As if we didn't already have enough fun, crazy, and amazing things happen here with our team in Otutulu, today Stuart Chapman got to lead his first day of kids camp. Stuart helped put together a variety of activities and crafts for all of the kids. We split them into 2 age groups, as they go to school in the different age groups; age 3-8 in the morning, and the older students in the afternoon. So, we got the reverse of that, the older kids first, and then the younger ones in the afternoon.
We got together in one of the 3 abandoned chicken coops behind the orphanage. Stuart taught the students how to say "Howdy" today, and got some good video with plenty of volume for Doug Burford!! Too fun. One of the daughters of the orphanage director, Daniel Edeh, was our interpreter for Stuart's teaching time. She had to be taught the meaning of one word in particular that Stuart kept using that she didn't understand. Omele (O-Mey-Ley) didn't know what Stuart meant when he kept saying "y'all".
We split the kids into 3 groups, and had them do two activities, and a craft. The craft for today was tye dye, which was a big hit. It's funny to see the team walk around with dyed hands! I hope we will be able to put up pictures later on of 150 tye dyed shirts that the kids might be wearing! The activities were field games (lead by yours truly, with help from Doug Dorsey and my lovely wife Adrienne) We introduced the game of crab soccer - which translates as kakara futbol, and also red light/green light, or Lo/dago! I wasn't sure who enjoyed the games more; the kids, or the aunties and other adults from the community that were spectators! We all had a blast, despite being tremendously hot in the afternoon.
The other fun event was the activity of bubbles. I don't know how many hundreds of little tubes of bubble soap we brought, but we obviously didn't get enough. The tears, and scuffles over who still had the bubble solution left was evident to all!
The other neat activity of the day was the mid-day trip to swim in the river. A group from our team took the top students (7 of them) on a 10 minute hike to wade into a small clearing of a nearby river. It was very refreshing for us to be able to cool off, and for the kids, it was a great treat and reward for their hard work. It was funny though that after 20 minutes of swimming, the kids were all shivering cold and had goose bumps on their skin, while the team was greatly enjoying the comfort of the river. It was also a neat walk through the countryside, as we passed a burned off area that some folks farming had cleared to plant crops. At one end of the field was a 10' high termite hill. It dwarfed Stuart, to give you an idea of how tall it was.
Well, that about does it except for one big thing. We will be doing another clinic at the orphanage tomorrow. The word has spread, and we are expecting 3 distinguished guests. The first is the area commissioner of women and children affairs. The second is the local judicial magistrate. Both of these people are important figures in the adoption processes that happen, and their presence here could expedite the adoptions that the Leachman family are hoping and praying for. The third guest would be both print and video media of this region of Nigeria. It could mean a lot for the orphanage in presence, and possible assistance from the government (currently they receive no help from any government agencies.)
So, please be praying for us tomorrow. If you find yourself awake at 3 am, we will be starting to "open our doors"(even though most of our work is outside!) to an expected 400 patients. Please pray for good weather, patience and endurance for our team and interpreters, and that God would be working through the presence of this orphanage, their staff, and our team and work here!
Good night (O-Low-Dew-dew) And thanks for all of your prayers and support!
Adam -for the team!
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Dog tired but pro
Well, I am the blogger for the evening. I will do my best to give you highlights of today. We started the day off with devotional lead by Renee and then quickly scurried off to do clinic. We did two sessions for the children and staff of MoM. Everyone worked soooooo hard and did their jobs with smiles and love, even when exhaustion set it. The team is awesome!! Today was also the day to slaughter the cow. The children were chanting "we are going to eat cow tonight". I did not witness the slaughter but many of our people did. Tonight we had a huge celebration and everyone ate meat and rice. You would not beleive how happy and excited all the children were. The best was when we closed and Matt, one of our teens was asked to close. He did not hesitate, he got up in front of over 150 people and delivered a beautiful prayer. We were all very proud!!!! Well still much to do this evening so I must run. Much love to all at home and thank you for the prayer!! Julie
Monday, June 28, 2010
Day Two - Learning, Serving, and Soaking it All In!
