Send me your comment on this blog

 

Mar 2009
Feb 2009
Jan 2009
2008
2007

2006
2005

 

back to top

archive home

Thursday, April 30, 2009

Workout

Though I felt many muscles in my body from yesterday's workout, I was looking forward to going to the gym again. After all, I'll be leaving for another town tomorrow and won't be able to go for 3 days. I got on my bike - it was even colder than yesterday - and rode to the gym. Again, I spent nearly two hours there, on the treadmill, and the weight machines.

Family Time

I got home at half past noon, and made myself a salad. I had a few hours of finally getting some things done, before I had to leave again. I made some progress on my presentation, though not enough. At 5:30 pm I had to leave to drive to my Mom's house. I was going to see my stepfather again for the first time. I decided to put some nice clothes on that showed my weight loss. I hadn't even worn that skirt before (I bought it two yeas ago).

Traffic was horrendous, and it took me longer than expected to get to the best pizza place in town, around the corner from where my parents live. I was looking forward to eating the best pizza in the world!

It was good to see my Mom and her husband again, and we had a great time. I shared a pizza with my Mom - they're so big - and it was delicious. Then we walked over to their appartment, where I spent a little more time with them. It was about 10 pm before I got home. I knew I had to leave in the morning, and really wanted to work on my presenation, but was too tired. I took care of some other things, and it was after midnight before I went to bed.

back to top

Send me your comment on this blog

 

Mar 2009
Feb 2009
Jan 2009
2008
2007

2006
2005

 

back to top

archive home

Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Workout!

Finally the moment I had been waiting for so long - FITNESS CENTER! I had wanted to go even yesterday, but it simply didn't work out my first day in town. Now I was excited to finally go.

My grandmother had her oldest bike prepared for me (so no one would steal it), which took getting used to, but it didn't take long. It takes me to the gym quickly, which is all that counts. It would be too far to walk, and there is no good public transportation from here to there.

It was a little chilly, but not too cold. It was a nice, leasurely ride to the gym. I had looked up the information online, and knew it was a big gym; it's one of a chain of gyms all over Vienna. I found the entrance, and got myself a card for one month. It's well worth the money!

I was excited. The room with the machines was huge. I went straight for the treadmills. In January/February I had first tried jogging/running for two weeks, but wasn't too impressed. I had never liked running, and two weeks of training hadn't changed that. However, I was ready to give it another try. I was now 9 kilos (20 pounds) lighter than back then.

So I started Day 1 of the running program, that slowly increases intensity, and I did feel the difference in my body's weight. My pulse did go up to 94% at times (1 min running, 2 min walking, alternating), but it felt good. I'll keep doing it.

Then I went to the machines, and thoroughly enjoyed them. It felt so good to be working out again! I wished we had a gym in Mali!

Two hours after I got there I got back on my bike and pedaled home.

Errands

I got something to eat, and was really tired. However, I had to leave right away, since I had arranged to meet with my Mom at a certain time, to try to get an internet connection for my notebook through her mobile phone contract.

I had to go all the way to the city center, right by the best icecream shop of town! Of course, I had to get my favorite icecream - so that's ticked off my list.

A few minutes later I found my Mom, but the shop wasn't where she expected, and so we got into the car and drove elsewhere. We got to the shop, and I was relieved to find out that there is a prepaid internet connection. Perfect! It looks like an USB stick, and you can get online anywhere there is cellphone reception, so even as I travel through Austria. It was working, and I downloaded my emails right there and then.

My Mom had another appointment and left, while I went into a sports shop since I needed some workout clothes. I found some great clothes on sale, and bought them. Not too long ago, I would have never worn a tight shirt like that!

Though I would have liked to go into other shops there, I also had an appointment to keep - 4 pm at the hairdresser's. It wasn't too far from there, and so I started walking that direction.

I arrived at my Mom's hairdresser where I usually go - it's been over two years now, though, since I've been letting my hair grow. And it was my last time there since it's very expensive.

She cut a few centimeters off my hair, and over an hour later, I left again. I went into one more store, before I hurried home. My intention was to go to a revival meeting in the evening, and so I had to quickly grab a bite to eat at home, and then hop into the car to drive to church.

When I got home, I was very tired and had a bad headache. That was the second day in a row! In any case, I was absolutely not up to going anywhere. I plopped into a chair, and enjoyed some time of watching television - something I rarely do. I was a little disappointed not having gone to church, but knew I had probably made the right decision. Plus, I still needed to work on doing my presentation all over again.

I thought I'd go to bed early for once, but of I course I didn't. However, it was still a good time for me - midnight.

back to top

Send me your comment on this blog

 

Mar 2009
Feb 2009
Jan 2009
2008
2007

2006
2005

 

back to top

archive home

Tuesday, April 28, 2009

First Day In Vienna

I had a vivid dream of Hama & Sarata and their parents returning to live with us, and felt the urgency in the dream, of those kids having to live with us. At 9 am I slowly got up.

My grandmother had an appointment, and I enjoyed the quiet, spending quality time with God. When my Grandma came back, I checked my emails on HER computer, but I still had lots of unsent emails in my own outbox. There didn't seem to be a solution for the connection problem.

My Grandma cooked one of my favorite meals for lunch - to get it out of the way right away (as for danger to my weight loss) - and after lunch I continued online. However, the tiredness returned big time. So I lay down, but simply couldn't sleep, with too much going through my mind. So I got back up again.

My Grandmother and I then left to go grocery shopping - and I was invited by her! It's like heaven, going to a grocery store, and being able to buy anything you want. Pretty amazing! I had a great time. She then dropped me off at my friend Renate's place, where I used to stay in the past. I miss staying with her for many reasons.

It was great to see my friend again, and connected my computer to the internet with one simple CLICK of the cable into the jack. It's so easy! I then spent several hours talking with my friend, doing emails, and watching TV, all at once! I had a great time, and was sad to have to leave. I had stayed much longer than planned, and only returned home close to 10 pm.

