Bits of Bangui

A fond farwell...

2010-04-03T07:08:00.000-07:00

Since our last blog announcing our arrival back to the USA due to health issues, we have come to the decision of retiring from our overseas mission work in Bangui, CAR through seeking Gods will through prayer and medical advice. We have also come to the decision of retiring from overseas missions all together, returning back to working in the professions that we had worked before the Lord called us to overseas missions. This is the end of this chapter in our lives, and now we look toward the future, looking to the Lord's leading....what will the next chapter in our journey be?! We're not certain, but this we know, that he has plans for us, always greater than we can imagine, trusting in Him completely!

A dear friend of ours expressed these words so perfectly to us: "it surely seems disconcerting on the earthly side, but God, who loves you so much, knows where he is taking you and why. What matters most to Him is not what you accomplish or don't manage to do, but what you become, what kind of person you are growing into. After all, our work, even Christian activities, are earth-bound and limited to this world, to time and space. But the kind of character which this life makes of us, that's what matters! Because it's what we take along when we enter the Kingdom".

We are saddened to say our 'good-byes' to Bangui, and to all those who had tremendously blessed our lives there. We have taken with us a part of Africa and tucked it into our hearts, where no one will ever be able to take away these; amazing experiences, memories, and all those who had touched our lives so profoundly there.

Our fond farewell from Bangui, CAR and 'Bits of Bangui'....and who knows, maybe we will blog about the next amazing chapter in our lives in another ministry that God has planned for us!

We would like to take this time to express to you, our sincere thanks for following along, and reading our blog 'Bits of Bangui' over this past year. And, we do hope you enjoyed seeing Bangui, CAR through our eyes and experiences.

With our love, and grateful hearts ~ Trace and Karen

Our travels home....

2010-03-10T06:31:00.000-08:00

Late Thursday night on March 4, we boarded Air France airlines to fly back home to the USA on Friday, March 5 in Cleveland, Ohio. Our travels and all our connections (Bangui to Paris, Paris to London, London to Chicago, Chicago to Cleveland) went really well, and we are so very grateful that our luggage arrived at the end of our destination with us! We are grateful for your prayers during this time of our travels ~ please know how much we feel them.

We have come home, yet again for a time of medical leave....this is something we will continue to keep you informed of, as we know more.

Thank you again for reading our blog ~ enjoy!

Time with friends....

2010-03-10T06:23:00.000-08:00

Time with friends...

On Wednesday (March 3), our dear friend Heidi invited us over to her home to enjoy time together during a most delicious meal of Korean beef that her house-help Jonathan made. This is my most favorite meal at Heidi's for a lunch meal! It is served with white rice, stir fry of; onions, green peppers, green beans and carrots, and of course the deliciously tender and very well seasoned beef! Our most grateful thanks to Heidi ~ for my dear friend, for her gracious love and hospitality shown to us.

A rose is a rose....

2010-03-10T06:16:00.000-08:00

~ A rose is a rose ~

This is a flower that I've enjoyed seeing bloom again and again while we have been in Bangui, it's called a Porcelain Rose. To view this flower a little better ~ double left 'click' your mouse, and it will enlarge the image. The flower petals appear waxy looking, almost glass like.

What's that?!!

2010-03-10T05:55:00.000-08:00

part of a palm tree ~ where the palm tree seed grow

palm tree seeds that are used to make palm tree oil

As I walked through the center a couple of weeks ago where we live, one of our guards was very carefully, yet efficiently removing these palm tree seeds out from within this huge prickly thing that grows under the leafs of the palm tree (1st picture above). Curious, I proceeded to ask him questions as to why he uses this knife to extract the seeds from this huge thing, he said if you only used your hand to extract these seeds, it would continue to cut you over and over, each time you tried to get one of these seeds extracted. I also asked what the process was like and how much this large bowl of already extracted palm tree seeds would make (2nd picture). I would approximate this bowl of seeds to be about 2 foot in diameter. He said the it would produce about 1 liter of palm oil for the use of cooking! The process he described to me was very lengthy and so time consuming....this is when, I'm so very grateful that I can go to a local little grocery store in Bangui to purchase a cooking oil right off the store shelve, already prepared and reading to use, rather than going through this very time consuming and tumultuous process just for cooking oil ~ however, this is how our Central African friends live.

Our local laundry mat

2010-03-10T05:44:00.000-08:00

~ Our local laundry mat ~
(in our own shower)

And, our laundry machine....our own elbow grease! During the Bangui city 'power-cut', we needed to roll up our sleeves and put our own elbow grease into washing our clothes ~ here, you see Trace hand washing his work clothes.

To wash, we simply take a little laundry soap, mix it while the water was flowing out of the shower hose into a large plastic tub, dunk your clothes in and start to squishy, squishy, like your washer machine. Next, of course the rinse cycle....squishy, squishy with clean water, repeat if necessary.....ring out well....hang clothes on laundry line! Voila, your wash is done.

Karen's dream job....

2010-03-02T21:22:00.000-08:00

Coffee anyone?!

This would be my dream job!....This little traveling coffee stand can be seen going up and down the street of Boganda in Bangui! This gentleman sells the well known instant coffee of Nescafé ~ a coffee that I have grown very fond of since we arrived in Africa (mostly, in making 'iced coffee).

2010-02-25T05:28:00.000-08:00

We are very happy to have our regular electricity power back 'on' (which is approximately 10 hours each day of city power) after having a Bangui, city wide 'power-cut' in order for them to make repairs.

We thank you for your patience ~ and appreciate your reading our blog!

Pardon our silence...

2010-01-31T01:31:00.000-08:00

As of Wednesday, February 3rd until Thursday, February 18th the entire city of Bangui, CAR will be without electricity. This may potentially leave us without Internet access. So, pardon our silence within 'Bits of Bangui' until then (maybe even a longer time than mentioned).

Sunday stroll....

2010-01-17T21:11:00.000-08:00

I think he's a guard dog? Not sure though!

How adorable!

Mud bricks that were setting along the ride-side
(these are often used for the Central African's construction of their homes)

What a difference a year makes....

2010-01-01T04:53:00.000-08:00

2009 New Years Day
in
Neuchâtel, Switzerland
(picture from our front apartment door)

2010 New Years Day
in
Bangui, Central African Republic
(picture from our back door of our house)

Enjoy.......

2009-12-27T05:40:00.000-08:00

Enjoy these new flowers that I have discovered during my walks around Bangui! This singular yellow flower (1st picture) was poised on this branch 7 feet high!

The Branch from Jesse

2009-12-27T05:00:00.000-08:00

It was not long after we had moved into our new house on the center that I noticed this tree stump just outside of our living room window. I immediately thought of 'the Branch from Jesse', which is written Isaiah 11:1-3 "A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse; from his roots a Branch will bear fruit. The Spirit of the LORD will rest on him-the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of power, the Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD and he will delight in the fear of the LORD". The footnote within my NIV Bible reads as follows concerning these Scripture verses; The Messiah will grow as a shoot from that stump of David's dynasty.

Needless to say, that each day and every time that I walk past this particular window where I can see this stump with this small shoot of a branch coming out of it (look closely at the picture above, where the green new shoot is growing from this tree stump) I reflect on these Scripture verses.

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-25T21:41:00.000-08:00

O, Christmas tree....O, Christmas tree....

2009-12-20T06:17:00.000-08:00

O, Christmas tree.....this is our lovely little Christmas tree for our first Christmas in Bangui! We were given permission by our neighbors to borrow this adorable little Christmas tree, while they are home with their families on furlough during this Christmas.

