not be left out!
When my parents were here in 1989, there was not a church in Mwapona. Someone had a burden to plant a church and they were able to use some materials that were stored here at Nahumba mission for the church building. The last time my parents were here, one wall of the church was grass. Today, the entire structure is up and now they are in the midst of building a larger one, because they pack it out! The congregation gathers regularly to make bricks, and all around the present building is a dirt trench, where they plan to build the larger one. When they get the basic structure up, they will tear down the existing one and use the materials from the old one for the new one. When you realize how little these folks make, and how little they live on, it is amazing to see the work that is already done. Piles of new bricks were in the areas surrounding the church. It was obvious that these people are committed to serving and sacrificing to build the kingdom of God in their village. There were many children in this church; at least 40 under the age of 12. Our hearts were saddened as we met the man (a former pastor who is presently unemployed) who lost his wife shortly after we arrived. I think I referred to the situation in an earlier post. He is left with 7 children. We just don't understand how people make it in situations like this. His name is Daniel, so say a prayer for him if you think of him and his 7 children.
The nights are still a bit cool here. I am surprised that I am still sleeping in my flannel PJs with many covers, but some of that might change when I soon have someone to keep me warm :)
The days are beautiful, just like every day we have been here. I have heard it is hazy, hot and humid back home. It will be nice coming from one cool season to another cool season...that suits me just fine, since fall is one of my favorite seasons!
God has been so faithful in keeping us healthy and feeling great physically. I think my body agrees with this African weather!
Matthew is doing well, but is missing his dad, family, friends and his bed! I am proud of how he is relating to the people here. He is growing in being respectful and I always enjoy seeing him look people straight in the eye, with his winsome smile, as he gives a manly handshake to those he greets. I see him growing up before my eyes. We are thoroughly enjoying the book on relationships; I'm so glad I brought it along. It is a special time we have together each day as we read and discuss the chapters, applying it to our lives.
Tomorrow is a very special day...more about that when tomorrow comes!
When my parents were here in 1989, there was not a church in Mwapona. Someone had a burden to plant a church and they were able to use some materials that were stored here at Nahumba mission for the church building. The last time my parents were here, one wall of the church was grass. Today, the entire structure is up and now they are in the midst of building a larger one, because they pack it out! The congregation gathers regularly to make bricks, and all around the present building is a dirt trench, where they plan to build the larger one. When they get the basic structure up, they will tear down the existing one and use the materials from the old one for the new one. When you realize how little these folks make, and how little they live on, it is amazing to see the work that is already done. Piles of new bricks were in the areas surrounding the church. It was obvious that these people are committed to serving and sacrificing to build the kingdom of God in their village. There were many children in this church; at least 40 under the age of 12. Our hearts were saddened as we met the man (a former pastor who is presently unemployed) who lost his wife shortly after we arrived. I think I referred to the situation in an earlier post. He is left with 7 children. We just don't understand how people make it in situations like this. His name is Daniel, so say a prayer for him if you think of him and his 7 children.
The nights are still a bit cool here. I am surprised that I am still sleeping in my flannel PJs with many covers, but some of that might change when I soon have someone to keep me warm :)
The days are beautiful, just like every day we have been here. I have heard it is hazy, hot and humid back home. It will be nice coming from one cool season to another cool season...that suits me just fine, since fall is one of my favorite seasons!
God has been so faithful in keeping us healthy and feeling great physically. I think my body agrees with this African weather!
Matthew is doing well, but is missing his dad, family, friends and his bed! I am proud of how he is relating to the people here. He is growing in being respectful and I always enjoy seeing him look people straight in the eye, with his winsome smile, as he gives a manly handshake to those he greets. I see him growing up before my eyes. We are thoroughly enjoying the book on relationships; I'm so glad I brought it along. It is a special time we have together each day as we read and discuss the chapters, applying it to our lives.
Tomorrow is a very special day...more about that when tomorrow comes!
Wedding #2
Edwin and Koyi's wedding was beautiful! My parents are very good friends with Edwin's uncle and aunt, the former Bishop Enok Shamapani and his wife Lastina. They raised Edwin, due to his parents not having the resources to. Edwin's parents were at the wedding and it was precious to see the love and closeness of the family. His parents are obviously very proud of him and very appreciative of Enok and Lastina.
The highlight for me was the message given by Rev Dennis Mweetwa, who is the Sikalongo Bible Institute principal. (SBI is where my Dad taught for a while on one of their previous trips here, and is where young men are trained to be pastors.) Edwin just graduated from SBI and was just recently assigned a church in Siavonga, about 250 km from Choma. Dennis's message centered on what a Christian marriage should be. He encouraged the husband to truly leave and cleave, and become one. He stressed the fact that marriage is 2 sinners living together. We must admit our sin and humble ourselves with each other and turn to Christ for forgiveness, grace and hope. He spoke of the importance of humility and teachableness, and open communication. It was refreshing to hear sin and grace preached about! The ceremony was just short of 2 hours long. The reception began at 14 hours and went till 18 hours, so we had a full day.
