Sunday, June 22, 2008

Shocking News from Zimbabwe

News came out today that the opposition leader, Morgan Tsvangirai, has pulled himself out of the race for the run-off election next Friday. With the increase of violence, threats and intimidation he says he is not prepared to ask people to risk their lives in voting for him. To read more see the articles here and here.

My heart breaks for people who were hoping for change and now may have no choice but to see Mugabe remain in power. But what will happen in the next week is still unknown... keep praying for a miracle. Zimbabwe needs one more than ever.

Friday, June 20, 2008

How Cute Are My Nephews?


I just had to post this picture of my adorable nephews Isaac and Ari. I can hardly believe they are already 8 months. They have changed so much from the little five pound babies I first met last October. They are super smiley and my brother Jon and sister-in-law Adrienne are amazing parents. I love being an aunt and I'm certainly a pround one!

Thursday, June 19, 2008

Zimbabwe Run-Off Election June 27

The Zimbabwe run-off election is coming up next week. We haven't heard anything from our friends in Zimbabwe for a few weeks, but things continue to get worse. On the BBC Africa website, a woman named "Esther" who lives in Harare is writing a journal about what she's experiencing. Her latest entry tells of people being being stopped at roadblocks and being asked to chant the Zanu-PF (Mugabe's party) slogan. Apparently you can receive a beating for not knowing it. Unbelievable.

I am continually amazed at the deteriorating conditions our Zimbabwean friends have to endure on top of extreme poverty, food shortages and one of the highest HIV/AIDS rates in the world. June 27 is a very important day in the history of Zimbabwe. If you are someone who prays, please be praying. Here is an excellent list to guide you.

Last night Joel and I had the opportunity to meet with a great group of people who were interested in knowing more about our time in Africa. I was tired and didn't want to go, but I left with a renewed sense of responsibility. These people suffering are not just some strangers on the other side of the world. They are my friends... who wake up each morning and try their hardest to make it through another day, who continue to have faith and hope when life keeps getting worse and who are desperately praying that June 27 will be the beginning of a brighter future for Zimbabwe. Please join with them and pray for a miracle on June 27.

Monday, June 2, 2008

Happy Birthday Jane!!!

Me and Jane at the farm on the May long weekend

Today my wonderful little niece Jane turns 4. Unfortunately we couldn't make the trip up north to enjoy hot dogs with her on her big day, but we did enjoy a conversation on the phone. Jane is great and it's so fun being her aunt. I can't believe in a few short months she'll be off to school. Happy Birthday Jane. Uncle Joel and I love you lots!! XOXO