Back in the States

Loving the autumn colors!


Hi friends. I haven't been updating the blog recently. I sort of thought we'd either be seeing those of you who actually read this, or that you might not be so interested in our activities in MN compared to our life in Malawi. But, in the last week 3 people mentioned the blog and the lack of entries--so here goes....

We have been so blessed by our time in the states. It's been a wonderful time of reconnecting with family and friends, refreshment, and fun.

Here's a few answers to commonly asked questions:

Why are you home and when do you return to Malawi?

Our main reason for returning this fall was for Mike and Heather to prepare for and take our Family Practice Board Exams in December. We have a lot of refreshing to do regarding American medicine. We are also using the time to reconnect with family, friends, and supporters as much as possible. We will return to Malawi on January 7th.

How are the kids adjusting?

Amazingly well. They are attending school in Woodbury where we are staying with Mike's parents. Although they miss ABC Christian Academy in Malawi--they have enjoyed the new experiences like riding the bus, having chinese class and chess club

Syd and Sam in a McDonalds playland--one of their favorite American experiences

Did you experience culture shock?

Surprisingly, not much. I think we returned to a very familiar place and situation and in many ways, it felt like nothing had changed in the two years we had been in Malawi. Of course, the kids are all much bigger =) We also live in a bigger city in Malawi and have many of the conveniences--electricity, water, grocery stores, cars---so the US, although different in many ways, has many similarities which make it easier for us to cross cultures

The kids dressed up for Halloween with friends--Syd is Pocahontas, and Sam is the scary Spiderman =)

Please pray for us as we prepare for these Board Exams on December 3rd. Pray that we would not be anxious and that we would be diligent in our studies. Thank you so much for your support!