More Weekend Photos

Top: Thomas entertained the village children with his digital camera.
Lower: Sunday morning worship

A reader asked why we have internet access and the HIZ students do not. Good question! We have a satellite dish and pay an exorbitant monthly fee for 1G of bandwidth. If we go over that amount, we are bumped up into an even more exorbitant fee schedule. Last year we let the HIZ students use our system briefly, and in one day they used up one-third of our monthly bandwidth. SO we have to monitor carefully, and we typically use up our 1G with our own personal internet tasks.

Note to Concerned Mom

A mom sent me a comment and included an e-mail address that apparently is incorrect because it has come back twice now. Because I know what it's like to have a child far away, this note is for her:

Your daughter wasn't quite 100% on Saturday and decided not to go on the outreach. By Sunday she was fine.

Maambo Outreach Photos

Top photo: David and Laura Beth try out a dugout canoe. Note the "For Sale" sign on the side.
Lower photo: Getting ready for the day. Cooking fire on the left. Church building where the group slept is on the right. The rooster may become Sunday lunch . . .

Other HIZ News

Some random HIZ news and stories:

Apparently Brandon ended up in Kalomo with some HIZ girls who were shopping for chitenges, the brightly printed, 2-meter lengths of cloth worn as wrap skirts. The girls said that they dragged Brandon into the shop where they spread chitenges out all over the floor so they could make their choices. Poor Brandon was asked to offer his opinions on which of the fabric prints he liked best. I guess this wasn't his favorite Zambian experience, because he later announced, "I'm never going chitenge shopping again!"

There is a pretty serious spades tournament going on.

We made it for eight days without anyone getting sick! Now there are some sore throats and stomach upsets, but nothing too serious. Janice Bingham is great at handling all of the nursing care for the sick ones.

Donna Daggett loves to cook. Chef Leonard takes Sundays off, so Donna does the cooking on Sundays. Her specialty is pasta, and our Sunday lunches are wonderful, authentic Italian dishes.

Lindsay Turk and Cassie spent Saturday afternoon at our house just hanging out. I asked them to share their favorite experience with me. Cassie has loved getting some medical experience taking care of the babies. She went out with the clinic staff on the day when they visited villages for mother/baby care and really loved that. Lindsay reported that Ashley, the baby assigned to her at the orphanage, has made tremendous progress in the short time Lindsay has been working with her. There was some speculation that Ashley was developmentally delayed, but with Lindsay's extra attention Ashley is now pulling up in her crib and trying to babble. Wow! what experiences these girls are having! I hope I have a chance to hear more stories and share them with you.

HIZ Weekend Outreach

I'm sorry that I didn't post on the blog yesterday. The power went off in the morning and was off until 1:30 in the afternoon. At that point I was helping a Zambian apply online for a visa and was tied up until late afternoon. The power went off again at 7:00 and was off until 9:30. David left for the weekend, so I went to stay with Meagan and Louisa who do not have internet service at their house. The good news is the power has been on all day today--a first for this week.

Shawn Daggett and David took a group of eight HIZ students on an outreach Saturday and Sunday. All the students wanted to go, but since space was limited, the missions majors and some of the missions minors were the ones who went on this trip. The others will get their chance eventually! Five Zambians joined the 10 Americans, so a total of 15 headed out Saturday afternoon in the Harding Land Cruiser and our vehicle.

The purpose of the trip was to follow up on medical mission contacts in the area around Maamba, about 100 kilometers away from Namwianga. David had estimated that the trip would take about three hours, but in typical Zambian style it was five hours from the time they left here until they arrived. David and two George Benson Christian College female students cooked supper, and then the community gathered for a preaching service late that night. The HIZ group camped inside the church building, which David described as having a dirt floor, holes in the roof, and a hobbled rooster destined to be Sunday's lunch.

Sunday morning the group split up into three teams and visited three different congregations. There were three baptisms at one congregation, one at another, and six responses for prayers at the third. The Harding students taught the children's classes and gave the homilies for the Lord's Supper.

They arrived back at Namwianga around 6:00 this evening, tired, dusty, and brimming with stories of the adventure.

Power Issues

The power is on and has been on for almost four hours. That's pretty amazing after the day we've had. The power was on early this morning and then went off. Chef Leonard changed the menu for lunch so that he could cook spaghetti outside on the propane burner rather than bake chicken. The power came on, but went off again right before 1:00. It came on again during the afternoon and went off right before supper. Now it's on, but who knows how long it will last this time? We lead an unpredictable life and keep our flashlights handy.

AfriConnect technicians came and worked this morning. They have discovered several parts of the internet set-up are non-functioning and will have to be replaced. It will be several days and possibly a couple of weeks before the system is ready.

Chapel on Fridays is one of my favorite events of the week because the program always features a singing group. Today's male quartet sang four beautiful songs. Another unique feature of Friday chapel is the entire student body singing the Zambian national anthem at the start of chapel.

HIZ Update - September 11

The HIZ students have settled into schedules and routines of morning classes and special activities in the afternoons. Some went to Kalomo Hospital with Meagan Hawley when she took six babies for checkups and injections. Two of the girls went to Zimba Hospital in the afternoon to check on baby Alex who had surgery this week. They said he was doing well and should get to go home tomorrow.

The power was out most of the day, so no AfriConnect personnel came. Maybe tomorrow?

David and I took Shawn and Donna Daggett with us to Choma this afternoon. Choma is about 45 minutes away from Kalomo and has a large grocery store where the HIZ program buys most of the food for the students. The store had been without power all day and was operating on backup generators. At first the manager didn't think that the meat department could package our 28 pounds of ground beef without electricity, but they diverted one of the generators long enough to work the packaging equipment and got our order ready.

Here's today's grocery list so you'll have an idea of what we needed for the coming week:
28 pounds of ground beef
8 pounds of sausage
30 5-lb. sacks of sugar
12 liters of milk
90 eggs
12 cans of diced tomatoes
20 pounds of cheese
35 packets of ramen noodles
3 pounds of baking powder
5 pounds of carrots
6 heads of lettuce (we had to settle for just 3--that's all they had)
1 box of apples
1 box of oranges
3 gallons of cooking oil

A couple of students have had minor ailments, but no one has been really sick yet. We are blessed.

HIZ Update - September 10

We ALMOST have the new AfriConnect system up and running. The technicians came this morning and worked on it--until the power went out. They decided to go on to another job site in Zimba--and a few minutes later the power came on again. Oh well, maybe tomorrow. . .

A typical day for the HIZ students begins at 6:30 in the morning with a class taught by one of the Zambian lecturers from George Benson Christian College. Today the group had their first Tonga lesson from Kenneth Siaziyu. Kenneth also began a study of African literature with them.

Breakfast is at 8:00 followed by chapel with the GBCC students at 9:o0. Harding curriculum classes taught by Dr. Daggett and Janice Bingham fill the rest of the morning.

Lunch is at 1:00, and this is the biggest meal of the day. After lunch, students head out all over the mission to work or observe at the Basic School (grades 1-9), the Haven (orphanage), or the clinic. On some days there are additional afternoon classes in Harding subjects. Athletic practice with the GBCC students is in the late afternoons on Tuesday and Thursday.

Supper is at 5:30. Evening activities may include free time, a devotional, or rehearsals for choir members. (Tonight is the first choir practice for those who are joining the Heavenly Echoes group.)

