Beth in Burundi...and beyond!

Home, Sweet Home

2011-01-09T04:49:00.000-08:00

World AIDS Day 2010

2010-12-01T04:56:00.000-08:00

I am more compelled to honor WAD while living in Sofala Province, Mozambique
where the HIV prevalence rate is 26.5%. That means more than 1 in 4 people are infected with HIV, including children who get it from their HIV positive mother.

Many in the community came together to say, “Contra Sida em Sena,” which means “Against AIDS in Sena.” One of the more inspiring moments of the morning was a dramatization done by local youth (Peer Educators). They portrayed a family introduced to HIV through the father’s infidelity and the negative ramifications of certain cultural practices for those with AIDS. They managed to put some humor into the skit (for example the traditional healer was a man, but played a woman). I think this is the start to some good conversations.

A Day in the Life

2010-11-19T23:37:00.001-08:00

I’ve been in Sena, Mozambique for two weeks now, and I can honestly say no day is like another. Still, I’ll try to sketch out what my day looks like:

4:30 am Get up, put on my tennis shoes and walking pants.

4:45 am Out the door to walk with Joseph (the local Lutheran pastor), assorted guests to the project or by myself. This walk can last for up to 2 hours, but it is typically an hour if I go up the hill and back again. I meet the local people going to the “mashamba,” a garden area over the hill. We tease that I am going to work there also. Yesterday, an older woman actually teased me by jogging past me. I tried to join her, but she was tough!

6 am Heavenly shower in my own bathroom with running water. Mind you, it’s a trickle, but it’s refreshing. George, the young man who helps with chores, is usually at the house by the time I return sweeping the yard with a homemade broom. It looks nice and keeps the snakes away….good thing!

6:30 am I make a cup of coffee with my Italian coffee pot that works on my stovetop. Fortunately, I bought coffee in Beira because they just have instant in town. I either have eggs, bread, fruit, yogurt, or cereal for breakfast. I couldn’t find oatmeal in Beira, but I’m going to look on my next trip out.

8 am The staff of the Kuwangisana project (for whom I am an advisor) meets under the tree just outside my gate for morning devotions and daily updates. I have to say something too, but still need a translator…except to say “Bon Dia Todos!” (Good Morning Everyone!)

8:30 am – 5 pm This is our working time. I have the only air conditioned office since it is also the IT room. On the days when it reaches 40 C or higher (over 100 F), I am extremely thankful. I break for lunch for an hour and walk over to my house where George has typically made rice and beans. I did teach him this week how to make hummus and fruit smoothies!

5 pm – 8 pm I am typically exhausted, especially these past two weeks because of all the guests to the project, getting acclimated to the heat and serving as the second driver because one of our drivers is on holiday. I eat something (last night it was pasta with feta and tomatoes – pasta and feta purchased in Beira which is a 6 hour drive away), check to see if my kids are online, read a bit, take the second shower of the day, and crash!

A few other highlights of the week have been the goat feast up on the hill Wednesday night to thank several of our guests for coming to help the project and visiting a crocodile farm down the road to pick up some hippo meat for the orphaned children we serve. Next week I’m off to Uganda for a fund raising workshop.

Love List #1: Things I Love

2010-08-21T08:13:00.000-07:00

1. Kris Carr’s blog Crazy, Sexy Life. I got this idea of making a list of things I love from Kris Carr’s blog. I first heard about Kris when my daughter pointed out her video at the library, and I discovered someone with a lot of irreverent joy and tenacity when dealing with cancer. I’d love to be as inspiring as Kris, but I’m learning to accept who I am and go with it.

2. Mom. It’s still hard to believe Mom died early this month from cancer. She will always be remembered as my dear Mamawe. The 16th would’ve been Mom and Dad’s 53rd wedding anniversary. Dad and I shared a meal and a Dairy Queen blizzard to remember the day and their great love.

3. Gorgeous, colorful, vibrant flowers. My former coworkers at Argyle Winery sent me this bouquet this week, and it makes my heart happy each time I look at it.

4. The Oregon coast. I just spent a rejuvenating weekend in Newport with my dad, kids and sister, Laurie. With the heat inland, the coast’s cool air and shifting clouds were a respite. Walking, s’mores, game of Hearts, reading Lit, sleeping with the surf, eating at Local Ocean…all good.

5. Bitter Melon. I was turned on to this strange vegetable by the owner of my local Thai restaurant. She claims it will reduce cancer tumor growth. I can claim it is the bitterest thing I’ve ever tasted, but I keep going back for more. The following equations were found on the National Bitter Melon website:
One Bitter Melon Equals...
One Bitter Melon = 2 pieces of large bananas
One Bitter Melon = the beginning of understanding bitterness
One Bitter Melon = a size of my foot
One Bitter Melon = 89 cents in Oakland Chinatown
One Bitter Melon = one story
One Bitter Melon = conversations with grandmothers

Moody, yet hopeful

2010-04-03T21:13:00.000-07:00

I have always said that life is a mixture of moodiness (sadness) and hopefulness. In fact, when I commissioned this picture from my daughter's friend, Rachel, in high school all I asked is that she make it "moody" yet "hopeful." Lately, that has been my state of mind. I can't explain it all here, but life is like that. We experience great joys and great sorrows. I imagine Easter like that....moody, yet hopeful. We are in the dark in a lot of ways, but Jesus brings hope and validates our brokenness. I want to be more and more like that...no glossy words that make everything better, but walking alongside those who hurt. I can think right now of those who are walking beside me...Gaby (#1), Martha, Linell, Melissa, Pat, Laurie, Dan, Susan, Mom, Dad, Josiah, Stephanie, and the list goes on. I love you and appreciate you.

Possibly My New Digs

2010-02-05T14:20:00.000-08:00

Guess where I might live?

Dog Days of Winter

2010-02-02T17:59:00.000-08:00

Unless you're a dog owner you might not understand what joy it is to see your mutts jumping in the waves at the sea and chasing sticks.

And if you're not a parent, you might also not understand how satisfying it is to be with your kids and nobody else (except the dogs!). I gathered my family together this past weekend for a final beach hurrah! Some of our old patterns emerged: Josiah whipping us all at Scrabble with his wordsmithing, Gabrielle playing DJ with her I-Pod list ranging from Beyonce to Lady Gaga, and me cooking my mom's famous blueberry, banana pancakes. Even the dogs were predictable running until they exhausted every muscle in their bodies.

Some of our negative patterns emerged too, and hard as I might wish for them to disappear, they don't. I'll speak for myself here. I let my naggy, lecture mother come out. To be fair, I really want everything to be perfect before my move to Africa. It's just going to have to be what it is though. I'll spend time with those I love, impart my care and concern, and then let go (not quit, but let go)!

The Three Luisas

2009-12-02T08:32:00.000-08:00

It appears to me that Luisa is a common feminine name in Sena. It sounds pretty in Portuguese, especially when you put Dona (“Madame”) in front of it. Try saying it a few times, “Dona Luisa.” Pretty as it sounds, life for anyone, even a Dona Luisa, is tough here.

Let me tell you about the first Dona Luisa that I met. She’s the nurse on the project and has a strong, slim frame, short cropped hair and high cheekbones. She sees patients throughout the day and often refers them to the local health clinic for HIV testing. She keeps a log of patients and their HIV status so the project activists (lay health workers) can follow through on treatment adherence and home based care services. I don’t know if she has a husband or children, but I think she probably does. Basic medical services are lacking in Sena so this Luisa is an important conduit to care in the community. She also has some wicked dance steps that I witnessed one evening as I gathered in a circle with other project staff and danced the night away.

