tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81380907577871793412024-03-13T11:16:48.424-07:00Sierra LeoneMy blogspot for Sierra LeoneStefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00677174551630577177noreply@blogger.comBlogger38125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8138090757787179341.post-74223156084741280022010-08-11T20:33:00.000-07:002010-08-11T20:35:19.799-07:00It's that time again...<div id="id_4c636b61c82b0091d098d" class="text_exposed_root text_exposed">Bany Trading Company school supply drive blessing the men and women students at the Orphanage Vocational Training Centre in Sierra Leone, West Africa with excess benefiting the children at the Wellington Orphanage. Items needed are college supplies in nature such as spiral notebooks, pens/pencils, computer memory USB sticks, etc.<br /><br />Collection Deadline: Sunday, September 5, 2010. <br /><br />Location: Drop off supplies at Grace Community C<span class="text_exposed_hide"></span><span class="text_exposed_show">hurch at each campus in designated containers or contact Stefani or Amanda for additional dropoff locations or for pickup. <br /><span><br />Contact: Stefani Masten & Amanda Storer at info@banytradingcompany.co</span><wbr><span class="word_break"></span>m or via facebook. </span><span class="text_exposed_hide"><span class="text_exposed_link"><a onclick="'CSS.addClass($(">Look forward to seeing what God will do again this year!!! <br /><br />If you would like to donate financially, donations can be made to Bany Trading Company.<br /><br /><br /></a></span></span></div><input name="charset_test" value="€,´,€,´,水,Д,Є" type="hidden"><input name="fb_dtsg" value="n_Tp-" autocomplete="off" type="hidden"><input id="composer_id" name="composer_id" value="c4c636b61c08c5031b10e8" autocomplete="off" type="hidden"><input id="profile_id" name="profile_id" value="501925619" autocomplete="off" type="hidden"><input id="target_id" name="target_id" value="104944489563808" autocomplete="off" type="hidden"><input id="display_context" name="display_context" value="profile" autocomplete="off" type="hidden"><div class="UIComposer_InputArea_Base UIComposer_InputArea"><div class="UIComposer_InputShadow"><textarea id="c4c636b61c08c5031b10e8_input" class="UIComposer_TextArea DOMControl_placeholder" name="status" onfocus="'window.UIComposer" title="Write something..." placeholder="Write something...">Write something...</textarea></div></div>Stefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00677174551630577177noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8138090757787179341.post-23340824252091696092009-11-29T19:27:00.001-08:002009-11-29T19:32:05.533-08:00SALE...Did someone say SALE???? It's true. Grace Community Church is hosting a Women's Christmas event this weekend. It's an awesome time to shop with a PURPOSE! There will be a number of booths with great items from all over the world. <br /><br /><blockquote> <p class="normal">Here's the info....</p><p class="normal">Ladies, come celebrate a “Country Christmas” with Women of Grace! Enjoy live musical entertainment and come early to do some Christmas shopping. Proceeds support local and international missions.<br /> </p> </blockquote> <blockquote> <blockquote> <p class="normal" style="margin-top: 0pt; margin-bottom: 0pt;">Date: Saturday, December 5; Doors open at 9am, Brunch and concert 10-11:30am<br /> Location: Old Jacksonville Campus Auditorium<br /> Cost: Tickets $10 each; Free for girls 10 & under<br /> No Childcare Available<br /> </p> <p class="normal" style="margin-top: 0pt; margin-bottom: 0pt;">Tyler Campuses: purchase at the Downtown Ministry Center, multi-site church office, or Christmas event booth in the Commons.</p> <p class="normal" style="margin-top: 0pt; margin-bottom: 0pt;">Lindale & Athens: call or email to reserve tickets, pay at the door.<br /> Registration Deadline: December 3<br /> Contact: <a href="mailto:crystals@gcc.org">Crystal Smoker</a>; 903.595.5249</p><p class="normal" style="margin-top: 0pt; margin-bottom: 0pt;"><br /></p><p class="normal" style="margin-top: 0pt; margin-bottom: 0pt;">We'd love to see you there... </p> </blockquote> </blockquote> <p> </p>Stefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00677174551630577177noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8138090757787179341.post-7041031634105402282008-06-24T11:11:00.001-07:002008-11-13T10:07:17.093-08:00Chicken in a Bag<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/SGE7V2mefgI/AAAAAAAAAJE/cBXNlsSLSkw/s1600-h/102_2635.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/SGE7V2mefgI/AAAAAAAAAJE/cBXNlsSLSkw/s200/102_2635.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5215515090091933186" /></a><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/SGE7WQfshzI/AAAAAAAAAJM/AKKSpYLi7n8/s200/102_2637.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5215515097042814770" /><br /><br />Today was exciting! After training today I was called into the office by my friend Poppy. He started explaining that he wanted me to have Pepper Soup (which I had previously told him I liked). We mostly eat international food here at the team house, not African food. So I was not exactly sure what he was wanting. Initially, I thought he was going to invite me to dinner. Would be great, except that I would not have been able to due to transport for returning home. So...as we were talking he pointed over towards the wall. There, in a plastic bag, was the beginnings of my pepper soup....my very own chicken in a bag! <div><br /></div><div>It's very honoring that he would even try to find a way for me to have pepper soup and I know it was a sacrifice for him to buy the chicken. Freaked me out as I picked it up....I was waiting for it to peck my hand. However, it is very well-behaved. It traveled home with me by car and I'm still not sure yet what I will do with it. I was going to name it, but in the event that I do eat it, I don't think I could eat something I've named. </div><div><br /></div><div>Enjoy...