tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-168607682024-03-07T08:47:20.554+01:00Africakid and the Worldafricakidandtheworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664490603920452905noreply@blogger.comBlogger508125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16860768.post-30352918295738650562016-05-04T23:59:00.000+02:002016-05-05T00:00:23.823+02:00Sparklers<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br />
</div>Last week’s prompt for the Comeback Bloggers: write about an event (or events) that revealed to you the world was not simple, that moved you from being a child to being an adult.<br />
<br />
During my younger years in Burundi, I sensed the tension between different Burundian groups at times, but just in small ways. I’m not really sure when I realized the enormity of that conflict, which ultimately led to many killings and caused neighbors and friends to flee to other countries. <br />
<br />
One event which remains especially vivid in my memory is finding out soldiers had taken away our African pastor and his sons. They were never seen again, and presumably died at the hands of the government. Such happenings made me wonder, “Why them and not me?” <br />
<br />
Initially, my poem started out with a fun image, lighting sparklers in the back yard, and then evolved to include thoughts on “vanishing.”<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilPGae6ocRAXNNpokLvJH95GxLb_ny_1XAj4IwF3wuYPZ9OqpMGJH9ft8tMck20D3TH7fZ7Pzb9IT8QzEasPWMkdQwfZSIK3_gZFljyZBsJ8XHVUlUoqskKqkUchbOXhiKvKNs_Q/s1600/P1040137.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilPGae6ocRAXNNpokLvJH95GxLb_ny_1XAj4IwF3wuYPZ9OqpMGJH9ft8tMck20D3TH7fZ7Pzb9IT8QzEasPWMkdQwfZSIK3_gZFljyZBsJ8XHVUlUoqskKqkUchbOXhiKvKNs_Q/s400/P1040137.jpg" /></a></div><br />
FOURTH OF JULY IN BURUNDI <br />
<br />
<br />
At twilight<br />
the sly Southern Cross<br />
beams,<br />
convinces us <br />
it’s brighter than <br />
our Northern <br />
constellations.<br />
<br />
Mother takes us outside<br />
to celebrate America’s Fourth,<br />
continents away<br />
from grandparents<br />
uncles, aunts,<br />
cousins.<br />
<br />
Sparklers fizz.<br />
Our tilted faces<br />
here<br />
and gone<br />
there<br />
and vanished.<br />
<br />
How many faces<br />
vanished<br />
over the border<br />
into Tanzania<br />
just across <br />
rows of mountains<br />
filling our picture window?<br />
<br />
Each of us<br />
children <br />
screams<br />
“Light another!”<br />
<br />
Night closes in.<br />
<br />
We clutch<br />
the thin wires<br />
as sparklers<br />
sputter<br />
and fade.<br />
africakidandtheworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664490603920452905noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16860768.post-15594126736559272822016-04-27T01:07:00.002+02:002016-04-27T01:50:48.973+02:00Once, Far From Home<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggiCV0xkK1Rm4wrqr4yxJStwUklF1Hb58ZdhvQkXT3NT_UoWtDA5IsGSxz-UVXT0r1f5hmiqecmO575xIK74MTqf4d46FrSf9mrn5ki1RsD5kmNcfxQ8bbsPuZYlKPpEwauzTEHQ/s1600/IMG_0742.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggiCV0xkK1Rm4wrqr4yxJStwUklF1Hb58ZdhvQkXT3NT_UoWtDA5IsGSxz-UVXT0r1f5hmiqecmO575xIK74MTqf4d46FrSf9mrn5ki1RsD5kmNcfxQ8bbsPuZYlKPpEwauzTEHQ/s400/IMG_0742.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Recently, an online friend asked me to join her group of “Comeback Bloggers,” and our initial post was supposed to be about why we started blogging in the first place. An intriguing question, since I’d never fully thought through my reasons for beginning Africakid and the World.<br />
<br />
In 2005, far from home, I decided to start blogging. I'd already been reading other people's blogs when we moved to Germany, and starting my own personal blog seemed like a good way to stay in touch with family and friends back in the States. I could post photos and commentary about our daily life in a small German town and be assured of at least one faithful reader (my mother). <br />
<br />
When we flew overseas with our two youngest children in 2004, I mistakenly thought "This will be easy for me. After all, I grew up in another country and learned early to adjust to different cultures. And I like meeting new people." As a child, I'd moved several times between the US and Burundi, Africa where my parents worked as missionaries. Then, in my teens, our family spent another year in Burundi. I attended Rift Valley boarding school outside of Nairobi, Kenya and loved that experience too. With Jeff's new job as a communications engineer in Mannheim, Germany, I anticipated an enjoyable and relatively painless transition. <br />
<br />
Well, here’s a quote I understand even better now:<br />
<i><br />
“Assumptions are dangerous things to make, and like all dangerous things to make -- bombs, for instance, or strawberry shortcake -- if you make even the tiniest mistake you can find yourself in terrible trouble. Making assumptions simply means believing things are a certain way with little or no evidence that shows you are correct, and you can see at once how this can lead to terrible trouble. For instance, one morning you might wake up and make the assumption that your bed was in the same place that it always was, even though you would have no real evidence that this was so. But when you got out of your bed, you might discover that it had floated out to sea, and now you would be in terrible trouble all because of the incorrect assumption that you'd made. You can see that it is better not to make too many assumptions, particularly in the morning.” </i><br />
