The Cracks Are Beginning To Show…

One of us was beginning to show signs of wear this morning, and since I really don’t want to pick on anyone, I won’t mention his name, but here is his picture.



After breakfast we went and stopped by the embassy to make sure that our registration went through and that we had all of the proper telephone numbers in case we needed anything. Turns out that there are only 15 Americans in the whole of the DRC and we happen to be 9 of them.

From there we went to the main shopping district which is busier, dirtier, more polluted, and seemingly hotter than usual. We went to a little cubby of an electrical supply shop in order to buy supplies for the new children’s dormitory. We started with a $4,000.00 suggested bill, and since Paul had already seen the building, this didn’t seem right. Each line item was meticulously negotiated back and forth and after 2 ½ hours, Corrinne broke out in hives due to the something she came in contact with. Shannin, Beth, Doug, Christian, Ashton, and Elivia went to get a soda to try and deal with the heat. While crossing the street a truck just about ran over Shannin, and hit a big mud puddle splattering sludge all on her legs. Seeing as how they have no central sewer system or sanitation department to collect garbage, we’re expecting Shannin’s legs to fall off. The soda man ripped us off as he had Doug pay while speaking English and then went to Father Gabriel to ask for money in French. The locals realized what he was doing and started to tell the guy he was going to hell for ripping off a priest and missionaries.

Doug was quoted as saying “why would anyone want to live here? I’ve been here for a few days and I’ve already had enough!” I have to admit that the pollution, dirt, garbage, and general filth begins to wear on you.

We left the shop paying $312.00 for 6 spools of wire, wire nuts, and electrical tape. Can’t wait to go back for the rest of the stuff needed to complete the job.

From there we had a real treat; we went to a very wealthy section of town and ate at a very expensive restaurant that only the rich can afford – The Hunga Busta. There you can get Pizza (Is it delivery? No it’s Digiorno), Burgers, Chicken Fingers, Gyros, and Sushi – yes Sushi. We went for the Pizza – It was good.

From there we went to the orphanage…what a blessing to go out to the country. The country people are much cleaner than most. The bridge is totally out, on the way to the orphanage, so we have to walk in and the children came out to greet us this time. It was soooo rewarding! They walked up to us with arms crossed (to show respect) saying Bon Jour Papa or Bon Jour Mama then most would come in for a big hug. We have bonded already after only one visit – they are such a blessing. Corrinne and Livy led them in song and dance with Zach while Christian played the guitar.


Paul and Doug went to work on the electric while Ashton played a game of football (soccer for you Americans).

The children cheered when Ashton took off his shoes because I think he was stepping on some little toes. Corrinne has found a special place in her heart for a little girl named Gracie’ (Grace).

On the ride back, the traffic was so bad, and I think we got black lung from all of the pollution. Seriously, we talk about global warming in the US, but after being here, I really don’t think we’re the main contributor. Paul says China is just as bad. We’re simply not used to the air quality and our sinuses swell making us sound like we have a cold. We’d really rather stay at the orphanage in the country.

The Internet is down tonight for the whole country - even Paul’s phone isn’t working for data service – so you’re likely going to get this late. Sorry as we have so much enjoyed the back and forth and will miss hearing from you in the morning.

April, we’re loving your pithy comments; you’ve got the kids in stitches – keep them coming.

We’re looking for a bride for Zach – I think we could get him a cow and one giant terrier sized rat for a dowry.

We love you all.