</div><div><br /></div>Stefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00677174551630577177noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8138090757787179341.post-82083836463637962252008-06-22T11:28:00.000-07:002008-11-13T10:07:17.518-08:00Who Knew..<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/SGE-CJEHnlI/AAAAAAAAAJU/IcjOAdzo1_E/s1600-h/102_2604.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/SGE-CJEHnlI/AAAAAAAAAJU/IcjOAdzo1_E/s200/102_2604.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5215518049985601106" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/SGE-Cbtm8fI/AAAAAAAAAJc/r_ECR9NShx8/s1600-h/102_2608.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/SGE-Cbtm8fI/AAAAAAAAAJc/r_ECR9NShx8/s200/102_2608.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5215518054991458802" /></a><br />I have never heard of, nor done this new little beauty secret...UNTIL NOW. Who knew you could dye your eyelashes. I didn't anyway. Vez, my ginger (red-headed) friend, asked me for help several days ago. I thought it was going to be serious help for something therapy related. However, when she told me she wanted me to help her dye her eyelashes - I didn't know what to say. Putting peroxide that close to someone's eyes just doesn't seem very safe. She has done it several times back in England and apparently it's been fine. SO, even being a little nervous about the whole thing, I agreed.<div><br /></div><div>We got out all her supplies and prepared for the task at hand. Unfortunately, there was limited instructions so she was going from memory and telling me what and how to do it. To further any hesitations I may have had- the instructions say "For Professional Use Only". Last time I tried to dye anything personally, it turned out very bad. But, we pressed on. Mixed it all up, put on the eye things, and started painting the dye on. It only takes 5-7 minutes...crazy! By that time, Sandra had come in the room to "supervise". I was feeling pretty good about my job until Vez said her eye was stinging. Fortunately, she said that's normal. After the 7 minutes was up, took it all off, and her eyelashes were successfully brown. Just looked like she had mascara on - which was the point. SO, all was well.</div><div><br /></div><div>Then she asked if I wanted my done. It was easy enough so I said sure. She was much better at painting the dye on than I was! After my 7 minutes was up, took it all off and looked at my eyelashes - not too much change since they are already brown. I risked my eyesight for nothing! Just kidding. It was a fun process and some good bonding time!</div>Stefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00677174551630577177noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8138090757787179341.post-19608713322381174282008-06-20T01:17:00.000-07:002008-06-21T01:32:36.899-07:00Reacting in Emergencies...So, I've learned through the years that I am not the best in emergency situations. I tend to forget all reason and freeze. Unfortunate as it is, it's just how I react. <div><br /></div><div>Yesterday, I made the long journey across town to visit the orphanage. It was so great to see them again. I had really missed them during the week. All the missionaries that are visiting had left that morning for their trip up-country, except one girl named Crystal. We were in the middle of eating lunch when one of the boys burst in the door holding his leg. There was blood and the look on his face was intense pain. He uncovered the area and revealed a DEEP cut on his shin. Deep enough that you could see muscle and even down to the bone. A clean slice - the result of a fall on the roof. The story is still a bit unclear but nevertheless, it required immediate attention.</div><div><br /></div><div>Crystal and I both waited a bit for the cooks or people over the orphanage to react. Everyone sort of froze. They didn't. They were grossed out by the cut and everyone was just standing around. They did bring a dirty shirt to wrap around it. It was a bit confusing as everyone is trying to figure out who to contact - as the pastors and the resident nurse were gone on the trip. Thankfully, Crystal reacted first and ran up to her room grabbed 2 clean shirts and a first aid bag. We wrapped his leg, talked him through it, and the bleeding stopped. Somehow, still after 5-10 minutes, no one knew what to do. Their solution was to put salt in it and leave it (I think). We decided that we would take Samuel down the hill to a children's clinic because he was definitely going to need medical attention. A couple of the boys carried him on their backs, taking turns as we headed to the clinic. Once there, he was seen pretty quickly and they were able to stitch him up. He was admitted for several hours. I wasn't able to see him again yesterday but he did ask for food after it was all done - a good sign.</div><div><br /></div><div>Samuel handled it like a champ. Unbelievable how much pain he was feeling and how he was able to calm himself. He was so brave. </div><div><br /></div><div>I was so thankful for Crystal and her reaction...that we had each other to help deal with the situation. So thankful that Samuel is fine and he was able to see a doctor so quickly.</div>Stefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00677174551630577177noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8138090757787179341.post-49365898404018191372008-06-15T00:47:00.000-07:002008-11-13T10:07:18.031-08:00A New Adventure<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/SFy2Ut8IvPI/AAAAAAAAAIs/vdx76YxM91o/s1600-h/102_2536.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/SFy2Ut8IvPI/AAAAAAAAAIs/vdx76YxM91o/s200/102_2536.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5214242935633657074" /></a><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/SFy2Uw7EhhI/AAAAAAAAAI0/qqPANCf3AJk/s200/102_2567.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5214242936434492946" /><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/SFy2VQ2H0QI/AAAAAAAAAI8/mYDTnDnsPg8/s200/102_2572.