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beautiful beach

March 18, 2010

this isn't my last post on africa….
but on our last night we were taken to River Number 2.
i heard it was a beautiful beach but i didn't get my hopes up.
we arrived at night.
you could hear the ocean but with all i had seen that week…i couldn't imagine what we'd wake up to.

i was amazed yet again.

it was like we'd been transported to another world.
how could this be here…so close to where we'd been?

we were grateful for a quiet place to decompress a bit.
talk about what we'd seen.
think about what we would do when we got home.
cry.

i cried….i don't know if anyone else did.

the rooms were still primitive…one room had no pipe at the bottom of the sink.
you could get water but then it just poured onto the floor.
their shower didn't drain either.
so they were going to use ours…but i was the 3rd person to shower…
and the water ran out just as i put on the conditioner…about one minute into my shower.
it was out for the rest of the day.
at least she'd gotten in the ocean earlier.
that was it for the rest of the trip…30+ hours left of traveling to get home…with no shower.
conditioner in my hair.
lovely.

this was a perfect beach…shallow and warm…green and turquoise.
mountains and palm trees.
it was lush.

i got to talk with sally.
she told us about her family, her heartbreak, her walk with with God.
i cried some more.

meals were in the hut.

our time here was short.
i would have loved another day….

maybe when we go back.

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Amy Mumaw - I sent Amy Butler an email about you and your group in Africa , this is what I got back
Dear Amy,
Hello and thank you for contacting Amy’s studio. We have received several emails about this blog and it lifted our spirits here at the studio. Amy was touched and has been in touch with the lovely women who went to Africa. Thanks for taking the time to make sure we saw this blog. What an example, so inspiring.
Have a great weekend!
My best,
Linda Sandin
orders@amybutlerdesign.com
http://www.amybutlerdesign.com
(740) 587-2841
From: Amy Marinello
Date: March 15, 2010 7:53:46 AM EDT
To: amyb@amybutlerdesign.com
Subject: Amy Butler Designs in Africa
Amy,
I just wanted to share with how your designs are helping others. I follow many blogs, and many bloggers adore your designs.
The blog Whatever by Megan Duerksen ,has mentioned your designs and books several times. Megan recently had the wonderful opportunity of traveling to Sierra Leone and while on her mission she helped others learn to sew.
She brought along your book and they made the clutch while in Africa. I thought that maybe you would be interested in seeing your work in action.
If so, here is the link http://megduerksen.typepad.com/.
Thank you ,
Amy Mumaw
546 Longview St.
Pickerington, OH 43147

Janera - I’ve just told my senior English students to come over and take a look at your beautiful blog. We read “A Long Way Gone” together, and they were strongly moved. I know they will love seeing your photos and reading your reactions to Sierra Leone.

sarah - How beautiful is that place ?!
What a great time for you guys to just relax and reflect.

DreamGirlLisa - What an amazing trip…hard to believe such beauty and such chaos all side by side…what an experience for you and for your family to experience through your pictures. Thanks for sharing it all w/ us 🙂

Jacci - Meg, I went to Jamaica years ago on a trip with Habitat for Humanity. It was the same there – gorgeous resort locations just minutes from destitution and extreme poverty.

Suzanne Gallagher - Thank you so much for sharing your experience with us, your pictures are just wonderful. I have enjoyed viewing them with my children.

Mindy Harris - that beach looks exquisite. glad you had a little time to decompress before your return home.
i was elated to see you at the zoo today–you are a celebrity. thank you for remembering me and Wilder.

linda lou - what a treat to walk on the beach…reminds me of california (: which i went last summer and ready to go again…but instead we are going to branson,mo to our condo may 23 to 30 now if anyone would like to rent for $425 i have another one we can visit just email me.
lindalouwerries@cox.net hope this is ok to say
if not sorry!!!! has in and outdoor swimming pool and rec center and close to the shows.

tasha roe - that is a dreamy beach!
love all your posts on Africa!
makes me want to go!!
I dont know if my heart is ready though.
thanks for sharing!

Mike Thomas - Your blog has been recommended to us as a interviewee’s favorite blog!
We would like to do an interview with you about your blog for
Blog Interviewer. We’d
like to give you the opportunity to
give us some insight on the “person behind the blog.”
It would just take a few minutes of your time. The interview form can
be submitted online here Submit your
interview.
Best regards,
Mike Thomas

Tracy - BEAUTIFUL doesn’t even begin to describe this wonderful looking beach, Meg! I am really enjoying all of your posts and learning so much and just seeing the devastation that these people live in on a daily basis really breaks my heart. I look forward to your other posts about Africa and your visit. Big hugs! :o)

Esther Harper - what a blessing….tears are running down my face as I remember my homeland Cuba, just the same as Africa now. I loved the pic with the footprints on the sand. Thanks for sharing and keep on sharing PLEASE !!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Hugs~ Esther

Kate - Wow. I wish I had better words… Amazing. Thank you so much for sharing this amazing experience.

Courtney Walsh - If you hadnt’ told me this was Africa, I really wouldn’t have known. This is not the Africa I have in my head. This is so amazing and beautiful. Wow.
Oh, the stories you will forever have. 🙂

Molly Pearce - Beautiful beach! Sally is gorgeous! I bet her story was just as beautiful!
~Molly P

angela - …….so, you’re going back.
How could you not?

Becky @ Farmgirl Paints - So glad you got to have this day! What a perfect place to think about all that you had experienced.
Poor thing with conditioner in your hair all day. That had to feel gross.
I love your heart Meg.

Lori - Meg, I haven’t been commenting on your posts since you got back. By the time I finish reading and absorbing the amazing things revealed in your photos, my head is too full to express my thoughts. Sounds lame, but it is the truth. You have such a gift with your photography. Not to mention your sewing skills…as always, God knew what he was doing in including you in that group! Thanks for sharing.

Sophie - What an amazing place. I love the colours in the photos. Your posts sound like you have been changed forever.

Diana - wow, when i saw that beach, and all the loveliness… that was my thought, too… HOW can that be there with all the OTHER going on?! so totally at odds.
and yet, so wondrously beautiful… Africa has so many faces in its land.
♥

Christina - There is so much to take in, the juxtaposition of it all…I’m glad you had the time there (on that beach) that you did.
And to arrive home with such very soft hair! 🙂
I’m sure you will be processing it all for a very long time. Again, thank you for sharing your experience with us, and the people there.
I think all the time how crazy it is that a place that is so nice can be right beside total poverty. I live in one of the most affluent areas in the country (please know I don’t say this to brag…we actually can’t afford to live in our neighborhood, but live in a church house, so we are able to, make sense?) and yet there is that point where you know you’ve crossed into one of the poorest areas in our nation. It doesn’t make sense.
Well. I don’t really know what else to say. There is a lot to think about and even more to do, no? Prayers said for your transition back home.

Andrea Howe - love all these posts. what a blessing to get to experience something like this. must really be life altering.

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the speedboat

March 17, 2010

we took two boats to Bunce Island.
we looked like complete dorks.

just like boats here in the US….no worries right?
HA.

me and shelia and teresa…about to embark on a boat ride like we've never had before.
so much innocence in our faces.

i think these men knew what we were getting into…that's why they were smiling so big.

pam was texting…in a speedboat…on the atlantic ocean.
love it.

i was starting to feel sick.
i had taken dramamene…but there is not enough in the world to prepare for this boat.
he was at top speed and every wave sent us out of our seat.
we were sure one of us would just pop out of the boat….i am not kidding.
so i had passed the camera to pam because i couldn't hold it up to take pictures.

and then a huge wave came.
it was like slow motion for the three of us in the back…
we watched a wave of water come up over the boat and go just between the canopy covering us and window in front of the driver.
SOAKING THE BACK ROW.
from head to toe.
with our mouths open screaming.

i may or may not have been shouting a swear word at this moment.

thankfully pam had the camera.
there was nothing dry on me.
my purse was soaked…my money…passport…all my clothes…my shoes and socks.
and pam was laughing so hard.

it was funny….looking back…not then.

the driver said "oh…sorry."
but he was pretty dry so i wasn't really feeling his apology.

then my dramamene kicked in…
i laid my head back on the seat and gave into the bumps, the sound of the motor and i actually slept.
(either that or i was near death from carbonmonoxcide fumes from the motor.)
some of the pictures pam got during my sleep:

then we arrived at Bunce Island.
one of the boats left to get the tour guide on a different island.
he arrived in a canoe with two boys.

he spoke krio and cami translated.

Bunce Island was where slaves were brought to be sold.
it was a terrible place.
you can read about it here…or here
….and watch a video if you'd like.

i am now embarrassed about my whining about the speedboat.

africans were kidnapped and brought here and kept for days without food…forced to exercise in the heat
carrying heavy things to prove their strength…and killed if they could not.

they were kept underground.

then they were sold and never returned to their families or home.

we stood in the place where the boats would come in filled with men and women to be sold.
or killed.
or die.

it was so wrong.
can you believe that things like this took place? and are still taking place in different forms today?!
our world just doesn't make sense.

i thought this photo was beautiful.
i didn't take it.
it's from an iPhone i believe.

being the germ-o-phobe americans that we were….one of the ladies passed around face wipes.
our guide had never seen one.
he loved it.

his helper wanted nothing to do with it.

and then we returned in the speed boats.
oh my.
at least we weren't scooping out water in buckets.

i told jody "i am not mad about the boat…i just learned that it is something i never want to do again"

the last time i went on a roller coaster i said "never again"
the last time i went skiing i said "never again"
and now i know….speedboat on the ocean…never again.

🙂

unless i have to.

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Tia Oshields - It seems like you girls enjoyed the day with those gentlemen. Careful while texting on a boat, it can be dangerous. You never know when the boat will go fast, turn or stop abruptly so it’s best to pay attention and keep a firm grip on the handles.

Beka - That’s so funny about the cleaning wipes. The guide and his helper’s different reactions. 🙂
Made me smile:)

buy sildenafil citrate - I love the boats that you feel totally free in the ocean and move like you’re a bird but at sea. Traveling on a boat makes me find myself and concentrate on what I really want. This helps me to put my devise ongoing and in order. The ocean is part of me, of all beings on the planet.

adrienne - humbling meg. such a beautiful experience for you to share. our Father is at work in so many different ways. i love the photo of the storms above the island in your most recent post and also the boat (canoe?) filled with the locals… beautiful images.

Brenna Walters - Wow. Amazing.
I am just finishing up a book about this very thing! Bunce Island plays a major part. It’s a great book called Somebody knows my name. I thought of Aminata (character from the book) as I was looking at the pictures of the island.
Thanks for sharing.

merlin - http://myblogintheheartofafrica.blogspot.com/
You may be interested in this gals blog, she is an author and just wrote “Blood Ransom” about today’s slave trade in Africa.

Courtney Walsh - cannot believe this kind of thing went on. why are people so cruel to each other? I don’t understand. Reminds me of seeing photos of the concentration camps from WW2. ugh. What an amazing journey this all was!!

kelly@the blue muse - these posts take me through the whole gamut of emotions…you show us a smile in the face of sadness and everything in between. the photos of your tour guide are stunning, your boat ride hilarious, and then such sobering images of Bunce Island. you are so good at showing us humanity, in all its aspects.

Kellie Dugan - Megan, What an expierence! I have loved every one of your post of Africa. You can tell the gentleness of the people. This is something no one can ever take from you. It makes you thankful for each and every day. Thankful for the smallest of things. We take so much for granted? Thank you for the reminder. Can’t wait to hear more.
p.s. I was scrolling down very slowly as I was reading the wave on the boat part and almost woke everyone up. Your face says it all! HALARIOUS!

melissa mae - i was thinking last night, for a species that prides itself so much on being so evolved, you’d think we would know how to treat each other better, right? Oh well, there is a lot of good and love in this world as well.
i wrote a post about you and your adventure along with a link back. hope that’s okay.