News From Mali

I finally had a chance to talk to Paul, and find out how the crisis played out, and unfortunately, got more bad news from Paul.

1. The crisis - Paul tried to withdraw money on Friday, and got the code wrong, so that the card was kept by the ATM machine. The weekend was ahead, and he needed a copy of my passport and an autorisation to get the card back from the bank. Plus, he needed money for food and gas; thankfully our contractor lent him the money. The bank was closed on Monday, and they only got the email with the required information after Paul passed by there. So, he has to go there tomorrow, Wed, and hopefully gets the card back and have access to money again.

2. One of our recent additions to the family was caught touching a neighbor's girl sexually. The neighbors complained, how this could happen at a Christian place, and the boy was severely warned. He's also been removed from the water selling ministry.

3. Kids always climb over our 2m-high wall which is very annoying. Now a boy who climbed over and inside was bitten by our dog who's very protective right now because of her puppies. She's finally a watchdog, and I'm very glad for this incident! Now the kids don't dare climbing over any more, yeah! The parents were upset, of course, and wanted Paul to pay for the medical treatment. When Paul refused, they threatened him with the police. Of course, it was empty threats since the boy is the one who trespassed. Paul handled this very well!

4. I told Paul that I've felt these last few days that I wanted to take him to the States with me this summer, for three weeks, two of which would be at the clinic in Wichita. I've been very concerned for his health, and believe this is exactly what he needs. I could use my miles to get him a free ticket, and am praying the doctor would treat him for free (I've asked him). The major hurdle is the visa. Please pray for God's will to be done in this!

back to top

 

Send me your comment on this blog

 

Mar 2009
Feb 2009
Jan 2009
2008
2007

2006
2005

 

back to top

archive home

Monday, April 27, 2009

From Belgium To France

It was very hard to get up after 5 hours, and since I had been afraid to not hear my alarm, I only slept lightly. I finished packing and was ready to leave by the appointed time of 7:45 am. My hosts had been so kind to pack me some sandwiches. Thank you, Josy!

It was time to say good-bye to the pastor's wife, as the pastor was driving me to the train station, and also dropping off his daughter at school. I got there at 8:15, three quarters of an hour before my train to Brussels was to leave. I looked for an earlier train and found it. However, I still had to wait for half an hour, and was trembling with cold as I was sitting on a bench on the platform, waiting for my train to arrive.

It was a little late, but I know I'd still be very much in time to get my connection. I was glad to be inside a warm train, and it was also pretty empty. So I ended up dozing for most of the one-hour ride, which I really needed.

Arriving in Brussels, I was glad I still had time to look for a chocolate shop to buy some of the famous, expensive Belgian chocolate for birthday gifts for several family members whose birthdays are around now. I had not had a chance to do that all weekend! I was successful, yeah!

I then walked to my platform, glad I didn't have my bags up the staircase again. The train to the airport was already there, and I boarded. It was full to the max! It would only take one hour with this super-fast train to go from Brussels to the Paris airport. Again, I spent most time dozing as the tiredness was pretty bad.

From France To Austria

I arrived at the airport at 11:30 am, and my flight was only at 4:15 pm; all the later trains had already been full. I made my way to my terminal, and to the check-in. To my dismay I was told I could only check in my bag two hours before my flight, but not four. Great! Now I had to haul my suitcase up the staircase to the frequent flyer lounge, just to haul it back down two hours later!

I walked up the staircase into the lobby, and asked an Air France employee to carry it up for me. He wasn't happy at all about it, and asked why, but did it anyway. Thank you! I found a nice seat and spent the next two hours checking emails, eating, and dozing. Then I checked in my bag, and returned to my seat for another nearly two hours of the same.

I went through security and to my gate where boarding was just starting. As soon as I was in my seat, I first did some reading, but soon dozed off. I was so tired! I felt rattled by the time we arrived in Vienna, at 6:15 pm.

My bag came out quickly, and I exited, finding my Mom right away. It was good to see her again. Together we went to her car, and we drove off, to my grandmother's house where I'd be staying.

My grandmother was out, at the theater, and my Mom had the keys. We carried everything inside, and I said good-bye to my Mom.

I unpacked everything, waiting for my Grandma to come home so I could have the internet modem and get online. I wanted to know whether teh crisis in Mali was taken care of. I called some good friends and had a good time talking with them.

Around 10 pm I got VERY tired, but I pressed on; I was happy when my grandmother finally arrived. I tried everything, but couldn't make her modem work on my computer; it was very frustrating. It was going on 1 am when I finally went to bed, being totally exhausted.

back to top

Send me your comment on this blog

 

Mar 2009
Feb 2009
Jan 2009
2008
2007

2006
2005

 

back to top

archive home

Sunday, April 26, 2009

Sunday Service

I had a very hard time getting up so early. They pray for 8-9 am at church, then have breakfast together, and have service at 10:30 am. We had to leave at 7:45 am. I was really feeling the tiredness big time, and then found out that they had decided the ladies would go to church later - an hour later. Sigh. I lay back down to sleep for half an hour.

We arrived at church just after 9 am. The table in the pastors' office area was richly laid with all kinds of goodies that are so normal for people here, since they eat it all the time. But not me. I thought the breakfast was heavenly. I met the pastor's wife's Mom for the first time - she's Italian - and enjoyed talking to her, also after the others had gone off to do different things before the service.

I talked to a few people before the service, and then it started. I could still feel the tiredness and wasn't able to enter in as much as I wanted to. During the preaching, I tried hard to keep my eyes open and succeeded. I love how they preach the gospel in this place, and a lot of "basic" stuff that is so important and so often neglected in churches. Also, nearly everyone in this church has come to the Lord through them! It's quite a unique church, and they are paying the price for it, sadly.

There was a ministry time in the end, and once again I was amazed how many responded to this kind of call. In most churches people would be too self-conscious, but here they are all very much aware they are sinners needing help from God. As I was watching them pray, I was thinking, I'd love to get some prayer too.