What was seen from our birds eye view....

2009-12-20T05:41:00.000-08:00

~ beautiful palm trees and mango trees ~

~ lizard enjoying the warmth of the sun ~

~ two men pushing a cart, loaded with wood ~

Remember to left double click your mouse on the photos above, if you would like to view them better.

These were just a few things we had seen from our birds eye view while up on the top of the roof, yesterday.

This lizard, which we commonly see around our house, was about 15 foot up, resting on this vary spot, enjoying the warmth of the sun.

The two men pushing this cart, is also something commonly seen all through out the streets of Bangui. These long tree trunks that are transported by these carts are pushed for miles to be cut down to size for usable firewood. Central Africans use firewood as a means to do all of their cooking.

A birds eye view....or, is it a view of the birds eye?

2009-12-20T05:24:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was a real treat for me, Trace and I decided to get a birds eye view...from the top of our roof! Picture above....Trace sitting way at the top of the roof.....where I did not dare to go. I sat and stayed one level below the peak of the roof, where he was sitting. Next blog entry.....what the birds eye view allowed us to see.

Quotable Quotes

2009-12-20T05:21:00.001-08:00

~ Quotable Quotes ~

"God can't give us peace and happiness apart from Himself because there is no such thing." C.S. Lewis

I can see clearly now....

2009-12-13T06:13:00.000-08:00

~ bedroom window before cleaning ~

~ bedroom window after it was cleaned ~

We were told prior to arriving in Bangui, CAR that December is the dustiest month. We can certainly understand the wisdom in these words. This is very normal for Bangui this time a year to become very dusty. The reason for this is, that the 'rainy season' has ended, and it's now 'dry season'. With no rain for 5 weeks now, it continues to get drier and drier here, the humidity has dropped from in the low 90% during 'rainy season' to now in around 70% humidity during the 'dry season'.

The top picture shows a view from our bedroom window looking out, into our lovely garden. The hazy look across the picture is a glass window louver that is completely covered in dust...not, the kind of dust we know in the US, but dirt kind of dust, from the earth being so very dry. This is a result of one weeks worth of accumulation of this dirt dust stuff. The bottom picture shows how nice and clean and clear our glass looks after it was cleaned. I can see clearly now!

No surprise!

2009-12-13T05:58:00.000-08:00

~ African Animal Batik ~

It probably comes as no surprise that this African animal batik that we have so proudly displayed on our living room wall for decoration, is my favorite souvenir we have purchased at a nearby Artisans market. Of course, anything having an animal(s) painted, drawn, carved from wood, embroidered..etc. ~ I just simply enjoy, because of my love for animals.

1st of December - CAR Independence Day!

2009-12-13T05:38:00.000-08:00

Flag of Central African Republic

Boat races on the Oubangui River

On the 1st of December (which is the Independence day for CAR), we packed our picnic lunch, bathing suits, and sunscreen and headed down along the shores of the Oubangui River. It's very simple to get to, we just catch a taxi not to far from where we live on center, for approximately 1 1/2 miles to the center of city of Bangui. The Oubangui River is just a short stroll from the center of the Bangui. We joined a few friends at a swim club along the river, to enjoy our picnic lunch, a refreshing swim and to watch the every famous boat races on the Oubangui River. In this race, there were about 25 of these long dug out wooden canoes (one of these pictured above). Within one of these canoes, there were anywhere from 35 to 60 men that feverishly paddled their way down river a distance than they had to go around a point, turn around and come back up river to the finish line! WOW, what excitement!! Everyone cheering and yelling to shout a team to victory!

~Quotable Qoutes ~

2009-12-01T01:26:00.000-08:00

~ Quotable Quotes ~

"The Christian does not think God will love us because we are good, but that God will make us good because He loves us." C. S. Lewis

~ my most favorite flower ~

2009-12-01T01:17:00.000-08:00

~ my most favorite flower ~

This little delicate beautifully colored flower is my most favorite. And, the wonderful thing is...this flower grows near to our house on the center, and where we work. This means, I get to enjoy seeing them often!

Ah, water

2009-12-01T00:43:00.000-08:00

Ah, water!

Ever wonder how we filter our water, here in Africa?! Well, several times through out each day; we fill a pitcher full of water from our kitchen sink tap, then we pour it into the top of our water filter (the first picture on top). These 4 beige colored filters, slowly filter the impurities out of the water and allow the purified/clean water to pass down into the part below (the second picture on the bottom), where it reads 'British Berkefield'. Then when we need to fill our drinking water bottles, or to rinse our fruits and veggies (after cleansing them in bleach water) we turn up the spout ( located on the very bottom of the second photo), and we get our filtered drinking water.

I clean these 4 beige water filters about every 3-4 weeks. You simply take off the top half of the entire water filter, then you can detach these filters by unscrewing them. One by one, I simply take a regular kitchen scrub brush, scrub the filter (which feels chalky), under the kitchen sink tap water. Using tap water only, no soap, no bleach...etc. Then, once all 4 of the filters are cleaned, I reattach them by screwing them back into the top part of the water filter. Last step, I add a big pitcher full of kitchen sink tap water.....a little later...ah, clean, purified water!

The coffee mug was placed next to our water filter, so that you can get an idea of the size of it. This water filter holds approximately 6 liters of water.

Puppy Love!

2009-11-27T02:12:00.001-08:00

~ Puppy Love ~

Oh, how adorable is this puppy?! In my past, I had worked for 13 years as a veterinarian technician...and, well I have to say, I have always had a love for animals, and I always will...they have a special place in my heart! This little puppy pictured above, is what a typical African dog looks like. Ah, puppy love!

No, we have not adopted a dog....this little puppy belongs to an African family....I was just loving him a little, while I had the chance.

We have come to find out through others who live in Bangui, how challenging it is to own a pet here. So, we have decided not to adopt a pet while we are living here....trying to prevent heartache.

Thanksgiving Bangui Style

2009-11-27T00:34:00.001-08:00

Thanksgiving Bangui Style

Yesterday, being Thanksgiving, we were so graciously given the opportunity to have a 'Thanksgiving Celebration' at the US Embassy, with the host and hostess of the US Ambassador and his wife, along with many others from the Bangui community.

We enjoyed the usual Thanksgiving feast, of chicken as a substitute for turkey (since turkeys don't exist in Bangui). We enjoyed eating all of the other delicious foods one enjoys on Thanksgiving day: sweet potatoes, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and a whole lot of wonderfully delicious other side dishes (picture above on my dinner plate), and desserts too!

Okay, you are probably wondering why their is a picture of Trace alongside a tortoise. Well, the Ambassador and his wife, keep and care for two adult tortoise, a baby tortoise and also a river turtle. The male tortoise name is 'Monsieur' (Mr.) and the female tortoise name is 'Madame' (Mrs.), and of course the babies name is 'Garcon' (which is 'boy'). The tortoise in the picture with Trace is 'Monsieur'.

We also had an afternoon filled with fun activities as well at the US Embassy, like going swimming, and Trace enjoyed a game of tennis...which he loves!

Bible Study

2009-11-27T00:22:00.000-08:00

~ Bible Study ~

Oh, how very grateful I am for this, the first Bible study that I will be able to be a part of since we arrived in Bangui this past Jan.. I'm really excited for this Bible study to begin, mainly because I've not participated in Bible study in some time! This is a Beth Moore Bible study on the life and ministry of Paul. This small group ladies Bible study begins on Tuesday, Dec. 8.....I can't wait!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-25T21:24:00.000-08:00

"Happy Thanksgiving"!