GorgeousGlam - The picture of all the people lined up on that long boat is amazing! xoxo
http://www.gorgeousglam.blogspot.com

Diana - a sad, sad time in history… but even more sad that our current world has not learned anything from those horrific past happenings.
amazing and wonderful photos… from the boat ride and the history tour.
i have never been on a boat… i have always said i will never get on a boat… this clinches it. besides, i can’t swim.
♥

kbonikowsky - I don’t want your pictures to end!!

Ann at the Handley Bungalow - Wow Meg – my kids and I have really enjoyed hearing about your amazing trip! What an adventure and a learning experience. We are learning through you. Much of the world lives like what you have seen. So different than what we experience in the States; it is difficult to explain how poor they are until you see it with your own eyes. I think you are amazing to have volunteered to go and experience life there and be willing to help them! You are an adventurer! Sincerely, Ann

Chantal - Hi Megan,
I love your pictures from Africa, and your very funny stories. I recommend you read The Book of Negroes by Lawrence Hill. It is the story of a slave (fiction, but based on historic facts) who is captured in Sierra Leone and leaves for America from Bunce Island. At one point in the story, she returns to Sierra Leone to Freetown. I love how your pictures have given me another perspective on this story. After your trip to this intriguing country, I believe you would enjoy the book. It has received much critical acclaim here in Canada.
I look forward to reading the rest of your stories.

purejoy - i feel like i went with you on that boat. i have been to china three times and have experienced crazy travel like that and you do laugh hysterically because it sort of masks the abject terror.
i’m sure what you saw was very sobering. your guide looks like morgan freeman. what an amazing trip. i know you are forever changed, and i hope you are reaclimating to life back in america. not an easy thing to do after all you’ve experienced and seen.

Staci - Oh man you are soooo brace! I could.not.have.done.it….I don’t think anyway 🙂 I am terrified of what is in the water….I’ve seen Jaws WAAAAY too many times 😉 That man is beautiful 🙂

Mindy Harris - your guide looks like morgan freeman. thank you for sharing some history with us…i feel so ignorant sometimes.

Messy@Bungalow'56 - I have to find the name of a book for you. It is fiction based on a true story about a slave’s life. A good portion of the story is about the African slaves being caught on their own soil. It was very good. On a side note, I wanted to let you know how much I appreciated your comment today over on Clover Lane. I too suffer from motion sickness. I felt for you.
Dana

shayla - that is hilarious about the boat ive so dealt with almost falling out of a speed boat and getting SOAKED as well!!!
that is TERRIBLE about the slave trade spot…its worse that it was their own people that started it…I cant imagine what it would be like for the rich people in America to start selling off the poor people…that is just awful!!! 🙁

Anne - thanks for sharing all of this. we do live in a strange and wrong world…it’s hard to look at those pictures and imagine all of the people who suffered/died. It is even harder to realize that slavery is still going on RIGHT NOW…with the sex-slave trade…during our sermon a few weeks ago, the speaker said that there are more than 3 million (think I am remembering that right) women/children enslaved…..which is way more than when african slavery was going on. I pray that it too will be ended soon..and that everyone will open their eyes to what is going on around the world with this. thanks again for all of your experiences

Sally Mangham - I think I am the 3rd person to comment on the boat with all the locals in it…WOW! And to know that you were standing where history took place…it’s very emotional. Again, thanks for sharing!

merlin - Oh, I do hope you can tell us about the boat with the “million” people on it….good grief, where are they going? Why so many on one boat? Do they pay to travel like that? Is it luxury? I ask sincerely, the standard is so different, for all I know, maybe just getting on a crowded boat is a status symbol over there.
And the slave part, yes, how? but worse, why still today?

Sharla - I love that picture with all of the people on the long boat.

H-Mama @ Family Team - Simply Amazing.

donna - wow. i love all your pics and your stories from your trip. that is truly a part of life that i wish that i could experience. you are brave and your heart is overflowing with kindness and goodness!

amy d - you have really captured some humbling moments with your camera…glad your trip went well and you made it back safe.
🙂

Becky @ Farmgirl Paints - First of all that speedboat ride would have done me in too. Can’t believe you actually fell asleep. Thank heavens for Dramamine.
I got chills reading about that island and the slaves. How horrifying! To actually see the place in person and for you to share it here was very eye opening. It makes it so much more real. I can’t even begin to fathom such things. I often think about God and how he can stand the sin in the world.

julia - I love the shot with all of the people in one boat…I’m not a big boat fan either…went on one with a 3 month old strapped to me. all I could think of was that I was sure God didn’t plan on me dying that day.
Oh, the b&w picture is amazing. He looks like a nice person.

Molly Pearce - I love the picture of your tour guide, it is beautiful! Your pictures speak a 1000 words! Very moving!
~Molly P

candace - I’m at school on lunch and I am doing all I can to keep from crying. I haven’t posted at all on your Sierra Leonne posts because they…well, they have just reminded me SO much of my trip to Ghana and I just want to soak in all of what you are sharing. It is just too much today. We went to El Mina slave castle in Cape Cost, Ghana. It truly is an amazing experience! Thank you for sharing and being honest about the speed boat thing. Yikes!

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groundnut stew

March 16, 2010

we were invited to lunch at auntie sally's.
sally is from sierra leone and works for Word Made Flesh.
she was an inspirational woman to me…loved hearing her story.

she prepared a traditional meal of groundnut stew over rice.

it was made with chicken and barracuda.
i had never even thought about eating barracuda…we just don't have many in kansas.
oh and also i don't really like seafood.
but it was good….tasted like chicken. :)

she was a super helper…washing and carrying and cleaning.
i think this was sally's niece…or grand niece.
a sweetheart.

that is part of the path that the boys carried the sewing machine up…..wow.

teresa and kari ready to eat.

we were taking pictures with our phones while the big camera was being passed around.

(**AND we were able to text the whole trip.
it was so good to be able to be in contact with craig all week.
he even threw in some Magruber quotes.
i love him.)

we asked sally if these children could have our food we had left that we couldn't finish.
she put all our leftovers into a bigger bowl and they were eating it with their hands.
they were so happy!
it was…..hard to watch….humbling.
again.
have you noticed a theme of humility on this trip?
it was obviously a lesson i needed to learn.
thankful to God for teaching me.
but i know i have so much farther to go….

we were each given more than we could possibly eat.
she cooked for a long time in the hot sun for a group of women she had just met.
she was so generous.
thank you sally.

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Kristy - thank. you. so. much. for letting us go on the magnificent, amazing journey with you.
once again i have tears. i just want to scoop those kids up and love them.

Lauren - Hi Meg,
I have been a follower (unofficial, not google-ish) for quite some time now and absolutely love visiting. I was excited to hear about your trip to Sierra Leone and have been curious as the week has gone past, but today, this post brought tears to my eyes. Perhaps because of the beauty you’ve captured with your photos or maybe the way you openly admit how humbling this experience was. Whatever it is, I love it and am thrilled to read this blog. Thank you!

Natalie - what an amazing experience!! i love checking in to see what photos you are going to share from your trip! and you can totally pull off the orange vest.. you were rockin it. 😉

bambooska - Those children’s smiles made my day. 🙂

Sally Mangham - Wow! I can only imagine what a life changing experience this was for you. Thank you for the continued sharing. Hugs, Sally

Julie - I’m really enjoying seeing your pictures. I’m so moved by Africa and the African people. They are so beautiful. Humbling, yes. I can only imagine. My husband went to Somalia ~ it changes a person.

Staci - Oh my goodness ! How precious is that little girl in that picture with those boys??? Man oh man…I’m only experiencing this through your lens…but humbling is definitely the word 🙁 Ugggh 🙁 We take soooo much for granted 🙁

linda lou - without reading the comments i was thinking as the others has said about aunt sally cooking in the heat for you girls we are so use to cental air or air conditioning homes, we would think we were suffering unconditional for our family): sad hu! and those children you can see jesus in them (: and i have to say that little girl is beautiful!!! you have truly been blessed by your experience in going. blessings, linda lou

Diana - yes, like was said by another commenter, humbling for us visiting, too.
such beautiful children… every child’s smile is a piece of heaven.
barracuda in kansas… hmmm, wonder if jerry has ever seen any while out fishing. naw, probably not.
thank you, auntie sally, for feeding our friends while they were there. 🙂
♥

Rachael - Meg, I was looking at these pictures and I noticed how beautiful your friends are! Some of my closest christian friends are also some of the most beautiful people I know. God has truly blessed you.

kristine - i just adore all those children. they are beautiful. i just want to snuggle them up and bring them home with me. i’m thankful for all you’re learning too. i love it.

julia - wonderful pictures…..was it difficult to eat though? or, knowing how important it was to appreciate the hospitality was it easier? I really don’t know how I’d handle a situation like that.

Melanie - your pictures are amazing!

Kelly - wow, this is all so amazing. kelly

adrianne - Such beautiful children!

s.t. - living here in america for so long, i got pampered with dishwasher, microwave, oven, clean water that i can easily access 24 hrs/7 days a week, washer & dryer to clean the dirty clothes, antibacterial stuff and so on…when i went to visit my home country, i had to stop myself many times from saying “is that clean? hope i don’t get food poisoned or sick” from how they sell/prepare/cook food from the market. it’s easy to get so parnoid about sanitation & stuff.

merlin - “she cooked for a long time, in the hot sun”
How do you like to entertain? I’d rather see the dentist for a root canal than cook for others in my home, for me the conditions have to be perfect, so honestly we don’t have people over.
Now, in light of your story of Aunt Sally….I have to re-think my attitude, really rotten attitude.
Thanks for sharing you experiences with perfect strangers like me, who are blessed and changed through your sharing.

kbonikowsky - It is such a treat to look at your pictures. It makes me homesick for the “real” world.

sara@augustfields - meg…the pictures, the story, the lives. all so much to take in….and i didn’t even go there. i am so thankful that you are sharing your experience. thank you.

Amanda - Have you heard about this? http://iamrogue.com/macgruber/

Nicole Q. - I haven’t commented yet on all your pictures of your trip . . .I’m just taking it all in. AMAZING! I know God changed and touched you but that’s only half of this experience. God touched and changed the people you came in contact with too! I love how God works!

Gina - Those kids just break my heart! But they are as happy as can be, aren’t they? I wish that there was more that I was able to do for the people of Africa. I’m really proud of you for going there! Have you ever seen the Sara Groves video for “I Saw What I Saw?” It kills me every time I watch it. I would love to adopt from Africa, but it’s just so very expensive…..maybe someday. I love seeing your pics, keep em’ coming!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OSdP6PqsbJY

Molly Pearce - Those children are so beautiful!! I could take them all home with me!! Auntie Sally sounds like a very sweet woman, would love to hear her story.
~Molly P

Holly - The little girl reminds me so much of your Annie with the way her little smile just creeps into all her facial features. I love how she is nearly naked but her hair is done so fancy- I guess that is part of the “Annie” of her.

Karen Gerstenberger - Dear Meg,
I’m sure you are busy getting settled back in with your family, but I wanted to tell you that I sent you an email about fabric donations. Just wanted to tell you here, so you don’t think it’s spam, or that I am a stalker. I’m a blogger – and a beginning seamstress, who started a blanket-making guild at Seattle Children’s Hospital. Our guild’s blog is http://www.katiescomfortersguild.blogspot.com, and my blog is http://www.karengberger.blogspot.com . I have an idea for supplies for your next trip to Africa.
Thank you for sharing your travels (and what you are learning) with us!

sarah - I get tears in my eyes every time I look at these pictures of yours,
I just don’t even have words…

Christy - Awesome pictures!!