Suddenly, the pastor called me forward. He started prophesying over me, how things have been hard, but now they'll be easy, and about a time of completion, that my heart's desires would be fulfilled - that part was very similar to what the pastor in Paris had said. Wow! He also talked about signs, wonders, and miracles. As he put his hand on me to pray for a release of the Spirit, His power came on me and I went down to the floor, where I enjoyed being in His presence.

When I got up, people were already waiting to talk to me. I enjoyed meeting all this wonderful people, and was told all kinds of wonderful things, including some promising things. However, I've learned to wait and see whether words become actions.

After the service, they had a reception there to celebrate the pastors' son's engagement. That gave me an opportunity to talk more with people, which was great.

Promising Developments

During the service, I decided I needed to talk to the technical guy to find out a few things that I wanted to implement in Mali. I ended up getting the freeware software for us to project songs and Bible verses, and was very happy about that. Already I had projected songs, but simply using WORD.

And then another guy approached me offering to help with my website. The more I talked the more excited I got, and I asked him to create our church website that I've totally been neglecting, and to help with a few things with my website that I've not had the knowledge to do. And then his wife said that she'd be happy to do French translations, and I got even more excited, since there are many French speakers in this church and other places that don't speak English. And so, my French mailing list was born today; this girl is gonna translate my English newsletter every time one is sent out and send it out in French. If any of you would like to get the French version, let me know.

I also talked to some guys in the construction business, who asked me all kinds of questions, and showed interest in coming and helping us. If the money came, they could come to build the next house!

I'm amazed at how wonderful the people in this church are, and was taken off guard by that. The assistant pastor went around from person to person with my sign-up sheet to receive the email newsletter, and flyers, "making" every one sign up and take one. Wow!

Time was flying by, and around 4 pm we left. While the pastors and their family went home, I was leaving with two other couples. The one couple wasn't from this church, but the other couple had called them over to meet me, since they had gone to Burkina Faso, right next to Mali, to help build an orphanage, and would be going back.

We went to their house, where we talked and talked. They watched the presentations, and I looked at their pictures from Burkina. We also exchanged floor plans. We had a good time talking, and since they are close to the Malian border when they are in Burkina, they said they'd visit next time.

We then had dinner together, and I heard some amazing life stories from them that just showed how awesome our God is. I had been very conscious of this extreme tiredness all day, and really wanted to go home. We spent some time praying together, and then it was time to say good-bye. The lady of the house is also the Aglow president for the city, and invited me to be their speaker at their monthly meeting some time in the future.

At 9:30 pm I was dropped off - no, not at home, but where the pastors and their family were invited for some fun and fellowship. I sat down, and was ready to fall asleep. Instead, I was so lucky to sit next to the pastor which was my first and only chance to talk to him a little, which was great.

It was going on 11 pm before we left, and I was very glad. I was napping in the car - no choice - but once we got home, I turned on the computer and took care of a few things. I didn't know when I'd be online again, since I am leaving very early tomorrow morning. I set my alarm for just after 7 am, and yet, didn't go to bed until 2 am. I knew tomorrow would be tough, with a long day of traveling.

It had been a wonderful time in Liège, full of surprises and blessings. I didn't know why God had wanted me to come, and had no expectations whatsoever, and He blew me away. I believe this was not my last time there.

back to top

Send me your comment on this blog

 

Mar 2009
Feb 2009
Jan 2009
2008
2007

2006
2005

 

back to top

archive home

Saturday, April 25, 2009

Women's Meeting

Not having made an effort to adapt to this time zone, I had a hard time getting up this morning when my alarm rang. I got ready and went down for our breakfast together. Then we left to go to church.

The women's meeting started at 10 am. Josy wanted me to share a few minutes. It was pretty cold, and they were so nice to bring an electric heater over.

We started with a little worship, and then Josy did her teaching. After she was done, including some time of praying, she handed me the mic. Most women had seen my presentation last night and already knew the basics. So I told them about the value of women and children, the culture, the challenges. Everyone was very interested, and a group of women gathered around me afterwards, asking me questions.

Especially one was interesting. She told me that her sister had done something very similar to me, in the country of Togo, and that she had lots of contacts in the French-speaking world. She said she'd see whether her sister would give me those contacts. She told me how Christians in the French-speaking world are actually LOOKING for missionaries in the French-speaking world to support. Yeah!

We returned home where we had a little something to eat. I had been blown away by their bathtub, and Josy said I could take a bath. Since leaving Mali, I've been dreaming about taking a bath! Yeah! I had a wonderful time in there, with a great book. Thank You, Jesus.

Birthday Party

There was still some time before the birthday party for the pastors' son would start. I was so tired, I really just wanted to sleep, but I started working instead, and wanted to get that work done. I have to do my video presentation all over again, because of the glitch in the software. I need a good quality version, and I need to do it in three languages. It's a LOT of work, and will take a LONG time.

Well, I later wondered whether I shouldn't have gotten a nap instead. At 7 pm I went to join the party. We started eating shortly afterwards - Greek food. I talked with different people. Later they had cake and dessert. I had a good time answering people's questions about Mali. Some people seem to have really been touched by what I've shared.

It was after 10 pm when I left the party to go to my room, and finish my blog, before going to bed. Tomorrow, I have to get up VERY early to go to church - no clue how that's gonna work out!

back to top

Send me your comment on this blog

 

Mar 2009
Feb 2009
Jan 2009
2008
2007

2006
2005

 

back to top

archive home

Friday, April 24, 2009

On To Liège

Both Richard and his wife had to leave in the morning to go to work, and so I had to come along. Thankfully, Richard started late today. I quickly had some tea and ate a banana, and at 9 am we left the house.

We walked to the bus station again, and took the bus to the train station. It was our last chance to talk. Once arrived, Richard had to hurry to catch his train to work, and I went to buy my ticket to Liège. It took some time, but it worked out perfectly for me to take the train I wanted.