Trace and I send to you our "Happy Thanksgiving" greeting from Bangui, CAR! We do hope and pray that your day is filled with an abundance of blessings! Give thanks to God, for He is good.

Bang.....look out for falling mango's!

2009-11-08T07:46:00.000-08:00

~ BANG.....look out for falling mango's ~

On October 15, Trace and I moved into our latest 'new' home, that is on the center where we work. We have all types of fruit bearing trees, including mango's. We weren't expecting what happens when one lives with a mango tree that shades our lovely home. As we were unpacking our things the first day in our new home.....all of a sudden....BANG on the top of our metal roof!!! What was that?! Well, we had found out that, yes indeed, it was a mango! You can only imagine the ruckus a mango makes when it hits your metal roof from about a 25 foot drop! Since that time, we usually hear a mango fall once day, sometime during our day....it's a matter of when.

We will be posting pictures of our home soon!

Heinz Ketchup?!

2009-11-06T21:38:00.001-08:00

~ Heinz Ketchup?! ~

Okay, all you Pittsburghers......see if you can find this Heinz Ketchup bottle in Giant Eagle the next time you go shopping! Make sure to double left click your mouse on this picture, to enlarge the photo....you will see that indeed, it is Heinz!

Gifts.....they come in all kinds of packages

2009-11-06T21:19:00.000-08:00

~ Gifts....they come in all kinds of packages ~

For instance, this lovely looking pineapple. It was given to us by friends of ours as we were packing up from the last house we were living in, to move to our new house on the center, where we work. This loving looking, and delicious tasting pineapple I might add, was a gesture of a parting gift. This pretty decorative red box with a beautifully knitted purple wash cloth inside was given to us from a friend, as a part of our 'house warming' gifts. For each friend who has given from their heart a 'house warming' gift we have received, we are so truly grateful!" Thank you!

Mere Christianity

2009-10-18T04:52:00.001-07:00

~ Mere Christianity ~

As of today, I have begun to read Mere Christianity written by C.S. Lewis. Now, we will see how long it will take me to complete reading it!

I will leave you with this quote from him; 'If you look for truth, you may find comfort in the end; if you look for comfort you will not get either comfort or truth only soft soap and wishful thinking to begin, and in the end, despair.

Back in Bangui!

2009-10-18T04:14:00.000-07:00

~ Back in Bangui ~

We have arrived back to our home in Bangui! Our flight connections and travels all went very well. And once we arrived in Bangui, we were pleased to see all of our luggage arrive as well.

Once we arrived it didn't take long to get right back into living life here once more...the familiar sights, sounds and even smells....ah, we are back in Bangui!

This past week, we were in the midst of packing up our belongings in our home that we had been renting since around the month of April, and we moved on Thursday, Oct. 15 to our new home on the center that we will be working on each day. Each home we have lived on since we arrived in Bangui on Feb. 19, 2009 has been filled with blessings and we have begun to build fond memories of each one. Now, we will begin a fresh, and a new beginning in our new home, with it's charms and some new challenges.

Back to Bangui!!

2009-09-27T12:58:00.000-07:00

We are returning back to Bangui, Central African Republic (CAR)!! Our flight leaves from Denver, CO on Tuesday, Sept. 29 and we arrive in Bangui, CAR on Thursday, Oct. 1. We are really excited about our return, we have really missed all the precious people of Bangui, our colleagues and friends who are there!

We begin our travels from Denver, CO to Detroit, MI then to London, England Heathrow, then to Paris and then finally to Bangui.

Once we have arrived and have settled in a couple of days, we will begin our work again at the center on Monday, October 5!

Look for more of our Bangui blogs soon!

Events and activities....

2009-09-27T12:49:00.000-07:00

These are some of the events and activities we've been able to enjoy while living in Longmont, CO with my parents, over the past 3 months while in the USA. Some of these events took place while waiting to have my cervical surgery done, and some of these took place post-operative to my cervical surgery.

Each Sunday, we attended a lovely church in Longmont ~ the congregation and pastors have all been a tremendous blessing to us during our stay.

I say both of my nephews graduate from one level in karate to another level (changing color of their belts)

We attended a couple of my nephews Niwot Varsity football games - 'Go Cougars'!

A delightful visit with my Aunt and cousin (who were traveling through to visit with family through out the USA)

Enjoyed the 'Ladies Tea' given by my sister

A time to celebrate my Dad's birthday and Trace's birthday, while with family

I had enjoyed a Sabbath Saturday - a ladies gathering from the church, focusing on prayer

Tea Time!

2009-09-27T12:38:00.000-07:00

~ Ladies Tea Time ~

It's 'Tea Time'......no, I've not found my way back to England! My sister Sandra, who really enjoys gathering for ladies teas, had put together a lovely 'Mother-Daughter Tea Time' on Saturday, September 19. Over the years, Sandra has collected beautiful different patterns of tea pots and tea cups, so delightfully dainty. During our tea time, she gave the tradition of tea time and the history of the tea cup. During our tea, we enjoyed delicious banana bread with a light creamery cream cheese spread, cream puffs,cookies and fresh fruit, all while we enjoyed sipping our English Breakfast Tea. It was a wonderful time to slooooow down for a part of the day, away from the business of live, sip some tea, and enjoy conversation.

Truly Thankful

2009-09-24T13:39:00.000-07:00

We are truly thankful that on September 15 my 6 week post-operative appointment went so well. What was shared with us during this post-operative appointment was that my healing has gone very well, and my 6 week post-op x-ray looks good! I've been 'okayed' to travel back to Bangui, Central African Republic to begin our work again! We are giving all thanks to God for his faithfulness and goodness to us, and for my continued healing and comfort! God is good!! My neck continues to feel very well, a little stiff when working on my 'range of motion' for my neck, but this will take time, and I've only had 1 headache in the 7 weeks of my post-op ~ incrediable!

Thank you again so very much for your many prayers, 'get-well' cards, and emails during this time ~they have meant so very much to Trace and I, our hearts have been truly and tremendously touched and know what a blessing you are to us!

Waiting...

2009-09-12T09:56:00.000-07:00

As we wait, we wait patiently in the Lord for my September 15 post-operative appointment with the neurosurgeon as to what he will have to say concerning my progress and evaluation of my cervical fusion X-ray. Once we have seen the neurosurgeon for this appointment, we will share with you what he thinks and when we can return to Bangui, Central African Republic to continue serving there!

In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps.
Proverbs 16:9

We are indeed making our plans to return to Bangui, CAR and we rest in knowing that it is God who determines our steps!

Strabucks fan?

2009-09-12T09:36:00.000-07:00

~ Starbucks fan? ~

Yep, I'll admit it, I'm a Starbucks fan! Once my neurosurgeon said the day of my cervical surgery I get to enjoy eating meals of; ice cream, milk shakes and other soothing soft foods over the next few days...I thought...hmm, Starbucks banana chocolate Vivanno! So, while driving home after my late afternoon surgical outpatient discharge, my dear sister and my husband made a stop at Starbucks specifically to get me my dinner for that evening....yes, you guessed it, the banana chocolate Vivanno! I was so delighted to discover this delicious cold treat.

Smile!

2009-09-12T09:21:00.000-07:00

Smile!

