We had an uneventful flight to Kigali, even arrived not feeling totally wasted! We were able to move into our rented house within two days, and have spent the past week just getting settled. Although large, it is turning into a very comfortable place, with lots of areas and nooks for several simultaneous activities. We have already had our first drop-in visitors (the pastor of the Anglican church that we attend here, who is becoming a great friend), and had our first party – our annual “Scrooge party” where we have a light buffet dinner followed by watching “A Christmas Carol”. There were about 20 people; some local missionaries, and a couple newly arrived to Rwanda. The following night we hosted about 10 of the 12 new Family Medicine residents, some of whom took a 2 hour bus ride to get here. What a sharp bunch of doctors - all eager to learn, to become fully competent, and truly improve the health of the average Rwandan.
I have already started work – a couple of major workshops related to health system improvement, and am already writing a paper on the results of one of these workshops. I spent a day with Michael Miller (my colleague here) with the family medicine residents in one of the district teaching hospitals, and plan to have all of the residents to our home for a Christmas dinner tomorrow evening. Michael will be spending the month of January in the U.S., so I will be carrying the majority of the teaching load, as well as hosting 3 different teaching couples who will be visiting in January.
Mimi has done well, working steadily and happily getting the trunks unpacked and the house in shape. In addition to reconnecting with many previous friends, she had a luncheon with the American ambassador’s wife yesterday, and then went to a local school Christmas production with her today. We will be celebrating Christmas with embassy staff on Dec. 23, and have been invited to Christmas dinner at the home of a local missionary for Dec. 25.
So, You are in Rwanda! I remember when we last saw you, you were contemplating a move. I am just sure you both are blessing the socks off of everyone you meet! I look forward to following your blog. Merry Christmas! Melissa M.
ReplyDeleteI'm so happy you made it safely to your new home. It sounds like the container made it without mishap also and I can see you, Mimi, getting all the "stuff" in place. The pictures are great, thanks for doing the blog It's a great way to keep up with you all. I was just thrilled seeing you both again last Sept. Blessing and peace this CHRISTmas season. Linda Kane
ReplyDeleteHey Cal and Mim!!!! So thrilled to get an update!! So grateful I can "imagine" just where you are. A block our so from the sweet avocado lady! I can only begin to comprehend what God is going to do in the next few years!! He has got GREAT plans to yet unfold! Please say hello to Fese...and all the gals! Let them know that I am THRILLED, you are there. Yes, a bit sad that I am going to Colorado in a week and you won't be there. It just won't be the same and it will be a bit hard to drive on by your exit! BUT, that being said, this Blog will help. It will give me the glasses to see a bit of how God is using you and I love that thought! Blessings in abundance friends! Merry Christmas! Love you so! Barbi O
ReplyDeleteCongratulatons upon your newest endeavor in Rwanda, Cal and Mimi. We are so excited for both of you as you begin to settle into life in Africa (again). It appears you have plenty of space for company. Perhaps the Fullertons could drop on by for a visit someday. All the best to you and Merry Christmas! Love from Brent, Cheryl, Maxim and Lauren.
ReplyDeleteMERRY MERRY CHRISTMAS friends! Love you sooo! Barbi O
ReplyDeleteBelieve it or not, this is my first time Blogging. I wanted to follow what was going on with you so I entered the blog world. So far so good for the first 2 minutes!
ReplyDeleteSounds like you hit the ground sprinting. I visualized all the events you mentioned so I could get a better feel for your days. I loved the picture of the countryside. Everytime I hear of the forgiveness that is going on in the lives of the people, it makes me evaluate my own heart of forgiveness. We so often get sucked into a bitter spirit without even realizing it for substantially lesser offenses than what Rwandan's have encountered.
Love you lots. Craig