Agba (Hello) from Renee Leachman, your poster for the evening,
Today was a VERY full day! It was our first day of "scheduled activity" and it was a busy one!
There's lots of learning going on...
For those that are new to M.O.M., they're learning their way around the compound. They're learning the names of several of the children and they are learning this place is the filled with the work of the holy spirit! For those that are returning, we are getting re-acquainted with old friends, refreshing our memories of the difficulties the residents cheerfully overcome day in and day out, and getting a reminder of why we wanted to come back.
We began by heading to Crystal's home for breakfast, since she's been hosting our meals. So breakfast at 7:00, then setting up clinic for the villagers in Otutulu. That was interesting, with two doctors, folks working triage, and the stagers (aka traffic cops), navigating patients from triage to the docs, then from the docs to the pharmacy, and last but far from least, to the prayer station. The estimate is we served about 200 patients. It was a full day and very rewarding, knowing that many of these folks wouldn't have access to medical services without groups like ours coming to provide it. And the fact that every person was prayed for was amazing... that's every person, Muslim or Christian! That in itself is a big part of the reason why I come. The folks at M.O.M. and many in Otutulu are Christian, so the opportunity to support the work done by our Christian brothers and sisters is fulfilling. And the chance to pray for non-Christians and share with them the love of Christ is where it's at!
Simultaneous to the medical clinic, there was a lot of love and fun with kids of M.O.M. I hear they can do a mean ring-around-the-rosie... just ask Kay Dorsey when you see her (she was phenomenal).
And of course, I certainly can't forget to mention the cow that Stuart Chapman, Doug & Matt Dorsey, and Eric Styskal wrangled and brought back to the orphanage. That's a story that one of "cow boys" ought to share, but don't worry... they arrived safe and sound and so did the cow!
After dinner, devotional, and clean-up, it's late and time to call it a night. It's a lot to absorb and we've only been here a few days. Soooo much more to do and see and learn. Thank you for your prayers... they are such an encouragement!
God, have your way with us!!
Today was a VERY full day! It was our first day of "scheduled activity" and it was a busy one!
There's lots of learning going on...
For those that are new to M.O.M., they're learning their way around the compound. They're learning the names of several of the children and they are learning this place is the filled with the work of the holy spirit! For those that are returning, we are getting re-acquainted with old friends, refreshing our memories of the difficulties the residents cheerfully overcome day in and day out, and getting a reminder of why we wanted to come back.
We began by heading to Crystal's home for breakfast, since she's been hosting our meals. So breakfast at 7:00, then setting up clinic for the villagers in Otutulu. That was interesting, with two doctors, folks working triage, and the stagers (aka traffic cops), navigating patients from triage to the docs, then from the docs to the pharmacy, and last but far from least, to the prayer station. The estimate is we served about 200 patients. It was a full day and very rewarding, knowing that many of these folks wouldn't have access to medical services without groups like ours coming to provide it. And the fact that every person was prayed for was amazing... that's every person, Muslim or Christian! That in itself is a big part of the reason why I come. The folks at M.O.M. and many in Otutulu are Christian, so the opportunity to support the work done by our Christian brothers and sisters is fulfilling. And the chance to pray for non-Christians and share with them the love of Christ is where it's at!
Simultaneous to the medical clinic, there was a lot of love and fun with kids of M.O.M. I hear they can do a mean ring-around-the-rosie... just ask Kay Dorsey when you see her (she was phenomenal).
And of course, I certainly can't forget to mention the cow that Stuart Chapman, Doug & Matt Dorsey, and Eric Styskal wrangled and brought back to the orphanage. That's a story that one of "cow boys" ought to share, but don't worry... they arrived safe and sound and so did the cow!
