Picture this!

It is difficult to put into words even our observations of life here. But maybe our pictures can give you a bit of an idea.

In Malawi, a child is considered to be an orphan if just one parent has died. There are many orphaned children here. Many orphans live with their extended family.


This past weekend, we visited a village near Lake Malawi. Family Practice residents from Quito - Jose Luis Vivanco and Marco Pesantez are working at Partners in Hope with us this month. Jose Luis is taking the picture and Marco is holding an orphaned baby as we visit with the baby's family.



We picnicked near beautiful Lake Malawi.













The guys also visited a feeding program for poor and/or orphaned children in Lilongwe. And, ah yes, that would be Jose Luis taking a picture!


This time of year, when corn fields are being burned, folks collect mice, kill and boil them and sell them along the road. Mice on a stick anyone?







I still prefer North and South American cooking. Friends Eliana, Jose Luis and Jessica (HCJB Global missionary) are sharing Locro (an Ecuadorian potato soup) with us in our dining room.

LIFE in Malawi

When we were here in Malawi three years ago, one of the streets that impressed us most was what we called "coffin row." This road is where the furniture makers sell their wares, but the majority of the stalls had only coffins.

This time back, we've been happy to see more signs of life! Like more furniture than coffins on display.

Three years ago, Partners in Hope was just starting to see patients. They now treat over 3,000 HIV/AIDS patients, bringing hope and life to many in the area. We've been delighted to share patient care, computer work and Bible study with the dedicated staff there.