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5214242945003671810" /><br /><br /><br />One thing that I had always wanted to do last time I was in Sierra Leone was to attend a football game at the stadium in town. I did not know how safe it was for expats to go and the opportunity never really presented itself. So, it was just something that I wished I could do but didn't think would ever happen.<div><br /></div><div>My first day back at Mercy Ships I ran in to Vez, one of my good friends here. She told me that they had gotten ticket to go to the game the next day and I was invited...so fun! There was a group of about 10 of us that were going to see Sierra Leone take on South Africa in a World Cup qualifying game. </div><div><br /></div><div>We met up with the rest of the crowd on Saturday and set out on foot to the stadium. Several of the girls were wearing green (which is representative of both teams). However, since the majority of the group was white - we kept getting comments about South Africa. We tried to explain along the way, that we were cheering for Salone.</div><div><br /></div><div>As we neared the stadium, the crowds were bigger and bigger. Got in the stadium and got to our seats and just took it all in. Gradually the stadium became more and more full. The game was pretty exciting! It was so fun to be in the crowd with all the fans. They were all very into the game. Looking around - you could see all ages watching intently, some with radios right up against their ear as they watched and listened. The best part of the whole game was when SL scored their goal. The crown lept to their feet - everyone cheering, yelling, singing, jumping with arms in the air. It was awesome! </div><div> </div><div>Sierra Leone won the game 1-0. After the final whistle blew, many of the fans rushed onto the field to carry the players on their shoulders as they made their victory lap. It was such a great experience...one I'm very thankful for!</div><div><br /></div><div>Sierra Leone won the game 1-0 </div>Stefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00677174551630577177noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8138090757787179341.post-14606766801748610382008-06-11T13:23:00.000-07:002008-11-13T10:07:18.591-08:00New Limbs<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/SFxJHVs2VtI/AAAAAAAAAIU/xgMZBieMvX0/s1600-h/102_2226.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/SFxJHVs2VtI/AAAAAAAAAIU/xgMZBieMvX0/s200/102_2226.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5214122859021358802" /></a><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/SFxJH71R86I/AAAAAAAAAIc/zPHldKZqvdg/s200/102_2237.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5214122869257270178" /><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/SFxJIC30FuI/AAAAAAAAAIk/F8FSJvXXclM/s200/102_2243.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5214122871146944226" /><br /><br />God is so amazing! In June of last year - there was a group of 28 Americans that came to Sierra Leone with various gifts, passions, and skills. Several of the projects included working with people who suffered from amputations during the war. The organization was attempting to set up a partnership with a local organization to assist in making/providing prosthetic limbs for these amputees. The partnership was not really coming together and so there was limited opportunities for these patients to get new limbs. HOWEVER....God was at work!<br /><br />The team was traveling to a town up-country (about 4 hours from Freetown) to visit a village where 4HIM had built a school. We left about 4 am and all was going smoothly. About an hour into the journey - our poda poda broke down - oil pouring out from underneath. All the missionaries piled into 2 cars and continued on. We arrived in Makeni and waited for another car for an hour or two. While we were there...a car pulled in the gate...the logo read something like Seattle's Prosthetics and Orthotics. Discussions began between the people from the car and the 4HIM team. Thus, a partnership began.<br /><br />Between June and October - 40 limbs were provided for these patients. There have been many more since that time. The cost to make these limbs is between $50-100. Amazing that such a small amount can truly change a life.<br /><br />This year, we were able to go out with a team to see several amputees fitted with their new limbs. Some were receiving limbs that have never had one and others were receiving replacements. It was such an incredible experience. One man in particular, had never had a prosthetic arm. The workers fitted his new arm and he immediately reached to pick up a box. The smile that came across his face was absolutely incredible. He quickly jumped up and began practicing how to use it. He went to the car door and attempted to open/shut the door numerous times. He started writing with a marker and even pinched the man who was working with him. How wonderful to witness such a monumental time in his life. Here's several pictures of the event.<br /><br />I'm blown way by the awesomeness of God. His perfect timing and his sovereignty. How he orchestrates everything perfectly. If our car had not broken down, we would not been a the hotel to meet this group, the partnership would not have begun that day, and all that's come from it...God is AWESOME!Stefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00677174551630577177noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8138090757787179341.post-76605745873921123052008-06-10T16:44:00.000-07:002008-11-13T10:07:19.162-08:00Fun and Games<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/SFxD1wF6h4I/AAAAAAAAAH8/BP5d8AFWwxM/s1600-h/102_2258.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/SFxD1wF6h4I/AAAAAAAAAH8/BP5d8AFWwxM/s200/102_2258.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5214117059310028674" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/SFxD2Y4VtRI/AAAAAAAAAIE/fp3JsHWJ2RI/s1600-h/102_2277.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/SFxD2Y4VtRI/AAAAAAAAAIE/fp3JsHWJ2RI/s200/102_2277.