After dinner, devotional, and clean-up, it's late and time to call it a night. It's a lot to absorb and we've only been here a few days. Soooo much more to do and see and learn. Thank you for your prayers... they are such an encouragement!
God, have your way with us!!
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Greetings from Otutulu!
I am your host tonight, Adam Jacobus, and I can tell you it has been an amazingly, head spinning experience!
We safely arrived last night after dark at the MOM orphanage here in Otutulu, which means about 1:30 or 2:00 pm for those of you keeping score at home! We are 6 hours ahead of US Central time, but worlds away in other ways! Our internet service is limited to the times that they can run the generators here to provide a limited amount of power to the 3 main buildings of the orphanage, and then Crystal's house (Crystal is the american missionary teacher friend of Julie's.) Basically, when the generators go out, every goes black!! All of us are carrying our water bottles and flashlights with us where ever we go!
Although our flights were simply long and uneventful, we landed just before 9 am local time, got through customs, and waited just a short while for Julie to show up with our vehicles. She brought a chartered multi-passenger van, and the smaller station wagon that belongs to M.O.M. We stuffed a good portion of the luggage into the station wagon, along with Paul in the front seat, while the rest of us jumped into the van. The bigger issue was the amount of luggage - 24 checked pieces weighing between 40-70 pounds, and then 12 carry on bags, plus a few other pieces. The only item lost was an umbrella stroller - go figure, a gate checked item for Hussan Styskal!
We shortly found the inspiration for Walt Disney's Mr. Toad's Wild Ride - when the steering wheel and horn are used more than the brakes, you are in for one adventure. Going to the Lakoja baby orphanage was not that big of a problem, but there were only 13 passengers in 12 available seats. After lunch and the baby orphanage, we added the adoption families and Daniel, so we lost some of our luggage in the station wagon, repacked some bags, and headed out with now 15 passengers. We got to visit the new orphanage construction, and then back tracked to pick up some of the 12 year old students from the MOM orphanage who were testing in Lakoja. So, our passenger list totaled at 19 for the next 4 hours of so, again, still on Mr. Toad's wild ride!
Our arrival at the orphanage was precluded by the last stage of road, which isn't so much as road as much as "dry river bed" mixed with roller coaster. Up and down, left and right, inching forward, backing up, and preparing to meet Jesus at any moment. We offered several times to get out and walk, but our driver just kept on going! We finally rolled into the orphanage after dark, and were mobbed by kids, our van cleared out of all luggage, and then we were a little bit lost (and in the dark!)
So far, the majority of conversation with the children has been "What Is Your Name?" with emphasis on each word! The universal language of the smile and handshake has been unmistakable.
Today was a new experience for everyone involved, because it included church service here at the orphanage. Some of us got to sit in with the children's Sunday school, and all of us were able to participate in communion. It was fun to sing the old hymns in English out of a small hymnal, sitting alongside Nigerians singing in Igala. How awesome is our God to be worshiped in a world of languages and cultures!
Today, with the exception of the adoption sendoff, was a day of rest. Tomorrow, we will be hosting a medical clinic, and having 200 children surround us at all times, asking "What Is Your Name?"
Our posts will most likely come during these evening hours for us, or early afternoon for you! Thanks for your prayers while we are here. Currently, we are all in good health and spirits, and look forward to the adventure God has brought us on.
Tammy Maisano and others that were asking about Baby Ann, who has hydrocephalus. She is still alive, and doing as well as possible. The care that she is receiving is remarkable.
Alright then, I've written a novel. More tomorrow after more rest, and more water to drink!
We safely arrived last night after dark at the MOM orphanage here in Otutulu, which means about 1:30 or 2:00 pm for those of you keeping score at home! We are 6 hours ahead of US Central time, but worlds away in other ways! Our internet service is limited to the times that they can run the generators here to provide a limited amount of power to the 3 main buildings of the orphanage, and then Crystal's house (Crystal is the american missionary teacher friend of Julie's.) Basically, when the generators go out, every goes black!! All of us are carrying our water bottles and flashlights with us where ever we go!