The second Dona Luisa I met was actually with the first Luisa. She was a client of the project seeking treatment at the local health clinic for the late stages of AIDS. I’ve never seen someone so near death from AIDS. Trust me, it was difficult to see. It was obvious that this Dona Luisa had been beautiful and was still in what should have been her prime years. However, AIDS had ravaged her frame to a thinness that looked extremely fragile. Her eyes were gaunt, her throat was white with thrush, and a sexually transmitted disease had produced cankerous sores on her most private areas. I only know this because she asked the others to leave the room so she could show me and the project director her suffering. Her sister was caring for her in the clinic as is the custom in Africa, but her husband had abandoned her after realizing she was dying. A couple of her children came to say “goodbye.” I asked if there was morphine to ease her pain, but discovered there was not even a Tylenol. I wished my touch could do more than show my acknowledgement of her deep suffering. She died later that week, and I can’t help but think that this was a blessing. I ask myself how she became infected, whether she was tested in the early or late stages of HIV, and why she had to suffer so much.

The third Dona Luisa was a maid at my little hotel. Before I talk about her, I must tell you that this is the finest hotel in Sena, but the worst hotel I have ever stayed in my entire life. It is brightly decorated with slogans to advertise the local cell phone carrier MCell and has a center courtyard where the proprietor’s goats and dogs live. The room itself is more like a cell than a bedroom because it literally has no windows. The toilet, sink and shower taunt you about better days when there was running water. Lately, women and children ride their bicycles or walk with their jerry cans full of water to fill the barrel from where all water comes. The air conditioning in the room cancelled out all other faults. I would trade running water for ac any day in Sena. It was unfortunate that the hottest day there (about 125 degrees) the electricity went out, and I baked overnight with mosquitoes blistering my flesh. Dona Luisa #3 is beautiful and young. She wears a pink checked outfit like the other maids and seems to have a limited amount of work because the place is never full. Still, she comes every morning about 5 am with the other maids and hollers loudly outside my room about what, I don’t know. This Luisa is probably my daughter’s age, but with a life that many young women could never imagine. Is she educated? Will she marry soon? Will she be a first or second wife?

All in all, I believe the three Luisas are beautiful, strong, courageous women.

CHE

2009-09-19T20:44:00.000-07:00

I must admit when I first heard of CHE I had no idea what it was...it only reminded me of Che Guevara. It's an acronym for Community Health Evangelism. I still didn't know what it was. However, I've been doing interviews at work with a couple of projects...the one I'm involved in Mozambique and another in Mexico...about Transformational Development and how it is lived out in the field. I knew that CHE was somehow related.

Well, this week I had a chance to see how it is related by attending a workshop where I was trained with 31 others on the principles of CHE. I would have to say that it was one of the most practical, respectful and humbling trainings that I have ever had. It clearly reminded me of my Community Organizing class, but we had a chance to practice and participate in the Participatory Learning Activities (PLAs) rather than just theoretically learning about them.

Since Transformational Development integrates the spiritual with the physical, social and econmical aspects of life, we learned about how to bring up spiritual topics within community groups. I admired that nothing was forced upon anyone, but the whole person with all their needs was recognized.

We'll see how this plays out for me, but it was foundational for whatever I do.

Just over 4 months and counting!

2009-09-10T19:39:00.000-07:00

It's been that long since I've been at my new job...career! I'd like to share some of what I've experienced. I was at a family picnic on Labor Day and someone asked me, "What would be one thing that would summarize your experiences at your new job?" I responded that it was a nurturing environment...especially in my department. You might ask how I am nurtured, and I would say I am mentored, given freedom to spread my wings (and fail - a good way to learn sometimes), and allowed to work managing the project in Mozambique from many different angles (report management, desk research, coordination of communication between partners, etc...).

I also love relational things about my job. I love eating lunch with people from programs or finance or admin...we talk about such funny things (sorry I can't share them all here), and I've even played speed scrabble between bites. Next week I'm going with a group from Africa, Asia and Disaster Response regions to a conference on community health evangelism. I love the inter-departmental interactions, but more importantly I love getting to know people. I even have biked from home to work with a human resource staffer....we're both in our 40's and are proud of ourselves. We'll see what happens when the rains start.

So overall, it's been a wonderful transition for me into practicing public health. As I notice with most of my life experiences, including the bad, they shape me and help me grow as an individual.

I'm right where I should be.

Casey Makes Us Happy

2009-08-08T08:43:00.000-07:00

Josiah, Gabrielle and I each have our own friends, but sometimes we come across a friend that we all share. Casey fits that definition. He started out as Josiah's friend in middle-school, then moved to Gabrielle's boyfriend in high school, and has become my friend along the way. He just moved back in town from Spokane. He doesn't have a car or a job yet...and he sleeps on our couch. Somehow I think his job right now is to make us happy. Thanks, Casey.

We are the World....

2009-06-25T20:19:00.000-07:00

Today it is fitting to post this video. The last time I saw it was last summer in Burundi at a very unexpected place...in the home of a local Ministry of Health official in rural Kibuye put in the VCR by his 12 year old son. RIP MJ.

Happy Father's Day

2009-06-20T19:21:00.000-07:00

I just listened to Paul Farmer speak at the Global Health Alliance online. He always inspires me and validates my work. Again, he stressed that poverty and access to care are critical to the health outcomes of a given population. This interview made me think of my father too (Happy Father's Day, Dad!)because he was a surgeon that worked across all levels of medicine to meet the need of the patient (including the smallpox eradication that Paul Farmer talks about). I remember hearing if Dad didn't know what to do, he would look it up in his medical books and move forward. Another great example for me!

Perpetua's Visit

2009-06-17T21:51:00.001-07:00

The Project Director for our partner project in Mozambique came to visit our headquarters this week. It's been a busy whirlwind of meetings and greetings. My favorite part of the week was going with my supervisor, her husband, and Perpetua to the Washington Park Rose Garden for an evening picnic. We started our own laughing club and made the decision then and there to grow roses in Mozambique.

Another important feature of this week was Perpetua's understanding of why I want to go back to Africa. She said,"But of course, your placenta is buried in Africa." The only problem is that my parents did not plant a tree above it. I think Perpetua and I will take a roadtrip through Burundi with that mission in mind. She has an adventurous and warm spirit which suits me well.

Bean Town aka Boston

2009-06-13T16:16:00.000-07:00

Please pinch me. I think I've fallen into a dream and can't wake up. I love my new job, except for one painful day when I felt like I took 10 steps backward rather than any steps forward. Overall I am learning and contributing to work that I always wanted to do!

Most recently, I traveled for a week of Monitoring & Evaluation training in Boston with the renowned John Snow Inc. This is all because the project I'm working on for Mozambique is a New Partners Initiative project with the United States President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), and they want to make sure we're well trained.

Not only was it a great week of training, it was a wonderful week to meet new colleagues also involved in similar work and to have some fun exploring one of the most beautiful American cities. Here's a peek at our week:

We got the doorman to get in a picture with us at our swanky hotel. We definitely enjoyed the jacuzzi and yoga at 6:30 am, but room service was a bit much.

Boston is famous for the midnight ride of Paul Revere. I walked the Freedom Trail and got to see his home near this statue. I also visited the Old North Church where he established a lantern signal to warn of the Red Coats approach, "One if by land, Two if by Sea." I had to call my dad to ask him to remind me of the significance of that church. It's funny how you forget American history, but it can come alive hundreds of years later.

Guess how we got to the airport from our hotel? We took a water taxi through Boston Harbor. Here's a picture looking back at our hotel and Boston's skyline. Lovely.

