Decisions and Healing

Currently, I’m sitting on the floor (sorry, Mom) of a cushy hotel in Ambo, Ethiopia. Why is Olivia cushin’ it up across the ocean, you ask? Well, Sarah has been sick off and on (okay, mostly on) for the last 2 months. I’ve already posted a blog about our various ailments, so I won’t bore you with those details again, but Sarah finally got bad enough for long enough that we realized changed needed to be made. First of all, we did a few health seminars for the orphanage kids. We taught them the importance of washing their hands before meals, after using the bathroom, after touching animals, etc. After distributing toothbrushes, we covered how to properly brush teeth and had everyone practice. We discussed the value of showering often and made a schedule for the boys and girls. There were several other things we covered, all over the course of three days. The kids were doing great at implanting the changes, but Sarah’s immune system was so beat up that we knew a break was needed. The plan was to spend 2 weeks at Gimbie Adventist Hospital (where Taylor is), attempting to fully recover and boost Sarah’s immune system. While the Oregon missionaries were here, we spent a few nights in a hotel 20 minutes from the orphanage. We wanted to help with the health lectures, etc., but knew that Sarah needed to start recovering. They left yesterday morning, and we are now waiting for a Gimbie-bound car to pick us up and take us to the hospital. Though seen as frustrating by some, the delay in departure has been wonderful in my opinion. Last night granted me a full night of uninterrupted sleep, today brought yummy food, a hot shower, time to write letters, a trip to the Post Office (which I adore!), a stroll to a material shop (which made Sarah’s day), and time to relax. I haven’t had a day this relaxing and rejuvenating in a long time and am enjoying every second of it. Anyways, your prayers are greatly appreciated. We are in the valley of decision as to what changes need to be made to secure Sarah’s health and well being. I’m embarking on Week 3 of being healthy! YAY!!! We had a blast with the Oregon missionaries, were sad to see them go, and are already missing the kids. I’m terribly in love with them these days. Sigh. In truth, this blog was inspired by the mastery of my cousin Emily’s writing. She is a hoot and I could not quit laughing while reading her stories of being in Ukraine. No, this blog is not funny like hers, but I was merely inspired to share what’s been going on lately. Also, Mom noted that I had not blogged in a while. So, here it is—the saga of my time in Africa. I miss you all dearly. Hugs!