― Lemony Snicket, The Austere Academy<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlhyphenhypheneClpwM-1HYNxxlDQF1FnRE3thjc-uDQlylnTqDBHXiQNHCYZzaRL3Fjp6sYU4GmbnOIHtU6caXzU_lzYNQRALJwnBSZPJxQ6gZ4rE9nnHncVcNS_i6gsARcseJq6uswA2K5g/s1600/Austere_academy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlhyphenhypheneClpwM-1HYNxxlDQF1FnRE3thjc-uDQlylnTqDBHXiQNHCYZzaRL3Fjp6sYU4GmbnOIHtU6caXzU_lzYNQRALJwnBSZPJxQ6gZ4rE9nnHncVcNS_i6gsARcseJq6uswA2K5g/s400/Austere_academy.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Don’t you love the wisdom found in children’s books?<br />
<br />
It truly didn’t occur to me that German culture and Burundian (African) culture are worlds apart in many ways. I struggled the first few years, finding it hard to get to know people in our little village. From my present vantage point, I understand why villagers wouldn’t necessarily care to go out of their way to meet me. Americans moved in and out frequently, due to their military postings, and I’m sure it didn’t seem worthwhile for the townspeople to try and get acquainted—the majority of US citizens would transfer to another place within 1-3 years.<br />
<br />
So, I grew lonely those first months, and began chatting online with folks at Real Live Preacher. Chat rooms were still relatively new, and as soon as my children went to bed, I’d log in and see who was talking. RLP’s chat room filled a bit of my need for authentic dialogue and responsiveness, during a period when I lacked that type of community. Later I became more connected, but early on, those individuals I knew only via the internet acted as true lifesavers!<br />
<br />
Some RLP regulars also blogged, so I had another incentive. If I began to blog, we could keep in touch by reading each other’s posts and commenting. Also, I liked the idea of posting my favorite poems, photos, art and other interests online. A diary of favorite things, available to anyone. <br />
<br />
Eventually, some people who lived on the same street in our little German town reached out in friendship; most on our particular street were either married to someone from another culture or had lived in America for awhile. Their generosity in reaching out inspires me to do the same, when I remember how much their contact meant to me. <br />
<br />
After we returned to the States in 2009, my posts have grown fewer and fewer. Life here is busier, and I also see that a few of my initial motivaters are gone. Regardless, I’m curious to see how weekly prompts from the Comeback Bloggers will shape a new direction for me. This may be only for a season, but if you want to follow along, make yourself comfy and feel free to comment!africakidandtheworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664490603920452905noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16860768.post-79258082414840522542015-07-12T16:31:00.000+02:002015-07-13T05:12:53.095+02:00Columbia Gorge Day Trip<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv0rtdBiqcEhHtjlOCHC3o9Hxde_94f0R0DtIaqGSmDvWByPmczrO0u0IX0jE4LE0CE2pZiFoW1DCDSCNqiy_46JpC8zaeUgUjaBXmgD2AtdOSDdXdcGkSPCJlfV1ucJ9xA3s4lA/s1600/IMG_3531.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv0rtdBiqcEhHtjlOCHC3o9Hxde_94f0R0DtIaqGSmDvWByPmczrO0u0IX0jE4LE0CE2pZiFoW1DCDSCNqiy_46JpC8zaeUgUjaBXmgD2AtdOSDdXdcGkSPCJlfV1ucJ9xA3s4lA/s400/IMG_3531.jpg" /></a></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br />
</div>Jeff and I drove up Columbia River Gorge on the fourth of July with our son David, his wife Emily, and Emily's father. Ellie came along too. We visited <a href="http://www.pfriembeer.com">pFriem Brewery</a> in Hood River for lunch and dogs had to wait outside, so we took turns sitting with her.<br />
<br />
Everyone enjoyed their food and beer, and pFriem's near a river front park, so we caught glimpses of kite sails skimming past and kids climbing rocks. Quite a fun day!<br />
<br />
Along with the coast, Columbia Gorge is my other favorite spot in the Pacific NW. Jeff and I didn't get the chance to visit Crown Point and the Women's Forum Lookout this time, but I plan to go back to take photos soon. We tried to drive to Crown Point, but a small-town 4th of July parade was due to begin and roads would've closed down. Next time.<br />
<br />
More news: We sold our house in May (yay!) and are living in an apartment until our new home is ready in Ridgefield, WA. Ridgefield's 15 minutes north of Vancouver, so not too far away. Once the house is done, take a road trip and come visit!<br />
<br />
africakidandtheworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664490603920452905noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16860768.post-537895026560322892015-03-23T23:37:00.000+01:002015-04-12T17:18:12.651+02:00Selling our Home In Vancouver, WAIf you know of someone who'd like a home in a wonderful, walkable neighborhood with lots of trees, send them to our listing on <a href="http://www.zillow.com/homes/11308-ne-sylvan-ter-vancouver-wa_rb/">Zillow</a>.<br />
<br />