Lover

2009-05-31T16:29:00.000-07:00

About four years ago, I stuck a yellow post-it note on my white kitchen cupboard that read (in red ink), "Everyone, remember to love." It was meant as a reminder for my kids and myself. A lover is someone who is an affectionate and benevolent friend while a hater feels extreme enmity toward something or someone. Granted, sometimes enmity is warranted, but overall a love or graciousness toward others opens up friendship and opportunity. I believe it also heals us. We all have wounds or hurts. We all have an understanding of life that varies depending on our experiences and understanding. Still, I choose to be a lover.

As I prepare to leave those I love, I am cognizant that love travels wherever you go. So I will take it with me, but I ask that you, my friends and family, keep loving each other. Be a friend to those who need it.

Happy Birthday, Josiah!

2009-05-29T18:21:00.000-07:00

i carry your heart with me(i carry it in
my heart)i am never without it(anywhere
i go you go,my dear; and whatever is done
by only me is your doing,my darling)

i fear no fate(for you are my fate,my sweet)
i want no world(for beautiful you are my world,my true)
and it's you are whatever a moon has always meant
and whatever a sun will always sing is you

here is the deepest secret nobody knows
(here is the root of the root and the bud of the bud
and the sky of the sky of a tree called life;which grows
higher than the soul can hope or mind can hide)
and this is the wonder that's keeping the stars apart

i carry your heart(i carry it in my heart)

e e cummings

Happy quarter century, my son.

Explorer

2009-05-18T21:54:00.000-07:00

"We shall not cease from exploration
And the end of all our exploring
Will be to arrive where we started
And know the place for the first time."
T.S. Eliot "Little Gidding"

Africa calls me back. I want to dance and sing! This time my celebration will be tempered with mourning, not because I grieve the journey, but because I will see the face of sorrow. This face is the child who lost both parents to AIDS, the face of the woman dying without medication. These faces demand dignity and hope.

I have a new job. It will be to support an organization who knows this child and this woman and hasn't passed them by. I am humbled and ready. Until next year at this time, I will be preparing from a distance. Then Mozambique, here I come to join in the process of restoration already unfolding.

Iz NOT Fun-neey!

2009-04-04T12:01:00.000-07:00

Ten Random Thoughts About Our Family Vacation:

#1 It's not a good thing to smile at the Policija!

#2 The gelato in Croatia is as good as it gets.

#3 All mountaintop towns and coastal islands are eerily deserted except for the ever present town dog and town cat.

#4 Polka music is alive and well!

#5 The game, Rich man/Poor man, mimics life. So unfair!

#6 Muesli and yogurt are the breakfast of champions.

#7 My nephew, Austin, is a great sport on vacation with a bunch of "old" people.

#8 FKK means clothes optional beach. It was too cold for anyone to try this out.

#9 We have lots of leaders in our family. Good thing most of the decisions were already made for us.

#10 My brother, Dan, mimics "The Scream."

Extra #11 Thanks, Dad, for another fun adventure!

Unpruned and Dormant

2009-02-21T20:38:00.000-08:00

I've been doing some more housesitting in Martha's vineyard. This time of year, the vines are dormant, but in need of pruning. I find a great similarity between the vines and my own life. I am in a waiting period...waiting for a public health job, waiting for a relationship, waiting for my children to be self-sufficient, waiting on the Lord. I'm not always so good at waiting. It helps me to see nature imitating life. Not always are we moving forward, sometimes we are resting and replenenshing for the next spurt of growth. Have I ever told you Spring is my favorite season?! Bring on the growth...it's coming, and I will share with you as it unfolds. However, the pruning part might have to come first. I hope it doesn't hurt too much.

I'm Proud to be an American (African)!

2009-01-20T16:23:00.000-08:00

“What is required of us now is a new era of responsibility.” President Barack Obama

What do those words mean to you?

I realize former U.S. Presidents took the responsibility of their job seriously, but in my lifetime I can’t remember a president evoking so much unity in our people. So how are things different today? There are ramifications for our world both near and far.

What do these words mean for a white, middle-aged woman? They mean that I do not give up my dreams to work among the poor and vulnerable and that my hopes for my children, my country and the world are not in vain. They mean that my county, not of my birth, but of my citizenship, will help me shoulder this responsibility. God bless America.

I'm Dreaming of a (Fill in the Blank) Christmas

2008-12-20T10:56:00.001-08:00

Dreaming of a WHITE Christmas? It may not stick around that long, but look at the bounty of snow we have floating down in my yard! My kids are stranded at their cousins' house so I entertained myself by playing fetch with Jasmine and Bunter in the yard. Curiously enough, they love the snow. It may remind them of plowing through the waves at the ocean, another favorite pastime.

Dreaming of a PEACEFUL Christmas? For many this is a stressful time of year with broken relationships, bills piling up, and little hope in their lives. Our Christmas will be very simple this year, but also peaceful. I am reminded that Jesus was foretold as the Prince of Peace in Isaiah.

"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given,
and the government will be on his shoulders.
And he will be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:6

Even though Jesus was probably really not born in December, Christmas is a time to be reminded of his birth and teachings. My favorite Christmas song of all time is O Holy Night declaring Jesus' birth. Here's Jewel doing a pretty good version of it:

If you need more...there's a great gospel version of O Holy Night done by Mariah Carey.

So whether you be friend or stranger, may you experience a lasting joy and peace this Christmas. I'll be thinking of you as I romp in the snow.

Not to be redundant or anything, but...

I drag a boat over the ocean

2008-12-14T14:07:00.000-08:00

I drag a boat over the ocean
with a solid rope.
Will God hear?
Will he take me all the way?
Like water in goblets of unbaked clay
I drip out slowly,
and dry.
My soul whirls. Dizzy. Let me
discover my home.

(Lal Ded)

60th anniversary of Universal Declaration of Human Rights by UN

2008-12-10T11:12:00.000-08:00

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, "On this Human Rights Day, it is my hope that we will all act on our collective responsibility to uphold the rights enshrined in the Universal Declaration. We can only honour the towering vision of that inspiring document when its principles are fully applied everywhere, for everyone."

Inform yourself and check out the website for the UN Human Rights Day 2008.

Americana

2008-12-07T11:54:00.000-08:00

Football: a game played by two teams of 11 players each on a rectangular, 100-yard-long field with goal lines and goal posts at either end, the object being to gain possession of the ball and advance it in running or passing plays across the opponent's goal line or kick it through the air between the opponent's goal posts.

I’ve never really liked watching football on television…it’s too passive. However, being a former cheerleader, I love watching it in person. Last night I went back to Corvallis to watch the Oregon High School Football Class 6A championship game with my friends, Martha and Steven. We had a tailgate party (my first ever!) and enjoyed a lovely, cold, winter evening. Our team didn’t win, but Martha (another former cheerleader) and I stood almost the whole game stomping our feet and cheering, “We’ve got spirit, yes we do. We’ve got spirit, how about you?” Old cheerleaders never lose their spirit!

Thankfulness

2008-11-30T22:13:00.000-08:00

I find that an attitude of thankfulness serves me well. Even in turbulent times I’m able to see truth and beauty. Bad things certainly happen…more so to some than others. I don’t claim to understand why, but I do have a constant faith in God and will continue seeking to understand.

This Thanksgiving I have many things to be thankful for…

…a part-time job at Argyle with my old buddies and customers.

…two children that are relating more and more to me as adults, but still show glimpses of their dear childhoods.

…two dogs that don’t provide enough warmth for a three-dog night, but in Oregon (thankfully) the most we require is a two-dog night.

…a cozy home with yellow walls, plants inside and out, music playing constantly, and a place that I desire to be welcoming. Come see us!

