SHADE-

Absorption of Niger

2009-05-04T20:00:00.008-04:00

Much like my emotions, this collection of thoughts and experiences resembles patchwork; different fabric scraps arrayed with many colors, coming together to form a completed, functional yet beautiful quilt. Quilting is on my mind since my dear friend Hope is in the process of making one. A mosaic would also suffice in comparison to the inconsistent shape of my daily activities and the following jagged and smooth stones I will share.

I’ve been working at a NGO called KAMNA, which means LOVE in the Houssa language. Besides being the nutritionist and attending meetings with the government officials for the approval to partner with UNICEF and WFP(world food program), being forced to speak French, learning more about Niger, I’ve also made friends of all types.

(lady on left is coworker at KAMNA...this is at a kids program)
I’ve talked with other women in the “break room” over water, coffee and bread about things similar to typical water cooler conversations. We discussed mindsets of men, news in eachothers’ lives, the faithfulness of God, our needs, and us as women! I’ve even had my hair done(washed, combed, rolled, oiled and was even put under one of those old woman dryers) in the salon training center onsite. I’ve talked with some of the guys who differ in future hopes; one wanting to reside in his home country and the other praying to reach the promised land of America, where everything is perfect. We’re really not that different huh? But why do I feel like I have one foot in the United States and one foot in Africa? I’m straddling two different worlds, even now. Tainted with love for a culture not of my own, I’m hesitant to remove my foot from the abundance of Nigerien sand. I think my dreaded attempts would be futile anyways.

“Jesus loves me, this I know for the Bible tells me so. Little ones to Him belong.
They are weak but He is strong.” Do these little ones include puppets?

There are 3 trunks of puppets sitting on our front porch with new clothes, hair transplants, and the anticipation to be used for childrens’ ministry. Most of them worn from their many years of service makes me want to throw them in the garbage (and some of them are there now), but after some attention and care, they’re ready to shine! Why am I talking about puppets? Well because sometimes I feel like one; Controlled or influenced by others, weak and needing strong Jesus to make me anew. When these puppets are directed by a master puppeteer singing in sync with the music, and the childrens’ open-mouthed laughs respond, the puppets’ are perfect in purpose.

On a less spiritual level, these creatures have been inhabiting my bed and floor for the past few weeks as I’ve worked on them in between other time commitments. Sammy has become accustomed to playing with one for a few minutes. He loves the puppets! Tonight as we were driving in the car to our house, he randomly said, “KK, puppets sleep?” I said “Yep, but when we get home we can say goodnight to them.” And so that’s what we did.

I’m not going to portray myself as some tough girl who never complains. The reality of this land right now is hotness! There is a sort of peace in knowing that you’re not the only one with sweat pouring down your body as you talk to your friend in a non-fanned living room due to power outages, or immediately when you turn the shower off.
When will the rain come and cool down this smokin’ land? Well, it has briefly rained twice and both times we ran out and stood in the cooling waters. Refreshing. Joy. Innocence. However, the sun with its heat producing affection reminds us of what season we’re in.

Some times I succeed at ignoring the heat, perhaps because as the sweat pours out, I’m more focused on soaking as much of Niger up as I can. Niger is the salt that I crave. However, I’m privileged to sleep in an air conditioned room (when the power is on) and have clean water to drink, making it less difficult to endure. I wish I could say the same about the people beyond these walls I call my home, or those I see sleeping on the dirt road, or just one child out of many whose lack of clean water could prevent him from living to see the cooler season. There is this daily reminder that I can choose to ignore. But unlike ignoring the heat, I desire to actively remember it. This heart wrenching heaviness shares residency in my heart with joy from 2 kiddies who can’t resist playing with the hose as Etien tries to water the plants.

Until the raindrops come again...

We shall make our own...

All for One

2009-04-04T11:28:00.010-04:00

As much as I enjoyed working with the babies in Gueladio and watching the numbers on the scale increase every 2 weeks, my heart has grown for the big number of one(baby) in Koira Tegui. Is it because this 10 month old baby girl only weighed a little over 8 pounds? Is it because she’s been an orphan since her 4th day on earth? Perhaps it’s because she was the only child we saw that first day of assessment. Is it due to weekly visits, instead of every 2 weeks? Maybe it was reality enveloping me as my hands met her ribs, carrying her from her aunt’s hands to the baby scale. Or is because she got sick, lost weight and could’ve easily died? After accompanying her to a clinic for a malaria test and receiving the negative results, was it fear that she wouldn’t be admitted to a hospital in time a contribution to my higher level of concern for her? Is that why my heart is so attached?
Meet Rahina:

I began to parallel the desire for God to pursue one amidst the multitudes. He had Dave, myself and Dave’s dad (who was visiting) go assess and distribute plumpy’nut to what we thought would be many babies. There was a misunderstanding and there were no babies for us to see that day. Or so we thought. Then, in a group of children receiving lunch from the church, there was little Rahina.

All for one

We had thought, “well this is Africa, where communication sometimes just lacks and time is wasted.” However, this was anything but a waste of time. It was just in time. Our visit commenced the restoration of a little girl named Rahina. The Lord knew she was there and we’d be there too. He knew she needed help and we had the resources to do so! God saw her need and the boxes of plumpy’nut in my room. How would a severely malnourished body and a nutrient dense product meet? They met. We met. In all the world, why us 4? I’m thinking so that she would be well, we’d be used and most importantly, Jesus would be glorified. He’s definitely being glorified through that tiny person, named Rahina not to pump himself up, but to plump her up! Because he loves her. After Rahina spent more than a week in the hospital, free of charges, we reassessed her and she gained over 1.5 pounds! Her road to recovery is slowly being covered. Can't wait to see the destination He has for her.

There is another baby receiving plumpy’nut in Koira Tegui named Ibrahim. He started plumpy’nut a week after Rahina. He is 2 years old and weighs about 15 pounds and currently does not walk. He sure hates seeing Dave and myself, especially if we touch him (even to pray for him). This is most likely due to the shocking skin color of ours. But he sure loves the taste of what we bring him. We watched him eat plumpy’nut a couple of times and I can’t express how awesome it was. I could imagine his cells soaking all those nutrients up. His mom says he asks for more of this yummy peanut butter based goodness! He is gaining weight too. We’re praying for his development level to increase (ex.walking).

Meet Ibrahim:

In the few, intimacy enables depths of my heart to be explored and pierced. In the multitudes, more are treated but surely relationships aren't the same. I’m thankful God loves Rahina. For Him, guiding a bigger girl to change her address to another continent for 11 months is worth all the costs so that a 10 month old baby girl could be healed through the wonderful product known as plumpy’nut and prayer! Perhaps it would’ve been someone else's hands, or Dave's alone, but I’m sure glad it’s too late for that to happen and He allowed me to live here!