A memorable moment caught on camera by Sandy, of Elly and I as we were enjoying our lunch sandwiches during our day in Oxford, England!

Quotable Quotes

2009-09-12T08:48:00.000-07:00

~ Quotable Quotes ~

"Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in. Aim at earth and you get neither".
C.S. Lewis

Since my time spent in Oxford England, I have begun to take a real keen interest in C.S. Lewis, his life and his writings. Recently, I began reading: C.S. Lewis Master Storyteller ~ written by Janet & Geoff Benge. It begins with the childhood of Lewis and it continues through his life's experiences and writings, it's an easy read, it has captured my interest, and has made me appreciate even more the time spent in Oxford.

At this time I've read just a little over half this book and I'm wondering already...which of C.S. Lewis's s shall I begin with first?

Compassionate, caring cards....

2009-09-11T10:53:00.000-07:00

~ compassionate, caring cards ~

WOW.....what an amazing overwhelming out pour of compassion and caring express to me and Trace as well through cards, emails and phone calls over our 2 months staying in Colorado for my cervical herniation/fusion surgery and recovery. Our hearts are truly grateful and we feel tremendously blessed by so many, during this time. THANK YOU so very much for your many faithful prayers, for your kind and encouraging words, your love of Christ shown to us ~ know how very much this means to us and how much we appreciated them all!

Above, is the numerous 'get well' cards I had received through the postal mail. And, if you look towards the bottom of this picture, you will see there are two rows of square colorful print cards....these lovely little 'get well' cards on the inside were creatively; written, drawn and colored by many children attending VBS at our home church of Jefferson Center Presbyterian Church! What a wonderful surprise this was ~ THANK YOU!

Your kindness, love and thoughtfulness will always be remembered!

Love the Look?

2009-09-10T07:35:00.000-07:00

~ Love the Look? ~

This is my new look for 6 weeks post cervical surgery/fusion! It's not very fashionable, however it's very necessary to wear. I'm to wear this cervical collar at all times except while; showering, sleeping and eating. Since this photo, I've added some color to my collar wardrobe...it's a little more fun to add some color to your collar!

What was found.....

2009-09-09T13:44:00.001-07:00

~ My post operative surgical cervical herniation/fusion X-ray ~

After arriving in Colorado on July 9, I promptly had an MRI and an appointment with an excellent neurosurgeon in Boulder,CO. My MRI results showed that I had a disc herniation between C4 and C5. When the neurosurgeon said to me that I was at risk of spinal cord injury due to the severity of the disc herniation....it really hit me, just how serious this was!

On August 6, I went into the hospital for the repair to the disc herniation and fusion between my C4 and C5 vertebrae. The X-ray above shows the plate and screws (the fusion part of surgery). Two screws were drilled into my C4 vertebrae and two screws were drilled into my C5 vertebrae to hold the plate in place. In time, this will form a fusion of bone bridging the C4 and C5. I'm truly grateful for my sister who is an amazing compassionate surgical nurse at the hospital where I had my surgery at, for the very gifted neurosurgeon who preformed my surgery and for the wonderful, caring nursing staff and all those who had a part in my surgical case....they were all absolutely compassionate and gave me the utmost care during my 'out patient' surgery. To all, I give thanks to God for!

My unexpected episode!

2009-09-09T13:20:00.001-07:00

~ My unexpected episode! ~

The day spent in Oxford was one of fascination in learning the history and also with an immense headache. Despite this immense annoying headache, I enjoyed my day in Oxford very much!

I was not able to shake this headache all day, and later in the wee hours of the morning (Monday, June 29), I had not gotten any relief from my ibuprofen that I was taking. Well, all of Monday and Tuesday I had spent laying in my dorm room flat on my back or sitting in this position (pictured above) unable to open my eyes much due to the extreme amounts of neck pain and headache!

I'm truly grateful for all those who I was attending training with, they were extremely caring and compassionate to me during this time of discomfort! Unable to get out of bed, due to the discomfort, many of my new friends made during this training would bring me my meals from the cafeteria and tea and cookies during our scheduled break during our training. They would stop by just to sit with me, to check on how I was doing, and to pray for me. What a comfort to have so many care for me and show the love of Christ at this difficult time. By Tuesday morning, Trace was sent an email to fly out of Bangui and arrive in the UK as soon as he could. He arrived that Thursday, July 1...we give thanks to the Lord for providing for his travels to be with me so quickly! After Trace arrived, we needed to make some decisions and travels plans back to the USA for me to have an MRI of my neck and treatment of what may be needed.

Oxford, England

2009-09-09T10:56:00.000-07:00

~ Christ Church Cathedral, Oxford England ~

Off to Oxford England we go! On Sunday, June 28 there were 5 of us from the personnel administration training in Horsleys Green that jumped into a taxi van to travel about an hour away to arrive into the city of Oxford, established in 1231!

Here's a little bit of our day spent in Oxford....we began our day with attending Christ Church Cathedral (pictured above) for a time of worship and to take in the rich history there. It is unique as a college chapel and cathedral in one foundation. Originally the Priory Church of St Frideswide, the building was extended and incorporated into the structure of the Cardinal's College shortly before its refounding as Christ Church in 1546, since which time it has functioned as the cathedral of the Diocese of Oxford.

Next...we walked all through out our day taking in all the beauty, charm and history of the many different colleges within Oxford. All in all, there are 45 colleges according to the University of Oxford's web-site. What a marvelous day spent walking along the same streets as C.S. Lewis meeting J.R.R. Tolkien in 1926.

A day to discover....

2009-06-27T22:58:00.000-07:00

Today, myself and three others are taking a small journey to Oxford, England...a day to discover!

~ The animal lover in me ~

2009-06-27T22:23:00.000-07:00

~ The animal lover in me ~

This may come as no surprise to some, especially those who know me well, that I love animals! In my previous career as a veterinarian technician I have cared for; dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, 'pocket pets' (hamsters, gerbils...etc) and most recently a tortoise, these just to name a few. It is no wonder that as I have been taking my evening strolls that as I happen along a cute little critter, I can't resist taking it's picture!

As I walked out of the centre the other evening, this handsome horse whinnied to greet me! Each evening as I return home from my walk, this kitty has greeted me just at the crest the last little leg of the trail I walk. And, one evening as I was taking a casual walk around the centre, I took notice of this rabbit at first from a far. Please understant that since leaving the USA, in early 2008 I haven't seen a rabbit hopping along it's merry way! So, this little critter intrigued moving to scurry away....I thought, well that's' odd....as I approached a little closer and even closer, the reason became apparent as to why this little critter wasn't scurrying away. He couldn't see me....NOT at all! If you are able to see closely in this picture, it's eye(s) are closed, swollen shut! As I mentioned this to a colleague, she explained to me that there is a disease that rabbits do get in the UK, that causes this.

I have also been keenly observing a type of bird here in the UK as well. As some animals and birds have a routine, this bird definatly does. It perches itself on the very tip top of a pinetree just outside my window....and each evening, it sings a little song, it's a lovely little song.

I only have a few short days left in the UK, I wonder what other type animal I may come across during my stay?!

The Parish Church of All Saints in High Wycombe

2009-06-24T23:11:00.000-07:00

~ The Parish Church of All Saints in High Wycombe ~

There has been a Christian community in Wycombe for nearly 1,000 years, and they, the present congregation, are the inheritors of their predecessors' task of building the Kingdom in this part of England.