Another Missionary Story

Brian and Sondra Davis are fellow missionaries at Mumena in northwestern Zambia. We love spending time with them and their two adorable little boys, Noah and Bryson. Brian sent us this story and agree to let me share it on our blog. I hope you enjoy it as much as we did.

This past Sunday we were finally able to meet with our newest church plant, Kyangozhi. They have been meeting together for the past two months (since our campaign medical clinic in July) with some help by a local evangelist in Solwezi town. We had only been able to come for a mid-week Bible study so far, so it was really good to be able to be with them on the Lord’s Day. There were three men and three women present, and we had a wonderful time of worship together. Sondra and I are planning to alternate our time between this new group and our other church plant in Kananga.

Kyangozhi is 17 kilometers into the bush off of the main paved road. When the rains come, we will have to have 4 wheel drive to get there for the road is pretty rough. This past Sunday after departing the church, we began to accelerate on the paved road towards home. Suddenly, I saw one of my back tires rolling out in front of me as it proceeded home faster than the rest of us in the vehicle. After giving Sondra a quizzical look, we came in for a landing on the Mumena tarmac with clear skies and a sunny 80 degrees. I thanked all for flying Mumena airways with us and warned them to take caution while retrieving their hand luggage as some luggage may have shifted during landing.

Becoming paranoid about going to church,
Brian, Sondra, Noah, and Bryson

HIZ Update - September 9

AfriConnect did not come to work on the internet system today.  It's just as well, because they couldn't have done much without electricity.  The power went off four different times today.  Our much-loved HIZ cook, Chef Leonard, had a terrible time getting meals on the table.  The power was off at breakfast time, so he cooked pancakes outside over the propane burner.  The power came on again for part of the morning, so he started the fried chicken and potatoes for lunch on the electric stove and then had to move them to propane burners when the power went off again.  Thankfully, the power was on in the afternoon long enough to get the taco soup cooked for supper--and then went off at 5:00 and stayed off until 9:00.  Whew!  Poor Leonard told me he had a bad headache trying to keep up with all this.  

Some of the HIZ students went out with Louisa Duke on the HIV/AIDS outreach today.  Others went with Meagan Hawley and Kathi Merrit and took some of the babies to the Kalomo Hospital for checkups and treatment this morning.  In the afternoon, students took off in several directions.  A few were at Namwianga Basic School to meet with the headmaster about tutoring, some went to Zimba Hospital to check on one of the babies who had surgery yesterday, and some worked at the clinic.  It is a blessing to hear all their stories when they come in at the end of the day! 

This morning was the first time that the HIZ students went to chapel at George Benson Christian College.  The GBCC student leader gave them a warm welcome and told them to feel at home.  Beginning next week, the HIZ program will be in charge of the chapel service each Wednesday.   

Everyone is still healthy and happy.  And maybe tomorrow the AfriConnect internet system will be up and running.   

HIZ Update - September 8

AfriConnect says they are on their way and should be at Namwianga on Tuesday to get the big internet system up and working.  We shall see. . .

This morning the students met briefly in their different classes to go over the course expectations and outlines.  At 10:00 Louisa Duke called from the clinic saying that a woman was about to give birth.  Kaitlyn, Kinsey, and Sarah headed up there and witnessed the arrival of a healthy baby girl!

Shawn met with the GBCC administrators and got approval for the HIZ students to join the college sports teams.  Those who were interested will start practice sessions tomorrow afternoon.   

I forgot to mention the close encounter with a snake!  Saturday night Alex and Lindsay were walking with me to our house when one of them calmly asked, "Was that a snake?"  Sure enough, our flashlights caught a two-foot black snake slithering just to our right.  Our Zambian friend Austin Siabeenzu stoned it to death before it could get any closer to the houses.  While the girls were hoping that it was a black mamba, Austin assured them it wasn't.  But it was black, and it was a snake, and the girls were remarkably calm through the whole incident.  And the mother in me used the teachable moment:  "Now aren't you glad you had your flashlight so you could see that snake and didn't step on it?"  (We've warned the students not to go out at night without their flashlights!)

Janice Bingham and I are rejoicing that after five days in Zambia, no one has gotten sick yet.  I've seen nothing but great attitudes and happy faces so far.   

HIZ Update - September 7

AfriConnect still has not come out to get Harding's internet system up and running, so I'll be posting frequent updates of the HIZ student activities to keep parents and others informed.

Everyone is still healthy, and everyone seems to be adjusting quite well to African life.  Saturday was another busy day.  In the morning the students volunteered to move the radio station equipment out of storage to the new building. Then they went to The Haven where Meagan Hawley assigned a baby to each student.  Meagan plans for the students to help some of the babies who need extra attention in order to develop properly.  It was fun to hear the students talk about their babies at lunchtime.  They've already fallen in love with those little ones.

Saturday afternoon the HIZ students played sports and games with the young people on the mission and had a great time.  

Saturday night Meagan Hawley and Louisa Duke invited everyone to come to their house for a singing devotional.  It was a wonderful experience for David and me to be part of this and to hear their gorgeous voices.  

This morning (Sunday) we attended the worship service here on campus.  In the afternoon some students went back to the Haven and others spent time with young people on the mission.  Tonight the Namwianga community hosted a gathering to welcome the Harding group.  After greetings and congregational singing, the master of ceremonies invited the HIZ group to sing and jokingly announced that they would sing a Tonga song.  Our capable students took the challenge and sang a great version of "Wabota Munzi Waba Jesu" for the very impressed Zambian audience!

We are thoroughly enjoying this new group and look forward to the rest of their time here.  

Harding in Zambia

The 21 Harding In Zambia students arrived with us yesterday.  They all seem excited about this adventure.  This morning Louisa, Meagan, and I held an orientation session  to help them learn a few things about living here.  Then they got to tour the mission, including a stop at The Haven to fall in love with the babies.  This afternoon David and some others took them into Kalomo where they had a stop at the market and other sites.  I heard there was at least one marriage proposal at the market, but no cows were offered for a dowry, so it couldn't have been too serious.  Tonight they are attending a Bible study at the Mutala congregation about four miles from here.  They're getting their first live experience of congregational singing in Tonga, and I can guess that they'll remember this for a long time.

One piece of advice I gave them this morning was to keep in touch with their parents!  So HIZ moms out there, I'm doing my best.  For now, be reassured that everyone is healthy and happy so far.  You're welcome to send me questions or ask me to check on your student if you haven't heard anything for a while.  Just write a comment with the instructions "Do not post" in the title or subject line and leave me your e-mail address.  I'll be glad to respond.  

We're Back!

We are back at Namwianga again!  The journey was easier than many of our past trips, especially since we had an overnight stop in Johannesburg, South Africa, and were able to get some rest.  Today we made the last flight into Livingstone with the new Harding In Zambia group.  We have enjoyed getting to know them and are looking forward to their stay here at Namwianga. 

The welcome from our friends and co-workers has been overwhelming!  Beatrice, my neighbor, picked me up off the ground and swung me around a few times in her greeting.  Others have been less physical but just as warm in their welcoming.  It's great to be back!

Now I'm off to sleep in my own bed for the first time in five months.  Chicken updates will follow soon . . .

Goodbyes

We are packing and preparing to leave for Zambia on Tuesday.  I think the goodbyes this time are harder than ever.  