Jesus would leave His 99 safe sheep to look for 1 lost. All for one.

Full of Life

2009-03-04T16:41:00.005-05:00

Jesus said, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”
-John 10:10

I admit that since I said yes to Jesus’ invitation of salvation at the age of ten, there have been many times and seasons in my life where I have chosen other things besides the overflowing life He has purposed for me. As the source of life, He came with good intentions to give life, carried out through His death.

Blessed by the Impact Niamey mission team, I had revelation concerning the importance of Jesus’ purpose statement above. The team of over 30 people who differed in talents and roles as much as they did in ages and looks, chose the abundant life, Jesus for themselves and had intentions to offer the life source to poverty stricken, diseased uneducated and sin committing Nigeriens. Whether one resides in America, the land of plenty or in Niger, the land of little, every person has the need for life in Christ.
The focus of this mission was evangelism throughout the capital city. While much service, worship, prayer and building of relationships was accomplished, the most important aspect was the commitment to accept and follow Jesus. One day as we split into small groups to evangelize in the village of Zarmagandey, our group witnessed the choice of life as seven people heard about Jesus for the first time and took the initial step in following Him. The other groups experienced similar responses from thirsty people wanting to drink from the fountain of living water. My eyes filled with tears and my heart with gratitude and praise as we prayed with this young girl to know Jesus.

How full of life I was at that moment and those following. Little did I know that six more people would follow the first. Our Savior did not come to condemn but to save us, to give us life in Him. Life is not found in another.
As I ponder what my treasure is, where my heart’s focus is, where I’m choosing anything less than His life, I also think about how my decisions teach those seeking life around me.

The day before the team left, the Lord spoke to me about the verse below. The day after the team left, abundant life was confirmed.

“…but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength…” –Isaiah 40:31

The Lord has done great things.
My strength is renewed.
The joy of the Lord is my strength.
His joy in me is renewed.

What I thought impossible, God has accomplished. He healed my heart to trust and love again, despite my vows not to. He has shown me again his desire and ability to redeem and restore. Life has conquered death. My friend Jesus brought me all the way to Niger to ignite healing in my heart almost 3 years ago and today I am whole in Him and engaged to Jason Carter! It happened in Niger, much to my surprise. God is so intimate and faithful!

Don’t worry, I’m not leaving Niger just yet! This Friday we are going to assess and evaluate malnourished children in a different village called Koira Tegui (the village where the orphanage is located). If the children are severely malnourished, Koira Tegui will be the next Plumpy’Nut distribution site. Please pray for other potential neighborhoods within Niamey, as well for the babies in the previous village, Gueladio. May we choose the overflowing life in Christ, step by step. Merci!

Fruit

2009-02-02T13:35:00.003-05:00

“I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” –John 15:5

When 9 month old Nata Johansson cries for his momma (he’s a big momma’s boy) while in someone else’s arms, I think of an older tv show called Dinosaurs. The baby dinosaur yells “You not the momma” to others besides his mother. Silly as it sounds, it’s applicable and hilarious. I find myself saying that here in Niger when Nata cries. Is he thinking “you not the momma?” No counterfeit will do. Only Hope will suffice and she is known by her youngster. After all, she is the one who gives him nourishment.

Sometimes I think God is telling me, “you not the vine!”
I act like I’m the vine but I am a branch. There’s no way to be a vine. I can only remain IN the vine. I wonder who else attempts playing the vine’s role. Assuming the role of the vine only leads to defeat and failure. As a branch it is impossible to have life and be fruitful without our source of life, the true vine. So why am I not faithfully in the vine, as a branch? I can do nothing without the vine, Jesus. I can’t even distribute Plumpy’Nut to malnourished children without Him. Any fruit that I bear is because of the vine.

We went to Gueladio for Plumpy’Nut (PN) distribution on Sunday and after assessing 7 children, we left the village with gratitude. Guess how many packets of PN were distributed…Zero. None of the babies qualified for PN, therefore indicating that they are no longer severely malnourished! The six year old Saadou who I’ve mentioned before also did not receive PN on Sunday, but not because he’s healthy. He hasn’t been gaining weight for quite a while. We suspected worms and treated him accordingly but found out they aren’t the reason behind the malnourishment. Please keep praying for him.

There were some children who didn’t show up to the distribution but two weeks ago their assessments had improved tremendously. We gave children’s chewable vitamins to those who were old enough and will receive children's liquid vitamins tomorrow when the Impact mission team arrives! I will follow up with the children of Gueladio but am now consulting the Lord about which village we should distribute PN to next.

Finishing the PN distribution in Gueladio produced conflicting emotions. As I was saying goodbye to the mothers, children and the Pastor and his wife, I felt so thankful to the Lord for His provision, the privilege to work with these babies, for letting me live here in Niger, and most surprisingly, to see such beautiful fruit. Much fruit is produced from a seed, yet that sower is not guaranteed to see the fruit of his/her labor. The Lord has allowed me to see the fruition of others’ prayers, sacrifices and work that has made PN distribution and improvements in babies’ lives possible, but he also has let me taste the fruit produced only by remaining in Him. Because of the relationships made through the PN distribution, emotions of gratitude and joy were mixed with sadness, knowing that I wouldn’t be seeing these people every two weeks. But mostly, I’m thankful. His glory is displayed. Below is a picture of the Pastor in Gueladio with his wife and daughter.

Severely malnourished babies are healthier. Many blessings were prayed over the babies and their families by us here and those in the United States. Thank you for doing so.

May we bear lasting fruit.
Look what the Lord has done.
See what He will do…

Worth the Costs

2009-01-13T09:38:00.007-05:00

Happy New Year!

When exactly was my heart so grounded to a village by the name of Gueladio? Going there twice a month since October for church and plumpy’nut distribution perhaps is one culprit for the love growth I’ve recognized. Perhaps it’s the love of Christ that so compels.

The malnourished children in that village have gained more than weight. With each prayer, they’ve gained the truth of God as well as love as we become His hands and feet. Forecasting another two distributions in Gueladio, I know this privilege of seeing the preservation of life firsthand will continue in another village. But will the next village ever reach such depth of my heart? With every pound of weight gained by these babies, at least a ton of love has been deposited in me.