My host Josy in Liège had asked me to arrive later since she didn't have transportation in the morning, but I told her it was okay; I could wait. I took the slower train to Liège and arrived at 10:20 am. I found a little café, and sat down with the tea I had bought. There was a hotspot, and so I decided to use my time wisely by connecting and catching up on emails. Josy knew I was already there and waiting, but I tried to tell her not to worry, since I didn't mind, being connected to the internet.

However, an hour later a lady with a sign with my name on showed up to take me to Josy's house. She introduced herself as the assistant pastor's wife. We loaded everything into the car, and off we went. She took the route through downtown so I could see something of their town. I had lots of questions for her while we were driving. We left town, as the pastors are living a little outside. I was surprised how far it was.

It was afternoon by the time we arrived. I was impressed by the size of the house! We're in Europe after all, not the US! :-) It was great to see Josy again, who I had last seen in Pasadena last summer. They just got back from a trip to Greece (where her husband is from) yesterday, where their son had celebrated his engagement to a Greek girl. The girl and her Mom had also come to Belgium, and so they had a full house.

I lay down for a little bit in the office that was going to be my room, as I was pretty tired. Then we had lunch, and then I had some more time to myself, which was wonderful.

Pierres Vivantes Church

At 6 pm we left to drive to church. They have three services per week - Wed, Fri, and Sun. Just before we left, I was asked to share tonight rather than Sunday morning. Ok, no problem! I had my French flyers, and presentation, ready.

I was really looking forward to the service. My first service in the Western world on this trip! We arrived at their facilities some time before the service. We went into the sanctuary, which was quite a good size for Belgium. I gave the technical guy my DVD, and was glad to find out that they would turn on the heating. It sure was cold in there!

Just after 7 pm the service started. The pastor's wife was up there leading worship with a few people, and at first the pastor was walking up and down in the front, encouraging the people to worship.

Worship lasted about one hour. I was quickly on my knees and face, as the sweet presence of the Lord washed over me. How I had missed that! There's nothing like corporate worship! I hadn't felt His presence like that since my last trip! It was so precious, I was overwhelmed. I felt convincted, repented, with tears and with joy, felt thankfulness and was overwhelmed by His goodness; all kinds of emotions ran through me in His presence. It was a wonderful time!

The pastor's wife took the mic after worship, and I slowly made myself get up. I didn't realize how soon she would hand me the mic, and wasn't quite back in the real world - or rather this world - and ready. Oh well.

I started sharing some preliminary things, before starting the presentation. It was in English (because of the software problems I've had), and so I commented on it in French. Then I added a few more things, before handing back the mic. The pastor surprised me by saying that people could give money to me at the end of the service. Wow! He did put a basket in the front at the end, and reminded people to give, and they did.

After my turn, it was time for the pastor to preach, which was great. At the end, most of the church came forward responding to the altar call, and the pastor prayed for them. It was so wonderful to see God moving, and I would have very much liked to get prayer myself.

After the service, I had a few good conversations with people before we went home.

Back home, we had a bite to eat, and a chance to talk a little. Returning to my room, I got on the computer, and ended up going to bed a little late.

back to top

Send me your comment on this blog

 

Mar 2009
Feb 2009
Jan 2009
2008
2007

2006
2005

 

back to top

archive home

Thursday, April 23, 2009

Wednesday

After a long restful morning, Corinne picked me up so we could go buy some stuff for Mali - some language-specific stuff I wouldn't be able to get elsewhere. Nothing really worked out as expected, and so we ended up only going to the store nearby. However, I did get the most important stuff, and we had a good time.

After dropping off the stuff at the hotel, it was time to go to church. I took the bus, while Corinne rode her bike. I got to church where I headed straight to the bookstore - they were expecting me. They've had some construction going on, and so the bookstore had been rather dormant, and wasn't that well stocked. However, I did find a few helpful French books, CDs, and DVDs.

After my time in the library, it was time for dinner. Corinne had cooked, but was busy doing some stuff from church. So I had dinner with Eric - who had also been with me in the bookstore - and another guy. We had a good time.

At 8 pm their weekly prayer meeting started, lasting until 10 pm. Towards the end, some people also prayed for me, Paul, and for Mali, and gave us some encouraging words. Praise God!

Leaving Paris

This morning I had to be out of my hotel room by noon. My digestive system was suffering from the change of diet and meals at night (I had not even in the evening for two whole months before this trip). But by noon I was ready and out of the room. I had to wait for my friend Corinne for over half an hour, and was getting a little nervous, but she came. I had looked up train times on the internet, and had an idea what trains I wanted to take.

We went to the train ticket office where I got my tickets - though not the ones I had wanted, but it still worked out fine. Then we had to take a bus, followed by a train, to go to one of the train stations in Paris.

The train ride into Paris took around 45 minutes. Corinne - who rides her bike everywhere - was able to take her bike on the train, and hang it up on the wall! The blue bag and coat is mine.

At the train station, we still had some time before my train was supposed to leave. So we waited for some time to find out what platform it would leave from, and enjoyed our last moments together.

Connections In Lille

At 3 pm the fastest train in Europe pulled out of the station. I had a one hour ride ahead of me at 300 km/h (190 mi/h), going to the north of France, to the city of Lille. A few years ago (3?) I met an African man at the church in Paris who I've been loosely in contact with since then. He's founded a missions group in Lille, reaching out locally, but also reaching the French-speaking world in the nations.

When I felt God telling me to go to Liège, Belgium, I saw that Lille is actually on the way there, and so I thought of Simplice, who's been inviting me for a long time to come do revival meetings. He was excited when I contacted him, excited that we'd be able to get together and talk and see how we could collaborate in the future.

I arrived in Lille at 4 pm, and soon found Simplice and his team members. I was leaving from a different train station two and a half hours later, but it was in walking distance, and so we walked to the other one together, and sat down in a little café there.

We then spent the time we had talking and strategizing, and a had a great time. I was very excited about all I learned from them. In fact, I was amazed at how God orchestrates things, of how he brought me there at just the right time obvisouly in terms of where they were at. And how that connection even only existed because Simplice gave me a ride to the airport after a conference 3 years ago! Wow! Plus, Simplice doesn't speak English, and still gets my updates, and replies to them from time to time. Amazing.