We found out two weeks ago that David's father, Jake Gregersen, has acute leukemia.  Because of other health conditions he is not able to take any chemotherapy or other treatment.  We spent the first part of this week in Searcy with David's parents.  Jake and Margaret are people of incredible faith, and our time with them was a blessing.  Jake shared this with us about his condition:  "I have my ticket; I just don't know the departure date."  Margaret is loving and tender in her care of him, and it was a joy to watch them.  David asked his dad to name one thing he was really glad he had done.  Jake answered without hesitation, "I'm glad I married your mother."  

We laughed, we cried, we prayed, we read scriptures, we told stories.  And we said goodbye. 

It was harder this time.  

A Little Chicken Humor

If you are seriously missing my chicken stories, here are some video clips for you.   Enjoy a good laugh knowing that the star of these clips looks remarkably like the one who rules the roost in our back yard at Namwianga.  

Sad News from Zambia

We received the following news in an e-mail from Malia Heroux, Consul at the US Embassy in Lusaka:

It is with great sadness that we learned of the passing of President
Mwanawasa.

Dr. Levy Patrick Mwanawasa, S.C. was a great man and a great leader. We
will all feel his loss, but most especially the Zambian people and the
other peoples of southern Africa whom he served so courageously and
admirably.

Our deepest sympathies go to the family, to close friends, confidents,
and colleagues of the President and to the Zambian people.

President Mwanawasa was highly regarded for the many improvements his leadership had brought to Zambia. He had worked hard to curb corruption, and his economic policies reduced inflation to single digits for the first time in 20 years. He was a professing Christian.

New elections will be held within the next 90 days. Please pray for the Zambian people as they mourn and as they elect a new leader.

Cancer Free!

I had my last radiation treatment yesterday (Monday).  This morning I had a follow-up mammogram at the Women's Imaging Center.  I left there and headed down the street to my family doctor's office to get a routine TB test.  I had just taken my seat in the waiting room when the office nurse came out with a huge smile and announced that they had just received a fax from the radiologist stating that my mammogram was fine and showed no signs of cancer.  We are rejoicing and praising the Lord.  As my Zambian student reminded me in a note last week:  Doctors treat, but God heals.   More later . . .

Reality Check

Sometimes it is easy to forget that much of the world doesn't have the things we take for granted. I received the following information from Ellie Hamby who is still in Zambia. She writes:

Church leader and ZMM translator Dominic Moonga reports that over 600 people arrived in Kanchindu the day after the medical mission left. Some caught up with the medical team in Mbole, then some in Simpweze, and a few even made it to Zyangale. It is our understanding that those who made it to Zyangale had stopped at Mbole after we left, then Simpweze after we left, and then finally to Zyangale where they got there in time to be seen. It is estimated they traveled around 140 miles to try to get medical care.

(Note: Some people who came to be served on the medical mission were referred for further treatment to the Zimba eye clinic about 40 miles from Namwianga.) Ellie continues: A family (elderly man, his wife, and daughter) arrived a few days ago from the Simpweze area. They had enough money to get to Namwianga but not enough to go on to Zimba. It was after dark, so I put them up in the Hamby Bunkhouse. Justin (our security guard) told me that when he showed them the room they had never seen a light switch and did not know how to turn the electricity on and off, and they had no idea how a key worked to lock a door. Sometimes we forget that so many of the patients we see lead an extremely basic life. We did take the three to Zimba the next day as we were going to Livingstone. The man told me that as soon as he could see he was going to read the Bible. They were very appreciative of the care we gave them.

Update - August 12

It doesn't seem possible, but my radiation treatments are almost over!  August 18 is the last one.  I am still feeling great and having no side effects.  

Mark and Michele Broadway arrived back in Austin on Friday after spending a month in our house at Namwianga.  They have had stories to tell, and we have loved hearing all of them.  Here are just a few:

Dr. Richard Prather, the stateside superintendent of Namwianga and also a veterinarian, neutered our cat.  The operation apparently caused a feline personality transformation.  According to Mark and Michele, our once ornery and aloof cat is now warm and cuddly.  They think he was also very lonely without us and was ready to have some human companionship.  

The chickens are fine.  The guinea fowl are now all grown up.  According to the Broadways, the guineas fly out in the mornings and roam at large.  Then at night they fly back into the coop.  

The garden is producing well.  The people staying at our house had salad fresh from the garden almost every day.  

The beds are now out of the dining room and the dining table back in its rightful place.  

Michele taught my classes for me the last week she was there--one of the classes is pictured above.  The students wrote notes to me, and reading these truly warmed my heart.  Here are excerpts from some of my favorites.

Dear Madam,

We are really missing you in the college.  You have a heart of a mother to us.  May the good Lord be with you till we meet next term.

Beloved Madam,

Let the beauty that is in God recharge your spirit, purify your mind, touch your soul, and give you eternal joy and happiness.  I really miss you!

Madam,

We miss you and we know that by his grace nothing is impossible.  Doctors treat but God heals.  God be with you till we meet again.

Dear Madam,

I was really grieved when I received the message that you have breast cancer.  I opened the Bible and read from the book of Psalm 121.  From the word of God I realized that God is there for you.

Dear Mum,

You are so dear to me and your absence has really made a big difference in my lectures and spiritual life.  You're an inspiration to me.  I know we worship the true God who will show us the right way.  It is my prayer and hope that you will become well and back.  I miss you so much Mum.

Dear Auntie,

If I was an angel I would look after you 24 hours, but since I am only human I will always pray for your recovery.  You are greatly missed by me.  

Dear Mother,

Your absence physically has created a huge empty space both in my spiritual and physical life. . .  Get well soon Mother.  Africa and Namwianga need you!

What wonderful encouragement and motivation to get back to African soil and the work there!

  

Jason Update

Meagan also sent this video of Jason singing in both English and Tonga.  He and Bernard both call me Nana.  

Bernard's Goodbye

Mark and Michele Broadway returned from Namwianga this week and brought us photos and videos of Bernard and Jason.  Meagan made this video of Bernard way back in April when he was leaving with his new step-mom.  For new readers, Bernard is one of the Haven orphans that David and I fell in love with and kept at our house several times.  He has now gone home to his village.  

Update - August 6

Only ten more radiation treatments to go!  Last week my oncologist ordered heavier doses of targeted radiation and warned me that I should expect side effects.   So far nothing has happened.  I'm actually experiencing less fatigue than in the last week or two.  God is good all the time.

We have been having some Africa experiences here in Austin.  During a Bible study last week the electricity suddenly went off for about five minutes.  Then the internet connection went dead on Sunday at the Broadway's house where we are living.  It came back on briefly yesterday and then went out again.  We had it repaired today, but it requires a password that we have forgotten.  We've e-mailed the Broadways (who are in our house in Zambia) and asked them to send it to us, but they're having their own issues with electricity and internet service in our house, so who knows when we'll be able to connect?  In the meantime we are using the wireless connection at the church building.  

We had a great weekend with fellow missionaries Don and Laura Oldenburg who came from Abilene to see us.  Don is almost finished with his radiation treatments.  Although he will finish ahead of me, he has more follow-up tests to get through, so David and I will be back in Zambia a few weeks before Don and Laura can get there.  It is always a joy to share our love for Zambia and our ideas for the future of the work with them.  

Update - July 29

Today was my 19th radiation treatment--just 14 more to go.  Still no real side effects, and I've actually had more energy this week than I did last week.  Dr. Nuesch assures me that the side effects will happen . . .

Another blessing of our extended stay is that David was able to go to the Global Missions Conference in Arlington last week.  He saw many of our friends from years past and made some new connections.

The medical mission ended on Tuesday last week.  I haven't heard the totals on the number of patients served during the six clinics, but Rodgers Namuswa e-mailed us that there were 137 baptisms.  