Courtney Walsh - humbling for me to even look at it, I can’t imagine you being there. That little girl smiling in the background of those kid pictures is just adorable. I love her! 🙂
I hope you’re readjusting to life… I am sure you’ll never be the same!

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more photos

March 15, 2010

random photos….

a taxi and a poda poda…and an AWESOME woman (or man) carrying coal on their head!

a poda poda is a van/taxi.
he called us over to ride in his and then said "i will have it working soon…please wait" HA.
it is the size of a mini van fitted with four rows of benches in the back.
i was not happy to have to ride in one.
everyone joked with me all week about my reaction getting into one.
i couldn't believe we were doing it….i kept waiting for someone to ask me if i was ok with it.
because i wasn't.
but no one asked.
so i got in…there were already 8 people inside.
and 6 more of us got in!!!
i was in the very back…that is pam in the very front.

and you know what?
i survived.
and it became my new favorite mode of transportation…there was music and friendly people.
at one point there were 22 people inside the poda poda.

22 people in a mini van….oh my goodness.
all you could do was laugh.

one day we rode in this man's delivery truck.
i was right beside him…worrying i would knock the gear shift when we hit the bumps.
faye and shelia were to my right.

counting money all the time….
.4000 leones to one US dollar….very confusing.

this was a pic of the market where we bought fabric.
i never felt comfortable in here taking pictures…worried someone may get upset.
so this was while i was talking pretending not to be taking pictures at my hip.

this is a coal iron.
the boys told us about it while sewing…wow.
fill it with hot coal to iron your clothes.

we all tried fresh coconut.
not a favorite…but not bad.

our breakfast at the Y every morning was bread and sometimes an egg.
we were sweating already at 9 AM and she would only bring out hot tea and coffee.
one the third day another man was eating there too and he asked for Fanta.
all of our eyes grew wide.
our table all asked at the same time "May we have Fanta too?!"
she nodded.
then we asked "may we have water?"
she had that too.
we didn't know we could ask for anything else.
it was so refreshing.
your choices were Fanta, Coke, Sprite and Vitmo.
i liked the Vitmo…it was like grape soda but a little less sweet.
but the best was big bottles of cold water.

yeah….we stood out just a little bit.

dan took us to lunch.
he works for Word Made Flesh…loved his dreads.
and his heart.
he kind of looks like jesus….

this was our toilet at the Y…the seat was broken and water leaked all over the floor.
we had a bit of a shower but the girls upstairs did not.
they had a bucket.
that is how they took their showers…pouring water over their heads from the bucket.
it was all a stretching experience.

more pics of the poda poda…
if you have seen a demo derby car…gutted on the inside…these are similar.

i get motion sickness…like really bad…i have had it my whole life.
i got very sick on this one.
i hadn't taken my Dramamine.
so i used the universal sign (that i made up) for "throw up" to kari and she said "who's smoking?"
ha ha ha.
everyone scrambled to find me a bag…but thankfully i didn't have to use it.
i was in a panic though.
when i was better and could talk and breathe…30 minutes after the poda poda ride…i told the girls
"i just didn't know what to do. if i stuck my head out the window to throw up i thought i might get
decapitated….but i couldn't talk to ask for a bag."
we all got a laugh out of it.

oh africa.
you are amazingly fabulous.

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tami reed - These pics are amazing I dont know if I could survive there lol.

Julie - Really beautiful pictures! I LOVE the baby in the sling!! I get motion sickness too ~ still. Ugh! i’ve hear the magnetic bracelets work but haven’t tried one.
I have one of those irons. Can’t imagine having to use it!

Colleen Jobe - Such beautiful pictures and such an amazing experience. I can totally sympathize with your motion sickness, you poor thing! I always feel like the high-maintenance friend, who either has to drive or sit shotgun. Being crammed in the back of a poda poda would do me in!

Ashlee Archibald - I cant help but cry when I see all your pictures. I’m a little behin but catching up this morning. It makes my heart heavy. I had to get up and make some tea only to realize that I didn’t have to go fetch the water… and I started crying again. thank you meg.

Kim - oh. my. goodness. that baby in a sling. CUTEST picture ever!! you can’t help but smile at that sweet munchkin.

Melanie - I wouldn’t like the motion sickness thing either:(

kristine - ha ha love it. great pics.

Molly Pearce - I love the pictures of the babies! I am so happy to be reading this about your trip, very inspiring and Africa is in my prayers!
~Molly P

kathy b - The baby on her momma’s back is a precious scene, the same the world around. You have captured the flavor of this country in a very respectful way. Your blog looks like a National Geographic Magazine article! Awesome photos.
Kathy b

Routhie - I love vimto! It’s British and one of the many things I miss. It is made up from currants, blackberries, and raspberries (I think), but the special secret part is herbs. That is what gives it such a distinct flavor. I rarely drank it fizzy as mu husband preferred the squash. You can really taste the herbs that way. Love, love love the photo of the baby in the sling, too. What a doll. 🙂

Rachel Ridd - great pictures. thanks for sharing as the trip goes along. your pictures are a great reminder to put my life in perspective. when I look at your pictures it’s not to easy to get frustrated bc I don’t have to money to re-do this or that!

Sally Mangham - Wow! These are incredible pictures. You are great at capturing the essence of the experience. Thank you so much for sharing!

Ruth - LOVE that happy baby!

Diana - Oh, girl, I feel for you… I’ve had that awful motion sickness all my life, too! But I can’t take anything for it because of my migraine meds. Ugh. The only way I cope is to either always be the driver {99% of the time} or beg to ride shotgun {when someone refuses to give up the steering wheel to me, LOL!}.
That was one happy, happy baby. Oh, to not know your world from any other, huh.
I’m sooooooo enjoying this trip with you.
One way or the other, Jesus was with you girls, anyway. 😉
♥

Karyn - I just have to say – I’m LOVING your photos of Africa. I spent 6 weeks in Ghana last year, and your stories and pics all are SO familiar. From the white bread for breakfast, to the bathroom pics, to the poda poda (called a ‘tro tro’ in Ghana), to the people walking with everything imaginable on their heads, to the FANTA (!!!!!), to the amazing beauty and resilience of the people, how they have nothing but so much at the same time, it all just reminds me just how ‘amazingly fabulous’ Africa is!
I also know EXACTLY how you feel when you say things like you don’t feel yourself yet, and I’ll tell you that may never feel exactly the same ‘yourself’ as you used to be. Africa is a part of my soul and I long for her. When you describe how you burst into tears in the bathtub, I’ve been exactly there, and I still am some days. When I say I know how you feel, I say it knowing that in some ways I know NOTHING about how you feel, because we all experience Africa (or anywhere) through our own life’s lens and framework of experience. But I do understand how difficult it can be to combine those new experiences with your ‘normal’ life, how to integrate and compartmentalize all that you’ve seen and heard and smelled and felt over those few short days. BLESS YOU for going and for sharing your experience with those who have been there, and those who haven’t. You’re doing an amazing job, as hard as it is, and I say thank you for sharing with all my heart. :o)

kari - still feel bad about the poda poda smoking confusion 🙂

linda lou - jesus is really good lookin’ (:(:(: forgot to tell you what part of mexico we were in it was cozamel (sp) not sure of the spelling!! its been a few yrs since we went and it was truly hot there!! for a woman like me with hot flashes not good for my personally ):
lindalou

pambuller - I am so glad you were behind the camera capturing everything! You are so good at that! Good job, Meggie, good job! 😉
Dan totally looks like Jesus. Good call.

AshleyAnn - I love this post and your commentary. The longing I have to go only gets worse with each of these posts.
Dan looks like Jesus…that was my favorite comment…I told my Hudson he needs a haircut. He told me, “Jesus had long hair and he was a boy.” Hudson is 3 and pulled the Jesus card on me.

Kirsten - Most excellent photos! And somehow it reminds me of my trip to NYC…and the frightening ride in the airport van…with the girl who (bless her soul) had traveled 26 hours from Israel and smelled up the van…I have never in my life smelled such body odor…no seat belts…and careening on and off the freeway ramps trying to beat traffic. I thought I might die.
And Megan! I had to tell you: my brother would watch these street vendors setting up their wares in the morning, taking them down at night, shoving their supplies under the shrubbery, hiding it all…and then these guys would come along and pee into the bushes….
Serious!
Never eat from a street vendor.

Rebecca - Thanks for sharing! What a beautiful place. We are so afraid of color in the U.S., and I love seeing people using the full spectrum in their lives! About the Vimto (not Vitmo:) ), I love it too. If you are looking for it in the U.S, check an Arab/Middle Eastern grocery store. My ex-husband is Saudi Arabian, and it was his favorite “home drink” that he introduced me to. I got hooked, and I still drink it. It comes in a lot of flavors, and in some countries with no alcohol (like SA), they use it in place of wine on special occasions.

Sara W - Sounds like an amazing trip! Thanks for sharing your pictures and your heart.

Ana - I found it funny that you find 4000 leones to a dollar confusing. Try living with the metric system (with all its beautiful zeroes and round numbers that are divisible by 10) for the first 25 years of your life and then coming to live in the US… now THAT’s confusing!!! 🙂

Rebekah - Fresh coconut and Vimto? *Sigh* In Senegal, where I went to school those taxis are called “car rapides.” They were our school mascot! 🙂 Definitely an experience. People often bring their animals (chickens, goats) aboard there.
Fantastic picture of the babe on mama’s back. Precious.

Jessica Reed - I love the picture of the baby on the Mama’s… hip/back. Precious. 🙂
I also get terrible motion sickness, it doesn’t matter what size the car is, or the condition of the road. If I’m driving though it doesn’t matter. Glad you didn’t throw up though, that’s awful. About being sick in Africa though… when we went on a trip to Kenya, one of my friends got so sick that she actually had to be hospitalized there, here body just couldn’t handle the food she had been eating. Sketchy. That’s about all I can say.

Heather - I am truly loving your photo-story of your adventure. Please keep them coming. It is my dream to go to Africa. Thank you so much for sharing your trip this way. How are you doing now that you are home???

natalie - wow these photos are awesome! and the commentary was great haha.thanks for sharing these!

CathyC - this post definitely had me laughing! I can see why you want to go back.
btw, I thought that guy looked like Jesus, before I even read your caption.

PaisleyJade - Such amazing photos – thanks for sharing!!

