Last Week in Review, briefly

It was a busy week.  We enjoyed having our VC friends here, and we are thankful for the encouragement they were (and still are) to us.

Conversing after dinner at Carrigan's house

Guys walking out in the countryside

Group picture before their departure

Uncle Todd goodbye hug

We have word that Todd, John and Matt made it home safely.  Thanks to everyone who helped make their trip possible...and a special thanks to them for going the distance to be with us here!

After saying farewell Friday afternoon, we were looking for some distraction.  

What better than a camel ride?

Gracie was very excited about the "idea" of a camel ride.  Once Eli mounted with Marc, she was begging and pleading (on verge of tears) to "ride camal."  So we hoisted her up; she smiled and laughed until...the camel actually moved.  Gracie did NOT like the camel's bumpy gait.  Thankfully, she was content (enough) riding in the Ergo, so we were able to continue on with the caravan.

After the morning ride, we had a relaxing but productive afternoon blanching, grating, and freezing carrots as well as chopping, blending, cooking and freezing tomatoes.  We are trying to make the most of the current abundance of fresh produce and store up for the coming hot, dry season when fresh veggies will be scarce.  We've been quite busy in the kitchen (which proves to be a never ending task); will try to post some pictures of our latest culinary adventures soon.

Saturday evening was a special treat: Valentine's Dinner!

Four single ladies worked very hard making this dinner special.  They thought of everything from babysitting to table decor to music with candlelight, plus they prepared a 3 course meal for us that ended with fondue!

Thanks ladies!

Sunday we all went to church wearing our new outfits.

We are pleased with the tailor's handiwork!

We took a new route to church this week, trying to steer clear of the main village street (often busy with motos, trucks, carts, and foot traffic).  It was nice and relaxing to stay on the outskirts.  On the return trip home, we encountered some local livestock:

and kept our distance (look at those horns!).

A few other random happenings:

Gracie loves helping with chores.

She's also become quite fond of her camel.  Yesterday she told Dean "camal hungee" and proceeded to feed him onions (freshly picked for us by our gardener).  

She definitely keeps us entertained with her creativity and budding vocabulary.

Today we had a surprise visit from the US Ambassador to Niger.  

She was very kind and is supportive of the work here at Galmi Hospital.

Marc greeting Ambassador

Dean has been having some exciting conversations (and prayers) at the hospital, so stay tuned for a hospital update from him soon!

Sai anjima ("until later"),

DD&G