So, what's the fruit? Simplice and a team is doing an Africa trip in November, and Mali is now one of their stops. It's like a first trip to see the different ministries, and then see where they are going to do more in the future. It's so exciting to see French-speakers come to Mali! Yeah, God!

Arriving In Belgium

At 6:30 pm my train to Belgium left Lille, and it meant leaving some new friends. Our appreciation had been mutual.

I was still in the fast train, and arrived in Brussels 35 minutes later. I had a connection to take there. When I got off, there was a guy at the exit who told me that there was an earlier train to Leuven; I wouldn't have to wait 50 minutes. He told me what platform it was. I got to the platform, and as with every other one, there was an elevator to the right, and a staircase to the left. I approached the elevator and got in, but it was all dark and not moving. Oh great! Carry all my stuff up that staircase? My bag was heavy. Oh well, at least I was getting a workout in. I've been a faithful and passionate watcher of THE BIGGEST LOSER Australia and USA, and so my little workout seemed pretty harmless to what I had seen there. It wasn't easy, though, and I was exhausted by the time I had everything up there.

Time was of essence too, and so I rushed towards the waiting train, and quickly got in. I had made it! I called my friend who was going to pick me up, and in fact, we'd both be arriving around the same time, as he was on his way home from work. It also took about 35 minutes to get there, and I arrived just before 7 pm.

I got off the train and called my friend so we could find each other - it worked. It was great to see Richard again after 2 years; he's Austrian and currently lives with his wife in Belgium, and he's been a faithful supporter of the work in Mali.

We went to the bus station, and took a bus to where they lived. Leuven is a Flemish town, while other parts of Belgium are entirely French. It was all apartment buildings where they lived, and reminded me of Vienna.

We took the elevator to the fourth floor, and I finally met Richard's wife for the first time. She'd be prepared dinner, and we spent the following hours talking and fellowshipping. We had a great time catching up, and it was rather late when I went to bed.

back to top

Send me your comment on this blog

 

Mar 2009
Feb 2009
Jan 2009
2008
2007

2006
2005

 

back to top

archive home

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

Leaving Mali

At 8 pm last night, I was packed and ready to go to the airport. The kids took my bags to the car, and then it was time to say good-bye.

Team, children, and street children, gathered together, and I prayed for them and for Paul and the trip. Then I hugged person after person. I'm gonna miss them all. Abdias and Souleymane - the kids that have been with me the longest - wanted to come along to the airport, and so they did. I sat with Paul in the backseat, so we'd have a last chance to talk.

Arriving at the airport, you have to be really quick with getting out of the car, if you don't want to get into trouble with the policemen with their hawk eyes. So I got al my stuff, and hugged Paul and the kids, saying one last good-bye. Then I took my stuff and went inside the terminal.

Thanks to my frequent flyer status, I checked in quickly, went through immigration, and to the lounge. I had another hour before it was time to board.

I was tired with the previous night having been shorter than usual, and closed my eyes during that hour to get some rest. Then I went the rest of the way, security, a few more passport checks, bag checks, and on to the plane.

I had a big Malian lady with a HUGE baby (how can a baby be so big?) next to me. The baby was too big for the crib they install on the wall, and needed an extra chair! So they moved her to the back of the plane where there were more empty seats, and I had two seats to myself. Unfortunately there was an unmovable barrier between the two seats - a serious mistake of design.

As people were coming onto the plane, I listened up when two gentlemen were speaking Austrian German, even the Viennese dialect. So I asked them whether they were from Vienna, and they were. What a coincidence! We started talking, and I found out that they are friends with the Austrian consul in Mali and visited him. I ended up giving them my info flyer - I happened to have ONE German version in my carry-on.

At 11 pm we took off. I watched one (good) movie, and at midnight they served dinner. I love the Air France dinner! However, these past two months I have not ever eaten dinner - only breakfast and lunch - and so I'm not used to eating in the evening any more. I paid a price for eating a meal at midnight! Hopefully I learned my lesson.

Arriving In Paris

The flight really isn't long as you arrive in Paris at 4:10 am (Malian time), and they wake you up an hour before arrival. And so I hardly slept at all, and was pretty tired. We deboarded, and I made my way to the exit. Long lines everywhere - amazing how busy the airport is at 6 am - and so it took a while. Then they changed the carousel for our bags to come out, but I finally got it and headed to the exit.

There were lots of people, but I found my faithful friend Corinne who I hadn't seen in a while. Corinne visited us in Mali three years ago.

I found out that she had come by public transportation, and that's the way we had to leave. Ok!

While it's been extremely hot in Mali - with 34-37°C in my house (i.e. 93-99°F) - I was now faced with 8°C (46°F). Needless to say, I was cold! I really didn't want to bring my winter clothes in May! Thankfully I had one sweater with me, and I was wearing it.

We went to a bus we then rode on for one hour. During that hour, I enjoyed catching up with Corinne, but the tiredness also really hit me. Corinne told me that she wanted to put me up in a little hotel, as it would not be restful and quiet where she lives because of the many kids there. She's renting a room with a family. And so we went to this little hotel after getting off the bus.

We got there at 9 am, and of course where told that we had to wait until noon to get a room. However, if a room was ready earlier, he'd let us know.

So we sat down and waited. That's where this picture was taken, and you can tell I'm tired! Corinne and I spent the time talking, and at 11:30, he finally handed us the key card.

I got to the really cold room, and thankfully we figured out how to turn the heat on. It's really extremely simply, but hey, who really cares. As long as they have internet, right?

Corinne left, and I went online taking care of some things, before I lay down to get a few hours of sleep. My alarm rudely woke me three hours later.

Friends At CLN

Corinne came later than expect, and around 7:30 pm I stepped off the bus at the gate of the church here, Christ Light of the Nations. Corinne had gone to visit her children by bike. 

