Blogger's note: I have neglected my blog the past few weeks, partly because Brett and April are in the U.S. on furlough. I know when I go to blogs I am following, it is disappointing when it has not been update recently. Now I'm guilty! Sorry, I will try to make posts more often.
The team members came to Brett and April's to celebrate Corban's first birthday today. Joy and I were able to maintain our tradition of never missing a first birthday. This was definitely the farthest we have ever come for one! After a craft and gift opening, we got down to the serious business of cake eating. Corban carried on the Emerson family tradition VERY WELL -- he made a massive mess with chocolate cake all over himself. Great fun!!
By now, it's time "chill out" which is a very ironic expression here in Togo. Some (like Joy) had a little siesta. After a drive around Kara, we were off to the Millers for dinner. The Kennells just arrived in Kara so they are staying with the Millers for now ... let's see, that's eight adults and 8 children. It was a great time of fellowship. The team members are very welcoming and generous with their love and kindness. We have felt like members of the team because of the way they have included us so fully.
Observations
Today we were able to present Antoinette (the houseworker) and Erique (the day guard and yard man) with gifts -- 2 bags of rice and an old suitcase from Goodwill that we were leaving behind. Brett assured us that they would like them, and he was right. Both of them were very appreciative. Their faces lit up, and we truly felt the blessing of giving to others. Our gift to them turned out to be a gift to us also. Erique was quite excited about the suitcase. He told us he would use in when he comes to America!
Did I mention it's hot here? The need for an afternoon siesta is obvious. The heat simply drains one's energy. Brett and April have A/C in two rooms, but they rarely use it because it is so expensive. Their electric bill is more than their rent. Nashville gets pretty hot in the summer, but there is relief with A/C. Not here -- almost nothing is air conditioned. A/C -- another of those things we take for granted. Here in Togo it is really and truly a luxury.
Speaking of electricity: the power has gone out at least once a day while we have been here. It's not always for a long time, and Brett has a gas-powered generator. Of course, gas is something like $6 a gallon, so that can get expensive also.
Interesting note: Today Brett had to explain to Erique about furnaces -- it was a total surprise to him. That's life 300 miles north of the equator.
Good night!
I'm really delighted to celebrate my first birthday.
Mommy helps unwrap gifts -- looks like fun.
Cake in the face --an Emerson family tradition!
Papa and Corban.
April and her boys!
Joy and I with Erique and his family.
Joy and I with Erique and his family.
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