It's time for us to downsize and find a place with fewer stairs and a smaller piece of land. Even so, it's hard to say goodbye to our house on Blueberry Hill. We love our garden area, shed, fish pond with waterfall, rain garden, and plenty of space for lawn and shrubs. There's even an area the previous owners used for rv parking on the side.<br />
<br />
Spread the word if you know of anyone who might be interested.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhutcVQWjzg8Dz3SCloDdysog6kZ1Ua1Wl6V9QUwVFrzzNMeUjorMDYXNKQbo1T5rV1kD-2jssPsjQe0GI9Q9Mjwwd2CYDFVGhwdC-8i6QyAb_uhIrijx1_ZnJ1ZESNeRGYMpgfmA/s1600/IStg4f1ylqfz6p0000000000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhutcVQWjzg8Dz3SCloDdysog6kZ1Ua1Wl6V9QUwVFrzzNMeUjorMDYXNKQbo1T5rV1kD-2jssPsjQe0GI9Q9Mjwwd2CYDFVGhwdC-8i6QyAb_uhIrijx1_ZnJ1ZESNeRGYMpgfmA/s320/IStg4f1ylqfz6p0000000000.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Also, we're only twenty minutes from downtown Portland, Oregon when there's no traffic!africakidandtheworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664490603920452905noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16860768.post-83241689849278449002014-04-18T04:34:00.001+02:002014-04-24T00:26:46.439+02:00Happy from Bujumbura We siblings share many good memories of our visits to Bujumbura, capital city of Burundi. Some of these include: <br />
<br />
--staying at the Cox's guesthouse on trips from our remote mission station<br />
--dipping french fries in mayonnaise at the lakeside cafe<br />
--watching hippos climb out of Lake Tanganyika; we observed from a safe distance<br />
--shopping for flip-flops once a year at Bata Shoes<br />
--checking out books in English from the American Embassy library <br />
<br />
Oh, and sleeping under mosquito nets to escape the ravenous little flies every night (not such a good memory!). I'd be curious to hear what experiences were most memorable for my brother and sisters.<br />
<br />
My brother sent this video link to our entire family. Watch and enjoy a small slice of life in the Bujumbura of today.<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/2nVTalN2Ol0" width="480"></iframe> africakidandtheworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664490603920452905noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16860768.post-83576086619835773842013-08-10T03:32:00.004+02:002013-08-10T03:37:14.300+02:00Out of the Compost Bin?Dessert waitress at Papa Haydn's to us: "It's like a decomposed tiramisu...oops, I mean deconstructed."africakidandtheworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664490603920452905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16860768.post-5492504212646839122013-08-06T04:17:00.000+02:002013-08-06T04:18:59.769+02:00An Ellie MosaicI know it's been forever since I posted. But my last few months have been taken up with two daughters home for the summer and also our adorable new puppy. Introducing Ellie, our new little corgi! I think Murphy would have approved.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZLW6FVT5RXUjA1uq9eXDlPjhXCSX1_xwIGVLnOqChXjFeLnav9u_n_YywSOgTtb7WJqygBIojpK-opgxJMUimxQjJWq1Yu9LjTeWsM3FEZyStjuwdpKof3BRvKheGlFvQdCRAkg/s1600/P1110299.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZLW6FVT5RXUjA1uq9eXDlPjhXCSX1_xwIGVLnOqChXjFeLnav9u_n_YywSOgTtb7WJqygBIojpK-opgxJMUimxQjJWq1Yu9LjTeWsM3FEZyStjuwdpKof3BRvKheGlFvQdCRAkg/s400/P1110299.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicJ1bmu6kbNNvFVCxIUk1yIZrkxRyMt5VKtMiMKq3tXKzUq3pNbKgzZ7fe_XlmSAKwjsQOcVOOhzXFj7p_JOMVzhDi_UwtZyLDUtG_i8CEEO5FDRLz_oIcRmJo77FVv2utUHspvg/s1600/P1110306.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicJ1bmu6kbNNvFVCxIUk1yIZrkxRyMt5VKtMiMKq3tXKzUq3pNbKgzZ7fe_XlmSAKwjsQOcVOOhzXFj7p_JOMVzhDi_UwtZyLDUtG_i8CEEO5FDRLz_oIcRmJo77FVv2utUHspvg/s400/P1110306.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPMtlacx-Yxcsqyff-_tF9Q2G6jyO0a5WNaC1GmbxWeuA6USy1gdJEqvIRVnbq9OF0o1y-2kELRRnZxU5e22a9RWQLHo3jJ8USAoxXIkp2HR7s7mSo-r077DsdHQ7u35km6fsysA/s1600/P1110341.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPMtlacx-Yxcsqyff-_tF9Q2G6jyO0a5WNaC1GmbxWeuA6USy1gdJEqvIRVnbq9OF0o1y-2kELRRnZxU5e22a9RWQLHo3jJ8USAoxXIkp2HR7s7mSo-r077DsdHQ7u35km6fsysA/s400/P1110341.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMNf8Zr-wu1IMVxj9ruKC8ZJCwPs0sV6UO0p6j5CdP29XK1iv8Xnt9OFnaX7WDyoc6Hm2sTYTmh1LkHEXomJYZRu_6oynAyH6z0AK26r53Qp6gGhWzsRnepYxh2Wv589qmwQjElw/s1600/P1110379.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMNf8Zr-wu1IMVxj9ruKC8ZJCwPs0sV6UO0p6j5CdP29XK1iv8Xnt9OFnaX7WDyoc6Hm2sTYTmh1LkHEXomJYZRu_6oynAyH6z0AK26r53Qp6gGhWzsRnepYxh2Wv589qmwQjElw/s400/P1110379.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDyuLc8QA7ALmu8ZTM5VkLU0WUn6fgtej5fGh9m3YYwWkXIKvVSkSETm7H6jV41UOFgizLh9eGo6CE3Dobr7XccI8flhDeGiIeeVww9NeHW82QKzoMfDf7bz_OELQLadBGHWpX9A/s1600/P1110445.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDyuLc8QA7ALmu8ZTM5VkLU0WUn6fgtej5fGh9m3YYwWkXIKvVSkSETm7H6jV41UOFgizLh9eGo6CE3Dobr7XccI8flhDeGiIeeVww9NeHW82QKzoMfDf7bz_OELQLadBGHWpX9A/s400/P1110445.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGIyKOj3mAZlIES46jcjzVzgdIsLzx2omYZhHgmkGNhfpI6HO0YBuOrfi-usEXC97AecfDnBElp9wC2PxRA4wvJo4y0LHGxnDz_8SqIaImykBoNTIL6RqWBzWHIDGg1vLzJ92Icw/s1600/P1110463.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGIyKOj3mAZlIES46jcjzVzgdIsLzx2omYZhHgmkGNhfpI6HO0YBuOrfi-usEXC97AecfDnBElp9wC2PxRA4wvJo4y0LHGxnDz_8SqIaImykBoNTIL6RqWBzWHIDGg1vLzJ92Icw/s400/P1110463.JPG" /></a></div>africakidandtheworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664490603920452905noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16860768.post-43445310666245813472013-05-09T21:41:00.003+02:002013-08-06T04:18:42.884+02:00NewsflashMeet Ellie, our little puppy-to-be! We visited her this last weekend. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid89DHd9Zi-jD8WaAdYkojEMCjWv34ipkOAHHV3iaub9pQveULeadNYZ7yjHYO-OEnI0-3-plFlqos0ELebErpxvrRu-4wkU4yvyvLigNRgjCm6GqQNw1DxFc2s7WkpLF8vDcaEA/s1600/P1110255.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid89DHd9Zi-jD8WaAdYkojEMCjWv34ipkOAHHV3iaub9pQveULeadNYZ7yjHYO-OEnI0-3-plFlqos0ELebErpxvrRu-4wkU4yvyvLigNRgjCm6GqQNw1DxFc2s7WkpLF8vDcaEA/s320/P1110255.JPG" /></a><br />