Bishop Wulfstan of Worcester consecrated the first church on the site over 900 years ago. The builders used some material s from an even earlier age - it is still possible to see Roman stone in the walls, from a nearby 2nd century villa.

The church was rebuilt in 1275!

The Rose

2009-06-24T13:38:00.000-07:00

"The rose speaks of love silently,
in a language known only to the heart."
Anonymous

As I have walked along each day throughout the little villages in the UK, I'm so taken by their beauty. One will see, wild roses growing along the pathways, beautiful rose bushes in and around peoples homes here and archways with roses fully in bloom.

Quotable Quotes

2009-06-24T13:24:00.000-07:00

~ Quotable Quotes ~

"Hide not your talent. They for use were made. What's a sundial in the shade?"
- Benjamin Franklin

This is definitely something to ponder and pray about, do I have a gift or talent that God has given me that I'm not using or maybe don't even know that I have?

Dorm life

2009-06-24T01:23:00.000-07:00

~ Dorm Life ~

I had not ever gone to college or university, so living a dorm life is a new thing to me. Later today, I will be meeting my new lady roommates, I believe one lady is working in Cameroon and I'm not certain what country the other lady is working at. As you can see from the photo, it is a small room, what you are unable to see in the photo, is to the right of me (while I was taking this picture) there is another bed. Directly across from this bed, there is a closet, which is good size to hold our belongings, suitcases...etc.

Curiosity kills the cat!

2009-06-23T23:25:00.000-07:00

~ Curiosity kills the cat ~

A couple of days ago, I walked into the building where they serve our meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) at the center I'm currently at for personnel administration training in the UK. I look over at this vending machine, filled with many tasty treats and this candy bar just happens to catch my eye. Well, I have to say the title caught my eye; 'YORKIE' It's NOT for girls! So, now I'm curious...what does this candy bar taste like, what is in this candy bar....NOT for girls? One thought that ran through my mind....ah, it's about the marketing. Well, it worked...it had me curious enough to buy it from this vending machine. What I found in this tasty little candy bar...simply 'chocolate', milk chocolate in fact. So, curiosity killed this cat!

Which way shoud I go?

2009-06-22T13:44:00.001-07:00

Which way should I go?

Yesterday, as I took a walk through a lovely little countryside road not far from where I'm staying in the UK for a week of training for my work, I happened along this stone mile marker. I wasn't' sure, do I walk to Oxford, London or maybe I should just walk to Wycombe....since it's only 5 miles to reach that destination. A bit of information, the distance of travel in the UK is measured in miles, not kilometers.

This past Saturday, I had decided to take a nice long walk to a little village called; Stockenchurch. It took me about 2 hours round trip. I so enjoyed walking along, having the opportunity of seeing the beautiful countryside of the UK. Beautiful lush fields of green pastures, with horses, sheep and cattle.

~ Picture of the Week ~

2009-06-21T11:29:00.000-07:00

~ Picture of the Week ~

This beautiful set of white blossoms are found on a tree just behind the home that we currently living in.

Now that's a leaf!

2009-06-21T11:18:00.001-07:00

Well, I knew that there would be large palm trees swaying in the breeze and certainly bugs grow bigger in Africa, but the size of this leaf amazed me. Now that's a leaf! After seeing this leaf, I thought maybe it's a good thing they don't have the season of fall here in Bangui. Could you imagine racking up a whole yard of these leafs?!

How romantic!

2009-06-21T11:06:00.000-07:00

How romantic....Trace shows up with these beautiful and extremely sweet fragrant bouquet of flowers! There is a gentleman who sells them along the street, not to far from where we live. Not long ago, Trace arrived home with these beautiful flowers....to say to me; "I love you".

My usual place....

2009-06-21T10:41:00.000-07:00

This is my usual space while I'm at work. However, my work really begins at home each morning, around 7AM. I have the ability to set up my computer at home and use a program to write my work emails ahead of time and then save them until I reach the center, where I work. I usually finish writing emails at home by 11 AM, I have my lunch and then I'm ready to catch a taxi to work (which is normally at 12:30PM). Once I arrive at the center, I simply connect onto the Internet, bring in all the "receive" emails and then "send" the emails that I had written earlier that morning. Afterward, I will look through each email while I'm still there at work and if there is something that has a need for an urgent reply, I will write my reply and send it along. Otherwise, I will pack up my computer, take another taxi home and once I arrive back home....well, by that time it's time to start dinner. The next day, I begin this work routine all over again...Monday through Friday, well except on Wednesday.....however, that's another blog entry. Look for that blog entry soon!

You can't have one without the other!

2009-06-21T10:23:00.001-07:00

If you will notice on the left of this picture....a delicious plate of freshly baked chocolate chip cookies. On the right of the picture, a 9x13 baking pan and Tupperware container. As the title of this blog states "you can't have one without the other. Notice the photo below.
You're thinking to yourselves....okay, so what's the big deal? Well, as I discovered with baking cookies or baking anything in Africa for that matter, once you have placed something on the kitchen counter to cool.....you have just welcomed every ant that resides anywhere near your home! I made this mistake, but only once! I then learned from another missionary, who is our neighbor and friend a neat way of allowing your baked goods to cool and not invite every ant to take part! I call it the 'ant moat'. What may be difficult to see in this picture is, there is about 1 1/2 inches of water in the 9x13 baking pan. Ants don't like water, and they certainly are not going to try and walk on it! So, there you have it. A missionaries way of allowing baked goods to cool without having every ant enjoying your cookies!

Our Oubangui River Boat Ride!

2009-05-01T03:18:00.000-07:00

Fruits and Vegetables

A couple of ladies who were selling the fruits and vegetables

Hippo Horray!

WOW, what an adventure! On Saturday April 4th, we had the opportunity to take a river boat ride up the Oubangui River, which is located along the city of Bangui. The day was perfect, with some cloud cover and a little breeze to keep cool. Our mission that day....was to find a hippopotamus! And we did (actually we did find two, the other one just isn't pictured here)! There were two that we had the chance to see and to get really good photos of. They were not very pleased with us though, invading their territory mind you. Once our boat had been getting a little too close for their liking, they both began to swim.....quickly, I might add, towards the boat!

After we had the chance to see the hippo's our boat guides moved along further up river. Our boat guides located a nice little beach along the river where stopped to enjoy: a delicious picnic lunch, swimming and a whole lot of time of relaxation!

During our time along the beach, there were a couple of ladies who were selling fruits and vegatables (picture above). In the top picture is a a great big bowl of: bread fruit, papayas, avacodos and a stalk of bananas. In the second picture, the great big bowl on the left is filled with mangos (my personal favorite!). The common way that you will see ladies carry these fruits and vegatables to sell, is with these great big bowls that they place upon their heads. You will see these ladies walking up and down many of the streets in Bangui. We also have a very dear lady who every Monday, Wednesday and Friday arrives at our doorstep around 6:30 AM to ask if we would like to buy any fruits/veggies that day.

Picture of the Week

2009-05-01T03:10:00.000-07:00

~ Picture of the Week~

This handsome fellow found a nice resting place for the entire day, on the outside of our front door to our house! Be sure to double left "click" your mouse to view this photo better.

Picture of the Week!

2009-04-13T02:12:00.000-07:00

~ Picture of the Week ~
Leaping Lizards!

No......he wasn't really leaping! This handsome fellow (approximately around 1 foot long) was not to far off from our camera lens when we were taking some picture of flowers around the house. I love the multiple color effect from nose to tail!