Most of the team came home last weekend, but Mark and Michele Broadway are staying an extra 10 days.  Michele is teaching my English classes at GBCC.  She and Mark are also helping with some teacher training workshops at area schools.  

We discovered some slide shows on the Namwianga mission website that we hadn't seen before.  You might want to take a look.  

The Kitchen is Where It's At

The dining room furniture was moved into the kitchen during the medical mission.   My kitchen is pretty small, but that didn't stop it from being well used.  

Here's the report from Michele Broadway:

When we got back from the first set of bush clinics, Mrs. Jope had given Richard Prather 30 eggs.  So Friday morning we had scrambled eggs!  Someone went down to the Hamby house and got buns and butter to go with the eggs, and it was delicious.

By the way, we (actually we're not sure who did it) broke the French Press (filter press coffee maker), we used up all your Crystal Lite lemonade mix for the reception, and we've eaten three bags of blueberry muffins.  We would have made cookies, but the mixes require eggs and a stick of butter.  We had the eggs, but we ate them all.  We're starting a grocery list for our Livingstone trip.  We've totally rearranged all your furniture and the house is a mess!  We've also been slipping and sliding on your concrete floors--on purpose!

Imagine your kitchen (see photo) with the dining room table in it and 10 or so people either sitting at the table or standing around it trying to cook eggs, wash plates, pour coffee out of the hole in the side of the French Press, make and pour tea, and feast!  There is a really great group of people staying here, and it has been really fun.

I'm so glad that our house has been used for such great fellowship, ministry, and fun!  

Rearranging the Furniture

Michele Broadway sent this picture of our DINING ROOM at Namwianga.  Our whole house was used by medical mission team members--18 in all!  

Last Friday (the 18th) the team was at the Mission in between two sets of clinics in the bush.  It was the day to do some projects around the mission, get laundry done, and repack for the second set of clinics.  

Michele writes: 

Then the power went out.  The laundry for the people staying at our house was still not ironed, and some was still on the line and didn't get dry.  

We went to eat dinner at Roy and Kathi Merritt's in the dark (but still delicious).  We got back to the dark house and tried to sort out laundry.  I couldn't find any of my socks, and other people were missing various laundry pieces, so we did a mass search for socks, etc., with flashlights.  Mine were found on top of a bunk bed in another bedroom.  Everyone packed for the next outing in the dark and then went to bed.  

Update - July 22

Radiation treatments continue to go well with minimal side effects.  I've now completed more than a third of the required 33 sessions.  

We made arrangements for our return flights to Zambia.  God willing, we will leave from DFW on September 2 and arrive in Livingstone on September 4.  On our flight from Johannesburg into Livingstone we will be with the new Harding In Zambia group, and we are looking forward to meeting the students as they begin their time at Namwianga.  

We are keeping up with Zambia Medical Mission through their blog site.  It sounds like the work is going well.  They are now in the second set of clinics out in the bush.  I know from experience how much they are looking forward to hot showers and a soft bed!    

Zambia Medical Mission

Today is the first day of clinics for the 2008 Zambia Medical Mission.  Click on the link to view the team blog.

Update - July 12

We're in Abilene this weekend and just attended the Saturday afternoon wedding of Nathan Driskell and Jesiree Guerrero.  Nathan grew up with our kids at Brentwood Oaks, and we were so pleased to be at this celebration.  Nathan's mother, Tammy, gave me a hug at the reception and said, "I'm sorry for the reason that you have had to stay in the US longer, but I'm so glad that you were able to come to the wedding."  

I agree.  We have had many other unexpected and blessed experiences during our extended stay.  We have been able to spend relaxed times with John and Leah--having them over for meals, sitting by them in church, and just being with them.  And Sara is coming to spend the next week with us, so we'll have additional time with her.  I've also gotten to spend time with old friends, visit shut-ins, and be part of an intensive small-group Bible study.  I thought I would be miserable without a job or a major project running my life, but I'm finding that I can stay quite busy and happy just being.  I guess it's all part of having this blest cancer.

My radiation treatments are going fine--8 down and 25 to go.  I still have no side effects.  In fact, I'm walking four miles a day and feeling great--no fatigue yet!  God is good all the time.  

Thanks for your prayers.  

Another Lesson from Feathered Friends

Following is an excerpt from Anne Graham Lotz's book Why? Trusting God When You Don't Understand (Thomas Nelson publishers, 2004).

A Tale of Two Birds

A turkey and an eagle react differently to the threat of a storm. A turkey reacts by running under the barn, hoping the storm won't come near. On the other hand, an eagle leaves the security of its nest and spreads its wings to ride the air currents of the approaching storm, knowing they will carry it higher in the sky than it could soar on its own. Based on your reaction to the storms of life, which are you? A turkey or an eagle?


It's natural for me to be a turkey in my emotions, but I have chosen to be an eagle in my spirit. And as I have spread my wings of faith to embrace the "Wind," placing my trust in Jesus and Jesus alone, I have experienced quiet, "everyday" miracles:


His joy has balanced my pain.

His power has lifted my burden.

His peace has calmed my worries.

His grace has been more than adequate to cover me.

His strength has been sufficient to carry me through.

His love has bathed my wounds like a healing balm.

Soaring has become an adventure of discovering just how faithful He can be when I am way out of my comfort zone in the stratosphere over the storm. Soaring is an adventure of discovering by experience His answer to my pain. . .

Soaring is so exhilarating, I find increasingly that I am no longer content to live in the barnyard of familiar comfort just for the relative security that seems to be there. I want to live by faith.

The book is available from www.christianbook.com.

Update - July 7

I had three radiation treatments this week starting on Tuesday.  There is no pain or real discomfort involved in a treatment session.  I just lie on a table while the huge linear accelerator buzzes around me for 10 minutes, and then I leave.  Side effects don't usually occur until two or three weeks after radiation begins, and I've had at least two friends who say they never had any bothersome side effects, so I'm hoping to be like them.

Our friends Mark and Michele Broadway left on Saturday morning for Zambia.  We all agreed that it was strange for us to be taking them to the airport instead of the other way around.  We will be trading spaces for the next month--we moved into their house here in Austin and they will be staying in ours at Namwianga!  They had already planned to stay a week and a half after the medical mission,  and Michele has agreed to teach my English classes for me during that time.

A dear friend sent me a chicken story this week.    He had heard a sermon on thankful prayer. A preacher shared a story told by Jim Bill McInteer that supposedly came through his grandmother.  Here it is:  How do chickens drink?  They go down to the water, then raise their heads up to the sky to thank God, then swallow the water.  Jim Bill said he never wants to be outdone in prayer by a chicken. 

I agree, and I'm finding many things to be thankful for each day of this journey.  

The Crane

We love to hear stories of how God is working in amazing ways at Namwianga! This week we received a report from Ellie Hamby who has been there since early June. The mission is trying to get a radio station up and going. The tower and other basic equipment were sent over from the US on two different containers. One container has already arrived, so Ellie and Andrew Sibwaalu, the maintenance supervisor, have been trying to get the tower erected. Here is Ellie's account of what happened.