…Walt’s Sherwood Appliance Shop. They helped me once again troubleshoot my washer/dryer problems and helped me fix the problem myself! I love small, locally owned businesses!

…Jacqui, Jenny and Becky, who are patiently teaching me how to play pinochle on ladies’ game night!

…the YMCA where I go to participate in circuit training, yoga, spinning, etc…I’m staying healthy even without health insurance!

…my family, Mom, Dad, Laurie, Dan and Sue and each of your spouses and children…you mean so much to me. Thanks, Dan, for sharing Thanksgiving with me.

…Emmanuel, you were my pastor in Bujumbura. It was great to share over 7 hours of one-on-one time with you on our way to and from Yachats. Our discussion on reconciliation will stay with me.

Advent Conspiracy

2008-11-19T19:46:00.000-08:00

My sister, Laurie, had this video on her blog and it really spoke to me. I hope it resonates with you as well. Season's best!

Wordstock

2008-11-11T08:08:00.000-08:00

Perhaps it's because our mother was a teacher (and made us look up the spelling of words we didn't know in a giant dictionary by the front door), but I love words in poetry, in books, when talking. Portland is a city obsessed with words too and has an annual event called Wordstock where writers get together and discuss their work. I missed it this year, but found some great quotes in the newspaper this morning. One was from Alexandre Poussin who made a journey across Africa with his wife on mostly the good graces of strangers. He says, "I believe you must have very little goals, but you must follow them to the end. You ought to wish little, but for a long period of time." The only other choice, " is to be unfocused, dispersed and to achieve nothing."

This same article quoted G.K. Chesterton, "An adventure is an inconvenience rightly considered." I LOVE that!

Yes, We Can!

2008-11-05T21:37:00.000-08:00

I went to the Obama rally in Portland on May 18, 2008 when 72,000 people showed up on the banks of the Willamette River. A young fellow OSU alum next to me shot this picture of Obama with his telephoto lens...we were about 35,000 people back. The Decembrists, a local band that is one of my fav's, was playing when we made our way to the rally. To the tune of O' Valencia, we (my friend, Jacqui, and I) smooshed ourselves into the throng. I'd have to say it was a moving moment to be among so many people and to hear Obama speak.

So on this day after Barack Obama has been elected the forty-fourth President of the United States of America, I hope for change. My hopes are for a national healthcare system for all our citizens, for renewed diplomacy among the world's nations, for the end to the war in Iraq, and for our youth to retain their new hope by volunteering at home and abroad.

Beth in Vancouver, B.C.

2008-11-02T18:20:00.000-08:00

There is almost nothing more beautiful than fall in the Northwest. I had a chance to experience it via train as I rode up to the International Conference on Urban Health in British Columbia, Canada. A cohort, Emily, and I were presenting a study from our Geographic Information Systems class last winter. We connected with another couple of friends of ours who were going to the conference and toured Vancouver together. I know these conferences are meant for networking, but I'd have to say the best part of the whole trip was getting to hang with the girls. They're some pretty remarkable women!

Dancing Child

2008-10-19T15:14:00.001-07:00

That's the name of this Cauzal Coffee, and it's liquid sunshine. Part of the proceeds from purchases can be donated to specific causes...for instance, to World Relief's Child Survival Project that I was involved with in Burundi. So do the children in Burundi dance? Many do...especially if they have enough to eat, are free from malaria, are immunized against measles, and have clean water to drink. You can tell where my heart lies. Children are the same everywhere. They love to play games, go to school, make music, and explore. If you want to join the cause, check out Cauzal's website: http://cauzal.com/mycauze1242.

Happy Birthday (yesterday), Gabrielle!

2008-10-16T13:46:00.000-07:00

Gabrielle had a birthday yesterday. I'm trying to remember what it was like to birth her 23 years ago...I remember the c-section and her coming out looking a bit like a little, old man. Wow! She's changed into a stunning, young woman. I was so proud of her yesterday. She wanted a haircut for her gift and donated 10 inches of her hair to Locks of Love. Look at her "before" and "after" pictures:

Then we had a blast in the evening going to Portland to meet two of our other favorite 23 year olds (cousin, Alana, with baby, Adelina, and best "sis," Cherise) at Marrakesh. Of course, big bro, Josiah, came along too.

Not only did we get to eat with our fingers, but Gabrielle got her own personal belly dancing lesson. Finished off the night at our car with the birthday cupcakes that Suzanne helped us decorate. Have a good year dear, Gaby! You are a bright spot in our lives with your exuberance and kindness. I love you!

Crush (noun)

2008-10-14T17:43:00.001-07:00

The harvest crush has begun right on schedule! These pinot noir grapes, Dijon clones from France, look just beautiful.

Steven, Martha's husband, is the tractor man. Do you see the forklift on front? It's used to pick up these bins of grapes and move them around the farm. Good thing for us because we're hauling a lot of grapes already!
Martha is doing what she does best...taking care of others. Josiah has a nasty case of poison oak, so Martha is applying calamine lotion before the day gets underway. (He didn't get the poison oak on their farm).
These are the farm dogs...black one is Maddie and the yellow lab is Warnie. Couldn't ask for two better dogs (except maybe my two dogs, Jas and Bee).
Isidra is picking grapes and has done so for about 3o years! Ditto for Mario, her husband.
It's Josiah's first year...look at him dumping those buckets....yea, for the bucket brigade! It's my second year, and a much better one than last year when it poured down rain!!!

Let the Birthday Week Commence!

2008-10-12T21:12:00.001-07:00

Gabrielle turns 23 this week! She said she felt like she was still young at 22, but 23 seems OLD!! We celebrated her birthday early with Mom and Dad since they're going back to Arizona the day before her birthday. We went to our favorite Thai restaurant in Newberg, The Golden Leaf, with our special server, Lec, who feeds us delectable curries and pad thai. Afterward, we each made our own banana split and played a game of hearts. Gabrielle often wins, but this time she let the really OLD player (sorry, Dad) win! While I was gone this summer, Gabrielle was invited over for dinner and games quite a bit. We're going to miss them, but this week is all about celebrating.

Martha's Vineyard

2008-09-24T19:37:00.000-07:00

I've been spending some time with my dear friend, Martha. She invited me to her place in the Dundee Hills. This is the sight I woke up to the following morning, Mt. Hood and the Willamette Valley in all it's glory:

The next day we hiked her vineyards and talked
about grape harvest. The grapes look and taste
great. Harvest should be about the second week
of October.

I worked at the Maresh Red Hills Vineyard Retreat today and was
able to continue enjoying the view. Ahhh!

It's Official!

2008-09-20T23:26:00.000-07:00

My presentation on my internship in Burundi and final oral exam were this past Wednesday. It's official...I passed and have my MPH! Some of the highlights of this program were my amazing fellow students...the Malaria Rangers...classes at all three campuses (OSU, PSU & OHSU)...our inspirational mentor, Dr. Chi...acronyms...going to the APHA conference in D.C. with Lisa...making lifelong friends...and finding joy in my work!

...and at the Oregon coast with Gaby girl!

2008-09-11T20:55:00.000-07:00

Beth in Oregon

2008-09-04T20:41:00.000-07:00

I live in the suburbs...it's a lot different than Burundi, and I am having some difficulty adjusting. Today was a good day, though. I went out to my favorite Lebanese joint, Nicholas Restaurant, and to Stumptown Coffee with my crazy friend, Suzanne. The coffee buyer for Stumptown stays with Trina and Seth when he comes to Burundi...small world!

We saw some beautiful sunflowers and a random plastic horse tied up to an old hitching post! It made me remember why Portland is also my home. Beautiful, weird, quirky, fun!