<br />
I'm ready to hyperventilate, I'm so excited (that may be a slight exaggeration, but not much). She's a Pembroke Welsh Corgi, like Murphy. Can't wait to bring our baby home!africakidandtheworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664490603920452905noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16860768.post-16158963492559603682013-03-31T07:41:00.001+02:002013-03-31T07:41:06.579+02:00Happy Easter<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMDiAaOWysr8cA8cCwShVSZPbq8qmJjK27Ipp-5uWX4fcY4sdU8p2078uwE5QYFJI_nQCalxWBV7SZOZH5MJjRgI5p34RtVIO8xdXjp4oeo8xDhqhHo2_CUnw-_45xqwAg1tLzsg/s1600/P1100129.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMDiAaOWysr8cA8cCwShVSZPbq8qmJjK27Ipp-5uWX4fcY4sdU8p2078uwE5QYFJI_nQCalxWBV7SZOZH5MJjRgI5p34RtVIO8xdXjp4oeo8xDhqhHo2_CUnw-_45xqwAg1tLzsg/s320/P1100129.jpg" /></a><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br />
</div>Christ is Risen. He is risen indeed!africakidandtheworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664490603920452905noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16860768.post-35901655649370490022012-11-02T22:27:00.002+01:002012-11-02T22:31:42.113+01:00Keeping the Feast<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br />
</div>I've been blog-friends with Milton, who blogs at <a href="http://donteatalone.com/">Don't Eat Alone</a>, for quite a few years. Like me, Milton spent his early years in Africa, and he also writes poetry. Recently Milton published his first book: <a href="http://www.indiebound.org/book/9780819227898">Keeping the Feast</a>. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtY8lA8h0uxmpTO4ej2c8ZxGfdxhFzkbCPLaFx7bv8Jz8ZfhOnuYdGEunvscyellKNKC1xxKikDW5Ed2yFimPqjGj5O9k3Blb9gX2ZJwZw-xZq5zGwkh7skLo8E-jKG6KrgCbI_Q/s1600/9780819227898.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtY8lA8h0uxmpTO4ej2c8ZxGfdxhFzkbCPLaFx7bv8Jz8ZfhOnuYdGEunvscyellKNKC1xxKikDW5Ed2yFimPqjGj5O9k3Blb9gX2ZJwZw-xZq5zGwkh7skLo8E-jKG6KrgCbI_Q/s400/9780819227898.jpg" /></a></div><br />
As he says, "This book about what nourishes us: food, faith, family, and friends, and how all of those elements are essential ingredients of Communion--in fact, how every meal of our lives holds an invitation to the Sacred Meal."<br />
<br />
I forgot to say that Milton's a chef, and has worked as a youth pastor as well. Who better to write about feasting, faith, and friends?africakidandtheworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664490603920452905noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16860768.post-88236669766927722932012-11-01T19:32:00.001+01:002012-11-01T19:32:16.146+01:00New Faces<a href="http://twitpic.com/b9fib4#.UJK_-ovtFw0.blogger">Our little foster puppy for a few weeks (courtesy of Dad and Mary)!</a>africakidandtheworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664490603920452905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16860768.post-43449300030857504552012-09-09T17:42:00.001+02:002012-09-09T17:42:04.812+02:00A Quiet Moment<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYTFX0dAapeG0EY_AZjLyPipFCGnG5HUSvUGPADuhIEnZyhbCQffnKv0zwUqMc3ohO3SJp7XsFqUBy0XvG_jr49u5l549IAzK-BaIdyJdx5kR8a5KT463aoKQxlj6rPsBjgZ_zgQ/s1600/P1100561.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="317" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYTFX0dAapeG0EY_AZjLyPipFCGnG5HUSvUGPADuhIEnZyhbCQffnKv0zwUqMc3ohO3SJp7XsFqUBy0XvG_jr49u5l549IAzK-BaIdyJdx5kR8a5KT463aoKQxlj6rPsBjgZ_zgQ/s400/P1100561.JPG" /></a></div><br />
Now you know where I got my love for reading. From Dad, and also Mom. Isn't that the way it often works?<br />
<br />
Of course teachers can play a big part, and grandparents, and librarians. Anyone who shows a child the many worlds to be entered simply through cracking open a book (or e-book, nowadays).<br />
<br />
How'd you learn to enjoy reading? africakidandtheworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664490603920452905noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16860768.post-54846278215330189642012-08-24T05:18:00.000+02:002012-08-24T05:19:41.229+02:00Murphy's 14 Years<br />
I waited a long time to post this--but last month we said goodbye to our sweet corgi dog, Murphy. As Anna said, he was "sassy till the end." <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDp91ihUPalIeKLE0N1ZvGbTKlU9oEIcUOwmRtaoZNY5wt56OOEh8hF2Yjpv4oF8oHa-nwfLbbwoPBAIjMMw_gaVnl8evBAYTYsX8lXBl2UKrVCo8FT-PDiza3eQK4CEsDiapriQ/s1600/P1100426.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="307" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDp91ihUPalIeKLE0N1ZvGbTKlU9oEIcUOwmRtaoZNY5wt56OOEh8hF2Yjpv4oF8oHa-nwfLbbwoPBAIjMMw_gaVnl8evBAYTYsX8lXBl2UKrVCo8FT-PDiza3eQK4CEsDiapriQ/s400/P1100426.jpg" /></a></div><br />