Pastor Lawali and his wife Ruth are included in the “ton of love” that has been added to my heart. Last week when we were distributing plumpy’nut, we witnessed the painful separation of father and daughter due to the Lord’s work. Ruth’s father and sister were visiting but had to return to their home 13 hours from hers. After a passionate and tear filled prayer, her father and sister rode with us back to the capital city. Hearing, watching and feeling the pain in their voices and eyes, the reality of sacrifice, even while residing in the same country, that is required when following Jesus was felt by all. The Lord called Lawali and Ruth to this village and I can’t imagine Gueladio without them, much less all those they’ve ministered to within. Yet it’s costly.

Driving back to our home, staring out into the sandy horizon, inwardly I was challenged by these questions:

-what sacrifices have you made?
-what sacrifices are you making right now?
-what sacrifices will be made as you obey the Lord in the future?

Remember the Lord wants our obedience, not sacrifice.

However, as I listed some sacrifices (not huge compared to many others) I’ve made in the past and currently, punches of unrest came while contemplating the third question. I’m not sure what the future will entail regarding this. The restless feeling settles as I trust in Him. Sometimes its easier to play it safe, in the security of what I think is ‘the known.’ How deceiving it is think that way. In retrospect, the most uncertain paths in my life thus far have unraveled and exploded into the most tangible and certain roads that I wouldn’t trade traveling down. God has made this concept a theme the last couple of weeks for us members of the Johansson household…

“Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy.” –Psalm 126

Much joy-Last Saturday I accompanied missionary Shelley and other missionary associates to Gueladio for their annual kids program. Upon arrival, I was asked to help Ruth with preparing lunch for about 150 children. I was delighted by the request but had no idea I’d enjoy spending time with her and other women from the village as I did. I began with cutting onions and tomatoes African style…with no cutting board. Technically, our hands were the cutting boards. Incase a cutting board is not available, chopped onions can still be consumed! While cooking, Ruth and I connected in a new way since usually when I distribute plumpy’nut, conversations of personal topics aren’t priority. We talked about our families, about our dreams, our struggles and God’s faithfulness to answer, even in bizarre ways.

Cooking and sitting with a few women of the village, who only spoke Fulfulde, I began to attempt speaking a few words of their language such as “what is your name.” It helps that Ruth speaks English. Complemented with laughs at my mispronunciations, they kept repeating the words until I finally got it. By far, this sleepover in Gueladio is one of my favorite experiences here in Niger. This different, delicious taste of life in the village prompts me to indulge in it more often.

Revelations and Reminders

2008-12-29T19:22:00.001-05:00

Niger eyes, what do they see?
Niger eyes, looking back at me.
Flickers of hope, escape the dungeon of despair,
pressured from within, paired with an outward gaze.
The flickers will find a friend in another's flame.
The flame of hope defined and magnified, Jesus Christ.

How intimate is an extended gaze. Not only is one's existence acknowledged, but many emotions can be expressed without words in this few second encounter.

Each time I make eye contact, I'm exposing another facet of our Creator and Savior. This responsibility is not one to take lightly. Sometimes I catch myself becoming too comfortable in my new home and do not value each passing person or opportunity to display the love of God through my eyes or smile. However, I'm not suggesting we plaster fake smiles on our faces constantly. I just realize here, where communication isn't always possible, that a smile can reveal much.

This display of Jesus also applies to our missionary team here. In the midst of conversing, giving, laughing, preparing, and potentially shedding tears, isn't it all for one purpose? Isn't it to encourage eachother's hearts toward the lover of our souls, to the Prince of Peace, while giving others an opportunity to know the Lord.

We have been involved in a lot the past two weeks and God's faithfulness has been shown. I'm going to highlight a few to share with you.

Plumpy'Nut News:
Provision-The Lord is faithful to take care of His children. In the village of Gueladio there are 9 children who have climbed out of the severely malnourished category. Are they still malnourished? Yes. The Lord is rehabilitating their health through a peanut butter based paste. I've started decreasing the rations of Plumpy'Nut to those who are no longer in the severely malnourished category.
There are two babies who are still severely malnourished. As their weights are barely changing every two weeks, we may have to stop distribution based on Plumpy'Nut's criteria. Please pray that the mothers will properly give their babies the nutritional supplement. Also, pray that the babies' bodies will digest and absorb the nutrients as purposed.
We are distributing children's vitamins, worm treatments and will follow up with these children's progress in Gueladio. We are praying and planning to go to another village to assess and help more children become healthier.

Thanks to God's provision through travelers on short term missions who have seen the children of Niger firsthand, we have adequate funds to continue distributing Plumpy'Nut in other villages. Thank you all for joining me in praying for these babies and mothers, AND for sharing your resources. None of us can fully know the impact it will make. Merci.

Au Revoir GLUTEN:
Through a series of hints and years of researching and praying, at last the Lord has clearly made known the reason for my unexplainable iron deficiency anemia. Maybe some think its odd for me to mention this on my missionary adventure in Niger. But let me tell you, it's something to rejoice about! And it's an adventure. Frustrating adventure too:)
So my body is allergic to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley and rye as well as all the foods containing even trace amounts. Since I've been consuming gluten everyday for years, and my intestinal wall lining called villi(they absorb nutrients) have become damaged, I'm unable to absorb iron and other minerals efficiently. This gluten thing isn't a disease I want to cling to, but I am extremely thankful to the Lord for giving me the knowledge and revelation, FINALLY!
And of all places to be completely sure about this, Niger is the the place He's healing my body, much like He started the healing process of my heart 2.5 years ago. I'll keep you updated about the gluten free lifestyle.

The Jo's have been super supportive. Dave helped make it possible for me to obtain millet flour which is gluten free. Monmouni, our day guard bought the millet, took it home to his wife to pick through and clean, took it to a mill (cleaned before processing the millet) and brought the flour to me. He surpassed his responsibilities and blessed me. I plan to make millet bread and millet pancakes tomorrow morning.

Celebrating Jesus' Birthday: On Christmas Eve we went to the orphanage with our Nigerien friend dressed as Santa. The children absolutely loved him! We gave out Christmas bags donated by the children's sponsors and each child took a picture with Santa. The funniest part was having Santa lead the children in worship. Imagine 50 plus children with gigantic smiles on their faces...that was our morning!

Christmas morning..."Happy to You, Happy to You..." little Sammy sings while the candles burn on a cake (this time a Niger style crown cake for Jesus-Daniel's tradition) before Dave reads the story of Jesus' birth, and Hope gives thanks to Him. Being the youngest of six children, I've always been the most excited about the family gathering, waking up super early, opening stockings, and just hanging out. However, this year without my family, I was blessed with another family...the Johanssons! Yep, having 2 kiddies around made Christmas so much more joyful. I'm usually the one waking everyone up (yeah, even at my old age) but this year Sammy came in my room and said, "KK, up!"

