The Journey and the Angel Travel Agent

Hi everyone! It is 8:30pm and mom was expected to land around 6pm. Well.... she hasn't left Nairobi yet. I have very little information and it has been a hectic day. Here is what I do know...

Mom missed her flight out of Nairobi. We got an text this morning asking us to help her get out of Africa. We have been the middleman with the travel agent all day long. A few minutes ago he was finally able to secure a new itinerary for mom to come home. We now expect her home late on January 2nd. The travel agent was amazing and worked 8 hours past the time their office closed so that mom could come home. We are so grateful for his dedication.

Well, nobody can say mom's trip was dull :)

Gamasara Good-bye

Today was my last time to wake up at Gamasara. By 8:00, I'd gathered everyone who needed to go to town, and we were off!

I washed and hung my clothes while Bhoke and Amina cleaned up cat hair. The missionaries' cat is my #10housekeeping problem! We had tea and butter bread when Anna arrived, and then we set off to Sirari to exchange money and make our reservation for bus tickets to Nairobi tomorrow.

We were back in Tarime by 10:00, where we visited the bank, the post office, and picked up some chips for lunch. Before we finished eating, Teddy and her daughter, Happy, came to visit. They brought me a scarf/shawl which will be perfect for the plane and the winter weather. Just as we were ready to leave the mission house, the heavens opened up. So, I got out my computer and showed Tanzanian slide shows. (Rain often changes plans in a culture where cars are rare.)

When the rain stopped, we went by the Social Security office and then to town where Anna did some shopping. About 4:00, we returned to Gamasara.

As always, there were hugs and kisses all around. I set up the Gamasara Christmas slide show so the kids could see their most recent pictures. Meanwhile, Anna supervised the kids' work on a gift for Jocelyn, a recent volunteer.

Anna sat me down in the dining hall and escorted all of the kids to the boy's hallway. They sang me a song asking me to come back to Angel House and then filed into form a circle. Each Angel held a paper with a message to me. They continued singing as one-by-one each Angel presented his message to me. Then several kids spoke.

When Anna asked me to say a few words, I was overwhelmed with love. I told the kids they will always have a Bibi Bonnie who loves them very much. We will always be together in God's Spirit. As much as they wanted me to, I couldn't promise I will be back. God's plan is always a surprise to me. After all, I ended up in Tanzania on my way to South Korea!

I handed out small bags of treats to each kid. Anna read letter from Jocelyn to the kids. Then Rosie and William prayed.

I called Kennedy to drive me home. I'd promised to see him today. We needed to get a picture of the two of us on the pikipiki. We had a heart-to-heart conversation on the way to Tarime. I told him my idea of heaven is a place where everyone you love is, a place where you never have to say good-bye. I also told Kennedy what I told my grand kids just before I left them. "When you miss me, look at the sky and remember we share that same sky, our love for each other, and God's love. (I owe that thought to my brother who wrote it in a letter from Viet Nam.). Kennedy repeated what I'd said and thanked me for teaching him something today.

I asked Kennedy if I should email Holly and the new volunteers to have them sing to him. I thought maybe he wouldn't miss me so much if they did that. He was too polite to answer me, but he said he'd be at the mission house at 8:00 tomorrow to say good-bye.

I don't think I'm going to get much sleep tonight. The bus ride to Nairobi will provide plenty of time for that. Tonight, I think I better understand how Mary felt when "she remembered all of these things, treasuring them in her heart."
Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T

Something's Up!

Today was my last Sunday at Angel House. During testimony time, I told the kids tonight would be my last one at Angel House. Tomorrow, I need to be in town so we can start the long journey to Nairobi as early as possible.

Some people stood up and thanked Grassroots and all the volunteers for their help and support. There were some tears, and the service went on.

Later this afternoon, I got a call from Anna. She said she needed to give me something and would come to Gamasara. She arrived with a charcoal iron for the kids and 2 new padlocks for the mission house. We are down to one house key, and 3 new workers will arrive next month. I will put the old lock on the well house.

The day was pretty laid back, and I even took a nap! Ten year-old Salome fell asleep in my bed before devotions last night and I didn't get much sleep. Bunks are pretty small, and my mattress rolls everybody toward the middle.

Anna and I went over finances and gave the kids the iron. Then she gave me some chips (fries) and left me in my room to eat them. When I came out, kids were running around with papers and mischievous grins. Something is up!
Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T

The Day After

Christmas is over, and I just realized I will leave Tanzania in 3 days. The rain poured down again this morning, so I waited to take the boys who needed to go to town until they'd have a drier trip. I went to the mission house to straighten and pack everything possible. If anyone steals my suitcases, they are going to be sadly disappointed. I am only taking home items for my missions silent auction and clothes I had made in Tarime.

I'm having a terrible time finding cat food for the missionaries' cat who is staying at our house until June. Kennedy, my favorite pikipiki driver even checked 4 store is Kenya. We can find dog food but no cat food.

I spent most of the day straightening the house, leaving notes for the next team, and working on finances.

I can't believe it's almost time to leave. I pray I will be able to return to Angel House. I've made so many amazing friends here. One of the nicest compliments I've ever received came from 2 staff members. The said, "Bibi's not a Mzumgu (foreigner). She's one of us.". I will always treasure those words.
Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T

Christmas Day

Christmas Day dawned cold and wet. The kids opened their presents and talked on the phone to previous volunteers the night before, but they were excited about eating goat meat and going to Goldland Hotel on Christmas Day.
I spent the morning getting kids ready for the Nativity play. Costumes and props were simple, but the kids seemed happy to dress up. I painted 8 little sheep's noses black and pinned white tails on their bottoms. I showed the kings how to adjust the fit of their crowns and used rope to tie left-over curtain cloth around shepherd's heads. Each angel received her red and white choir robe so she could practice flapping her wings. I helped Mary and Joseph wrap themselves in yards of fabric I found at the mission house. Everybody was ready by 8:00, when church was set to start.