Buke, buke (Kirundi), Pole, pole (Swahili), Slowly, slowly (English)

2008-08-22T23:54:00.000-07:00

This past week was full of small successes. Our first promoters were initially trained to drive the piki-piki (motorcycles)! Their teacher was truly gifted, giving them incremental goals. Emanuel is a trained instructor with Yamaha in Bujumbura and coaches/plays on the Burundian national rugby team. (They’re flying to Libya to compete this weekend.) He told me that he enjoyed his time at Kibuye because it felt like a family. You don’t know how happy that made me. You see it is very important for me to work in an environment where it is comfortable to work, eat, talk, laugh, cry, walk, and play together. It’s how every family should be.

So I bid “adieu” to my new, extended family…to the promoters who change their hairstyles every week, who live away from their families so they can help other Burundian families, who are afraid to drive a motorbike, but go for it anyhow…to Peggy, the new accountant, who is affectionately referred to as “Mama CSP” because she takes care of everybody and laughs at their jokes…to Cyriaque, our driver for the past five weeks, who we call “Rambo” because of his endurance driving all the promoters around to their care groups from morning ‘til night, who is the eldest son and takes care of his siblings, who deserves a lovely wife…to Jean Baptiste, who is simple and yet complicated, who walks and talks with me in the early morning, who translates for me until he gets tired or I have sympathy, who has developed a health information system with me, who is my brother…to Emile, who will fake karate fight with me, who has stepped up to the plate to cover Chantal’s position and his own, who loves his wife and children, who I respect immensely, and who is also my brother. So goodbye, Kibuye, and the others I haven’t mentioned, but will remember. May God bless the work of your hands and heart and keep you safe.

There are stories I have yet to tell you. There is my new friend, Val, who came to Burundi a month ago from Scotland with her dear (hilarious) family to build homes for orphans and their “mamas.” There is Enoch, Seth and Trina’s young cook, who took me to visit his church and home last weekend. This was my first bus ride in Buja…remember Kigali, Josiah and Gabrielle, where we were 25 people to a 12 passenger van…same idea. There are also many more stories that I will either blog about as postscripts or tell you about in person.

I hope those of you who have followed along with me have come to understand at least a little bit of why I love this place and its people. I think my parents are a big reason for this passion. They didn’t just come to work in Burundi during the 50’s-90’s, but they came to be friends with the sick and the poor. Thanks, Mom and Dad.

The next chapter of my story is still unwritten. I am applying for jobs in public health and hope to officially finish my degree on September 17^th with my final oral exam and presentation. I look forward to seeing many of you soon.

With love, Beth

Undercurrents

2008-08-16T11:26:00.000-07:00

What started out to be another promising week with the delivery of the motorbikes and the installation of a new member to the team turned out to be disturbing. It all revolved around three separate incidents, the first involving subtle police extortion, the second involving a young man near death at the side of the road after a horrific bicycle accident, and the third involving an attempt to rob me complete with an angry mob and “justice.” I can recollect these incidents for you from my viewpoint, but there are too many details that can’t be talked about here and some viewpoints might differ. Suffice it to say, I hate, and hate is not too strong a word here, when power is used to intimidate people both on the micro and macro levels.

So in the midst of these power inequities we talk about transformational development and transformed lives. What does this look like in practice? I believe it looks very similar to liberation theology. Paul Farmer says in his book Pathologies of Power that for us to even get beneath the first level of “silence” with the poor and vulnerable, we must have compassion and solidarity. My journey brings me to this place where I must ask, “Who are the poor and vulnerable around me?” Certainly the mothers and children who are participants in the Child Survival Project are poor and vulnerable, but could the poor and vulnerable also be the young man dying on the side of the road who was traveling to the market to sell his crates of beer and the homeless man who tried to steal from me as he was looking for a place to lay his head by the lake?

My brother told me that I would just begin to understand the layers of what was actually happening in Burundi during my short time here. He was right, but there is also the challenge to look further to the layers of what is happening outside Burundi that directly affect it internally.

This intense week was balanced by the presence of Jean Baptiste’s family and niece with us at Kibuye. The tenderness and playfulness that I shared with the children made my heart happy.

Other Things I Haven't Told You

2008-08-10T23:26:00.000-07:00

You can receive “snail mail” in Burundi. I know because I have received two handwritten letters from my dear friend, Martha. However, it takes about a month to get here from the States.

I iron my underwear now. No, I haven’t become overly prim and proper. I wash my clothes at Trina and Seth’s on the weekends and hang it out to dry. Supposedly, there is something called a mango fly that can burrow into your clothes on the line and then infect your skin. Heat kills them. Urban legend?! Maybe, but I’m not taking any chances.

I have super powers. Some of you already know about my ability to turn off street lamps. Well, since there are no street lamps in Burundi, my skills have turned to knocking off door handles. If only I could find a meaningful use for these special powers.

Snakes can fly. At least that’s what Jean Baptiste said about the snake that our cook killed in our yard. It was fluorescent, bright green, poisonous and hiding in the bushes right at the entrance of our walkway. About an hour after its demise, we spotted another one nearby. I guess there are quite a few in the eucalyptus grove. Ignorance is bliss!

There is a song about “Beth” or “Betta” in Kirundi. I know because Emile and Jean Baptiste sing it to me! I got them to sing and dance for me so I could videotape it! I promised I would only show it to Josiah and Gabrielle so you’ll have to take my word for it.

La Promotricé

2008-08-09T10:57:00.000-07:00

I was asked to interview one of our health promoters by World Relief so people could hear the story of one promoter’s life and better understand the Child Survival Project. I want to share a bit of her story with you, but first I need to tell you that World Relief works hard to employ local people, the heart and soul of the work.

Here is part of Spes’ story. She is the oldest promoter on staff, about my age. The others average about 26 years of age. Spes was born in rural Burundi to parents who are subsistence farmers. She grew up and was able to attend college in Kenya with her husband because of a scholarship from the Free Methodist Church. So she was married, had children and finished college all at once. She came back to Burundi to teach Bible and English classes at a local Bible school while her husband worked as a pastor. This ended abruptly in 1994 when she and her family had to flee to Rwanda and then back to Kenya because of the civil war. Her time away wasn’t easy. While in Kenya, she experienced a stroke that paralyzed her left side. Mind you, she was only about 37 years old at the time. She forgot how to do many menial things, including typing, but amazingly she remembered both Kirundi and English. Her rehabilitation occurred at a local missionary hospital where she was renewed physically and spiritually.

The family came back to Burundi in 1999 and worked as before for 3 years, but they again feared for their lives and Spes’ health. So the family took up residence in Bujumbura where Spes did not have a job. It was hard to make ends meet with 4 children, especially as they were entering secondary school and university. A friend of hers who works at Turame, a microfinance arm of World Relief, told Spes about the Child Survival Project. Spes was hired and spends her week days with us in Kibuye and her weekends with her family in Bujumbura.

In Spes’ words, the reason she enjoys her work spreading health messages are, “I love working with children; everywhere I pass I see children. Also, I enjoy it when I know I am helping my own people especially the life of ‘small people’ here, ordinary people who are not very rich and do not have everything. If I go back to my family (mother and father), I see they are living the same type of life.” She also said, “The community needs more teaching to develop. They look as if they are 'forgotten' people.”

Spes is my kindred sister.

There are two sides to every coin

2008-08-08T05:46:00.000-07:00

I've been told that I am both an encourager and an enabler while here in Burundi. To be honest, this is true. Sometimes what I actually think is encouraging is keeping someone dependent.