(Remember to left double click your mouse on the picture to see the picture enlarged)

veggie tales?

2009-04-13T01:05:00.000-07:00

Step 1 (above)

Step 2 (above)

Step 3 (above)

We thought that this blog should be appropriately called: veggie tales! For the reason that this is a story of what our veggies (fruits and eggs too) need to go through as a preparation before we eat them. After buying our fruits, veggies and eggs from street vendors, we bring them home for this preparation we commonly call as "javeling" ("javel" in English is "bleach").

Step 1 - these are just purchased fruits and veggies, they are then place to the left side of the sink, then I will wash them with soap and water, prior to putting them into the "javel" water (next picture).

Step 2 - as you can see from this step our produce is placed into a plastic basin (this basin is marked "javel" on it and is specifically used ONLY for "javeling" produce) along with tap water and "javel" added to the tap water to completely cover over the produce and then left to sit for 20 minutes.

After 20 minutes, I then take another plastic basin and fill it with filtered water ONLY, for the rinsing of the produce. (I did not add this picture in, as it looks the same as the second picture).

Step 3 - this shows our produce drying in our dish rack after the "javeling" process. Once they are dry, all the produce can than be placed into the refrigerator for cooking/eating when you wish to.

If you are wondering as to why we "javel", it is to kill any amobeas that may be lingering on them.

The different fruits that are pictured from the top picture are from left to right:

Pineapple
Papaya (larger green fruit to the top of the picture)
Avocados (smaller green fruit)
Cuccumbers
Mangos (smaller redish/yellowish looking fruit)
Lemons (the small yellow fruit to the top right of the picture)
Carrots

Picture of the Week

2009-04-06T08:36:00.000-07:00

~ Picture of the Week ~

This is something we see here on a daily basis as we walk along the roadside or traveling to and from work. A truck completely overloaded with some sort of supplies and a whole lot of people riding along with it....it's incredible. Do you think there's room for me?!

God's Word

2009-04-01T05:01:00.000-07:00

God's Word

I absolutely love this picture.....this group of Central Africans are listening to God's Word being preached during a Sango service. This is a church that we had gone to for several weeks, while temporarily living in a colleagues home. We attended the earlier service on Sunday morning which was spoken in French and this picture was taken during a Sango service (which is about an hour after the French service). What is difficult to tell from this picture is this church seats about 1,200 people.....so, as you can see there is well more than that, that are seeking to hear God's Word in Sango. The French language is the govermental language of Central Africa, while Sango is the national language. It is amazing to me and it fills my heart with such joy to see these people willing to stand during a 3 hour long Sango service. Makes me wonder....how long would we be willing to stand while listening to God's Word.

Cooking by Candlelight!

2009-04-01T04:28:00.000-07:00

Cooking by Candlelight!

How does one manage to cook without electricity in Africa?! Fortunately our stove is supplied by propane gas....so, you can cook your meal. However, when the electricity does go out (which is a daily occurrence....and you never know when it will go out) while you are preparing dinner....you simply cook by candle light! Oh yes, and it really helps to use a headlamp too! A fellow missionary had suggested for us to purchase headlamps prior to arriving in Africa, for just this very reason . Brilliant!

A little side note: Have you noticed that our candle holder is fashioned from an old wine bottle? When you wish to buy peanuts as a snack here, the street vendors who sell them package them into old washed out wine bottles. Once they put peanuts in the bottle, they cork the bottle back up, so that ants and bugs can't get into them! By the way, this is the only way to buy your peanuts in Bangui.

Cooking by candle light.....

2009-03-30T03:37:00.000-07:00

Cooking by candle light!

How does one manage to cook without electricity in Africa?! Fortunately our stove is supplied by propane gas....so, you can cook your meal. However, when the electricity does go out (which is a daily occurrence...and you never know when it will go out) while you are preparing dinner....you simply cook by candle light! Oh yes, and it really helps to use a headlamp too! A fellow missionary had suggested for us to purchase headlamps prior to arriving in Africa, for just this very reason.

A little side note: Have you noticed that our candle holder is fashioned from an old wine bottle? When you wish to buy peanuts as a snack here, the street vendors who sell them package them into old /used washed out wine bottles. Once they put peanuts in the bottle, they cork the bottle back up, so that ants and bugs can't get into them! By the way, this is the only way to buy your peanuts in Bangui.

What a view!

2009-03-30T02:54:00.000-07:00

What a view!

This was the view from the apartment that we rented for approximately a month (in the month of March). What is not pictured in this view is the chickens and roasters that would roam through several times a day (like clockwork). We also enjoyed watching a beautiful white egret walk through this area as well each morning....looking for bugs to eat.

Donuts!

2009-03-20T04:18:00.000-07:00

Donuts.....we have found dounts!

Where we are currently living we are only about a 10 minute walk to buy and enjoy this wonderful little donut treats! There is a lady who sets up a huge metal kettle filled with oil and places it over a fire made from coal and wood to make these donuts. A couple of times a week, we will take a walk to see if this dear lady is making these donuts....oh, what a disappointment when she is not there!
They are absolutly delicious!

African Style Fashion....

2009-03-20T03:47:00.000-07:00

Karen, proudly wearing her first African style blouse and skirt. The detailing in this blouse is absolutely beautiful.

Trace, proudly wearing his African style shirt that was thoughtful and wonderfully made by an African colleague.

Benders in Bangui!

2009-03-19T07:31:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Bangui Benders!

This was the welcome sign on our door as we entered our room at the guesthouse the first day we arrive in Bangui, Feb.19. We stayed at the guesthouse for 5 days, we then moved and are currently living in a fellow colleagues home, while she is away working on translation in another part of CAR. This sign (pictured above) was so lovingly and thoughtfully made by a couple of MK's (missionary kids)! THANKS to all our colleagues who have so warmly welcomed us and continue to help us get settled in here!

Bon Voyage!

2009-02-17T09:02:00.000-08:00

Today was a day filled with a few surprises including meeting with a friend so that she could say "good-bye" to us, wish us well and give us these cookies (pictured above). She thoughtfully baked and decorated them for us to enjoy on our travels to Bangui, CAR! THANK YOU Lindsey so very much! The English translation for "bon voyage" is "good journey".

What is Valentines Day in Switzerland with out chocolate.....

2009-02-14T04:16:00.000-08:00

This morning for Valentines Day, my dear husband surprised me with my favorite Suisse chocolate bar! Thank you Trace, I love you and Happy Valentines Day!

What is really special to me, is that Trace has remembered exactly which Suisse chocolate was my favorite. I'll explain.....since we have arrived in Switzerland, I have tried many different brands (and there are several brands and types of chocolates available, it's mind boggling....in the land of cheese and chocolate) and he picked my favorite!

Quotable Quotes.....

2009-02-14T03:30:00.000-08:00

"When I have learnt to love God better than my earthly dearest, I shall love my earthly dearest better than I do now."
--C. S. Lewis

The Basin and the Towel

2009-02-13T03:08:00.000-08:00

~ The Basin and the Towel ~

Reflecting back.....I remember while going through several weeks of training in a cross-cultural communication course in the fall of 2007, we were to each gather a stone and on this stone to write something that was to represent our thoughts and feelings about serving as a missionary. On my stone I had written from the title of Micheal Card's song "The Basin and the Towel". This being one of my most favorite songs and written below as to why.