The goat meat was being cut up, the chicken was squawking in the kitchen, awaiting its fate, and good smells enveloped Angel House. 9:00 came, and the staff came to work. Still no minister. Still no visitors.

Sheep's noses began to disappear. King's crowns were showing signs of wear. Everyone gathered in the kitchen, huddling around the fire and enjoying the aroma of spiced rice and the garlic embracing the meat. 9:15 and the minister, soggy and cold, arrived in the kitchen. Still no visitors.

Rain drenched the landscape, and we carried buckets of rainwater, dumping it into every clean bucket we could find. It is the purest drinking water available naturally, and capturing it from the roof saves a lot of steps during the never-ending task of carrying water.

9:30. The natives are getting restless. The minister supervises the placement of the giant pulpit to its place of worship. I repaint noses and adjust costumes.

10:00. The minister comes to say, "Madam, you have to get ready for worship. We have to start now.". I wonder what he thinks I need to do to be ready and marvel at the insinuation that I've been holding up the show.

Joseph, one of our more vocal Angels, begins the service with "Praise the Lord!" Which frankly sounds more like "God is a spirit" the slurs his Swahili. We settle in for a 2 hour worship service.

We stand up. We sit down. The choir is "welcomed to sing.". A few visitors arrive. They are welcomed. Worshipers are welcomed to share testimonies. We sing and clap, as Joseph selects Angels to led the songs.

Then, the Nativity play is presented. The sheep baa, the shepherds and kings touch knuckles and shake hands with the new father and fall to their knees at Mary's feet. The sheep baa some more. The holy family escapes to Egypt.

Then William and Mwita are welcomed to bring in crates of soda for everyone. My mouth is watering, since it's now after 11 and we have been tantalized by wonderful aromas since 6:00. I am thankful for the soda, and wait rather impatiently for the cap to be ripped off by a nearby Angel's teeth.

I am also thankful that the service appears to be over without the usual hour-long sermon. My soda drained, I walk to the kitchen.

"Madam! We are praying. We just gave out sodas because we need to trade the bottles for full ones. Welcome to pray, please.".

I guess my face did not hide my bewilderment because the minister repeated his request and I realized I was holding up dinner by not leading the congregation in prayer.

Several times during the next hour I asked Mary, actually now transformed back into Leah, if we were finished with the service. She just smiled and shook her head.

The sermon started. We were asked to put our hands over our hearts and repeat a prayer. I moved my mouth, but the Swahili words were beyond me.

Suddenly. the minister and Joseph were circling the congregation, shaking hands. We were joyfully released!

A feast was served. A few more guests arrived. Two kinds of rice, Goat meat, chicken, and a banana were washed down by sodas. Dishes were washed, and everyone got ready to go to the dance at Goldland Hotel.

I rode in the first truck load, 2 little Angels on my lap, and 13 more in the bed. We stopped at the big tree on the way to Tarime to fulfill my Christmas request. I wanted to have a picture of Angels dressed in their new clothes surrounding my favorite tree.

Wish fulfilled, we were deposited at Goldland just as the rain became a downpour. The small outside dance floor and a tarped sitting area were the only places that were covered, so we grabbed our littlest Angels out of the mob and sat them under the tarp. It sagged under the weight of the rain. Workers kept poking the canvas with shovels and poles to ease the strain. Then, desperate, they began slashing the canvas with knives. Too little too late. The tarp collapsed.

We grabbed our brood and sought refuge on the porch outside the hotel's lobby just as the second truck load of drenched Angels arrived. One of the workers ushered me inside the lobby where I checked my email and received a call from my daughter. For a moment, I was home sharing Christmas with my other grandchildren. I heard the voices of home and sent verbal hugs to my family.

The rain had slacked off by the time we loaded our littlest Angels back in the gari. Gamasara was a welcome sight! We changed to dry clothes and enjoyed a meal of chai and leftovers before having devotions and going to bed. But just before that, several jubilant teens hugged me and thanked me for making their Christmas so special. Talk about feeling humble!

Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T

About that Goat...

I have really enjoyed watching the goats here in Tanzania. Many are given free range, and their antics are cute and comical.

I was horrified to find out mbusi was on our Christmas menu. Since we have no refrigeration, I knew the main entre' would arrive here on hoof. Although the cooks assured me I could eat chicken, I felt bad for the goat.

Then our goat arrived. Honestly, I think the farmer must be glad to be rid of this belligerent animal! Every time I look at him, he's wrapped around a tree several times. When I go to unwrap him, he stubbornly insists on yanking me around the tree with him. After attempting to help him several times, I've come to the conclusion that this animal is too stupid to live.

Mimi kula mbusi leo! (I'm eating goat tomorrow!
Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T

Gamasra Christmas Eve

I have been checking the post office every day for weeks, but it wasn't until today that the Christmas clothes arrived. I know my daughter will find this hilarious, since I ALWAYS have my Christmas presents ready early. Usually, I start shopping right after Christmas and wrap presents around Thanksgiving. I don't enjoy the Christmas rush.

So it was that over a month ago I sorted the first 6 boxes of gifts. As Christmas got closer and closer, I frankly began to hope the other packages wouldn't arrive until after Christmas.

Well, today I got the full Santa's elf experience. I opened the girls' boxes and sorted the jeans from smallest to biggest. Than I started adding tops and dresses according to size. I listed the girls from smallest to biggest and put each stack of clothes with the corresponding-sized girl. Then I put names in the backpacks and on each shopping bag. I repeated the process with the boys.