I have been ruminating over these thoughts in relation to aid in Africa, especially while reading Dark Star Safari by Paul Theroux. In it he states, "It is for someone else, not me, to evaluate the success or failure of charitable efforts in Africa. Offhand, I would say the whole push has been misguided, because it has gone on too long with negligible results. If anyone had asked me to explain, my reasoning would have been: Where are the Africans in all this? In my view, aid is a failure if in forty years of charity the only people still dishing out the food and dolling out the money are foreigners. No Africans are involved-there is not even a concept of African volunteerism or labor-intensive projects. If all you have done is spend money and have not inspired anyone, you can teach the sharpest lesson by turning your back and going home."

An inflammatory statement, for sure, but worth looking at for a grain of truth. I'm still observing and learning. And as usual, I love Africa and want to see it thrive.

Kibuye

2008-08-01T23:54:00.000-07:00

The last time I was at Kibuye was in 1978 when I was 16. Our family came out to Burundi for the summer to open up a hospital. I remember a lot of painting and “assisting” Dad in surgery (it was the first time I saw the large intestine in its entirety- how does it all fit?). The house in this picture is the Child Survival Team’s residence and offices, and it’s where we lived “way back when.” Talk about “déjà vu.” Another house that I remember visiting often was replaced after the war in 1993 when 17 people came to hide there and were massacred. There’s a memorial grave near the sight.

Thank God for peace. We live quite safely there now. This picture is of our cook Berchamus, a young chap of 21, who makes us ibitoke (plantains), beans, rice and chai every day…not to mention the hot water he has been boiling for my morning wash. The next guy is “Herman,” which is not his whole name, but I mangle it, so Herman seems to work. He is our guard, groundsman, “go-to” guy, as is Christoph, the last guy in the picture. They are willing to put up with my Engirundi (English mixed with Kirundi) and lots of hand signals to get my point across. Without their assistance, we would be hurting.

However, one thing nobody in Burundi seems to be able to fix is the common door handle. Some company has a monopoly on the thing, and they fall off in my hands literally wherever I go…every home I’ve been in, church, hospital, restaurant, Governor’s office, etc… You get the picture. Someone would get rich, okay maybe not rich, if they could figure out how to make a better door handle!

I had to throw in this picture of Emile playing checkers with bottle tops with a local policeman in our front yard. Emile says he played for hours with his fellow students after exams in university. His prowess was evident! I’m glad we take time for play. I’ll let you know more about how the work part of it is going in my next blog. Counting down the final days with anticipation of seeing many of you soon (especially you, Josiah & Gabrielle), but also with some sadness because I am starting to put down some roots again.

"Umwigisha" aka Emile (the real teacher)

2008-07-31T06:36:00.000-07:00

Emile, our health education specialist, his wife, Séraphine, and their daughter, Graciella, had me over for dinner last weekend. Took my second taxi ride (still at muzungu prices…although I found out gas is nearer to $9 a gallon, rather than $7). Again, I was served a lovely meal which included this salad, something they know I appreciate.

Emile will serve as our interim program director. He calls me his “teacher” (umwigisha in Kirundi) because he knows limited English and has asked me to help him use it conversationally. He’s doing beautifully, and I especially admire his guts for just going for it. I’m very timid with French, but am learning to be bold like Emile.

Let the Care Groups Begin

2008-07-25T22:07:00.000-07:00

This one year old twin is the reason we are here...he looks like he is about six months old. His mother brought him to the health center because of diarrhea, vomiting and fever. That's Jean Baptiste holding him.

This week our health promoters got to practice their knowledge in the field. Overall, they did a great job! We couldn’t observe them all because there are over 200 Care Groups containing a total of more than 2000 volunteers. Chantal and Jean Baptiste went back to Bujumbura on Wednesday afternoon, so I got a chance to go around with Emile to visit more groups and debrief with the promoters. There are a few glitches that need working out. It’s been a struggle for the promoters to get to some of their groups because of the distance they have to travel. World Relief purchased motor bikes for them, but they are still in Bujumbura (2 ½ hrs away). The plan is to get them up here in next week and to train the promoters how to use them. Logistics are definitely a challenge.

I had two muzungu experiences this week. Wherever I go upcountry, I draw a crowd because of my skin color. When Emile and I were discussing the week with some promoters outside their home, I noticed a couple of small boys who were maybe 5 or 6. They were observing me, as I was them. After some time, I greeted them in Kirundi. One of the boys jumped up grabbed his face and ran screaming. I didn’t expect that reaction! However, I do understand the curiosity. I’ve been surrounded by Burundians all week and as we were coming back to Bujumbura yesterday, I saw a group of muzungus in Gitega (the second largest town after Bujumbura) and found myself staring. They looked so white and out of place. These children were a bit more receptive to me at our outdoor goat brochette restaurant.

I also have some disappointing news. Chantal has resigned from her position as program manager. She put a lot of energy and skill into her job, and she will be missed. I believe in Emile and Jean Baptiste, though, and I definitely believe in this project. My hope is that this will just be part of the journey and not a major detour.

Jean Baptisté

2008-07-21T01:23:00.000-07:00

Jean Baptisté is the Monitoring & Evaluation specialist for our Child Survival Project. We work quite closely together because a majority of my internship is working on monitoring and compiling data. This man is very easy to love. Last week he asked me the difference between “like” and “love” because in Kirundi there is no differentiation. I tried to explain it to him, but as you know, both “like” and “love” have many nuances. Because he speaks English very well, having gone to Theology school in Uganda and Kenya, I think he understood me. One of his favorite things to say is, “You give me your heart, I give you my hand.” Part of what he’s saying is that building relationships is the foundation for being generous, or “don’t just ask me for my money, but seek to know me.” He has been both generous and sought to know me.

I went to dinner at his home Saturday night. He is married to a woman, Mirielle, from Congo, and they have two precious daughters, Sheila (almost 2) and Donna (1 month). Mirielle made us my first hamburger in Burundi along with grilled fish and frites, the African version of French fries. I had another first, my first “taxi” ride in Bujumbura to get to and from his place. I pieced together enough French, Kirundi and English to communicate. However, driving in Burundi is quite an experience…the biggest vehicle always gets the right of way, traffic signs mean nothing (they don’t have traffic lights, although it honestly wouldn’t make a difference), there are no speed limits and seatbelts are optional (I prefer to wear them when available for the above mentioned reasons). Needless to say, I was charged the “muzungu” (white person’s) price for the taxi. There is really no standard rate or meter running. I didn’t feel too terribly bad about it though because fuel costs even more here than in the States at about $7 per gallon.

Jean Baptisté was a refugee in Tanzania near Kigoma for many years. He tried to explain the system for choosing which refugees will be allowed shelter in the States. From his perspective, people appear to be chosen randomly. It almost sounds like Charle and the Chocolate Factory when Charlie found the golden ticket. He is an example of a refugee who has done well despite his circumstances. But he, and many other Burundians, would really like to go to the U.S. In fact, Trina’s tennis coach teased me about trading skin color (along with a few other anatomical parts) and passports so he could go back in my place. Burundi can be a very difficult place to survive if you are Burundian, and although I like to call myself a Murundi-kazi (a female Burundian), I have been born with privileges unknown to most who call this their birthplace.

How to Teach a Man to Fish: 101

2008-07-19T01:49:00.000-07:00

First of all, what if he doesn’t like fish, but prefers goat? Secondly, perhaps he catches a fish and brings it home, but he must sell it for school fees for his children or for malaria meds for his sick baby. Then what?!

Being upcountry, I’m thinking a lot more about the poor because they are all around me. John Baptiste and Emile told me that the police recently stopped them at a checkpoint asking them to take two young girls with them when they were traveling upcountry. The girls were far from home visiting their mother in a local hospital. They learned that instead of going to school, these two girls work in the field because they are too poor to pay school fees. Per capita income is less than a $1 US per month in this area while nationally it’s about $2 US per week.