Even though I missed home during Christmas, the Lord showered me with love here. We ate delicious meals with our missionary team and French missionaries, I went shopping with Amina (a Nigerien friend of mine), had gift exchanges, and lounged around, like I would at home.

Also, I'm extremely thankful for skype because I was able to see my family. I hadn't seen my mom and dad since I've been here, so that was a HUGE blessing. Because of Jesus' birth, I know God and because of Him, I am here in Niger. Even on the mission field, it's easy to focus my eyes on things other than Jesus. But he seeks us even when we aren't faithful.

Sleeping Under the Stars:
The Johanssons and I went camping with their friends Beth, Steve and son Tim. We went to a village about 2 hours away from Niamey, where we live. This was my second camping experience in Niger, however it differed greatly. Camping brought many memories to my mind, mostly from when I was a little girl camping with my dad, to youth group camping, all the way to my adulthood camping trips. Sitting by the fire, staring at the grand sky of stars, eating, talking and sleeping on a hard ground while tossing and turning all night, waking up to the crisp Niger air, having less than ideal bathroom facilities and situations and exploring the land of wilderness all reminded me of God.
I could write an entire blog on these two days alone but here's the short version...
Hope sang Beautifully at church on Sunday. We took a walk, graciously guided by the pastor's son named Samuel. I couldn't stop seeing the Lord's majesty in the design and size of the baobab and other trees.
On the way out of the village, Hope pointed out one tree with three trunks, representing the trinity. Those of you on the Jerni retreat may recall similar words from my share time. He is so faithful to remind me of previous encounters and defining moments where my heart connected to His. Likewise, looking at the stars was another reminder of His goodness, provision, involvement and desire for us to really know Him.

We are in Niamey for a couple of days and then off to the game park known as PARK W! Our missionary team is going, so I'm sure we'll have lots of fun. We'll be ringing in the new year in the park. Then on Sunday we're going back to Gueladio for reassessment of the children on Plumpy'Nut.

The Lord is faithful and loves reminding us. If you're like me you need a reminder or two every now and then.
Happy New Year!

Mighty to Save

2008-12-16T14:33:00.005-05:00

The Lord your God is with you,
He is mighty to save.
He will take great delight in you,
He will quiet you with his love,
He will rejoice over you with singing.
–Zephaniah 3:17

Every time we go to Gueladio for reassessment of the children and distribution of plumpy’nut, my eyes fall on the words above as soon as my notebook is opened. I have written this promise in the front of the notebook as a reminder. I don’t fear I’ll forget this promise but sometimes I get distracted and don’t fully believe His promises to be with us, to save, to delight in us, to quiet us with his love, and to rejoice over us. It’s a lot to digest! I can sing the song “He is Mighty to Save” all day but practically, in real life, do I truly believe this? Do I believe this for the children?

When children’s weights are increasing, I eagerly believe the Lord’s promise to save His children and therefore give Him the glory for his faithfulness. However, difficultly arises when a baby does not gain weight, due to sickness. What is even worse is that a baby lost the weight that he had gained. After I weighed him, feeling discouraged and helpless, I glanced at the verse in the front of my notebook. Yes, He is mighty to save. Even though it appears otherwise, the Lord is with this baby and his wasting body. We prayed for him and will check on him this Sunday. Please pray with us. With the intention to bring glory to the Lord and not dwell on the negative, I can’t disregard that the other babies are gaining weight! There’s much to be thankful for but that one baby clenched my heart. I called my sister hours after we returned from Gueladio and expressed to her with tears the best way I could using these words, “I’m not seeing malnourished babies on tv from afar… they’re in my arms.” I hope my honestly doesn’t discourage anyone. The truth is that the Lord is with me and His desire to heal these children is greater than mine.

Preceding the plumpy’nut distribution, Hope and I told the story of Samuel to about 20 children at church, in FRENCH! We translated the story to French in advance, had colorful visual aids (thanks to Hope’s artistic abilities), and had Dave pretend to be God, calling “Samuel, Samuel.” I was slightly nervous before the Bible lesson because I had to speak in French, and I’m more of a one on one person. However, as soon as I was standing in front of the children, scanning the room, periodically catching their eyes and glimpses of smiles, any feelings of anxiety fled and were replaced by joy and purpose. Leaving Gueladio, I had many emotions and thoughts. Oh the contrast that can exist in them.

Living in Niger still seems surreal most days. How blessed I am for my feet to touch the sand of such a land every day, see the African sunset, hear the sounds of French, Djerma and Houssa languages, take taxis or walks with Amina, share everyday life with the Johanssons, worship God with Nigeriens, and just exist here!

Probably one of the most surreal times I’ve experienced was this weekend when my little girl from the orphanage, named Kadidja came over and spent the night with us. Upon arrival, she was shy and scared of the Johanssons’ dog, and rightly so with a bark like his. We made Christmas sugar cookies, took a walk to buy eggs, colored, looked at pictures, ate a delicious peanut chicken and rice dinner, played djembes and sang, went out for ice cream, went to the market to buy supplies for Amina to braid Kadidja’s hair, watched Toy Story in French and then went to sleep.

The next morning Kadidja took a warm shower, which may have been the first time for her (you should’ve seen the smile that appeared when I let her feel the temperature). Hope made us pancakes and eggs for breakfast and off to church we went. After church we ate at a restaurant and came home to rest before taking her back home to the orphanage. Seem overwhelming? I think it may have been for this gentle spirited, polite nine year old who has never been inside a white person’s house, or been so lavished with food. While she was here, I was very content yet I couldn’t fully absorb her presence. Especially when she was sleeping in my room with me, I was thanking the Lord and thinking, is she really here in my room? If only I could read her mind in regards to her experience with us. We plan to have her and a friend over in the future. I wish you all could meet her but incase that doesn’t happen, here is a photo of beautiful Kadidja.

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas. The three missionary families have Christmas trees in their homes, accompanied by stockings, Christmas music and the aroma of freshly baked cookies (well some days). At our house, we’ve spent down time making ornaments out of paper, sewing letters on our stockings, baking cookies, dancing to the rhythm of seasonal tunes. My two year old friend, Sammy Pie as I call him these days has made these activities much more enjoyable, in particular the dancing! The decorations and preparations clearly show it is that time of year, but the temperature is enough to fool me. To help you understand, Dave said the temperature the other day was 100 degrees. I'm excited to spend another Christmas in Niger. In December 2006 I came with a team and assisted missionaries Rodrigo and Juanita when they lived 12 hours North of Niamey, in Agadez. One thing I don't miss about home is the commercialism before and during the Christmas season. It's easier here to focus on the birth of Jesus and his saving grace. The Lord is Mighty to Save!