Christina - 22 people…I thought driving around town with my three kids in an air-conditioned mini-van was crazy. Ha! I have no idea, do I? I know I don’t.
That baby’s foot sticking out of the sling is perfect! Babies’ feet anywhere are just so awesome.
I love that you were walking in a line! Is that a cultural thing you had to follow?
Dan looks like he is one of the happiest people on the planet.
I would have a hard time using that toilet…you are an amazing woman. One that God used. (Woman, not toilet. haha)
I’m so glad you didn’t throw up…that is such an awful feeling.
I bet you were so glad to be home, and devastated at the same time. I cannot imagine. My husband is going to Africa later this summer with our church; I’m really nervous about it. Thank you for sharing your experience with us.

julia - love, love, love the pic of the momma and baby

Georgia - Meg, your photos as always are amazing. I would love to do something like this, to help, for the experience, and to help. I still cant believe you had to fly from Kansas to London (wooo where i live!!) then to Sierra Leone! crazy long trip for you!
They guys doing the sewing look so proud, i bet you were so pleased with what you and Pam taught them!!!
I hope you can go back there, and help some more!!!
Well done you!!!! xxx

Tammy R - I love the photo of the baby with his/her foot sticking out. What a great shot you got! All of these photos and the stories with them are amazing! Thank you for sharing!

linda lou - the photos are amazing and what a neat experience you got. when we went on a cruise we saw people and children in mexico just like africa and bananas every were you went but don’t eat them green ): tummy will hurt badly..
lindalou

sarah - That baby looked so happy 🙂
I probably would have been the sick one on the poda poda too. And I can’t imagine being there in Africa, already feeling out of place and then feeling sick. I’m glad you didn’t need a bag, and that you can laugh about it now.
Your pictures are amazing. Thank you for continuing to share:)

Becky @ Farmgirl Paints - I get motion sick too! It’s just the worst feeling in the world. Poor thing! I can’t imagine 22 people in the van thingy. That driver was giving you the strangest look. I wonder if they have ever seen a camera? Loved the one with the baby in the sling. Her little feet arched up. Great pics Meg…thank you for taking me with you!

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sewing
March 14, 2010 Filed in africa

one of the days our group of 8 women split into four groups.
my group was me and pam.
(pam is who convinced me to go to africa so that poor girl was stuck with me every minute of the trip)
pam and i were the women who sew.
we were asked to work with two of young men who are tailors…teaching or advising where we could.

I WAS SOOOOOO NERVOUS.

i am not confident in my sewing skills.
and pam is a rock star seamstress.
i thought they might not like me…just being honest here.

so at first i stayed pretty quiet…letting pam teach…and i took pictures.
first the boys had to teach her how to use their machine.

the machine was hard to get used to.
it was powered by….pam.
no electricity.

it was a good ice breaker because it made us laugh…really hard.
and pam has a fabulous loud laugh…mixed with a snort.
it makes everyone happy who is around her.
so we were ALL laughing very quickly.

this is finally what it took to "get it".

she was sewing!!!

pam chose this book to give them.
i thought it was cool to have amy butler with us all the way in africa.
it was full of patterns so she taught a clutch purse that they picked out.
and the fabric flower that attaches to it.

pam is such an encourager.
she said "great job" so many times they even started to tease her about it.
she was being honest….they were doing a GREAT job!

we also chose a pattern for pajama pants because it was the only pants pattern we had.
it was funny.
they don't wear big baggy pj pants like we do here.
so to him they looked wrong.
i said "what do you think?"
he said "big."
we laughed a lot.

they were proud of what they made…at least proud of the purse.
showing everyone all day long.
that was cool.

later in the week the women in our group were able to pick out many african fabrics for bags
to be sold through the water4christmas website.
the bags have been sold for a year or two now…and more to come.

that night we found out that the boys had carried the machine and table SO FAR to get it to the center.
it was a long walk up a rocky hill.
i could barely make it walking…let alone carrying a table and sewing machine!

we also learned that over christmas someone broke into one of the boys' home
and stole his sewing machine and all his clothes.

heartbreaking.

the people at Word Made Flesh were able to get him another machine…thankfully.

he wanted to make sure the bag was in a picture…and so did we.
amy butler would surely love it!

those boys are special.
pam and i already have many ideas for what to bring when we go back.
they didn't have pins.
they had one needle and it was bent.
and we will be armed with awesome purse patterns…just to name a few things.

i can't wait to see how God uses sewing in these boys' lives.
they are talented!
i was like a proud mama over them.
pam was too.

they are such special boys.

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Paul - I used to get everything loaclly when I lived in LA so I guess when I make things with them it still counts as being local 🙂 I have a great fabric store about an hour from me so every once in awhile I’ll make the trek. There’s a decent fabric store close to me and I get something good every once in awhile (so happy to have it around for notions, interfacing, etc. in a pinch!). Definitely rely on the internet much more now that I’m not in LA though.

Felice - I get most of my fabrics, nonotis, patterns etc from the chainstore Spotlight (similar to JoAnns), which is only about 20 minutes from me. My first preference is to shop at smaller fabric stores, but unfortunately Spotlight has pushed most of them out of the market.I’m a bit nervous about buying fabrics online, I’m always worried that when they arrive they wont look like they did in the pictures does anyone have that problem or is it usually ok?I would love to be able to find thrifted fabrics like so many of you do I’m obviously not looking in the right spots!

Kimjak - I am very fortunate .. I buy alot of my frbaic locally.. I have a Walmart, that has a frbaic department in the grocrey store [not very good on discipline..I visit tooo oftn,ha but They put frbaics on clearance all the time. so I have really built up a nice stash, with not near the amount of money!]I also live about 45 minutes from Hancock Fabrics, Hobby Lobby Fabrics. and they carry nicer frbaics and notions. And I heard a rumor that JoAnns Fabric was coming soon..[I am excited about this one too]But, I also buy on line from Fabric.com and ebay and Etsy. I just love getting the packages in the mail.. so fun..I buy most of my vintage pattens off of ebay.. Cant seem to get lucky enough to find them at yard sales and thrift store

David - – Everything youare fenileg isso normal changeis hard .LIFE takescourage and YOUhave it, girlie!Love that quote fromEcclesiastes and wroteit down as a reminder.This summer I drovefrom my parents acrosssome huge bridges toPortland, OR, to visita blogging friend. Thatwas scary but as with manyscary things, so worthit, in the end. Sendingyou happy Wednesday hugsand prayers, T!xx Suzanne

Ericka - touched my heart so much. i’ve been there. i am there. i don’t think being brave has anything to do with not feenilg fear. moving forward and walking in peace doesn’t mean that the powerful emotion of fear doesn’t rise up it’s stinkin’ head. it’s scary uprooting your family and starting over. there is not one thing easy about it. i’m the type to always look for a sign or some overwhelming feenilg of ahhhhhh. and for us this time it just didn’t exist. being really courageous means walking forward when you know that’s what you must do what He has laid out for you. the kicked in the gut feenilg does go away though. every day gets a little easier. that’s definitely something to look forward to. praying for you this morning.

thewatergirl - That’s the kind of sewing machine I grew up using…it was my great grandmothers. I just got my first electric machine this Christmas and I am still struggling to use it correctly.

heather h - i have already seen others post of the picture of his hand on her foot-idk what it is about that picture! but it is just so touching! sheesh…i wanted to hug those boys just from the pictures! can’t imagine how you and pam must have felt. i mean…after you recovered from the motion sickness in the taxi…cause i def know what that feels like 😉

Melanie - So sweet:)

Kara - I love your blog, and I just had to comment this time… that photo of the boy with the huge muscles sewing took my breath away … and not because of the muscles;) … It’s because here is this young, strong man with a tape measure around his neck, concentrating so carefully, sewing on this old, old sewing machine… making a living. Most young men his age over here wouldn’t be caught dead doing this, never mind getting their picture taken doing it, and doing it for a living…. I love the colors, too. Really, this picture brought tears to my eyes… amazing!

pambuller - they LOVED you, Meg!!! 🙂
every boy needs 2 (or 8) mommas.

Tanya - The whole story is beautiful. I love your photos.

Amber - Meg I was already on the verge of tears..and then I came to the picture of his hand on her foot, well that was it! So so beautiful, God has givin you the gift of capturing the small guestures that take our breaths away. I hope you will consider selling that print, I would love to have it.

Karina - I showed your Sierra Leone photos to my five-year-old son and he was floored. He could not get his head around people living under corrugated sheets of tin with bags of garbage piled all around. It did him a world of good to see that and stop begging for more toys to add to his mountains of possessions.
And this post is amazing. Those men could be models, they are muscular and beautiful. And they sew. I am speechless. What a moving montage…I cannot wait to hear what Amy Butler has to say. I would donate sewing supplies to those people in a heartbeat.
PS. I am sure they liked you. They did, didn’t they?

susan - meg, i love this post. it’s so sweet. i want to know how i can get fabric and sewing needles to these boys? take care, susan

Jenn Thomas - I can just hear Pam’s laugh. The first time I tried a treddle (sp??) machine I kept sew backwards instead of forward. It takes a skill. How Fun!

Jennifer - Well… I’m thinkin’ we should send them some stuff they need. I’m willing to ship it – I get a good discount through Fedex. Let’s send ’em some patterns, sewing needles, thread, etc. Anyone interested? We could send yards of material too…. Just a thought. Smiles, Jen

Elisa - Heartwarming….thankyou. I have my kiddos reading these posts…so important for them to see how blessed they are. Thanks for posting.

Chalk Inscriptions - My great-grandmother had a sewing machine like that and made us “crazy” quilts. I still have my quilt 25 years later. What memories seeing this machine. Cannot believe they are still used, but it makes since when electricity is intermittent.
You look like you have had a wonderful time! We are preparing to go to Ethiopia soon because of our adoption. Very excited, but so going to miss my kids here. That is always the hardest part. The last place I went was Tibet before I started having children. Of course Maui too – hahaha but that doesn’t count since it is a hop, skip, and a jump and the whole family goes!
Thanks for sharing your adventure!

Tegan and Tage - Meg, the photos from your trip are so moving. All of them. You could make a book out of them. Thank you for sharing.

AmyB - Aww! That is such a sweet picture!
Glad you had a great trip and made it back safely!

jaz - Oh my gosh, I am GLUED to your blog. GLUED TO IT. I swear I was in the middle of something, now I cant remember what because I cant stop reading.
You are awesome.

KW - Oh my goodness! I’ve never commented before… but if they need pins and needles and things, can we send it to them?

kelly - once again an example of how much we take for granted in this country. a really inspiring story, i am sure that what you have done will change their lives forever…

Karina Finotti - I have followed your blog for a little while now and I have to say you are a very inspiring mom and person! What a fantastic trip you took helping others and gaining so much heartfelt joy from all the sadness there. Amazing!

adrienne - loving this story!

Meredith Salmon - Now I want to start teaching my 6 yr old boy to sew. Both of my boys will learn. That is something that I think is special.
Thanks for sharing.

kristine - hot, muscular men sewing! i love it! those bags will sell big! what an awesome gift to share with them!

Queen Bee - Your post brings tears of gratitude to God to my eyes. The sermon at my church this week was about THANKING God for what you have & TRUSTING God for what you don’t. Your trip only emphasizes and brings this point even closer to my heart. Thank you so much for sharing. You have no idea the lives you impact here in the States by sharing your trip.

Courtney Walsh - Just awesome. This looks so practical and so real. I love looking at these pictures–they make me happy! 🙂
It’s so good to have you “back” though! 🙂

Laura - I think this story is so touching because it humanizes a small portion of your trip in a way that the photos from your first post just couldn’t. They were beautiful and devastating, but there was still a distance. The antique sewing machine, the modern sewing book, and the juxtaposition of the teachers being taught really make this story one that grabs the heartstrings. What a blessing you all are.

Shar - You guys are awesome to do this. Thanks for sharing.

Allison - I have a lump in my throat. I have a sewing machine (brand new) that I never use and in reality probably never will. I wish I could give it to someone who would appreciate it more than I obviously do. Makes me feel bad about myself that I would go and buy something that I don’t use and don’t really appreciate:( Reading about your visit to Africa is just making me think about these kinds of things that I tend to just take for granted.
Meg, I don’t often post comments, although I read your blog daily…you are an inspiring person. I just wanted to let you know that:)
Allison

tara pollard pakosta - That is just so inspiring!
I can’t believe they don’t
even have the needles they need
for sewing. But it’s awesome they
can do this and earn some money to live!
that must have been so great to be there
with them!
tara

Melissa Jackson - Hi Meg,
I came over by way of TBC and love your blog! I just loved this story of making the clutch and PJ pants with the young men from Africa. What an amazing way to bless their lives. Despite all they lack in life, they were able to have some moments of enjoyment with you all. You took some great pics as well. I have always wanted to do mission work all over the world and what an inspiring story! Thank you for sharing. I know I will be back for more stories from Africa.