When the phone rings, no one's barking at us to hurry up and answer it. As we're going out the door, no doggie nips at our heels to move us along. If Jeff accidentally drops goldfish crackers on the floor while he's making his lunch, no one rushes over to gobble up the crumbs. And most of all, no velvety Murphy ears to scratch...they were the softest ears around!<br />
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Love you, Murphy. Since we had you in our lives, I'm forever a corgi fan. africakidandtheworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664490603920452905noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16860768.post-38807802163669859072012-06-27T00:12:00.000+02:002012-06-27T16:44:41.698+02:00Bridge of Hope<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br />
</div>At <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thejusticeconference">The Justice Conference</a> in February, I found out about a group helping children through an organization called <a href="http://www.gfa.org/sponsorachild/the-dalits/">Bridge of Hope</a>. Today I spoke to Steward, one of their volunteers, about what the group's doing in India and other Asian countries. The young man called just as I was about to sit down, drink my tea, and read the Oregonian. After I got off the phone, it struck me how differently I live than most of these children, who often labor long hours for a bit of food. Many of them live in fear of sexual predators and struggle to obtain health care and minimal education. <br />
<br />
I'm not sure how I'm meant to be involved yet. There are multiple places I can help out, and only so much time and money. But at least I can spread awareness. That's why I linked to Bridge of Hope. <br />
<br />
Thinking about these children called to mind a poem I wrote a few years ago. It's about a Burundian friend and his little girls. <br />
<br />
My prayer -- may all children, male and female, know what it is to be safe and cared for by adults they trust.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheLdz2BDb1MhRhEBTjcTvdGcGGhljiRKRiicuRmooHpgkH1dlXYDapmvSZkV7aIUsJm_m0gh6o12sedyYCvhrZQ3Lm4wp6hRSYL6pJQcQ6mvRZS_1ydtilpnJY_xM6QD7lMcDB1w/s1600/LittleGirl--Rwanda.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheLdz2BDb1MhRhEBTjcTvdGcGGhljiRKRiicuRmooHpgkH1dlXYDapmvSZkV7aIUsJm_m0gh6o12sedyYCvhrZQ3Lm4wp6hRSYL6pJQcQ6mvRZS_1ydtilpnJY_xM6QD7lMcDB1w/s400/LittleGirl--Rwanda.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
SINDAMUZI’S LITTLE GIRLS<br />
<br />
All dressed up<br />
for Sunday night --<br />
beautiful thick hair <br />
frizzed high,<br />
batik wraps: purple, <br />
yellow, magenta. <br />
Sindamuzi’s little girls <br />
are African orchids<br />
beginning to bloom,<br />
iridescent moths <br />
hovering <br />
at their father’s elbow,<br />
lit candles<br />
aglow<br />
in the dusky <i>rugo</i>.<br />
<br />
<br />
Kirundi words:<br />
*<i>Rugo</i> -- a home and yard, usually enclosed by a fence<br />
<br />africakidandtheworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664490603920452905noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16860768.post-33062170674798013342012-04-25T06:46:00.002+02:002012-04-25T07:03:25.580+02:00The Walkabout Grand FinaleI’ve truly enjoyed my role as Walkabout Ambassador for Weil Footwear the last 28 days. Today is officially the final day of the Walkabout, but I plan to keep walking and stay in touch with the other ambassadors, who are spread across the US! <br />
<br />
Some of the benefits I've received from the Walkabout: <br />
<br />
First, I find it easier to stay motivated when I’m surrounded by others who love to get out and pound the pavement or hike park trails. During the last four weeks I received encouragement from forty-plus virtual <a href="http://healthyfootnotes.com/2012/04/20/ambassador-inspiration/">walking buddies</a>!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIZFsH8fUjjnQOLzzyWv2tfnCmOBF2_UE_k0uNmtT6cWlswAv_vk6K9uKJPobSs_40VO3mIiLMCwMnu9K-RerNunMiH4odtRKtnvQ5rg9UHyIi2jgqRCmsX0gIw8D0-orkodNcKQ/s1600/P1100190.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIZFsH8fUjjnQOLzzyWv2tfnCmOBF2_UE_k0uNmtT6cWlswAv_vk6K9uKJPobSs_40VO3mIiLMCwMnu9K-RerNunMiH4odtRKtnvQ5rg9UHyIi2jgqRCmsX0gIw8D0-orkodNcKQ/s400/P1100190.JPG" /></a></div><br />
Also, I appreciated the Walkabout emphasis on simplicity--all I needed was an excellent pair of walking shoes. No pressure to buy a gym membership, lots of spandex, or an expensive treadmill. My only crucial piece of equipment? Some <a href="http://www.weilbeing.com/women/balance-lace-up-walker.html">extra comfortable shoes</a> (provided by Weil Footwear, but now that I see how comfortable they are, I'll be replacing them when this pair wears out). <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXewNNQiT-dhSebX5N3Ne_XI1hcmxXSxQ4cBghNDFh6ks_04aSHxrpdoixif04k8sl-wiorFydWBqCGz5SDFhkJs4WHn3YHxDECXvspnvF8buBwgXeRItkFt3r9IhGBU1j8KIJoA/s1600/P1090907.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXewNNQiT-dhSebX5N3Ne_XI1hcmxXSxQ4cBghNDFh6ks_04aSHxrpdoixif04k8sl-wiorFydWBqCGz5SDFhkJs4WHn3YHxDECXvspnvF8buBwgXeRItkFt3r9IhGBU1j8KIJoA/s400/P1090907.