Pumpkin Processing

Saturday mornings are busy times at our house, because that's when some of our students come to work for their school fees. Susan (left) and Brenda were put to work helping me get pumpkins ready to process and freeze. We had to cut the pumpkins in half, scoop out the seeds and pulp, cut the halves into smaller sections, peel off the outer rind, and cut the sections into cubes. We ended up with a huge stock pot of pumpkin pieces that I cooked, drained, mashed, and put into freezer bags.

Brenda and Susan are on my list of most-admired people. Both are orphans, and both are 22 years old. Susan had outstanding scores on her grade nine exams, but couldn't go on to high school because she had no money. She stayed at home with her grandmother for five years. Two years ago her brother provided her with funds to go back and do grades ten and eleven. Then last November her brother died. Susan came in January to ask us for help to finish grade twelve. One of the teachers at the college is an elder in the church that Susan attends, and he highly recommended her. My sister's Sunday School class had just sent some money to us to use as needed, and those funds are enabling Susan to finish high school this year.

Brenda's parents died nine years ago. An uncle cared for Brenda and her two younger siblings for a few years, but now Brenda is the head of the family and caretaker for the children. She goes to high school in the afternoons and manages to make excellent grades. I have told her that she doesn't have to come work on Saturdays if she is needed at home, but she comes anyway in appreciation for being able to continue in school.

Susan and Brenda cheerfully and willingly did their tasks this morning and sang in beautiful harmony as they worked. It is a joy to know such outstanding young ladies, and it is a privilege to help them finish their education.