Micah - I’m not surprised they carried the machine that far! Did you see their arms!!! I don’t think they got that way by going to the gym ;). What an amazing, heartwarming story.

Elisa - My fave pics so far!!

Kerry - Meg, this is awesome!! Such strong men with tape measures round their necks, making up a bag – it took my breath away!
I live in Africa, only 2 miles from a local ‘township’, so your photo’s to me were like looking at photo’s of home! We desperately need more assistance within our communities, so I take my hat off to you for making the effort and changing these mens lives, even in what you may think is a small way.
I collect knitted goodies for a local newborn baby project, within a community similar to the one you visited in Sierra Leone. I’m only a depot and delivery agent, but I feel good knowing I am sourcing and getting the goodies to these mama’s and babes. Some of the babies were going home from hospital wrapped up only in a newspaper 🙁 We can safely say that at this one hospital this no longer happens!!
Much love to you – Kerry, Cape-Town.

Amy - You know, I was feeling very, very sad this morning as my momma called to tell me some awful news – my Grampie passed away. Then I read your post and it had me crying in a whole different way. What a great experience to have with those special boys. My religion is something I’ve made up over the course of my life. It’s a “believe in karma/do the right thing/love people” kind of thing. This fits right into it. So heartwarming…Thanks.

amy Mumaw - Amy Butler lives about 20 minutes from me, I am going to send her these pics, I think it would be great for her to see!!! You guys are amazing!!!
Amy Mumaw

Kate - I am so proud of you, Meg. Thank you for sharing your trip with us.
I feel so happy and blessed to have come across this blog. I learnt a lot about life from your blog. It’s all very encouraging and inspiring at the same time.
Thank you!!!:)

Jenn - Simply Amazing is about what I am thinking right now too! I am so proud of you all… and I don’t even really know you! 😉 Blessed are the pure in heart!! 😉
Just Jenn~

Staci Danford - Simply AMAZING.. the whole thing. The trip, the sewing, the fact that you cared enough to go, getting over the fear, the wonderful photos, and of course the purse..
You have to feel a little like Super-Woman on the inside.
Staci

Meredith - Oh Meg…that picture of the boys with fabric, tape and an Amy Butler pattern to make a clutch purse….filled with joy! Of course you and your friend Pam would be the ones to bring Amy Butler to the streets of Sierra Leone. Love it, love it, love it….love them too and their beautiful spirits. You would have made them feel every bit as valued and loved as they made you, I am sure. Hope you’re having an awesome week. Meredith xo.

Cassie - wow.
i haven’t thought about it.
it’s been a crazy week.
and this post brought me to my knees.
much love to you tonight. thanks for bringing me back….

Becky @ Farmgirl Paints - I loved how you described your time with them. I would have been nervous too. So proud of you and your team. Amazing what giving a little time and energy can do to transform lives!!! Loved the last picture with you holding that purse…too sweet.

melissa mae - beautiful! what an amazing experience.

Staci - Oh man alive do I have goosebumps!!!!! I can’t even imagine how much you changed their lives 😉 (and mine) It’s just incredible…really really incredible 🙂

Christina - Wow, wow. The picture of his hand on her foot made me get tears in my eyes.
That is amazing to know you contributed to something like that. Awesome.

design wanna-be - I can’t remember if I’ve already shared this link with you, but if you are interested in sewing in Africa, my best friend has a blog http://fountsewinghope.blogspot.com/
about her non-profit organization called Sewing Hope. They do amazing stuff and it might be something you are interested in.

Anna Marie - You are already planning a trip back?!? I love that!!!

Cheryl @ a pretty cool life. - I don’t know why, but seeing them with that old fashioned sewing machine brought tears to my eyes. How wonderful you were there with them!
I’m sure if you shared this story with Amy Butler, you will be going back with lots and lots of bag patterns.

Susan - That machine is like a two-fer. You can sew clothing and get a good leg workout to boot. Where do I get one?

kbonikowsky - Teach a man to sew and he makes a bag! What an amazing way to spend a day! I love looking at your pictures, thanks for sharing.

Karen Gerstenberger - What beautiful and sweet young men. I am sure they thought you were angels sent from God. What fun it will be to bring them what they need for their work! God bless you and them!

Ana - It’s great that you ladies were able to teach these young men a skill that will be very valuable to them, without question. On another note, my mom sewed on a machine exactly like that one for years!! It was passed on to her by her own mom. I was never able to get the hang of that pedal…

Sharla - thanks so much for sharing these stories with us. It just makes me want to look for more ways to help people.

melissa - these phots are amazing!!!

Debra - Aww, how could you not love those boys!

Amanda - This is so great in so many ways.
My hear is full.
Bless you!!

Lisa Currie-Gurney - WOW… MY HEART IS SPEACHLESS.
HUGS FROM MAINE

Heather - Simply the most beautiful and heartwarming story I’ve had the pleasure of reading and seeing in quite some time;) I love the warmth and caring you have for the people you’ve met and the certainty that you WILL be going back!!

Kimberly Au - Thanks for sharing. What a wonderful story. The boys looked truly grateful for the time you spent with them.

Karen Lehmann - Meg – That photo of his hand on her foot…breathtaking…it made me cry…you should put it up for sale and we could donate the money…it is just so touching

Jacci - Perfect. My absolute favorite photo was the 3rd from the end. Loved that one of him working 🙂 What a tremendous blessing, Meg – the Lord can use all kinds of talents and interests! Sewing is a livelihood for these boys, and someday provision, Lord willing, for a family – which, I’m certain, is no small thing in their village. Good stuff, girl!!!

Flower Patch Farmgirl - For reasons I do not understand, this post made me more emotional than your last post. No idea why! It’s just all so humbling… Those big, strong guys, with a tape measure around their necks, so excited to churn out a clutch purse. You helped them, my friend. God used you. Simply amazing.

Rachel - Oh Meg… so much in that post. Why would you think they wouldn’t like you? That’s heartbreaking (although I do get it, I really do). And I bet your daughter likes AND loves you. A lot. But she’s a teenager and they’re not allowed to admit it (unless you’re giving them money or a drive somewhere). My daughter is the same way.
You had a life-changing experience, one that will take a very long time for you to process.

sarah - I love the non-electric sewing machine, and your picture of one of the boys helping get her going with it. To me, it was a very moving picture.
And that book is an awesome one, what a great one to share with them.
The bag turned out super awesome.
What an inspiration your trip is.

Julie - This is wonderful. Actually, this is more than wonderful! I love that you already know you are going back.

Diana - Oh my goodness, that could be my mama’s sewing machine (that sadly I don’t have anymore). I used it right up to the end… it was what I learned to sew on when I was nine years old.
Bravo to those boys! Excellent work on the bag! You should contact Amy Butler and tell her about this… you never know. *wink*
What an awesome time with those young men. Laughter is a world-wide language. 😀

Dana D@BoysMyJoys - This post made me get teary-eyed… and it made me want to go with you when you go back! That’s the thing about mission trips- no matter how hard they are on you, they leave you changed in wonderous ways!
On a side note, I have a sewing machine that belonged to my 94-year-old grandma like the one you used. Except mine is wired for electricity. It’s harder to use than my modern sewing machine, even though it has electricity, so I know it really must have been a challenge to use that machine AND a pedal! (Here’s mine: http://boysmyjoys.blogspot.com/2008/03/about-four-years-ago-i-was-still.html )

callie grayson - awesome, what an amazing time! and that purse is beautiful!
xx
callie

Jessica Reed - My mom has a similar sewing machine sitting in the hall way. I didn’t even know that you could still use them! This is so wonderful, and I am sure you touched those boys’ lives. 🙂

mary elizabeth - so awesome!!! what an amazing story. can’t imagine sewing without electricity. you girlies rocked it. look forward to more stories of the trip!!

maria - The picture of Pam’s foot with one of the boy’s hands – took my breath away – it is so Beautiful! so amazing!

jeanne - This is so beautiful! You should actually contact Amy before you go back and see if she will give you patterns.

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freetown
March 12, 2010 Filed in africa

we stayed in freetown during our visit to sierra leone.
it was bigger than i thought it would be.
it was busy night and day.
we arrived at night & we each asked things like "why are there so many people out in the dark?!"

and then in the morning….there were lots and lots more people….everywhere!
the noise was something that is a definite adjustment.
kansas is pretty quiet most of the time.

the group of people in the middle are selling goods…on the ground.
i can see white sheets or linens behind the car and suitcases.
there is a baby stroller holding a cooler for water? i am guessing.

this photo above was taken out our hallway window at the YMCA.
the building is a rehab center.
and people also live in this metal covered structure.

these are homes in Kroo Bay which is at the bottom of a hill…the lowest point.
i would guess that the bags at the top that are stacked and stacked…are trash.

this is looking back into kroo bay.

this a street in freetown.
barbed wire is around everything.
if not barbed wire then there would be a wall with broken bottles cemented into the top of the wall
to keep people out.

these are almost all taxis lined up.

homes.
i think they use their roofs to have some extra space…to dry things in the sun that get wet…
i also see buckets in this picture.
with no running water they fill the buckets at a pump and use it back in their home for everything.
we saw so many children getting water.
my own kids probably wouldn't even bring me a drink if i asked them i bet.
and these children would be carrying big buckets a long way back to their home.

these are shops in the street.
they are everywhere.
shops and tables of food and "stuff" EVERYWHERE.

these are homes.
and a shop in the front.
on the table to the right in a big tray with small plastic bags w=filled with sugar.
i didn't ask what was in the big bowls.

a clothing shop?
someone asked specifically about this.
it's just a man selling clothes on the street.

this looks like trash to me on her roof but i see a ladder
so maybe i just don't recognize the value of what she is saving on her roof.
we are a pretty disposable nation here in america.
rarely see the need to save something…we just throw it away.

this photo just makes you stop.
what an amazing skill she has.
so many of the people here have this ability.
but she is carrying so much!
wow.

a fruit stand with fruit i don't even know what they are!
they don't sell it at wal-mart.
the pink disposable bags are full of coal i think…for them to cook at home with.

the yellow building is probably a "nice" apartment.
that does not mean running water.
or flushing toilets.
and i will guess again that the big bags are…..rice?
total guess.
the backpack on the roof?? no clue.
it's a
mystery.

this is the good part of the river.
the worse part i did not get a photo of.
but it was the most unbelievable site i have ever witnessed.
more trash than water…big pigs snorting around in it…children playing…using the bathroom…

it was the most shocking site of the entire trip.
this photo is true.
we stood in the same spot but i didn't take a picture.

this is our group walking (standing out like crazy).
look at the man in the middle…8 baskets of coal on his head.
EIGHT!!

the rocks on the roof?
to hold it down…i assume.
these are questions i wish i would have asked.
there were so many questions.
and the paint cans? well…i saw people selling them…and then i saw children sitting on them as toilets.
but i cannot say that it for sure what they are meant to be used for.
________________________________________________________________________________________
humble homes built with what they have or find…
children…babies…sitting in the dirt…
strong people able to balance their livelihood on their heads…
and their babies on their backs.
more trash than there is space for…
pigs, goats, chickens, dogs and cats wandering where they please…
music and noise 24 hours a day…
bright colorful fruit that was hard to resist as you walked by…
sweating more than i ever have but no one notices because everyone else is just as hot…
people everywhere…walking and in cars or motorcycles or selling on the street…

being asked "ow di bodi?" (how is your body?) many times everday.
"mi bodi fine" is the proper response (unless you are sick)

just some thoughts i had while uploading these.