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Another thing I love about walking is how it keeps me closer to nature and the changing seasons. In our Western cities, a relatively new phenomenon called <a href="http://www.orionmagazine.org/index.php/articles/review/6408">nature deficit disorder</a> is emerging. <a href="http://richardlouv.com/">Richard Louv</a>, who coined the term, says “The more high-tech our lives become, the more nature we need.” Lots of folks in the medical world are beginning to support the idea that time spent outdoors contributes to our overall health. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2YyzjXk-ZI-78Lfx1TG2kt-tRCJkrB6C_2KjDGmtMpACp9VWv9Wb-xKAzgkRH4MWHOVhpQqtcIb07Fb0-NcPOgVmtisoHyN55pJHoBtTRdQ6DbUblWoXJLS-vNmBmbk2C6ICqLg/s1600/P1100271.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2YyzjXk-ZI-78Lfx1TG2kt-tRCJkrB6C_2KjDGmtMpACp9VWv9Wb-xKAzgkRH4MWHOVhpQqtcIb07Fb0-NcPOgVmtisoHyN55pJHoBtTRdQ6DbUblWoXJLS-vNmBmbk2C6ICqLg/s400/P1100271.JPG" /></a></div><br />
Murphy and I challenge you to get out and walk in the month of May! If you live in the Vancouver/Portland area, message me and we can meet on the waterfront for an invigorating stroll.<br />
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<br />africakidandtheworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664490603920452905noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16860768.post-64301215069760845452012-04-17T02:30:00.002+02:002012-04-17T02:30:48.268+02:00Seattle Shots<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaR2TI5RooLGaAXgJczv2QEUu6q7tP5TnobgzG1ZzpaxgBE2PtHcPbJ1vXhSkJa3wbLwGo8DWM7CtqIK84WJvob1_phZySxvqP3mn64sIgv1d0sB3a4tkEbhuxMB0jfhQ2Fl2OBA/s1600/P1090400.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="291" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaR2TI5RooLGaAXgJczv2QEUu6q7tP5TnobgzG1ZzpaxgBE2PtHcPbJ1vXhSkJa3wbLwGo8DWM7CtqIK84WJvob1_phZySxvqP3mn64sIgv1d0sB3a4tkEbhuxMB0jfhQ2Fl2OBA/s400/P1090400.JPG" /></a></div><br />
This weekend I got a chance to walk around Seattle before I picked up our daughter from university there. When I'm walking in a city, one of my favorite things to do is take photos of public art. This whimsical mermaid decorates an iron gate in downtown Seattle.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Db_5CX8OPTevHYF6o40m711fioA0BWwCOpW0JplmgWvv7lvfEoNggmCJzS6VWakMd59g2IQxhoCd1fmtT8dPWX77v2sXJL5PUig19AtNESMviJrCDmUoWneHnN_ASCl_pAMz6Q/s1600/P1090406.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="246" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Db_5CX8OPTevHYF6o40m711fioA0BWwCOpW0JplmgWvv7lvfEoNggmCJzS6VWakMd59g2IQxhoCd1fmtT8dPWX77v2sXJL5PUig19AtNESMviJrCDmUoWneHnN_ASCl_pAMz6Q/s400/P1090406.JPG" /></a></div><br />
Don't you love the skyline? I took this photo a few months ago in a park that overlooks the city. Hope I remember how to find the way back--this would be a great place to take photos through spring, summer, fall, and winter.africakidandtheworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664490603920452905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16860768.post-85820415927088158612012-04-15T17:42:00.000+02:002012-04-15T20:04:05.833+02:00The Voice of the Turtle"For, lo, the winter is past, <br />
the rain is over and gone; <br />
the flowers appear on the earth; <br />
the time of the singing of birds is come, <br />
and the voice of the turtle <br />
is heard in our land..."<br />
--Song of Solomon 2:11-12 (KJV)<br />
<br />
Yesterday on my walk, I saw turtles out again at Salmon Creek. A sure sign of spring!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLQP5W4Mrqqx9JuyhSa0eITa98ODvalZexrzYWUdy-beHPmTJrPZWsL5T-nPx13rz3H_ga70qquCpxcLoWYs6hvOhTMRm_rZmSjhydEOJ3GcWbqOProQ8s9Vu72EsIHiMN1EgZNg/s1600/P1100264.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="331" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLQP5W4Mrqqx9JuyhSa0eITa98ODvalZexrzYWUdy-beHPmTJrPZWsL5T-nPx13rz3H_ga70qquCpxcLoWYs6hvOhTMRm_rZmSjhydEOJ3GcWbqOProQ8s9Vu72EsIHiMN1EgZNg/s400/P1100264.JPG" /></a></div><br />
As a child, I loved the idea of turtles vocalizing, especially since our pet box turtle never uttered a sound. It made me think of an entire chorus of turtles, singing with utter un-selfconsciousness. <br />
<br />
Now, of course, I know the poem refers to turtledoves (in the original Hebrew)...<br />
but part of me still wishes I could hear the turtles' song.<br />
<br />africakidandtheworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664490603920452905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16860768.post-38071106215983652462012-04-09T19:40:00.002+02:002012-04-10T16:48:05.636+02:00From the Operating Room to the ForestMy Dad, who's almost 84, still gets out and walks whenever he can. He's a great example for the rest of us! <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJqfXHTL29sSjqXj_OEdWVyRlosPQ3__g956aW09RAbHhtztzlJABpLrO5n2rxZAobuZtccPIK43Oi-pBTi_R_kBCx9MluvrtCVRhpaa495OLfagRcQYrpyWN-hp5Cr1lls-dVpg/s1600/DadSurgery0001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="265" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJqfXHTL29sSjqXj_OEdWVyRlosPQ3__g956aW09RAbHhtztzlJABpLrO5n2rxZAobuZtccPIK43Oi-pBTi_R_kBCx9MluvrtCVRhpaa495OLfagRcQYrpyWN-hp5Cr1lls-dVpg/s400/DadSurgery0001.jpg" /></a></div><br />