Plumpy'Nut Progress

2008-11-25T10:43:00.010-05:00

Major Gains...
*2-4 pounds within 2 weeks* Seriously? While I was educating people about nutrition in America, the mentioning of weight gain rarely warranted a celebration. However, when children in Niger, Africa are dying due to severe malnutrition, any increase in weight reflects improvements in health and chances of survival. When this happens, a celebration is definitely deserved. Since the initial assessment of the children and distribution of Plumpy’Nut in the village of Gueladio, two weeks have passed.

Weigh-Time...
Returning to Gueladio to re-weigh the children excited me but part of me was nervous that the parents may not have followed instructions, causing the children's weight to be unaffected. It was the moment of truth. Would this baby’s health benefit from packets of a peanut butter like paste? Could something so simple save this life? I placed the child on the scale and intensely but quickly watched the needle until all movement was stilled(most babies hate the scale), all while hoping this number would indicate a step on the healing road. With anticipation I recorded his weight, compared it to his initial weight and SMILED, realizing the answer…yes! Plumpy’Nut does work. This baby has already benefited, and it has only been 2 weeks. He is not the only one. Dave, a missionary mentioned “I had no idea this would be so rewarding.” And I agree.

Don’t despise small beginnings…
We re-weighed the 11 babies who were severely malnourished, qualifying for Plumpy’Nut. All, except two of the children gained between 1-4 pounds in just two weeks. This is incredible! A couple of praiseworthy facts can be inferred by the increase in weight. Firstly, the babies are becoming healthier! Secondly, the mothers are properly giving their children the packets of Plumpy’Nut and are not consuming the product themselves or letting any other children do so. The mothers also followed the instructions to bring back their empty Plumpy’Nut packets and their patient cards. We were very impressed.

Heart struggle...
There were 2 babies that did not gain weight, unfortunately. One’s mother stopped giving it to her child because he was vomiting but we are readjusting the amount so his body will be more inclined to handle it. The other mother claimed to give her baby the Plumpy’Nut, yet it’s highly unlikely because there was no change in weight. That was hard on the heart. I’m excited about the progress in the other children though. We also assessed more children and added a few to our Plumpy’Nut treatment list. The others who didn’t meet the requirements for Plumpy’Nut received multivitamins.

Although we didn’t have a short term mission team here helping this week, the missionary team worked together, by weighing, measuring, distributing and praying.
A missionary Hope, who helped with the Plumpy’Nut clinic said “the miracle of Plumpy’Nut” and she’s right, this product’s ability to restore the nutritional integrity of the children is a miracle.
In poverty stricken lands, finding water alone is hard but trying to find clean water is nearly impossible. Some therapeutic formulas to treat malnutrition require the recipients to add water before consuming the product, which can often lead to sickness.
Plumpy’Nut is a ready to use therapeutic formula which doesn’t require any preparations besides opening the foil packet (and eating).

It breaks my heart that children are in this malnourished state to begin with, however my heart is even more thankful that the Lord is using Plumpy’Nut to heal his children. And knowing that He is capable of healing them instantly, I wonder why, yet appreciate that he uses other avenues of healing and has privileged us, (his other children) to be part of that healing process. We will go back in 2 weeks to reassess the children. Pray that they’d continue to be restored, that we'd have wisdom and that they’d know the love of Christ through this nutrition project.

“He upholds the cause of the oppressed and gives food to the hungry.” –Psalm 146:7

Full of thanks...

Us AG missionaries will be having Thanksgiving together at the Teagues. I’m continuing my family’s tradition of running a 5k ‘turkey trot’ on Thanksgiving morning. Hope and Daniel have agreed to join me thus far. Instead of a chili, slightly rainy and crowded race, we’ll have the company of a few people and the bright sun, while covered with its warm effects. I’m ready to run. Oh, and am so thankful!

Filling up on Plumpy'Nut

2008-11-14T08:58:00.011-05:00

Last Thursday the vision casting team arrived in Niger. With them arrived a baby scale, a toddler/adult scale and many hands to help. What else do we need? Plumpy'Nut and malnourished children! The Plumpy'Nut was purchased here, thanks to donors in the United States. Children are never a problem to find in Niger.
Without much time to adjust, the following morning the team accompanied us on the hour car ride to the village of Gueladio. There, greeted by many women and children, we proceeded to set up our “clinic” in the church to see an estimated amount of 50 children. We established three stations and assigned team members and missionaries to each of them. I was right in the middle...

Pray 'em up:
Upon entry into the church, the children and mothers were prayed for by a group of team members. Even though I was at the measuring station, I found myself gazing at this group because I realized the eternal importance of each word spoken.

Measure 'em up:
After investing spiritually into these lives, the next group welcomed each child to the weighing station. There, using the donated scales and tape to measure weight and height, the need for Plumpy'Nut was determined, as well as the amount to distribute. Since Plumpy'Nut is very concentrated, children must be severely malnourished to receive rations.

Fill 'em up:
Lastly, the children and mothers were directed to the distribution group, where they received a two week supply of Plumpy'Nut if eligible, or children's multivitamins if they were classified as mildly malnourished. This station also counseled the mothers on how to properly use the product.

What a team effort the day with Plumpy'Nut was! This was the first of many distributions to come. I am very thankful for the help, support and love this vision casting team provided. I know God blessed each team member for their service but he also blessed me as I watched them.

Our missionary team in Niger will return to Gueladio in one week to reweigh and remeasure the children to see improvements. If consuming the Plumpy'Nut properly, we should see an increase in weight and will distribute another two week supply to the child. If not, we have to assume the child was not given the supplement appropriately and therefore the child will not receive another two week supply. If this happens, it will break my heart but I am required to follow protocol with these concentrated packets of peanut butter, vitamins, minerals, powdered milk, powdered sugar and vegetable oil.

These simple ingredients save children's lives! Also Plumpy'Nut is inexpensive, only costing 50 cents per packet. If you'd like to contribute to the Plumpy'Nut/Nutrition Project, you can do so through The LINK, making your donations tax deductible. Please contact them at contact@linkniger.com.

Please pray for open doors in villages to distribute Plumpy'Nut, funds to be able to do so, wisdom in treating the children, and for these children to be healed!