One interesting observation - Edwin wore black for the ceremony, but changed to a white suit for the reception! The line up (brides maids and groomsmen) also changed their attire for the ceremony.
There were about 300 people at the reception, and the church was quite full for the ceremony, but near that number. I enjoyed the music they had chosen for the wedding, most of it familar. She walked in to a Twila Paris song, Faithful Friend.
At both weddings, they make an event of signing the marriage license, going into a separate room with the minister and 2 witnesses in the middle of the service. Then after it was signed, the minister spoke a second message to them as a married couple.
This couple smiled more...especially the groom at the reception. The bride was still fairly serious, although she did smile here and there :)
The highlight for me was the message given by Rev Dennis Mweetwa, who is the Sikalongo Bible Institute principal. (SBI is where my Dad taught for a while on one of their previous trips here, and is where young men are trained to be pastors.) Edwin just graduated from SBI and was just recently assigned a church in Siavonga, about 250 km from Choma. Dennis's message centered on what a Christian marriage should be. He encouraged the husband to truly leave and cleave, and become one. He stressed the fact that marriage is 2 sinners living together. We must admit our sin and humble ourselves with each other and turn to Christ for forgiveness, grace and hope. He spoke of the importance of humility and teachableness, and open communication. It was refreshing to hear sin and grace preached about! The ceremony was just short of 2 hours long. The reception began at 14 hours and went till 18 hours, so we had a full day.
One interesting observation - Edwin wore black for the ceremony, but changed to a white suit for the reception! The line up (brides maids and groomsmen) also changed their attire for the ceremony.
There were about 300 people at the reception, and the church was quite full for the ceremony, but near that number. I enjoyed the music they had chosen for the wedding, most of it familar. She walked in to a Twila Paris song, Faithful Friend.
At both weddings, they make an event of signing the marriage license, going into a separate room with the minister and 2 witnesses in the middle of the service. Then after it was signed, the minister spoke a second message to them as a married couple.
This couple smiled more...especially the groom at the reception. The bride was still fairly serious, although she did smile here and there :)
Friday, August 10, 2007
Hurrah for Given!
Today I thought of my son-in-law Brian. Given reminds me of Brian ... a guy who can fix just about anything! Emma, my Mother, I are so very grateful that Given fixed the washing machine! He found out what was wrong, bought a part and worked on it today and got the spinner working. Now we are praying that it will last for a while. Evidently, this machine was purchased the same time 2 others were...this was the only one still working, so we all thought it's life was over. But no....Given came to the rescue once again. Given, I thank the Lord for you! My hands, wrists and shoulders thank you...and Matthew thanks you too, cause he was going to be in for some serious wringing in the days ahead!
An interesting thing happened today. I had the cakes all made and the bride and her matron came over this morning to see them. They informed us that some girls will stop by later to pick up the 7 cakes. Well....to our surprise 3 young girls knocked on the door, and said they were here to get the cakes. Only they didn't have a vehicle! They were going to walk the 10 minute trip through the fields, carrying these decorated, uncovered cakes that I spent hours on! Needless to say, the bakers had to confer with the man of the house on this one, because we were a bit protective of our cakes. We decided to call the groom (I didn't have the bride's number), and although he did not know the plan, he agreed that it didn't sound like a
good idea, so we graciously sent the girls away empty handed. A few hours later the matron came with the bride's sister and sister-in-law, and after trying gracioulsy to clear up some misunderstandings, they walked the path carrying 3 of the cakes and the young girls returned for the other 4. I wonder if that would have happened in the rainy season! TIA :)
An interesting thing happened today. I had the cakes all made and the bride and her matron came over this morning to see them. They informed us that some girls will stop by later to pick up the 7 cakes. Well....to our surprise 3 young girls knocked on the door, and said they were here to get the cakes. Only they didn't have a vehicle! They were going to walk the 10 minute trip through the fields, carrying these decorated, uncovered cakes that I spent hours on! Needless to say, the bakers had to confer with the man of the house on this one, because we were a bit protective of our cakes. We decided to call the groom (I didn't have the bride's number), and although he did not know the plan, he agreed that it didn't sound like a
good idea, so we graciously sent the girls away empty handed. A few hours later the matron came with the bride's sister and sister-in-law, and after trying gracioulsy to clear up some misunderstandings, they walked the path carrying 3 of the cakes and the young girls returned for the other 4. I wonder if that would have happened in the rainy season! TIA :)
Thursday, August 9, 2007
This Week Flew By!