When I was ten, my family moved back to the States from Africa. Dad didn't have a huge amount of free time because he was starting up a surgical practice and also often on call at the Woodland Park emergency room. But weekends, if he didn't have to operate or take phone calls from a drunk lady who thought she'd been bitten by a vampire (true story!), Dad planned hikes for us--to Multnomah Falls or the coast range and other scenic spots nearby.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf7aOvV5H7t5TnHQcfwSs00vo2pZLsoFEXfpjLicFz1lotdHz9-DKKuQjZ4jaI5qTaGHhs7BXPomKhIf5Unep3SStzMB4iQOdjQToDWlOgjhy726Wxr_lv1MZsdDKAGlJ3OlH79w/s1600/GorgeHike720001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="349" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf7aOvV5H7t5TnHQcfwSs00vo2pZLsoFEXfpjLicFz1lotdHz9-DKKuQjZ4jaI5qTaGHhs7BXPomKhIf5Unep3SStzMB4iQOdjQToDWlOgjhy726Wxr_lv1MZsdDKAGlJ3OlH79w/s400/GorgeHike720001.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Some of my best memories involve the smell of pine needles and hiking Columbia Gorge trails along steep drop-offs. <br />
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Who are your favorite walking partners from childhood or adulthood?africakidandtheworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664490603920452905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16860768.post-49036026227726681162012-04-08T18:15:00.001+02:002012-04-10T02:29:57.114+02:00Happy Easter!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgItP4KHipY1EDOgUe5tRrEJCCineJ3hIaR_-r-X8d8Z-l4-YLp8OMlQc8qK-wbCYbLcSnKwfPT2z6B5GJxq-NIDcmU5BN0okPK1zx_dPuozD_PvosmkL5sBFI5aTVD3QpILeEt3Q/s1600/P1100021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgItP4KHipY1EDOgUe5tRrEJCCineJ3hIaR_-r-X8d8Z-l4-YLp8OMlQc8qK-wbCYbLcSnKwfPT2z6B5GJxq-NIDcmU5BN0okPK1zx_dPuozD_PvosmkL5sBFI5aTVD3QpILeEt3Q/s400/P1100021.JPG" /></a></div><br />
"Do not abandon yourselves to despair. We are the Easter people and hallelujah is our song."<br />
--John Paul IIafricakidandtheworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664490603920452905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16860768.post-46581060312922735532012-04-06T18:26:00.000+02:002012-04-06T18:30:47.340+02:00Just in Time<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmU_cvR1-Z99IYQmnRdyHBetq43B3usaPrJe7LuBBMV5X-r7WV6fUJHv9ihGckyqj1YZRrT2LXF_XicKhRITGBb7PE1xSlUUy_LkioFPqrW3Z71pc2GQ6hVKsA7MjH-5kYi_KzQw/s1600/P1100247.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="327" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmU_cvR1-Z99IYQmnRdyHBetq43B3usaPrJe7LuBBMV5X-r7WV6fUJHv9ihGckyqj1YZRrT2LXF_XicKhRITGBb7PE1xSlUUy_LkioFPqrW3Z71pc2GQ6hVKsA7MjH-5kYi_KzQw/s400/P1100247.JPG" /></a></div><br />
So excited--my Weil Walking Shoes just arrived & fit wonderfully! Now to break them in. My original package included some <a href="http://www.weilbeing.com/women/rhythm-walker.html">Rhythm Walkers</a>, but they were a bit snug. These <a href="http://www.weilbeing.com/women/balance-lace-up-walker.html">Balance Walkers</a> feel comfortable and seem to have excellent arch support. When I looked online at reviews from others who've ordered them, people raved about the built-in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Orthotics">orthotics</a>. [Big word alert: orthotics = corrective shoe inserts, at least in everyday use]<br />
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My feet will match our Easter eggs! If I could only find four little Murphy-size sneakers in the same color. <br />africakidandtheworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664490603920452905noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16860768.post-24711840409830315192012-04-01T00:27:00.001+02:002012-04-01T00:29:25.725+02:00Spring at Salmon CreekIt's spring at Salmon Creek! Jeff and I walked until we came to a stop. The trail had flooded. All this rain we've gotten in the last few days fed the creek and it detoured onto every low-lying piece of land in its path.<br />
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We glimpsed cormorants fishing in the water and an eagle atop a very tall tree. Also heard tons of birds singing their little throats out. Yes, I believe spring is here to stay.africakidandtheworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664490603920452905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16860768.post-63300074812600330512012-03-31T05:02:00.000+02:002012-03-31T09:47:25.941+02:00Portland Scenes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUgl486FHdnO7c_TyBANGiZBW7rI3mJkyPBWozfUkgvhZf3D7HDDnYsW7-0BH0zb9nUfkVFRsqtTd-N7Xd1zCXOX1whRyWy46q-G5vD8Qwd6aDU43wqrCBaaWduJrFaQhNyyV9cg/s1600/P1100109.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUgl486FHdnO7c_TyBANGiZBW7rI3mJkyPBWozfUkgvhZf3D7HDDnYsW7-0BH0zb9nUfkVFRsqtTd-N7Xd1zCXOX1whRyWy46q-G5vD8Qwd6aDU43wqrCBaaWduJrFaQhNyyV9cg/s400/P1100109.JPG" /></a></div><br />
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Attended the <a href="http://www.bluelikejazzthemovie.com/">Blue Like Jazz</a> movie preview today in Portland with my sister Susan and her family. I arrived about 40 minutes early, so it was a good time for a walk before the line twined around the block. <br />
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We sat up in the balcony and thoroughly enjoyed the movie. Blue Like Jazz premieres April 13th in many cities across the US. Highly recommended!<br />