So why are they poor? Why haven’t things changed much since I was in Burundi 30 years ago? I can think of an obvious reason…the civil war. But I know there are factors of which I am not as cognizant. For instance, Burundi’s main cash crop is coffee. So I wonder who owns the land where the coffee is grown and who profits or does not profit as the price goes down in the market? Is some of this money going back into the country to help its people?

I don’t really have the answers to a lot of my questions, but I do know that the Child Survival Project that I’ve joined is a step toward righting some social injustices and toward placing structures in place that will last. This week we’ve been training promoters on our first health intervention (diarrhea, of course!). These promoters will train volunteers who will fan out in their communities with these health messages (including malaria, immunizations and malnutrition). If you know about my public health passion, you know I strongly believe in collaborating with the local Ministry of Health (MoH) in order to sustain the project. This project has included various specialists from the MoH in the training, and part of my job is to make sure we are sharing critical health indicators and data. The plan is for the MoH to continue the project on their own after five years and to use it as a template for other provinces. It was a good week for me to get familiar with where I’ll be working for the rest of my time here and for building relationships with the promoters.

El Santuario

2008-07-10T01:39:00.000-07:00

Where is your sanctuary, the place where you go to be renewed? When I think of sanctuary, sometimes I think of a church, but more often I think of a peaceful place with trees, sun and water. I’ve just been to such a place in Tanzania called Jacobsen’s Beach. I went with Trina, Seth, and a young family from Canada (Doug, Deanna, Maddie and Keza). Okay, so it may not be everyone’s idea of a sanctuary depending on whether you can survive a five hour drive matatu style, live without running water (the pump was broken), endure with limited electricity (the generator ran for a few hours each night), and adapt to wild monkeys who look cute, but go on the rampage for food (including in the kitchen and the Land Rover).
But how do you feel about sitting on a beautiful beach reading or snorkeling in crystal clear (warm!) water gazing at black fish with fluorescent blue polka dots or jumping off cliffs into the water or eating fresh fish and the best pineapple in the world on an outcropping overlooking the water? It’s important for each of us to find those places where we can rest so we can continue on doing what we do, and in my case, reflect on what I will be doing both here and in the future.

Ironically, (Josiah, am I using the word correctly here?), we met about 800 Burundians at the Tanzania/Burundi border who were seeking their own type of sanctuary. They were refugees, just like my friends the Kaburas in Portland, who are returning to Burundi after 36 years in camps in Tanzania. Of course, not all of them have been in Tanzania that long, some have grown up, married, and had children. The camps are closing down and sending roughly 2000 refugees back to Burundi each week. I counted at least 18 big UNHCR trucks in the caravan we followed. I tried to imagine what they must be feeling, perhaps anticipation and a bit of fear. Deanna pointed out a child to Maddie that was about her age (3 ½). She explained to Maddie that this girl was moving to Burundi without a home. In fact, they are temporarily sheltered in fenced compounds. Can you imagine trying to establish a home with no land and few resources? I pray Burundi becomes a true sanctuary.

Lake Tanganyika

2008-07-03T01:54:00.001-07:00

I took this picture at sunset overlooking Lake Tanganyika. Isn't it beautiful?! This is one of two dry seasons in Burundi so we can't see DR Congo across the lake. In rainy season the huge mountains and valleys of DRC appear. I find it comforting to find such natural beauty all over the world, and I hope the people of Burundi have the opportunity to enjoy it. I guess hippos are frequent visitors farther south, but I have yet to see them. I'm going to visit Kigoma in Tanzania for the weekend to stay at a little hide-a-way along the lake with Seth and Trina. Seth has this crazy idea of competing at "rock walk." We are supposed to pick up a really huge boulder and walk into the water until we can't hold our breath any longer. The person who stays under the longest wins! I think I might like speed Scrabble better, but I'm game for anything. I'm not just playing all the time, though. I've been in Buja working with my team developing health curriculum and summary report forms. I am growing more fond of Jean Baptiste, Emil and Chantal. I'll do a blog to tell you individually about each of them soon.

Things I Haven't Told You

2008-06-30T11:53:00.000-07:00

I missed my flight from Newark to London because the Greyhound bus was 1 hour 40 minutes late from Baltimore. And I thought transportation was reliable in the States. Paid my $100 and got on the next flight.

I had “elephant legs” when I arrived in Bujumbura…not a good thing especially since I had to take a 4 hour trip immediately up to Rwanda. Kept my legs up in the back of the World Relief vehicle the whole way and drank lots of water (thanks to Trina). Support hose is on my wish list.

Went out to see the lights of Bujumbura with Trina’s tennis buddies…two Burundian guys and another MPHer from the States working for Catholic Relief Charities. Thought I was telling them that I knew how to say “old, crazy woman” in Kirundi when I was actually saying “old farting women.” This is something Burundians don’t talk about…made me an instant hit with Claude and reminded me to pay attention to pronunciation.

I typed all day…in French! I was just transcribing, but I’m sure my French is improving. Needless to say it was all about diarrhea.

Used the rural latrine (you know the hole in the floor) and was so proud of bringing my own hand sanitizer and toilet paper in a Ziploc bag. Was eternally grateful for the nice man who asked if he could help me as I joined the group as he unwrapped my skirt that was hiked up to reveal my backside. Lovely.

As you can see, a lot goes on in the sidelines. I’m sure there’s more to tell, but it will have to wait!

Chez Brose

2008-06-28T13:23:00.000-07:00

I am back in Burundi and am staying in my brother's former home in Bujumbura with Seth and Trina Chase, some of my new best friends. Seth makes videos in Burundi for World Relief, Doctors Without Borders, and other similar NGOs. Trina is head of communications at World Relief, and they both host many guests in their home. I'll go up to Kibuye during the week and spend my weekends with Seth and Trina. Already, I've gone on a quick photo shoot with Seth, changed beaucoup bucks with him in order to buy a motorbike (for him, not me!), and gone swimming at the nicest pool in Buja. Trina has taken me to meetings at World Relief and entertained me with stories and her prowess at tennis.

Another highlight of being here was being entertained by the world famous Burundi drummers! They dressed in their traditional red and green gowns and carried their pounding drums into the Chase's yard. Once positioned, they set their drums down and their pounding echoed throughout the valley. Many drummers, including a small child, took turns jumping and flipping in front of us while the drums continued. I have no way to tell you how impressive the whole event was, but I took a video on my camera that I'll bring back with me!

I'll check back with you soon. My computer is having a bit of trouble, but I hope to get it fixed soon...it's very vital to my project! I miss you all.

Beth in Rwanda

2008-06-25T01:54:00.000-07:00

Tea is growing everywhere in Rwanda! We drove up here almost immediately after I arrived in Burundi. I am having some good bonding time with my child survival team. We are learning from a Rwandan team that has been successful in community health work. The people in the photo are the Rwandan driver, Emmanuel (our driver), Emil (our health information specialist), Jean Baptiste (our monitoring and evaluation specialist), Chantal (our program manager), Melene (the Rwandan program manager), and Beatrice (a Rwandan health supervisor). Lake Kivu in the background!