Look at the picture to the right - how do you know this picture was taken in a bus in France? Look closely. The eldery man in the middle is holding a baguette, the typical French bread. I love it! It feels so good to be back in Europe, and melt into the crowd, rather than being different being the only white person around.

The pastors were still at church, as were a few other friends from the church. I first came to this church 3.5 years ago, and it's a wonderful place. I got to speak with the one pastor, and then talked for a long time with the other pastor (his wife). It was a wonderful time of exchange. I hadn't stopped here on my travels for quite some time, though I always have to go through Paris to go to or leave Mali.

At 9 pm I went to Jacque & Bibi's quarters for dinner. They are like the janitors of the church and live right there. They had invited me for dinner (picture). Marie also joined us, and Corinne came back some time later.

We had some wonderful chicken, and a good time of fellowship. At 10:15 we took the last bus out to take us back to where the hotel was.

What a wonderful first day back in Europe! I felt great as I went back to my room.

back to top

Send me your comment on this blog

 

Mar 2009
Feb 2009
Jan 2009
2008
2007

2006
2005

 

back to top

archive home

Monday, April 20, 2009

Construction Pictures

We hadn't taken any construction pictures in a while - not that much has changed. This is the dining hall right now.

Bakary & Sarata

Every day after school, Hama and Sarata come over to our property so Hama can do his exercises. I spent some time with Bakary (5) and Sarata (nearly 4) today, while Hama was busy. And then they were watching some Jesus cartoons in my living room. Aren't they a sweet couple? Who knows, one day....

The other picture shows you that my cat is really hot as well. Hot season has pretty much reached its peak now, or is very close to.

Off To Europe!

Well, it's time for me to leave once again. It's been a good two months here in Mali, but now I'm really looking forward to going to Austria for a month.

Please pray for a safe trip to Paris tonight. I'm leaving Mali at 11 pm, and arrive in Paris at 4 am (Malian time), so that will be tough. A friend will pick me up, and I'll stay with her until Thursday. On Thu I have to take the train north, to Lille, where I'm gonna meet with a mininstry leader who wants to talk about possible revival meetings in the future. A few hours later I take the train again to go to Leuven (near Brussels) where I'm gonna spend the night with friends who support us. Friday morning I take the train to Liège, where I'm gonna stay with HIM pastors until Monday. On Saturday I get to share in a women's meeting.

On Monday, I take the train back to the Paris airport, and fly out to Vienna, Austria.

Thanks for praying for traveling mercies, protection, and HIM to go before me.

Pray also for Paul and the kids while I'm gone.

back to top

Send me your comment on this blog

 

Mar 2009
Feb 2009
Jan 2009
2008
2007

2006
2005

 

back to top

archive home

Saturday, April 18, 2009

Puppy Surprise

On Thursday I got a huge surprise when Paul told me that our dog Uppy had given birth to 8 puppies! What?!? None of us even knew she was pregnant! We've had a hole in our gate for a while, and I knew that she was going outside through that hole frequently for some time. We haven't been able to repair it because we don't have enough electricity, and Kossi can't rent a generator for only one day.

Our dog is so very skinny, I would have never guessed. One day after their birth, I went inside to see them. Uppy moved the puppies into a more protected place in a little storage room of the dining hall. Unfortunately she's very protective, and on Friday, she wouldn't let any of the street kids into the dining hall for the literacy class! I had to move the board and benches as far away from the storage room as possible and hold Uppy while the kids hesitantly went inside. They were afraid of Uppy. In the end it worked out.

So these are the beauties. Is 8 a lot? Do you know how long they have to stay with their Mom until you can give them away? I know nothing about dogs. I have already sent out an email to the missionary communtiy to let them know that puppies are available. I've only been able to "get rid" of one so far.

Fabricants De Joie

Instead of last Monday, my kids' first public performance was today. Three of my kids have become part of the FABRICANTS DE JOIE (FJ) of YWAM here in Mali. They dance to worship & praise music. I was too busy to go see them because of my preparations for my Europe trip on Monday, but Paul and a couple of my other kids went.

I heard they did great, and everybody loved it. Souleymane, Abdias, and Jérémie are very excited to be a part. Jérémie is sitting near the edge of the picture to the right, in the middle.

back to top

Send me your comment on this blog

 

Mar 2009
Feb 2009
Jan 2009
2008
2007

2006
2005

 

back to top

archive home

Tuesday, April 14, 2009

Easter Party for Street Kids

Because of different circumstances, we had to wait until Tuesday to do our Easter Party for street children.

On Monday we had bought 100 eggs - well, we were cheated by 7 eggs - and boiled them. This morning it was time to color them. Thankfully I found some packets of food color I had bought a few years ago.

So we divided the kids up into five groups. Paul's brothers and sisters were here as well. I also divided the eggs into five equal heaps, and gave a different color to each group.

Each group had a little cup and spoon to put the egg into the colored water. This picture shows Bakary (left) and a girl that is related to Paul's family (right).

Here's what it looked like in the end. On the right. Joseph is putting th eggs into a big bowl.

I then numbered the eggs for the game we were going to do with the street children.

At 3 pm our last preparations began. Tasks were handed out, and at 4 pm we headed to the gate to let the children in one by one. Jean had gone to the bus station to pick up more children.

As the kids entered, they were each given candy, a piece of paper with a number, their name tag, and a mark on their hand. The pictures shows my kids, who were helping me at the gate.

After everyone had arrived - about 40 kids (only) - it was time to start with the games. My kids and I had hidden all 100 eggs all over the property. Each kid had two numbers, and the first 10 that would find the eggs with the corresponding numbers would go on to the next game. It was fun to watch them running around the property, looking at eggs and comparing numbers.

Unfortunately not all kids followed the rules, but simply ate the eggs they found, without looking at the numbers. Because of that, we only had 8 that had found their eggs - the others had "disappeared". So 8 went on to the next game.