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josy - Heike,
Just a reminder that the [very worthy, might I add] organization Word Made Flesh specifically requested the items to celebrate the birthdays with — this was not just an “American” idea.

Tracy - WOW – unbelieveable pictures, Meg. I should show these to my kids – maybe they will realize and appreciate what that have more. Very sad situation over there for sure. Big hugs!

Courtney Walsh - Good chance I will never have the opportunity to go somewhere like this. So thank you for bringing it home and for reminding the rest of us to be so thankful for what we have. Not to complain when we have to clean up all of our STUFF. Not to annoyingly wash another toilet or shower basin.
thank you for being so honest.

heike - i remembered one of your pictures…it was a picture you took of some things you wanted to take with you…
and that was candy and sugar. for the kids to celebrate their birthday… i, a european, was shocked to see that some of the clichees seem to be true.
they desperately need water and americans bring candy.
sorry, but i thought about this one picture for a very long time…but perhaps you didn’t expect how worse the situation is…
love,
heike
thank you for sharing your freetown pics…

jenjen - Wow – just wow. It’s so much to take in and that is just from me looking at the pictures. I can’t imagine what it was like to actually be here and see all of that first hand. It really makes me think and reevaluate my priorities. It makes our lives seem so arrogant and full of inconsequential everyday things.
Thank you for sharing your experience with us.
XOXO
Jen

katie - you. sound. exhausted.
thanks for sharing.

jeanne - Thank you for the reminder of all that we have. We live in a country that constantly points out all that you DON’T have…and when you see these photos you can see so clearly what a horrible lie they tell. And that late night phone call…up for it anytime!!!

kristine - hi meg. i love your pics. what i learned from my experience in the townships in south africa, were that they throw their trash on their roofs to help keep them on for stability. some things seemed like good ideas like tires but other things like paper and lightweight trash didn’t make sense. but where else to throw their trash? how about just up on the roof?! (i’m assuming that’s their thinking.) also, we had some women carry our suitcases on their heads! SUITCASES! multiple stacked horizontally. and then carrying one in each hand as well. VERY impressive.

Lynette - Thank you Meg for sharing your pictures. I am amazed and humbled.

kelly@the blue muse - wow. i am speechless…it makes me realize how much we take for granted every day. all the little things we have that make our lives so much easier. how lucky and blessed we are. i think you presented these photos in the best possible of ways, and thank you for sharing them with us.

cre8ivegirl - anyone thinking they don’t have enough in this country…just look around at other countries! we are so rich in america. and blessed.

Sherryl - Unbelievable pictures, Meg! What an experience for you! Thank you for sharing.

Marla - You’ll have to go back so you can find the answers to your questions, now that you know what to expect. One gets used to being drenched with sweat after a while. I’ve never experienced such sweat before as tropical West Africa!

Paula - Meg, a reader from Australia here. Amazing photos, really make you stop and both appreciate what you have and want to help those that aren’t as lucky.
Funny that I don’t know you, but I am proud of you!! (Long timr reader, first time commenter.)

Meredith - Hi Meg, Thanks for sharing these pictures. Very humbling, hope you’re finding your equilibrium this week. Looking forward to seeing and reading more of your perspective and experiences when you’re ready. Meredith xo.

Amber - wow. it is something to see this on tv. or in a picture. but i can not imagine seeing it with my own two eyes. bless you megan for going there.

melissa mae - beautiful and so sad. thank you for sharing. its truly humbling to see this kind of poverty. my husband serve part of his mission in cabo verde, africa and said it looks just like this. it really makes you stop and think about how much we have and how much we have to be grateful for.

ayodya - hi! i’m a reader from Indonesia, and some parts of my lovely country looks just like that, some a little worse.
i grew up in America, so i can understand how overwhelming it is to see such a scenery.
people who live like that in Indonesia are the most warm and content people i’ve ever met. i’m sure you’ve experienced a lot of that in Africa too.
your post made me realize there are still many places out there with the same struggle.
thanks! 🙂

Joye - Wow. These pictures really capture such dignity and pride even amidst the poverty. They just tug at my heart.
I just stumbled across your blog and I love it!

linda lou - thanks so much for sharing your experience the photos are awesome and sad at the same time!
i’m glad you are home and safe and your wonderful family has you back (: linda lou

Diana - i knew your photos would be like this… but to see them… you know…
{bodi hugz}
♥

AshleyAnn - Thanks for taking the time and emotional strength to begin processing and sharing your experience…

Jen CD - Megan, So much of this is so familiar (yes, I know you were not in Colombia) the city noise, the buildings out of what you can find, the colorful fruit, the astounding strength and resilance of so many beautiful people, the creative use of items, the sadness. I understand. The other day I stared at a picture of a sidewalk in Kansas and I cried. There is nothing like that here. Thank you for going. I know it is a hard reality to witness.

sara - meg, thank you for sharing your journey with us. i don’t know what to say. the pictures make me feel embarrased for my selfish ways here. i’m so glad you & your group were able to go & make a difference in many lives.
love your blog
sara

Christy - All I have to say is… WOW.

traci - I have been following a couple blogs that have recently taken trips like this lately and am just touched. I did see in the last picture a satellite dish..lol Kinda struck me as odd. Also, I wonder if the people look at Westerners going there as a good thing or as a negative thing?? Did you get feeling either way on that?

nichole shinners - I loved the end when you said everyone asks you how is your bodi. It is just an example of how they understand the difference between the body and spirit. Something that I think is lost here in the states. Everyone here just asks if you personally are sick or how are you feeling. Which I have always thought is hard to answer. But if someone here were to ask you how is your bodi, you could say well the bodi is sick but I ( my spirit) am doing great, praise God! thanks for sharing!!

Victoria - Unbelievable pictures. The trash blows my mind and the river…wow.

Cally - These are amazing.

Kacey - Wow. We are SO lucky. How much we take for granted.

Brooke - thank you for sharing your experience and your heart – you did a fabulous job photo-journaling the trip, BEAUTIFUL images! God TOTALLY picked the right gal for this job!
I would like to photo-journal a mission trip in the next year. you and these works are a huge inspiration to me, so thanks again 🙂

Lisa - Meg, there was another group of bloggers who went to Kenya (with the Compassion Organization) at the same time you were in Africa. All of their pictures along with yours really inspired me to do something. So our family decided to sponsor a child, through Compassion, for a mere $38/month. We chose a little 3 year old girl from Tanzania. It’s not much, but every little bit matters to those children. Maybe it would help to soothe your soul if you knew you were continuing to help?
Some of the blogs: wearethatfamily.com
thisisreverb.com

gina - while these pictures break my heart none of the people in them look upset. it’s kind of like you can’t miss what you’ve never had- which is even sadder. my 8 yo was watching over my shoulder as i scrolled down and she was like , wow look how the world used to be. Need to do a better job of educating my kids on just how fortunate they are and what we can do for others- beyone donating food to the local food bank drop off box every time we visit the library!

mel - Wow. I have tears rolling down my face.
The pictures break my heart.
Thank you for sharing them with us.
They are such a reminder of how good we have it here in America. We are so blessed and I wish there was more we could do for 3rd world countries…..what organization did you go with?
Thanks again for sharing, it puts so many things in perspective.

Whitney - Megan, these photos really give one pause… My brother-in-law served in the Peace Corps in Sierra Leone 20 or 25 years ago and still keeps in touch with people he knew there. That country has gone through so much. I am awed by the story of your journey and these photos. What an amazing thing to do.

Karina - Beautiful, moving pictures. They transport us in a way words alone never could. I do feel like I’ve “been” there a little bit. And humble. Thank you, Meg.

Tegan and Tage - Powerful, powerful images Meg.

Jodi - Hi Meg
They are wonderful pictures, but I have so many questions!! Can you add a little bit about what we’re looking at? For example…the picture with all the hanging clothes by the street…just..everything!
Thanks!

Courtney - what amazing pictures! i had no idea it was so noisy! i’ve tried to picture the city many times from jody’s experiences…and never quite could. these pictures were amazing. thank you for sharing them!

susan - as i’m sitting here reading and seeing these photographs i look around at all that i have and realize how blessed i am. have a nice weekend. susan

shayla - WOW
these pictures are SO intresting.
There is a defenite poverty issue and cleanliness has been thrown out the window…but for the most part they all look so beautiful and STRONG. You can see how strong the woman is with the basket on her head just look at the back of her arms and her upper back. The men as well seem to be in excellent shape.
Its so intresting, they have so little/and are probably plagued with illnesses all over the place *thus the how your body* but their bodies look phenomenal. So intresting

Staci - WOW!!! I’m sooo showing my kids these pictures 😉 We need to be sooo much for grateful 🙂 How in THE WORLD do they balance those baskets????? It’s truly impressive!

Lisa - What a reminder to be grateful for what we have. Thank you for sharing your photos and experiences here. I am so glad you went and are back safe and sound!

Jenn - This reminds me of my church mission in Honduras. This is exactly what it looks like, and the people are the most lovely people on earth. It is heartbreaking to see the poverty, but there are so many people smiling. It’s hard to feel like a grump over small stuff, when you see how little they have and how cheerful they often seem to be. What an incredible experience.

cynthia - amazing photos….beautiful people…thanks

Lisa Hamilton - these pictures are beautiful. thank you so much for sharing. the colors are such contrast to their daily life. to me, it’s like God’s splashes of hope strewn all across their lives. how eventhough, we as americans, would have a hard time finding hope in their circumstances, that they find hope AND GOD in completely different ways. it’s definitely humbling and a reminder of how much we have. so much we have … too much we have.
thanks for sharing with us as you process … it changes us, too and we need that 🙂

sarah - The strength that those people have to carry what the need on their heads. The picture of the woman carrying that large, full, basket on her head made me stop for awhile. It’s inspiring.
My heart breaks for these people.
I can’t imagine walking through those streets and not wanting to just sob. Tears for them, tears because we have so much and don’t even realize sometimes all that we truly have been blessed with…

merlin - I wonder what is contained in that back-pack lying on the roof….treasure? someone’s worldly wealth? food? That back-pack has a story, whose was it, how did it get there, who will next claim ownership?
I would love to use my head so productively as that lovely woman with the basket. Can you imagine how great this country would be if everyone used their head so efficiently!
Everytime I see photos of Africa I am struck by the pride the people take in dressing well, the large numbers of children living in unlivable conditions yet smiling, and the overwhelming bleakness of dirt and rusted tin, it is a suffocating feeling and then the air comes rushing back in filling lungs and spirit with hope. Perhaps Africa is the most stark study in contrast, captured in every photo and image: desperation and hope.
Thank you for sharing.

Susan - This makes me feel so humbled and thankful. SOOOOO thankful for the amazing abundance I have. Thank you for sharing your experience with us.

elisa - wonderful pictures- you make me feel like I was there

a thorn among roses - i am overwhelmed with the need…i love how the picture speak way louder than any story or words…thank you so much for sharing them.

Jenna Van Aswegen - Megan!
I have become enamored with your blog in the past week. I really started reading the first day you came back from Africa. I didn’t even realize you were going! I couldn’t wait for the pictures and this morning there they were! You have really captured the lifestyle of Sierra Leone. God has truly blessed you with an ability to bring the world to light.

