what's up

We just made a whirlwind trip to the coast to pick up a few things (including a few packages-woohoo) to make the next 6 weeks in Nairobi feel a bit more homey. We got in the car (too) early Tuesday morning, drove about 8 1/2 hours, met with friends, met with the veterinarian, bought supplies for the house, met with a man about his goats (more on that later), picked up packages and waited patiently (kind of) until we reached the house to open them, gathered needed items (including the next 6 weeks of school books -don't know if you know this about us but we have a lot of books), dropped off one of our dogs at a friend's place so our friend can fatten him up (the dog), slept a bit, loaded the car on Thursday and left at a time I am usually not awake to make the 8 1/2 hour trip home. WHEW. I learned that I am not as young as I use to be. I am dog tired (what does that even mean?) It was great to get home and see friends and pick up some things.

It was so hot on the coast. We have essentially missed the really hot part of the hot season this year. I guess if you are going to be away from home for multiple months that is the time to do it!

We continue to have peace about where we are. The doctor is keeping us here to find a balance in Chris's meds. He needs one med to keep his triglycerides down but that med causes painful gastritis, so we are trying a gentler drug. During my times alone with God in His word He has been reminding me of His "faithful love". We are trusting Him for the future and resting in that faithful love.

Balut...

is a fertilized duck (or chicken) egg with a nearly-developed embryo inside that is boiled and eaten in the shell. They are common, everyday food in some countries in Asia, such as in the Philippines, Cambodia, and Vietnam.

Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern featured Balut when Mr. Zimmern visited the Philippines. Chris caught the show and was discussing it with some of our church members. This is what resulted:
We fellowship with some of the best people around. This is one example of the fun we have. After a home group Bible Study, our Filipino friends fixed this delicacy for Chris to try. YUM?!


I have to hand it to him...he really gave it his all. He went for the "whole" experience, biting into the egg...no nibbling for Chris. That's my man. Seriously, I love this about him. He is not afraid to try new things.

...let's just say that Balut will not be on our regular menu.

(Chris had to add this picture...not for the faint of heart!!!)

On a side note...apparently, Balut was a featured food on Fear Factor. Someone turned down $50,000.00 (what I heard) so they wouldn't have to eat it...
my husband did it for kicks (flex those muscles, Chris!).

Happy Birthday, Chris!

I have no idea how I got these photos to place this way!?! Oh well...

February 25, 2008
Chris celebrated his birthday at Benihana's...YUM! Some friends joined us and graciously took pictures (I forgot my camera...hello!) The kiddos loved watching the chefs do their thing and ate up the delicious food.
The kiddos say that some of their favorite things about Daddy are...
He makes me laugh
He's funny
He makes me smile
He likes to take us fun places
He loves us so much
He loves God
He has a loving heart for people (around the world)
He preaches for God
He's really nice
He's my buddy
He's handsome
He's a Christian

I would have to agree.

Okay. I must brag on my husband. He is a patient man. He is a wonderful father. He patiently trained Zephan at the beach. Zephan was screaming at the beginning of our trip to the beach. He didn't like the sand. Chris made him walk, didn't cave for his crying, persevered and helped Zephan learn to be content (at least) at the beach. He eventually even enjoyed playing in the sand! Thanks, babe!

INDIA

Chris and buddy, Andrew, visiting with locals. This has been such a fun aspect of the trip.

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~Jamie