I had the girls sorted when Anna arrived to help. We boxed everything up, had the boys load the truck, and made two trips to Gamasara. We put the boxes in the kitchen store room where they remained locked up until after supper.

THe kids were thrilled with their gifts! We were able to trade back and forth until everyone had clothes that fit. I only need to buy one shirt for a boy who had one that as too small! I was so relieved!

I was so humbled when the kids kept thanking me for the gifts. I kept telling them Dr. Lisa and Jocelyn had sent the presents, but the kids just kept thanking me. Finally, I just started saying, "You're welcome!"

I also had a wonderful surprise today. Anna, the head matron at Angel House, had a dress made for me! I have been giving away my clothes in anticipation of my departure. It is exciting to have a nice outfit to wear for Christmas. I feel so kupendeza!

I hope your Christmas Eve is filled with love and joy. Thank you from Gamasara for making our Christmas special. Good bless us, every one! (He already has!)


Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T

Christmas is Coming!

I spent the whole day at Gamasara yesterday. There's so much to do before Christmas!

First, all the kids except those going to St. Jude need to have their heads shaved for school. (Yes, even the girls!). The style is actually short anyway, so most of the kids wanted to get haircuts before the Christmas dance.

Obviously, 34 kids weren't going to fit in the truck, so I sent the ones whose haircuts were required for school first. That left the littlest Angels in tears, so I tried to explain in Swenglish that they WOULD get their turn also.

I decided the angels in the Nativity play needed to try on their robes and discovered the robes were filthy. Time to clean up our act! We filled the wash tub with soapy water and the robes. Then we took turns (Yes, your truly, too) stomping on the mixture. The kids had a ball! Tears were dry in an instant. As one kid got tired of stomping, another took over. Who knew being agitators could be such fun? Would you believe 4 of them took naps that afternoon?

After the stomping was finished, we started washing in earnest. Safeguard soap and lots of elbow grease had the robes clean in no time. Then with a kid on each end, we twisted the robes dry and hung them (not the kids) on the line to dry.

Later, after the rain, I had to re wash 2 fallen robes. My solo act wasn't nearly as much fun.

Soon the truck was back and the littlest Angel went to town for haircuts. When the truck returned, it was time to go get the goat who was donated for Christmas dinner. He was tired in the front yard, where I tried to avoid the rest of the day. If I wasn't such a carnivore, I'd be a vegetarian. I have difficulty looking my food in the eye!

When everyone was back together, we ran through the Nativity play again. Mary was advised to look more uncomfortable at the inn, and the results were hilarious. I'm so glad this is their play and all I have to do is costuming and assign roles! It's more fun to watch than to be in charge. I did put my foot down when they tried to add 3 cows to the cast 2 days before the performance. I've got my hands full trying to scrounge up gold, frankincense, and myrrh! I don't have time to costume 3 cows, too!

Soon it was time for supper, devotions, and bed. I can't believe Christmas is almost here!
Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T

Dark Day

We got up late this morning (almost 6:00!). It was cloudy, and we don't turn on the generator on non-school mornings. I marveled at the quiet as I checked my email.

My first indication something was wrong was when I saw I had 2 voice mail messages. My brother had called, and Hospice predicts our mom has just a few days to live. We decided to go ahead with our Christmas plans and then see when/if we'll need to make funeral arrangements.

My mother has had dementia for several years, and she said about 6 years ago, "I'm ready to go to heaven. I'm just not ready to not see my (great grand)babies again.". I assured her it wouldn't be heaven if she couldn't enjoy her babies.

So, I am at peace with God's timing. Please pray for Mom's painless entry into heaven, for traveling mercies for our family, and patience and wisdom during this difficult family time.
Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T

Emmanual Johnson

We had a nice surprise today. A former administrator of Angel House, Emmanual Johnson, visited Gamasara. We were very proud to show off our facility, and the kids were delighted to see him.

Emmanual is now an education director. When I arrived, Angel House sent students to 6 different schools in Tarime. School attendance was determined by a government lottery, and I think Angel House lost! Keeping track of attendance and school schedules, not to mention grades and attendance was next to impossible. Emmanual Johnson worked with Angel House to assure attendance at one primary school and one secondary school in 2010. This will greatly simplify life at Gamasara!

After Emmanual had toured the building, I introduced him to our two guards who were on duty. Then I gave Mwita, our day guard, the pleasure of showing Emmanual the shamba. The kids went along because they are as excited about the garden as Mwita. After all, each of them is responsible for a section, and they take pride in their weed-free plots.

Emmanual was really proud of the shamba and glad to see his kids again. He called us all together for a talk. Before he began, he said, "I don't have a lot to give the kids, but I'd like to give them hope.". I told him I thought hope was a priceless gift. I watched the kids' faces as Emmanual spoke to them. They listen to him talk about the importance of working hard in school and following the rules. Then he told them he and his wife loved them very much and encouraged them to share any problems or questions they might have with him.

As I watched the handsome young faces during Emmanual's talk, I thought how appropriately he was named. Like Christ, he made a special trip to give hope and express his love. His visit was a wonderful way to start the Angel House Christmas celebration!


Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T

Two productive days in a row! Today I managed to meet with James about Serengeti pictures, meet with the landlord and get repairs made for the next team, witness to a neighbor, wash my clothes, and actually manage to offer hot tea to everyone who came to the mission house! (Tea's a must for house guests here.).

Only 2 days until Christmas! I'm pumped! No new boxes have arrived, but I'm satisfied with the wonderful assortment we've already separated for the kids. If more mail arrives tomorrow, that's great. If not, someone else will have the wonderful Santa experience I've enjoyed.
Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T

Enjoying TZ

I've been enjoying my last few days in Tanzania so much I haven't taken time to blog. Sorry about that!