It is interesting doing anything in Zambia, and the scenario surrounding the erection of the radio tower was no different. The company that we contracted with to build the tower was having no luck getting a crane company from Lusaka to come to Namwianga to assist in erecting the tower. They could get one to come, but the company wanted to charge $500 per hour. It would take at least 6 hours for them to get here and that was just one way. The tower team working at Namwianga talked to our maintenance director, Andrew Sibwaalu, and asked him to help them locate a crane. Andrew came to me on Wednesday to see if anyone was going to Choma (about 40 miles away). I told him no and suggested he take a bus or a taxi and go see what he could do. To my surprise, a huge truck with a crane arrived at the tower site three hours later!

Here's Andrew's story. He hired a taxi in Kalomo and was on his way to Choma. As they were driving toward Choma, he was amazed to see a big truck with a crane meeting them on the road headed toward Kalomo. Andrew got the taxi driver to turn around and catch up with the truck. Andrew asked the crew on the truck where they were going and found out they were headed for Livingstone (another 100 miles down the road) to do a job. Andrew then asked, “Would you mind taking a small deviation and go to Namwianga to help us erect the first four sections of our radio tower?" They said they would and agreed to do it for a very reasonable fee. They came to the mission and worked for about three hours and then left for Livingstone. While they were there, I (Ellie) talked to them and asked if they would move the other container that is going to house the studio to a place near the base of the tower. They said they would stop on their way back from Livingstone on Monday or Tuesday and place the container in the right spot. Again, they agreed to do this for a very reasonable price. God is amazing to arrange a crane appearing on the road between Choma and Livingstone at just the right time. I (Ellie) have been on the roads in Zambia many times over the years and have never seen a crane being moved.

Update - June 29

We spent four wonderful days at Blue Haven last week.  We stayed in the cabin pictured above, but spent most of our days at the camp.  We were blessed to be part of rich worship assemblies and once again marveled at the beautiful singing.  We taught classes each day while we were there and enjoyed our interactions with the campers and counselors.  On Tuesday we did a special presentation for the counselors and encouraged them to consider short- or long-term mission work after they graduate from college.  We renewed old friendships and made some great new ones.  

We left Thursday morning for the 12-hour drive back to Austin so that I could be ready for my all-important appointment on Friday morning to get set up for radiation treatments.  We had been out of cell phone range all week, so when we approached Lubbock on Thursday afternoon I checked our voicemail.  James from the Oncology Center had been trying to reach me since Monday.  When I called him back, he informed me that my Friday morning appointment would have to be rescheduled since the CAT scan machine would be out of service beginning Friday morning and would not be up and working again until July 7.  He wanted to schedule me for Thursday afternoon, but since it was 2:30 and we were seven hours away from Austin, that wasn't an option.  I had horrible visions of delaying treatments and our return to Africa for an additional 10 days.  I was especially frustrated that James hadn't tried to try to e-mail me--I had figured that as long as we were getting our e-mails I was in contact with the outside world.  Poor James said he'd talk to the doctor and see what he could do.  He called back a few minutes later assuring me that Dr. Nuesch was insisting that I get the radiation set up and started as soon as possible (bless you, Dr. Nuesch).  The technician from his office agreed to meet me in Round Rock on Friday and use the CAT scan machine there to do the set up.   Whew!  

The appointment on Friday went well.  Now Dr. Nuesch will use the CAT scan to determine the exact radiation plan, and I'll start treatments on Tuesday.  The treatments are supposed to last just a few minutes, and I'll be having one each weekday for the next six and a half weeks.   That will put us at mid-August.  Hopefully I can then rest for a couple of weeks and be ready to head back to Zambia in early September.  

For now we are pretty tied down to Austin.  We are hoping to do some presentations about our Zambian work at area congregations.  If you know of a congregation or group that might be interested in hearing about the work there, please let us know.  

How to Pray for Someone Dealing with Cancer

I have often struggled to know how to pray for someone who is fighting a long-term illness like cancer. Usually my prayers for others have been vague requests for healing and for strength for the patient and the family.

Now I am the cancer patient in need of prayer, and I suddenly understand how much more specific intercessory prayers can be. I have been blessed to hear the targeted, heart-felt prayers of my Christian friends as they have lifted me up before the Father. From them and from my experience, I offer the following suggestions as you pray for me or for others who are fighting cancer.

I believe that God works through the physicians, technicians, and caregivers who are treating me. I have seen how much precision and knowledge is involved in procedures, lab work, diagnosis, and treatment plans. I think it is certainly appropriate to pray for the medical personnel, asking God to use their skills and to guide them in their interpretations of medical reports, and in their decisions about diagnosis and treatment plans.

When possible, pray for the doctors by name. My main oncologist is Dr. Hellerstedt, and she oversees my treatment plan.  Dr. Nuesch (pronounced New-ish) is my radiation oncologist. Tomorrow (June 30) he will be determining the plan for my 33 radiation treatments. This requires a high degree of skill and precision to ensure that the correct radiation is used in exactly the right areas, so prayers for Dr. Nuesch are in order. A good outcome also relies on machines that work correctly and technicians who follow the prescribed plan, so that, too, can be a matter of prayer.  

Some of my prayer warriors have asked for specific times when I will be in surgery or in treatment and have committed to pray for me at those times. Beginning on Tuesday, I will have radiation at 10:00 every weekday, and your prayers are much appreciated.

Cancer is a frightening disease that can easily overwhelm the patient’s thinking and lifestyle. I have heard my friends pray that I will have peace and confidence as I face treatments. I have felt God’s peace throughout my ordeal, often feeling that I am riding on the wings of those prayers.

Cancer affects the entire family. They, too, are frightened and have had their lives changed by this unwelcome interruption. How comforting it is to know that friends are praying for David, Sara, John, and Leah, as well as for David’s parents and our siblings.

At times, I have found it difficult to think clearly, especially when I’ve been overwhelmed by information about cancer and treatments. Prayers for clear thinking are certainly appropriate.

My desire is that God will be glorified by whatever happens. I am constantly aware that my attitude and my faith are on display to the medical personnel and to my friends and family as I deal with this disease. I need prayers that I will be able to show God’s power at work in me so that God receives the glory.

I’ll close with the words of Paul in 2 Corinthians 1:10b-11. On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us, as you help us by your prayers. Then many will give thanks on our behalf for the gracious favor granted us in answer to the prayers of many.

Bernard and Jason Update

Meagan sent me the latest news on Bernard and Jason.  Bernard is doing well with his father and new stepmother.  He is attending preschool and even gets to call Meagan and talk to her on the phone occasionally.

Jason's grandmother came to Namwianga and talked with Cecelia Siafwiyo,  the housemother for the Haven.  The grandmother says she cannot take Jason and doesn't think there is anyone else in the family who can or should have him.  The Merritts have decided that he will move in with them at Eric's House.  He will have a bright future there with lots of attention from the other boys and many opportunities to develop his incredible athletic ability.  And we will be able to see him all the time!  

I miss the little guys and can't wait to get back to Namwianga and see them again.  Keep them in your prayers.

To BOCC Parents of Blue Haven Campers

Just a quick report on the Brentwood Oaks campers who are a Blue Haven this session: Everyone seems healthy and happy. All of them are telling me that they are having a great time, and not a single one will admit to being homesick. I served in the lunch line today and made sure to check on the youngest boys as they came through. They are all clean, and they assured me that they are taking showers every night. Moms, breathe a little easier--your kids are doing fine.

Looking Up, Continued

I continue to be amazed at the blessings God is sending our way.

On Monday I met with the radiation oncologist, a very helpful doctor who grew up in South America as the child of missionaries.