The 8 were split into two groups and played tug-of-war. The remainig 4 went on to game 3 - putting their egg on a spoon held by their mouth and having to walk as quickly to the finish line without the egg dropping. The first two went on to the last game.

For the last game we had set our basketball goal onto a barrel, and each boy had five shots. The one with more goals would win - only one boy had one goal, and so he won the prize of chocolate and a little soft-toy.

We then went all inside into the dining hall where we sang a few praise songs in Bambara. Paul did a few, and then I did one with actions.

This is a video clip of them dancing and singing:

 

Click here if you can't see the video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OjjRLn158X8

Then it was time for more prizes. All their numbers had also been put into a little box, and now it was time for the tombola. I had about 12 prizes for them, with one big prize. Balloons, bubbles, cards, sunglasses, candy, and a thermos bottle to keep your water cold. One street kid won both - the best prize, and the second prize!

Then it was time for the movie. They watched the MATTHEW video in Bambara - the whole life of Jesus. They were glued to the screen. When it was over, I asked a few questions and gave candy to those who knew the answers. Then I invited them to give their lives to the Lord, and many did. We prayed together, and then thanked God for the food. It was time for dinner.

After dinner, they lined up at my door to come inside one by one and choose a piece of clothing. They all wanted shoes! However, we had not stocked up on shoes this time but only had the leftovers from Christmas, and so we rean out pretty quickly. One kid was so upset, he wouldn't take pants or a T-shirt instead. In the picture, you see one street kid and Abdias as they are looking for shoes his size.

Finally, we were done! Jean took the street kids who didn't want to spend the night back to the bus station, and those who stayed went to bed. It had been a good day.

back to top

Send me your comment on this blog

 

Mar 2009
Feb 2009
Jan 2009
2008
2007

2006
2005

 

back to top

archive home

Monday, April 13, 2009

Selling Water

We've finally started selling water to our neighbors again. Water is a precious thing here, and access not easily found for people. They have to buy it from vendors that go house to house with their donkey carts.

We used to sell water, but then had to stop it because we didn't have enough electricity for the water pump, plus construction takes a lot of water as well. Right now there is no construction going on, and we have more power than we used to have, and now the pump automatically comes on in the middle of the day each day. So we decided - in the middle of this hot season - to start selling it again, for a better price than the street vendors, and our neighbors are very thankful.

Joseph (16) is responsible for this task; he's not going to school like the other kids. In fall he's starting evening school, and we need to find a way to keep him busy during the day.

Dramane helping Joseph.

Moussa is on the inside, turning the water on and off. As you can see, the hose is across our wall, with Joseph outside selling the water.

back to top

Send me your comment on this blog

 

Mar 2009
Feb 2009
Jan 2009
2008
2007

2006
2005

 

back to top

archive home

Saturday, April 11, 2009

Easter Service

Paul went to the village of Dra in the morning, to preach an Easter message, while I prepared for our service in the afternoon.

I love preaching special occasion services - no wondering what to preach on. And I was looking forward to explaining the Jewish background of Jesus last week before the cross. There is so much in there!

I was disappointed to see a few people missing - of all days today? Still, I preached with enthousiasm and had a few very interested listeners. I also used my laptop and showed excerpts of MATTHEW (e.g. last supper), as well as a music video with excerpts of THE PASSION. Then we all prayed a prayer of commitment together. It had been a precious service.

back to top

Send me your comment on this blog

 

Mar 2009
Feb 2009
Jan 2009
2008
2007

2006
2005

 

back to top

archive home

Thursday, April 9, 2009

Three New Non-Resident Children

Daouda (7), Michée (6), Patrice (2) - all sons of Rosalie (cook) and Dami (night guard), who live just around the corner and will have to move out when the government destroys their house - and move in with us.

We're looking for sponsors for those three who'd like to support them with $60 or 40€ a month so they can eat, get medical care, and go to school. Please email me.

Two New Resident Children

I've now also taken a picture of Boubacar (to the right) who we estimate to be about 7 years old. His family gave him away to a Muslim teacher at age 5, and he has no clue where his village is, so we are unable to get the family's consent for raising him.

I already presented Florentin to you. Today, Paul went back to his Mom and two siblings to get her signature that he can stay with us. Also, we decided to give her a 50 kilo bag of rice since she's alone with her two remaining children. As you can see, she was overjoyed. She's very happy that Florentin is with us now as she had feared him dead, hearing the stories of all the kids that are being sacrificed.

Thank God for these children that have been saved! Please pray they'll settle in well, and grow in their faith in the Lord.

Fabricants de Joie

That's the name of the YWAM dance group here in Mali; it's for boys age 7-14, but only if they speak French. For that reason, Amadou was not able to go to the 3 day camp they organized. They made an exception for Abdias and Souleymane who are both already 15 (and soon 16). Jérémie (13) went as well though he struggled with French somewhat.

I took them there on Monday. The camp was held at a Christian school - the very same where all my kids are going next year, if it works out. That school has a great reputation. This morning we picked them up again.

Oh my, were they excited! They had loved it! They learned a dance, had teachings on worship, and Souleymane even had to do a devotional for everyone at one point. He told me that it "clicked" for him, and now he finally knows what worship is.

Next Monday, they have their first performance. After that, they have one weekend a month where they get together to learn and practice. In the summer, there will be a 2-week camp in Ivory Coast. There is also a 2-week outreach camp in Ivory coast that the older boys can go on. The problem is always that their French has to be good, and the new kids don't speak it yet.

I'm excited for them to get that opportunity though. Thank God for YWAM!

My kids' music teacher was also at the camp since he leads the YWAM choir. We're blessed to have him.

back to top

Send me your comment on this blog

 

Mar 2009
Feb 2009
Jan 2009
2008
2007

2006
2005

 

back to top

archive home

Tuesday, April 7, 2009

Five New Children

Before you go into shock, let me clarify that we've taken in TWO new children into the house, and have 3 more that are non-resident kids with sponsors.

A few days ago we did the interviews with Boubacar and Florentin, two of the kids that seem to be among the youngest. I was shocked to find out that Florentin is actually 13 years old - he looks more like 9.