Can it be that it is Thursday and I did not post anything since Monday? I am so sorry, friends! This week has flown by and I can hardly remember what I did! Now for you who know what I am counting down, the fact that this week went fast is good news! My dear husband arrives in 11 days and I really don't mind the days flying by right now!
My hands are getting a good work out this week. The spinner to our washing machine died, so even though we can wash our clothes, we have been rinsing them and wringing them out by hand! We all decided we will wear everything for many days before we put it in the wash! It wouldn't be too bad if it was just our wash, but we had lots of sheets and towels to do this week, because the guest house was full of men who stayed there for the youth camp this past weekend. If fact, Wednesday was the most I worked in a long time! Emma had to go to a funeral, so my mother and I cleaned the guest house and did all the laundry from it. Fortunately it was a great drying day, and even though the towels were initially a bit heavy on the line, they dried
before the sun went down :) And thanks to Matthew, who did a lot of the wringing of the towels. He is much stronger than us and we appreciated his help. He also helped me wash the floors in the guest house and scrubbed the tub till it sparkled!
My friend Heather left yesterday for Macha and I miss her lots! We had such fun together. She spent a number of evenings with us, eating dinner together, playing rummicube, watching CARS, and just talking. I will miss her a lot. We really hit it off, and I hope we stay in touch, even after we go back to the states. She will be in Zambia till the end of October, and we will definitely see her a few times before we leave. By the way, the day after I asked you all to pray for her health, she was all better! Thank you. She and I had gotten in a great habit of taking walks daily. Now I might have to see if Mother wants to join me, because I really liked walking. Lately I have not taken as many walks to town, but that might be
due to having more things to do here, like laundry, cleaning and baking wedding cakes! It's been good to keep busy; gotta have those 11 days fly by :) Sorry....I just REALLY miss my husband; this is LOOOOONG! God has been so faithful, though, even in my times of loneliness; he is my ever present help and joy.
The cakes are all baked with the icing on, and Friday I will decorate them. They are nothing to brag about, but they will taste good! This is the last wedding cake I will ever do, so no more ideas about "my new talent"! You know how it is, between my Mother and I, we are not good at saying no!
So, we are doing fine and in some ways it is feeling like home...if all of you were here, then it would! The only thing missing is all of our family and friends. But it no longer feels like a strange place. I see why my parents call it their second home. But for me, there is a special man at my REAL home who is all alone and I can't wait to see him on August 21 face to face!!
My hands are getting a good work out this week. The spinner to our washing machine died, so even though we can wash our clothes, we have been rinsing them and wringing them out by hand! We all decided we will wear everything for many days before we put it in the wash! It wouldn't be too bad if it was just our wash, but we had lots of sheets and towels to do this week, because the guest house was full of men who stayed there for the youth camp this past weekend. If fact, Wednesday was the most I worked in a long time! Emma had to go to a funeral, so my mother and I cleaned the guest house and did all the laundry from it. Fortunately it was a great drying day, and even though the towels were initially a bit heavy on the line, they dried
before the sun went down :) And thanks to Matthew, who did a lot of the wringing of the towels. He is much stronger than us and we appreciated his help. He also helped me wash the floors in the guest house and scrubbed the tub till it sparkled!
My friend Heather left yesterday for Macha and I miss her lots! We had such fun together. She spent a number of evenings with us, eating dinner together, playing rummicube, watching CARS, and just talking. I will miss her a lot. We really hit it off, and I hope we stay in touch, even after we go back to the states. She will be in Zambia till the end of October, and we will definitely see her a few times before we leave. By the way, the day after I asked you all to pray for her health, she was all better! Thank you. She and I had gotten in a great habit of taking walks daily. Now I might have to see if Mother wants to join me, because I really liked walking. Lately I have not taken as many walks to town, but that might be
due to having more things to do here, like laundry, cleaning and baking wedding cakes! It's been good to keep busy; gotta have those 11 days fly by :) Sorry....I just REALLY miss my husband; this is LOOOOONG! God has been so faithful, though, even in my times of loneliness; he is my ever present help and joy.
The cakes are all baked with the icing on, and Friday I will decorate them. They are nothing to brag about, but they will taste good! This is the last wedding cake I will ever do, so no more ideas about "my new talent"! You know how it is, between my Mother and I, we are not good at saying no!
So, we are doing fine and in some ways it is feeling like home...if all of you were here, then it would! The only thing missing is all of our family and friends. But it no longer feels like a strange place. I see why my parents call it their second home. But for me, there is a special man at my REAL home who is all alone and I can't wait to see him on August 21 face to face!!
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