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5214117070258943250" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/SFxD2o6D_PI/AAAAAAAAAIM/vq09BaplZFo/s1600-h/102_2288.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/SFxD2o6D_PI/AAAAAAAAAIM/vq09BaplZFo/s200/102_2288.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5214117074561137906" /></a><br />Today was a blast! It was pretty much our last day with the kids so we the plan was to mostly hang out with them, play games, and just spend time with them. We started with Simon Says which was pretty funny. Then a new version of Red Rover....also quite fun. I was the first one to let someone through - who knew they would jump through my legs. After that, they taught us a new version of Duck Duck Goose. <div><br /></div><div>In their version, the person holds a flip flop and goes around the circle. The group is singing a song about a fire on a mountain, run! run! run! When they choose their target, they place the flip flop behind someone (the goose) and run to take their spot. They funny thing is that half the time, the chosen person doesn't know the shoe is behind them so the person continues running. Definitely more fun if you're playing it! It was a delightful morning.</div>Stefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00677174551630577177noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8138090757787179341.post-12911441224383394952008-06-08T09:23:00.000-07:002008-11-13T10:07:19.378-08:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/SFwQuA171aI/AAAAAAAAAGk/idh-Ua5jIPk/s1600-h/102_2165.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/SFwQuA171aI/AAAAAAAAAGk/idh-Ua5jIPk/s200/102_2165.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5214060851274438050" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/SFwQuba3uDI/AAAAAAAAAGs/G0a4eE5O5GM/s1600-h/102_2160.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/SFwQuba3uDI/AAAAAAAAAGs/G0a4eE5O5GM/s200/102_2160.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5214060858408679474" /></a><br />Excitement spread all over the orphanage. Everyone anticipating the yearly trip to the beach. All the missionaries climbed into the 4HIM cars, each carrying a child on their lap. The kids piled into 2 poda poda's and a truck for the long journey. There were probably 30 kids in each poda poda. <div><br /></div><div>We arrived and everyone jumped out, heading towards the beach. As I walked down to the beach, I noticed several of the kids rubbing sand all over their bodies. Others were running full speed for the beach. Still others stayed on the beach making sand towns, swimming holes, and just enjoying the sand. The water was a bit rough and the kids would cling to us as the water came in and went out. It was such a wonderful scene.</div><div><br /></div><div>We met a large group of Mongolian peacekeepers who were sharing the beach space. I think they were wondering who we were, who the kids were, and what we were doing there. It was really great - they ended up playing a football game against our older boys. All the kids were lined up against the field watching and cheering. As the last goal was scored, the crowd went wild and our boys won! The peacekeepers were very generous by giving the orphanage kiddos their volleyball. </div><div><br /></div><div>It was an incredible day for the kids and for us. That night all were exhausted and everyone went to bed early. Praise the Lord for the opportunity to take them and to be with them on such a special day.</div><div><br /></div>Stefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00677174551630577177noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8138090757787179341.post-57275838802359561902008-06-06T16:07:00.000-07:002008-06-20T15:59:19.256-07:00Braving FreetownSo...I decided to take Amanda and Jeff across town - African style - hop on a puda puda and go. The journey began very smoothly. Did not have to wait for a puda puda at our first stop. The weather was breezy. Traffic was not too bad. Drove through the market which has every food item you can imagine, resulting in every smell you can imagine. We climbed out of the puda puda and continued on foot to the next location. Got on another puda puda and headed towards Aberdeen. It was a fairly pleasant ride, however the calmness did not last long. As we continued on our journey, the wind picked up, people started taking cover and the rain came quickly. Now, I'm not just talking a little sprinkling. By the time we reached our destination - rain was blowing everywhere and it was pouring. There was truly NO ESCAPE. Unfortunately, the rain was quite unexpected on our part so we had NO umbrella or any means of protection. The driver kindly offered to take us directly to the clinic for a "small" fee, but at that point it was totally worth it. We jumped out and ran for the compound. We made it to a covered spot for a moment of reprieve. We still had to make it to the gate. We pressed on. I knocked on the gate...no answer. Knocked again...still no answer. Finally, on the third knock they opened the gate. We ran like wild monkeys to get in the clinic. We were dripping wet and a bit cold. It was AWESOME!!!<div><br /></div><div>Got to see my friends from Mercy Ships, tour the clinic, and see some of my other favorite sites. Despite the rain, we still had to travel back across town. Thankfully, the heaven's closed and we were able to complete the rest of our day without rain. It was an experience I will not soon forget....AND...it makes a good story! </div>Stefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00677174551630577177noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8138090757787179341.post-68554527713300187302007-12-14T01:22:00.000-08:002008-11-13T10:07:19.562-08:00Malaria<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/R2JUMebO77I/AAAAAAAAAF8/4L6zeYiAlPs/s1600-h/malariatest.bmp"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5143766297712979890" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/R2JUMebO77I/AAAAAAAAAF8/4L6zeYiAlPs/s200/malariatest.bmp" border="0" /></a> I got home from