Although our flights were simply long and uneventful, we landed just before 9 am local time, got through customs, and waited just a short while for Julie to show up with our vehicles. She brought a chartered multi-passenger van, and the smaller station wagon that belongs to M.O.M. We stuffed a good portion of the luggage into the station wagon, along with Paul in the front seat, while the rest of us jumped into the van. The bigger issue was the amount of luggage - 24 checked pieces weighing between 40-70 pounds, and then 12 carry on bags, plus a few other pieces. The only item lost was an umbrella stroller - go figure, a gate checked item for Hussan Styskal!
We shortly found the inspiration for Walt Disney's Mr. Toad's Wild Ride - when the steering wheel and horn are used more than the brakes, you are in for one adventure. Going to the Lakoja baby orphanage was not that big of a problem, but there were only 13 passengers in 12 available seats. After lunch and the baby orphanage, we added the adoption families and Daniel, so we lost some of our luggage in the station wagon, repacked some bags, and headed out with now 15 passengers. We got to visit the new orphanage construction, and then back tracked to pick up some of the 12 year old students from the MOM orphanage who were testing in Lakoja. So, our passenger list totaled at 19 for the next 4 hours of so, again, still on Mr. Toad's wild ride!
Our arrival at the orphanage was precluded by the last stage of road, which isn't so much as road as much as "dry river bed" mixed with roller coaster. Up and down, left and right, inching forward, backing up, and preparing to meet Jesus at any moment. We offered several times to get out and walk, but our driver just kept on going! We finally rolled into the orphanage after dark, and were mobbed by kids, our van cleared out of all luggage, and then we were a little bit lost (and in the dark!)
So far, the majority of conversation with the children has been "What Is Your Name?" with emphasis on each word! The universal language of the smile and handshake has been unmistakable.
Today was a new experience for everyone involved, because it included church service here at the orphanage. Some of us got to sit in with the children's Sunday school, and all of us were able to participate in communion. It was fun to sing the old hymns in English out of a small hymnal, sitting alongside Nigerians singing in Igala. How awesome is our God to be worshiped in a world of languages and cultures!
Today, with the exception of the adoption sendoff, was a day of rest. Tomorrow, we will be hosting a medical clinic, and having 200 children surround us at all times, asking "What Is Your Name?"
Our posts will most likely come during these evening hours for us, or early afternoon for you! Thanks for your prayers while we are here. Currently, we are all in good health and spirits, and look forward to the adventure God has brought us on.
Tammy Maisano and others that were asking about Baby Ann, who has hydrocephalus. She is still alive, and doing as well as possible. The care that she is receiving is remarkable.
Alright then, I've written a novel. More tomorrow after more rest, and more water to drink!
Saturday, June 26, 2010
@ 11:14am from Julie:
"Laughing right now because we are beginning a 5 hour drive and are packed like sardines. We have all the luggage and had to pick up 4 teens that needed to go back to Otutulu. Renee and I have a 14 year old girl on our laps wearing braces that must weigh 50 pounds! Praying for numbness to set in."
Kristin: "So, Julie, you really want us to pray for numbness? I don't think I've ever prayed for that before!"
Renee: "Yes..PLEASE!"
"Laughing right now because we are beginning a 5 hour drive and are packed like sardines. We have all the luggage and had to pick up 4 teens that needed to go back to Otutulu. Renee and I have a 14 year old girl on our laps wearing braces that must weigh 50 pounds! Praying for numbness to set in."
Kristin: "So, Julie, you really want us to pray for numbness? I don't think I've ever prayed for that before!"
Renee: "Yes..PLEASE!"
Friday, June 25, 2010
Thursday, June 24, 2010
@ 8:22am from Julie:
"We just now finished at the Embassy after 8 hours. We finally received all visas. Much thanks and love go out to Ken, Meghan, Eric, and Renee. Without you I would never have gotten my visa and would have lost sanity! Love and Hugs."
