Catching Up

So much has happened in the last 2 months I’m afraid this might be a News Update rather than many reflections. My trip to the US was good – uneventful except for seeing LOTS of good friends, being overwhelmed by the crowds in Atlanta, and making some new and good connections. It was especially nice to see Cristy’s family and participate in the “Big Surprise” on the first Sabbath (if you missed it you can watch here). Cristy flew in just for a week and surprised her parents on the main stage on Sabbath afternoon! It was much anticipated and after all of the arrangements I felt like we were part of a top secret operation! The point was to make an impact on the role that family plays for those who are serving as missionaries and to make an impression for missions to those who saw it. Also to generate interest in opportunities out there for those who might be interested. Everything turned out perfectly and her parents had no idea! Unfortunately her trip was too short and she had to leave Monday night to head back to Malawi.

One of the exciting parts of the GC was participating in the “Impact Atlanta” meetings and service opportunities. One of the days we were part of a press conference and collect signatures in the park for the “EndItNow” Campaign. This was especially meaningful to me because of the work that I put into an awareness day here in Malawi. I was also able to hand deliver the 349 signatures from Malawi to Charles Sandefur, President of ADRA. By the end of the GC I think they were close to 500,000 signatures!

Although I really wanted to participate in all of the “impactAtlanta” events I wasn’t able to. I felt torn between being at the Loma Linda booth talking about Malamulo and AHI, volunteering and being involved in the young adult meetings/service, but also just found myself extraordinarily WEARY. It was a strange experience since I’m always #1 to volunteer for everything and to be at the center of these events but I felt like I was on a different planet and somehow didn’t have the energy and ability to invest in that. My friend, Allan, who organized everything was super understanding (for which I really thank him) but I still don’t understand all of the reasons.

After the 12 days in Atlanta I flew out to Portland and spent 4^th of July with my family. Oregon had a weird summer so we watched the fireworks huddled under blankets for the first time I can remember. They were spectacular though and we had fun that week – a day at the beach, shopping, connecting with friends, and trying to fit in a bit of rest. Everything was a little crazy because Randy and Nicole were also preparing to fly to Malawi – leaving the same day I did -- to visit me here! We flew different routes and airlines but arrived in Lilongwe about 20 minutes apart! It was such a blessing to be able to have family here to see what my life is like and to share things with. I didn’t realize how much it would mean to me until they were here.

Trumpeting Elephant!!

Sisters in Blue

Unfortunately Randy was sick for the first couple of days but by Sabbath he was feeling good and we hiked up to the waterfalls at Mt. Mulanje. It was my birthday too and about 15 people met out at Mulanje for a picnic – it was so special! On Monday we headed up to Liwonde National Park where we saw lots of animals. The highlight was when we spotted a few elephants along the road. We slowed down and the big male decided to cross the road in front of the car. He was about 20 feet in front of the car and turned and trumpeted at us!!!  We all were so excited we didn’t know what to do. I told Randy to put the car in reverse in case we needed to make a quick escape! Lots of birds, antelope, wart hogs, more elephant, and crocodiles were spotted. We managed to see both a sunset and sunrise in the park and enjoyed a morning boat safari! Then it was off to Lake Malawi where we stayed in the “Banana House” on Cape MacLear where Randy went scuba diving and Nicole and I snorkeled.  We were in a little thatch house on a private beach – it was spectacular and relaxing.

Their visit was too short – as expected. BUT that is where the exciting news comes in. After getting home they were called by Dr. Hart (president of LLU and AHI) asking if they might be interested in COMING BACK to Malamulo! He was asking Randy to consider working as an administrator for the Malamulo College of Health Sciences. After long discussions, praying, soul-searching, emails, and more praying they have accepted the call and are moving to Malawi!!!!!

Sunset at Cape MacClear

Now I can hardly believe my own fingers and that what I’m typing is actually true! We’ve always talked about living in the same neighborhood but I honestly never thought that would mean Africa! Randy will work on his master’s degree online and work at the college. I am really excited but also a little nervous for the transition to be smooth for everyone. I believe that God will give them the strength and so many things have come together that it seems like God is calling them in this direction. It won’t be easy though so we covet your prayers!

Also if anyone is willing to help financially with this big transition that would be much appreciated! AHI is helping but they rely on donations. Also this is a short notice decision so the preparations are being made quickly without a chance to save money etc. They didn’t ask me to ask for money – but I’m just putting it out there for those who have an interest in mission and specifically education.

And since we are talking of transitions – Don & Gail Schatszchneider are transitioning home this week. They have been here off and on for three years and are ready to be home. They are both retired missionaries and in their 70’s. I have been asked to be interim CEO until AHI finds someone. I strongly feel that I’m not the right person for this position long-term so please join me in praying for a replacement.

Currently Cristy is home for vacation so that leaves me sort of alone to keep things afloat here. It is a big task and I constantly remind myself to go one day at a time. We have three volunteers coming in the next month and a new surgeon and his family arriving the end of September. In all we will have 7 kids under the age of 8 here which will be nice for the families!

God continues to bless in many ways here at Malamulo. It is not without challenges both personal and on an organizational level. I’m thankful for his faithfulness that is evident in so many ways!