the orphanage feeling hot and tired. I headed straight to bed to rest for awhile. While I was sleeping (or attempting to sleep), I started feeling more and more achy, eyes burning, very hot, and just overall - not great. Came downstairs and told my fellow housemates that I thought I had a fever. Took out the themometer and checked - 38.8 C. A bit high. Then Sandra (who's a doctor) asked me if I'd been taking my Doxy (anti-malaria meds). Well...I said....I hadn't. It had been an issue before, last time I was sick, at which time I promised I would start taking it. Unfortunately, that was a promise I broke. I can't actually remember the last time I took my Doxy. Anyway, thankfully she had a test at home. We went upstairs, she poked my finger, got the blood and we let the test sit. Waited a few minutes and it came back invalid. Repeated the process, except this time....the malaria line appeared. NOOOOOOOOOOO!!!! I did indeed have malaria. Again, thankfully, Sandra had the medication at home so I took it immediately and slept a lot. <br /><br />After 3 days of feeling less than great, I have fully recovered (almost fully). It was not nearly as bad as it could have been and I'm so thankful we caught it quickly. My word of advice to all who are reading...TAKE THE DOXY!!! It's just stupid not to. Lesson learned. I will be taking it for the next 4 weeks to prevent new infection or a relapse. Again, TAKE THE DOXY!!!Stefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00677174551630577177noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8138090757787179341.post-91527293589961918022007-12-08T10:05:00.000-08:002008-11-13T10:07:19.854-08:00One last visit...<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/R2JvGubO7-I/AAAAAAAAAGU/tG75jiF5ra8/s1600-h/meandkids2.bmp"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5143795885742682082" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/R2JvGubO7-I/AAAAAAAAAGU/tG75jiF5ra8/s200/meandkids2.bmp" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Ah...the orphange. How I'm gong to miss those kids!!! The last visit was really a special day. A group of 4 of us went to see the kids and deliver a bunch of Christmas goodies. The people who supported me to come here, gave very generously, so I had a bit of money left over. I sent my parents a list of all sorts of things for the kids - crayons, colored pencils, paper, scissors, glue, hair clippies, combs, new shirts, books, games, soccer balls, toys, and other such things. This was delivery day! I was so excited...I just knew the kids would love it all.<br /><br /><div>We arrived and they had planned a special thing for me. They sang a couple songs, danced, and then sang Christmas carols. It was really wonderful. They also sang this really sad song for me about my going away. They were so precious as many of them started crying. I could barely hold it together. They have been such a blessing to me over the past 6 months, I can't even begin to express with words what they mean to me.<br /></div><div>After the songs, they had a lively game of football (soccer). The girls almost managed to beat the boys. It was really fun to just be there and spend time with them. They had made us lunch - kassava leaves and rice (yum!). A truly lovely day. </div><br /><br /><div></div></div>Stefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00677174551630577177noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8138090757787179341.post-6268123500162268822007-12-01T12:30:00.000-08:002008-11-13T10:07:20.015-08:00<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/R1HEotgQhAI/AAAAAAAAAF0/Z7aFqvkBuSQ/s1600-R/Gang.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5139104853495153666" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/R1HEotgQhAI/AAAAAAAAAF0/1Yh4MXk_ZDQ/s200/Gang.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Meet the New Steps rehab team (minus one John Angel). This is the team I've been working with for the past 6 months. They have become good friends. God is using them in great ways to reach the people with disabilities here in SL. They have been such a blessing to me and I will miss them greatly. There is Richard on the stool, Abu next to him, Alfred, and Morelai. Abdulai in front. Me, Geraldine, and Rosemarie in the back. I am really going to miss them.</div>Stefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00677174551630577177noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8138090757787179341.post-43237761888870574122007-12-01T12:26:00.000-08:002008-11-13T10:07:20.182-08:00To the Beach...<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/R1HDkdgQg_I/AAAAAAAAAFs/TxerWH2KzxU/s1600-R/beachtime.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5139103680969081842" style="CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/R1HDkdgQg_I/AAAAAAAAAFs/J8wYe1t8zmU/s200/beachtime.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>This is one of our favorite spots. Usually, on the way home from work on Friday's, we all stop here for some groundnuts and drinks. It's such a peaceful place and a nice way to unwind before heading home. While we sit, there are numerous traders coming along to sell things like necklaces, carvings, blankets, material, etc. So, you can also shop while you sit...how great is that. I know...pretty rough you're thinking. It is a blessing to live so close to the beach!! </div><div></div>Stefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00677174551630577177noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8138090757787179341.post-57166479378956373832007-11-29T13:40:00.000-08:002007-12-01T12:09:55.310-08:00On the spot...So...I went to the Lord's Mission Church this past weekend because they were having a Youth Celebration. My friend MS invited me because he was a canidate for Youth of the Year. I don't understand how it all works, but I wanted to support him and the other kids so I decided to go.