My second surgery on Tuesday was a breeze, barely slowing me down for a few hours. On Wednesday we were able to make a quick trip to Fort Worth to see Carly Branscum (daughter of long-time friends Cary and Pam) sing a solo in the finale of the Summer Spectacular musical. I’ll admit I slept all the way home and was pretty worn out the next day, but it was worth it.

On Thursday I met with a nutritionist. It turns out that she is from South Africa! Since my follow-up care will have to be in Johannesburg or Capetown, she offered to help me find medical professionals or help with any other needs when the time comes.

The pathology report came back on Friday showing clear margins, so now I am set to begin radiation treatments the first of July. We left Friday afternoon and drove to Abilene where we spent the night with Don and Laura Oldenburg, our co-workers at Namwianga. They have been back in the US since late February because Don is also battling cancer. He has already been through his chemotherapy and just started on radiation treatments this week. We have a good-natured contest going to see which of us can make it back to Namwianga first. Laura is a nurse who has worked in oncology, so she has been very helpful to me, and it was great to visit with them.

On Saturday we traveled on to Camp Blue Haven in Las Vegas, New Mexico. Sara and John were campers here from the time they were old enough to go, and we spent eight summers teaching Bible during second session, so this place is near and dear to our hearts. We had a warm welcome from old friends as well as the many BOCC campers who are here. The cool mountain air and the rugged beauty of the mountains just add to the joy of being at a place that is aptly described as “a mile and half toward heaven.”

The camper talent show on Saturday night brought back many memories, and we loved seeing our Brentwood campers in action. Many of them are former students from my second grade classes, so that made it extra special for me.

We are staying in a beautiful log cabin nestled in the pines of the Blue Canyon. The temperatures were down in the 50s last night. Today the sun is shining, the air is crisp and clear, and we are headed for Sunday morning worship with the campers.

We are richly blest.

Good Report

The pathology report from my surgery showed sufficient clear margins.  We are rejoicing.

Right now we are headed for Camp Blue Haven in Las Vegas, New Mexico.  Leah's aunt and uncle have a cabin in the Blue Canyon, and we are going to spend a few days there before my radiation treatments start.  We will be there during second session at the camp--the session we attended as Bible teachers for many years.  We're looking forward to re-connecting with some of our fellow teachers from years past, and we'll also get to see the Brentwood Oaks campers who are there now.  An added bonus will be cool mountain air--a welcome relief from Austin's oppressive heat.  

The Parents of the Groom

David and I probably haven't been this dressed up since our own wedding 32 years ago.  We thoroughly enjoyed the joyous day--definitely one of the happiest in my life!  God is good all the time.

The Wedding

John and Leah's wedding on Saturday evening was beautiful.  We had a wonderful time with family and friends rejoicing over God's goodness in bringing these two together.  

Surgery Report

My surgery on Tuesday went well.  I had a general anesthetic this time, so I spent an extra hour in recovery.  Other than that, everything is great.  The pathology report is due back on Friday--we're praying for clear margins greater than 2 millimeters.  

I have met with the radiology oncologist and will start radiation treatments on July 1.  

Thank you for your prayers and concern.

More Surgery

I am scheduled for a second surgery on Tuesday, the 17th.  Although the pathology report for the first surgery showed no invasive cancer, it also showed that there was not a wide enough margin, or area of clear tissue around the cancer site.  This time the surgeon will take another layer for examination to make sure that all of the cancer has been removed.  It should be even simpler than the first surgery and will require very little recuperation time.

It does set back the start of radiation treatments for another two weeks, but that gives us some time to do a little more traveling.  

We continue to be blessed by the prayers and concern from family, friends, and blog readers.  We appreciate you!

Looking Up

This week I have once again been reflecting on the life lessons I've learned from my chickens (see an earlier post). I remember feeling such pity for the terrified hens who cowered in the corner of the pen, blinded by fear and unaware of the bread chunks that were being thrown into the pen for them. As I have faced a diagnosis with cancer, interrupted life plans, and an uncertain future, I have vowed that I will keep looking up and recognizing the blessings God is trying to shower on me.

Here's this week's list. My surgery on Tuesday went well and my recovery has been unexpectedly easy. I feel great! The pathology report looks good with no signs of invasive cancer. I have been able to spend lots of time with Sara, John, and Leah in the past week. I am surrounded by a wonderful, caring church family and a rock-solid group of friends to care for me. I've gotten many e-mails and cards with messages of encouragement and concern. I have time to rest when I need to. People from Texas to Zambia are praying for me, and I feel like I am riding on the wings of prayer. God is good all the time.

I am richly blest.

This week I will meet with the surgeon on Tuesday and my oncologist on Wednesday to develop the rest of my treatment plan. Next Saturday is John and Leah's wedding in Brady, so we'll be busy getting ready for that.

Surgery

My surgery today was quick and uneventful.  I was able to go home after just an hour in the recovery room.  I'm feeling great and enjoying lots of TLC from friends and family.  

Surgery Scheduled

I met with the surgeon yesterday and have out-patient surgery scheduled for Tuesday, June 3.  

I've had a new thought about the next few months.  Zambians, especially Tonga speakers, tend to reverse Rs and Ls.  They say they are "leady to go" and tell us to "turn light at the next corner" and announce "let us play."  So it's likely that many of them will say that I have BLEST cancer instead of breast cancer.  That sounds good to me!  I've decided that I'll have BLEST cancer.

So far that has been very accurate.  We are overwhelmed with expressions of concern and encouragement.  We met with Ellie Hamby in Abilene and have figured out how to get our responsibilities at Namwianga covered for the next three months, thanks to the many people who stepped up and volunteered to help.  

God is good--all the time.

Life Interrupted

I have often thought that the best description of my time as a Zambian missionary would be “Life Interrupted.” The title fits on many fronts. My life as a teacher in the US was interrupted when we sailed off on our adventure to Africa. My life in Africa is one interruption after another—people knocking on the door, a constant stream of visitors, chores to be done, power outages, water shortages, and endless inconveniences.

Those interruptions pale by comparison to the one I am now facing. I have been diagnosed with breast cancer. The problem showed up on a routine yearly mammogram, and the initial diagnosis indicates that the cancer is in a very early stage—Stage 0 on a scale of 0 to 4. The kind of cancer I have is called Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS), and if I have to have cancer, I guess it’s one of the milder forms to have. It is not life-threatening; the five-year survival rate is nearly 100%, and chemotherapy is not required as part of the treatment.

This is, however, a colossal interruption in my life plans! My head is reeling with all of the things that I need and want to be doing in Africa, and my heart is aching for the people I miss over there. And as much as I love my children, family, and friends here in America, this is not where I want to be past my son’s wedding date on June 14.

I met with an oncologist Thursday and have an appointment with my surgeon on Wednesday. The treatment plan is to schedule a lumpectomy for the first week in June if the surgeon is available. Then after John and Leah’s wedding on June 14, I will have six and a half weeks of radiation therapy. My oncologist agrees that if all goes well I can return to Africa soon after I complete the radiation treatments.

For now, I ask for your prayers. My desire is to get back to Africa as soon as possible and continue my work there. More than that, however, is my desire to do God’s will, so please pray that whatever happens, God will be glorified. Pray that the surgery can be scheduled quickly and will show no additional cancer. Pray for my doctors as they interpret test results and plan treatment. Pray for David, who is, as he has always been, solid as a rock in times of trouble. Sara, John, and Leah need God’s strength to deal with this shock—especially since John and Leah are in the middle of planning a wedding. Pray for the Zambian students who will be without a teacher and sponsorship coordinator while I’m recovering. Pray that God will send someone who can fill in for me during the next few months.