While the vision casting team was here, God blessed Nigeriens, missionaries and team members. He is excellent at making each person feel special. He brings people here for different reasons and each experience is unique. With each team, He brings love through more hugs, smiles and new eyes.
“The Lord is my shepherd. I have everything I need.” Psalm 23:1

Check out this 60 Minutes video about Plumpy'Nut below:

http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2007/10/19/60minutes/main3386661.shtml

From His Hands to Theirs

2008-10-23T18:22:00.012-04:00

The Lord is faithful to all his promises and loving toward all he has made. The Lord upholds all those who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down. The eyes of all look to you, and you give them their food at the proper time. You open your hand and satisfy the desires of every living thing. (Psalm 145:13b-16)

Glance outside of these walls, and one will see the city of poverty inhabited by most people. Explore beyond this city and one will find little but impoverished people saturating the land with their needs. With the medical team a few weeks ago, my eyes saw needs that my ears had only heard about, my mind could not fully grasp and my heart could not understand. Nigeriens, with the chance to bring forth their physical needs, waited for hours (some the whole day) to be seen by the medical team. For days doctors, nurses, translators and other volunteers were the hands of God, satisfying the needs of His created children.

Thankfully medications were donated and a pharmacy was set up at the clinic. Although I ran around taking pictures, attempting to explain medications to patients in French (with the help of translators), and praying for people, most of my time was spent in the pharmacy preparing medication for the patients. Complaints of easily treatable ailments would not constitute for a doctors visit in the U.S, however the Nigeriens sought the care and wisdom of those sent to help them. More serious cases of malaria, dehydration, worms, boils, and other diseases of the skin were seen and appropriately treated.

Two days in a row the team traveled to a village about one hour away and set up a clinic. Hundreds of people gathered to see a doctor. The team leader asked if I’d continue giving worm treatments (one chewable tablet) to the waiting women. With each transfer, I looked directly into their eyes, praying that they’d know the Savior and their bodies would be well. For me, it’s easy to look at the multitude of people and have compassion but not necessarily see the crowd as individual lives, however when I distributed the worm treatments, there was no way to escape the truth of each life’s importance. Then I had to trust the Lord, who knows each need, to intervene.

Donors from the U.S also blessed the people here with the purchase of a peanut butter based nutrition supplement called Plumpy’Nut. It was distributed to malnourished children at the clinics. Since it is inexpensive, effective in rehabilitating children’s health by providing necessary nutrients, and accessible, I will be distributing it in different villages, after assessing the needs. There will be opportunities to donate to this project in the near future. I hope that it will be an ongoing project to help malnourished children in their critical years of growth. I pray that donors away from the field and my hands on the field will represent and display God’s provision for each person whom he loves.

All that happened during this medical mission can’t be summarized accurately, but as my first experience working with a medical team, I am thankful for all those who sacrificed time and money to serve the people of Niger. I was blessed not only by their acts of love, but the time spent with them personally. Below is a picture of me and my other mom Debbie who was part of the medical team:)

We said our goodbyes to the medical team and welcomed the newest missionary Daniel. He is also the newest member of our French class which is going well, although our 2 hours a day sessions have turned into 4 hours a day, with an increase in homework:) Needless to say, I’ve been tired, but learning the language is worth feeling like my head is going to explode!

All of us AG missionaries took a few days off and went to Gao, Mali to rest, hang out and see the beauty of the land. I didn’t have plans to travel to other countries while in Niger, but the opportunity arose and I sure enjoyed it. We were even able to visit the pastor and his family and partake in a delicious African meal provided by them. We visited an archaeological dig, the tomb of Askia, the Prime Meridian, and after a relaxing canoe ride, we ventured on the pink sand dunes! The exploration of the sand dunes was my favorite. I think heaven will be similar to its landscape. Within hours, the sight of poverty and decay was replaced with beauty and life. Oh the contrast. Woven in all is our loving Father.
In two weeks another mission team will arrive in Niger for a week and two months will pass before another team comes. Having people visit rekindles the ‘newness’ of the people and environment that can be dulled, even after only a few months of living here.

It’s difficult to unravel the sovereignty of God and suffering. I don’t claim to understand but I am confident that Jesus loves the people in this impoverished state and he will meet their needs. I meant to tell you that the night the medical team arrived (September 25th), Amina who is our house helper had her baby! Her name is Esther. Hope, Dave and I walked to the clinic to see the family fifteen minutes after her birth. Again, MERCI (thank you) for your support! Don’t forget to check out my ‘photos’ link to the right.

Wanna Take a Walk?

2008-09-22T15:25:00.006-04:00

I know, I know. I’ve slacked with the blog. It’s hard to believe a whole month has passed since the last post. As the days have turned to weeks, the moments with descriptive possibility now seem like a lump of generalizations. Combing through my thoughts and emotions is exhausting, but I desire for you to walk the African road with me, even if only a few steps are taken. I am thankful for those of you who are by my side, tasting the sweet bitterness that comes with life, here and there. Grab your shoes, flip flops, or none if bare feet are preferred (like myself), and lets explore the beauty of God through His children. Don’t let the mud puddles distract you from the people walking with or around us.

Walking down...

…Reunion Road: There have been many reunions on Niger soil in the last month, causing me to think I’m in a dream. Two weeks ago, the missionaries I’ve worked with on my previous three short term missions moved back! Last summer I remained in Niger for a few days after they left to go home. Saying goodbye at the airport and then welcoming them back a year later, now living here was an incredible feeling. The realization of how much you really miss people occurs when you see them again. In Rodrigo and Juanita’s arrival, I was reminded again of God’s faithfulness to provide everything needed to move here. This precious couple has been such a big piece of that puzzle called my heart.

Two days later, another reunion took place at the airport. The LINK vision casting team blessed us with their presence for a week. The team members consisted of people from Georgia, Virginia and California. The ones I knew well filled me with more love through hugs (Azie gave me the best hug upon arrival), smiles and encouragement as soon as they became visible through the airport window. And the people I didn’t know became my friends. What a feeling to welcome people to my
home - first timers and others who have been here years before I even thought about Niger. Although their hearts are always here, physically being in Niger with me meant more than I could express to them.
My feet found the mud puddles, amidst the joy of having friends visiting from America. I was sick for most of their trip. However, since Mike and Debbie’s time here was prolonged, I was able to laugh a lot, eat Nigerien street meat, have another café au lait drinking buddy, discuss soap and skin preservation, communicate and love them without the weight of sickness.

We have a few days to recuperate from all that greatness before the medical mission team arrives on Thursday. Again, I know some team members very well and am anticipating an amazing display of God’s heart toward the Nigeriens through these doctors and nurses. Not only am I looking forward to having the medical team here, but also can't wait to help in the village clinics. We’re also going to distribute a peanut butter based nutritional supplement for developing countries, known as "plumpynut." I'm excited about one of my mothers coming to Niger as well as our new addition to the missionary team - my friend Daniel is moving here in a few days!