<br /><br />It started at 1:30 pm. I had to leave my house at 11:30 to make sure I had enough time to get transport and maneuver through town. I headed up the hill to the first stop to catch a pudapuda to town. I arrived at the top and caught one immediately, which was a blessing. It wasn't going to exactly where I was wanting, but I've made this transfer before and am fairly familiar with the route (mind you, I did say fairly familiar!). <br /><br />Made the first drop without too much problem. Started walking towards the next stop but decided to take a different cut-through. Headed down another street and throught it was a direct shot...unfortunately...it wasn't. After a few twists and turns and asking for directions, I was on my way. By this time, it had started raining so I was getting soaked and trying to press on. Usually better to keep moving, rather than stop. SO...thankfully...there was another pudapuda that came by fairly quickly so I hopped on. Because of the rain, I was already soggy and dripping with water. There were 18 others (at least) on the pudapuda and all the windows closed. I was sizzling and therefore, beads of sweat were also appearing everywhere on my arms, face, etc. Unfortunately, the little girl sitting next to me looked a little nervous because I was white...and then the added drippings...she was terrified I think. She accidentally touched me arm at one point...the look on her face was priceless. Disgust and horror all at the same time. Thankfully, she didn't cry!<br /><br />Made it to the orphanage by 12:40. To my surprise...the celebration had already started so I was hurried in and ushered to the front row next to my friend Timothy. MS, my friend, was announcing chairpeople to sort of MC the event. To my surprise again...he shouted my name which meant I sat on the stage and had to help announce the different things going on. Now, for those of you who know me, being in front of a crowd is not my favorite thing...let alone being the only white person in an African church. I was just laughing thinking how much of a sense of humor God has.<br /><br />SO...when people take the microphone, they shout something like "Praise the Lord" and the congregation all respond, "Hallelujah". I get up for my first announcement and say, "Praise the Lord," and hear only one hallelujah. I knew then it was going to be a little rough :). Got more nervous after that first time. <br /><br />The celebration continued past 1:30, past 2:30, past 3:30 and by that time I was getting a little anxious. I still had to get transport home and be there before dark. The day before it had taken 2 hours to make it home. I was beginning to fidgit in my chair and figure out some way that I could slip out without offending everyone. Unfortunately, we were only about half way through the program after 3 hours...didn't think I could make it to the end. God worked it out because after talking to the other chairperson, I was freed to go. I snuck out and was on my way. Unfortunately, I still don't know if MS won or not.<br /><br />What a day! It was quite an adventure as every trip across town is. It was such a blessing to be there and supporting MS and the rest of the kids who were singing.Stefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00677174551630577177noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8138090757787179341.post-53763707210730082692007-11-23T08:50:00.000-08:002008-11-13T10:07:20.227-08:00Thanksgiving Fun...<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/R08vfXMHqGI/AAAAAAAAAFM/5PrXDPiuU6w/s1600-h/Abdul.jpg"></a><br /><div>One might ask, What does Thanksgiving look like in Africa? Well...pretty similar to home. I'm not one much for working in the kitchen on Thanksgiving. I prefer to wash up afterwards. Morgen and I decided to stay home this Thanksgiving to help Jitske with all the preparations. It was such a fun day. Started with stuffing the turkeys (yes, we found turkey's here). Then moved on to preparing the green bean casserole and a salad. There were 28 people coming so lots of food was being prepared. Helen and Jitske had already made the pumpkin pies and apple cake. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>After all the food was ready for the oven, we headed outside to decorate. Made the center pieces, made the cutlery look pretty, etc. I was mostly just an assistant but it was a great day. Had some down time in the afternoon. Of course, the last hour or so was a bit hectic. There were 28 people coming, so planning the timing was a little tricky. It all came together! We had most of the traditional stuff - turkey, stuffing, green bean casserole, rolls, cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, pumkin pie, etc. DELICIOUS!!! I definitely missed my family but this was a great way to spend the day. The American's were outnumbered which was definitely a first :).</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>We finished dinner and dessert with a great time of worship and a short teaching/discussion. What a great Thanksgiving. If I had to be away from home, there was not other place I'd rather be. Praise the Lord.</div><div> </div><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/R08vfXMHqGI/AAAAAAAAAFM/5PrXDPiuU6w/s1600-h/Abdul.jpg"></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/R08vfXMHqGI/AAAAAAAAAFM/5PrXDPiuU6w/s1600-h/Abdul.jpg"></a> </div>Stefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00677174551630577177noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8138090757787179341.post-79035808404068740262007-11-22T13:14:00.000-08:002007-11-29T13:22:08.856-08:00Thanksgiving...When I sit down to think about all the things I'm thankful for this year, I'm blown away by how much God has blessed me. I'm in Africa - a dream of over 4 years - serving God and the people here. I've met so many amazing people and have experienced so many incredible things. I'm thankful that I'm here, for the people He's brought into my path, the patient's I've seen, the kids at the orphanage, the church He's provided, the community of friends, His provision through the good and bad moments, the communication He's allowed with those back home, and SO many other things. That's just what's