My Journey

Many of us, myself included, take tomorrow for granted.  We plan for tomorrow, next week, next month often to the point of not enjoying or living for the day!  Some of us may clarify our plans by stating "if the Lord wills", but we really believe our plans will work out. Take my plans for this week as an example.  I have been planning a trip to the states for October and November since early this year.  I made my plane reservations in August and had appointments to go to the dentist, eye doctor, dermatologist and to get my hair cut!!  Last week, I began e-mailing friends and others involved in my work here in Tanzania so we could see each other and discuss more future plans.  Then, BOOM! Everything changes at the drop of a hat!  OR I guess I should say a "slip and fall".  The day before I was to board the plane for America, I slipped getting out of the shower and fell with a THUD on the concrete floor.  All plans have now gone out the window! I have been trans

....is found in ways which may be very different that those of your life.  God brings joy to my life every day in many ways.  Knowing that God is with me, surrounding me, leading me, protecting me and strengthening me is my constant joy.  But then he gives me gifts daily which brings special touches of joy. Working side-by-side with the special and wonderful staff of Chimala Mission brings deep joy each day.  So many of these people have become very special to me and will always be in my heart.  We have struggled, cried, laughed and prayed together over the last three years and will hopefully have many more challenges and successes in the future. I am asked frequently to post pictures of my work here and especially pictures with me in them. This is often difficult for two reasons.  When I am working, I am thinking about what I am doing and the people I am helping.  Sometimes, I think afterwards that I should have taken a picture, but the moment is over.  Secondly, some of the thing

I have read several posts from other missionaries over the past several years which have expressed my feelings so very well.  It is difficult for me to write about the challenges of being in the missionary field for several reasons.  First, I am so blessed in all I am doing that it seems petty to talk about the challenges.  Second, missionaries (in my opinion) are often afraid to discuss challenges as it may offend someone or cause them to lose support.  And then there is the ole' saying "Don't air your dirty laundry". A few months back, I was talking with another nurse who had taken some courses in "Being a Missionary".  We were discussing the different challenges which are faced in missions and she told me that on one of her exams was this question - "What is the biggest challenge for the missionary?"  The answer:  "Other missionaries".  I was shocked, but then realized that this is also one of my biggest challenges.  It is a pretty s

The Gospel Chariot has come to Chimala!  For those of who do not know what the Gospel Chariot is, let me give you a little information. This large red truck travels throughout much of Africa helping to spread the Word of God and teach the Gospel.  This truck is carrying a platform, speakers, chairs, and has a baptistry.  When the truck arrives in Chimala, our preachers join the drivers and travel in our area to many.  Just this week at one village, 17 souls were added to the Lord's kingdom and 2 were restored.  Praise His Name!  Spreading the Word of God is our number 1 priority as missionaries in this land. The name of Chimala Mission is known all around this country and especially that of the hospital.  While I cannot stand up and preach, I can help the people of this land with their much needed healthcare through the hospital and our mobile medical clinics.  It is amazing how many people I now know and help each month.  By working with the hospital in improving its

Ok, so here is why 2015 has not been a good year, or even a bad year...but more of a disaster when it comes to me keeping up with my blog.  The first thing is the terrible internet.  It seems to continue to get worse and worse each month.  How I long for the good ole' days of dial-up!  Yeah you heard (or read) me right.  I think dial-up would be more reliable and less irritating that what I am getting here in Chimala.  If we want to keep up with the world, we have to travel an hour to the east or an hour and a half to the west.  BUT, I have decided that I will get you caught up and do my best to continue sending you information.  I do not believe I will be able to send as many pictures as I used to...but will promise to send some.  I continue to request high-speed internet every time I speak to any government official or anyone who wants the hospital to send documents via e-mail.  There are times, we try over, & over, & over & over and still it may take two-three days

Wow, I was terrible about keeping you updated in 2014.  Let's pray I do a better job in 2015.  I must start by telling you that 2014 was a very busy and productive year.  None of the accomplishments listed below would have been possible without those of you who have supported this work.  Let me THANK YOU and ask that you please continue to support us.  If you are not currently a supporter, please consider helping us with this work in 2015. So let me recap 2014 for you in numbers and accomplishments. HOSPITAL IMPROVEMENTS: Purified water system implemented for the hospital Roof built over the water platforms and equipment Added an additional Registration clerk and window for faster service due to increase in patients Laboratory remodel begun.  2 out of 3 rooms are complete including new windows and tables New equipment - CD4 machine and 2 new refrigerators in laboratory Redesign and building new incinerator to handle the large amount of waste we have Added additional ac