Yesterday, Anna and Marwa took me to Musoma. It is right on the beach of Lake Victoria and very beautiful (kupendeza!). We went to a little shop and purchased an animal batik and some cards made from fabric. I ate lunch at a buffet on the beach, feasting on the most delicious talapia I've ever tasted. We went to a flea market and then back to Gamasara. The night before was the first one had spent in town for a long time. When I arrived at Gamasara on Sunday evening, I received lots of hugs and kisses. It felt good to be home!

Today, I worked on finances most of the day. The fun part was paying the staff and giving them gifts from Dr. Lisa for their families. I was very popular!

I practiced painting sheep's noses, designed their tails, finalized Nativity costumes, and supervised the glitter painting of kings' crowns.

There's excitement in the air here at Gamasara! I love watching the kids get ready for the performance. An African slant on the Christmas story is very refreshing!
Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T

Meanwhile, Back in Tarime...

I had made arrangements to meet with James, the immigration officer who orchestrated my safari, to share pictures today. I'd hoped to catch a pikipiki ride to town with Marwa when he brought Anna to work, but that didn't work out.

Kennedy, my favorite pikipiki driver, was in Kissi, so I had Teddy, one of our AH moms, call for my ride. This young guy was a bit of a maverick, and the road was really muddy. The ride to the pavement was peppered with breath prayers. When we got to the main road, I told him I needed to go to Hilltop. When we passed Hilltop, I searched my Swahilli memory for some word equivalent to STOP! Finding none, I kept tapping the driver on the shoulder while yelling "Hilltop" in his ear. Finally, I got him to stop and walked from town to the mission house.

James was waiting when I arrived, and we invited ChaCha, our day guard, in to view the pictures with us. I was struck by how special this invitation was to ChaCha. He kept asking to make sure he'd understood me. Did I really want him to come inside the mission house to relax and share a soda? Indeed I did! ChaCha's eyes shined when I told him he was my good friend.

We worked with the computer for a long time, and the electric went out shortly after we started. So, James will return on Tuesday to load his flash drive.

I spent a relaxing day packing some souvenirs and eating some canned food that I just received from home. Then it was time to go to town.

Anna had already checked the post office for packages, so I started to the bank to check for to see if our wired money had arrived. Halfway there, I realized the ATM was probably not working because of the power outage.

I had promised my girls I'd get them menstrual pads today, so I walked to the pharmacy where I knew the workers spoke good English. I could just imagine trying to pantomime what I wanted to someone who only spoke Swahili! I didn't realize the pharmacy was owned by a Seven Day Adventist, so it was closed on Saturday.

I searched the dukas for a woman worker who might speak English. I was in luck! The first woman I tried spoke enough English to get my point across. She even left her kids in charge of the store to lead me to a duka where I could buy pads. The worker there didn't speak English, however, so I scanned the shelves looking for the Always package. A man customer asked if he could interpret for me, and I must admit it was hard for a prude like me to explain my need. When he understood, he helped me communicate my request. With the problem solved, I was able to relax and thank everyone involved over and over again.

On the way down the street, I noticed people at the ATM at another bank, so I decided to check my own. The wire had been deposited! Eager to start sorting and distributing funds, I seized the handle of the door. The bank was closed due to the power outage. The ATM was running on a generator.

I called Marwa to see if he could take the pads to the girls. Luckily, he was in town with Anna and took care of that for me. Then I walked home.

The power came back on later, and I worked with James' pictures on the computer so they'd be ready for the kids to see tomorrow.

I spent the night at the mission house because Marwa is taking Anna and me to Musoma early tomorrow, and they're picking me up in town. Boy, is Tarime noisy after sleeping at Gamasara! There's a bar (Hilltop) that plays music late at night, and ChaCha, our guard, sleeps on the porch outside my bedroom window. Added to my excitement of visiting the museum tomorrow, I didn't get much sleep.

Sleep can wait until my trip home, however. I'm sure I'll find plenty of time to sleep through the turning of the New Year in several time zones!
Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T

Constant, Continued

Sorry! I pressed the wrong key when my pikipiki arrived!

As always, God's timing for that card was right on schedule. I woke up to an email announcing my VISA card is one of the thousands which will be cancelled effective December 21. Since I am in Africa until December 31, there is no way I will have the use of my credit card while I travel. I have carefully planned my travel money, but I was hoping to use my VISA for my hotel bill in Nairobi.

Strangely enough, I didn't panic when I discovered this financial glitch. The words from TPDL came to me, and I was filled with confidence that God is in control of the situation. Several friends, African and American, have offered solutions for this problem, and I am confident God will help me select the best solution.

Meanwhile, I am rejoicing because the wired money for the Angel House budget has arrived and Anna and I can begin to sort and distribute it on Monday. That is my last big responsibility at Angel House, unless more Christmas boxes arrive before I leave.

I am amazed that I'm learning to take time to greet people, wait long periods of time to get what I need, and approach each day with a song in my heart (and often on my lips, which is often surprising to pikipiki drivers!). Living in Tanzania for over 100 days has really made me appreciate God's constant attention. Could anyone ever receive a better Christmas present than that?
Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T

Constant Attention

Yesterday, I got a card from The States with this quote from The Purpose Driven Life:

GOD has focused His attention on you.
God pays CONSTANT attention to you.
He never takes His eyes off of you.
He never stops thinking about YOU.
Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T

Hair

It's interesting how different people view the same thing. I was sitting in the bed of the mission truck while Anna bought some fresh vegetables for the orphanage. After I finally convinced the sellers that Anna had the money, we struck up a conversation in Swaenglish.

