More about Christmas II

Consider this theme epiphany, which is not too far from the truth. I want you readers to know that I received a boatload of Christmas cards this week through my friend Abigail, who just returned from the states. Evidently, someone I know and love cleverly figured out that I could be the recipient of letters, just like the shut-ins. I could not believe my eyes when Abbey dropped off the package. I haven't counted, but I'm sure I've got at least 100 cards to open. Well, now maybe only 50 left to open. I can't begin to tell you how much fun it is to OPEN MAIL! I am just loving all the great wishes and Christmas greetings. So what if its the middle of January? I hope the senders don't all expect a reply, or I'm in trouble! I will just say from the blog, that I am thrilled to be given such an outpouring of love. It is so encouraging. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you!

Photo: Three of the many members at Second CRC who have been praying for me and staying in touch via email and letters (from left): Barb Holtrop, Shirley Shaver, and Dottie Sikkema.

Need a door?

Driving around town, I'm impressed by the number of objects for sale in Kinshasa. Venders sell their wares right on the busy streets of Kinshasa. Everyday they peddle their merchandise by hand carrying: men's suits, socks, shoes, clocks, maps, food items, puppies, and kittens. During the Christmas season, they handled blow-up Santa Clauses. Yesterday, while I was taking a walk, a group of guards were selling a lizzard on a leash. Along the Huileries Blvd. is a medical supply store: 8 to 10 fairly decent wheelchairs are in full view, totally exposed to the dirt and rain only about 3 feet from the street. They also sell walkers, canes and handicap railings if you need them. Another shop displays a variety of toilets and a series of hand-designed mosaic sinks in their front space. Pots, pans, cutlery, trinkets of all sorts are occasionally available. And why not? What is the reason that stuff has to be purchased from inside a building? Think about it. Being 4 degrees below the equator, the weather is usually warm enough to not need protection from the cold. People have plenty of time to look at your merchandise while they sit in the traffic jams. If they see what they like and they have money to buy it, it's theirs! Note the accompanying photo of the local lumber yard, complete with a new door. Do you need a new door for your house? If so you had better grab it while it's available, or you may miss the chance to get one. Pay for it and it will be delivered on foot to your address. If you don't have enough money, a piece of fabric will work just as well. In the market for a car door? (As in your car door is missing.) You may choose from this great selection of automobile doors and windshields. If your funds are limited, tape over the open space. It might not be as convenient, but it serves the same purpose.