Thank you all for your constant prayer! God heard you as He always does.
"We just now finished at the Embassy after 8 hours. We finally received all visas. Much thanks and love go out to Ken, Meghan, Eric, and Renee. Without you I would never have gotten my visa and would have lost sanity! Love and Hugs."
Thank you all for your constant prayer! God heard you as He always does.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
@ 7:30am from Julie:
"Vonderhaars and Neeley's visas were approved, Styskal's was not. U.S. left out a simple receipt for our fingerprints and unless I can produce then no visa. I will do my best when the U.S. is open."
Obviously, much prayer is needed for the rest of this process for Julie and the Styskal family. Julie seems calm and said "it's in God's hands now."
"Vonderhaars and Neeley's visas were approved, Styskal's was not. U.S. left out a simple receipt for our fingerprints and unless I can produce then no visa. I will do my best when the U.S. is open."
Obviously, much prayer is needed for the rest of this process for Julie and the Styskal family. Julie seems calm and said "it's in God's hands now."
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
@ 6:32am from Julie:
"Finally off of Victoria Island! The place is a madhouse! Clinic all went well and we received all our paperwork. Tomorrow is the big day at the Embassy. We will know then if the visas are granted."
Please pray that their visas are granted and for thier continued safety...and that Michael won't take any more forbidden photos! ;) Kristin
"Finally off of Victoria Island! The place is a madhouse! Clinic all went well and we received all our paperwork. Tomorrow is the big day at the Embassy. We will know then if the visas are granted."
Please pray that their visas are granted and for thier continued safety...and that Michael won't take any more forbidden photos! ;) Kristin
@1:52am today from Julie:
"OK, we just had quite the exciting moment. Police stopped our car and were very upset that Michael had taken a photo of him. It is against the law to photograph police. Our driver begged for Michael but the man was still mad. Michael had to get out in the middle of the freeway to apologize and delete the picture. Things only settled down when another policeman came up and saw Chris Vonderhaars' soccer shirt! We were released and sent on. Just a bit of Nigerian excitement for our white friends."
"OK, we just had quite the exciting moment. Police stopped our car and were very upset that Michael had taken a photo of him. It is against the law to photograph police. Our driver begged for Michael but the man was still mad. Michael had to get out in the middle of the freeway to apologize and delete the picture. Things only settled down when another policeman came up and saw Chris Vonderhaars' soccer shirt! We were released and sent on. Just a bit of Nigerian excitement for our white friends."
Monday, June 21, 2010
@ 11:00am CST from Julie Styskal:
"We are all now in Lagos and survived clinic. The kids all got their shots. One child, Rose, vomited 3 times! Chris Vonderhaar has been doing an awesome job...even helping to clean up the puke. We go tomorrow to hopefully get papers to allow us to go to the embassy. Roads are horrifying but we are just embracing the adventure. Lagos is a bit rough."
Thank you for your continuing prayer support for Julie and the Vonderhaar's!
Kristin
"We are all now in Lagos and survived clinic. The kids all got their shots. One child, Rose, vomited 3 times! Chris Vonderhaar has been doing an awesome job...even helping to clean up the puke. We go tomorrow to hopefully get papers to allow us to go to the embassy. Roads are horrifying but we are just embracing the adventure. Lagos is a bit rough."
Thank you for your continuing prayer support for Julie and the Vonderhaar's!
Kristin
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Nigeria Team #1
As of today, Sunday June 2oth, we know that the first Nigeria team of Julie Styskal and the Vonderhaar family have arrived safely. They are currently in need of prayer for finding lodging in Lagos (near the Embassy). Also, please pray that they are able to connect with all the people they need to and complete the final steps for the adoption of Hassan Styskal and Lydia Vonderhaar. We will keep you posted...
God Bless,
Kristin Burford
God Bless,
Kristin Burford
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)