And remember my recent blog about the lesson from the chickens? I wrote that during the time I was waiting for a diagnosis, and I was preaching to myself. Pray that I’ll keep looking up and recognizing the help God is sending and the blessings that are falling on me.

If you want to know more about DCIS, a good web site is www.breastcancer.org. And ladies, schedule those yearly mammograms!

I will keep my progress posted on the blog. Encouraging comments are welcome, and if you don’t want your comment posted for others to read, just let me know and I will enjoy it privately.

Update - May 23, 2008

We have been incredibly busy this month with family gatherings.  The first weekend in May we traveled to the Baytown, Texas, area to celebrate the 60th wedding anniversary of David's parents.  

Jake and Margaret have spent their lives serving the Lord and are an inspiration to us. In the late sixties Jake left his job in Baytown with Exxon and their family moved to Rochester, New York, with the Exodus movement.  They stayed there working with the Southside congregation until 1981.  Then Jake and Margaret moved to Searcy where Jake studied in the Christian Communications Program at Harding for two years.   After graduation Jake spent the next ten years preaching for congregations in Arkansas.  

The reception for Jake and Margaret was a wonderful reunion time as they were able to visit with many friends and relatives.  Remarkably, many of the original wedding party were at the reception, including the flower girl, ring bearer, all the groomsmen, and all but one of the bridesmaids.

It was a joy to celebrate this occasion with them.

Another Lesson from My Chickens

I have been surprised that so many friends and relatives tell me they enjoy my chicken stories! And I will confess that right now I miss my feathered friends and their antics. Maybe it’s because I learn a lot about myself from watching them. Here’s one of those chicken lessons.

Not all is sweetness and light in the chicken pen. I have learned from my observations of coop life that the terms hen-pecked, pecking order, and old biddy have very real meanings. This is especially evident when I add a new hen to my fowl community. It’s not pretty. The older hens, secure in their established pecking order, make sure the newcomer knows her place.

The welcoming routine is both fascinating and horrible. The new hen is dropped into the pen. Exhausted from struggling against her human captor, she flees to a corner and crouches. At least two of the old biddies strut over, cocking their heads as they fix their beady eyes on the new chicken. They watch her closely, and if she dares to move too quickly, they’ll deliver a strong peck to keep her down.

Eventually they will decide that she’s sufficiently cowed, and they’ll walk away. When the new hen gathers her courage, she’ll cautiously stand, shake out her feathers, and make her way to the food trough. There she’ll be met by a hostile ring of hens who will stick their tail feathers in her face and make sure she doesn’t get a bite until they have first stuffed themselves.

For the next week, the new hen is ostracized and subjected to hostility that might be compared to a junior high girls’ clique at its very worst. When the pecking order is firmly established and the senior hens are sure the newcomer understands it, the new hen is finally accepted into the brood and life goes on.

After watching this agonizing ritual a couple of times, I decided that I would try to help the next tortured newcomer during her adjustment. I took out crusts of stale bread. The older hens crowded near the fence, ready to jump for their share. I threw some in for them, and then while they were busy eating, I lobbed some extra big pieces to the newcomer who was hiding in the back corner of the pen.

I wish I could tell you that my kindness was gratefully acknowledged—that the abused one grabbed the airborne morsel and feasted in peace. But it didn’t happen that way. The new hen was so terrified that she didn’t even look up to observe the falling gift. Driven by fear, she ran away. The food dropped to the ground and was soon gobbled up by the undeserving tormentors.

I tried again and again, with each new pen addition. The same thing happened every time. First I was shocked, then sad, and then frustrated Why wouldn’t those silly hens look up and see their help and relief coming?

One day it dawned on me that I may be like my misguided fowl friends. Maybe my terror over life's uncertainties sends me running wildly just when God is trying to help me. And maybe I'm so panicked during my hard times that I don’t recognize the blessings God is showering on me. Could I be letting others gobble up the good things God intended for me while I cower in faithless fear?

My chicken lesson has given me new resolve. When I’m afraid, I’m going to look up. I’m going to watch for God’s help and recognize it when it comes.

Georgia Hobby

We spent Mother's Day weekend in Searcy with David's parents.  On Sunday morning David preached at the Cloverdale church, and there we were privileged to visit with Georgia Hobby.  Mrs. Hobby and her husband, Alvin, were missionaries at Namwianga for 38 years.  Her heart is still in the work there, and she was eager to hear about our work.  She told us not long ago that she still dreams in Tonga occasionally.  

Missionaries like Mrs. Hobby are an inspiration to us.  Their level of commitment and the hardships they endured put us to shame.  Mrs. Hobby told us on Sunday that they stayed 15 years in Zambia before they came home on their first furlough!  

 

Peace Corps Friendship

Shown here with us is Jalle (Jah-LEE) Gibesa, the Peace Corps worker who served the Kalomo area for the past two years.  Jalle quickly became a treasured friend and we enjoyed her visits immensely.  I've said before that I have the utmost respect for the hardy Peace Corps volunteers.  They live alone in thatched huts with no electricity or running water and rely on bicycles for transportation.  We have found them to be deeply committed to helping the Zambian people.  We've also discovered that they are able to find humor in the direst of circumstances, and we have enjoyed the many hilarious stories they tell us about their adventures.  

We took this photo when Jalle came to tell us goodbye.  She has completed her two-year stint in the Peace Corps and has now returned to the US.  She plans to become a doctor.  I'm confident that her experiences serving in Zambia will make her an especially competent and caring physician.  

Women's Meeting, Last One

Here is the final installment of Roy Merritt's report on the women's meeting.

Top Photo:  Women formed prayer groups on the lawn while waiting for meals.

Middle photo:  The men worked 18 hours a day to feed the crowd.  It took three hours to serve each meal, with supper often ending after 9:00 p.m.

Lower photo:  Food at last!  

More Photos of the Women's Meeting

I can only imagine how wonderful the singing was when all these ladies praised the Lord together!  

Women's Meeting, Part 2

Roy Merritt continues:

Numbers eventually reached 4000 women and uncounted numbers of children.  Men hauled all the benches from the auditorium, all the classroom chairs, and all the benches from the dining halls and packed them in the high school quadrangle.  

The photographer could not get high enough to picture everyone in one frame.  

Report of the Women's Meeting

Roy Merritt sent out a report of the national women's meeting that was held at Namwianga last week.   He writes:

Women of the Zambian church gather once a year.  This year we were the hosts.  We expected 2,000 to 2,500.  Men of the Namwianga congregation prepared the campus and braced themselves to cook for such a crowd.  Our high school dormitories handle about 300, and our college looks after about 200.  We knew our facilities would be on overload.  And so they came . . .

and they came . . .

and they CAME!

Bernard Goes Home

Meagan sent me this picture of Bernard showing off for the camera.  It's the last picture I'll have of him for a few weeks, because Bernard has now gone home to live with his father and stepmother.  They followed the required procedure by coming to the orphanage and living there for a week to bond with Bernard.  Meagan reports that Bernard seemed to readily bond with the stepmother, and that she was very kind and caring.  She's already told Meagan that we are welcome to come visit and will even meet us in Choma if we give her a call ahead of time.  I'm so happy for Bernard, but I'm going to miss this little guy!  