One woman pointed to her hair and said, "Wewe ya kupendeza." I couldn't believe she thought my shaggy, hair was beautiful! I thought of all the times the kids had petted my hair, surprised at its softness. I, on the other hand, love to stroke their coarse, short-cropped hair. It seems we often find beauty in things we don't have. Pity!

The other day, Vicent and I were talking. His perspective on life broke my heart. He told me Tanzania was bad, but American was good. We laughed at my patchy sun tan, and I said my sandals had made my feet look like zebra skin. Vicent's serious eyes turned even sadder. "White is better than black," he said. For once, I was speechless.

On the other hand, when I took the three girls to Lake Victoria, I was very impressed at how comfortable Rosie and Leah are in their own skin. They look life straight in the eye and carry themselves with a gracefulness Miss Universe would envy. What a treasure to have such healthy self-esteem!
Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T

I had to confront a staff member about lying today, and it was not easy. We had just disciplined two Angels about lying, and I didn't feel I could let a staff member break the rules we expect the kids to obey.

I am not patient when someone lies to me. Frankly, it makes me downright livid! Often, I have to wait a bit to control my rage. So it happened today that I was ready to state my case. When the person smiled and suggested I had missed his meaning because of language translation, I raised my voice. I'm not proud of my behavior, and I got no joy out of seeing how the rest of the staff agreed with me. Why does being assertive have to be so hard?

Still, I am glad that I stood my ground and honestly stated how I felt. I've found that wherever I go, people are people. Some folks are honest; some aren't. Some take responsibility for their mistakes; others blame everybody but themselves. None of us is perfect, and we all need to learn from our mistakes.

It is amazing to me that God is so patient with us. I guess that's why God is God and I am not!
Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T

A Calling

"Phone ringing!"flashed on the screen while I was reading my email this morning. I don't get many live calls in Tanzania, and I was excited to see my daughter was on the line.

"Mom, I just told the kids we are going to The Nutcracker tomorrow, and Zoe's hysterical. She says we can't go without Nana! It's way past her bedtime, and I can't get her to settle down. Would you talk to her?"

When I heard Zoe's sobs on the phone, I assured her I wanted her to enjoy the ballet and that we would go to a dance performance together when I got home. The sobs settled down to sniffles, and Zoe was sent to bed.

I thought about the wonder of technology which allowed me to dry one grandchild's tears half a world away even as I prepared to lead a staff meeting to benefit 34 other grandchildren right here in Tanzania. Isn't that just the way God is? When we follow His plan, He takes care of all the details.
Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T

Tanzanian Food

Some people have asked me about African food. Actually, a lot of the common dishes are similar to Native American or Mexican foods.

Typically, we eat porridge (like Cream of Wheat), manasi (fried rolls), chapati (like a tortilla) or boiled potatoes with sweetened tea for breakfast. This is served around 9:00 or so, after we've worked outside for a couple of hours.

Lunch is served around 1:00 and supper is served shortly after the generator kicks in at 7:00. Some menus for these meals are dega (sardines cooked with tomatoes and onion) and ugali (kind of like homemade Playdough), beans and rice, beans and boiled green bananas (They taste surprisingly like potatoes). Since we've moved to Gamasara, we've supplemented our meals with crops from the shamba. Often, we have cooked salsa or green vegetables cooked with onions and tomatoes with our rice or ugali.

Sweets are rare. I am amazed at the amount of food these kids can eat! Even the little ones heap their trays, and nothing is ever wasted. When one person finishes eating, he offers any left-overs to someone else. Sometimes leftovers from one meal are saved for the next.

Wonderful insulated containers keep food and chai (tea) hot until meal time. Food is usually cooked over an open fire. Beans are cooked with hot coals over the lid as well.

My favorite meals are beans and rice and green bananas and rice. I don't care for ugali, but it is like soybeans in that it soaks up the taste of any food it touches. I can eat it, especially on the days it's served with meat (typically beef).

Dega is my least favorite African food, but it has more to do with the processing than the taste. The fish are dried. When it is time to cook them, everyone sorts through them, removing the tails. Often the sorting is done on the floor! This, on top of seeing the flies on the dega when it is on sale at the market make it difficult for me to eat these little fish.

Special meals such as weddings or Christmas include chicken, beef, or goat meat. The animals wander the streets or are herded throughout town where they basically have open range. If you order chicken at a restaurant in town, you are likely to hear its last swalk before you are served.

All in all, Tanzanian food is tasty and fairly healthy. When we visited Serengeti National Park recently, I was able to buy a Snickers and some Laughing Cow Cheese. The candy tasted too sweet to me, but the cheese was heavenly. The african adults with me wouldn't try the cheese, but my boys liked it.

Part of the adventure of mission trips is experimenting with local foods, but it's always important to make sure it is thoroughly cooked, peeled, and/or boiled before eating. I don't eat the ends of bananas grown locally because I got worms from them once. Mangos, watermelon, pineapple, and passion fruit are also available.
Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T

Christmas Countdown

Today was a surprisingly quiet day at Angel House. Everyone is relatively well, and we didn't go to Tarime at all. Anna and I had planned to go to St. Jude today to talk to that ever-elusive headmistress, but Anna didn't come to Angel House.

We worked in the front yard cutting grass with a panga (machete), stacking bricks, and breaking big clumps of grass. This was all before a breakfast of porridge.

After breakfast, we washed clothes. When Anna hadn't arrived by 2:00, I decided to start assigning parts for the Christmas play. Surprisingly enough, everyone seemed rather excited about the play. Only a couple were reluctant. The most asked question was, "Who's going to be Jesus?". I assured them none of them would have to be a baby, and everyone seemed happy.