Flower Patch Farmgirl - Stark beauty. I’ve had so many thoughts swirling around recently and your words and images brings them all to the forefront. Specifically, when will we all move past merely knowing that we are blessed (which, of course, we are) and making changes in our everyday lives to change the lives of those in need? It’s not good enough anymore to just thank God for what we have in comparison to the rest of the world. So much more is required of us.
Just my thoughts here. I’m so thankful that you are sharing this deeply personal experience with us. It will change us, too.

Sue Schrag - You will never be the same. Thank you for sharing.

Becky @ Farmgirl Paints - Wonderful pictures Meg. You really captured the city. I’m amazed at how strong they are. That woman with all that on her head…unbelievable. She had muscles! No wonder with having to carry all that.
In one of the pictures it looked like a purse sitting on the roof. Strange that they have so many things on their roofs. I’m curious about that. Thank you for describing it so well. I wouldn’t have known about the noise level. I can almost feel the heat, hear the music and smell the city as I look at those amazing images.
We are so sheltered and comfortable here. Unbelievable that people live like that. I’m going to show my girls. They need to see how others live and how blessed we are. Can’t wait to see more.

Rebekah - Meg, these images are so familiar in so many ways. Even now, though it has been 9 years since I set foot on African soil, I can still almost smell, hear, taste and feel that place. Your pictures are beautiful. I hope you’ll share more.

Dana D@BoysMyJoys - When I saw the picture of the woman balancing the basket of items on her head, I thought, “Strength”. Then, when I read your words I thought to myself, “Meg should believe in her story telling abilities! Her words are perfect!”
Thank you for sharing these moving images!!!

Annie - What an amazing post! Thank you for sharing!!

jess - thank you for the reality check….your pictures are amazing and i can’t even imagine what you experienced…thank you for sharing…i am in awe.

Dina - wow…. simply wow….

`Kelly - I have chills all over and a lump in my throat. Thank you so much for sharing these with us.

Christian@Modobject at Home - The colors and the textures and the people are beautiful!

Liz - I am so humbled by looking at your pics! What in the world can I possibly have to complain about. I just go back and stare at the pics, and stare outside…quiet street, good neighborhood, strong brick house, porch swing. And I look inside–4 heathly children, nice house, lots of “things” geared to make my life easier!
I am humbled, and digusted with how much I take for granted!!!
Thanks Meg, for opening my eyes!

Susan - We are so blessed here and we take so much for granted. Thanks so much for sharing. I’m sure that lives were changed…including yours.

Shairee bass - Sitting in the tub & crying? I totally know what you mean, after the earthquake in hati I walked through the grocery store isles and wept. It is an amazing blessing to be in america. Thank you for sharing your experience and beautiful photos!

Krista - Love the new header, thanks for sharing your photos. It’s amazing that there are parts of the world that are so poor, yet it seems (to me at least) that the people there conduct themselves with such dignity and grace, they could teach some of us in the U.S. a thing or two!

Christy - Thanks for sharing Meg! So touching

Amber - I have no words….you are a wonderful human being, your family should be proud!

Erin @ Cultivating Home - The photos you have shared are powerful. They give a glimpse of the real character of the place and the hardships that permeate the area. I’m looking forward to hearing and seeing more of your journey. I find what you did inspirational and a great reason for introspection.
Thank you!
~ Erin

Gwyn Rosser - Absolutely breathtaking. Thank you for sharing.
Gwyn Rosser @ The Pink Tractor
http://www.gwynrosser.blogspot.com

Holly - thanks for sharing the phtoos!

purejoy - i have tears in my eyes as i look at these pictures and can only imagine the overwhelming emotions flooding your bodi. i was talking to a friend of mine last night about his time in uganda, and we were talking about some of my “friends” that have been in africa just recently (“friends” in that i’ve never actually met you or mckmama, but feel like i have) and i was just so overwhelmed by the images that i’ve seen. and as mckmama urged us to “not look away.”
your pictures tell a story that words cannot even begin to describe.
i get cranky because my hall bathroom is a symphony of puke greens. certainly not martha stewart worthy, or hee haw, for that matter. but i should be thanking God that i have not one, but THREE toilets that flush!! (whattheheck, there are only TWO of us here!!!)
counting my blessings.
and praying for you and for mckmama and pc as y’all process and adjust to being back in the land of plenty.

Lanny Stanard - Megan. I am sitting drinking my first cup of tea and Thanking God for everything I have wow those are some picture’s which I knew they would be… So glad your all home safely, I’m sure you were missed ! can’t wait see more. Have a wonderful day and God bless…

peta - what an amazing experience. you were worried about how to tell your story whilst showing respect. i am sure that you handled each and every moment you were there with the grace and dignity those people deserved. God chooses the right people for each job. that’s why he chose you.
look forward to reading more,
Peta, in Australia, the lucky country.

Cheryl @ a pretty cool life. - Great pics. Love the new header!

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not quite there yet….
March 10, 2010 Filed in africa

not feeling myself yet.
i know this is normal.

i took a bath my first morning and it was the best.
then as the water was draining out…something snapped.
i started to cry and i just sat in my empty tub bawling…all alone.

i took my kids to school today and then came home and crawled back into bed.
i slept all day.

tonight during the kids' dessert annie asked me to read her her new book "purplicious".
i had never read it before and i was surprised by the story line.
it made me cry.
i got so upset.
which brought all the kids over to see what was so sad.
i had big huge tears pouring down my face.
craig was smiling.
it was funny because i can never control the tears.
i said "i hate to see sad girls…but i think this must have a happy ending so i will finish"
it does…by the way.

so…i am not quite myself yet.
soon.
soon.

i can't figure what to share about africa…and how.
there are MANY many photos.
but it must be done with dignity and grace.
i want to honor the people there…not exploit them.

i am trying to figure out how to say what i want to say.

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Mohamed - There’s a UK stand up comedian cllaed Jo Brand, check her out on YouTube, she’s super funny. Anyway, she has this joke:Q: “How do you know when it’s time to do the housework?”A: “Look in your pants. Is there a willy there? Then it’s not time”I’ve adopted this joke to apply to basically any siatuation in life. You’re about to make a decision, act out a deed or utter a sentence. Will it be the right one? Look in your pants. Is there a willy there? If not, it’ll be wrong.The whole condition of femininity is that there is no way to do it right. It’s not a bug, it’s a feature the whole point of being a woman is to be constantly and tragically flawed. The Madonna/Whore dichotomy is not just a sexual hang up, it’s an underlying concept of perfomative femininity that illustrates the availability of only “wrong” choices and the structural obligation to strive towards one, or preferably all of them (as in the “yummy mummy” archetype). To be a woman in the patriarchy is to do being a woman wrong. What Barnea should really be ashamed of is the threadbare banality of his so-called opinions.

Casey - Meg, I’m just catching up on your trip. Your posts are beautiful, respectful and filled with heart felt concern.

Tanya - I didn’t like purplicious for a while either. it grew on me.
I cannot imagine the things you’ve now experienced. But leaving home (the US) does that. There is a change. And it seems to be great in you.

Melanie - Glad your home. Looks like you are a changed girl:)

cynthia - what a beautiful concern…”i want to honor them and not exploit them”. what an adventure you had!

H-Mama @ Family Team - I get it. I really do. I shared many tears with my husband when he went on a missions trip for 2 weeks in Calcutta (and it’s surroundings). It’s hard to give some feelings and experiences a voice. So glad you made it back safely… Will be looking forward to more posts… the words will come… in time. ((((hugs))))

Jennifer Dawn - Years ago I took a mission trip to Managua, Nicaragua. It just breaks you…it breaks your heart, it crushes everything you once thought about those living in poverty, and it tears you apart as you come home to the many luxuries in your life that just don’t exist there. I suddenly felt guilty for having a bed to sleep in, food to eat, hot water to shower with… I had to get to a place where guilt stopped and the realization kicked in that I have been placed in a position to make a difference and use my blessings to bless others. I know how you feel right now. Going on a mission trip is a beautiful experience that touches your soul forever… You develop “harvest eyes” for the world around you that you didn’t have before.
I had to speak to my church upon my own return. What a daunting task! I wondered how I would ever express in words what I was feeling in my heart and soul. I prayed for God to give me the right words to say–words that would touch people’s hearts, honor the people of Nicaragua, and reveal what I had experienced. The words just flowed when they needed to… 🙂 They will come for you too.
I am praying for God to use you in a mighty way…

linda lou - meg…you have had a out of body experience going to Africa and seeing things you would never see in the USA (: hang in there girl you’ll get back to normal in a wk or so(: far as crying go for it…its good for the soul and it heals our hearts and body. i’m a cryer and i get mad at myself for it but they say its healthy for us(: thanks for sharing so glad your back and safe!!

kelly@the blue muse - sometimes the things that make us cry are just gifts we haven’t opened yet…you will probably be discovering things about yourself and your trip for a long time to come, and we will be here waiting when you are ready to share them.

amy jupin - i loved your comments yesterday. thank you for your kind words. they mean so very much to me. i think ben and i were a match made in heaven for sure!
and i have to be honest, in a most selfish way, i’m glad you are back. i missed you so much! in a happy way–not a crazed stalker way–but you already knew that!
take your time, cry those big full tears (there will be many more i’m sure), and know that we’re all here waiting, ready to listen, learn and probably cry a few tears along with you. purplicious is a good book! we read it daily.
p.s. i adore your new header. love the polka dots. i got it.

gabrielle - Meg,
what a wonderful enlightening experience you had in Africa. I can’t imagine the hardships so many face but what a friend you have been to so many people. You are a good soul. I can’t wait to see all your wonderful pictures and they will tell your story with or without words. Glad your home and safe and healthy.
On a sidenote….I saw your daughers lamp years/months ago and could not remember where I saw it..for the life of me I looked everywhere on the blogs. Now I spy it in your daughters room..where did you get it? I love it! And if you get tired of your wigs..you can send one my way..ha!

Kirsten - Welcome back – I wanted to tell you, my brother lived in Abidjan, Ivory Coast for 4 years, working in the embassy. He said exactly what you said. Endless poverty and ignorance, so frustrating. He “adopted” a few of the street urchins, and when he’d come home he would get shoes for them, gum, maybe candy. And when he was reposted stateside, he bought his housekeeper a sewing machine. Probably changed her life forever. Good work, Megan. Be proud.

Dana D@BoysMyJoys - Your pictures are always so full of emotion, that I’m sure we will see truth in them, and not exploitation! Though I’m anxious to see them and hear what you share, take your time!

alyssa - I can only imagine how you must be feeling after a trip like that. I have a hard time not totally crashing after a highly emotional time-good or bad. I’ll be thinking about ya.
And I can’t wait to see the pictures. I’m with another reader, pictures are the complete package for me.

Mindy - You are the best! God always provides just the right words for you to share with us. And I love your tears! My daughter would feel right at home with you as she often asks me in serious and not so serious tones “Are you crying?”
If you shared too soon it wouldn’t be right. Take your time. We CAN wait.

gina - I can’t say it any better than shelly did, so I’ll just second it…
Oh Dearest Meg! I pray that you’ll never be “quite there yet”! Your journey has touched your soul and the mark of Africa will stay with your heart forever…not business as usual! I can’t wait to see the pictures of your trip—and I’m sure that you above all people will be able to capture it in such away that all of our hearts will be touched beyond measure!
God Bless your tender spirit!
I’m sure you honored them in the way you took your photos- you always seem to do that , so I too like the no words idea.

Amy - I can’t wait to see and hear what Africa was like for you.