This song speaks of how our Savior Servant Jesus is in an up-stairs room with His disciples during the time just before the Passover Feast. For the complete Scriptural reading - John 13:1-17. Jesus must show the disciples how, through the will of the water and the tenderness of the towel...and the call is to community, to serve others in humility. And after Jesus had washed his disciples feet, Jesus says to them starting in verse 14 "Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another's feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done this for you."

This is my daily prayer that in humility I take the vow to day after day, I must take up the basin and the towel.

Mount First

2009-02-13T02:18:00.000-08:00

Lionel and I at the summit of Mount First

God's incredible creations!

During the time that the Lord has blessed us with studying French in Neuchâtel Switzerland, we have been blessed with many fun and enjoyable things to take part in. During our 13 months here I have had opportunity, thanks to our friend Lionel to go for some amazing hikes and to go all terrain bicycling in the Jura mountians near where we live.

Karen had asked me to write about my most memorable adventure here in Switzerland. It was an easy answer for me to make....Mount First, in the Suisse Alps! Lionel had invited me to join him for an all day hike on a beautiful late fall day in October.

We began our day by taking an early train trip to a village called Frutigen at the base of some of the Suisse Alps. Our 9 hour hike started at around 8:15 am, leaving from Frutigen. With our backpacks full, we began hiking through some incredible beautiful country, as we started our climb to the summit of Mount First. I feel the photos do not do justice to how stunning the surroundings are in the Alps. The lush valleys and meadows that we hiked through in the cold morning air, were breathtaking. The Lord's hand of creation was so amazingly obvious as I took each and every step. Lionel is an excellent guide, in that he would point out the many different kinds of meadow flowers (some which are eatable) and moss, taking time to explain them to me as we continued our ascent.

After nearly 5 hours of steady hiking and climbing, we reached the 8,359 foot summit of Mount First, we stopped for a much appreciated lunch! The view from where we sat at the summit to eat was indescribable....words cannot express the majesty of what was surrounding us. It was very cool to be above the birds and small airplanes that were flying below us.

After lunch, was of course followed by a 4 hour plus of hiking back down to a village called Kanderstag (if you have not yet guessed by the names of the villages, we were in the German speaking area of Switzerland at this time.) This day was filled with wonderful sights, sounds and smells of the beautiful Suisse Alps. By the time we caught our train for the nearly two hour trip home....we had ascended over 5,800 feet of altitude and then descended the same 5,800 feet!

It's a day that I will always remember fondly, for the beauty seen and the time spent with my friend Lionel.

~ Picture of the Week ~

2009-02-12T02:59:00.000-08:00

~ Picture of the Week~

The countdown begins...

2009-02-09T03:43:00.000-08:00

We have only 10 more days and we arrive in Bangui, CAR!! Mind you, this comes with much in the way of mixed emotions: excitement to arrive in Bangui, to begin helping as support staff for those who work in translation both in literacy and the Bible. We are also grateful to God for His faithfulness and goodness to us ~ over this past year in Switzerland, God has provided for us in every way, taught us, stretch us and brought us through a trail we did not anticipate. Yes, we are experiencing a little sadness too, it's difficult to say our farewells to those new friends here in Switzerland who have been such a tremendous blessing to us!

You may be wondering....What about the all the other emotions that we have concerning arriving in Bangui?!....to be continued in our next blog, later this week!

It's been how long since I've skiied?

2009-02-05T05:12:00.000-08:00

It's been 25 years since I last cross-country skiied and what an amazing area to have opportunity to ski again in the region of Vue des Aples, Switzerland! Our friend Christianne offered to spend our language learning time together last Monday while cross-country skiing. She thought this would be a great memory for us and she is absolutely right, we will always remember the fun, laughter, the beauty of seeing the Alpes and challenge and accomplishment it was for me, not for Trace mind you. He and Christianne are extremely athletic and....well, I'm not that athletic nor corrodinated (something that's needed with staying up-right on skiis).

Trace was impressed though on how well I did during our 3 hour cross-country ski adventure (bless his heart, he was so encouraging). After 6 times of falling down, I stopped counting. We had a GREAT time ~ THANK YOU Christianne so very much for this cross-county ski adventure ~ what a great memory!

We are GLAD to be back!

2009-02-05T05:07:00.000-08:00

We are GLAD to be back! Our Internet connection problem was corrected and began working again from our aparment this past Tuesday ( Feb. 3 ). And we are grateful for it. We thank you for your patience in our responses to your e-mails and we are grateful for your visiting our blog-site ~ happy reading!

Pardon our silence....for the moment!

2009-01-30T10:33:00.000-08:00

Things do not always go smoothly with modern technology, especially when there was a tremendously strong wind storm that blew through Les Geneveys-sur-Coffrane last Thursday. Ever since then, we have had no Internet connection at our apartment. So, we apologize for our silence on our blog-site this past week. At this time, if we wish to communicate via e-mail and blog we need to use a computer at the library in Neuchâtel (about a 20 minute train ride from our apartment). We would ask if your would please be patient with us in returning a response to your e-mails at this time. We are unsure at this time how long this will last. Rest assured we will back e-mailing and bloggin as soon as we can!

Isn't this a neat idea!

2009-01-22T01:57:00.000-08:00

Isn't this a neat idea!

One thing we have found to be a really neat thing is these water fountains throught out the city of Neuchatel, they are also found all through out Switzerland. We have found these water fountains very handy and cost effective too! We always make sure to carry our plastic water bottles with us (there is a side pouch on our back-packs that holds our water bottles) and if need be, we stop by one of these water fountains and re-fill our bottles! That's were the cost effectiveness comes in. No need to go to the store if you are in town and need to refresh your water bottle. One gets really good at knowing which water fountains are potable (drinkable) and the ones that are not ~ they are clearly marked on them if they are or are not potable. It's a little difficult to see from these pictures, but there are spouts that the water continues to flow out 24/7/365. Make sure to left double click on the pictures above to see them better.

Good ole McDonald's

2009-01-22T01:37:00.001-08:00

Good ole McDonald's

Several weeks ago, Trace and I decided to treat ourselves to a good ole McDonald's meal since the first time we arrived in Switzerland! There is two McDonald's that exist in Neuchâtel, one is located in the train station and the other is in the center of town. Can we tell who just how happy Trace was to have this special McDonald's treat?! Here's a little interesting bit of information, if you would like to get packets of Ketchup (Heinz brand, by the way) to go with your french fries it costs 20 cents a packet!

~ Picture of the Week ~

2009-01-13T12:11:00.001-08:00

This was the breath-taking view Trace and our friend Lionel had as they climbed Mt. First back in the month of October.

Changes....

2009-01-13T11:18:00.000-08:00

Changes....

What does that look like? For us at the moment, this is what it looks like....

1) Packing 5 suitcases of luggage to move to Africa in 5 weeks.

2) Being in prayer for our transition ~ living in Africa.

3) Beginning to write "good-byes" and "thank you" cards to our friends in Swizerland that have been such tremendous blessings to us this past year.

4) Finding out, those last minute items that we may really NEED to buy here before we arrive in Africa. How many toothbrushes do we need for the next 3 years?

5) Moving from daytime temperatures of 5 degrees to daytime temperatures of 95 degrees. YEAH!!

6) Who has the best deals on mosquito nets anyway?

Anyway, these are just a few of the changes that we have at the moment and in the not to distant future.

Quotable Qoutes.....