I still need to get used to calling him Florentin because we've known him these past 7 months as Boubacar. He changed his name so he cannot be found as easily, since Florentin is rather unusual, while Boubacar is very common.

Florentin never knew his Dad who died early, and life was very hard for his Mom with her three children. Florentin left his family when his Mom remarried. He has been on the street for about a year. He had dropped out of school in the middle of third grade, and his Mom told us that he was a very bright student. I can tell since he's been in my literacy class. After the summer break, Florentin will pick up his studies again.

The other child is Boubacar, the youngest of all the street children sleeping at our place. My guess is that he's maybe 7 years old. The poor kid has had such a miserable life already, and has a hard time smiling. I have not taken a new picture of him yet.

In the days to come I will post their life stories on the RESIDENT CHILDREN page. We now need sponsors for the two of them.

The other three children are those of Rosalie (cook) and Dami (night guard). I hope to take their pictures tomorrow. I'm glad we can offer those kids food, medical care, school, and a future. Yeah God! I love taking in children!

Jean's Wedding

Jean left last Saturday to spend this week preparing for his wedding on Saturday. Since the kids have a one-week break at school, this was the perfect time for it.

Yesterday he called Paul, telling him that his wedding is postponed - because the pastor is out of town, and for financial reasons. Awkward.

In the meantime, we're still trying to get back in touch again with the couple I interviewed in January - he was a driver, and she a western-trained household help.

back to top

Send me your comment on this blog

 

Mar 2009
Feb 2009
Jan 2009
2008
2007

2006
2005

 

back to top

archive home

Sunday, April 5, 2009

Sick

On Friday I got sick, and so I was out of the picture yesterday. Paul had to do the service without me, and in the morning, he went to the village of Dra to minister to the new believers there. He's doing an amazing job!

Today I'm doing much, much better - I'm actually amazed at how much better, and can only ascribe it to the prayers of God's people. Thank you!

Moussa's Birthday

On Tuesday, Moussa is turning 18 years old. Moussa moved in a few weeks ago to replace Sekouba as our day guard. Moussa was a street child, but he had given his life to Jesus, and we baptized him last November. It's been a blessing to have him around. He goes to evening school right now to continue his education.

Since 3 of my boys are going on a 3-day camp with YWAM on Monday, we celebrated today. I made a cake, and wrote Moussa's name on it. The others told Moussa it was Amadou's birthday we're celebrating.

The cake was on the table, with the candles lit, and everyone came into the house. We started singing HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Moussa who was totally caught off guard. He had even bought a gift for Amadou!!!

Everybody give him their gifts, with most having bought the same - some candy. I gave him a French NT and some money.

Then we had cake - the kids couldn't get enough of it, and so it was gone very quickly.

I uploaded this little video of us singing to Moussa:

 

back to top

Send me your comment on this blog

 

Mar 2009
Feb 2009
Jan 2009
2008
2007

2006
2005

 

back to top

archive home

Thursday, April 2, 2009

Soaking Session

Wednesday, as we prayed for the release of finances because of our serious financial situation, I felt that we should go on a 3-day fast. That's hard for my kids, and I knew skipping lunch would be the best way to go. That way also, Elisabeth was able to stay home instead of coming over to cook lunch.

The kids weren't too excited about this prospect of course.

So today is day 1 of the fast, and instead of eating, I decided we'd do a one-hour soaking session.

After some instruction, all the kids lay down in their living room and I turned on the worship music. I calculated how many minutes I could pray for each person in one hour, and started my rotation.

I'd sit down next to one kid and pray for him quietly, and then move on to the next. Paul was last. He was the only one who was not asleep by then. And that's okay.

When asking at the family meeting whether they had had any dreams or heard from God, two thirds said yes! WOW! Some of these kids heard from God for the first time!

And they all heard the same - they saw money being multiplied, finances released - each one of them! Praise God!

Last Sunday, our American visitor gave us $200 - which was exactly what was needed to repair the car. And then today, Jean went to the post office to get our mail, and there was a check for $100 from an unexpected source (who's never given before). Unfortunately it will take many weeks to get this, since I have to get that check to the US somehow. I've also had some encouraging emails. But I don't believe promises any more - I can't afford to. I'd rather not get my hopes up for them to be crushed again.

Thanks to the fast, our money will stretch a few days more than expected. And then? I feel like the widow in 1.Kings 17:

"As surely as the LORD your God lives," she replied, "I don't have any bread—only a handful of flour in a jar and a little oil in a jug. I am gathering a few sticks to take home and make a meal for myself and my son, that we may eat it—and die." (v. 17)

A little note: Money given in the US can take weeks to get to me. So as you pray, please pray for people to donate in Austria right now!

back to top

Send me your comment on this blog

 

Mar 2009
Feb 2009
Jan 2009
2008
2007

2006
2005

 

back to top

archive home

Wednesday, April 1, 2009

Prayer Meeting

It's Wednesday, and time for the prayer meeting again. The seriousness of our financial situation was foremost on my mind - enough money to eat another 3 days.

As I went into the meeting, I had a few things on my heart. One was to pray the Lord's prayer together, and we did.

We were praising and worshiping God, and made some prophetic declarations. We extended our hands to the rice and millet, and prophesied multiplication. Then we extended our hands to the money box, and prophesied multiplication. Then we did the same with the bank accounts. We prayed for favor with men, for a release of finances, for open doors and new connections.

Then we entered into the presence of God. At the end of the meeting, Paul closed in prayer by thanking God for His provision.

Theophostic

We're doing 1-2 TPM sessions a day right now, with the kids in our house as well as the street kids, and it's been going well. It's not easy, but we have seen some fruit. Praise God!

Music Teacher

The kids had their second music class - 7 of them. 3 guitar, 3 piano, and 1 drums. Daouda is a great Christian man, and we're lucky to have him. However, that's also an expense of $26 per week. Would anyone like to support this?

back to top