Nan Carlson - Meg, I have followed your blog for over a year now and get such joy in your writing and pictures. I noticed a change in you when you started this journey. Your blog became more spiritual and your words were different. While I always loved to read the blog, now I crave it (if that makes sense). I want you to know that your journey has stirred something inside of me that I have been looking for and waiting for. The DRESSES ! Last night I cried to my husband (happy tears) and told him I felt for awhile that God was leading me some place, but I wasn’t seeing it yet. I have had a sewing maching for 4 years and never attempted to learn it, until a month ago. I now know that God is directing me to make the dresses and encourage others to do the same. I just wanted you to know…..keep doing what you do and feeling what you feel. God has put you on this on this path and guided you through this journey for a reason….
Nan

Lisa - We’ll wait as you thoughtfully and prayerfully decide how to share your story. It is so understandable that you are flooded by emotions right now – you need time to process the experience. Take good care of yourself.

Karina - You are certainly entitled to some reverse culture shock after that experience. I look forward to the photos when you are ready.

s.t. - we are so pampered for being able to live here in america…we can easily take everything & everybody for granted. it’s so easy to be greedy & envious of material things or things that doesn’t really last for eternity. it’s humbling when you go to third world countries–children there are just grateful for what they have & people there know how to survive without the updated luxuries/technologies we have & they don’t even complain like spoiled brats!

Andrea @ Big Creek Cottage - When you are ready…for now…so glad you are home safely.

Anne - You are such an inspiration to us all who read this. Whenever I travel, which is more often than most.. I shy away from telling stories and talking about my trip. It’s almost like I want to savor everything I learned, saw, experienced so I remember them longer. Just let your thoughts sink in, getting back to yourself will take a few days..but everything you experienced made you a stronger person. Can’t wait to hear about your travel when you’re ready to share. Until then hug your children and relax! 🙂

sarah - again, I can only imagine what you might be feeling.
and I know you’ll find the words, or the pictures to express and honor your trip and the people there.
I’ll be praying for you as you process all that you saw and experienced.

Julie - I live overseas. Leaving the US, even if it’s just for a short time, can and often does leave one speechless. Take your time to process all you’ve witnessed. I look forward to reading about your experience or just looking at the photos you took. I hope to go to Africa one day. My husband, who went to Somalia (during the Black Hawk down event ~ he’s a Black Hawk pilot and was flying during that event), will never go back so I’ll have to go it alone if I ever make it. It is a goal of mine though.

Kacey - Thanks for checking in. How wonderful that you want to honor them!

jen - Well, all of us just need to keep praying for you and all the people you encountered every time we see polka dots! Polka dots and prayers. I like that. Sending hugs!

Tonya - I have so much respect and admiration for you and the journey you’ve just been on! I’ll be praying that God will direct your next steps. I know you will serve Him and those you encountered on your trip well.

Art Cant Hurt - i think your picture of john 13:14 pretty much said it all.
the human condition and God’s grace came together for you to witness and you desire more of it – for everyone everywhere.
patience, my friend…..
xoxo

Sarah Mahan - Admire you for what you have done! The words will come…if not sometimes pictures speak for themselves.

Jo - Pictures with no words would be a blessing. Just letting us in on your special trip. You definitely left a piece of your heart there, and that’s a good thing. They know you loved the time you had with them!

susan - i’m certain however you decide to share your experience with us, it will be the right way. take care, susan

rebecca - I am so ready to read about your trip, but am willing to wait until you are able to pen with grace to honor those you met! I’ve lurked your blog for a few months now, and I just want to tell you it is a spot of sunshine and inspires me to live more ‘colorfully!’ Take your time – blessings to your family!

traci - Are you familiar with MckMama’s blog? She also just went to Africa with her husband. You should check her out, I think the two of you have much in common. I can’t wait to see your photos. I want to go also and fully anticipate being like you. I actually want to adopt from there and think I would probably be arrested for trying to bring a baby back in my suitcase..lol
God made us to MAKE a difference and you are!!

Molly Pearce - This past weekend me and my husband chaperoned our youth group to Metamorphosis. I witnessed 7 lives get saved and bonded with the kids of my church. Some from broken homes (like me), kids that had to grow up too fast and be the parent, others just lost in translation. It was the most beautiful weekend of my life! By Saturday night there wasn’t a dry eye in the church where the event was held. Me and my husband recommitted our lives to Christ and I can’t even explain the calmness and peacefullness I feel. I am so blessed to have shared this experience with my husband and been able to witness to the children, bond with them and become their friend. I didn’t know how to share my experience to others so I have shared my own testimony on my blog. God is so wonderful and I can’t wait to read how Africa has changed your life. Blessings friend!
~Molly P

Queen Bee - I just recently found your blog and began reading (and reading the archives). Your post today made me cry with joy. I know I could never do the mission trip you did because I too would come back so changed that I am afraid I would never stop crying. I love that you are so tender, so tearful, so thoughtful. I’ll pray for God to send you the inspiration to show the pictures in a way that honor the people you met and the work you did. You are such a beautiful soul. Thank you for sharing so honestly.

Colleen - When your eyes are open to a new world it takes a lot of time to adjust to the information your brain is now processing. It can definitely work on your emotions and feeling sad or unsure about a situation that you cannot truly control will bring out the best and wors of emotions…the anger and the tears….the frustration and the appreciation.
I haven’t been to Africa but 2 years ago when our healthy 5 year old daughter was diagnosed with cancer I was thrust into a new world – one I didn’t like but I had no choice, my eyes were now open to this world that I had only heard of and never experienced. It became our reality. We now live by the ‘One day at a time and through the grace of God’ philosophy and we take nothing for granted. Life is good. People are good. And… God… well He is there for all of us. Here, there, sick, healthy…He is the constant.
Take your time and process and then figure out what you can do with this experience.
🙂

angela - I love that you want to HONOR them….that shows your heart.

Kimberlee J. - Take your time. No rush. Feel every emotion and share as God leads.

kim - I have been to Africa, it changes your life.

Kim - I think anyone who’s ever been on a mission trip such as yours can relate. It’s inexplicable – the emotions, the guilt, the fears. Take it to Jesus b/c He wants to use this trip in your life for His glory! I so respect your desire to honor the people you met there. Looking forward to hearing more about it in time!

Barb - Be patient with yourself. We’ll be here when you are ready.

purejoy - i think the coming home part is the hardest part. you have seen so much and experienced something so foreign to our surroundings that it takes time to process. yet you are dumped right back into your life surrounded by people who haven’t been exposed to what you have and it’s just so hard…
take time to process. however long you need. we are patient, even though our words say we can’t wait to see what God has showed you…
waiting…
and praying for your heart.

Jenny (WildWoods) - Meg, take your time.
We are here, waiting with love in our hearts.
Take care of yourself brave girl. xx

elizabeth - I think your instinct to wait is good. And I’m sure there’s so much culture shock when you come back — feelings of being overwhelmed, of guilt of new knowledge —
Your spirit is good and we will wait patiently to learn.

Kate - I’m so sorry. You hang in there. Sleep is good. God gives us rest and peace in our sleep and makes us ready for His purpose. Take your time and know that you are loved. Your kids probably miss you so much. We can wait. You just love on them and know we are looking forward to seeing you.

Tere - I’m crying now, and I don’t know why.

Dena - I completely know where you’re coming from.
My husband and I did a 2 week mission trip, and when we returned it was really hard adjusting.
You come back to “normal life,” instead of these God filled moments, where you live and breath Christ.
It’s in the breakfast you eat and the faces you meet.
Plus, the love of Christ is on fire in other countries. These persecuted countries where the sanctity of Christ is there life blood.
I remember crying and sleeping. Not really wanting to be back. Looking out my window and thinking I’d still be there. It’s like your mind plays tricks on you.
I’m not a huge commenter but I just wanted to say you are going through such a normal transition.
Hang it there.
You did an amazing thing in Christ’s name & for those people.

Jeanne - I adore you!

Diana - whenever you’re ready, you know we will be here… and i agree with a couple of the others… sometimes the photos can speak for themselves… ♥

Kristi - I wanted to say hello and have really enjoyed reading your blog. I have been trying to read it all (and staying up VERY late!) and I’m almost there! You have a beautiful family and beautiful home! Very blessed you are! And your making me want to move to Typepad PRONTO! 🙂
I know you will figure out what you want to say and all your emotions are normal. You have been blessed by this.
Kristi

nicole - thanks for sharing the process….

DreamGirlLisa - You’ll figure it out, I know you will…and we’ll be here to see it when you do:)

lora - OH, I know how you feel! I went on a mission trip to Georgia last year….with my kids. We helped at a vacation bible school. My kids were both saved there. I couldn’t talk about it for weeks. I didn’t have words to describe it.

Becky @ Farmgirl Paints - I think it would be wrong for you to be right right now. Does that make sense? I don’t know how you can experience what you saw and did and EVER be the same. Just embrace the new you! We do. Can’t wait to see the trip through your eyes.

jenni - It is called reverse culture-shock. It is REAL, it hurts. Your life changed when you were in Africa, that is a good thing. In some ways you will never be the same, and this will be a blessing to your family and the world. But it will feel less awkward and sobbing in the bathroom weird-outs will diminish. Take your time and remember these emotions are God-given and Holy.

shelly - Oh Dearest Meg! I pray that you’ll never be “quite there yet”! Your journey has touched your soul and the mark of Africa will stay with your heart forever…not business as usual! I can’t wait to see the pictures of your trip—and I’m sure that you above all people will be able to capture it in such away that all of our hearts will be touched beyond measure!
God Bless your tender spirit!

katie - I went to sierra leone 2 summers in a row… once for 2 weeks and once for 2 months. The culture shock coming back to the states is MUCH worse than going there. It will get better, it just takes a while! It’s an amazing kind of hurt that God puts in our hearts. He broke mine when I went over there and I will forever have a piece of SL in my heart. Hopefully I will go back one day 🙂

Jen - Were you in Kenya, Meg? I was just reading this blog
http://www.thisisreverb.com/
a friend of Pioneer Woman’s who is in Kenya right now. Amazing pictures, amazing stories. I think you would enjoy them right now.

TheBookworm - Take your time to process! ALl of your readers are patient & will be waiting. No need to rush at all!
God Bless!

Gwyn Rosser - So glad you had this experience. I know it’s very difficult to assimilate back into your life here after seeing how they live there. And it’s a very, very emotional investment you have made in the lives of people who just don’t “have”.
My only experience in missions has been to go to an orphanage in Mexico, where our church goes a few times a year. I would feel so guilty for what I had. But realized that what they needed wasn’t what I have materially which I could never give them, but rather what I have spiritually, which I absolutely could give them. Glad you are back home to your family. I’m sure they are thrilled too. 🙂 Blessings!
Gwyn Rosser @ The Pink Tractor
http://www.gwynrosser.blogspot.com

merlin - I am glad that you made it home to your family safely.

Erin Kirby - good luck adjusting, meg! something that powerful and meaningful isn’t something that can be adjusted from so easily….life changing events are just like that. 🙂
good luck my dear!

Susan - Hang in there girl. Do what you can when you’re ready and when it feels right. It will come to you. God makes all things beautiful and possible in His own time. He will work through you.

the wild raspberry - i know that we are so terribly spoiled {and blessed} here in the states.
glad you were able to help some people in need….i’m sure they appreciated it very much.
it must be a very life changing experience.
hope you have a good night with your family and welcome home.
chasity

Susan - I like the pictures and no words idea too. I can imagine they are very powerful. You left a part of your heart in Africa. Glad you are back.

Bec - sometimes the pictures say it all 🙂 no words needed

Staci - I know you will find just the right way to honor those people and your trip 🙂 I have no doubt of that 😉 We are so tremendously blessed aren’t we! We have nooooo idea ;( I bet your family is soooo glad you are home 🙂 I know I am 🙂

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