One week down, less than a week do go

First time at a computer this week so I wanted to take the time to write a more complete entry.  But others are waiting so it can't be too long.

It has been a fantastic week in Swaziland.  The weather has been beautiful, the landscape is majestic, and the people are so welcoming and friendly.  Our team has experienced great joy.

Each day so far we have traveled to one town or another to hold free clinics, distribute clothing, shoes, etc. and to hold special programs for the kids.  We also hold a worship service with the local church in each town.  I have been doing puppet shows during the services and they have been very well received. 

My roommate is a man from South Africa named Abednego.  He is our team's semi-official translator and has been working with me translating the puppet shows.  He is a fine man and a super interpreter, he not only translates the words but he also conveys the expressions and emotions.  I am so glad to be working with him.

I am learning more and more siSwati.  I purchased a dictionary that has helped me considerably. 

For those that know Jerry C., I suggested a siSwati name for him and Pastor Nelson confirmed this.  His name is Mahleka, which means "laughter."  Of course you who know him realize how appropriate that name is for Jerry.

Tomorrow is our day off and I will be traveling with a few others to the Swazi Cultural Village.  I am looking forward to this day, will blog about it tomorrow if I can.

Well, as I said, others are waiting to use this very slow, dial-up connection, so that will be it for today.