We visited two Care Groups in the field yesterday. First was a group of pastors (community leaders!) that give health messages during their services. For example, they demonstrated how to use oral rehydration therapy and talked about the importance of increased breastfeeding for children with diarrhea. Next we visited a group of women that have been meeting for 5 years for health lessons that they then share with their neighbors. I took a video of them singing about immunizations, but it's taking too long to attach. I'm posting a picture instead. It is so exciting to be here and see the work of public health in action. I'm acclimating...drinking lots of chai, sleeping under a mosquito net (after a mosquito bit me on the eyelid), using Kirundi and French when it comes to mind, and shaking hands with EVERYONE I meet! Health Message for the day: "The breast milk of a poor person is the same as for the rich person." (Melene)

Rwanda is known as "land of a thousand hills." Unfortunately, it is also susceptible to earthquakes. A magnitude 5 earthquake occurred in January and did great damage to a rural hospital that we visited. UNICEF has come in with temporary hospital tents.
I also have to include this adorable picture of a little girl dressed in traditional garb. She did not crack a smile...even when I said "Mwaramutse."

World Refugee Day

2008-06-20T05:34:00.000-07:00

Refugees have done more for my heart and my spirit than I can ever express in words. They've changed my life with their friendship, love, courage and loyalty - Angelina Jolie, Goodwill Ambassador, UNHCR

Refugees are people forced to flee from their countries as a result of true life-threatening dangers. From the heart I hope that these -- our brothers and sisters so tried by suffering -- are guaranteed asylum and the recognition of their rights - Pope Benedict XVI

As a country that has seen so many refugees contribute so much to our society, this day has special meaning for Americans. I am proud that we are the largest donor to the UNHCR - US President George W. Bush statement on WRD 2002

Facing deportation from Croatia back to Bosnia because I did not have a valid visa, I registered with UNHCR and received refugee status. At the time I was eight months pregnant, my country Bosnia was still at war and it would have been devastating if I was sent back. UNHCR saved me from deportation until I could get a visa to Australia. - Mirzeta Trnka, former refugee from Bosnia

Refugees show incredible courage and perseverance in overcoming enormous odds to rebuild their lives. Ensuring that they get the protection they deserve is a noble cause because refugee rights are human rights - and rights that belong to us all. - Antonio Guterres, UNHCR High Commissioner

One of the greatest protections we can offer an individual is economic security. We are proud to work with UNHCR to protect the basic human right to access job training and meaningful work at fair wages. - David Arkless, Manpower Inc. Senior Vice President of Global Corporate Affairs

I want to tell about refugee issues especially to the young. They shape opinions in their own environment and within their families - Barbara Hendricks, Opera singer and Goodwill Ambassador, UNHCR

"Having three meals a day, drinking clean water, a chance to attend school and and to go to hospital when I'm sick... to have permanent shelter over my head and to sleep well without the sound of gunshots or bombs. That is what protection means to me." - David Vincent, a former Sudanese refugee who is a member of the UNHCR Speakers Bureau in Australia

I'm on my way to Burundi today from Baltimore...to Newark...to London...to Nairobi...to Bujumbura.

Logistics and Flexibility

2008-06-18T17:49:00.000-07:00

I had my first test to show whether I am really ready to travel to and work in an unknown setting. It all started with my commute across country to World Relief's headquarters in Baltimore, MD. First, the "red-eye" from Portland to Newark, a few commuter trains, and then the Greyhound from Newark to Baltimore. A highlight was meeting a man from Kenya, Henry, in Newark. He was also riding the bus to Baltimore, and we became friends looking at pictures of his wife and three kids back in Kenya (he doesn't want the kids to come here until college to protect them from bad influences), talking about growing the biggest avocados ever, etc...He even checked one of my bags at the bus station so I wouldn't have to pay the extra $5. Then he helped me get my bags to a taxi once I arrived in Baltimore...not until after meetings at headquarters did I realize one of my bags was the wrong one! I became aware of how exhaustion, loss of control, and the possibility of no clothes (and chocolate) could change my whole outlook. I also was distinctly aware of how my ultimate response could mirror my response to the unknown entities in my life. I had to let go. Fortunately, a World Relief staffer stepped in to continue calling the bus station until someone answered. The bag was found and exchanged the next day with the poor guy's bag that I took. One step closer to Burundi. Today I hopped over to DC to the USAID offices to hear the National Institute of Public Health in Burundi presentation on health organization and priorities in the country. Fascinating stuff!

MPH Recognition Ceremony

2008-06-15T21:23:00.000-07:00

I had a dream of Africa...and today was my launching pad. Next stop, Burundi.

It Takes A Village - Part Two

2008-06-09T22:34:00.000-07:00

This lovely girl is my daughter, Gabrielle. I haven't seen her in over a week while she was with her brother at the wedding back East and then on to Toronto to visit relatives. (And to think we'll be apart for ten weeks). She came back from her trip very relaxed...Thanks, Aunt Kathy. We had a two hour walk with the dogs today and caught up on life. I love that girl!

Burundi Countryside

2008-05-31T21:47:00.000-07:00

This is how I remember Burundi. I'll let you know if much has changed. Here's a link to a website with more pictures of the people and place of Burundi. In epidemiology, we're studying how people, place, and time all contribute to the etiology of disease. Throw globalization into the mix, and it even gets more interesting. I would highly recommend the biography about Paul Farmer, a public health doc, called "Mountains Beyond Mountains" by Tracy Kidder that further develops these ideas.

It Takes a Village to Raise a Child

2008-05-29T09:13:00.000-07:00

Today my wonderful, amazing son, Josiah, turns 24! He's in New Jersey/New York to be best man in his friend, Ben's wedding. Over the years many people have been an influence in his life...his two music teachers, Mrs. Davies taught him piano at six, Dan P.C. taught him his beloved guitar in jr. high...his friend since they were both four, Tyler...his Aunt Laurie who shares his passion for stories and writing...Grandpa and Grandma who provided a place for us to live...Casey, Shaggy, Gabrielle, and all the other dear family and friends. Happy Birthday, Sonshine! "Remember to love"...your ma.

2008-05-22T18:15:00.000-07:00

I have a little taste of Burundi in Oregon. I'm teaching English to an African refugee woman, Estela. She is 34 and was born in a refugee camp in Tanzania because of Burundi's first civil war. She and her husband, Jacob, tried to return to Burundi in the early '90's, but had to flee back to Tanzania during Burundi's second civil war. I love Estela's joy and eagerness to learn. I can relate! Each member of her family is unique and lovely...Jacob, Jane, Oliva, Ginean, Ciza, Imani, Nuru, and Peter. I took my parents to meet the family today. The Kaburas were amazed that "imuzungus" (white people) knew so much Kirundi, the national language in Burundi.

Ouch!

2008-05-20T22:28:00.000-07:00

So...I went to the travel clinic today to get my shots: Meningococcal, Typhoid, Polio booster, with Hepatitis B on Friday. My Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A, and Tetanus are up to date. Whew! I'll fill my prescriptions for malaria meds and cipro (for those nasty intestinal bugs). I am so privileged to have access to these drugs.

2008-05-19T19:55:00.000-07:00

Burundi

is a country the size of Rhode Island and located in sub-Saharan Africa. It gained independence from

Belgium

in 1962 only to go through several civil wars. Currently, it is experiencing a time of peace and rebuilding its infrastructure, including its departments of health. The current health threats of most significance are HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria. Of these three, malaria is the leading cause of death for children in developing countries. An estimated 700,000 – 2.7 million persons die of malaria around the world each year with 75% of them being children. (CDC – Malaria Facts) In Burundi in 2000, there were 48,098 cases of malaria per 100,000 people. From the period of 1999-2004, the percent of children under five with an untreated bed net was 3%, those with an insecticide treated net (ITN) were 1%, and those with a malarial fever receiving medication were 31%. (UNICEF)

Back home again!

2008-05-13T22:50:00.000-07:00

I was born in Burundi in 1962, the year of independence! I'm about ready to be independent myself...to practice public health back in my birthplace after two years of graduate work. Life comes full circle. Come join me.