I wish I had a video camera to record the craziness of this Christmas play. I think the sheep will have the most fun, and I'm resigned to the fact this will be an original production, so I'd best roll with the punches!
Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T

What to Do

Before I left for Tanzania, several people asked me what I would do at Angel House. I honestly didn't know, so I replied, "Whatever God asks me to do."

Now that I've been here almost 100 days, I have a better idea of my "duties".. Although every day is different, let me summarize a day I had recently.

I woke up before 6, and was greeted by 10 year-old Salome before I finished my devotion. We cuddled a little before nature called. When I came back from the choo, Salome was washing the floor of my room! She helped me make my bed and then washed the floor in the hallway. Such a worker!

I washed my clothes from my safari with the help of 5 year-old Nosi and her 7 year-old sister, Bhoke. We managed to get everything laid out to dry with few squabbles.

While I was washing, I heard Joseph vomit his medicine, so I searched for William to drive us back to the dispensary.

Before we left, Anna arrived with Marwa, and we discussed how to best install supports for the upper bunk mosquito nets. We gathered lumber from the shed, loaded it in the truck, and set off for town.

We dropped the wood off to be cut to size, took Joseph to the dispensary where he was admitted, and then Anna and I went to the mission house to work on finances.

Anna and I walked to town to get food for Joseph. (Families are responsible for feeding patients while they are in the hospital). Then I went to my ATM and met Anna at the bank where we needed to deposit money for St. Jude Primary School.

Around 2, we took the lumber back to the fundi, who began work. A unexpected rain storm had blown up just as we left town, so I was completely soaked when we arrived at Angel House.

That didn't stop the hugs I got even before I dried off. I put on some dry clothes and set off again to talk with the head mistress of St. Jude. Every place we went , she had just left.

After returning to Angel House, I stole a few minutes to send some emails. Thank God for my Blackberry! It makes staying connected with Grassroots and friends and family so much easier!

I heard Majaliwa calling my name and was shown his broken bunk. Marwa had already left by that time, so I told Maja to put his sheets on Joseph's bed until we could repair the damage.

A howl greeted me as I returned to my room. Vero and Bhoke had been scuffling, and Bhoke's eye was hurt. I grabbed a wet wash cloth, sat Vero down while I attended Bhoke's eye. Then I took both girls to Abuid who interpreted both sides of the story. Fault was found on both sides, so the girls were forbidden to play together for a day.

While we were negotiating, a violent storm had begun. We grabbed every container we could find and filled theme with rain water. The roof and windows were leaking, and water was lapping at the front door. By the time the rain stopped and all the water containers were full, we sat down to eat rice and beans (my favorite!).

After cleaning up the tables and dishes, I had a little cuddle time with the littlest Angels and some time to practice dancing and karate with the older ones.

The kids led a short devotion before bedtime. I joined the rest of the staff in checking mosquito nets and saying good-night to our Angels.

Safe under my mosquito net, I used my flashlight to read my devotion and go to sleep.
Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T

Good Morning

My favorite part of the day is waking up at Gamasara. Teddy's alarm goes off at 5:00, and there's time to cuddle with the kids before tea time.

We play a little game every morning. I lie in bed battling the need to visit the choo. (It's cold in the morning!). When I see the curtain at my doorway flutter, I close my eyes and act as if I'm asleep.

"Bibi!" A little voice will say. Sometimes several other little voices will join in before I welcome the girls to come in under my mosquito net. Then we cuddle and hug until the need for using the choo forces me to get up.

I doubt I could have survived this long without being with Zachary, Zoe, and Zane if not for the loving hugs of my African grandchildren.
Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T

Best-laid Plans

It seems every Sunday we bring someone home from the dispensary. Today, I was determined not to miss church again. So, we left well before 7:00 to retrieve Joseph from the hospital.

As William and I walked out walked out to the truck, four little people followed us. I could tell from their eyes they wanted to go to town with us, so I told them anyone who had shoes on could go. It wasn't until we were heading home that I realized 7 year-old Bhoke was wearing shoes much bigger than mine!

When we got to the dispensary, Joseph was almost finished with his fourth IV, and the doctor hadn't arrived. I cleared the dirty dishes from the room Joseph shared with two other men, gave them to the little ones to hold, and sat them in front of the tv. They were happy!

We waited for the doctor for about an hour. Once he got there, things went a bit faster. He removed the IV and I paid the bill. When Joseph picked up his medicine, it was past time for church to start.

We drove home and were stopped at the police checkpoint. I was so glad I had bought a driver's license for William, but the officer said we needed insurance and two other official documents to be legal.

When we got to Angel House, the kids were still having tea and bread. I was glad we hadn't missed church. I ate a little and felt a bit dizzy, so I went to lie down. I woke up 2 1/2 hours later! So much for my plan not to miss church again!
Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T

Water, Water, Everywhere

Today, I Lucy and I finished cleaning the mission house. We went through the food and dishes, washing and throwing out anything that looked buggy. Then we both enjoyed cool showers.

William dropped us off on his way to take breakfast to the dispensary and picked us up on his way back from taking lunch.

Then Lucy and I edited the pictures from the Serengeti and relaxed by watching Kung Fu Panda, which Nate and Kate had left at the mission house.

Shortly after we returned to Gamasara, a violent thunderstorm started. Rain was coming in some of the windows, and the roof leaked in several places.

Rain presents an opportunity to save trip to the well, we filled every container we could with water. The downpour was so intense that the front porch was flooded. Luckily, the door step was high enough to keep the rain out of the building.

Supper was a bit late tonight, and was followed by our warning to use mosquito nets or else!!! Marwa and Mwita just completed the supports for the top bunks' nets today.