2009-01-03T03:05:00.000-08:00

"Home Sweet Home"

2009-01-02T07:47:00.001-08:00

"Home Sweet Home"
"Le Nid" in French translates to "the nest"

As I have looked out our windows this morning seeing the fresh fallen snow and new frost on everything, I give thanks to God for our cozy apartment ~ le nid!

Our time in Switzerland is coming to a close and we have had colleagues of ours in Bangui, Central African Republic write to us saying "enjoy the winter while you can"! The temperatures in Bangui on average lately have been 95 degrees during the day and in the evenings the average has been 68 degrees.

~ Picture of the Week ~

2009-01-02T07:39:00.001-08:00

~ Picture of the Week ~

On my 2009 New Years Day stroll......

2009-01-01T05:57:00.000-08:00

I never get tired of seeing these pine trees with fresh snow fall upon them (this hillside can be seen from our kitchen window).

This photo above is my favorite!

It's difficult to tell from this photo, but this tree was all glittery with ice droplets.

This church is just down the street from our apartment, one village away called Coffrane

On my 2009 New Years Day stroll.....

I decided to take along our camera and I'm sure glad I did. Yesterday, we received twelve inches of snow in the little village of Geneveys sur-Coffrane that we live in.

All was quite in these little villages during my stroll, the birds were the only ones busy this morning.

In order to see the photos a little better, left double click the mouse on the photo.

Happy New Year!

2009-01-01T05:28:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

As we reflect back upon the past year 2008, our hearts wish to express to you through God's Word; Philippians 1:3-5 (picture and Scripture above). We are so very grateful for your partnership, your support, your friendship, your encouragement through e-mail, letters and cards! Without you, we couldn't be in missions if God didn't put you, our faithful supporters, in our life's.

We would like to wish you and your family a Happy New Year filled with; good health, peace, joy and for the Lord to pour out His blessings upon you.

If you would wish to see the Scripture and the photo better, double left click the mouse on the the photo.

Joy to the World!

2008-12-25T08:59:00.000-08:00

Joy to the World
the Lord is come
Let earth receive her King
Let every heart prepare Him room....

Wishing you a very blessed Christmas!

This Nativity scene is a special gift (it was made in Congo, Africa) given to us by dear friends of ours, before we left the USA.

Christmas eve day....

2008-12-24T07:00:00.001-08:00

It's Christmas eve day.......and at 8 AM this morning we began baking our Christmas cookies, while listening to sermon's "on-line" and singing Christmas carols! Most all of these cookies you see here, are going to be given to the two families who have invited us to join in on their celebration of Christmas eve and Christmas day.....we'll keep a few for us to enjoy too!

It's Christmas time!

2008-12-22T05:47:00.000-08:00

It's Christmas time.....and over the past few days we have been enjoying listening to our instrumental Christmas CD and listening to sermons "on-line" in the anticipation of the Christ Child's birth. We have a small amount of decorations out and our Nativity scene that we have on our shelf in our living room that we have out all year round. We been hanging up to display all the lovely and thoughtful Christmas cards we have received ~ THANK YOU to all for your Christmas wishes!!

God's goodness ~ God has provided for us and others who do not have family to be with this Christmas, two different families who's hearts so lovingly goes out to us and others! On Christmas eve, we are invited to share with a very dear family we are friends with to their home for a "Christmas walk through the snow" (if the snow stays around....it's been melting over the past couple of days). After wards we will share in a meal and then a time of Christmas carols and fellowship. On Christmas day we will attend La Rochette church, for their Christmas day service and then we are invited to share in a day of Christmas celebration with another family. We are so very grateful and give thanks to God for the hearts of these folks for us and others at this time of Christmas!

Good ole McDonald's!

2008-12-21T04:43:00.000-08:00

Good ole McDonald's

~ Picture of the Week ~

2008-12-21T04:31:00.000-08:00

~ Picture of the Week ~

Today, Trace went to the church we attend in Neuchâtel (I stayed home with a sore throat and a bit of a cold) and when he returned home, low and behold he brought this little bread man home with him. Each person as they were leaving the church service this morning received one of these little bread men. As you can see, I enjoyed savoring this with a nice cup of hot tea (to help with my sore throat of course!). At the moment we don't know if there is a story behind this little bread man as a tradition of Switzerland, but we will ask to find out, that's for sure.

Graduation Day!!

2008-12-21T02:42:00.000-08:00

~ Graduation Day ~

Well, we are officially graduated from Inlingua School of Languages!! We did not receive a diploma and that's just fine with us ~ we know the achievements we have made through out this past year. So, whats next for our French language studies you ask? Our French language coordinator has recommended we do our own French language studies at home until we leave for Africa this February. We have plenty of study material and also a couple of good inter active French language sites we are going to be using as well. We are certainly motivated, dedicated and structured to do this work at home!

We are extremely grateful for all of our teachers at Inlingua, we thank them for; their patience, their gift of teaching, their humor at times that we needed it, their comforting words of encouragement and all the extra material they allowed us to borrow to further our language skills!

Picture of the Week

2008-12-08T10:32:00.000-08:00

~ Picture of the Week ~

Château Gruyeres
in
Gruyeres, Switzerland

To enlarge the photo, left double click the mouse on the photo.

Giving thanks for Thanksgiving

2008-12-03T08:40:00.000-08:00

~ Giving thanks for Thanksgiving ~

Trace, carving the Thanksgiving turkey.

What a delicious turkey!

Lots of vegetables to savor and cranberry sauce made with real cranberries.

Home made pumpkin pie too!

Our Thanksgiving was wonderful, we had the opportunity to enjoy a Thanksgiving celebration last (Nov. 28) Friday afternoon after school. Our dear friend from Switzerland, had invited a total of 5 missionaries (Trace and I included) who are in Neuchâtel for French language studies and our French language coordinator to join in the celebration of Thanksgiving. It was a lovely time shared together and we ate very well.

We had turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, sweet potatos, cranberry sauce, vegetables, rolls and pumpkin pie with whip cream!! It was incredible ~ it was just like home! During our meal, we took turns sharing what we are thankful for and then after we enjoyed our pumpkin pie and coffee, we had a wonderful time of prayer.

A special treat!.....the guys did all the cleaning up of the dishes! One of the other ladies brought Tupperware containers, so we all were able to take home Thanksgiving leftovers. We are very grateful for our dear friends, who made all the preparations that went into this Thanksgiving dinner to make it so very special for us Americans, not being able to be home for Thanksgiving. We give thanks to God for special friends blessing us with a lovely Thanksgiving celebration.

~ Bountiful Blessings ~

2008-11-28T08:55:00.000-08:00

~ Bountiful Blessings ~

Today was the day we were able to celebrate Thanksgiving with our family of brothers and sisters in Christ here in Switzerland. We do hope and pray that your Thanksgiving day was a time shared with your loved ones. Giving thanks for God's bountiful blessings!

In our next blog entry we will share with you our pictures of our Thanksgiving feast!

Blessing in a Box...part two

2008-11-28T08:39:00.000-08:00

~ Blessing in a box....part two ~

On Tuesday, November 25 I had written in our blog site about the "Blessing in a box". What we did not know at the time when I had written about it, was the Bible that was in the box was not given to us by Trace's parents (we had assumed that, since it was in the box of all of the other things they mailed to us, along with the Bible). We have come to find out that this English/French Bible was mailed to Trace's parents from our friends back home in PA! We THANK YOU dear friends for this wonderful gift!! We can't expess enough how much we appreciate it and I (Karen) have been reading from it each day, ever since we received it!!