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Afterwards, I found <a href="http://stumptowncoffee.com/location/stark/">Stumptown</a> coffee shop for a lovely strong latte. Then home across the bridge.africakidandtheworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664490603920452905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16860768.post-11837576038038262242012-03-30T06:06:00.001+02:002012-03-30T06:09:59.454+02:00Around the Cul-De-SacI typed in the title of this post, and then googled cul-de-sac on a whim. The original meaning made me giggle!<br />
<i>Cul-de-sac (literally "butt of bag" in Catalan) is an expression of Catalan origin</i>, says <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cul-de-sac">Wikipedia</a>.<br />
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This photo is called "Still Life of Murphy & Forsythia." Murphy could care less about what cul-de-sac means, he just wants to leap up and finish our walk.<br />
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We managed to take a walkabout between rain drops this afternoon. But our rain garden grew mighty full. Should I be watching for an invasion of bullfrogs?<br />
<br />africakidandtheworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664490603920452905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16860768.post-80748086804108505292012-03-28T19:11:00.001+02:002012-03-30T06:12:01.125+02:00Keeping a Gratitude JournalPart of the wellness package I received for participating in the 28 day Walkabout included Dr. Weil's book, <a href="http://www.elliottbaybook.com/book/9780316129442">Spontaneous Happiness</a>. One section of the book in particular caught my attention. In his chapter on emotional well-being, Weil speaks about the benefits of feeling and expressing gratitude. One concrete way we can start doing this more is by keeping a gratitude journal. <br />
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On <a href="http://www.drweil.com/">his website</a>, Dr. Weil refers to author G.K. Chesterton, who wrote: <i>You say grace before meals. All right. But I say grace before the concert and the opera, and grace before the play and pantomime, and grace before I open a book, and grace before sketching, painting, swimming, fencing, boxing, walking, playing, dancing and grace before I dip the pen in the ink. </i><br />
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Then Weil goes on to remark, "I suspect Chesterton didn't do this automatically. He knew that, like forgiveness, gratitude can and should be cultivated through diligent practice."<br />
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What a concept! We can truly transform the way we perceive life through this daily practice.<br />
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On that note, a few of the things I'm grateful for today:<br />
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*Hundreds of muscles, joints and ligaments -- so I can skip, walk, bike (and crawl, if need be). <br />
*My husband -- who is always supportive of my writing and volunteer time!<br />
*Danielle, David & Emily, Anna -- you give me much joy.<br />
*Poetry -- it speaks to feelings deeper than words.<br />
*Green leaves and buds, the flowers just beginning to bloom here in the NW -- nature's art.<br />
*God's love -- always startling & fresh.<br />
*Strong black tea with milk -- mmmm.<br />
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What have you found to be grateful for today?africakidandtheworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664490603920452905noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16860768.post-4462314890849510822012-03-25T06:27:00.000+02:002012-03-30T06:11:23.303+02:00Join Me on a 30 Day WalkaboutI'm excited to let you know that I'll be participating as an Ambassador in the <a href="http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/orthaheelusa-and-dr-andrew-weil-integrative-footwear-launch-28-day-walkabout-campaign-139962053.html">Walkabout 28-day Quest for Good Health</a>! The campaign starts Monday, March 27th with a kickoff tea in New York. <a href="http://healthyfootnotes.com/2012/03/20/meet-our-ambassadors/">Fifty ambassadors</a> chosen from all over the US will blog, tweet, and post updates about their experiences walking 30 minutes a day. <br />
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You know how we love to involve Murphy in whatever's going on in our household--so I thought he could model the official walkabout shirt I received in the welcome package, along with a boomerang, to add some Aussie flavor. Murphy'll accompany me on some walks, although probably only ten minutes or so. Now that he's almost fourteen years old, Murphy's slowing down. But fear not! He still tries to chase neighborhood squirrels, even if his back legs don't always move in sync.<br />
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So, if you're looking for a fitness challenge, join me this next month on the Walkabout. We could be virtual walking buddies! Let me know if you're interested by leaving a comment, and I'll link to your blog or site.africakidandtheworldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664490603920452905noreply@blogger.com3