…Similarity Street: Children of Niger are similar to children in the United States. Looking beyond the cultural and social differences, children really don’t differ in their preferences, especially in hobbies and toys. Debbie and I went to the orphanage a few days ago and played with the children for a couple of hours. During our time there, amusing questions were asked by a little girl. At one point she even pointed at moles on my arm and asked why I had them and her black skin did not. At a previous visit to the orphanage, Hope and I asked a few children ‘getting to know you’ questions. Most of the girls expressed that when they grow up they want to be hair braiders. So back to the visit with Debbie...I asked Kadidja (an excellent braider of hair) who is 8 years old to braid my hair. Disbelief filled her face, quickly followed by a bright smile after she realized I was serious. Below is a glimpse of what happened next. The outcome: I left with my hair unbraided. I didn’t have rubber bands and my hair is too much like a white person's hair. But the attempt was a blast!

…Language Lane: Today Hope and I had our first day of French lessons with a very good teacher. We will have 2 hour sessions in the morning Monday-Friday, along with practice throughout the day. Of course, Hope is way ahead and is patient in helping me (especially with pronunciation). We are on our way down the unknown lane of language.

This walk has been fairly short in comparison to all the ground I’d like to cover with you. If I had to pick one statement about God that has been displayed this past month, it’d be this; He is faithful.
I’m loving it here, but missing yall!

Life's a Dance You Learn as You Go

2008-08-23T11:37:00.005-04:00

Little ones, to Him belong. They are weak, but He is strong. The simply complex life of having little ones in the house reminds me of God's ability to take care of us, His children. I'm settled in at my new home and know I'm exactly where I should be. Sam's declaration of “MomMa!” and Nathaniel's realization of his voice sounds like home.

Speaking of home, the construction team returned from a village where they built a church. Even though I didn't know the 12 men from Texas, it was great to spend a few days with them before they headed back to the U.S. We listened to their stories from the trip and were amazed at God's timing and placement of people. I was blessed to hear a few of the guys sing some tunes from their “time” and that familiar sound took me back to my roots-country, southern gospel and bluegrass. I sat on the steps of the bible school, with my head towards the blue sky, not able to take my eyes off the leaves swaying in the African breeze, while I listened to the sound of music—soothing.

I went to a church with some of the team members the other night. I hadn't been there since my first trip to Niger, two years ago. Although the congregation was very small, I enjoyed being with the Africans and one of the ladies gave me a hug. Those of you who know my need for hugs understand how happy it makes me when I can hug an African woman, my friend and housemate Hope, and her babies. God is faithful to provide the necessities and also those unique things that make us smile.

The French language.....I am studying everyday and slightly improving on listening comprehension. My speaking ability is, well not so good. Last night after the team left, I went to the kitchen to talk with Halima and Amina (africans who are about my age), and Hope joined us. Then Amina said in French, “Krystal needs to learn French fast, so then us four friends can talk. I feel bad because she can't understand.” It's true. I can't wait until I can actually speak to them like I would my best friend at home. Life is relationships. Yesterday the team went to the orphanage and Hope, Shelley and I stayed home to make pecan pies for the team's last dinner. Yeah, I was disappointed about not seeing the children at the orphanage but I was willing to help a little with dinner prep. Then I received a phone call. It was Kadidja, a little girl from the orphanage. She spoke to me in French, and I couldn't believe she was calling me! Dave then told me she asked why I wasn't there with the team and wanted to see me. So, he let her call me and told her I'd be there within 2 weeks to see her. A precious little child calls me her mama. Umm, so yeah that pretty much made my day.

This week we walked to the little market by our house, watched the various animals roam, ate yogurt out of a bag, absorbed the life outside of our home's walls, and I still can't wrap my mind around that fact that I live in Africa. Hope and Dave told me to pick out dinner tonight. I decided to have an African dish, called ignam, which can be prepared as a mush (with sauce), boiled, or fried like fries. I'm excited because I've never had this dish and want to eat like the Africans. We're also having bread with a spicy dip made from fresh peppers.

I have much to rejoice about but time here has also been challenging in thought, emotion, faith and prayer. Daily, glimpses of God's restoring power are visible though. Below are poems I wrote on two different days.

Niger Rain
Niger rain,
my heart is at rest.
Niger rain,
my eyes gaze
as my mind considers,
Niger rain,
Who has no shelter?
Who has to patch their mud homes?
Who has buckets for the leaks?
Dirt roads become rivers.
Niger rain,
Rain of righteousness,
wash away the sin.
Niger rain,
Quenching the thirsty ground.
Cooling the hot air.
Silencing me,
to hear Him in the Niger rain.

Perception
As it seems you are absent,
your children call out for you.
As it seems you are not for us,
or the people we want to love in this desert.
Where is our helper?
Purify the church, we pray.
Are we willing to endure the process?
As it seems, you are not just.
Poverty, disease, and spiritual drought
leave me asking many questions.
Creator of all.
As it seems, our attempts are futile.
Sacrifices in vain.
As it seems, purposeless.

Perception is NOT truth.
You are here.
By your children's side, you are.
You are our helper.
Sustain us to endure the purification.
You are just.
Feed, heal, and pour out your living water.
You are our creator.
You prompt us to do good works,
that are eternal.
Full of purpose.

As it seems, lies can overwhelm.
But the Spirit of truth whispers,
You aren't alone. I am with you.
I am aware and am not shocked.
I have a plan. Keep trusting.
Accusations will not last.

Simply Life

2008-08-13T14:18:00.005-04:00

Another 10 days have passed (are you recognizing a pattern?), and again I struggle with conveying all that is in my heart, all that I'm seeing and all that I'm learning. I'm learning that I know little.

Adolescent Camp: Ages 13-17. Although similar to kids camp in activities of singing, dancing, teachings and doing crafts, this camp differed in its level of maintenance. This was mostly due to their ages. The teachings were much deeper. Actually, the teachings were very encouraging to us “adults” as well.

Many of the pastors of churches came to assist and join the children in this week- long camp. They, along with many women served as camp counselors. Whether the men preached or led games, one thing was clear; they love the children and they love God. It's amazing how God reveals His heart through children. One morning I was worshiping with 100 African children and a few adults, and for those moments I desired to be no other place in the world.

I've forgotten some things but those of you who know me well shouldn't be surprised. During worship one day, I didn't recognize a song in English. I was singing along but assumed it was French until Beki informed me it was my native language. I forget that I'm white a lot. We saw a white man walking down the street, and we said, “whoa look at that white person,” like we aren't white:) I forget that people watch what I do, and laugh at me when I imitate the children's request to answer a question or receive a gift; they say “Moi, moi!” while snapping their fingers.