here...there's so much to be thankful for at home too! My family, friends, church, car, 24 hours of power, air conditioning, mexican food, Dr. Pepper, ease of getting places, etc. <br /><br />We have so much to be thankful for...SO much. God is so incredible. His love is so extravagant. Truly, He has given us eternal life. He sent His son to die for our sins, so we could have relationship with God. He provided a way. Think about that for just a moment. He calls us His friend. He pursues us and loves us. He's Unconditional, He's Able, He NEVER changes, He is better than anything we could ever imagine. Praise God. Thank God.Stefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00677174551630577177noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8138090757787179341.post-61506338982841546662007-11-21T21:00:00.000-08:002008-11-13T10:07:20.606-08:00Staff Retreat<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/R1HCedgQg-I/AAAAAAAAAFk/NsLKv4IUMos/s1600-R/girlsretreat.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5139102478378238946" style="CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/R1HCedgQg-I/AAAAAAAAAFk/N7JWwH-g5GQ/s200/girlsretreat.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/R1HCTdgQg9I/AAAAAAAAAFc/0GpLNVrZNvU/s1600-R/girls2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5139102289399677906" style="WIDTH: 185px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 114px" height="98" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/R1HCTdgQg9I/AAAAAAAAAFc/MkaM8mW32m4/s200/girls2.jpg" width="177" border="0" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/R1HA7tgQg8I/AAAAAAAAAFU/8eVyeB1AZLw/s1600-R/education.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5139100781866156994" style="CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/R1HA7tgQg8I/AAAAAAAAAFU/tq3sOnD48-A/s200/education.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div> </div><div>All the Mercy Ships Sierra Leone staff had a retreat on November 21st. It was an excellent day filled with worship, discussions, and teaching. God really spoke to everyone as we were taught on endurance and drifting. It was so fun to see everyone dressed up. It was a great day for all the staff to come together and be apart of Mercy Ships as a whole. <br /></div><div><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div>Stefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00677174551630577177noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8138090757787179341.post-81604406836122238352007-10-27T07:27:00.001-07:002008-11-13T10:07:21.184-08:00Amazing hair ordeals...This week was quite a day at the orphanage. One would think in the first picture that they were fixing my hair...unfortunately...they were plucking my grey hairs. Somehow over the past 4 months I have had a plethora of new ones showing themselves. The kids lovingly plucked them for me. <br /><br />Then, Kati and Mabinty wanted to plant (braid) my hair. Really she just twisted two pieces together through the front. It was fun!! Who needs hair color or a beauty shop :)<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/RyNK8Mh53kI/AAAAAAAAAE8/zHDZ-eIo-8s/s1600-h/greyhair.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5126023198893792834" style="CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/RyNK8Mh53kI/AAAAAAAAAE8/zHDZ-eIo-8s/s200/greyhair.jpg" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/RyNLIch53lI/AAAAAAAAAFE/mzgX3XgVh4s/s1600-h/planting.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5126023409347190354" style="CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/RyNLIch53lI/AAAAAAAAAFE/mzgX3XgVh4s/s200/planting.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div></div>Stefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00677174551630577177noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8138090757787179341.post-83780238370243150332007-10-27T07:06:00.000-07:002008-11-13T10:07:21.778-08:00Sesay Family<div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/RyNHIsh53iI/AAAAAAAAAEs/KhiIoYq6c14/s1600-h/school.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5126019015595646498" style="CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/RyNHIsh53iI/AAAAAAAAAEs/KhiIoYq6c14/s200/school.jpg" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/RyNG8sh53hI/AAAAAAAAAEk/lUFVvTTglEU/s1600-h/butterscotch.jpg"></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/RyNGwsh53gI/AAAAAAAAAEc/RszhaNfXu4s/s1600-h/mekids.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5126018603278786050" style="CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/RyNGwsh53gI/AAAAAAAAAEc/RszhaNfXu4s/s200/mekids.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><br /><div></div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/RyNJ3Mh53jI/AAAAAAAAAE0/H5c6wNF3Q2M/s1600-h/morebutter.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5126022013482819122" style="CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/RyNJ3Mh53jI/AAAAAAAAAE0/H5c6wNF3Q2M/s200/morebutter.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>I met the most amazing family! Fell in love with them immediately! James, the dad is a teacher at one of the local schools. Sandra, the mom, stays home and does A LOT! She had food sent for us daily, gave cucumber, and was so generous! Rebekah, the one stirring was a precious girl...so sweet and kind. She made butterscotch nightly and we could buy it very cheaply. It was delicious!!! James, Anthony, and Isatu were around to play with every night. Anthony fell asleep in my lap a couple of times...so precious. They were one of the highlights of my trip!!! Such a blessing!!! </div><br /><div><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/RyNGW8h53fI/AAAAAAAAAEU/rmO2QNjy5-A/s1600-h/mekids.jpg"></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div>Stefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00677174551630577177noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8138090757787179341.post-82886135851436784332007-10-27T02:18:00.000-07:002008-11-13T10:07:22.816-08:00Patients, Patients and More Patients...