After devotions, we actually tucked all the kids in under the nets. I hope they will use their nets faithfully. I'd HATE to see them sick for Christmas.




Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T

There's No Place Like Gamasara

No matter where I travel, the highlight of my trip is returning home to those I love. It was the same when we returned from our safari. So many hugs and kisses greeted me! Everyone scurried to carry my things, and smiles were on every face. I can't wait to get the pictures on my computer to share them with everyone!

After the greetings, Teddy, one of our live-in staff members, told me Peter Michael was at the dispensary with a high fever, and Joseph Charles was very sick as well. William and I took Joseph to town where we were able to talk to the doctor about Peter Michael as well. Malaria was PM's diagnosis. (That is usually the case when we take our kids in. Although Mwita Magabe's most recent case was the worst I've seen.)Joseph had amoeba/digestive track infection. Neither boy had to be admitted.

I had a little time to visit with kids before the evening meal, but when we gave Joseph his medicine, the pleasantries ended. He couldn't keep anything down, including the pills. PM was able to eat a little supper, and the medication had an immediate effect his fever. (Praise God!)

We monitored both boys until bedtime, and I realized that even though I had 100 percent DEET on, I had a lot of mosquito bites that evening. So, when we tucked the kids in, I checked that everyone was using their mosquito nets. Only about 5 of our 34 were sleeping with nets!

The kids think it's uncool to use nets! It took me about an hour to locate everyone's net and get them under them. Today, I will have a kids'/staff meeting to talk seriously about using mosquito nets.

It breaks my heart to see how wide-spread malaria is here in Africa. Some people always seem to have it. High fever, muscle aches, vomiting, diarrhea, all of the systems are alarming. Sometimes, as in Mwita's case, malaria can cause hallucinations and psychotic behavior. It's scary business. Please pray for a successful malaria vaccine and for the health of our Angels at Gamasara.
Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T

S.W.A.T. Team

I have had two of the most amazing days of my life the past two days. James, one of the young men who rescued us at the border my first night in Tarime, arranged a safari for William, Frank, Emmanuel, and me. Being an Immigration officer has its perks.

We arrived at the gate about 9:00 and began scouting for animals. Before supper, we had found over 30 species and taken some great pictures. The boys stayed at a youth hostel, while I stayed at a regular hostel nearby. James and his driver, Kyle, (Yes, just like my dad and my nephew-James Kyle!) Stayed at staff housing, and our tour guide actually stayed with my boys. He helped them settle in and learn the ropes, for which I was really grateful.

Our guide is studying to be a tour guide at a university, but he knew every animal we saw in the park. I thought he was a biology major. I actually got tired of taking pictures before he was finished showing us wildlife. He even had answers to my off-the-wall questions like where the secretary bird got its name. (Secretaries used to wear black skirts and white blouse, the same colors as the bird.)

By the time we got to my hostel, I was exhausted. There was hot water for a bath and hot tea waiting for me. I was the only guest! I was in heaven.

I closed my door and went to bed, but I was too tired to sleep long. Besides, I heard animals (lions, especially) growling. How exciting!

I awoke this morning and went to open my bedroom door. It was stuck! I grabbed my nail clippers and tried to pry the latch open for an hour. Finally, I gave up and called James. Imagine my embarrassment when he climbed into my bedroom window to open my door!

One down side has been the tse flies. They are really bad here because of the animals...and they can cause sleeping sickness. We took turns swatting these persistent insects both days. At first, the guys refused to use my DEET, but finally today they gave in. Every book and notebook I'd brought was commandeered into the arsenal of our S.W.A.T. Team. I really hope there are no ill effects from these pesky critters.

I let the boys set the pace for today, and it seemed as if the animals were hiding. We spent quite a bit of time taking pictures at the Visitors' Center. The displays, art work, and video there are amazing.

Meanwhile, James and his boss were arranging a surprise for us. They drove us to a hotel owned by the Prince of India. The architecture is amazing with lots of wood carvings and traditional thatch roof. It was just as much a photo op as the Serengeti. We were told a room cost $600 a night, and dinner buffet was $60 per person. Imagine my surprise when James' boss treated us to sodas and then dinner! My heart melted when my boys asked me, "Bibi, is it Christmas?".

Before we finished supper, a native dance performance began. There were acrobatics, contortionists, Limbo (complete with fire) and hat juggling acts. Native instruments provided the music. I've never seen anything like it.

On our way home, we saw 3 animals we hadn't seen before in the park-hyena, rabbit, and porcupine. Who knew a hyena could outrun a car? And the quills on the porcupine were sticking straight out.

My 6 handsome escorts delivered me to my hostel after the power had been turned off. So, once again James came to my room to make sure the door was working. And once again I was the only guest in the hostel. A day wiser, I'm NOT closing my door tonight!
Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T

S.W.A.T. Team

I have had two of the most amazing days of my life the past two days. James, one of the young men who rescued us at the border my first night in Tarime, arranged a safari for William, Frank, Emmanuel, and me. Being an Immigration officer has its perks.

We arrived at the gate about 9:00 and began scouting for animals. Before supper, we had found over 30 species and taken some great pictures. The boys stayed at a youth hostel, while I stayed at a regular hostel nearby. James and his driver, Kyle, (Yes, just like my dad and my nephew-James Kyle!) Stayed at staff housing, and our tour guide actually stayed with my boys. He helped them settle in and learn the ropes, for which I was really grateful.

Our guide is studying to be a tour guide at a university, but he knew every animal we saw in the park. I thought he was a biology major. I actually got tired of taking pictures before he was finished showing us wildlife. He even had answers to my off-the-wall questions like where the secretary bird got its name. (Secretaries used to wear black skirts and white blouse, the same colors as the bird.)

