Our New Friends for Life

The Easton's are an amazing couple. I climbed the volcano with Greg the second weekend I was in Goma. Sandy came in October to help Greg run the base in Kalemie. Although not until the last few weeks they were here, did I get to spend quality time with them. They left Goma today to go back to their home in Colorado because the last several weeks they became very ill and could not get better here in Africa. I will miss their friendship here in Congo, but I know our relationship with them will last a lifetime. Greg and Sandy, we will see you again in....Florida, Texas, Colorado, Turks and Cacaos, or in Africa...one day soon, I just know it! May God heal your bodies and may He be with you in all of life's difficulties that come your way.

Amy and Sandy, Lake Kivu in our African Dresses
Lake Kivu and fishing boat

Faradje, DRC

The town of Faradje, DRC was attacked a few days ago by a rebel group. The NGO community called on us to fly them up. We have never been to the airstrip so Sunday, Dec 28. We flew up to check it out. The Congo Army met us there as soon as we landed. They were not very happy that we did not contact them prior to our landing, but for a picture with the Muzungu girl everything would be okay! The town was devastated every other house was burned. The people are in great need of relief. Looks like this was our first trip of many to the area.

Merry Christmas!!!

For Christmas we hosted a party for a local orphanage. It was lots of fun! They ate, drank, and danced a lot! We also had the pleasure of giving them small gifts. Thanks to all who provided us with some of the presents that we gave out. They said it was the best Christmas party ever!!! All the kids are physically disabled, but they could dance with the best. They truly are a great inspiration to how we all should live our lives. Polio, Meningitis, and other diseases attacked their bodies along with not having parents that can support them, but yet they are still able to have a good time! May the following pictures inspire you all!

Common Scenes in Goma

The FARDC soldiers always riding on the back of Boda-Bodas...this one is carrying two soldiers and their weapons

Goma is the only place in the world you will find a chic-a-doo (probably misspelled!)

The Money Changer...The Bank


Lots of smiling kids laughing at the muzungus!

Casava Flour Mill

Charcoal main source of heat and cooking

A Typical middle class house

Do the Watussi!

Always women squatting next to the road selling bananas and fish.

The way they carry a lot of things.

Old boats on Lake Kivu