<div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/RyM9uMh53cI/AAAAAAAAAD8/JQBJWosrqDU/s1600-h/passenger.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5126008664724463042" style="CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/RyM9uMh53cI/AAAAAAAAAD8/JQBJWosrqDU/s200/passenger.jpg" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/RyMDbch53aI/AAAAAAAAADs/bs3J8kS_hLE/s1600-h/mepatients.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5125944570927504802" style="CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/RyMDbch53aI/AAAAAAAAADs/bs3J8kS_hLE/s200/mepatients.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/RyMEHsh53bI/AAAAAAAAAD0/wpTo_Ajeb78/s1600-h/patients.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5125945331136716210" style="WIDTH: 198px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" height="150" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/RyMEHsh53bI/AAAAAAAAAD0/wpTo_Ajeb78/s200/patients.jpg" width="199" border="0" /></a> <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5126013303289142754" style="CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/RyNB8Mh53eI/AAAAAAAAAEM/VTjAkLmq_l8/s200/splints.jpg" border="0" /><br /></div><br /><div>These are just a few of the kiddos we saw. There were 90 patients total. We gave out several Personal Energy Transmitters (PETs), the cars seen above. Were able to see quite a variety of cases including polio, cerebral palsy, stroke, and many other orthopedic issues. It was really great to see and interact with the kids. We also made several splints to assist the patients. All in all, it was a fantastic trip. Hopefully I will get to go back before I leave to visit some of the schools to look at environmental modifications. </div><div><br /></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/RyMC88h53ZI/AAAAAAAAADk/MzDRVDSTpck/s1600-h/patients.jpg"></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/RyMCsch53YI/AAAAAAAAADc/Dm9j4Yu0Q4w/s1600-h/mepatients.jpg"></a><br /><br /><div><div></div></div></div></div>Stefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00677174551630577177noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8138090757787179341.post-8039701638544181662007-10-27T01:54:00.000-07:002008-11-13T10:07:23.142-08:00Lunsar<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/RyMAi8h53XI/AAAAAAAAADU/iCiqikUTAs0/s1600-h/bushmeat.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5125941401241640306" style="WIDTH: 184px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 202px" height="252" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/RyMAi8h53XI/AAAAAAAAADU/iCiqikUTAs0/s320/bushmeat.jpg" width="205" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/RyL_7ch53WI/AAAAAAAAADM/I6hZp42CnMA/s1600-h/dinner.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5125940722636807522" style="WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 172px" height="172" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/RyL_7ch53WI/AAAAAAAAADM/I6hZp42CnMA/s320/dinner.jpg" width="271" border="0" /></a><br /><br />What a great week in Lunsar. We were plenty busy with patients but were able to enjoy the evenings relaxing. Geraldine and I stayed with a family in their extra bedroom. It as an adventure. Some large spiders, mosquitos, and either a small mouse or large cockroach (not sure which one)! We ate lots of African food off the same platter...it was a real family affair. We even bought a deer leg on the way there. Poppy and Abu made pepper soup and stew...it was delicious!!!<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/RyL_Wch53VI/AAAAAAAAADE/NkRoFszsj2o/s1600-h/dinner.jpg"></a></div>Stefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00677174551630577177noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8138090757787179341.post-13139347345498512912007-10-06T01:26:00.000-07:002008-11-13T10:07:23.270-08:00Back to Life<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/RwdG5PqRH7I/AAAAAAAAAC8/UAAPDcNeB9U/s1600-h/ola5.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5118137450800160690" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" height="176" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/RwdG5PqRH7I/AAAAAAAAAC8/UAAPDcNeB9U/s320/ola5.jpg" width="239" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Back to the grind in Sierra Leone after an incredible holiday! Was at the orphanage on Friday and got to see Ola. He's doing a lot better and getting stronger by the day. He's sitting better and is able to hold his head up better, for longer periods of time, etc. He's definitely progressing. Praise the Lord! All the other kids have returned to school so it was fun to see them in the uniforms and with their peers. What an awesome bunch of kids they are. So refreshing to be with them.</div>Stefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00677174551630577177noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8138090757787179341.post-46771164589625990412007-10-06T01:20:00.000-07:002008-11-13T10:07:23.432-08:00Giant Prawns<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/RwdGP_qRH6I/AAAAAAAAAC0/vAMHI_gnmSM/s1600-h/prawns.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5118136742130556834" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/RwdGP_qRH6I/AAAAAAAAAC0/vAMHI_gnmSM/s320/prawns.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Have you ever seen a prawn this big????? I thought they were small lobsters at first. It was HUGE and very delicious!!! The lobsters were also gigantic. I love fresh seafood. </div>Stefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00677174551630577177noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8138090757787179341.post-82452254228227575972007-10-06T01:15:00.001-07:002008-11-13T10:07:23.438-08:00<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_J4GEv3D_fT8/RwdEefqRH3I/AAAAAAAAACc/WwSlc3q4trI/s1600-h/ola5.jpg"></a>Stefhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00677174551630577177noreply@blogger.com0