By the time we got to my hostel, I was exhausted. There was hot water for a bath and hot tea waiting for me. I was the only guest! I was in heaven.

I closed my door and went to bed, but I was too tired to sleep long. Besides, I heard animals (lions, especially) growling. How exciting!

I awoke this morning and went to open my bedroom door. It was stuck! I grabbed my nail clippers and tried to pry the latch open for an hour. Finally, I gave up and called James. Imagine my embarrassment when he climbed into my bedroom window to open my door!

One down side has been the tse flies. They are really bad here because of the animals...and they can cause sleeping sickness. We took turns swatting these persistent insects both days. At first, the guys refused to use my DEET, but finally today they gave in. Every book and notebook I'd brought was commandeered into the arsenal of our S.W.A.T. Team. I really hope there are no ill effects from these pesky critters.

I let the boys set the pace for today, and it seemed as if the animals were hiding. We spent quite a bit of time taking pictures at the Visitors' Center. The displays, art work, and video there are amazing.

Meanwhile, James and his boss were arranging a surprise for us. They drove us to a hotel owned by the Prince of India. The architecture is amazing with lots of wood carvings and traditional thatch roof. It was just as much a photo op as the Serengeti. We were told a room cost $600 a night, and dinner buffet was $60 per person. Imagine my surprise when James' boss treated us to sodas and then dinner! My heart melted when my boys asked me, "Bibi, is it Christmas?".

Before we finished supper, a native dance performance began. There were acrobatics, contortionists, Limbo (complete with fire) and hat juggling acts. Native instruments provided the music. I've never seen anything like it.

On our way home, we saw 3 animals we hadn't seen before in the park-hyena, rabbit, and porcupine. Who knew a hyena could outrun a car? And the quills on the porcupine were sticking straight out.

My 6 handsome escorts delivered me to my hostel after the power had been turned off. So, once again James came to my room to make sure the door was working. And once again I was the only guest in the hostel. A day wiser, I'm NOT closing my door tonight!
Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T

A Little Too Much Excitement

Salma, our nurse, has Wednesdays and Thursdays off. Of course, kids usually get sickest on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Yesterday, our director took Joseph to the hospital with a urinary infection. Pascizia and Mwita Magabe didn't feel well, but Joseph seemed critical. Today, Pascizia felt better, but Mwita wouldn't eat. We kept an eye on him all day and decided if he wasn't better in the morning we'd take him to the hospital.

Just after supper, Mwita's sister, Bhoke started sobbing hysterically. She said she was afraid her brother was going to die. When we went in to check on Mwita, I couldn't tell if he was having convulsions or just crying that hard. I told Salma we needed to take him in right away. All of the boys wanted to go, but I grabbed 7 to help carry Mwita. Mwita is a tall 17 year-old.

As William raced to the dispensary, Joseph held Mwita while the rest of us froze in the back of the truck. It wasn't until we got to the hospital that we noticed William didn't have any shoes!

It didn't take long for the processing. Soon Mwita was in his room. The problem was he would not lie on his back. Every time the boys rolled him over, he would fight them. There was no way to get an IV in until he settled down. Finally, with 7 guys practically sitting on Mwita, 2 nurses managed to give him 2 shots to calm him down. I was invent ing the other boys to see if there were other injuries. We even had other men who happened to be at the dispensary helping. Arms and legs were flying everywhere! I couldn't believe how strong Mwita was when he'd been so weak all day.

We left Salma with Mwita, promising to send a replacement tomorrow morning. We're back at Angel House now, but it's hard to sleep with all the excitement. Hopefully, tomorrow will be a bit calmer.
Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T

Panic

I couldn't sleep last night because I was worried about being "in charge" of the AH budget for the month. Once again, I was having a Moses-type discussion with God. "Are you sure I'm the one for this job, Lord?"

I got my answer at least twice today. During staff meeting, I admitted my doubts about my new role. Turns out, the staff rallied around my honesty. We agreed to meet every Thursday to discuss AH and to share our observations and opinions. We will follow that with a kid's/staff meeting so everyone's on the same page.

My other answer came tonight when Daniel asked me to preach at devotion time. I chose Romans 12:4-10 and talked about how we all need to work together at AH. I asked one of the boys to translate for me. The kids were dissolved to tears by the time we were finished. Who says worship can't be fun?

The second part of my answer came when Daniel hugged me and said, "Bibi, we love you.". I especially treasure those words when they come from a 14 year-old boy.

The Lord has seen me through 3 rounds of malaria and a bout with amoeba/digestive infection. What's a month of delving out funds compare to that? I've just a month left here, and I'm going to enjoy every minute!
Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T

And Then There was One

Nate and Kate left this morning. They had gifts for the kids, and we danced the Macarana together last night. There were lots of tears and lots of hugs.

Today, Katherine, our housekeeper, and I buried our grief by cleaning. We took everything out of all the bedrooms on the cooking side of the mission house, sorted through things that needed to go to the orphanage, and put everything back. Then I moved my things into that side of the mission house. I will use my former side to sort Christmas presents.

There's one Angel I hadn't met yet. Charles Marwa, our trade school boarder, showed up at Gamasara tonight. I must say I sort of panicked. I had no Christmas plans for him, and he didn't bring any bed clothes home with him. I scurried around and found him a mattress and sheets.

I must admit I am exhausted! Teddy, one of our staff, said, "There's only Bibi here now, so everyone gathers in her room.

Financial matters are taking most of my time right now. (Not my forte'). I plan to sleep at Gamasara most nights so I can at least finish the day with the kids. Please pray for my patience. I'm spread a bit thin at the moment, and I've been a bit cranky.)


Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T