Update - April 25

We have spent the past week traveling to Missouri and Arkansas.  My family gathered in Mt. Vernon, Missouri, for the weekend, so we were able to visit with my brother and sisters and their families.  David preached at the Mt. Vernon congregation on Sunday morning.  I grew up with the good people there, and it is always a joy to be reunited with them and to see how the Lord is blessing their work.  

Monday through Wednesday we were in Searcy with David's family.  We also got to spend some time on the Harding campus and spoke to the Harding in Zambia group that will be coming in September.  We found some of last year's HIZ students as well and had fun getting caught up on Namwianga news with them.   Shawn and Donna Daggett will be joining Janice Bingham in leading the 2008 group, and we had a chance to meet and talk about upcoming plans. We also enjoyed seeing the Rackleys who led the 2007 group.   

This weekend we are off to HEB Foundation Camp for the Brentwood Oaks family retreat.  

Mother's Day Gift Suggestion

We would like to suggest a mother's day gift that can make a difference for mothers and children in Zambia.  A donation of $10 will purchase two Clean Delivery Kits (CDKs).  These will be given to expectant mothers during Zambia Medical Mission this summer and throughout the year at Namwianga Rural Health Center.  We will be targeting mothers who will not have access to a hospital or other health facility for delivery.

Each year about 60 million women in developing countries give birth with only the help of an untrained attendant or family member or with no help at all.  Many of these deliveries take place at home and often in a small hut in a remote village.  The infection rate is high, with some 1600 women per day dying from complications associated with pregnancy or childbirth, according to the World Health Organization.  Many of these infections can be avoided when Clean Delivery Kits (CDKs) are used.  Each kit includes the following supplies:  bar of soap, square yard of plastic sheeting, razor blade and string for the umbilical cord, cotton cloth to wrap baby, candle and matches, pain relievers, vitamins, disposable gloves, and sealed bag for packaging.  

We are making a special drive for Mother's Day by encouraging family and friends to donate to Zambia Mission in honor of their mother or special friend.  A personal note will be sent to inform each recipient of her gift.  If you are interested, please make checks to Zambia Mission and send them to the following address:  Zambia Mission, 658 E. N. 21st Street, Abilene, TX  79601.  Mother's Day is May 11, so please send in your requests as soon as possible.  

News from Namwianga

While we are in the United States, Namwianga is hosting the national women's meeting. The mission has been preparing for this event for many months, knowing that women from all over Zambia would be coming.  The turnout is far beyond expectations--the largest women's meeting ever.  Here are excerpts from a report sent by Kathi Merritt:

At last count there were 3,640.  They haven't finished registering.  The count will go well over 4,000.  All the dorms, both in the college and secondary school, are full.  All the classrooms, both in the  college and secondary, are full.  Verandas are full.  The auditorium is full. And tents have been put up.  All the benches and chairs have been moved to the quad.  All the sound equipment has been moved to the quad.  Tonight additional lights were put up there.  

The men are tired of cooking.  It takes about three hours to feed the group, and then the cooking starts immediately for the next meal.  

Church on Sunday will be in the quad. I asked Shadreck to get some pictures from the roof.  It should look like a flower garden with all the brightly coloured headscarves. 

 

And More Visitors

Steve and Joan Mann (center) have been involved in Zambia missions since the 80s. I consider them our kindred spirits as they share our passion for the work and have willingly opened their lives and their resources to us. They spend part of every year in Zambia, most recently coming in February and staying through early April. This year they hosted several other friends who came to work and minister with them. Lynn Anderson (see previous blog entry) is Steve’s cousin, and the Manns were instrumental in getting Lynn and Carolyn to come to Namwianga. Sam and Paulette Hawkins (shown at left) from Regina, Canada, made their first trip to Africa in March and jumped right in to all the work. They were willing to try any new experience and were great sports about it all. Bob and Kathy (right) were returning to Namwianga for a second time and proved once again that their many talents can make a difference. Bob is a fix-it person and was constantly busy with repair jobs. He also borrowed some heavy equipment and worked on the roads, endearing himself to us in a big way! Kathy made curtains, cooked, and did anything else that needed done, showcasing her servant heart.

Albert and MaryAnn French (not pictured), also from Cananda, spent six weeks in Zambia. They took over the Seven Fountains orphanage so that Rod and Sue Calder could enjoy a three-month furlough in the US.

Visitors

We were blessed to have many wonderful visitors at Namwianga in March. There were so many things happening that I didn’t get a chance to write about them at the time. Lynn and Carolyn Anderson came in early March. Lynn led a spiritual emphasis week on campus, preaching Sunday through Wednesday nights, giving chapel talks, and teaching Bible classes. The students responded enthusiastically to his lessons and his interactions with them. David and I benefited greatly from the time we spent with Lynn and Carolyn.

Family News

Here’s the most recent photo of our family, and those who know us will notice a new face. We are thrilled to announce that John is engaged to Leah Vickers and will be getting married June 14!

We have known Leah’s extended family for many years and have watched her grow up with our kids at Camp Blue Haven through the years. She is a wonderfully talented, beautiful, and sweet person, and we know she is a blessing from God for John and our family.

Pleasures of the Unreal World

Two weeks into our American stay, I can list at least ten things we enjoy about being back

1. Clean public restrooms with soap, warm water, and paper towels
2. Long, hot showers (but I still feel guilty. . .)
3. WATER FOUNTAINS--I had forgotten about these wonderful conveniences until we got to the Atlanta airport
4. No roadblocks manned by guards with AK-47s.
5. Padded church pews and individual communion cups
6. Dr. Pepper
7. No potholes (although we did find one in a parking lot recently)
8. Unlimited Internet access - guilt-free
9. No one is knocking at our door!
10. Electricity all the time

Water Pump and Playground

Water is scarce in southern Africa. Most communities struggle to provide an adequate supply of clean water for the residents. Mazabbuka, a town about 150 miles north of us, has found a creative solution. The pump for the community well is a merry-go-round. As children spin the metal wheel, they pump water to supply individual needs and to fill the nearby storage tank. We have driven past this well many times, and we always see a happy crowd of children playing as they pump the well. Mothers watch in the background while water flows into their buckets.

Update - April 11

David has quickly recovered from his bout with malaria.  We have been SO thankful for the counsel of fellow missionaries Sheri Sears and Brian and Sondra Davis.  They advised us to take malaria drugs with us just in case and told us of other missionaries who spent their furloughs trying to get diagnosed and treated in the US--a difficult situation since most American doctors know little about malaria, and the drugs are not readily available.   Our last stop in Zambia before the airport was at the pharmacy, and we are glad we did!

We flew into DFW on Wednesday and are now in Fort Worth visiting our friends the Branscums for a couple of days before going to Austin on Saturday.  

For the rest of our furlough (through mid-June), I will post occasional updates on our activities and blog the stories and photos of Zambia that I didn't have the time or bandwidth to cover while we were there.  

Missionary Retreat

This is the group of missionaries that gathered March 28 - 30 at Mapepe Bible College for a retreat.  Included are Fielden and Janet Allison from Tanzania; Diedre Hulvey, Meagan Hawley, Louisa Duke, and Sheri Sears from Namwianga; Brian and Sondra Davis with Bryson and Noah from Mumena Mission in Solwezi, Zambia;  Mark and Era Thiesen with Eric and Dana from Namikonga Mission in Malawi; and David and Lorie French with Natasha and Susan from Mapepe.  Also shown are the retreat presenters Eddie and Carol Hendricks from Richmond, Virginia, and Grady King from Irving, Texas.  We had a wonderful time together and are already looking forward to our next gathering.