For a few days, we ate lunch at camp with the Nigeriens. I really enjoyed eating what the people here typically eat. There's something special about eating with people. The rice and beans, or rice and sauce (oil and onions) were more delicious than they sound, especially with the hot spices! The pastors were so generous to us. They made sure we had clean dishes, clean water and plenty to eat. We also played sand volleyball (obviously) with the children and counselors. Playing volleyball in a skirt was a first for me, but it can be done!

Adolescent camp ended with children testifying what God had done in their lives that week at camp, which included physical healing, cessation of nightmares and knowing Jesus. I felt so privileged to see God working in these children's lives. After camp, we spent a lot of time reorganizing the materials and packing them away for next year.

The other day I helped Halima prepare lunch. She made tortillas from scratch, along with homemade cookies. I had a blast helping her, speaking french words to her (not even sentences), sweating and learning from her great cooking skills.

Life's pace here is much slower than the one I'm familiar with but we have been busy. A construction team from Texas arrived last night. They will leave in the morning to build a tabernacle in a village 6 hours away. During the ten days they'll be gone, us ladies will stick together!

New Home: I moved out of one missionary house to another and Beki went back to the U.S:( Getting to know the missionary's girls has been great. They remind me of my sister Rachel and myself years ago. I can't wait until they find out that their sister will be their best friend. The other day I moved to Hope and Dave's house! I unpacked yesterday and am almost all settled in, minus a couple of items to hang on the crazy walls here ( I need help from Dave). I have a huge closet, a big bed, and blue walls (bearable walls, unlike at my old job:) Hope is helping me with my French skills and is also my coffee buddy. I had coffee today for the first time in about a month. My tolerance isn't as high anymore though, but it tasted so good and was worth the feeling that I was going to jump out of my skin. The person who donated this coffee maker should know how much its appreciated. Having a cup of coffee with a friend brings me comfort and joy. Not only does coffee do such things, but living with two precious little boys, Sam and Nathaniel and their parents has been such a blessing. I feel my heart expanding already, even after 2 days.

Time to Transition

2008-08-03T17:30:00.008-04:00

I officially live in Niger!
A week has passed since we said goodbye to the kids at camp and almost a week has passed since the team left. Camp was full of singing and dancing (worshiping), teachings about Jesus, praying, games, crafts, and sports. The team helped with the activities and had fun doing so. When we prayed with and for the children, I thought, “this is why I'm here, to lay my hand on a child and speak God's heart.” Last Sunday the team members were excited to go to a special church service at the orphanage. We spent the day there playing with the children, eating lunch and then my favorite: Riding camels with the orphans! Hearing the children giggle and seeing them smile while hanging onto the saddle tightly made camel riding extraordinary. Solo camel rides just don't compare.

After adventures of travel delays, the July Kids Camp team members finally arrived back home. I became Beki's roommate at the Teague's house. We spent some time organizing material for the week long Adolescent Camp that begins tomorrow night. We've also had time to rest up before this next camp. Dinner time is when missionaries Brent and Shelley tell great stories. These times are informative, entertaining and soothing to the heart. I'm beginning to experience some differences in 'short mission team' life and 'missionary' life. I'm trying to learn the Nigerien culture as well. I hear this takes a while. God has blessed me with one of my buddies, Beki who has helped tremendously during this transition. We've explored and experienced Niger in new ways these last few days. For example, we walked to church this morning! Yeah, I'm getting my feet dirty. The thing is, it felt great to walk comfortably in the place I call home. Instead of gazing at life in Niamey through a windshield or truck window, we were part of it. Even though it takes time to adjust, especially emotionally, its amazing how quickly I've adapted to my physical environment. Sand is a way of life here:)

Yesterday, we saw a rainbow! They don't appear often here in Niger, so seeing this was absolutely refreshing. God is faithful in His promises, including sustaining and refreshing His children. He is the Good Shepherd.

He's even provided abundant food for me. Since I've been in Niger, delicious mango has been delightfully ingested by me everyday except one. Halima, who cooks for the missionary family, made us a yogurt and millet mixture called “degue.” Think bubble tea, or tapioca pudding, but even better! I could eat degue and mangos all day, every day.

I'm excited for Adolescent Camp this coming week. After camp, Beki leaves to go back to school in the U.S and I'll be moving into another missionary's house.
I need Jesus' strength every single day, especially in learning French!
Please keep praying.

Happy Birthday Mom & Happy Anniversary Hope & Dave!

On Niger Sand

2008-07-23T11:11:00.010-04:00

BONJOUR! I say this word a lot and love the sound of it, even if my accent gives my previous residency away. I've been in Niger for one week! Whoa, this is my new home. Thanks to those of you who God worked through to make this possible. For two years I have been praying about this move to Niger. Praying and waiting. Praying and listening. Praying and doubting. Praying and growing. Praying and failing. Praying and loving. Praying and preparing. Praying and trusting. Praying and Him providing! No more excuses, no more hesitation, no more fear. I have followed my friend, Jesus to Niger, Africa. To you special people back home, “I'm carrying your love with me."

Kids Camp Mission July 08:

Benjamin and I are leading 12 other team members here in Niger to assist the missionaries with the annual, week long kids camp. There are 200 children, aged 7-12. Each of the team members will assist as counselors for the children. We've been helping the missionaries prepare for the kids camp by practicing puppets and skits, organizing game prizes, setting up equipment and moving desks. We also attended two church services in the last 3 days. Team member Andrew gave his testimony at the Friday night church service. His testimony related perfectly with the previous sermon about being Andrews from the Bible. Andrews are not in the forefront, yet they too lead many to Jesus. It was very appropriate to have an Andrew speak (no one knew this previous sermon topic). Dennis spoke on Friday and Sunday services. After church Friday, we experienced God's heart of love and provision. Dennis brought a laptop computer with him to Niger with no clue why he was bringing it. God revealed that a pastor needed a laptop. When the laptop was given to this pastor, we found out that he had been praying for FOUR YEARS for a laptop but never asked for one. Incredible. God knew his need and desire for a computer and provided one.

An adventure: Riding in a canoe on the Niger River, we spotted about 7 hippos. Actually, our canoes resided about 80 ft from the baby hippos, and about 150 ft from the HUGE hippos. No worries, because everyone in the three canoes survived:) The Niger River and surrounding landscape was beautiful and we captured some amazing sunset pictures from the canoes. Oh yeah, and I've never seen Niger so "green."

I've enjoyed all those who are working as part of our team, including my friends Beki and Brookley who have been here in Niger for most of the summer. The missionaries have been a blast to work with and I'm excited to serve with them this next year. The awe of being here overwhelms me when I least expect it and all I can do is say “merci” to God for bringing me here.

Support Letter

2008-05-13T10:38:00.007-04:00

Niger, Piece by Piece