https://hstrayermedia.org/media-gallery daily 0.75 2025-10-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1464209200884-6O0BURKYLGKID53HUTFF/SAMMW_19May2016_Strayer_137.jpg Media Gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471105261024-ZNIMDP5H3COHXGN1YYON/TG_4Aug2016_Strayer_049-2.jpg Media Gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471105445332-FKUZS1DBSSQW3SGEU2MG/_STR5136.jpg Media Gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1495304533828-DO9Z3PP53QFCT75CE7BI/STR_8462.jpg Media Gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1535683757115-IBDRGN0KIPLCIH1C57RF/StrayerCommission_19Aug2018_Raymond-43.jpg Media Gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539445071394-FYET6RWLRJOOEFTN9WZZ/ST2_3014.jpg Media Gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546985427816-6GNGLJMJG7HO1T2NNJNU/ST2_5500.jpg Media Gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553717448246-SH7BU91S7ZUB2I7C5N5Y/ST2_4591.jpg Media Gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1557156904135-8QVDFMFAD9LETWLLJS5O/ST2_8674.jpg Media Gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570365003833-IAY19PVGWLDCX2DIPUNX/BEN_2October2019_Strayer_154.jpg Media Gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1574090885274-X731MSJ6TETWQAZNCGX9/TGO_16November2019_Strayer_034.jpg Media Gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1582194534765-J8PIY6B6ZU20665WJ2M1/DSC_3590shadowhi.jpg Media Gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611582664007-LVGL6AC8J9055AQ1KLJS/20Jan2021_Strayer_Hannah318.jpg Media Gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623407650502-58CLGD68HNOQKRLUBU1K/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_1506.jpg Media Gallery Grace Sakpa and Selom Gbafa get ready for their wedding at Village of Light before the ceremony at Agou Church. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1634139841153-7VMTATYH33VRUFTI4WK6/20211006_HES_MiccoFlorida_0026.jpg Media Gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1644235944311-RROLCTDCN7V746V3888J/20220121_HES_HoHChapsD1_0059.jpg Media Gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675184378544-O4D7KSL6ZO0INOOX4WRT/20221007_HES_DowntownAuckland_0045.jpg Media Gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675263120145-GVA721ABME1HSAAYOHRS/20220922_HES_RiverWalk_0012.jpg Media Gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461337790292-5ESZ2C3MWLA9QKZPXQSK/DSC_4003.jpg Media Gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461775108808-L6YB89E29P1Z7LWPTFDZ/_DSC0171edit.jpg Media Gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675263495944-LNCQJ1QEL143USB275N3/2019Apr06_Second_Edits_Lausanne_003.jpg Media Gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675263668701-97M99LIFX6MT9VFBE35B/2019Apr21_Italy_622.jpg Media Gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675263867921-HXUDCLEEBOMYW3C5IMRR/TGO_27January2020_Strayer_130.jpg Media Gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1697213258341-ZPJQ04KTOGN8KW0ZFMB0/20231003_HES_GambiaSurvey_0033.jpg Media Gallery - 20231003_HES_GambiaSurvey_0033.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1700219091982-RIO6RCQI4W0FUY3GZVWH/20231017_HES_MoonShots_0018.jpg Media Gallery - 20231017_HES_MoonShots_0018.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1700219143039-F8E7TUF7EE0LW4AVOPQX/20231107_HES_GeorgeSurvey_0627-3.jpg Media Gallery - 20231107_HES_GeorgeSurvey_0627-3.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1710248035469-R4DW5I56J11KZGFCF1N1/20240305_HES_PlazaMayor_0027-2.jpg Media Gallery - 20240305_HES_PlazaMayor_0027-2.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1716910668496-XALSIQ7HF26TVHSR6EC4/20220518_HES_HBBProject_0011.jpg Media Gallery - 20220518_HES_HBBProject_0011.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1722967886317-TM4PDM4EJ77ZOSKMF0VB/20240806_ZMB_FoodDistrib_HES_0081.jpg Media Gallery - 20240806_ZMB_FoodDistrib_HES_0081.jpg Homes along the road in Mufweshia, Zambia. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1728387386710-EZYCVBJZXB76IO05H9MP/20240908_TZA_SundayShoot_HES_0041.jpg Media Gallery - 20240908_TZA_SundayShoot_HES_0041.jpg Chacha family portraits https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1742397769696-9MXJZC7PFD3W5R46JH8I/20250117_TGO_MtnBurn_HES_0006.jpg Media Gallery - 20250117_TGO_MtnBurn_HES_0006.jpg Burning the mountain in Kpalime during harmattan to prepare it for the next planting. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1743766813696-BFTWBQJGLG5AY6HVWPBV/20250311_ESP_AlicanteTrip_HES_0087.jpg Media Gallery Stormy skies over Alicante, Spain seen from the castle. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/a7b4e75d-ff50-489b-8c58-223518c4764f/20250530_ZAF_GameDrive_HES_0018.jpg Media Gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/07377dff-53af-4f80-91b3-a261af966042/20250813_SCO_EDIDay1_HES_0051_z.jpg Media Gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461295306658-OSYT5DOHGHFCY82O2OPW/SAMMW_24June2015_Strayer_070-2.jpg Media Gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461808013969-KVCQCP1KRLM1HTH9BKG8/_DSC0028.jpg Media Gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461814546255-1WFW80GH9M38WXY27F62/_DSC6713edit.jpg Media Gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461845162974-82B7KHYREFUJBEREQNV8/_DSC3902.jpg Media Gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1460990672361-3UVTICI7BLA2JOH9DCQY/DSC_3590shadowhi-2.jpg Media Gallery - The Lion's Turf Just a few meters down the way from where this was shot we saw some young male lions lying in the sun by the edge of the river. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461334283665-8YO4A8YS0PI99Q5E0XCR/DSC_3818.jpg Media Gallery - Zebra Crossing https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1460990984211-5KCHHXP3U8WE8WVDSQGC/DSC_3675-2.jpg Media Gallery - Immature Kudu This immature Kudu has his eyes on his mama as we disturbed their lunch. The mama started to scurry away but this hungry fellow was unsure if he should leave his lunch behind to follow her. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1460991023743-RMTASK8P5B181NJAO2J2/DSC_3737-2.jpg Media Gallery - Vervet Monkey During our lion chase we stopped to see if we could see or hear them. As we cautiously stepped out of the vehicle, I noticed this monkey perched on the slender branches of this bush, enjoying something to eat. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1460991059708-W5DOV9OPM1PBB45FT8MQ/DSC_3232-2.jpg Media Gallery - African Buffalo In a small herd, we captured one of the Big Five alone in the weeds. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1460729336749-KXRJAIQAITZZSX0BP92C/DSC_3643.JPG Media Gallery - What are you lookin' at? This blue wildebeest demonstrates his excellent flexibility as he turns to lick a spot on his rear haunch. Or maybe he just wanted to strike a funny pose for the photo. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1460991129260-WZRV0A13ZXFOE8S61W97/DSC_3430-2.jpg Media Gallery - Blue Wildebeest My young friend looked out the window and exclaimed, "O, look! An ostrich!". He paused a moment, looked at me confused and said, "I didn't mean that. It's a...uh...uh...WILDEBEEST!" Yes, friend, yes it is.   https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1460644413519-T4Y32CMASLSB4ETVI45H/DSC_3690.JPG Media Gallery - Bull Giraffe We spotted this large bull giraffe in the bushes looking for some green food. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1460991179216-MJ68LSRURICRIINDO8BZ/DSC_3543-2.jpg Media Gallery - Out for a Stroll We reversed a few meters to find this young trumpeter. As we drove through my fellow passengers thought they heard a car horn. I made the driver reverse so we could be sure because I was unconvinced that trumpet came from a vehicle. We found this young one and its smaller family member who is in the bushes across the road when we stopped. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1460991234930-PTGH4O0B7COSTJQATXKR/DSC_3660-2.jpg Media Gallery - Sunbathing We finally found a rhino that was distinguishable from the boulder fields we had driven through earlier that day and unobstructed by tree limbs. What a magnificent find in this clearing! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1460990933606-YZZOKC2S4K23T6EG14TB/DSC_3272-2.jpg Media Gallery - Snack Time https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1460729351245-Q9PI9801B4QPZWIHKV3B/DSC_3321edit.jpg Media Gallery - Roadside Attraction Hit a minor delay in traffic due to this slight roadblock. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461290063194-B7XED5IUNSYBEKD78E5S/SAMMW_24June2015_Strayer_070-2.jpg Media Gallery - Hands of Hope "Hope" grew up in an orphanage, never knowing even 1 of her 7 brothers and sisters. Her behavior was less than satisfactory so much of her youth was spent in a correctional facility where she was dressed like a boy, as were all the other girls, for fear that the boys in the facility would rape them if they dressed as females. Her scars and tattoos are mostly from her youth. It was normal for the girls to be “silly” and “childish” about boyfriends. They would tattoo their names on their arms and use the blood from the cuts to paint them on the walls. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461290189063-PYWJSCZQQYT4UGJOCBRH/SAMMW_25June2015_Strayer_052-2.jpg Media Gallery - Puppetmaster A street vendor of Marionettes stops to display and peddle his merchandise. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461290369003-W6WGV50PEBDTWM51SRKH/SAMMW_25June2015_Strayer_056-2.jpg Media Gallery - Geppetto and Pinocchio Our modern day Geppetto found a young Pinocchio to play with the little marionettes on his cart. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461290623815-UUYQOI07BVXIJZS4MNC9/SAMMW_25June2015_Strayer_110-2.jpg Media Gallery - Drift Away Our group took a trip to the center of Bucharest to capture some glorious night photography. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461290879197-MNL202FLLFPHWKRHD1S8/SAMMW_25June2015_Strayer_127-2.jpg Media Gallery - Night in "Little Paris" Our group took a trip to the center of Bucharest to capture some glorious night photography. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461291048070-4DAFUSSS0IXS6UISGQNC/SAMMW_25June2015_Strayer_131-2.jpg Media Gallery - Like the Stars Our group took a trip to the center of Bucharest to capture some glorious night photography. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461291231926-26N12A7GCIE53GADQ712/SAMMW_28Jun2015_Strayer_143-2.jpg Media Gallery - All Hail the King! Jenny teaches the class from the book of Esther using children from the class as illustrations for the story. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461334021735-I4KY3U6H4ZFERRKLVIOL/SAMMW_28Jun2015_Strayer_179-2.jpg Media Gallery - Coloring Time https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461334492259-8T7JNK7I2HKVLGOG8QSX/SAMMW_26Jun2015_Strayer_023-2.jpg Media Gallery - Summer Blues In the summer, there is no one to play on the school's playground. I think it's safe to say, someone is hoping summer ends soon. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461334907587-QWKGONB97D3JZQ6GDCQO/SAMMW_28Jun2015_Strayer_195-2.jpg Media Gallery - King Marius Part of the activity time was designing crowns to wear. King Marius displayed his with pride and a smile. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461335247893-IHXJ04T0QAOUEJ6K535W/SAMMW_28Jun2015_Strayer_200-2.jpg Media Gallery - Happy A mouthful of pretzel is enough to make anyone smile. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461335486455-AQG4CIRM2L11I1UPC0NR/SAMMW_28Jun2015_Strayer_227-2.jpg Media Gallery - Come In One of the church buildings in which the Roma people meet for church. From the street you can hear the sounds of joyful music and teaching. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461335686380-17SGIN4MUWF08ABBPD9T/SAMMW_28Jun2015_Strayer_276-2.jpg Media Gallery - Bloom Sometimes you just need to stop and take in the sight of the flowers. On our way back from a church service way out in the countryside of Romania we stopped by one of the many sunflower fields to take some shots of these beautiful flowers coming into bloom. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461335861458-6QJOM7JTQBQ92FWCJZ4L/SAMMW_28Jun2015_Strayer_270-2.jpg Media Gallery - Open Sometimes you just need to stop and take in the sight of the flowers. On our way back from a church service way out in the countryside of Romania we stopped by one of the many sunflower fields to take some shots of these beautiful flowers coming into bloom. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461328784450-NBS639DG7Q42HQBPDCDL/DSC_3090-2.jpg Media Gallery - Light the Way Richard's Bay Pier. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461328745609-7WAHXJWMF4B4PSG09NX2/DSC_1459-2.jpg Media Gallery - Light up the Sky On my way to one of the churches youth nights, we drove through a lightning storm. The storm actually took the power out at the church but they had reserve flood lights so they had youth night anyway, just in the dimmer light. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461337788800-E2ANVH9KFZ71GW90XQ3Y/DSC_3989.jpg Media Gallery - Shoreline The surf rolls in gently along the coast of Durban's shore by uShaka Marine World in South Africa. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461337790292-5ESZ2C3MWLA9QKZPXQSK/DSC_4003.jpg Media Gallery - Tide Pool A man stands on the rim of a tide pool at Thompson's Bay Beach in Ballito, South Africa. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461337808655-F71TYKHB91OBYELBY460/DSC_4007.jpg Media Gallery - Sun and Surf Thompson's Bay Beach Shoreline, Ballito, South Africa https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461337806389-A3GOMTAOK612ME1W4ICE/DSC_4424edit.jpg Media Gallery - Smile A small group of young children caught me taking a shot of them while I walked through Clermont Township with my friend, Dennis. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461337817371-2Y68TC3EU4F4JQSVHCVS/P7030122.jpg Media Gallery - Night Harbor The moon was shining over the harbor while a group of us went out for snacks. Such a good time of friendship and fun, complete with a nice view to snap a quick shot of. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461328754592-1MJMZ23B22N22SUL0TWS/DSC_2475-2.jpg Media Gallery - Little Birdie At Botanical Gardens in Durban. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461328774269-EWOD5KDP0KUPSN184MW5/DSC_2610edit-2.jpg Media Gallery - Relax https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461963267646-ASYI8NJ8XF2TG6TUC8PW/DSC_1326.jpg Media Gallery - pheZulu Safari Park A group of actors put on a show to demonstrate the Zulu traditions of engagement and marriage. Here the women are seen performing a dance after the "wedding ceremony". https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461963265012-D3EJHK4BIRDVD7KMWKWQ/DSC_1330.jpg Media Gallery - Bridal Dance The "bride" performs her own solo dance as a drummer plays a beat in the background for her. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461963299426-VSNGD3DSV4P4T1JEDR5W/DSC_1339.jpg Media Gallery - High Kicks The men also perform dances during the wedding celebration. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461963350244-ODXS6G8UG0XQLRLWUNVO/DSC_2252bananafilter.jpg Media Gallery - Banana Bunch Time to cut down the banana tree out back and harvest the bananas. Since banana trees only produce fruit one time, you should cut the tree down to make room for more to grow in its place. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461963355879-TU0FPFLUS4SG51ME5HB5/DSC_2569.jpg Media Gallery - Sun and Thorns https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461963394222-8DUIFBFD71598DVL3OW2/DSC_2665.jpg Media Gallery - Follow Me https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461963381233-PDAS086SK12H3KXK0YFF/DSC_3852.jpg Media Gallery - uShaka Marine World https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461963430010-SGEU96VYFJX86094S9MH/DSC_3916.jpg Media Gallery - Flipper A dolphin and its trainer put on a performance for the audience. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461963424294-YXGU1H82D8U0QKL2TF2P/DSC_3944.jpg Media Gallery - Bird of Paradise This Bird of Paradise flower is part of the stunning landscape at uShaka Marine World. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461963462539-4NVTQNFAEQMN8CX3SEG8/DSC_3955.jpg Media Gallery - Sea Turtle https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461963463119-MXO0LBO4QOAMYADR3LXV/DSC_3970.jpg Media Gallery - Salon Fish https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461963481419-2499CKX8WYMB741Q9JH4/DSC_4047.jpg Media Gallery - Crab Shell https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461963496267-DZDV79L4WUZV9KALDG2E/DSC_4252.jpg Media Gallery - Children's Praise https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461963500313-3RKJR2YKUM0HUFS1KI8O/DSC_4285.jpg Media Gallery - Strength https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461963529389-J9S4F8GKW8CJS7AKCZ6U/DSC_4381edit.jpg Media Gallery - Clermont Township https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461963532239-QI78SIPVLBO6O2M7PCO7/DSC_4402.jpg Media Gallery - RamSHACKle https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461963576736-BAOVNO1T4Z389WSM9XGE/panoramicpier1border.jpg Media Gallery - The Pier https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461812570545-CB1Z6LK54TH1HAWKB699/_DSC6713edit.jpg Media Gallery - Rice Paddies These women work in the rice fields all day harvesting the little grains for others to eat. This back breaking work is done in the rice paddy under the hot sun. If the conditions of the Indian rice fields are the same as in Thailand, they have to harvest rice with the chance of walking around or near snakes and other dangerous animals and insects. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461808435208-Z7TVEVGHU8ER92TUSHQ4/_DSC1076.jpg Media Gallery - Taste of India Lunch courtesy of one of the caretakers in one of our children's homes on the coast. This was probably one of my favorite meals by far that I ate that whole year. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461808587806-MPKLHEZFSPFHTFW03R8D/_DSC1115.jpg Media Gallery - Dedicate the Well This village was the first village I entered to dedicate a clean water well. What an awesome time it was to spend a few minutes in this village with these people, watching them receive the gift of clean water that was close to home! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461808654868-QJ11E2KVZQ7MU9LAYG7Q/_DSC1125edit.jpg Media Gallery - First Taste This man, from a village called Alluvada, rushed in after we started to prime the pump. It is possible that this drink is his first drink of clean water since he was born. How awesome to share in this moment. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461808690651-H17FKOD4RUYSEDB4NSPW/_DSC1159edit.jpg Media Gallery - Happiness Doesn't her face just say it all? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461808736639-J6SPUS28XZ5WKBL98HLX/_DSC1360.jpg Media Gallery - Give and Get Blake was asked to prime the pump in this village. In the noonday sun, that metal was scorching. After several attempts to pump, he simply couldn't hang on to the hot handle. This precious woman stepped up and offered him an edge of her scarf so that he could prime the pump without burning his hands. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461808786429-DMX33C4YUZ9WYVIT6BTK/_DSC1370.jpg Media Gallery - Helping Hand Mike offers this woman the first pot of water. It didn't seem like a difficult job but those pots of water are heavy! We never knew they were so cumbersome because those women just seem to effortlessly hoist, balance, and carry them. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461808835371-WDGXE6LQBF1H12E59JH2/_DSC1396edit.jpg Media Gallery - By the Well This young man's grandmother pushed him into my camera's direction and pointed to it. Of course I would take a photo of him. So here it is, what a stunning young man. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461808969903-B0PSTFZJ07XY39P6EJBH/_DSC1417.jpg Media Gallery - Farewell They walked us to our vehicle, repeatedly thanking us for the new well. Before we pulled away I had them group together so I could remember their faces. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461809058598-PYEYWEW5G1IKZ6X9QPJV/_DSC1542.jpg Media Gallery - Proud This man is an overseer in his village. He proudly stood by it for some photos. This water well services both a village and school. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461809087371-C2P5CCAW94X4P3SB5GGG/_DSC1550.jpg Media Gallery - Hallelujah Here is the community that man oversees. Both villagers and school children and they are overjoyed to have a new well to use whenever they please. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461808442548-72TW0HX5MECM59QGTQZV/_DSC0692.jpg Media Gallery - Squad This crew of young boys stood at the side of road as we opened a clean water well in their village. They now have access to clean water with just a short walk down the street rather than a long trek out of the village and back. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461809180574-DX8BKPNB5EDNJWV7573J/_DSC1750.jpg Media Gallery - On the Way I believe this man was heading either to or from temple. Couldn't drive past his character without getting in a shot. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461809201598-V3YU5KLHKX4F74LDJQA8/_DSC1865.jpg Media Gallery - Hello Our conference had just ended and we were preparing to move on to our next destination. They came running toward the bus as we loaded up. Some had bikes to show us, but they mostly just hugged each other and waved like this. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461809353174-V3Z2H4DKJBX0RJLWX4N6/_DSC2209.jpg Media Gallery - The Koya The Koya people live up a very large and rather steep mountain. The drive up was long, beautiful, and even somewhat terrifying. Amid the hairpin turns that we careened around in our bus while honking so oncoming traffic was aware of our approach I watched the scenery fly by. Upon arriving at the village of the Koya people, we were rewarded with a wonderful parade of drums. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461809314790-E8VZUM84EPO1BKBKD2Z2/_DSC2233.jpg Media Gallery - Drumline https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461809465400-S0JX9WYZ3TVRHW5P163Z/_DSC2293.jpg Media Gallery - Rupee Spearing After a few minutes of parading around, the men playing the music huddled around one another. One man removed a ten rupee note and placed it in the middle of the circle after waving it about for everyone to see. The men circled the note a few times and then the men stepped up to the unspoken challenge. They showed off their skills by trying to spear the note with the horns of their hats. This man happened to be the only one to succeed in the spearing of the note. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461809447645-754VO8EROZJFQ09VW08L/_DSC2270.jpg Media Gallery - Drum Warrior Many of the men wore the headdresses of hunters/warriors. These hats were made of cow horns and peacock feathers wrapped in colored fabric. I'm told the larger and fuller the feathers, the higher the status of the hunter/warrior. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461811880885-8NNE5WZBH1ZD924GIJ44/_DSC2467.jpg Media Gallery - Welcoming Attire https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461811648993-BOIA7IR7OLNJGRLQXBXA/_DSC2368.jpg Media Gallery - Paparazzi And we're not the only ones interested in taking photos of our new friends. They were quite keen on snapping some shots of us throughout the day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461811709639-DO90THWB26Z2C9PXE731/_DSC2423.jpg Media Gallery - Give a Goat (1) Global Partners in Peace and Development has a program that is designed to help men and women earn money for themselves by providing them with sheep or goats. They are able to use these sheep/goats for milk to sell. When the animals have babies, they can keep or sell the young. It becomes a bit of a business for them. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461811815558-P92RJN3ZWGCS16PRSYRV/_DSC2430.jpg Media Gallery - Give a Goat (2) Global Partners in Peace and Development has a program that is designed to help men and women earn money for themselves by providing them with sheep or goats. They are able to use these sheep/goats for milk to sell. When the animals have babies, they can keep or sell the young. It becomes a bit of a business for them. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461811962463-GY0S3MPZ6D7H7HQ3MYM8/_DSC2505.jpg Media Gallery - Feeding Program Another aid GPPD provides is a feeding program for children. Here, several of our male volunteers distribute different lunch items for the Koya children for their lunch. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461811989807-3AFMUW8Y38NN9UTK9NEM/_DSC2513.jpg Media Gallery - Dig In The Koya children enjoy lunch at the foot of a large tree in the center of their village. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461812081336-GPRGK5ZXJG73HMD2UQ4J/_DSC2608.jpg Media Gallery - The Young Koya Although the Koya people welcomed us warmly, we learned that they are a people that practices human sacrifice. The men go out into the woods at a certain time of year and "hunt" for a sacrifice. If they find a man in the woods, they kidnap him and hold him in a shed of sorts until the time of the ceremony. If they are unable to obtain someone for their sacrifice in the woods, they offer up their own children instead. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461812064330-FCD27U00A8M52DS9E4Z1/_DSC5199.jpg Media Gallery - Driving Home Transporting the crops after a long day of work. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461812153433-2KGZ9XT502AXS66FRHMD/_DSC5236.jpg Media Gallery - Hold On Safety is a bit less of a concern among the India people, especially when riding home after a long day of work. If you fit, you can ride, no matter the place of the seat. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461812207887-BV8MBSOIHB1LDFU02TON/_DSC5238.jpg Media Gallery - Seesaw https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461812220860-KC45A76PPB6J0JBBEP3L/_DSC5255.jpg Media Gallery - Come Fly With Me This bird (I am unsure its species or its name) was standing alongside the road when we spotted him. As our vehicle barreled toward him, he spooked, taking to the sky. I was reaching for my camera and in record reflex speed was able to hoist it, aim, and grab a few shots. Luckily my shooting from the hip skills are getting better these days. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461812315694-FS7I6ZGZFTQKYEKV1H63/_DSC5311.jpg Media Gallery - Peas in a Pod My little friends were having fun wearing their scarves in crazy fashions. This was their preferred method of funny. And apparently photobombing is not just an American hobby. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461812362754-H8DQM0OISB4NQKU37NZ9/_DSC5641.jpg Media Gallery - Mr. Dragon Our partner that worked with us in the south, insisted on stopping for chai nearly every hour we were on the road. At many of the stops, we just got a soda and a small snack and then loaded back into the car when our partner finished his chai. At this stop, I stayed in the car a few moments longer as I was intrigued by this man smoking near our car. Something about the way he held the smoke in his mouth and slowly blew it out through his nose reminded me of a dragon. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461812834725-GD8B8A2HJY0AQ6P08TYZ/_DSC8541.jpg Media Gallery - Through the Window As the world passed me by on one of my many train rides, I decided that without internet access and cell service, I would pass the time by reading and occasionally taking shots through the window of the scenery. However, when the train windows look like this, it's difficult to focus. . .not to mention going more than 80mph makes taking pictures tricky. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461812826838-JXYO4YPS86AQ3MJ8TALL/_DSC8572.jpg Media Gallery - Casper I couldn't think of a better name for our oddly creepy dashboard journeyman. This guy bounced and bobbed over every bumped and survived every bone crushing pothole with ease on his little spring. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461812716486-GL9U175AX63Y85Q87MII/_DSC7331.jpg Media Gallery - Passing Through Time is a sort of river of passing events, and strong is its current; no sooner is a thing brought to sight than it is swept by and another takes its place, and this too will be swept away. -Marcus Aurelius   https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461812485545-IN4AILLTGGDN73LRPVZ0/_DSC6638.jpg Media Gallery - Fire Bucket This red bucket labeled "Fire" is the petrol station's version of a fire extinguisher. Let's hope they never have a fire that they have to try and put out using these buckets...somehow I'm not sure they're going to be the most effective. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461812954361-MQPVLV1CXY39NIZLGGPK/_DSC8588.jpg Media Gallery - Idol Tower These temple tower things are everywhere. They are ziggurat like structures tiered with different gods. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461812926219-JQ1J88U7P1X01MB5I2ZK/_DSC8613.jpg Media Gallery - Your Urn https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461812685830-E6EWRM9T8F3C9YPPGKE6/_DSC7660b%26w.jpg Media Gallery - Lonely Hunter “In his face there came to be a brooding peace that is seen most often in the faces of the very sorrowful or the very wise. But still he wandered through the streets of the town, always silent and alone.” ― Carson McCullers, The Heart is a Lonely Hunter https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461812776678-A8WHAKQS63LH2R5U348O/_DSC7683color.jpg Media Gallery - Burdened His sun-dried skin and work wearied body trudged up the slight incline. The sack of goods he perched atop his head appeared to be as large as he was and twice as heavy. I just wanted to offer him a ride in our car. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461812977071-ETUTERS8QHWK8635L973/_DSC8617edit.jpg Media Gallery - Fast and Fearless “You don't have to be fast. But you'd better be fearless.” ― Christopher McDougall, Born to Run: A Hidden Tribe, Superathletes, and the Greatest Race the World Has Never Seen https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461812753376-FYLFDCEM6X0RSIT6MYBC/_DSC7789.jpg Media Gallery - Focus Sometimes the best things in life are the ones we have trouble seeing in perfect clarity. Other times, they're simply blurry, unclear moments with which we must wrestle. It is you who decides the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461813073176-R1OXHDXZMH4XXIU6JTNE/_DSC9067.jpg Media Gallery - Hay There In America we tend to boast when we learn to ride a bike with no handlebars. Personally, I think carrying a giant bundle of hay on my head without using my hands to balance it would one up that. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461813233050-3CYRPNUMLH76LPP3ZHZK/_DSC9089_edit.jpg Media Gallery - The Foot of the Cross Luke 23:52-53 52 Going to Pilate, he asked for Jesus’ body. 53 Then he took it down, wrapped it in linen cloth and placed it in a tomb cut in the rock, one in which no one had yet been laid. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461774853897-9N4MT7SJD86V7OUTB6EO/_DSC0028.jpg Media Gallery - Pedal to Peddle A street vendor transports shawls on his bicycle to sell. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461774871768-AOY4O5O2PHB39RI97FEJ/_DSC0043.jpg Media Gallery - Break Time A rickshaw driver takes a break from taking people from point A to point B in the summer heat. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461774961097-YMU70QDPEEQOM9FT0OHZ/_DSC0112.jpg Media Gallery - Red Sand Stone https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461775003253-RR4JC1ETCOA2EMBE6YCO/_DSC0121.jpg Media Gallery - Welcome to Agra Walking the entrance to the Taj Mahal in Agra, India https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461775081871-LI3C89FJSDZ5FTFBIRGI/_DSC0135.jpg Media Gallery - Almost There https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461775038765-4SKXWWXUWZ5IAGNTCTPR/_DSC0137.jpg Media Gallery - Keyhole View https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461775108808-L6YB89E29P1Z7LWPTFDZ/_DSC0171edit.jpg Media Gallery - Taj Mahal https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461775198340-WXR5AUHMZVIVY6ETS6RA/_DSC0213.jpg Media Gallery - Step Inside You either must remove your shoes or place covers over them before entering into the Taj Mahal out of respect for the tomb. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461775204643-0QKXDRXBZ6XA8ZQIFRW4/_DSC0249.jpg Media Gallery - Peeking Out https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461775332947-3G0GMDITA3E33U0ZQ2PO/_DSC2484edit.jpg Media Gallery - Lodhi Gardens Lodhi Gardens, New Delhi, India https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461775290100-RWOIZ6CT6TRQUVNTT8EP/_DSC2502.jpg Media Gallery - Locked Up https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461775457399-A1TUJH72RAI8FSFZKZK7/_DSC2504.jpg Media Gallery - Light at the End of the Tunnel https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461775465483-QKUY795L86JPM5IOZ7MN/_DSC2517.jpg Media Gallery - Texture “Words are pale shadows of forgotten names. As names have power, words have power. Words can light fires in the minds of men. Words can wring tears from the hardest hearts.” ― Patrick Rothfuss, The Name of the Wind https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461775570609-3XWKKWFD5KPKTC3341K0/_DSC2534edit.jpg Media Gallery - Adventure Descending https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461775532080-XED0SZVKSZUMXYQOKU6X/_DSC2615+%282%29.jpg Media Gallery - Bahá’í House of Worship On an average, 8,000 to 10,000 people visit the Bahá’í House of Worship each day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461775566593-SN8ML6UU3PX7VKB1E4E8/_DSC2632.jpg Media Gallery - The Lotus This Bahá’í House of Worship of the Indian subcontinent joins six other Bahá’í Houses of Worship around the world: Apia, Western Samoa; Sydney, Australia; Kampala, Uganda; Panama City, Panama; Frankfurt, Germany; Wilmette, USA. Each of these Houses of Worship, while sharing some basic design concepts, has its own distinct cultural identity embodying the principle of unity in diversity. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461775667199-OLCPJO1KK99NES2AXUOH/_DSC3881edit.jpg Media Gallery - Oh Baby https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461775740732-QR3RUDTLTLERTQOKLC32/_DSC5112bw.jpg Media Gallery - Chai A young boy walks back to his chai stand with his kettle after making deliveries of his chai to different shops in Chandni Chowk, India https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461775740528-M9MHBG085LBG39ZP8WW9/_DSC5141.jpg Media Gallery - Temple Places of worship can be found on many of the streets in India. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461775825148-RUM4IY0XK4EKSWXDPOC7/_DSC5165.jpg Media Gallery - Commute 2 men carry a sewing machine between them on their scooter in order to take it to the repair shop. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461775881316-BZ7WBVXLMU3C686ZWL8Y/_DSC5169.jpg Media Gallery - Traffic There is never a dull moment on the roads in India. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461775964518-J3URJ89OBCVA1S41PLWC/_DSC5174.jpg Media Gallery - Roadside Rest Stop A man naps down the street from a large Hindu temple in Chandni Chowk, India, just outside the Red Fort. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461776326212-YH6L5R7W7M4ZSYMGEC2U/_DSC7158edit.jpg Media Gallery - Imitation "Children are great imitators. So give them something great to imitate." — Anonymous https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461776195449-19V7J21XR7VSTM41MCZH/_DSC7132.jpg Media Gallery - Sunshine We celebrated my birthday in India with the children of the family we lived with while in India. Since the sun was shining, we decided to go outside and blow bubbles. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461777264240-451EFKB7LSE6PGO8JVCC/edit.jpg Media Gallery - Innocence The joy of children in simple things is something to be coveted. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461776285922-L3PF5T7H7VL2W3YRXT8X/_DSC7144_edited-1.jpg Media Gallery - Laughter "Every child you encounter is a divine appointment." — Wess Stafford https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461776369637-QYF383MOJTKH6B732CS0/_DSC7193_edited-1.jpg Media Gallery - Imagination "Children make your life important." — Erma Bombeck https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461776622316-4E06DCPI9BYLJQ4UPIL6/_DSC8034bw.jpg Media Gallery - Small Business This man sat atop a small table and worked his hand operated sewing machine to stitch some fabric into something to sell. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461776476736-PT2YGQ7WX2WBGPQJU6WS/_DSC7529.jpg Media Gallery - "Take us to America" They hollered out to me in Hindi and my translator said to me, "They are talking to you." I asked what they were saying and she said they just wanted me to take them to America. A bit puzzled I just looked at them, instantly the men struck a pose and I realized they wanted to be captured by the camera on my neck. My goal that day was to go to this village to take photos of product for our online store. Little did I know it would hold an opportunity to bring my new friends home with me in some way! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461776553032-CDQ64E529O4UAI8RHV43/_DSC7550.jpg Media Gallery - Age and Beauty Are women not infinitely important in any society whether or not that society chooses to recognize them? They have and raise children, they make food and keep house. . .where would we be without women? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461776532727-XKF2PI68Q0P25S7UR7C3/_DSC7554.jpg Media Gallery - See My Story I wish I knew what stories she could tell and I wish I could watch her eyes remember them as she told them to me. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461776631729-IO2U1H3Y38J5X17E9TDZ/_DSC7558.jpg Media Gallery - Family He was very proud and delighted to have a photo taken with his grandson. What an honor it was for me to be there to do so. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461776807796-3B8GSNRAWWI8CKKXZSFT/_DSC8099.jpg Media Gallery - Sole Repair "May I take your photo?" I asked and held up my camera to him as he sat on the roadside. "Are you with the paper?" he asked me in his best English. "No, I'm not." At this point I wondered if he would let me if I said no. "Yes," he said, "as long as you aren't with the paper." For the next several minutes he sat, and proudly displayed his skills at shoe repair and polishing for me. My only regret is that I didn't have enough Hindi in my "toolbox" to have more a conversation with this man. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461776783420-6XAS749J6X2B7938WUYR/_DSC8106.jpg Media Gallery - Smog-set Captured the sun as it tried to burn through the smog of Gurgaon City during its descent into slumber as my associate and I exited the movie theater. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461776915491-70UAWDE3J6Z7ZYUKL1B6/_DSC8336edit.jpg Media Gallery - Little Man Spent the afternoon playing outside in the grass with my dear little friend. He is very easily entertained and hardly ever needs a playmate to feel content so it was fun to watch him run around the yard singing songs and talking to himself while I got to sneak in a few snaps. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461776947130-YWZV2YDMH4PH8MY2P7XL/_DSC9924.jpg Media Gallery - Drive By Passing the time on our drive to Agra by taking some shots through the windows. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461777073566-C5EBQGF2J7E5C8APDJP9/_DSC9937.jpg Media Gallery - Shepherd There are many kinds of traffic in India and automobiles sometimes seem to be outnumbered by both foot and animal traffic. This shepherd followed his flock of goats and sheep down the roadside only needing to give the occasional poke to a solitary renegade. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461777187431-GCJK0DNIINGRTLRWLYP0/_DSC9990.jpg Media Gallery - Idle gods 2 colossal statues of the Hindu gods Durga and Hanuman stand erect in a fenced in area. I wasn't able to see much of it as we drove past but my heart broke thinking about those that feast on the falsehood of these man-made idols. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461841849254-M1TFQBS3WAQOCW3B77LG/_DSC3902.jpg Media Gallery - Sun-Dye This couple wanted to start a business dyeing cloth in their village. The wife worked hard to earn the materials for the business and we found a man to come in and teach them what to do. Now they're able to dye cloth in their village for anyone that might need it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461841870388-6HFDOTB04Z8O26N35IAC/_DSC3928.jpg Media Gallery - Adding the Dye The water was hot enough to add the dye to, so the instructor taught them how to mix and pour int eh color. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461841967592-5T4BF66D9YZNMF5LG8CC/_DSC3947.jpg Media Gallery - Solo With just the oversight of the instructor, our dear friend pours the dye in herself after deciding with her husband that they wanted the color to be deeper and richer. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461842022507-L0F2S3XCY0CQ4C9MGV0T/_DSC3949.jpg Media Gallery - Dye Time Having deepened the color, it's time to test out the dye and see how it comes out. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461841933444-OKIFQ24E3FRQHCZQ5AFV/_DSC3932.jpg Media Gallery - Just the Tip This couple decided to do a tri-part dye, sandwiching a color in the middle by a differing color on the ends. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461842022446-6FF05CIXADH2I36S8V77/_DSC3967.jpg Media Gallery - Finished And by the end of the hour, they had a finished product. Both were so excited to have made the product. All that was left was to let it dry and then begin dyeing cloth for their neighbors. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461842076254-R4GEZ7NI2WTLKI3XL1K9/_DSC6004.jpg Media Gallery - Beading A group of women was gathered together so that we could help them in their financial situations. One of the projects we had for them was making beaded bracelets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461842168979-I4WFLYWFZGQ4HA2M0CC6/_DSC6109.jpg Media Gallery - Wise Men The women in the south also painted on blocks of mango wood that went together to form a 5 piece nativity set. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461842150861-Q40BQHEHUO1Y9HZ91GLI/_DSC6110.jpg Media Gallery - Shepherds The women in the south also painted on blocks of mango wood that went together to form a 5 piece nativity set. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461842226698-E1C4ICJSYFNO8LGJCF9Q/_DSC7242.jpg Media Gallery - Cut and Measure One of the projects we have down in the south is a business where women make advent calendars for the Christmas season. Here they are seen measuring and cutting fabric for the back of the calendars. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461842244403-G6IJQRMYLBH5KAM5LPER/_DSC7245.jpg Media Gallery - Quality Control Part of the training we did in the south was sitting down with the women that make the advent calendars and teaching them about some of the typical mistakes we were finding in their finished product. After showing them what to fix, we spent time teaching them methods to make the products more simple and even quicker to make. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461842288870-3QT8ZCGSEOWP6XAP9BO6/_DSC7255.jpg Media Gallery - Down to Business One of the projects we have down in the south is a business where women make advent calendars for the Christmas season. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461842317312-Y0FEZ78NDG78OIY85133/_DSC7350.jpg Media Gallery - Hard at Work https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461842355678-LOEQKDE91QL87V448NE8/_DSC7361.jpg Media Gallery - Pockets One of the biggest issues we had with calendars in the past, was the size of the pockets. My associate and I found a simple solution and now those pockets get done quickly and consistently! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461842397838-3FV8GJJIKCVQ1L1U8YCO/_DSC7369.jpg Media Gallery - A Stitch in Time And they set to work sewing the pockets on. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461842428592-3HSACBZUQUOEWS0GLNIY/_DSC7472.jpg Media Gallery - Buttons Now it's time to add the buttons. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461842482093-PRRULIRXA7642ERYFBEU/_DSC7541.jpg Media Gallery - Paint We spent some time outside in the shade to escape the heat of the sewing room but also to paint the banners for the advent calendars. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461842484857-BTYHWLLE0KTDPQ9TATAO/_DSC7608.jpg Media Gallery - Border Stitching on the border. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461842565325-2Y45MMZZBOYYPOU3E1HV/_DSC7613.jpg Media Gallery - Helping Hands The size of the advent calendars can demand a helping hand if available. These women worked with one another so that their calendars all came out flawless. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1461842561509-YLFBAX7FD26MRHWKRWTF/_DSC7773.jpg Media Gallery - The Final Product We had the women show off their finished products at the end of our week together. They did such an incredible job and they were so proud of themselves this day. What a happy moment to be a part of. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1464184781338-Z6MFJ33A32TDKZWWPP9U/Strayer_Nica_Sunrise-4.jpg Media Gallery - Tech Day We started the trip with a few days in Pennsylvania learning about audio and video settings so that we were knowledgeable when we hit the ground in Nicaragua. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1464184777188-WOHZMTJBR9LX7VHAWXJ7/Strayer_Nica_Sunrise-5.jpg Media Gallery - Fuente de Vida Our first full day n country is spent in different churches, shooting the culture and setting to help us orient ourselves for what is to come in the following days. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1464184797894-WM84LNMJOMVMVK9OZ5R6/Strayer_Nica_Sunrise-7.jpg Media Gallery - Group Reading Once a month after the church service, the missionaries that serve in Fuente de Vida church train their church members for leadership using the Good Soil Evangelism and Discipleship tools. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1464184794865-CWXTSNFZLXTIBVYNL501/Strayer_Nica_Sunrise-9.jpg Media Gallery - Instruction Here are the fearless leaders that conduct the leadership class at Fuente de Vida. They are passionate and purposed and it is apparent that they love these church members. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1464184809156-7E5UJD8O1LFTS3XMT6X6/Strayer_Nica_Sunrise-12.jpg Media Gallery - Working the Angle One of our students meets with pastor Luis, the subject of her video this week. She spent time listening to Luis' story and the history of his church and culture in La Concha. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1464184810715-HIL4K9J0OA1RJ6UHQI9K/Strayer_Nica_Sunrise-15.jpg Media Gallery - Futbol is Happiness Watched these guys play for a few minutes before asking them in my broken Spanish if I could get a photo. They happily obliged. What a wonderful group of men in the making. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1464184825074-90UP5YPJVYJYTKFH20ED/Strayer_Nica_Sunrise-16.jpg Media Gallery - Best Buds We had another guy join the party. As the photo shows, he's the fireball of the group. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1464184827907-CBTDDSDN65L9EK3CX014/Strayer_Nica_Sunrise-18.jpg Media Gallery - Lunch Some Sundays after church lunch is prepared and served to the members. This helps to meet physical needs in the community since La Concha is not a thriving community and food can be scarce to come by. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1464184841008-DVJVHCEDHECUFGAAN7Q4/Strayer_Nica_Sunrise-20.jpg Media Gallery - Happy Tummies Each child brings a bowl and receives a portion of lunch. They sit and eat while the adults finish with their leadership training. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1464184836698-OU38L7V9TYEMVTMV5XES/Strayer_Nica_Sunrise-21.jpg Media Gallery - Patience She ended up being one of the last ones in line but she waited so patiently to take her turn and receive her food. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1464184854982-VF88IL5O2ENWKG4GEDPX/Strayer_Nica_Sunrise-22.jpg Media Gallery - Time to Eat The children and adults enjoy the time they are able to sit and eat with one another. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1464184857504-KYZE5SIZCH45KWFXFLW8/Strayer_Nica_Sunrise-23.jpg Media Gallery - Across the Way We made our driver stop on the roadside so we could jump out and snap a few shots of this volcano on our way back to the compound where we were staying. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1464184864922-ZWZWIRYRB8QFCGMPNXS4/Strayer_Nica_Sunrise-25.jpg Media Gallery - Apoyeque The Apoyeque volcano is on the backside of the compound where we were staying in Managua. Luckily, it did not erupt while we were there. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1464184870303-86OXHG56UVPGN7ZT4R2G/Strayer_Nica_Sunrise-26.jpg Media Gallery - Behind the Scenes Some people do not get to experience the behind the scenes action of our trips but we, as storytellers, enjoy shooting each other as often as we can so we can share the process with others. Here one of our students shoots her subject while being recorded for a promotional video, so I jumped in to capture them both. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1464184879159-D86YF5OFSIMNJ8G15ZLN/Strayer_Nica_Sunrise-28.jpg Media Gallery - Photo? The common question among the children when we pull in is for a photo. Of course, we agree and then show them what they want to see, themselves. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1464184879083-5EKPCK03UHOHPH24Y6EK/Strayer_Nica_Sunrise-29.jpg Media Gallery - Addition And once you shoot one shot, they grab new friends and ask for more. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1464184888385-0503U02S3CWU66EPI7WQ/Strayer_Nica_Sunrise-31.jpg Media Gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1464184890605-XVSPRTY5B1MX6IM1OO1E/Strayer_Nica_Sunrise-30.jpg Media Gallery - A Touch of Nerves Sometimes our subjects are nervous when we arrive for the interviews. The process of setting up so much equipment, giving them a microphone, and what seems like unnatural instructions can be a little scary but they always end up "performing" fantastically. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1464184896809-BRP4I1KEMOYG2JD71YR6/Strayer_Nica_Sunrise-33.jpg Media Gallery - Rosario Murillo https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1464184907087-GCDMUZ7O23PKJXUYCEJS/Strayer_Nica_Sunrise-34.jpg Media Gallery - Sonrisa https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1464184909695-1TWX9EXF6GS19V3QAM40/Strayer_Nica_Sunrise-38.jpg Media Gallery - Speedy https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1464184922942-NKMB3ONNXBT6GZ87HM31/Strayer_Nica_Sunrise-40.jpg Media Gallery - Supergirl My sweet friend here enjoyed running all through her yard in her cape and anytime I set up for a shot of her, this infectious, beautiful grin lit up her face. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1464184926844-97AAKNIDFOXVEGVL0TJS/Strayer_Nica_Sunrise-41.jpg Media Gallery - Family https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1464184928824-3STJBE6IPICGIT6YRJOS/Strayer_Nica_Sunrise-42.jpg Media Gallery - Peek-a-Boo An elusive face is often hard to capture well but sometimes waiting for the moment is worth it. I tried several times to get a shot of this cutie and finally he let me get at least a piece. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1464184943308-F2BW9FY7DOE5GP0K1OGZ/Strayer_Nica_Sunrise-43.jpg Media Gallery - Monkeyin' Around Enjoyed taking some shots of my new friend showing off his tree climbing skills and his arm strength. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1464184956475-PAJ3F13UAQQNRRQ0I1W2/Strayer_Nica_Sunrise-46.jpg Media Gallery - Mentoring Our instructors on the trip spend copious amounts of time pouring into our students, helping them with the storytelling process. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1464184974477-RJ6SCNBQGYUKE603RTMB/Strayer_Nica_Sunrise-48.jpg Media Gallery - Walking Musicians We stopped these guys in the market and asked them to play a little something for us. They found a bench, sat down, and squeaked out one the most out of tune songs I ever listened to, but it was still fun to hear and watch them play. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1464184981424-P5MCDCDQT0NDS68D2N7R/Strayer_Nica_Sunrise-49.jpg Media Gallery - Masaya Sunset We watched the sun set over the Masaya volcano. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1464185003300-XT9IQKOV9XNKFDR7G9O4/SAMMW_19May2016_Strayer_069.jpg Media Gallery - Volcanic Rock https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1464185011832-5XRNVKYRRM3AB5KDOXZV/Strayer_Nica_Sunrise-51.jpg Media Gallery - Masaya Mutt This dog was as shy as some people. Everytime I pointed my camera at him, he looked the other way. This was as close as I could get to a full face shot of the fur ball. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1464185019455-JZMZU6MCSSOKTPTI14BG/SAMMW_19May2016_Strayer_109.jpg Media Gallery - Masaya Volcano - 1 We went up the Masaya volcano. This volcano is active and we were able to spend 15 minutes at the top, photographing and recording, and simply taking in the magnificence of the volcano. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1464185032762-43KZ731LZ40SXTM05J6O/SAMMW_19May2016_Strayer_130.jpg Media Gallery - Masaya Volcano - 2 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1464185053007-ERI2E3DCGPCMP4Q7O2G4/SAMMW_19May2016_Strayer_137.jpg Media Gallery - Age Old Tradition This cross (or one of similar make) has adorned the peak of the Masaya volcano for more than 600 years. The Christians in the area wanted the people of other religions to stop making human sacrifices in the volcano in attempts to stave off an eruption. The Christians placed the cross to make a statement saying, "you don't need to offer sacrifices, you need to pray". https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1464185074920-1F4G8UWFEGBV00DQIEJ1/SAMMW_19May2016_Strayer_149.jpg Media Gallery - The Pit The opening of the volcano https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1464185083430-I69XBW634X4PSY2VF2QS/Strayer_Nica_Sunrise-63.jpg Media Gallery - B-ball Star We took a photo walk in Managua and we were being challenged by our instructors to do things that would challenge us. I waited for the lighting to drop even more and attempted to shoot a portrait. This gentleman was in the park behind the courts spinning this basketball. Here's my best shot of him. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1464185089679-SYWC5CAW1K96WPJP9UCY/Strayer_Nica_Sunrise-66.jpg Media Gallery - Reflections The wife of the president of Nicaragua has spent a large amount of money to have these neon, light up, metal trees imported and set up in Managua. We were told these trees are symbols of Wicca/witchcraft - a major religious practice in many parts of Nicaragua. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1464185115255-W1F4SW273RYX1DY1XEGU/Strayer_Nica_Sunrise-69.jpg Media Gallery - From Behind https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1464185121040-E66BQ2OTJ9IN9U17DE9O/Strayer_Nica_Sunrise-70.jpg Media Gallery - Inside the Tree Before we took off for our next location, I climbed inside the frame of tree and snapped a shot of the "guts". https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1464185125926-0WDF0VRLCK03EE9AEUNV/SAMMW_20May2016_Strayer_285.jpg Media Gallery - Culture The palaces of Dario and Sandino. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1464185129396-7ZXSWWE0J4QJ163TK2LM/Strayer_Nica_Sunrise-73.jpg Media Gallery - National Palace of Culture https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1464185135440-YK83PRD2QFVJ00SVVXTS/SAMMW_20May2016_Strayer_311.jpg Media Gallery - Shoot Her As photographers, we are rarely ever in photos so we make it a point to try and shoot our friends. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471094525099-ZIQ10MUK1JX56W9PXBYF/TGO_24July2016_Strayer_008.jpg Media Gallery - Church Perspective Pastor Boniface preaches on Sunday, July 24 to a smaller congregation than normal since the previous night's rain made the trek to church a bit more difficult for some. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471094700487-NSR0GQCYV7HEU3YP1REQ/TGO_24July2016_Strayer_026.jpg Media Gallery - Little Man This drooly little man was toddling around in the back of the church during Pastor's message. He was intrigued by my camera. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471094748697-BCJZ50DMH1YOJJWPZB0F/TGO_24July2016_Strayer_027.jpg Media Gallery - Welcome During the service, those of us that were visiting were recognized. Each of us was asked to provide our names and where we were from along with what we were doing in Togo. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471094800807-JCS818QCZT9NJD83XMIB/TGO_24July2016_Strayer_054.jpg Media Gallery - Pastor Boniface This service was a rare one. Pastor usually preaches in Ewe or French and has it translated into the other, but this week he had the translator translate into English. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471094794135-62ICCC76Z91596LH43UD/TGO_24July2016_Strayer_067.jpg Media Gallery - Persistence The man on the left is one of the members of the church in Agou. He used to be one of the biggest opposers of the church. Living right across the street, he mocked the members of the church for a very long time. So they invited him to come. One Sunday, he came, still mocking. Shortly after, he began to change. His heart was softened and the mockery changed to interest. He attended a blind school in the area and after completing the school came back home. He now is a faithful member of the church and is known as their biggest prayer warrior. I love hearing how God changes people's hearts and lives! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471094850340-LSELZD0IY6MW4E93UXC1/TGO_24July2016_Strayer_084.jpg Media Gallery - Teach Resources can be expensive and difficult to find or purchase. An added challenge, is that the level of education that the women of Togo have presents more challenge. Many cannot read or cannot read well, so having materials with words is not helpful. The solution Abra and her mentor, Beky, have come up with is coloring book pages. They make copies of the pages and then give children in the community opportunities to earn a little money by coloring the pages. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471094939300-AYSMZXCD6KTF2R2VW7C4/TGO_24July2016_Strayer_077.jpg Media Gallery - Village Abra is the wife of Pastor Boniface and she is an incredible teacher of the Word of God. She has a vision and passion to transmit the Gospel to the farthest corners of Togo through multiplication. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471100925922-J08J031I1SQCHDBYMH6O/TG_31July2016_Strayer_304.jpg Media Gallery - Learning The village Abra ministers in on Sunday afternoons is ripe for harvest. Many of the women in the village are fetishers, but there have been 6 women in the village so far that have made professions of faith in Jesus Christ, turning from their idol worship to accept that Jesus alone is God! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471095413641-KGFQVGH6JY0DAARTWLVW/TGO_25July2016_Strayer_022.jpg Media Gallery - Librarians A new ministry has been kicked off in Kpalimé, Togo; libraries. There are about 14 schools in the Kpalimé area and each one has just gotten a library. This ministry was kicked off by a team from Iowa. Four women found an organization that sent 24,000 books to Togo. The librarians then came and taught the new Togolese librarians how to organize and use a library. The following week, they taught the teachers how to use books more effectively in educating children. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471095388453-BM1B3F0EEQR9X7YQZ2FF/TGO_25July2016_Strayer_090.jpg Media Gallery - Educating educators Vickie works through translator and school teacher, Christy to teach the teachers how to use phonics in teaching students to learn how to read. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471095464978-Y5H3IZ2FX8IVSXG0W25B/TGO_25July2016_Strayer_096.jpg Media Gallery - Occupied The teachers brought their children along to the sessions. Since there is no day care or nursery there, children are expected to sit in and stay with the parents. This little guy's parents gave him a notebook and a pen and he was content to sit or lay down and draw for quite some time. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471095512033-9DFMZ811MDSM0WTBIA46/TGO_27July2016_Strayer_008.jpg Media Gallery - Chaplains At Hôpital Baptiste Biblique in Tsiko, Togo, there are 4 chaplains that work with all the patients. Pictured from left to right: Brother Justin - head chaplain, Madame Agathe - women's chaplain, Brother Georges , Brother Jérémie https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471095579776-B0O35GES0S27ZNDKGDPN/TGO_28July2016_Strayer_038.jpg Media Gallery - Hospital Ministry Brother Georges shares the truth of the Gospel with a couple at HBB. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471095600013-G5B2ZBLLM9KEVPS8LMN2/TGO_28July2016_Strayer_049.jpg Media Gallery - Pre-Op Brother Jérémie shares the Gospel with a man as he waits to be taken in to the operating room at HBB in Tsiko. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471095726427-V6021AH4T6AQ0GR0R1K8/TGO_29July2016_Strayer_071.jpg Media Gallery - Translation Countless hours are spent reading, translating, re-reading, re-translating, proofreading, and triple checking before the publications are sent off to print. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471095742057-R4D9332CVD7R7MI8QA2U/TGO_29July2016_Strayer_126.jpg Media Gallery - Toner Printing new literature. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471095738025-J7CYAIO2S5GDGPVB6P3B/TGO_29July2016_Strayer_110.jpg Media Gallery - Printing Press Using the printing press to produce new materials to sell in the CRC. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471095614342-0B4G9ERHBG7B988O89UE/TGO_29July2016_Strayer_047.jpg Media Gallery - Folding Local teens come to the Communications Resource Center in Tsiko, Togo to help collate books to be distributed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471095639286-QZOCKE7IGRSSWI7B2AL8/TGO_29July2016_Strayer_053.jpg Media Gallery - Collating Local teens come to the Communications Resource Center in Tsiko, Togo to help collate books to be distributed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471095694283-NP2XP3ZSYWGVX43CLH8H/TGO_29July2016_Strayer_068.jpg Media Gallery - Sunbathing I found this little guy taking a sunbath one morning on my walk to the CRC. He was just chilling on this bush. He was nice enough to stay there long enough for me to take some pictures of him. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471095667180-WWDUV2R80CVK5AM3LGZJ/TGO_29July2016_Strayer_056.jpg Media Gallery - Covering Local teens come to the Communications Resource Center in Tsiko, Togo to help collate books to be distributed. This young man is applying covers to the finished pages and binding them so they can be sent out. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471100866213-KO269ONBHNKRO1HAPV0R/TG_4Aug2016_Strayer_004.jpg Media Gallery - Trapped Our instructors are great and they have great senses of humor. Stanley Leary is an employee of Chick-Fil-A corporate and has been an instructor on all 4 of the Storytellers Abroad trips thus far. His knowledge and insight in storytelling is a major asset to this workshop and I am grateful to have had the privilege to study under his teaching 3 times now. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471101056626-L0HNZD3W40BSRDWG6FJQ/TG_4Aug2016_Strayer_029.jpg Media Gallery - Little Photographer Our little friend, Afiku, wanted to perform for us. He spent about 15 minutes climbing trees, making funny sounds, and running around so he could see the pictures and videos that resulted. We decided to let him and his friends try out their hand on the other end of the camera - Liz obliged by letting him use her camera, with the stabilization help of the monopod for added safety. Needless to say, the kids LOVED taking the pictures. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471101025916-CJI2S08YN78FYFXZHUA1/TG_4Aug2016_Strayer_033.jpg Media Gallery - Photo Shoot We decided to let the kids try out their hand on the other end of the camera - Liz obliged by letting them use her camera, with the stabilization help of the monopod for added safety. Needless to say, the kids LOVED taking the pictures.   https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471101131495-GQXQQZM9VXUBBJ0GAKP0/TG_4Aug2016_Strayer_038.jpg Media Gallery - Fearsome Threesome These 3 sisters were just standing by the roadside and I couldn't pass up the opportunity to make a photo of them. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471101255346-35YX76U9TYXAGJZX0WQV/TG_4Aug2016_Strayer_049-2.jpg Media Gallery - Beauty "Who sees the human face correctly: the photographer, the mirror, or the painter?" ~Pablo Picasso https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471101312208-LU9UMHKB98GIST6EG7AE/TG_4Aug2016_Strayer_052.jpg Media Gallery - New Life Honestly, I do not know if these women know each other or not. I only assumed they did at the time. My French is not good enough to ask them so our communication was limited to gestures. But they seemed willing enough to have a photo together and they did communicate with one another in a way that I thought implied they at least knew one another. Either way, they were fun to photograph. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471101365897-LAZTFSLJ70VTFK5ANXU9/TG_4Aug2016_Strayer_062.jpg Media Gallery - Au Revoir My little friends followed me all the way to the gate separating the hospital from the housing compound where I was staying. While -I- was taking photos on the hospital grounds, they followed me everywhere, wanting to be involved. When I communicated that I had to leave, they picked up my tripod and fell in step with me. Our final good bye was at the gate. I wished I could have spoken more French than to just say "au revoir" as I left them there. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471101392871-26IQGWK9MKAW2PURCA9X/TG_4Aug2016_Strayer_096.jpg Media Gallery - Bonjour Part of our greeting party in a village in Adéta. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471101426489-CN1K9PAOQ04KBLXXQMPQ/TG_4Aug2016_Strayer_097.jpg Media Gallery - Happiness https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471101452958-CYA5B832H8CSXQ35KMT1/TG_4Aug2016_Strayer_108.jpg Media Gallery - Warming Up This kind soul came out of her home as we were walking around taking photos and videos on the pathway at her home. She was a bit puzzled at first, like, "why are you taking pictures of that?" I stepped up and gestured at my camera and then at her. She was stoic and somber at first so I laughed. She did the same. Here is the best smile I could coax out of her. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471101505166-UA3V9QAZMB5QPPBA5L09/TG_4Aug2016_Strayer_117.jpg Media Gallery - Perspective Stanley took a photo of our new friend also, so I got low and shot up. The perspective I had in creating the photo gets me every time. Stanley looks so giant in comparison to his surroundings. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471101547833-DMZGD2YE5UGUD5OD0WQ0/TG_4Aug2016_Strayer_129.jpg Media Gallery - Outdoor Lounge https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471101572677-XVK3HBJ1KZPM4N5X5BP1/TG_4Aug2016_Strayer_134.jpg Media Gallery - Squad https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471101645296-PTMQD4ZDOLSMX97XH9FE/TG_4Aug2016_Strayer_146.jpg Media Gallery - Sharing Sharing our captures with the people we take them of is just incredible. Love seeing the faces of everyone involved. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471103659114-HJHNS49DPP09SO4G123U/TG_4Aug2016_Strayer_147-2.jpg Media Gallery - Precious https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471103655961-6LZEQZHLVYIYV7KZKKOJ/TG_4Aug2016_Strayer_148-2.jpg Media Gallery - Stoic https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471103781589-KOTL6V8B9669OKIRQ3PU/TG_4Aug2016_Strayer_161-2.jpg Media Gallery - Sugar Cane He carried around his sugar cane, occasionally taking a nibble of it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471103765047-TUEHQH5N2M5NPPLT9FKF/TG_4Aug2016_Strayer_177.jpg Media Gallery - Tripod They loved playing with our gear. The imagination they have is wild. Our tripods became many different items. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471103884978-KDHKFCORHVNH1NHBU9H8/TG_4Aug2016_Strayer_196.jpg Media Gallery - Smiling I gestured to my camera and then to her. She gave me a bit of a disbelieving laugh. I nodded and she raised her shoulders. Again, the stoic expressions. So I tried my new method of laughing, so she laughed too and I ended up with this. We tried more conversation but it did not quite work out. So we called it good and gave up on that. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471103997696-2C18Y1FKPQ5MDA8ZZE3K/TG_4Aug2016_Strayer_205.jpg Media Gallery - ReCYCLE This man literally recycles metal. He takes old motorcycle parts and melts them down. With the molten metal, he pours a form and casts a bowl. Then he sets to work, filing down the extra pieces, forming out an imperfections and cleaning it up to sell. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471104038672-SZ8T9DOVC8VNV4ORPNO9/TG_4Aug2016_Strayer_208.jpg Media Gallery - Artisan This man makes pots and pans out of old motorcycle parts. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471104183722-117TAPVTDS3PFSHQ3EL3/TG_31July2016_Strayer_056.jpg Media Gallery - Modeling This little guy was another one that loved the camera. He would pose so I could photograph and then we would look at the result. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471104263261-CN2SXBD38LJJIDCDJQJT/TG_31July2016_Strayer_245.jpg Media Gallery - Sunday School Adzovi is a disciplee of Abra. When they study the Bible together, Adzovi is diligent to go home, practice what she learns and then prepares to teach it on Sunday at church to the women. She is a passionate teacher and the women all seem to learn a great deal from her as well. Her diligence is evident in her passion to teach. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1471104381035-2HSHSBOLB24IW3435X4S/TG_31July2016_Strayer_266.jpg Media Gallery - Field Tools https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1468959092457-8S4Y1GB776WODI6AN7M7/_STR5136.jpg Media Gallery - Reflections https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1468959092382-IU7XTOBAUT6BC5M4A9DL/_STR5159-2.jpg Media Gallery - Leadership https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1468959105551-FNMKCQYEM3AEQZ1MPE6Z/_STR5171-2.jpg Media Gallery - Telling Stories https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1468959105344-0N54SXJTJF6592SGGOPM/_STR5175-2.jpg Media Gallery - Mentoring https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1468959119881-VIHL98GDULID8QB8D04X/_STR5177-2.jpg Media Gallery - Love Children https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1468959119841-CZT3LLSVGY2M0PWAIE3R/_STR5182-2.jpg Media Gallery - Proudly South African Team members - appointees/pre-fielders/active - get together and converse about life in South Africa. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1468959135626-5P0F1VWF1DUGACULJ5B7/_STR5208-2.jpg Media Gallery - Window Shadows This kept these guys occupied for about 10 minutes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1468959149097-XPP6IJANF256NYVK8H0L/_STR5209-2.jpg Media Gallery - New Friends https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1468959145432-1AAID5RT0ADCDM7YG2HT/_STR5215-2.jpg Media Gallery - Laughter is Wonderful I don't know what they were talking about, but I wish I did. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1487899900697-FFR17L128WSFGENZEEIF/STR_8367.jpg Media Gallery - Runner's Eve Dana and Betsey discussing the details for the evening as the teams prepare to race the next day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1487900695359-0YUQE6YAQCHIGC6GJX7C/STR_8373.jpg Media Gallery - Race Day The morning of the race the runners and volunteers were up bright and early, ready to start the day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1487900629000-VBUAF4YSY1L6L2MQ5O3C/STR_8388.jpg Media Gallery - Not Just For Adults One team included our youngest relay runner who - at just 12 years old - convinced her mom to run the last leg with her. She ran every last step of those 4 miles! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1487901349619-8JHZK2P51GLTTXYO7BV9/STR_8379.jpg Media Gallery - Relay Kim pins on Tyler's relay bib before the race. Teams are not just for splitting the race but also for getting those hard to reach places. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1487900732693-HCMANIGXBA9Y2XJDRHB2/STR_8406.jpg Media Gallery - The Whole Kit and Kaboodle 16 runners and about 10 volunteers were all involved during the marathon as funds were raised for clean water wells in India and relationships were made in Harrisburg. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1487901197544-3ZH1ITCYU65RFFE1FSOH/STR_8412.jpg Media Gallery - Runners Ready Our teams of runners. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1487901440893-SS0F12JZPDC4W4ITBNGB/STR_8415.jpg Media Gallery - Not All Business And these runners are not just business, there is a great deal of fun and crazy in them too! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1487901642663-5XTH65E4BH98QTLSQ8OA/STR_8419.jpg Media Gallery - Fearsome Foursome They had their ups and downs, but they kept going and finished strong! Not even an injury kept them from finishing the whole race. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1490569336107-QYF89F7965D4ZK4UK4B8/STR_8421.jpg Media Gallery - Gym Crew This team was made up of friends new and old, mostly that work out at the gym around the same time. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1490569114946-10FW4P1ZQ4BOFA76DY3M/STR_8428.jpg Media Gallery - Health Nuts? This team of co-workers spends their weekdays among college students in a travel clinic at Messiah college. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1490569741858-OGMYJWV2PGU7XNR2W2MP/STR_8429.jpg Media Gallery - Three Musketeers With their 4th runner being a no show, this team had to have a little bit of different energy to focus on finishing the race. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1490572118961-9EOOHHSS8ISUC1WUZY0B/STR_8442.jpg Media Gallery - Volunteers This group of volunteers (plus several not pictured) helped provide water for runners, music for the spectators, and conversations for both. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1490572219231-4I4TB1QM8U4YQIOIXSBI/STR_8462.jpg Media Gallery - On Your Mark Runners packed the Market Street Bridge in Harrisburg, PA for the 2017 YMCA Marathon, sponsored by Aspire. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1495301099176-ECA8J4T4HI8B6Z0PEHJD/STR_8487.jpg Media Gallery - The Foot-Off At each checkpoint in the relay, teammates “hand off” their tracking anklets to the next runner of their group. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1495301090498-AU0Y0B8YZ0849TEADTRD/STR_8488.jpg Media Gallery - Take Off Exchange Zone 1. The first exchange by the first team. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1495301464304-91NDQPIEOES8LGIF634O/STR_8496.jpg Media Gallery - Encouraging Exchange Another team meets at the exchange zone to pass off the ankle tracker. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1495301422432-Q100OW5QH17FRRK9XJBF/STR_8511.jpg Media Gallery - All In Instead of just running one leg of the race, she decided to run the entire marathon so after she gave her ankle tracker to the next leg, she continued to run the rest of the marathon. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1495301840858-TG92YNJ2CVWYI96RD3Q8/STR_8521.jpg Media Gallery - Teamwork Every exchange zone was full of encouragement as each person that finished prepared to hand off to the next person. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1495301619292-Q2SEGWRYBKAF5Q8XCFVP/STR_8554.jpg Media Gallery - Joy She finished her leg with a celebratory thumbs up just before going to the grass and laying down while her next teammate grabbed the ankle tracker and began the last leg. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1495301924326-W4GBSHG9MY5NW6OG4PC5/STR_8563.jpg Media Gallery - Waiting Each exchange zone had a check in station that scanned the ankle tracker to record the time of each leg. Each runner was greeted with encouragement of the one waiting to "receive the baton" from the other. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1495302263762-ZBD3D7ASLWAUPA1NWTBC/STR_8579.jpg Media Gallery - Celebrate the Run Near the last part of the leg, she ran through the tunnel to pick up her teammate. After running her leg of the race, she ran in and paired up with her 12 year old daughter. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1495303219843-A69Y8JWIA7THDSX4N29P/STR_8587.jpg Media Gallery - Mother and Daughter And they're off on the last leg. This little 12 year old wanted to participate in the marathon but was too young to do it alone so she convinced her mom to run with her. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1535673501980-BNJD46328ZIPWL14VB2J/StrayerCommission_19Aug2018_Raymond-7.jpg Media Gallery - Commissioning Message https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1535673520616-PDRA1BWDQDD1Z7GBGF3B/StrayerCommission_19Aug2018_Raymond-12.jpg Media Gallery - Understanding the Contested Zone https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1535673806642-RXF9CWIIKDLCCYZ5RQBW/StrayerCommission_19Aug2018_Raymond-29.jpg Media Gallery - Charging of Hannah https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1535673818935-J3LDE6AHBQFFTI6KQNWI/StrayerCommission_19Aug2018_Raymond-32.jpg Media Gallery - Charge to the Congregation https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1535674098197-XLGILEBIR9280C19I5Q3/StrayerCommission_19Aug2018_Raymond-39.jpg Media Gallery - Laughter Before Tears https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1535674090574-ZJTP9N2ZDKCVRTO9TGB5/StrayerCommission_19Aug2018_Raymond-41.jpg Media Gallery - Surrounded in Prayer https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1535674362522-7P1G6LOWT4ESC6O0I0J4/StrayerCommission_19Aug2018_Raymond-43.jpg Media Gallery - Praying https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1535681479137-COUML98JI3ARKYVMR7RG/StrayerCommission_19Aug2018_Raymond-47+%281%29.jpg Media Gallery - Love Talk https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1535681519909-2BTA61OV3POM7ZZ63J4Q/StrayerCommission_19Aug2018_Raymond-60.jpg Media Gallery - Presentation of the Certificate https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539423185145-HMOIMVRYXIXNAA8KPRMI/ST2_2093.jpg Media Gallery - Belle Epoque Statues representing the Belle Epoque stand near the Bord du Lac. Here you can read about the time period to learn more about the style and culture of those days. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539423185719-XJ0OWX7QH07WOZ68F0JG/ST2_2095.jpg Media Gallery - Artist on the Pier The artist spent his morning over Lac de Neuchâtel sketching away on his drawing pad, away from the crowds of the city. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539423218546-MJOEK6HDPH9RBXNOBDUG/ST2_2096.jpg Media Gallery - The Lake Toward Lausanne A look down the shoreline of Lac de Neuchâtel toward Lausanne. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539423222856-GHGWSP6ZRLCCLPC3Q0IO/ST2_2102.jpg Media Gallery - L'ours An artist in Neuchâtel created several lifesize statues of animals and had them placed in various spots in the city. The purpose of the statues is to remind people that the environment is important and we need to care for the animals and the earth the same way. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539423254818-YD3Y38EKFJCBRLRMCY16/ST2_2114.jpg Media Gallery - Found Objects These beer bottles were just sitting on a ledge outside the library as I was passing by. It seemed odd to me because Switzerland is very clean so to find trash outside of the receptacles is strange. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539423241984-2ILIP3NZPW1L4YBNWT83/ST2_2121.jpg Media Gallery - We'll Go Sailing Sailboats dot Lac de Neuchâtel throughout the summer but have become less common as the weather has begun to cool. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539423281976-XEY9ZH2CQ1Y74YH8UM7U/ST2_2132.jpg Media Gallery - Birdman He’s no Michael Keaton but this statue is some kind of odd representation (I assume) of humanity’s connection with animals. Or maybe it’s a weird representation of evolution? Who knows! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539423277941-ZJ4AS46TDSNNJDB8PVUG/ST2_2209.jpg Media Gallery - Sunny Day Admiring some of the flowers at Jardin Botanique. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539423315219-16SOJMDOGKLLGFMKK3A9/ST2_2230.jpg Media Gallery - Lily's Pad A small pond hosts some lily pads in the central display at the Jardin Botanique. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539423335451-TBR0MP8B9RN9LIK5BL9G/ST2_2250.jpg Media Gallery - Into the Woods Stone stairs, showing signs of their history in the woods, take you on a trail to educate walkers on different parts of nature while allowing them to observe different plants and trees along the way. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539423339893-9P4UHDGXDE388RPSFAV5/ST2_2270.jpg Media Gallery - A Big Ball of Something Some naturally found objects, fashioned into this large spider-like ball sits on a ledge along the path at the Jardin Botanique. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539423392367-11VLVP20V4HCIK2LY6OT/ST2_2277.jpg Media Gallery - We Were Here Small rings of collected objects from the woods make note of people who had trekked along this path previously. They collected items like bark, rocks, acorns, chestnuts, and pinecones along with sticks. They built the rings of small rocks around some moss and filled it with their treasures. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539423392505-NKQM4HR7W3D7GUZ3F01B/ST2_2282.jpg Media Gallery - We Were Here 2 Small rings of collected objects from the woods make note of people who had trekked along this path previously. They collected items like bark, rocks, acorns, chestnuts, and pinecones along with sticks. They built the rings of small rocks around some moss and filled it with their treasures. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539423439441-MAM1LLDJRTTZF4BX3SUK/ST2_2291.jpg Media Gallery - On the Other Side Discovered a railroad bridge that went over a spot where I was walking. The fence kept me out of the yards of the house but it gave me a neat little glimpse of the Lake again. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539423418300-YJ8516P7Y9VLBDNXJRJ4/ST2_2307.jpg Media Gallery - Fungus Found some mushrooms on a walk up a small mountain path. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539423441989-ICVWV82AZVFWADVYIKL8/ST2_2320.jpg Media Gallery - City View Here you can see the Castle that gives Neuchâtel its name, as well as the Collégiale beside it. You can glimpse other parts of the city beyond the borders of the city center. It is my favorite view of the city so far. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539423498444-N5EZ62EE2Y3JYLWHMKWH/ST2_2331.jpg Media Gallery - Enjoying the Sun I was not the only one enjoying the spectacular city view. These 2 were enjoying a little time away from home and humans. I did not interrupt them for very long. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539423483946-CK59MJJH3GVO6G4RWVOL/ST2_2334.jpg Media Gallery - Natural Windows It is always an exciting find for me to find a great frame for a photo - today I used a natural one! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539423515410-7MIBPHVWQNKARKI9WWFS/ST2_2345.jpg Media Gallery - La Lignieres We went to this village to participate in the Desalpes La Lignieres. This festival has its origins in the days when shepherds and cattle hands would go to the mountains with the herds and flocks for the summer. They would leave behind family and friends for several months. Once it was time to come home, the villagers threw a party! Now the connection between people is easier with cell phones and other technology but they still celebrate every year! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539423521686-QE4MI2WLXIGYAV4QHVIS/ST2_2347.jpg Media Gallery - Jetstreams and Clouds The sky was a phenomenal sight in La Lignieres. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539423559531-3XP73NGM9EPJV1ZG265G/ST2_2356.jpg Media Gallery - The Cortège This festival has its origins in the days when shepherds and cattle hands would go to the mountains with the herds and flocks for the summer. They would leave behind family and friends for several months. Once it was time to come home, the villagers threw a party! Now the connection between people is easier with cell phones and other technology but they still celebrate every year! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539423567316-VJZRH3Q68BSR3YVFCR66/ST2_2358.jpg Media Gallery - The Cortège 2 We went to this village to participate in the Desalpes La Lignieres. This festival has its origins in the days when shepherds and cattle hands would go to the mountains with the herds and flocks for the summer. They would leave behind family and friends for several months. Once it was time to come home, the villagers threw a party! Now the connection between people is easier with cell phones and other technology but they still celebrate every year! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539423598590-6J5JFP25QHOPSBDW9UMA/ST2_2366.jpg Media Gallery - The Cortège 3 We went to this village to participate in the Desalpes La Lignieres. This festival has its origins in the days when shepherds and cattle hands would go to the mountains with the herds and flocks for the summer. They would leave behind family and friends for several months. Once it was time to come home, the villagers threw a party! Now the connection between people is easier with cell phones and other technology but they still celebrate every year! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539423599004-2EPS8VPDWZDSO057DEPD/ST2_2383.jpg Media Gallery - The Cortège 4 We went to this village to participate in the Desalpes La Lignieres. This festival has its origins in the days when shepherds and cattle hands would go to the mountains with the herds and flocks for the summer. They would leave behind family and friends for several months. Once it was time to come home, the villagers threw a party! Now the connection between people is easier with cell phones and other technology but they still celebrate every year! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539423721004-HYIU0FYAWE5AX0PFD296/ST2_2444.jpg Media Gallery - Echo de Solomon Amicale des sonneurs de toupins neuchâtelois. Friendly top ringers of Neuchâtel. These bells are handmade. Each size and metal helps the bells make different sounds. They are very loud so they can be heard from great distances. They begin teaching bells ringers as young as the little guy with the earmuffs on. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539423747182-5RM9243907JJCWW4C9EL/ST2_2450.jpg Media Gallery - Echo de Solomon 2 Bigger bell, deeper sound. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539423630120-9ILQLRS5JAXLPTAWU0WZ/ST2_2387.jpg Media Gallery - The Cortège 5 We went to this village to participate in the Desalpes La Lignieres. This festival has its origins in the days when shepherds and cattle hands would go to the mountains with the herds and flocks for the summer. They would leave behind family and friends for several months. Once it was time to come home, the villagers threw a party! Now the connection between people is easier with cell phones and other technology but they still celebrate every year! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539423625103-VOB114N2TD1D3YWMLYNH/ST2_2389.jpg Media Gallery - The Cortège 6 We went to this village to participate in the Desalpes La Lignieres. This festival has its origins in the days when shepherds and cattle hands would go to the mountains with the herds and flocks for the summer. They would leave behind family and friends for several months. Once it was time to come home, the villagers threw a party! Now the connection between people is easier with cell phones and other technology but they still celebrate every year! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539423660084-U32N5DWFFQ3OEXXQO7PV/ST2_2401.jpg Media Gallery - Angry Goat He was mad. He did not want to pull the cart. He tried to butt the lady. The child was oblivious. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539423662602-7UG2SPBDU7B60BXG7F5O/ST2_2408.jpg Media Gallery - The Cheese Man The guy carrying the giant gruyere wheels saved the day and got the little grumpy goat to cooperate. The kid in the cart, still oblivious. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539423722983-LGIYES4O3H2TZYLF5GDX/ST2_2440.jpg Media Gallery - The Class Float I actually do not know the point of this float. I just know it really is not commonplace for men to cross dress here. But there must have been a purpose. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539423750579-14PLVRQHY1LLDW2A7MIU/ST2_2455.jpg Media Gallery - The Color Guard We went to this village to participate in the Desalpes La Lignieres. This festival has its origins in the days when shepherds and cattle hands would go to the mountains with the herds and flocks for the summer. They would leave behind family and friends for several months. Once it was time to come home, the villagers threw a party! Now the connection between people is easier with cell phones and other technology but they still celebrate every year! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539423768218-5VD4ISFV49CPI4MAA390/ST2_2472.jpg Media Gallery - Blow Your Horn This festival has its origins in the days when shepherds and cattle hands would go to the mountains with the herds and flocks for the summer. They would leave behind family and friends for several months. Once it was time to come home, the villagers threw a party! Now the connection between people is easier with cell phones and other technology but they still celebrate every year! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539423772701-ICX56QXPCQF1FHI03TBM/ST2_2474.jpg Media Gallery - Blow Your Horn This festival has its origins in the days when shepherds and cattle hands would go to the mountains with the herds and flocks for the summer. They would leave behind family and friends for several months. Once it was time to come home, the villagers threw a party! Now the connection between people is easier with cell phones and other technology but they still celebrate every year! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539423795863-S7LO5VACDHE1RJ40Z0BC/ST2_2515.jpg Media Gallery - Desalpes Badge This kite is a symbol for the Desalpes. They made small pins with this kite and you can purchase them at the gate. The proceeds go back to the village so they can keep having the party in the following years. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539423830780-7858BQ1P15P5IO501MJH/ST2_2535.jpg Media Gallery - Desalpes Music Players of the desalpes stood in the street to give us a little taste of the music of the mountains. Believe it or not, no one shouted “Riiiiiiicolaaaaa” when they finished. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539423832039-70C0J0ZEGRTBBDH03L40/ST2_2540.jpg Media Gallery - Traditions It was great to see so many young kids playing the instruments alongside the older generations. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539423860836-2UDPO1IG4XPACX7BRAR8/ST2_2580.jpg Media Gallery - This is Swiss In the city courtyard, outside the local school, the bands and other local groups get together and display the folk talents they practice. From the bell ringer to the desalpes players, they do it all for your entertainment. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539423856765-V0FWGR3ZZV3IP9MMHWIU/ST2_2592.jpg Media Gallery - Music of the Mountains In the city courtyard, outside the local school, the bands and other local groups get together and display the folk talents they practice. From the bell ringer to the desalpes players, they do it all for your entertainment. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539423915121-P9EX3T5VSMXXA9NN87ZF/ST2_2608.jpg Media Gallery - Swiss Traditions In the city courtyard, outside the local school, the bands and other local groups get together and display the folk talents they practice. From the bell ringer to the desalpes players, they do it all for your entertainment. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539423873695-0GNSQY78BLNTZNFKN9IB/ST2_2594.jpg Media Gallery - Desalpes In the city courtyard, outside the local school, the bands and other local groups get together and display the folk talents they practice. From the bell ringer to the desalpes players, they do it all for your entertainment. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539423909126-A60P0Y16BNSPRV29QN79/ST2_2616.jpg Media Gallery - Start them Young In the city courtyard, outside the local school, the bands and other local groups get together and display the folk talents they practice. From the bell ringer to the desalpes players, they do it all for your entertainment. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539423963220-T4XWN18H48EHK3M8AXZ0/ST2_2635.jpg Media Gallery - Grab Your Partner In the city courtyard, outside the local school, the bands and other local groups get together and display the folk talents they practice. From the bell ringer to the desalpes players, they do it all for your entertainment. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539423966994-4U5H8IO8YE8DEAKKSR4U/ST2_2657.jpg Media Gallery - Grab Your Partner 2 In the city courtyard, outside the local school, the bands and other local groups get together and display the folk talents they practice. From the bell ringer to the desalpes players, they do it all for your entertainment. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539424002372-XQKUGLN5CX38YM9QRZZB/ST2_2675.jpg Media Gallery - Grab Your Partner 3 In the city courtyard, outside the local school, the bands and other local groups get together and display the folk talents they practice. From the bell ringer to the desalpes players, they do it all for your entertainment. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539424033324-OTAUQU15U4T8T95HHR2E/ST2_2766.jpg Media Gallery - Angie Ott The Voice Switzerland runner up, Angie Ott. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539424061523-SONUR0PAYWQG1G2BEIOF/ST2_2794.jpg Media Gallery - Angie Ott 2 The Voice Switzerland runner up, Angie Ott. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539424118527-3OXD8ENMZP2RR39ZYA70/ST2_2830.jpg Media Gallery - Junior Tshaka Neuchâtelois reggae singer Junior Tshaka played a concert after Angie Ott. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539424147922-2KBESNYGMRTXR52CZUZ7/ST2_2833.jpg Media Gallery - Junior Tshaka 2 Neuchâtelois reggae singer Junior Tshaka played a concert after Angie Ott. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539424142134-NNC3AFCFE87KYOZCIN1V/ST2_2838.jpg Media Gallery - The Reformer "Farel was forced to flee to Switzerland because of controversy that was aroused by his writings against the use of images in Christian worship. He spent time at Zurich with Huldrych Zwingli and at Strasbourg, with Martin Bucer. He convinced Neuchâtel to join the Reform in 1530." https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539424165053-2MP7O31O8LJ6M2SG817J/ST2_2839.jpg Media Gallery - The Reformer 2 "Farel was forced to flee to Switzerland because of controversy that was aroused by his writings against the use of images in Christian worship. He spent time at Zurich with Huldrych Zwingli and at Strasbourg, with Martin Bucer. He convinced Neuchâtel to join the Reform in 1530." https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539424220089-M9K5IDCFHP21S0X7B2JO/ST2_2866.jpg Media Gallery - Steeples https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539424244840-2YKFOUXNL73HTDSG8I9Y/ST2_2888.jpg Media Gallery - The Reformer's Collégiale The former Catholic building now hosts a Protestant service every Sunday but it still retains the name “Collégiale”. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539424259871-09DSYCC7FM35YI0YH7G2/ST2_2893.jpg Media Gallery - La Collégiale The building was partially destroyed by fire. You cannot tell as much from the front as you can from the sides. The stones, naturally this tan-yellow shade, turn red under intense heat. So the side of the building has spots of red as you can sort of see under the entrance arch. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539424264468-5A1755WYUNTVDA6PKG8N/ST2_2896.jpg Media Gallery - Light in the Sky https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539424310558-2XOP2VZJMKZSVSMUT1SB/ST2_2930.jpg Media Gallery - La Collégiale 2 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539424301353-1VX6KQM3PMN6ELENJAY3/ST2_2906.jpg Media Gallery - Buildings https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539424346640-V83TIC84OXXR7EFJDV4T/ST2_2932.jpg Media Gallery - Les Loups An artist in Neuchâtel created several lifesize statues of animals and had them placed in various spots in the city. The purpose of the statues is to remind people that the environment is important and we need to care for the animals and the earth the same way. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539424343710-VU1P7N7CMKVKA1D87EG5/ST2_2945.jpg Media Gallery - Guillaume Farel "Farel was forced to flee to Switzerland because of controversy that was aroused by his writings against the use of images in Christian worship. He spent time at Zurich with Huldrych Zwingli and at Strasbourg, with Martin Bucer. He convinced Neuchâtel to join the Reform in 1530." https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539424166638-JV4TL5G24P24LF9KWOT2/ST2_2847.jpg Media Gallery - Resting in the Shade https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539424210544-BHIO0RHQJDNIIYSFE3JD/ST2_2861.jpg Media Gallery - All by Myself https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539424385681-TTYKISOEHFHL7YDN7V74/ST2_2955.jpg Media Gallery - Dancing Rainbows The sunlight filtering through John the Baptizer’s stained glass window at the collégiale made this enchanting pattern on the column inside the church. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539440858536-YAE6IRIUR2C4MN9PVSN2/ST2_2957.jpg Media Gallery - John the Baptizer Why the Baptizer? Why not Baptist? Because Baptists were not a denomination back then. John was not a Baptist, he was a baptizer. he baptized people. That is why. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539424384277-Y9ZT4JU9ZGN54YOM8II4/ST2_2962.jpg Media Gallery - Stained Glass I think stained glass is absolutely gorgeous. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539424487787-31AAP4C8QNDN3OSDVDJ1/ST2_2966-2.jpg Media Gallery - Pipe Organ This beauty was right before my very eyes the moment I stepped through the doors of the Collégiale. I’m so glad I went at the hour I did so I could shoot with the natural light. I only wish I had had a tripod to simplify the process. But it still was wonderful to capture. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539424514328-7PJTFS7XM56GC1STX143/ST2_2975-2.jpg Media Gallery - Pipe Organ 2 I decided to get a little closer and take some photos at different angles. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539424655372-ATC8PX0DDDCVT0U4YNSI/ST2_2979-2.jpg Media Gallery - Pipe Organ 3 The thing is a a mammoth so I was struggling to figure out how to capture it on camera as the pews were too close and I was simply too tall to have the right view. But, as you can see, I improvised in my usual way (and I will not tell you how) and got what I wanted. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539424625983-WRVIE35S7YOT9CC9FE0A/ST2_2977-2.jpg Media Gallery - Pipe Organ 4 The thing is a a mammoth so I was struggling to figure out how to capture it on camera as the pews were too close and I was simply too tall to have the right view. But, as you can see, I improvised in my usual way (and I will not tell you how) and got what I wanted. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539424672768-TJ8W7EA9LO68Y6KIAH2J/ST2_2983.jpg Media Gallery - Castle View https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539424673332-JABZGD3EG3B9HK63Y9UV/ST2_2989.jpg Media Gallery - Shoot Through I have been challenging myself to shoot through or around objects to compose unique and different photographs. Here is one of my first attempts. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539424715086-V6QRCUZXU72ONY34HYFM/ST2_3000.jpg Media Gallery - The Rear of the Church I wish I knew what this section looked like inside but they are doing many renovations so I cannot go through the section that leads to it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539424738637-3HT31HPB27BSTY4TO73D/ST2_3044.jpg Media Gallery - A Jacquet-Droz Piece Jacquet-Droz is a well known name here in Switzerland. The man was a genius with gears and parts. He is most well known for his creating of automatons (learn more here —> https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/jaquet-droz-automata). This clock is in a room inside the castle of Neuchâtel. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539424807856-D4VRU7XSH39U5D13GHNU/ST2_3062.jpg Media Gallery - The Sound of the Organ I went to a concert to hear the organ played. Not only did I want to behold it with my eyes but with my ears. This man, Simon Peguiron is a brilliant 38 year old organist. The way he played this instrument simply blew my mind. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539424786581-R4B4H1AA3T9PAGIYN414/ST2_3075.jpg Media Gallery - The Space Between Collégiale on the left, Chateau on the right. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539424875534-4MH9V2KPQH78FYLEFK5X/ST2_3078.jpg Media Gallery - Fête des Vendanges A festival in celebration of the Grape Harvest. Over 300,000 people fill the city of Neuchâtel for shopping, eating, riding rides, enjoying the parades, spending time with family and friends, and (on Saturday night, especially) drinking. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539424918204-ENQ456CYSJOEM93CUJY8/ST2_3080.jpg Media Gallery - Fête des Vendanges 2 A festival in celebration of the Grape Harvest. Over 300,000 people fill the city of Neuchâtel for shopping, eating, riding rides, enjoying the parades, spending time with family and friends, and (on Saturday night, especially) drinking. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539424974764-UOKT4DOFOP42CROC9TTE/ST2_3100.jpg Media Gallery - Fête des Vendanges 3 A festival in celebration of the Grape Harvest. Over 300,000 people fill the city of Neuchâtel for shopping, eating, riding rides, enjoying the parades, spending time with family and friends, and (on Saturday night, especially) drinking. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539424988041-9V2UED8QQ89YOC4ECLVG/ST2_3104.jpg Media Gallery - Street Musicians Some young boys were playing the drums a little bit while the older men that normally play them were taking a break for lunch. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539425025259-6ZTOJ68CODLE6FYOVJ47/ST2_3115.jpg Media Gallery - Street Musicians 2 There is something so beautiful about the way music stirs the soul. it makes me happy that there are so many places to see and hear street musicians play. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539425000259-AS4BSU4BW7854A6CK9DT/ST2_3107.jpg Media Gallery - Balloons, Anyone? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539425025539-7K4QKRSQNNQ7IR4RZEI0/ST2_3129.jpg Media Gallery - The Confetti Man Can https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539425058635-FXU31L7JUKTEJTBU98BN/ST2_3131.jpg Media Gallery - Time to Reload Confetti COVERS the streets during the festival. In some places it is thick while in others you find just a sprinkling, but by the next day, the street sweepers have taken it all away. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539424943122-X5A73NL7C3DVTD7XNCC9/ST2_3099.jpg Media Gallery - After Effects Some leftover trash from the night before. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539425073929-48UF9TI6J56N2ZMT4ELK/ST2_3149.jpg Media Gallery - St. Bernard Babies During the parade on Saturday the creches and daycares paraded the kids in their costumes through the streets. These little st. bernard costumes were my favorite, I think. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539425118691-54W9I7W790H20WS8GJZA/ST2_3165.jpg Media Gallery - Flying Machines https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539425086665-G9KI3TH9KNY1TP9IQQ7V/ST2_3152.jpg Media Gallery - Aikido Dojo https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539425119852-BQC073NEG6DGWP93Y12Z/ST2_3183.jpg Media Gallery - Clownin' Around https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539425148509-1FG99HAYUHNNMW6VEG84/ST2_3185.jpg Media Gallery - Rue du Confetti I told you it got thick in some places. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539424935542-441A0J6Y1VTXK7I64DLR/ST2_3093.jpg Media Gallery - The Castle at Night What more need I say? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539425206208-R04M02W5OJ0ZOJ8OOGBO/ST2_3213.jpg Media Gallery - Accueil Dodo La Rochette, a church here in Neuchâtel created a ministry to serve the people at the Fête. They have a reception area where people going to an from the party can have a free sandwich or cup of hot tea. They are welcome to stop and talk with people from the church and hear about the truth of Jesus Christ if they desire. They also set up rooms inside so that those who have had too much to drink have a safe place to sleep until they are taken home/picked up or people can come and stay if they need a place to sleep until their train departs the next morning. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539425200068-5IYSG98ZAWXYAZ3MV17L/ST2_3210.jpg Media Gallery - Accueil Dodo 2 La Rochette, a church here in Neuchâtel created a ministry to serve the people at the Fête. They have a reception area where people going to an from the party can have a free sandwich or cup of hot tea. They are welcome to stop and talk with people from the church and hear about the truth of Jesus Christ if they desire. They also set up rooms inside so that those who have had too much to drink have a safe place to sleep until they are taken home/picked up or people can come and stay if they need a place to sleep until their train departs the next morning. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539425276050-5W709B15Y36C3ZDSBXMW/ST2_3217.jpg Media Gallery - Accueil Dodo 3 La Rochette, a church here in Neuchâtel created a ministry to serve the people at the Fête. They have a reception area where people going to an from the party can have a free sandwich or cup of hot tea. They are welcome to stop and talk with people from the church and hear about the truth of Jesus Christ if they desire. They also set up rooms inside so that those who have had too much to drink have a safe place to sleep until they are taken home/picked up or people can come and stay if they need a place to sleep until their train departs the next morning. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539425300610-AUHK4MPPQO3WXES7KQ9H/ST2_3232.jpg Media Gallery - Accueil Dodo 4 Cutting bread for the sandwiches https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539425345013-W3ELPCR99UNWSRO8BBU1/ST2_3237.jpg Media Gallery - Accueil Dodo 5 Preparing to serve the hot tea. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539425527597-U3W8H508YQ3Y96QQIF38/ST2_3260.jpg Media Gallery - Accueil Dodo 6 Making the sandwiches https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539425528295-KZJS1R6AP5E7E0S2JLA4/ST2_3265.jpg Media Gallery - Accueil Dodo 7 This is not even close to the total number of platters that were made. I am going to say there were easily 3 times that number. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539425373862-S4TQKTW6ZJQPTAS2LFLD/ST2_3240.jpg Media Gallery - Accueil Dodo 8 La Rochette, a church here in Neuchâtel created a ministry to serve the people at the Fête. They have a reception area where people going to an from the party can have a free sandwich or cup of hot tea. They are welcome to stop and talk with people from the church and hear about the truth of Jesus Christ if they desire. They also set up rooms inside so that those who have had too much to drink have a safe place to sleep until they are taken home/picked up or people can come and stay if they need a place to sleep until their train departs the next morning. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539425440491-M4P071SHP3DDUMI6FMKS/ST2_3249.jpg Media Gallery - Accueil Dodo 9 La Rochette, a church here in Neuchâtel created a ministry to serve the people at the Fête. They have a reception area where people going to an from the party can have a free sandwich or cup of hot tea. They are welcome to stop and talk with people from the church and hear about the truth of Jesus Christ if they desire. They also set up rooms inside so that those who have had too much to drink have a safe place to sleep until they are taken home/picked up or people can come and stay if they need a place to sleep until their train departs the next morning. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539425449561-IO1HEFLPFSCAW3R7WMBY/ST2_3257.jpg Media Gallery - Accueil Dodo 10 The sleeping area on one side of the church (separated by gender). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539425612263-ED1N7R85GS93VA72IKYW/ST2_3312.jpg Media Gallery - Accueil Dodo 11 For quite some time, Ben was able to share the truth of Jesus Christ with two young men over their cups of Captain Morgan. No decisions of faith were made but Ben was encouraged at their receptivity and the questions they asked. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539425599232-6OYZEVKHJSHN2T0D7PJ0/ST2_3314.jpg Media Gallery - Accueil Dodo 12 For quite some time, Ben was able to share the truth of Jesus Christ with two young men over their cups of Captain Morgan. No decisions of faith were made but Ben was encouraged at their receptivity and the questions they asked. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539425637284-VO15NT1U8G7IKWSK94QU/ST2_3323.jpg Media Gallery - Taking to the Streets La Rochette, a church here in Neuchâtel created a ministry to serve the people at the Fête. They have a reception area where people going to an from the party can have a free sandwich or cup of hot tea. They are welcome to stop and talk with people from the church and hear about the truth of Jesus Christ if they desire. They also set up rooms inside so that those who have had too much to drink have a safe place to sleep until they are taken home/picked up or people can come and stay if they need a place to sleep until their train departs the next morning. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539444933429-WYS6X272B4Z8SABI0JRL/ST2_3345.jpg Media Gallery - Adventure With Me At the train station in Noiraigue before I began my Gorges de l’Areuse hike. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539444933630-JO8JBUXQ6BIO0GV4LMT1/ST2_3346.jpg Media Gallery - The Station https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539445040331-G349UNA5UK2RZUCEY89T/ST2_3351.jpg Media Gallery - House at the base of the Hill https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539445070737-DR3Y2DMRWI3D9XJCBGPZ/ST2_3369.jpg Media Gallery - 38 Degrees I began my hike. The high was to be in the 70s. I started my day in shorts and a long sleeve. All the fellow hikers on the train were in jeans and fleece pullovers. Needless to say, my first hour was an icebox. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539445106582-884CS16R92317TSBJJCU/ST2_3384.jpg Media Gallery - The Fungi Rock Mushrooms and moss. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539445129210-OBZ7OD1CG7YCHQQI8Q42/ST2_3414.jpg Media Gallery - Finally The sun burst through the fog and started to thaw my frozen body out a little. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539445175659-Q7UC4DL62NALY6P7INB5/ST2_3439.jpg Media Gallery - Cross the Bridge It is a little known fact to some that I am afraid of heights. Something about this bridge terrified me somewhat. I probably would have been fine if it had not felt like it was swaying as I stepped across it by myself. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539445243077-HU60H5BK9PECZTO2E3AT/ST2_3445.jpg Media Gallery - The Falls The first “high view” I had during the walk. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539445290602-YHB0PUQ97T3GWER339ON/ST2_3460.jpg Media Gallery - The Bridge The famous bridge that draws the hikers to this particular trail. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539445278515-T8V0DPBGSVSGQERI7Y1I/ST2_3463.jpg Media Gallery - The Bridge 2 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539445352526-D7JXA2D5AKGH1G0665UW/ST2_3494.jpg Media Gallery - Landscape One of several man made waterfalls on the trail. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539445337492-ALOEWKUSY7DYEUYIAQ91/ST2_3527.jpg Media Gallery - Cairn These piles of rocks remind me of the passages in the Bible where the Lord commands the people to build monuments so that they will be able to remember the moments of deliverance. Also they will serve as conversation starters for the following generations that they might not forget what the Lord has done for them. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539445404832-N0KOJLGS3JHQZ1DHGYOX/ST2_3543.jpg Media Gallery - House of Nature I did not go in. I regret it now. It might have been cool inside. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539445432931-FOYSVHPLGTF3NFG2V2HX/ST2_3564.jpg Media Gallery - Hotel de la Truite This was the place to stop for lunch according to my pamphlet, but I am cheap so I packed my lunch and kept walking. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539445526328-CB8TF65NZ6SP116U3UAB/ST2_3571.jpg Media Gallery - "Y" Which way to go? You decide. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539445500512-TJVHNNTW7RYS7UY28708/ST2_3604.jpg Media Gallery - Triple Falls This is where I sat for a while to eat an apple and take a rest. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539445625604-3XWXQ1647DQIIJ7EDL8O/ST2_3647.jpg Media Gallery - House Along the River This house is likely a part of the water treatment systems like most of the buildings along the river are but I am not entirely sure, to be honest. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539445597193-Z32FX0CNAZ2XZSO2NAZY/ST2_3714.jpg Media Gallery - Jean Jacques Rousseau Here is a view in the town of Boudry from the Jean Jacques Rousseau bridge. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1539445627080-ZCZCUE4A71K55MDBRUOK/ST2_3729.jpg Media Gallery - Justice A statue for justice stands just outside a church in Boudry. As usual, it tops a drinking fountain. Naturally, I took a few sips before moving on. Santè! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1543665750229-Y4VFU2MV53CNPORH3Q0G/ST2_3738.jpg Media Gallery - Chateau de Prangins I took a trip to Prangins for an exhibit that took place in this castle/museum. It was an event called World Press Photo which accepts entries from photojournalists worldwide to recap the major news events of the previous year. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1543665749101-L3TPZQTTE4PQA9QE7B7C/ST2_3752.jpg Media Gallery - The Other Side of the Fence Perspectives of highs and lows that otherwise go unseen. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1543665770565-4192UD2KEKBBS861OWZ3/ST2_3757.jpg Media Gallery - Grapes https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1543665792198-UOYJJZACTNNJ3N6M176P/ST2_3764.jpg Media Gallery - Graffiti It is not hard to find graffiti in all the cities here in Switzerland. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1543665808219-XO2ZWAMUMHLZXI4OPET5/ST2_3768.jpg Media Gallery - Steps to the Castle These stairs led me to a gorgeous view (annoyingly bothered with a crane) from the base of the Castle in Nyon. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1543665820379-F65TYUV15NF6U1OLMXPX/ST2_3770.jpg Media Gallery - Ground Marker Balades Nature en ville de Nyon https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1543665844920-IEZ5SGE69SDXDRKXQ5XR/ST2_3774.jpg Media Gallery - From the Castle The view of Lac Leman and the faint border of France. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1543665887371-3OKXGI0TE0HEUCNPUWDN/ST2_3794.jpg Media Gallery - Shedding Canopy Fall is here and winter is coming. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1543665885485-1FPNLP7OOGOS0VNBLYGO/ST2_3797.jpg Media Gallery - Roman Ruins Roman ruins near Chateau de Nyon https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1543665930077-IKDRHY8J9DIE0IFW10KM/ST2_3811.jpg Media Gallery - Jambon Cru Iberico I should have eaten some. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1543665935546-PG8RJK40QSGBNJ752V2M/ST2_3812.jpg Media Gallery - The Loner My lone photo from Neuchatel on the day I went to Prangins. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1543665958778-YKGKMMN77ACPTVOOTK4M/ST2_3825.jpg Media Gallery - Thun On our way to Junfraujoch we stopped to get a few photos on the lake edge. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1543665944165-TFB3CZB4SH4DHB177NHL/ST2_3835.jpg Media Gallery - Focus is Overrated “The only photographer you should COMPARE yourself to is the one you used to be.” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1543666029013-X1F5FDOGBLOEJCH82FTU/ST2_3852.jpg Media Gallery - Reflect on Me Windows are a great tool for new ideas. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1543666044737-NVDPGIR28QL2EVUU3ZRV/ST2_3857.jpg Media Gallery - Wengen A ghost vacation town. We came before the season kicked off so there were very few people around. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1543666059173-JL27TBFZZ57S4CAQ01JD/ST2_3862.jpg Media Gallery - Wengen p. 2 A ghost vacation town. We came before the season kicked off so there were very few people around. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1543666076263-NERN0MCC303VV9GOH8O4/ST2_3872.jpg Media Gallery - Wengen p. 3 A lookout from the clock tower https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1543666087120-8LCC6XUDIMEED52VIRLY/ST2_3879.jpg Media Gallery - Wengen p. 4 A ghost vacation town. We came before the season kicked off so there were very few people around. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1543666104096-CZJDJGNDZEAHCJ7U7E2M/ST2_3891.jpg Media Gallery - All Aboard “I see the train a comin’ She’s comin’ round the bend.” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1543666124250-2ROWXWOG6TJVVFWM4LFS/ST2_3900.jpg Media Gallery - Mountainscape Eiger and Mönch from the window of the train. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1543666146355-8NDWYPK6RH0TXF4CGLEF/ST2_3909.jpg Media Gallery - Grindelwald And this one has no crimes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1543666140073-C7L4ML2QOBZ8XPIP5XT0/ST2_3919.jpg Media Gallery - Snow Shoe https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1543666169578-LY2VRWLU84JTDIV0RNGL/ST2_3924.jpg Media Gallery - No Swimming Especially in your speedo. That would be too cold! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1543666191074-S3I97GBUVCB8DTE4FWGD/ST2_3926.jpg Media Gallery - Grindelwald p. 2 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1543666211502-2E0W380NRDTP9OD2RNMJ/ST2_3927.jpg Media Gallery - Summit of Eiger The peak of the Eiger mountain in its glory. Some day it will snow and be even more gorgeous, but I probably will not see that. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1543666218847-VUUTXU0G2HCP2JQCWWGU/ST2_3946.jpg Media Gallery - Critter Shot Get low or get lost https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1543666250941-Q3CRWHNQA36PCVZP5I6N/ST2_3950.jpg Media Gallery - Lookout Perch We had a gorgeous view from this post. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1543666257514-UJ84VXSPYUBFIF6OE38S/ST2_3953.jpg Media Gallery - Jungfraujoch Jungfraujoch and the little town at Grindelwald. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1543666288286-VNXVX0QVMKTWWYADR98V/ST2_3957.jpg Media Gallery - Original? Take pictures of what other people don’t and you’ll be an original…or will you? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1543666314330-CQU8MVAZDC9207PZMJKQ/ST2_3972.jpg Media Gallery - Travel with Photographers My friend Clayton likes his selfies to show off his adventures but sometimes it is nice to not have to hold the phone. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1543666326975-UJH0YQ6PPQ5YX0AE26OR/ST2_3984.jpg Media Gallery - Tiny Town at Grindelwald We came before the season kicked off so it still wasn’t very crowded, but I enjoy that more. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546979692160-SYEE3YY0UH7ZRCQ5A5QH/ST2_4938.jpg Media Gallery - Zermatt at 8:20AM Jocelyn came to visit for Christmas break. We arrived in Zermatt at 8:20AM on December 31. It was a beautiful, breathtaking way to spend the last day of 2018. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546979718880-J4SWPPCQ7UP8DQW0HNQZ/ST2_4942.jpg Media Gallery - Along the Creek We arrived in Zermatt at 8:20AM on December 31. It was a beautiful, breathtaking way to spend the last day of 2018. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546979788521-FGUCDK289Q4N3019SGGU/ST2_4956.jpg Media Gallery - Church Time The church in Zermatt was beautiful on both the inside and out, but we didn’t go far inside since the maintenance man was cleaning the floor when we walked in with our muddy, wet shoes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546979807058-BWRIC9ALVWWDTHYT2XN3/ST2_4957.jpg Media Gallery - Hotel and Church Tower Zermatt’s Central hub of activity, before it came to life. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546979865994-C11JV05D5OWSROIOIJ36/ST2_4965.jpg Media Gallery - Reflect We went to Zermatt but not to ski. Neither of us knows how to ski and Jocelyn has only been snowboarding a few times. Instead, we rode the gondola up to the top to go to the ice palace and to enjoy the panorama of the Swiss, French, and Italian Alps. The weathers was beautiful and perfect. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546979949820-INM3J4PA75GH27ZCHQI5/ST2_4984.jpg Media Gallery - Wolves on Ice One of the few carvings done inside the Glacier Palace. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546980017167-99V6VMTOKB24E1XJ7Y2B/ST2_4988.jpg Media Gallery - Frozen Dragon Ironic, no? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546980117821-WIU13PD4KN458N3FK3DX/ST2_4992.jpg Media Gallery - On the Rocks There’s a small lounge area in the glacier palace that was closed when we went but the lights were still on to give us an idea of the party that would come soon. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546980118851-SVP261DXKAAXATQ3T6NO/ST2_4999.jpg Media Gallery - Color My Love I have found a 3rd “lock bridge” now and decided 3 means I need to start a collection. Pittsburgh, PA - USA Paris, FR Zermatt, CH (pictured) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546980198500-2PFN1SQF1BCSYD89YFFL/ST2_5001.jpg Media Gallery - Breithorn One of the other famous mountain peaks in Zermatt. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546980195018-6YPTVYEIG76YNJVIW8FE/ST2_5005.jpg Media Gallery - 12, 740 feet A view of the Alps from 12, 740 feet. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546980283973-LMQRLJJJAI3BTPSPFI79/ST2_5008.jpg Media Gallery - 12, 740 feet - p.2 A view of the Alps from 12, 740 feet. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546980290812-C5SQPTIAGREK72Y1OA35/ST2_5014.jpg Media Gallery - 12, 740 feet - p. 3 A view of the Alps from 12, 740 feet. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546980349458-44AEBVPHBZ2XZOSLVYQ9/ST2_5036.jpg Media Gallery - Fly By Jet Stream through the Matterhorn https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546980383927-0BYC2RQNLN6E2ATRESL7/ST2_5041.jpg Media Gallery - Toblerone, anyone? The Matterhorn is renown throughout the world, but maybe most of all for its appearance on the Toblerone chocolate packaging. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546980405977-QNHYQRFVKCUB7TEJ66Q3/ST2_5051.jpg Media Gallery - Rep Your Club Jocelyn coaches for a soccer club that has paired up with Barcelona soccer academies. They have a “tradition” that when you wear your Barcelona hoodie, you take pictures in cool places with it. We decided this could qualify as cool. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546980497144-OS0QGS2L5J30WLFT1KZ8/ST2_5060.jpg Media Gallery - It's a Quiet Village It may not be quiet during ski and snowboard season but this little area of Zermatt certainly is beautiful! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546980496490-VH3UP0QLFXV8Z20JJF62/ST2_5074.jpg Media Gallery - Downward The descent from the Matterhorn in the second round of gondolas. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546980588564-76M9CROHF9E3PIZDZJ1C/ST2_5075.jpg Media Gallery - Descent - p.2 Chalets abound on the slopes. Some chalets require you to take a ski lift to get back to them while others are accessible by road or stairs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546980580869-Z9BJX8M457I9VU9H62D9/ST2_5083.jpg Media Gallery - Nearly Lunch We came back down and began searching for a place to have a warm drink before we ate our lunch and headed back to Neuchâtel to ring in the new year. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546980687156-9S0K48LGMSC3SW8HYA8U/ST2_5084.jpg Media Gallery - Postcard Shot My souvenir shot of the day came from this little bridge over the creek as the sun began its downward journey. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546980669702-U651QKK03NVH8XZ7N5Q5/ST2_5088.jpg Media Gallery - Solar Flare A shot of the sun keeping us warm on such a chilly day as we walked the streets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546980712739-37P4HAXN081JK3PDBMBM/ST2_5094.jpg Media Gallery - All Aboard We loaded up, ate our late lunch, and headed out for a bonus adventure to Bern, capital of Switzerland. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546981447273-C73LR8O14T159I65DTFW/ST2_5096.jpg Media Gallery - Bern Up the Night We stopped off for a quick stroll down the dusky streets of Bern. Outside of the Parliament building they were having an ice skating event still. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546981453899-VJY4X50BOHVW1M58HDQX/ST2_5098.jpg Media Gallery - Exposed A slightly overexposed sky but a great view of Bern behind the Parliament building. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546981587376-7K1UPUGPZVYZ1GVZU1KH/ST2_5112.jpg Media Gallery - Warm Light, Cool Night https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546981578691-C5PCFEPEJQ5OVDRTFERE/ST2_5138.jpg Media Gallery - Christmas Still In the streets of Bern, Christmas was still hanging on as the New year drew rapidly closer. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546981631113-ONA7MQ7HXZEJQOX2BKT5/ST2_5151.jpg Media Gallery - Christmas Still - p. 2 In the streets of Bern, Christmas was still hanging on as the New year drew rapidly closer. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546981859115-G07GXB1C0K54JWIJ6JI7/ST2_5193.jpg Media Gallery - Geneva Jocelyn and I ended our time together in Geneva. She flew to Florida the next day for a wedding and I flew to Peru for a training workshop. What a life! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546981912870-R6604HEL0DNSPTFF5RHP/ST2_5196.jpg Media Gallery - Altar Call A look down the aisle of St. Peter’s Cathedral. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546982004235-F4PGV0LHYLOVT990ZSGK/ST2_5200.jpg Media Gallery - Choir Mascot https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546982062641-JF1EDAMKWBOWYETHH1W0/ST2_5205.jpg Media Gallery - Mercy Seats These choral seats are flat on top because the choir would be required to stand for long periods of time during the singing. The flat tops on these folding seats gave the chorale members a place to lean back against to remove some pressure from the legs as they waited their turn to sit again. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546982136298-E8R77PSBTTGZ34L1KJSP/ST2_5217.jpg Media Gallery - Organ-ic This beautiful organ is the visual decoration on the rear wall opposite the main altar area of the cathedral. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546982294058-OG4SE4DXGQSKY8VD1QSP/ST2_5226.jpg Media Gallery - Chapel of the Maccabees This room was a breathtaking array of blues, reds and golds. Rich and nearly regal, the stained glass cast a warm glow through the room. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546982336872-TBTVQY154SA61EQLLPYB/ST2_5229.jpg Media Gallery - Chapel of the Maccabees - p. 2 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546982429015-VDMA96R29ZAFBDOSL72S/ST2_5241.jpg Media Gallery - Chapel of the Maccabees - p. 3 This room was a breathtaking array of blues, reds and golds. Rich and nearly regal, the stained glass cast a warm glow through the room. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546982429901-460MTO6I2SKI6DQ0BKGU/ST2_5248.jpg Media Gallery - Towering One of the towers of St. Peter’s Cathedral. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546982593074-UCAKFA0KG2M6ZPVPITMM/ST2_5261.jpg Media Gallery - Belfry Didn’t hear them ring but they look gorgeous. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546982549622-WTCKKZIKJIJU8P36H0SD/ST2_5269.jpg Media Gallery - From the South Lake Geneva as seen from the Southern Tower of St. Peter’s Cathedral. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546982662893-TL4PV7TGRAALY1FNDPJI/ST2_5271.jpg Media Gallery - Above the Belfry I just wanted to sit here and eat my lunch. Too bad this place hasn’t become a cafe or a restaurant yet. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546982651994-3UEUFN35CXHGULH2NVIH/ST2_5277.jpg Media Gallery - Geneva Framed https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546982859359-O6GY0QYRSQ3MVC5JW1DD/ST2_5293.jpg Media Gallery - Crossing Sides Here we crossed through the guts of the cathedral to get from one tower to the other. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546982858917-1XJWMSR29G85QM3DKFHI/ST2_5301.jpg Media Gallery - Tour du Nord It looks a little creepy - more insane asylum than religious bell tower - but it was just really cold. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546982956974-DS90WS3BEDNPQ9PKJYBU/ST2_5304.jpg Media Gallery - From the North Tower Tower views again. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546982952614-X92WUGTPKGKQ3NHE6G90/ST2_5306.jpg Media Gallery - From the North Tower - p. 2 Tower views again. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546983002467-1Z3CHNP9N8VK1HI57Q1D/ST2_5310.jpg Media Gallery - Sunlight and Stone I am in love with the architecture of Europe. And it’s a feast for photographer’s eyes with such gorgeous light. Not picture here: ripping, freezing winds causing my hands to turn a lovely shade of rosy red. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1549293652068-26JG4PHYV2EKC42EBKFZ/ST2_6108.jpg Media Gallery - Snow White Playing with my new fixed lens on a chilly, snowy day in Switzerland. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1549293650641-XVR56C7PHZ14L419HKZT/ST2_6112.jpg Media Gallery - Madame Berry Playing with my new fixed lens on a chilly, snowy day in Switzerland. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1549293715156-EK0RB0QCNUFTL29VTE38/ST2_6167.jpg Media Gallery - Dead of Winter Playing with my new fixed lens on a chilly, snowy day in Switzerland. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1549293671320-Q273HDQ3OYABTGH9LCXD/ST2_6177.jpg Media Gallery - Snow Berries Walking to school and I pass this tree everyday. I love to see it change in the seasons. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1549293729476-X1ENOHY5WWFSQTMNT89T/ST2_6179.jpg Media Gallery - Warm Snowy Morning Love the shades the sun cast over Neuchâtel Lake in the early hours of the morning as the fog rolled out. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1549293757738-K0F3ULYX78AB7IRSNCG1/ST2_6197.jpg Media Gallery - Bonjour, Monsieur In the Switzerland 2018 album, you can find his counterpart, in fall. I realized I had not taken one of him, so here he is. The dapper gentleman of the Bell Epoque. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1549293746886-UJ2SW9M3IYWSABH2PXQP/ST2_6200.jpg Media Gallery - Take Off I was not quite in the position I wanted to be in when they took off but it will do. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1549293820522-TZ1GUOZ4V6U9DLUP7YPN/ST2_6205.jpg Media Gallery - Snow Lines It does not snow as much here in Neuchâtel as it does in other places in Switzerland. As you can see here, even close by places get the snow we seem to avoid. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1549293841408-Q2P75J1L1VXTGGRQG3RV/ST2_6228.jpg Media Gallery - Cabbage Patch Basically, these cabbages are the winter flowers of the city. The cold has been keeping their smell down as they rot away but I am sure that is not why they plant them all around in winter. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1549294219356-IEV6VU26OF458LHWO30P/ST2_6317.jpg Media Gallery - Nouvel An Chinois It is the Chinese New Year celebration. This year, instead of “celebrating” Goundhog Day, I was able to observe the celebrations of the Chinese New Year. Unfortunately, I did miss the lantern lighting that evening because I was watching rugby but the day was still great. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1549294153406-NLX3OD8NNY3G497377XV/ST2_6297.jpg Media Gallery - Ring in the New Year A little “late” for a new year celebration but not if you' are Chinese and take a look at that lunar calendar! Happy New Year…and Groundhog Day! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1549293875711-4MT88SWRL5S533TJFBLU/ST2_6250.jpg Media Gallery - Promenade de Chameaux There were quite a few interesting sights and smells to take in as I walked down the decorated streets for the Chinese New Year, but perhaps the most unique was seeing these camels walking through the streets. Out of their element? I would think so. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1549293892508-2YL4EXYWBJ5U6UK7K5EH/ST2_6255.jpg Media Gallery - Promenade de Chameaux 2 There were quite a few interesting sights and smells to take in as I walked down the decorated streets for the Chinese New Year, but perhaps the most unique was seeing these camels walking through the streets. Out of their element? I would think so. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1549293925488-S09HX171Z1R1NLWZTOK0/ST2_6257.jpg Media Gallery - Smile Pretty Camels sure do have some ugly teeth! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1549293925885-T625B6YKQSPFHJ2IZ904/ST2_6259.jpg Media Gallery - Promenade de Chameaux 3 There were quite a few interesting sights and smells to take in as I walked down the decorated streets for the Chinese New Year, but perhaps the most unique was seeing these camels walking through the streets. Out of their element? I would think so. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1549293971155-PJOFNBXFE3CR5CSJZG5M/ST2_6261.jpg Media Gallery - Nibble Nibble I am not sure how this man did not react more severely to his hungry and slightly angry camel friend taking about 6 bites of his arm, but he just kept on talking like nothing was unusual or painful about it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1549293958454-BWXJJPLAEONHES2V98OG/ST2_6263.jpg Media Gallery - Promenade de Chameaux 4 There were quite a few interesting sights and smells to take in as I walked down the decorated streets for the Chinese New Year, but perhaps the most unique was seeing these camels walking through the streets. Out of their element? I would think so. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1549294025183-ECEU8LOLY72S9DYN7V7Y/ST2_6264.jpg Media Gallery - A Man and His Camel Sharing a moment in the street. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1549294015190-DNS3TCYF0CSX6A5QE1CK/ST2_6267.jpg Media Gallery - Promenade de Chameaux 5 There were quite a few interesting sights and smells to take in as I walked down the decorated streets for the Chinese New Year, but perhaps the most unique was seeing these camels walking through the streets. Out of their element? I would think so. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1549294103990-4YALZ644Y3TBOQCS6FQ3/ST2_6282.jpg Media Gallery - Promenade de Chameaux 6 There were quite a few interesting sights and smells to take in as I walked down the decorated streets for the Chinese New Year, but perhaps the most unique was seeing these camels walking through the streets. Out of their element? I would think so. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1549294062077-JHWGEI7Z9PQRL9O1TL26/ST2_6273.jpg Media Gallery - Ready for My Close-up There were quite a few interesting sights and smells to take in as I walked down the decorated streets for the Chinese New Year, but perhaps the most unique was seeing these camels walking through the streets. Out of their element? I would think so. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1549294058185-M4L2BIOUWDA5N7U3C3QM/ST2_6274.jpg Media Gallery - Ready for My Close-up 2 There were quite a few interesting sights and smells to take in as I walked down the decorated streets for the Chinese New Year, but perhaps the most unique was seeing these camels walking through the streets. Out of their element? I would think so. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1549294097497-ZERP2OWVQQ9I8H78FTR6/ST2_6291.jpg Media Gallery - Tea, Anyone? Sights, smells, sounds…Chinese New Year. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1549294140921-8FJFYWH8UMHQ850I9Y31/ST2_6303.jpg Media Gallery - Beholding the Sightless Many stand and observe, staring at the idol of a god who cannot see them. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1549294182096-YNJ8WUNCGUL6617I8HDA/ST2_6310.jpg Media Gallery - Incense for the Scentless Incense is placed before the statue of a god who cannot smell. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1549294189253-PNMAMDBGA0WL9R9MJV1D/ST2_6311.jpg Media Gallery - Incense Buddhism encompasses a variety of traditions, beliefs and spiritual practices largely based on original teachings attributed to the Buddha and resulting interpreted philosophies. Buddhism originated in ancient India as a Sramana tradition sometime between the 6th and 4th centuries BC, spreading through much of Asia. Unfortunately, this religion, founded before the birth of Jesus Christ, is as hopeless and futile now as it was then. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1549294237794-P6GWXTQ2TIO5V9P1HQEH/ST2_6313.jpg Media Gallery - Buddha Buddhism encompasses a variety of traditions, beliefs and spiritual practices largely based on original teachings attributed to the Buddha and resulting interpreted philosophies. Buddhism originated in ancient India as a Sramana tradition sometime between the 6th and 4th centuries BC, spreading through much of Asia. Unfortunately, this religion, founded before the birth of Jesus Christ, is as hopeless and futile now as it was then. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1549294246188-S88LXMSU86QPWOFOH7C7/ST2_6326.jpg Media Gallery - Food for the Tasteless Food is given to appease an idol that cannot eat. He does not breathe, therefore he has no life, yet food is given for it. The offering of things to a man. . .who is said to have entered the ultimate stage of nonexistence. . .what is it all for? Vanity. Futility. Hopelessness. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1550503342064-1YTZVANA7IQRPHF9MXJQ/ST2_6376.jpg Media Gallery - Gorges de l'Areuse (take 2) Went back and hiked half of the Gorges de l’Areuse which I hiked in full back in October (photos of that in my Switzerland 2018 album). It was both snowy and not snowy on certain parts of the hike. This time I was also glad to have a hiking partner with me! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1550503267678-H6956TWRYLXX3RN60DWN/ST2_6379.jpg Media Gallery - Stop Beard Care The full sticker really says, “Your #1 Stop Beard Care Shop”. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1550503399069-CC2DJHBK98SIKUP84REK/ST2_6389.jpg Media Gallery - Gorges de l'Areuse (take 2) 2 Went back and hiked half of the Gorges de l’Areuse which I hiked in full back in October (photos of that in my Switzerland 2018 album). It was both snowy and not snowy on certain parts of the hike. This time I was also glad to have a hiking partner with me! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1550503431750-K6VB2T8LNGPXIQCUCJ5P/ST2_6396.jpg Media Gallery - Gorges de l'Areuse (take 2) 3 Went back and hiked half of the Gorges de l’Areuse which I hiked in full back in October (photos of that in my Switzerland 2018 album). It was both snowy and not snowy on certain parts of the hike. This time I was also glad to have a hiking partner with me! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1550503484255-9Z8C7D9HMQI6BO72UBLD/ST2_6427.jpg Media Gallery - Come Out and Play Caught the sun filtering through the trees. What a sight. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1550503492527-AO1A5E3SD5CZ8ITI3LXC/ST2_6444.jpg Media Gallery - Hiking in the Woods Went back and hiked half of the Gorges de l’Areuse which I hiked in full back in October (photos of that in my Switzerland 2018 album). It was both snowy and not snowy on certain parts of the hike. This time I was also glad to have a hiking partner with me! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1550503562015-K2YS0CKMQ6U4D8CMDTUX/ST2_6449.jpg Media Gallery - Deviation A big rock had fallen down sometime prior to our arrival and busted the fence here. We were glad it fell before we arrived and not while we were standing there. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1550503553817-HN4TRK99J9CXF1LHVME0/ST2_6451.jpg Media Gallery - Stalagm-ice This little waterfall off the log is frozen solid as could be. As I stared at it, I kept wondering how long it took to form in this length and thickness. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1550503623701-NENSIQ5QYZSYTKORO01X/ST2_6453.jpg Media Gallery - Point de Vue We took a 5 minute “detour” away from our return to the car to see what the Point de Vue had to offer. It was pretty spectacular. Worth the extra couple of steps. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1550758666392-C60UULMZTWBDIX4GXWTQ/ST2_6475.jpg Media Gallery - Night Lights Headed down to the lake one evening to try and catch some scenes and work on my night time shooting skills. Happened to choose a night with a full moon, without even thinking much about it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1550758662771-027HC97RRQR2IANY1GZZ/ST2_6480.jpg Media Gallery - Hello, Moon Found a tree that framed the moon brilliantly. Trailed it a bit and when it got here, I ended up with this beauty. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1550758676941-8DK7W9W22Z8FXHCCOTNE/ST2_6481.jpg Media Gallery - Hello, Moon 2 Found a tree that framed the moon brilliantly. Trailed it a bit and when it got here, I ended up with this beauty. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1550758678778-3G7GR15J83LGBVND8AZF/ST2_6485.jpg Media Gallery - Night Lights 2 Headed down to the lake one evening to try and catch some scenes and work on my night time shooting skills. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1550758704431-D557XCP5VLRC5T42OZPL/ST2_6492.jpg Media Gallery - Night Lights 3 Headed down to the lake one evening to try and catch some scenes and work on my night time shooting skills. Happened to choose a night with a full moon, without even thinking much about it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1550758733695-PHOPN0DHQKD9MOJSRCE4/ST2_6513.jpg Media Gallery - Night Lights 4 Headed down to the lake one evening to try and catch some scenes and work on my night time shooting skills. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1550758726421-2LQO8TO97ZJJFLR9BT8D/ST2_6505.jpg Media Gallery - How Much is That. . .Birdy in the Window? One of the shops here in Switzerland has these crazy metal creatures that they sell. This window holds most of the aviary types. Don’t worry, they won’t fly away though. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552727993235-EKG2YVAHH3V31GY88ABH/ST2_6546.jpg Media Gallery - Carnival March 4th I spent the day in Lucerne for carnival. It rained on and off, but in between showers and stopping at different places to eat, I enjoyed listening to the various bands and experiencing the culture from the streets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552728048132-PZG20BE4VBDSCNN7LZFM/ST2_6565.jpg Media Gallery - Lucerne March 4th I spent the day in Lucerne for carnival. It rained on and off, but in between showers and stopping at different places to eat, I enjoyed listening to the various bands and experiencing the culture from the streets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552727978747-FATY1FNPBO09OAXB4SM5/ST2_6564.jpg Media Gallery - Lucerne 2 March 4th I spent the day in Lucerne for carnival. It rained on and off, but in between showers and stopping at different places to eat, I enjoyed listening to the various bands and experiencing the culture from the streets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552728056366-LJK7IWL5S1ZDYAA28HX9/ST2_6568.jpg Media Gallery - Go Bananas March 4th I spent the day in Lucerne for carnival. It rained on and off, but in between showers and stopping at different places to eat, I enjoyed listening to the various bands and experiencing the culture from the streets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552728117097-CIZKIVZ4QTG4ULK3ZZO4/ST2_6571.jpg Media Gallery - NASA March 4th I spent the day in Lucerne for carnival. It rained on and off, but in between showers and stopping at different places to eat, I enjoyed listening to the various bands and experiencing the culture from the streets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552728103096-4C7KW44RI7JIL896RIS4/ST2_6577.jpg Media Gallery - Street Eats March 4th I spent the day in Lucerne for carnival. It rained on and off, but in between showers and stopping at different places to eat, I enjoyed listening to the various bands and experiencing the culture from the streets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552728161385-CR6ANI9SHZVKWFPL89Z9/ST2_6583.jpg Media Gallery - Carnival 2 March 4th I spent the day in Lucerne for carnival. It rained on and off, but in between showers and stopping at different places to eat, I enjoyed listening to the various bands and experiencing the culture from the streets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552728185952-FADICYLL00NV3EDCIUW0/ST2_6587.jpg Media Gallery - Carnival 3 March 4th I spent the day in Lucerne for carnival. It rained on and off, but in between showers and stopping at different places to eat, I enjoyed listening to the various bands and experiencing the culture from the streets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552728255074-XJ6WWJJ2CC7G6JV50IXB/ST2_6592.jpg Media Gallery - Carnival 4 March 4th I spent the day in Lucerne for carnival. It rained on and off, but in between showers and stopping at different places to eat, I enjoyed listening to the various bands and experiencing the culture from the streets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552728255267-0D8L95MJ48V1UX14VFZJ/ST2_6612.jpg Media Gallery - Carnival 5 March 4th I spent the day in Lucerne for carnival. It rained on and off, but in between showers and stopping at different places to eat, I enjoyed listening to the various bands and experiencing the culture from the streets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552728325671-2ITHNGJ8PX3E5BHLMM00/ST2_6621.jpg Media Gallery - Unmasked March 4th I spent the day in Lucerne for carnival. It rained on and off, but in between showers and stopping at different places to eat, I enjoyed listening to the various bands and experiencing the culture from the streets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552728337669-6Y9RDVF8C9II5XFC0G53/ST2_6650.jpg Media Gallery - Carnival 6 March 4th I spent the day in Lucerne for carnival. It rained on and off, but in between showers and stopping at different places to eat, I enjoyed listening to the various bands and experiencing the culture from the streets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552728408367-MQKNKZPG21W2LI038KLF/ST2_6666.jpg Media Gallery - Carnival 7 March 4th I spent the day in Lucerne for carnival. It rained on and off, but in between showers and stopping at different places to eat, I enjoyed listening to the various bands and experiencing the culture from the streets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552728408985-DOPGZGCEYRVWZ35LOBJA/ST2_6668.jpg Media Gallery - Carnival 8 March 4th I spent the day in Lucerne for carnival. It rained on and off, but in between showers and stopping at different places to eat, I enjoyed listening to the various bands and experiencing the culture from the streets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552728478817-TASMVW0T6EUEW5HVRGTH/ST2_6675.jpg Media Gallery - Carnival 9 March 4th I spent the day in Lucerne for carnival. It rained on and off, but in between showers and stopping at different places to eat, I enjoyed listening to the various bands and experiencing the culture from the streets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552728498524-7A1Y0BVJMTEMQ6A2X1HC/ST2_6701.jpg Media Gallery - Carnival 10 March 4th I spent the day in Lucerne for carnival. It rained on and off, but in between showers and stopping at different places to eat, I enjoyed listening to the various bands and experiencing the culture from the streets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552728580615-QHUP2TW3S5PLWWLZWAY0/ST2_6709.jpg Media Gallery - Carnival 11 March 4th I spent the day in Lucerne for carnival. It rained on and off, but in between showers and stopping at different places to eat, I enjoyed listening to the various bands and experiencing the culture from the streets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552728573232-7AWC8G1Z991CAZHMGL9W/ST2_6721.jpg Media Gallery - Carnival 12 March 4th I spent the day in Lucerne for carnival. It rained on and off, but in between showers and stopping at different places to eat, I enjoyed listening to the various bands and experiencing the culture from the streets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552728663515-Q7MXW6JQVI3J4HZ6CYNA/ST2_6735.jpg Media Gallery - Carnival 13 March 4th I spent the day in Lucerne for carnival. It rained on and off, but in between showers and stopping at different places to eat, I enjoyed listening to the various bands and experiencing the culture from the streets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552728659457-82D3Q0W91P8KZ5TV9JKH/ST2_6767.jpg Media Gallery - Carnival 14 March 4th I spent the day in Lucerne for carnival. It rained on and off, but in between showers and stopping at different places to eat, I enjoyed listening to the various bands and experiencing the culture from the streets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552728718857-MC6FFP63CAW2CT9JKNSY/ST2_6791.jpg Media Gallery - Carnival 15 March 4th I spent the day in Lucerne for carnival. It rained on and off, but in between showers and stopping at different places to eat, I enjoyed listening to the various bands and experiencing the culture from the streets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552728776097-71WAU7YUT7THBPNP7PIJ/ST2_6795.jpg Media Gallery - Carnival 16 March 4th I spent the day in Lucerne for carnival. It rained on and off, but in between showers and stopping at different places to eat, I enjoyed listening to the various bands and experiencing the culture from the streets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552728843202-KKSW3861UYDM2JZZHYO5/ST2_6797.jpg Media Gallery - Carnival 17 March 4th I spent the day in Lucerne for carnival. It rained on and off, but in between showers and stopping at different places to eat, I enjoyed listening to the various bands and experiencing the culture from the streets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552728870472-KNITMEHPRM6UCZX5FUL4/ST2_6829.jpg Media Gallery - Lucerne 3 March 4th I spent the day in Lucerne for carnival. It rained on and off, but in between showers and stopping at different places to eat, I enjoyed listening to the various bands and experiencing the culture from the streets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552728914891-3K4KGZDQBDPGZD4GUS2K/ST2_6841.jpg Media Gallery - Lucerne 4 March 4th I spent the day in Lucerne for carnival. It rained on and off, but in between showers and stopping at different places to eat, I enjoyed listening to the various bands and experiencing the culture from the streets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552728935354-LIWYTPTTNFJDC8KNR7TY/ST2_6848.jpg Media Gallery - Lucerne 5 March 4th I spent the day in Lucerne for carnival. It rained on and off, but in between showers and stopping at different places to eat, I enjoyed listening to the various bands and experiencing the culture from the streets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552729129539-1JSUKQPBOGYTAGF7OIWR/ST2_6898.jpg Media Gallery - Carnival 16 March 4th I spent the day in Lucerne for carnival. It rained on and off, but in between showers and stopping at different places to eat, I enjoyed listening to the various bands and experiencing the culture from the streets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552730348143-SFPF74S0X06H0WCF0ZQT/ST2_6956.jpg Media Gallery - Bern On march 7th, I took a trip to Bern, the capital of Switzerland. Walking through the Old Town was beautiful. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552730350266-44LEZI5UCYYZ712GGVW4/ST2_6957.jpg Media Gallery - Bern 2 On march 7th, I took a trip to Bern, the capital of Switzerland. Walking through the Old Town was beautiful. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552730370815-XTZJOURAKNFFNSPHZB25/ST2_6965.jpg Media Gallery - Parliament Building On march 7th, I took a trip to Bern, the capital of Switzerland. Walking through the Old Town was beautiful. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552730376796-O63BU1L69WXH5GLFU3AI/ST2_6970.jpg Media Gallery - Parliament Building 2 On march 7th, I took a trip to Bern, the capital of Switzerland. Walking through the Old Town was beautiful. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552730428450-50YI3KV0GRWEQYXJ0LYO/ST2_7045.jpg Media Gallery - Björk Bern’s symbol is a bear. There is a place in the city where they house 3 brown bears. One is on a vacation temporarily but the other 2 are still in Bern. Björk was out the day I visited. After eating, she decided to take a rest and pose for a little photo op. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552730455369-G17OCZ12YPQSSW535YY1/ST2_7052.jpg Media Gallery - Bern 3 On march 7th, I took a trip to Bern, the capital of Switzerland. Walking through the Old Town was beautiful. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552730458255-ORRNCRHWRWED98PQGG8O/ST2_7054.jpg Media Gallery - Bern 4 On march 7th, I took a trip to Bern, the capital of Switzerland. Walking through the Old Town was beautiful. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552730915701-EEDMQ7GJJEGNWHESRQB7/ST2_7089.jpg Media Gallery - Monument of Brunswick Listed as a historic building, the Brunswick Monument is surprising in its architecture and history. This neo-Gothic-style mausoleum is a historical replica of the Scaligeri family tomb in Verona dating from the fourteenth century and built at the request of the Duke of Brunswick. https://www.myswitzerland.com/en-ch/brunswick-monument-geneve.html https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552730905134-ZXP093LG6HWVZTKUSUSG/ST2_7091.jpg Media Gallery - Monument of Brunswick 2 Listed as a historic building, the Brunswick Monument is surprising in its architecture and history. This neo-Gothic-style mausoleum is a historical replica of the Scaligeri family tomb in Verona dating from the fourteenth century and built at the request of the Duke of Brunswick. https://www.myswitzerland.com/en-ch/brunswick-monument-geneve.html https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552730961508-4AISXRF38OJWQ2TGWQQ9/ST2_7095.jpg Media Gallery - Monument of Brunswick 3 Listed as a historic building, the Brunswick Monument is surprising in its architecture and history. This neo-Gothic-style mausoleum is a historical replica of the Scaligeri family tomb in Verona dating from the fourteenth century and built at the request of the Duke of Brunswick. https://www.myswitzerland.com/en-ch/brunswick-monument-geneve.html https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552730938088-W74DAAYJI8TS72031KM9/ST2_7099.jpg Media Gallery - This is Suisse Geneva has a bridge lined with the flags of all the cantons. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552730962606-0O0HGY8WANLMJWZY0XPX/ST2_7103.jpg Media Gallery - Jet d'Eau Geneva’s major landmark is the jet d’eau. I didn’t get super close but it’s pretty large! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552730971484-KLCNC6IVE09ICBTC1JVT/ST2_7106.jpg Media Gallery - Le Peuple Genevois Located at the Quai du Général-Guisan (Jardin Anglais - English Garden) dating from 1854, is home to the Monument National, statues of two young women - one is the Republic of Geneva (the one with the crenelated headgear); the other is Helvetia: Switzerland. They symbolize the attachment of Geneva to the Confederation on September 12, 1814. The view overlooking the statue is of magnificent The Jet d'Eau fountain. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553013527768-W90SJYO30CL90KNHF6KH/ST2_7134.jpg Media Gallery - Mercy Seats These ornately carved sections of chorale seats were designated for the choirs in the cathedrals. Since much of the service was spent standing, each seat - which flips up and down - has a small plank on the under side so that the chorale members were able to lean against them while they stood, easing some of the pain and strain on their bodies. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553013493466-9IS5KYM1ZE42BTYO9OH5/ST2_7136.jpg Media Gallery - The Corner Decorations Each spire of the chorale sections are also ornately decorated with these finely detailed and vividly painted wooden figures. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553013535017-2GI5TZ2GLHJGASL6I92G/ST2_7140.jpg Media Gallery - La Vue de St. Pierre From the north tower of the St. Peter’s Cathedral, one can see a wide framed view of Geneva, complete with the Jet d’Eau on Lac Leman. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553013586908-2HOZ3RZ32IT2ZBX9NIDG/ST2_7170.jpg Media Gallery - The Reformers The center focus of the Reformation Wall in Geneva are statues of these 4 men: (left to right) Farel, Calvin, Beze, Knox. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553013616923-4228Y3ZAJBU9E0T1GZLZ/ST2_7180.jpg Media Gallery - Monstre du Frankenstein “Beware: Dr. Frankenstein’s creature still lurks in Geneva. In 2014 he returned to the scene of his first murder in the Plainpalais quarter, and there he still stands near the skatepark, a fearsome hulk, an expression on his face halfway between horror and grief, oblivious to the shocked stares of passersby surprised to come upon him.” Source: https://lenews.ch/2016/10/17/frankensteins-monster-spotted-in-geneva-at-his-first-murder-site/ https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553013621084-ROCVYGUGJKO94TCKXXY3/ST2_7183.jpg Media Gallery - Monstre du Frankenstein 2 “Beware: Dr. Frankenstein’s creature still lurks in Geneva. In 2014 he returned to the scene of his first murder in the Plainpalais quarter, and there he still stands near the skatepark, a fearsome hulk, an expression on his face halfway between horror and grief, oblivious to the shocked stares of passersby surprised to come upon him.” Source: https://lenews.ch/2016/10/17/frankensteins-monster-spotted-in-geneva-at-his-first-murder-site/ https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553013653680-HWD5XE1Q66W9H1N4U2W8/ST2_7185.jpg Media Gallery - Bâtiment des Forces Motrices The Bâtiment des Forces Motrices, (Power plant building), is the power house of a former hydro power plant and waterworks in Geneva…Le Bâtiment des Forces Motrices lost its principal original functions during the 1960s…[and] was classified as a historic monument in 1988…after various meetings with the responsible city department, and thanks to the generosity of a locally based benefactor, the decision was taken to adapt the main building as a 1,000 seat auditorium suitable for theatrical uses. The conversion was based on plans drawn up by the Geneva-based architect Bernard Picenni The side wing linking to the left (south) bank of the Rhône was converted into a reception area, while the main turbine hall became the main theatre. The theatre, opened in September 1997, was constructed entirely of wood. It provided 801 seats in the main area and a further 144 on the balcony/gallery. Source: Wikipedia https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552731500655-MH69DJSYXVSISOPZ204L/ST2_7199.jpg Media Gallery - Murtenhof Sun Dial Many places in Switzerland still don their old sun dial clocks. This one here is on the side of the Murtenhof Hotel. These clocks all look different and are also oriented differently based on their direction in regard to the sun. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552731507281-PJKMXAB4TTBM5BJKKD89/ST2_7206.jpg Media Gallery - Clock Tower March 12th I went to Murten/Morat with my brother and sister-in-law. It is a fortified city, complete with rampart walkways that are still accessible to the public today. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552731521034-QNJNXJPPZU3R8G6PY4UQ/ST2_7211.jpg Media Gallery - Lake Morat March 12th I went to Murten/Morat with my brother and sister-in-law. It is a fortified city, complete with rampart walkways that are still accessible to the public today. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552731536986-6CTS071KAUPZDLSZ0Y8R/ST2_7213.jpg Media Gallery - The Clock Tower 2 March 12th I went to Murten/Morat with my brother and sister-in-law. It is a fortified city, complete with rampart walkways that are still accessible to the public today. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552731539062-UWCH3JMUVUJHGTPNKQY0/ST2_7235.jpg Media Gallery - City Entrance Gate March 12th I went to Murten/Morat with my brother and sister-in-law. It is a fortified city, complete with rampart walkways that are still accessible to the public today. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552731556950-N0J4I82AT3GHKIR2BKZS/ST2_7237.jpg Media Gallery - Bienvenue An old bell we found in a restaurant/brocante called The Chesery. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552731565015-OVZVOW7NWE5HHPX2P8S5/ST2_7240.jpg Media Gallery - Spring my Bell This old spring loaded bell was a neat find at The Chesery. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552731575128-KF762DRDGPUWLZLQ736A/ST2_7242.jpg Media Gallery - Monnier Team Room &amp; Confiserie My brother was looking for places on the map, when we planned to go to Morat. He noticed this place so when we passed it, we had to get a photo. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552731591551-CLUGYFMAFNEKPH8A52HW/ST2_7245.jpg Media Gallery - Down the Street March 12th I went to Murten/Morat with my brother and sister-in-law. It is a fortified city, complete with rampart walkways that are still accessible to the public today. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552731615182-Y8835CT9TTHD3RJJVP9K/ST2_7252.jpg Media Gallery - Stairs to the Ramparts March 12th I went to Murten/Morat with my brother and sister-in-law. It is a fortified city, complete with rampart walkways that are still accessible to the public today. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552731612737-VTG9PXZRX53TF22PA2MO/ST2_7256.jpg Media Gallery - Lighting Candles This lady was lighting a few candles in the cathedral in Morat. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552731634690-I0MC3EY7XEVTITN0MF48/ST2_7268.jpg Media Gallery - From the Ramparts March 12th I went to Murten/Morat with my brother and sister-in-law. It is a fortified city, complete with rampart walkways that are still accessible to the public today. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552731635015-FZZ7DI69004BV621OBWT/ST2_7275.jpg Media Gallery - From the Ramparts 2 March 12th I went to Murten/Morat with my brother and sister-in-law. It is a fortified city, complete with rampart walkways that are still accessible to the public today. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552731661987-I3RH20DFBXZIQNL31ZY1/ST2_7284.jpg Media Gallery - Shoot Through March 12th I went to Murten/Morat with my brother and sister-in-law. It is a fortified city, complete with rampart walkways that are still accessible to the public today. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552731653782-M5WKTTQ71L7SQ2XH50B3/ST2_7287.jpg Media Gallery - Old Wooden Beams March 12th I went to Murten/Morat with my brother and sister-in-law. It is a fortified city, complete with rampart walkways that are still accessible to the public today. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552731670569-9NZ6A25IU9HOEUYEHTNU/ST2_7291.jpg Media Gallery - From the Ramparts 3 March 12th I went to Murten/Morat with my brother and sister-in-law. It is a fortified city, complete with rampart walkways that are still accessible to the public today. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552731699143-V4Y5LYQ46E4GGYPGMDQK/ST2_7305.jpg Media Gallery - From the Ramparts 4 March 12th I went to Murten/Morat with my brother and sister-in-law. It is a fortified city, complete with rampart walkways that are still accessible to the public today. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552731692663-7BMV5WL3V432C21SGBWJ/ST2_7307.jpg Media Gallery - From the Ramparts 5 March 12th I went to Murten/Morat with my brother and sister-in-law. It is a fortified city, complete with rampart walkways that are still accessible to the public today. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1552731712554-Z3GZQ6CP2FBRVH9ZGXR3/ST2_7314.jpg Media Gallery - Chimney House The tops of the chimneys around here are covered with these small house looking items. They look to us like birdhouses, quaint and cute. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1554656454998-SHSBVJ0DM7C0Y2U10Z3C/ST2_7324.jpg Media Gallery - Cherry Sun The sun through the cherry blossoms is a sight that I can’t help but smile at every morning on my way to class. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1554656450838-S8BIL4LYI6Q8LZS3WK2O/ST2_7344.jpg Media Gallery - Caution: Roadwork Ahead The men in orange repairing the road in Neuchâtel as we took our guided tour of the city. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1554656515822-HZALJ0XLRQU84NLU8H4T/ST2_7358.jpg Media Gallery - Rolling Nowhere Soon This guy might be on wheels but he’s got no destination. Something about it, for some reason makes me think of Cuba, but I don’t have the slightest idea why. Especially since I have never even been to Cuba. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1554656528236-3FO1C4R2048VWFOT4GQM/ST2_7374.jpg Media Gallery - Concrete Jungle Spring has sprung in Neuchâtel and the flowers are celebrating, even through the concrete. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1554656539491-89Q5WBVZC0MRW5AF6M66/ST2_7381.jpg Media Gallery - Le Pont sur le Train To get from my house to platform one, I like to take this little bridge. The graffiti makes me happy and the colors make life seem brighter, even in the overcast hours of morning. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1554656580340-3FORKM8S8L6CNM0H8JBX/ST2_7390.jpg Media Gallery - Wall Tags In my opinion, graffiti is one of the most underappreciated forms of art. I find it incredibly beautiful and creative and wish it were encouraged to be used in many more positive, recreational ways. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1554656601464-6IJ4928RXAI9MUQXDO06/ST2_7411.jpg Media Gallery - Magnolia Blossom Intending to spend my afternoon taking in photo exhibits at the Musée d’Elysée, I began with a tour of the garden. The magnolia tree in the field below, in full bloom, captivated my attention. After several photos of it, I spotted the mountains by the lake. I kept saying, “after this I’ll go inside”. You know what? I never made it inside. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1554656637827-8SWB6ILTF3UIF8H5FVCP/ST2_7419.jpg Media Gallery - Magnolia Blossom 2 Intending to spend my afternoon taking in photo exhibits at the Musée d’Elysée, I began with a tour of the garden. The magnolia tree in the field below, in full bloom, captivated my attention. After several photos of it, I spotted the mountains by the lake. I kept saying, “after this I’ll go inside”. You know what? I never made it inside. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1554656655151-UICWO8GWDKFR93D007TX/ST2_7422.jpg Media Gallery - Magnolia Blossom 3 Intending to spend my afternoon taking in photo exhibits at the Musée d’Elysée, I began with a tour of the garden. The magnolia tree in the field below, in full bloom, captivated my attention. After several photos of it, I spotted the mountains by the lake. I kept saying, “after this I’ll go inside”. You know what? I never made it inside. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1554656682634-EZIDC2JOWFYYPVQJ1DO3/ST2_7429.jpg Media Gallery - Behind the Magnolia Tree Intending to spend my afternoon taking in photo exhibits at the Musée d’Elysée, I began with a tour of the garden. The magnolia tree in the field below, in full bloom, captivated my attention. After several photos of it, I spotted the mountains by the lake. I kept saying, “after this I’ll go inside”. You know what? I never made it inside. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1554656608620-PRJHVU8GPCT8X89ZQPM3/ST2_7402.jpg Media Gallery - From the Garden The sun was trying to push its way through the clouds all morning. Luckily for me the clouds resisted until I arrived. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1554656684891-MZRQ8CGXCVNGNE836WCX/ST2_7439.jpg Media Gallery - Raise the Flag Lausanne is the Olympic capital. Just across the street from the incredible museum dedicated to the games is this awesome statue. There is not inscription plate so I have no idea who created it, but I love it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1554656734547-BMRFLKF0W7IJB9B2LCTP/ST2_7473.jpg Media Gallery - Les Pirates d'Ouchy Sailing on the Lake Leman was this gorgeous specimen of a pirate ship which you are able to sail on if you desire. She sailed a decent way down the lake before returning. Just before she docked, someone on board fired a fairly loud cannon into the sky. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1554659343672-9WG0XUPHXFDFMWQMSKRE/ST2_7561.jpg Media Gallery - Fighting for Scraps The seagulls and the ducks were having it out for pieces of bread that a father and his son were tossing in the water for them as snacks. I never saw a seagull succeed. Those ducks were pretty ferocious. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1554656725029-TX1LRR8J9XTHBM27H45V/ST2_7567.jpg Media Gallery - Accès Interdit This little dock is closed to the public, but I figured I could still give it a photo opp moment. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1554656828446-H0I2BH6QUFRHIZCV4ERZ/ST2_7599.jpg Media Gallery - Don't Weep for Me What a stunning tree against the blue sky! I love the colors of spring! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1554656768186-S4VN1UYCYD9U3NF6B8IP/ST2_7601.jpg Media Gallery - Underneath the Willow She sat peacefully under the weeping branches of the willow which blew gently in the breeze. I have no idea what she was thinking or who she may have been waiting for but I am glad she decided to sit a moment and observe the mountains and the lake in front of her. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1554656796917-N43QL33Z4XUYX2C6JOTZ/ST2_7602.jpg Media Gallery - Follow Me The tides are better when you’re in them. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1554656859792-4Z9UCLOWX5107CSVK8U9/ST2_7612.jpg Media Gallery - Cruiser Lausanne’s passenger cruiser docked and waiting its next fare to Thonon or Evian, France. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1554656876169-DKT97WT745P0MC432UHX/ST2_7629.jpg Media Gallery - Row, Row, Row of Boats The docks in Lausanne were PACKED with sailboats. I imagine it will seem much less full in the weeks to come as the weather continues to warm and become more agreeable to sailing weather. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1554990199022-5FCI3XWLBRE7YXOUWHIG/ST2_7639.jpg Media Gallery - Even if You're Alone Even if you’re alone, shine bright. Show your petals shamelessly and be beautiful. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1554990192924-CC2YG7VSVN9LVJ5Z99KB/ST2_7669.jpg Media Gallery - The Perfect Sphere Rarely in my life have I ever beheld a beautiful little sphere of white cotton fluff like this. Usually the wind has damaged it or someone has stepped on it, or some child has decapitated the little fluffball and blown it all around. But I found this one, perfectly round, perfectly white, perfectly alone. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1554990213258-9IJ9SRY94GNDAQYP8QG7/ST2_7677.jpg Media Gallery - Capture Me I am trying to learn to see, use, and capture light in more effective and emotive ways. I have a long way to go, but I am learning. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1554990216408-KOUTGCUGGCIHTN7ISFI9/ST2_7682.jpg Media Gallery - We Look Different I cannot determine what type of plant this is, but the seed pod seems so out of place. The contrast of its reddish black spiked shell against the light gray brown wood and green buds is harsh but intriguing. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546912999924-CA6DFHR0LMR6V396PTUT/ST2_5333.jpg Media Gallery - Archbishop The home of the archbishop in Lima. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546913038751-6A04VJHCVCYNMXLYT29P/ST2_5340.jpg Media Gallery - Archbishop 2 The home of the archbishop in Lima. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546913027349-MDZ3R130Z3RLBMRFPG3T/ST2_5336.jpg Media Gallery - Presidential Palace The home of the president of Peru. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546913069682-8Q2NZ0CV5UL8Y82OKKW6/ST2_5348.jpg Media Gallery - Set Up Getting our technology set up and ready to shoot around the streets in Lima. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546913222159-KW09OHGNZ3KXJ3BO3A6N/ST2_5361.jpg Media Gallery - Stole Your Shot https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546913214624-SMCCYKEYX9U0ESHW10CP/ST2_5370.jpg Media Gallery - Changing the Guard We watched part of the changing of the guard - as much as we could through the bars and crowds, and from the distance of the sidewalk. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546913134977-GEAL9OB55BYK0NSA0ZAW/ST2_5376.jpg Media Gallery - Franciscan Monastery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546913180069-D6RUU0WE39SS5UKWXTBU/ST2_5381.jpg Media Gallery - Franciscan Monastery 2 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546913211649-XPA3PURB1MMXA8NS9J9H/ST2_5388.jpg Media Gallery - Light Pigeon Not quite a stool pigeon, but close enough, I suppose. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546913265578-77JMI6VZ4O8NDVDKRLYU/ST2_5391.jpg Media Gallery - Pigeon Whisperer Jamie looked like she was enjoying feeding the pigeons and they seemed to like her too. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546913288899-4KC072A1MIPEMMZ01IKG/ST2_5396.jpg Media Gallery - Public Bathing Birds, they have no sense of decency. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546913531869-A8H0D96FL2TK5GO018IV/ST2_5403.jpg Media Gallery - Jesus Niche Found this little niche with some sort of artwork displayed in it. Nothing fancy or high end highly striking. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546913485886-KK7TJDETVBX0V63P7II8/ST2_5464.jpg Media Gallery - View from Class This is the view from our classroom window. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546913674940-ZJUETXK5HM7JZLJQAY0J/ST2_5463.jpg Media Gallery - View from Class 2 The view from our classroom. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546913628924-G2U4ITT7AQL0FQRXAJUT/ST2_5552.jpg Media Gallery - Sunday Service This is one of my favorite parts of the workshop. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546913531491-H3O4SUV414QJOVPQN02D/ST2_5500.jpg Media Gallery - Prayer There’s a power in prayer that is unparalleled. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546913705526-RCX7LK6MMBGVUSZE28C9/ST2_5575.jpg Media Gallery - Communion https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546913761934-ZG30GUQOY6JIVN93PQSL/ST2_5589.jpg Media Gallery - Communion - p. 2 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546913804834-M2OR212K3508AU5VU84D/ST2_5664.jpg Media Gallery - Interview Practice The instructors were doing a practice interview to show the students how to work with audio levels, how to control interviews, and how to work with a translator. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546913847018-OJVBDOFFGQ8ZHH0S1IKZ/ST2_5670.jpg Media Gallery - Instruction Instruction and announcements help keep the students on track with their projects. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1546917730346-P8H0A99AAE08Z131B9X7/ST2_5714.jpg Media Gallery - Getting Acquainted Missionaries are vital to our stories during our workshops. Without their relationships, connections, and insights to the people, culture, language, and ministries, we would have a much harder time doing what we are doing. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1547084291476-XP2LBFQ4SEZF8G9JPJCQ/ST2_5866.jpg Media Gallery - Benchmark Chart These 4 guys have spent 5 years working on improving this workshop and their passion to keep teaching students how to use media more effectively drives them to keep fine tuning. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1547084320320-RRHSOV91YU8GT3DT0UHU/ST2_5894.jpg Media Gallery - On the Grind Editing days are long and tricky but rewarding. . .eventually. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1547084374195-IFTZDEEJDOIFG1KDO6YP/ST2_5907.jpg Media Gallery - Bilingual Assets These workshops require a lot of equipment but some of the biggest blessings are those bilingual friends of ours who turn our English into other languages and give us back the English also. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1547084430335-CFR1CU93WGDAHQ0M8KX5/ST2_5969.jpg Media Gallery - Bottles The Vida Nueva Pregnancy Center here is Lima, Peru offers many resources, classes, counseling, and other things for expecting families/mothers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1547084431613-0QISVIQJM5P80M651HCC/ST2_5983.jpg Media Gallery - Building Mountains Seeing these things everywhere is great. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1547084466791-VV9ECRAZ5SHHUWGG0K5X/ST2_5989.jpg Media Gallery - Bearly Hanging On I’m not sure what their significance is but I found them very intriguing. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1547084471859-AW6MBCAB3ZNV8TPK5W8D/ST2_5997.jpg Media Gallery - Enjoying Time Together The students here have been building relationship with the person whose story they are helping to communicate visually. It’s wonderful to see them interact with one another and enjoy the time together. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1547084496303-OGVYW50UOQ348QIXZGC2/ST2_6010.jpg Media Gallery - Fetzer Academy School grounds here. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1547171316049-WTED872EC48RJQCC2XX3/ST2_6030.jpg Media Gallery - Pacific Blues Views of the Pacific today from the coastline of Peru. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1547171314625-00AX9DCFI10WCP0O6WYE/ST2_6038.jpg Media Gallery - The Looking Glass https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1547171341855-DLK9SOC5WUO2DKBMBFW7/ST2_6058.jpg Media Gallery - Pacific Blues 2 The other side of the Pacific from the coastline of Peru. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553706827547-1TMSH8D3Z8NKRW909D7Z/ST2_4002.jpg Media Gallery - Le Père Noël Father Christmas strutting his stuff on the sidewalk in Albertville, France. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553706836102-JP6QAD3V9EZ5YI8EP9QP/ST2_4005.jpg Media Gallery - End of the Street The church at the end of the road was beautiful. I didn’t go in since we had the whole troop of kiddos in tow, but it was beautiful from the outside too. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553706879213-NZCZFKE65TMV7DW3PIQ6/ST2_4006.jpg Media Gallery - Mountaintop The sites we see can be pretty outstanding. What if we stopped noticing them? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553706895737-78CAGDTOVEAC08EAD7SB/ST2_4008.jpg Media Gallery - Street Chicken The rotisserie chickens drip their fat over the potatoes so you not only get one delicious thing for a meal, you get two! And I think these chickens usually have the feet removed, unlike some! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553706923715-U9ZKVEW952SJV2HT73HG/ST2_4020.jpg Media Gallery - Merry Christmas Merry Christmas. I spent time with another missionary family that is studying French in Albertville, France. They graciously allowed me to celebrate this holiday away from my own home and family with them and their 5 children. It was wonderful. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553706961392-J9WGTHIFMVX6QK8CZXFZ/ST2_4026.jpg Media Gallery - The Tree is Trimmed Christmas decorations. . .so simple, yet so wonderful. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553707009929-D6OLS5U1HVZARKIGNWY6/ST2_4110.jpg Media Gallery - Architecture This lovely medieval town of Conflans was my Christmas day adventure. It was a little chilly, but it was a beautiful city to walk through. It hosts a castle, cathedral, a garden, a lookout, walking paths, and a gorgeous view of Albertville and its mountain peaks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553707010070-DA5FSV7YYUCVEKWFT8BY/ST2_4115.jpg Media Gallery - Conflans Cathedral This lovely medieval town of Conflans was my Christmas day adventure. It was a little chilly, but it was a beautiful city to walk through. It hosts a castle, cathedral, a garden, a lookout, walking paths, and a gorgeous view of Albertville and its mountain peaks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553707064465-CH4YI3VBVNA3VMPJDK2D/ST2_4127.jpg Media Gallery - Homage In nearly every Catholic church I’ve been in, the candles have been lit. Many have entered before me and purchased candles to light for the memory of their loved ones. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553707085791-M1PPY2BI3POIYCPH48D7/ST2_4133.jpg Media Gallery - Nativity Christmas; would it be complete without a nativity somewhere? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553707135761-CATP3GEKG5QPIJR52GVB/ST2_4138.jpg Media Gallery - Pulpit Decorations The pulpits in cathedrals are often ornate, covered with intricate and tediously detailed figures. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553707151884-JP019LQ69ZQW5RTZKI61/ST2_4145.jpg Media Gallery - Nave The naves of cathedrals are some of my favorite things to photograph inside. The lines, the colors, the ornamentation, it is all so beautifully crafted. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553707217159-L3POA436QTCZ1GLYG5Q5/ST2_4173.jpg Media Gallery - Conflans Map The map of Conflans that hangs just within the gates of the city. I walked a good portion, though not everything. With a phone that doesn’t function in the country you are in and a headache on top of that, you can’t have too much adventure in a day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553707200684-W9IT309G6BJON2EDTN0N/ST2_4174.jpg Media Gallery - Sunshine Mountain The sun was setting gently over the mountains as I prepared to head back to my friends’ home in Albertville. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553707228105-NB8OXET39GVRIPHSQ9YV/ST2_4192.jpg Media Gallery - Annecy Cathedral The cathedral in Annecy (closed that day, so no photos inside). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553707250807-PCGP0CJJGWR94HA7Y0U1/ST2_4197.jpg Media Gallery - Warm Up The Christmas market in Annecy was still open when we went. The smells of street foods and drinks filled the air while people sold their baubles and trinkets in their various wooden sheds. It was a lovely day for a walk in the brisk air with the family of 7. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553707278315-QZ67LVUNU9X05JB1HTQS/ST2_4198.jpg Media Gallery - Say "Cheese" Raclette. Not just a Swiss thing. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553707283354-1I9FV1U9PYRRW6WREBKP/ST2_4205.jpg Media Gallery - Parked on Canal One thing I wish was easier to do in the USA is bike riding. Europe has so many bikes everywhere and I often wish it was easier to have bike accessibility in many places in the States. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553707334990-LUQWY0HIDVMII6XB5B34/ST2_4207.jpg Media Gallery - Le Thiou The little river in Annecy is just over 2 miles long and is one of the shortest rivers in France. It is the byproduct of Lake Annecy and it runs into the Fier River. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553707331754-I527ZQZ7H7TS0674OTZE/ST2_4266.jpg Media Gallery - Comfort This bike is not one I would want to ride for very long. Your options would either be a sore rear end or extra tired legs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553707393939-9DE9BM4VI493YD26DPKY/ST2_4304.jpg Media Gallery - Notre Dame When I made it to Paris after Christmas, I walked from the train station toward the Orsay Museum. It was a chilly day. It wasn’t overly windy but the temperature was low and it was foggy. However, the fog made my first sights of Notre Dame even more enthralling. The closer I got, the more she revealed herself and the progressive unveiling was fantastic! Her facade is absolutely incredible and the insides are wonderful as well. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553707388077-BYW5KWZ97P14EHZOEKK0/ST2_4308.jpg Media Gallery - The Tail of the Queue It was roughly 10am when I took this photo. People were lined up in all sorts of twists and turns, waiting for their turn to buy a ticket to tour Notre Dame. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553708971785-M8VWPL6T3XA87Y7S4G1J/ST2_4896.jpg Media Gallery - Notre Dame and the Pope Part of the Notre Dame behind the statue of Saint Jean Paul II. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553708987405-WJ4OFMSRTW3210LVMO04/ST2_4901-2.jpg Media Gallery - Classic B&amp;W One of the most notable monuments in Paris (and in all of Europe for that matter) is the Notre Dame Cathedral. This Catholic treasure is over 800 years old. It is located on a small island called the Ile de la Cite in the middle of the River Seine. The building of the cathedral was completed over the course of 200 years; it was started in 1163 during the reign of King Louis VII and was completed in 1345. source: https://notredamecathedralparis.com/history/ https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553709018049-VR2C33HX1P8CZ8OV7X0E/ST2_4907-2.jpg Media Gallery - Classic B&amp;W 2 One of the most notable monuments in Paris (and in all of Europe for that matter) is the Notre Dame Cathedral. This Catholic treasure is over 800 years old. It is located on a small island called the Ile de la Cite in the middle of the River Seine. The building of the cathedral was completed over the course of 200 years; it was started in 1163 during the reign of King Louis VII and was completed in 1345. source: https://notredamecathedralparis.com/history/ https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553707432773-6OAB6ZAK1P7BGUQV3BPQ/ST2_4316.jpg Media Gallery - L'Institut du France “Incredibly, France is the only country that can boast an institution where all endeavours of the mind are covered in one place whether it be scientific, economist, sculptor, musician, historian, etc, and the Institut de France still continues its role today, with the building itself being classified as an historical monument in Paris back in 1862.” source: https://www.eutouring.com/institut_de_france_history.html https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553707474417-91BLKZIJDZW2AZ05KJBV/ST2_4331.jpg Media Gallery - Musée d'Orsay The train station turned museum hosts a wide range of paintings, sculptures, artifacts, furnishings, and films collections. From Van Gogh to Rodin, it’s quite the place to visit! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553707474091-IFEMSIXI4FIH8LCURGIO/ST2_4341.jpg Media Gallery - The Grand Face One of my favorite parts of the Musée d’Orsay formerly being a train station is the preservation of these massive clock faces. This one here has been left to adorn the room and allow people to take photos, yet its sister is seated on the edge of a lovely little cafe just down the grand hall. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553707557258-7J5I6DAWQ9WFZI0Z1FMW/ST2_4353.jpg Media Gallery - The Grand Face 2 The twin of the other clock, keeping time while its diners pass it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553707549384-YHGGX4T3YQZFP4EA23Z9/ST2_4362.jpg Media Gallery - Like a Nave Similar to the nave in the cathedrals, the open main hallway of the old train station boasts some incredible leading lines, symmetry, geometry, and other fancy words. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553707591436-PRMNO5TFXU2BKG71HYLM/ST2_4382.jpg Media Gallery - Mercury Inventing the Caduceus Mercury Inventing the Caduceus 19th Century Jean Antoine Idrac Plaster high relief https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553707636698-S54DB3D8D1XK04LGAUEG/ST2_4385.jpg Media Gallery - The Alligator Hunters Nubians, also called The Alligator Hunters 1894 Ernest Barrias Plaster high relief https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553707680958-QKU9B4DKKC79VNGON2KC/ST2_4394.jpg Media Gallery - Gérôme Executing The Gladiators Gérôme Executing The Gladiators, Monument to Gérôme Between 1878 and 1909 Jean-Léon Gérôme, Aimé Morot Bronze group https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553707726038-BCVAOMTGN4K7VMLW8J3G/ST2_4400.jpg Media Gallery - Golden Hour The Main Hall clock in the Orsay Museum hangs just above the main entrance doors into the Hall that houses many of the sculptures within the museum. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553707726033-48K4IFHRCAC9BOXYDIHM/ST2_4425.jpg Media Gallery - Musée d'Orsay 2 The train station turned museum hosts a wide range of paintings, sculptures, artifacts, furnishings, and films collections. From Van Gogh to Rodin, it’s quite the place to visit! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553707771108-38EEID3UVFC3V0B6CNMM/ST2_4431.jpg Media Gallery - Tuileries Garden The Tuileries Garden not only hosts ponds and fountains but also plants, trees, sculptures, cafes, and more. Just beyond the garden you can see the Luxor Obelisk in the midst of the Place de la Concorde. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553707768598-AQ34IO9WQNQQOZ6I4KY8/ST2_4442.jpg Media Gallery - Versailles I took another stroll down the streets of Paris from a train station to see, bit by bit through the diminishing morning fog, the Palace of Versailles. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553707823617-9AEGMFW70HG9TJJHT28A/ST2_4444.jpg Media Gallery - The Palace Gates The golden gates of the Palace of Versailles are beautiful and quite a sight to see. Their size and decoration are indredible. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553707815698-8VIQ4GQYQSZVXMYURX80/ST2_4454.jpg Media Gallery - The Courtyard I finally made it inside the courtyard after waiting in line for around 45 minutes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553707878156-O5L0N4ZVCNFZ25ITOXJP/ST2_4458.jpg Media Gallery - Palace of Versailles In 1789, the French Revolution forced Louis XVI to leave Versailles for Paris. The Palace would never again be a royal residence and a new role was assigned to it in the 19th century, when it became the Museum of the History of France in 1837 by order of King Louis-Philippe , who came to the throne in 1830. source: en.chateauversailles.fr/discover/estate/palace https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553707918032-8F0YCGPGLEQOYIQTNND2/ST2_4467.jpg Media Gallery - Palace of Versailles 2 In 1789, the French Revolution forced Louis XVI to leave Versailles for Paris. The Palace would never again be a royal residence and a new role was assigned to it in the 19th century, when it became the Museum of the History of France in 1837 by order of King Louis-Philippe , who came to the throne in 1830. source: en.chateauversailles.fr/discover/estate/palace https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553707992235-J6BGW27V2MH76BS7EJM0/ST2_4468.jpg Media Gallery - Palace of Versailles 3 In 1789, the French Revolution forced Louis XVI to leave Versailles for Paris. The Palace would never again be a royal residence and a new role was assigned to it in the 19th century, when it became the Museum of the History of France in 1837 by order of King Louis-Philippe , who came to the throne in 1830. source: en.chateauversailles.fr/discover/estate/palace https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553707994594-0AQ9O5FD02885GXZ6V20/ST2_4478.jpg Media Gallery - Palace of Versailles 4 In 1789, the French Revolution forced Louis XVI to leave Versailles for Paris. The Palace would never again be a royal residence and a new role was assigned to it in the 19th century, when it became the Museum of the History of France in 1837 by order of King Louis-Philippe , who came to the throne in 1830. source: en.chateauversailles.fr/discover/estate/palace https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553708068311-0JJ075NYLCS8VCTMQUBL/ST2_4509.jpg Media Gallery - Palace of Versailles 5 In 1789, the French Revolution forced Louis XVI to leave Versailles for Paris. The Palace would never again be a royal residence and a new role was assigned to it in the 19th century, when it became the Museum of the History of France in 1837 by order of King Louis-Philippe , who came to the throne in 1830. source: en.chateauversailles.fr/discover/estate/palace https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553708100763-1HNH1515F8YTGNGC5FPV/ST2_4570.jpg Media Gallery - Palace of Versailles 6 In 1789, the French Revolution forced Louis XVI to leave Versailles for Paris. The Palace would never again be a royal residence and a new role was assigned to it in the 19th century, when it became the Museum of the History of France in 1837 by order of King Louis-Philippe , who came to the throne in 1830. source: en.chateauversailles.fr/discover/estate/palace https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553708151366-UDTCRBAXT79UFWH4ZC9R/ST2_4581.jpg Media Gallery - Hall of Mirrors In 1789, the French Revolution forced Louis XVI to leave Versailles for Paris. The Palace would never again be a royal residence and a new role was assigned to it in the 19th century, when it became the Museum of the History of France in 1837 by order of King Louis-Philippe , who came to the throne in 1830. source: en.chateauversailles.fr/discover/estate/palace https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553708203621-OFGG5ZKOW68IB50Z427Y/ST2_4591.jpg Media Gallery - Hall of Mirrors 2 In 1789, the French Revolution forced Louis XVI to leave Versailles for Paris. The Palace would never again be a royal residence and a new role was assigned to it in the 19th century, when it became the Museum of the History of France in 1837 by order of King Louis-Philippe , who came to the throne in 1830. source: en.chateauversailles.fr/discover/estate/palace https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553708214037-MCF7PAR1O412J3RF5FFM/ST2_4604-2.jpg Media Gallery - Palace of Versailles 7 In 1789, the French Revolution forced Louis XVI to leave Versailles for Paris. The Palace would never again be a royal residence and a new role was assigned to it in the 19th century, when it became the Museum of the History of France in 1837 by order of King Louis-Philippe , who came to the throne in 1830. source: en.chateauversailles.fr/discover/estate/palace https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553708291444-MPWTA025QRGCJWA1S81Z/ST2_4626.jpg Media Gallery - Palace of Versailles 8 In 1789, the French Revolution forced Louis XVI to leave Versailles for Paris. The Palace would never again be a royal residence and a new role was assigned to it in the 19th century, when it became the Museum of the History of France in 1837 by order of King Louis-Philippe , who came to the throne in 1830. source: en.chateauversailles.fr/discover/estate/palace https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553708275525-L72TATVMKNNWGMI9VOLE/ST2_4660.jpg Media Gallery - Palace of Versailles 9 bIn 1789, the French Revolution forced Louis XVI to leave Versailles for Paris. The Palace would never again be a royal residence and a new role was assigned to it in the 19th century, when it became the Museum of the History of France in 1837 by order of King Louis-Philippe , who came to the throne in 1830. source: en.chateauversailles.fr/discover/estate/palace https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553708311839-W045EJRVCBP45NCTHOXC/ST2_4669.jpg Media Gallery - Latona's Fountain The central marble group was sculpted by the Marsy brothers and features Latona and her children. When the fountain was first created in 1668 it was originally placed on a rock surrounded by six figures of peasants in mid-transformation, with 24 frogs positioned on the strip of lawn surrounding the fountain. At the time the goddess was looking towards the Palace. This layout was modified by Jules Hardouin-Mansart between 1687 and 1689. The rock was replaced by a marble pyramid and the group containing Latona was turned to face the Grand Canal. Latona’s Fountain also has a parterre containing the two Lizard Fountains. source: http://en.chateauversailles.fr/discover/estate/gardens/fountains#latonas-fountain https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553708346455-L58IWC0Z6IZL46RZ96HX/ST2_4680.jpg Media Gallery - Apollo's Fountain A water feature already existed here in 1636, during the reign of Louis XIII, and was known as the Lake of the Swans. Louis XIV later added the spectacular and famous work in gilded lead of Apollo riding his chariot. This piece, built by Tuby on a design by Le Brun, is based on the legend of Apollo, the Sun god and the King’s icon. It features the god bursting forth from the water in anticipation of his daily flight above the earth. Tuby made this monumental group in the Gobelins manufacture between 1668 and 1670, when it was transported to Versailles and put in place and gilded the following year. source: http://en.chateauversailles.fr/discover/estate/gardens/fountains#apollos-fountain https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553708437262-DP8XYM3ZRL726BD578P6/ST2_4718.jpg Media Gallery - Palace of Versailles 10 bIn 1789, the French Revolution forced Louis XVI to leave Versailles for Paris. The Palace would never again be a royal residence and a new role was assigned to it in the 19th century, when it became the Museum of the History of France in 1837 by order of King Louis-Philippe , who came to the throne in 1830. source: en.chateauversailles.fr/discover/estate/palace https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553708440392-NDNASR3FNPBO03I13MZU/ST2_4725.jpg Media Gallery - Palace of Versailles 11 bIn 1789, the French Revolution forced Louis XVI to leave Versailles for Paris. The Palace would never again be a royal residence and a new role was assigned to it in the 19th century, when it became the Museum of the History of France in 1837 by order of King Louis-Philippe , who came to the throne in 1830. source: en.chateauversailles.fr/discover/estate/palace https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553708598835-7VMQZLU5NRNRXOGAF9GT/ST2_4759.jpg Media Gallery - Jeanne d'Arc Jeanne d'Arc is an 1874 French gilded bronze equestrian sculpture of Joan of Arc by Emmanuel Frémiet. The outdoor statue is prominently displayed in the Place des Pyramides in Paris. Wikipedia https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553708634904-3IWP699Z711EPMTYRF8F/ST2_4783.jpg Media Gallery - The Louvre The Louvre, originally a royal palace but now the world's most famous museum, is a must-visit for anyone with a slight interest in art. Some of the museum's most celebrated works of art include the Mona Lisa and the Venus of Milo. The Louvre Museum is one of the largest and most important museums in the world. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553708729682-4ABHDQN0ZMYJIH1SMSHT/ST2_4789.jpg Media Gallery - The Louvre 2 The Louvre, originally a royal palace but now the world's most famous museum, is a must-visit for anyone with a slight interest in art. Some of the museum's most celebrated works of art include the Mona Lisa and the Venus of Milo. The Louvre Museum is one of the largest and most important museums in the world. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553708739141-MW2F2CG9L321XZH02IB6/ST2_4796.jpg Media Gallery - The Louvre 3 The Louvre, originally a royal palace but now the world's most famous museum, is a must-visit for anyone with a slight interest in art. Some of the museum's most celebrated works of art include the Mona Lisa and the Venus of Milo. The Louvre Museum is one of the largest and most important museums in the world. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553708827048-C1M24RC5OC8OMW6WHVHD/ST2_4799.jpg Media Gallery - The Louvre 4 The Louvre, originally a royal palace but now the world's most famous museum, is a must-visit for anyone with a slight interest in art. Some of the museum's most celebrated works of art include the Mona Lisa and the Venus of Milo. The Louvre Museum is one of the largest and most important museums in the world. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553708804878-ZPV1GS75ZWNRK57A2VRU/ST2_4818.jpg Media Gallery - The Louvre 5 The Louvre, originally a royal palace but now the world's most famous museum, is a must-visit for anyone with a slight interest in art. Some of the museum's most celebrated works of art include the Mona Lisa and the Venus of Milo. The Louvre Museum is one of the largest and most important museums in the world. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553708878688-K561ST9MNWODMLE8EPXZ/ST2_4836.jpg Media Gallery - The Louvre 6 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553708862439-1Q6ME4QV2SNWDDOKMT2K/ST2_4842.jpg Media Gallery - The Eiffel Tower While I didn’t go to visit the Eiffel Tower, I still appreciated being able to see it from the Tuileries Garden. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553709016989-0P8UAPSCYOXPUSDJXQH3/ST2_4926.jpg Media Gallery - Light-fel Tower Something was happening across the way at the Eiffel Tower. I don’t know what it was but I enjoyed the light show anyway. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1553708946305-MBHO23J549PFL175SD33/ST2_4890.jpg Media Gallery - Les Bougies Candles lit in memory of loved ones in a church in Paris, France. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556341647876-PTHWT0RTJ9AARVG2PK8K/ST2_7745.jpg Media Gallery - First Glimpse After getting off the metro at the Duomo stop, this was my first glimpse of Piazza del Duomo in Milan, Italy. My brother and I went to spend the weekend of Holy Week there and we were not disappointed by the beauty of this city. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556341651954-2KHP70VIAWQDNE2YK7ND/ST2_7748.jpg Media Gallery - Ornamentation Gothic architecture, to me, is one of the most beautiful types of architecture. The insane amount of detail, precision, and the amount of angles, corner, and leading lines gives the eye so much to marvel at. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556341720768-QC276XRYS33OFHO8T8CV/ST2_7749.jpg Media Gallery - Ornamentation 2 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556341692105-W03O3J8CR1YH32NBYCTB/ST2_7752.jpg Media Gallery - Single File Gothic architecture, to me, is one of the most beautiful types of architecture. The insane amount of detail, precision, and the amount of angles, corner, and leading lines gives the eye so much to marvel at. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556341752788-83LUBDGGC9A7K9GK1YIH/ST2_7756.jpg Media Gallery - Intersections Gothic architecture, to me, is one of the most beautiful types of architecture. The insane amount of detail, precision, and the amount of angles, corner, and leading lines gives the eye so much to marvel at. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556341792652-N52SNUQP3H64ZL8EYDH6/ST2_7759.jpg Media Gallery - Don't Forget to Look Up Sometimes we miss interesting shots or unique perspectives because we’re too busy looking straight ahead, all around, or sometimes even down. Make sure you look up sometimes. Way up. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556341794818-6L07SWEJMNGYGZY47JDU/ST2_7767.jpg Media Gallery - Frame[d] I have been trying to focus on growing my skill by learning to shoot through things. This style is used a lot by photojournalists who work to preserve the natural ambiance of a shot (working to preserve the ethics of shooting what is real and not manipulating scenes to invoke emotion or thought). Sometimes shooting through is ugly and sometimes it comes out well but the more you do it, the better you become. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556341853276-WRQ7IDP2JY4W00EQKS7F/ST2_7769.jpg Media Gallery - Light and Shadows Gothic architecture, to me, is one of the most beautiful types of architecture. The insane amount of detail, precision, and the amount of angles, corner, and leading lines gives the eye so much to marvel at. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556341833207-PMTGIXNAINL6X1RHGFM3/ST2_7771.jpg Media Gallery - Peaks Gothic architecture, to me, is one of the most beautiful types of architecture. The insane amount of detail, precision, and the amount of angles, corner, and leading lines gives the eye so much to marvel at. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556341888306-0J64B9ZDHCVGDPSQDHO4/ST2_7776.jpg Media Gallery - Frame[d] Again I have been trying to focus on growing my skill by learning to shoot through things. This style is used a lot by photojournalists who work to preserve the natural ambiance of a shot (working to preserve the ethics of shooting what is real and not manipulating scenes to invoke emotion or thought). Sometimes shooting through is ugly and sometimes it comes out well but the more you do it, the better you become. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556341957509-WL8WRBY8JIUGN150IHXO/ST2_7792.jpg Media Gallery - Look Down Sometimes we miss interesting shots or unique perspectives because we’re too busy looking straight ahead, all around, or sometimes even up a bit. Make sure you look down sometimes. Way down. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556341958948-NZ2BXCGT8Y4S2UGARCD0/ST2_7796.jpg Media Gallery - Overlooking Gothic architecture, to me, is one of the most beautiful types of architecture. The insane amount of detail, precision, and the amount of angles, corner, and leading lines gives the eye so much to marvel at. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556342011343-7FMAXIP7VURFUJMGFQ4Q/ST2_7800.jpg Media Gallery - Madonnina The apex of the Duomo rests on top of the guglia del tiburio or “the lantern spire”; it is the Madonnina (Virgin Mary). This spire makes the Duomo the tallest building in Milan. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556342009902-SAO6FQ2Q1FZ9NVEUDEY7/ST2_7801.jpg Media Gallery - City Sentries It appeared to me like these statues resting atop the various spires that surround the Duomo were looking out over the city as though they were sentries. Perhaps that’s the symbol behind them and why it was chosen that they would face out instead of face in. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556342062107-OST2N2O208SLESYXLZDX/ST2_7804.jpg Media Gallery - Old and New As the Duomo undergoes some repairs and renovations, you can almost clearly tell 100% of the time which parts have been reconstructed and which were the original (or at least older repairs) from its construction. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556342106987-BW3NV30FSTQ9GME96ZLK/ST2_7830.jpg Media Gallery - Do You Feel Small? This building continually made me feel small as I rounded corners, looked up, looked down, looked around, etc. It is so vast. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556342112292-8WAXX115HG753SA7FYAQ/ST2_7837.jpg Media Gallery - Italy Sometimes the wind blows at just the right angle and time. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556342169442-7B1LC69RYF002QWFAW1B/ST2_7838.jpg Media Gallery - Do You Feel Small? 2 This building continually made me feel small as I rounded corners, looked up, looked down, looked around, etc. It is so vast. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556342171269-3DTHDB0E5SNGUJETPQGS/ST2_7842.jpg Media Gallery - Window Art It isn’t just stained glass and sheer size that makes the windows of the Duomo a sight to marvel at. Each large one is edged with massive, nearly life sized statues of men and women in various states. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556342278653-3IJ1FHZBW48RPVMH1GTH/ST2_7846.jpg Media Gallery - Center Stage In some areas there are small court like areas that house a square of statues. The gargoyles and other characters all face in from the four corners to focus the attention on the statue commanding respect in the middle. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556342245444-LOWSND2TNV8TWXL8K86G/ST2_7857.jpg Media Gallery - Face Me They might have put a bar through part of his head as a safeguard for walking tourists but he’s still in pretty good shape to be so old. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556342288373-Q85EMOLPGB7ZVXS26CFM/ST2_7860.jpg Media Gallery - Lines Lines in photography are crucial to composing good shots. Don’t just look for something “pretty”, look for unique structures, new angles, and contrasting lines. Create depth.. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556342352561-0I95KX99DG97MG4DTL8A/ST2_7874.jpg Media Gallery - Duomo Trying to find a way to see large sections of this massive cathedral was quite difficult but it was great to get these different shots. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556342365463-I89Z1TNMR6RMIJYPBG2X/ST2_7876.jpg Media Gallery - Duomo 2 Trying to find a way to see large sections of this massive cathedral was quite difficult but it was great to get these different shots. The stained glass windows are simply massive and the opposite sides were incredible to look at! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556342423643-7OIZ2HZBPAAWOHRQFTD5/ST2_7880.jpg Media Gallery - Duomo 3 Trying to find a way to see large sections of this massive cathedral was quite difficult but it was great to get these different shots. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556342411982-MTCQGNRLSEMDYOC8L7ZX/ST2_7883.jpg Media Gallery - Statues There are 3,400 statues, 135 gargoyles and 700 figures that decorate Milan Duomo! Climb the stairs or take the lift to the rooftop to fully appreciate the architecture of the most renowned silhouette in the city. From the terrazza you’ll see breathtaking views across Milan and, on clear days, the snow-capped peaks of the Alps. You can also see the famous Madonnina, the gold-colored statue of Mary that stands on the cathedral’s highest spire. source: https://www.walksofitaly.com/blog/milan/milan-duomo-facts https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556342465068-VTZ53471UORL9SM803EY/ST2_7893.jpg Media Gallery - Statues 2 There are 3,400 statues, 135 gargoyles and 700 figures that decorate Milan Duomo! Climb the stairs or take the lift to the rooftop to fully appreciate the architecture of the most renowned silhouette in the city. From the terrazza you’ll see breathtaking views across Milan and, on clear days, the snow-capped peaks of the Alps. You can also see the famous Madonnina, the gold-colored statue of Mary that stands on the cathedral’s highest spire. source: https://www.walksofitaly.com/blog/milan/milan-duomo-facts https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556342490589-EX6UEPON4GH0ZFO6ADRQ/ST2_7907.jpg Media Gallery - Milan's Cathedral The Duomo is the fifth largest Christian church in the world Outdone by St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, the Basilica of Our Lady of Aparecida in Brazil, Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York and Seville’s Cathedral, Milan Cathedral is still one big church! Covering a surface of 109,641 square feet and an entire city block, its size is even more impressive considering it’s the oldest church on that list. https://www.walksofitaly.com/blog/milan/milan-duomo-facts https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556342524610-LNNVPCGCPUZRXZ4FUJWR/ST2_7938.jpg Media Gallery - Basilica of Sant'Eustorgio At the intersection of legend, tradition, and history stands the Basilica di Sant'Eustorgio. The foundation of this 4th century basilica is built upon the spot where, according to tradition, the apostle Barnabas baptized the first Christians in Milan. Eustorgio I, the city bishop from 344 AD, had the church built to house the relics of the Three Kings; legend has it that the animals pulling the cart of relics reached the spot and refused to continue. It may also coincide with a cemetery of early Christians martyred prior to the Edict of Milan. Whatever lies beneath it, today the church is filled with works by Lombard artists from the 13th to the 15th centuries. Source: https://www.inyourpocket.com/Milan/Basilica-di-SantEustorgio_134541v https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556342603260-CEE76OW1XMBA4XP0GGV9/ST2_7946.jpg Media Gallery - The Nave At the intersection of legend, tradition, and history stands the Basilica di Sant'Eustorgio. The foundation of this 4th century basilica is built upon the spot where, according to tradition, the apostle Barnabas baptized the first Christians in Milan. Eustorgio I, the city bishop from 344 AD, had the church built to house the relics of the Three Kings; legend has it that the animals pulling the cart of relics reached the spot and refused to continue. It may also coincide with a cemetery of early Christians martyred prior to the Edict of Milan. Whatever lies beneath it, today the church is filled with works by Lombard artists from the 13th to the 15th centuries. Source: https://www.inyourpocket.com/Milan/Basilica-di-SantEustorgio_134541v https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556342604062-K74IF8AJ0BE3A9ZQK64V/ST2_7959.jpg Media Gallery - Memorial At the intersection of legend, tradition, and history stands the Basilica di Sant'Eustorgio. The foundation of this 4th century basilica is built upon the spot where, according to tradition, the apostle Barnabas baptized the first Christians in Milan. Eustorgio I, the city bishop from 344 AD, had the church built to house the relics of the Three Kings; legend has it that the animals pulling the cart of relics reached the spot and refused to continue. It may also coincide with a cemetery of early Christians martyred prior to the Edict of Milan. Whatever lies beneath it, today the church is filled with works by Lombard artists from the 13th to the 15th centuries. Source: https://www.inyourpocket.com/Milan/Basilica-di-SantEustorgio_134541v https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556342703600-0AAR0222700WK1RMZGZU/ST2_7961.jpg Media Gallery - Inside the Basilica At the intersection of legend, tradition, and history stands the Basilica di Sant'Eustorgio. The foundation of this 4th century basilica is built upon the spot where, according to tradition, the apostle Barnabas baptized the first Christians in Milan. Eustorgio I, the city bishop from 344 AD, had the church built to house the relics of the Three Kings; legend has it that the animals pulling the cart of relics reached the spot and refused to continue. It may also coincide with a cemetery of early Christians martyred prior to the Edict of Milan. Whatever lies beneath it, today the church is filled with works by Lombard artists from the 13th to the 15th centuries. Source: https://www.inyourpocket.com/Milan/Basilica-di-SantEustorgio_134541v https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556342727762-9BV44B3WVXEF2A207IHA/ST2_7963.jpg Media Gallery - Mother and Son This statue of Mary and Jesus after the crucifixion sits just outside the nave in the basilica of St. Eustorgio. It has been reconstructed in certain spots as time has not been kind to it. This was a poignant thing to view on the Saturday between Good Friday and Resurrection Sunday. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556342786640-D9UHQTB0JPD5Q9UBHL0H/ST2_7979.jpg Media Gallery - Basilica of Sant'Ambrogio Early Christian Basilica (4th century) The Basilica of St. Ambrose was begun by Bishop Ambrose himself around 385 and consecrated in386. The church was built on a grand scale over an existing cemetery, next to the martyrium of St. Victor. Two local martyrs provided the necessary relics for the altar, and Ambrose was buried next to them after his death on April 4, 397. The original basilica has been excavated beneath the existing building. Surviving foundations indicate it had two side aisles, a marble floor, a semicircular apse, and a four-columned baldacchino over the high altar. The west facade has not been located so the exact length of the nave is unknown, but it had at least 13 bays. It almost certainly had a large west porch on the same foundations as the present one. If so, it was a huge complex of more than 300 Roman feet long and 100 feet wide, larger than contemporary basilicas in Rome. Source: http://orthochristian.com/88974.html https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556342780814-R5JXBV2VJ1HY0PIZ9BHJ/ST2_7982.jpg Media Gallery - Basilica of Sant'Ambrogio 2 Early Christian Basilica (4th century) The Basilica of St. Ambrose was begun by Bishop Ambrose himself around 385 and consecrated in386. The church was built on a grand scale over an existing cemetery, next to the martyrium of St. Victor. Two local martyrs provided the necessary relics for the altar, and Ambrose was buried next to them after his death on April 4, 397. The original basilica has been excavated beneath the existing building. Surviving foundations indicate it had two side aisles, a marble floor, a semicircular apse, and a four-columned baldacchino over the high altar. The west facade has not been located so the exact length of the nave is unknown, but it had at least 13 bays. It almost certainly had a large west porch on the same foundations as the present one. If so, it was a huge complex of more than 300 Roman feet long and 100 feet wide, larger than contemporary basilicas in Rome. Source: http://orthochristian.com/88974.html https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556342931941-WF4MP27AQ6YDZDLJBAAA/ST2_7985.jpg Media Gallery - Nave of St. Ambrogio's Basilica Early Christian Basilica (4th century) The Basilica of St. Ambrose was begun by Bishop Ambrose himself around 385 and consecrated in386. The church was built on a grand scale over an existing cemetery, next to the martyrium of St. Victor. Two local martyrs provided the necessary relics for the altar, and Ambrose was buried next to them after his death on April 4, 397. The original basilica has been excavated beneath the existing building. Surviving foundations indicate it had two side aisles, a marble floor, a semicircular apse, and a four-columned baldacchino over the high altar. The west facade has not been located so the exact length of the nave is unknown, but it had at least 13 bays. It almost certainly had a large west porch on the same foundations as the present one. If so, it was a huge complex of more than 300 Roman feet long and 100 feet wide, larger than contemporary basilicas in Rome. Source: http://orthochristian.com/88974.html https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556342849876-P50YX7DKWEAULOBU1TRR/ST2_7995.jpg Media Gallery - Tempio Della Vittoria This Temple of Victory is surrounded by some incredibly large columns, statues, and other embossed designs. Underneath the Temple are several levels of rooms dedicated to those who were killed in various wars. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556342923964-2MR035IRH3JM7OHNR4WO/ST2_7998.jpg Media Gallery - Tempio Della Vittoria 2 This Temple of Victory is surrounded by some incredibly large columns, statues, and other embossed designs. Underneath the Temple are several levels of rooms dedicated to those who were killed in various wars. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556342986195-23XPLBY29M7S4IZ5ZYNQ/ST2_8003.jpg Media Gallery - Tempio Della Vittoria 3 This Temple of Victory is surrounded by some incredibly large columns, statues, and other embossed designs. Underneath the Temple are several levels of rooms dedicated to those who were killed in various wars. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556343007774-2JREDBGCYYU7CN2AAZJ4/ST2_8022.jpg Media Gallery - Castello Sforzesco Sforza Castle (Italian: Castello Sforzesco) is in Milan, northern Italy. It was built in the 15th century by Francesco Sforza, Duke of Milan, on the remnants of a 14th-century fortification. Later renovated and enlarged, in the 16th and 17th centuries it was one of the largest citadels in Europe. Extensively rebuilt by Luca Beltrami in 1891–1905, it now houses several of the city's museums and art collections. source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sforza_Castle https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556343069172-UDFWA96J5BAYLZF29SOT/ST2_8024.jpg Media Gallery - Castello Sforzeco 2 Sforza Castle (Italian: Castello Sforzesco) is in Milan, northern Italy. It was built in the 15th century by Francesco Sforza, Duke of Milan, on the remnants of a 14th-century fortification. Later renovated and enlarged, in the 16th and 17th centuries it was one of the largest citadels in Europe. Extensively rebuilt by Luca Beltrami in 1891–1905, it now houses several of the city's museums and art collections. source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sforza_Castle https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556343070593-Z0RAFNDRFDMC54Y7CQUE/ST2_8025.jpg Media Gallery - Castello Sforzeco 3 Sforza Castle (Italian: Castello Sforzesco) is in Milan, northern Italy. It was built in the 15th century by Francesco Sforza, Duke of Milan, on the remnants of a 14th-century fortification. Later renovated and enlarged, in the 16th and 17th centuries it was one of the largest citadels in Europe. Extensively rebuilt by Luca Beltrami in 1891–1905, it now houses several of the city's museums and art collections. source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sforza_Castle https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556343146180-RSUDHCMG3WS7MBQ0AI1W/ST2_8032.jpg Media Gallery - A New Angle On Saturday I found a new angle of the Duomo. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556343244267-DC1WANIDHL1WRFKWYTZ3/ST2_8036.jpg Media Gallery - Feeling Small I was constantly feeling dwarfed by this massive building. It was an incredible experience to visit this cathedral. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556343237064-MVBYUYMGW1BQ3PFRD0EF/ST2_8087.jpg Media Gallery - Reflect Walking “home” along this little canal https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556343271508-NT4EC2BXRRCFAHO326M7/ST2_8182.jpg Media Gallery - Look, Grandpa! These precious two were sitting in front of us during Sunday mass. I wished I had taken a picture of the young boy as he was kneeling on the floor, “reading” during the mass but I resisted. Shortly after I discovered he and his grandpa walking down the sidewalk hand in hand. This time I had to get some photos! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556343294459-FF9S4VUSZGYX2VA54GY3/ST2_8183.jpg Media Gallery - Walk with Me These precious two were sitting in front of us during Sunday mass. I wished I had taken a picture of the young boy as he was kneeling on the floor, “reading” during the mass but I resisted. Shortly after I discovered he and his grandpa walking down the sidewalk hand in hand. This time I had to get some photos! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556343350567-DFK5KOCVH1BF44EGV2EG/ST2_8207.jpg Media Gallery - Waiting in Line It took us about an hour and fifteen minutes to get inside on Monday but it was quite worth the wait. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556343410171-779CPUVK81UWWI4SJJ7Z/ST2_8213.jpg Media Gallery - Scare the Pigeons Pigeons and cathedrals are always a great combination for pictures. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556343412778-NASPFJZX2TUNM7LHRTM1/ST2_8226.jpg Media Gallery - Inside the Duomo This massive cathedral is just absolutely beautiful, inside and out. It was so crazy to see just how detailed and large everything was! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556343511947-5WIJ6EYYPAUKX10D9WIT/ST2_8241.jpg Media Gallery - Inside the Duomo 2 This massive cathedral is just absolutely beautiful, inside and out. It was so crazy to see just how detailed and large everything was! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556343540602-ZSC0VE2HVROSMTSWU8YX/ST2_8246.jpg Media Gallery - Inside the Duomo 3 This massive cathedral is just absolutely beautiful, inside and out. It was so crazy to see just how detailed and large everything was! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556343616205-GVW9ELRG1H6UFWVOWH7S/ST2_8249.jpg Media Gallery - Inside the Duomo 4 This massive cathedral is just absolutely beautiful, inside and out. It was so crazy to see just how detailed and large everything was! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556343631338-HHEKCLPQQ2IHN9RCR89Z/ST2_8257.jpg Media Gallery - Inside the Duomo 5 This massive cathedral is just absolutely beautiful, inside and out. It was so crazy to see just how detailed and large everything was! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556343775458-BIDNX6NHWXMWKJ76A1MX/ST2_8263.jpg Media Gallery - Inside the Duomo 6 This massive cathedral is just absolutely beautiful, inside and out. It was so crazy to see just how detailed and large everything was! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556343753193-ODKABZACVRXRUF1W6C8H/ST2_8270.jpg Media Gallery - Inside the Duomo 7 This massive cathedral is just absolutely beautiful, inside and out. It was so crazy to see just how detailed and large everything was! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556343877524-GDFW6Q6WIESAJ7R42BS8/ST2_8271.jpg Media Gallery - Inside the Duomo 8 This massive cathedral is just absolutely beautiful, inside and out. It was so crazy to see just how detailed and large everything was! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556343913151-IU69205LOSGD0AHKRX3N/ST2_8275.jpg Media Gallery - Inside the Duomo 8 This massive cathedral is just absolutely beautiful, inside and out. It was so crazy to see just how detailed and large everything was! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556344010629-020KQ1GDIEVNPMQ7TU7Y/ST2_8279.jpg Media Gallery - The Nave of the Duomo This massive cathedral is just absolutely beautiful, inside and out. It was so crazy to see just how detailed and large everything was! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556344080839-LR0FRUUT7OV1GB13AD6V/ST2_8288.jpg Media Gallery - The Last Look Farewell Duomo! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1556344118324-3X4IZTXNRL89QHTSBXIE/ST2_8297.jpg Media Gallery - Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II (Italian: [ɡalleˈriːa vitˈtɔːrjo emanuˈɛːle seˈkondo]) is Italy's oldest active shopping mall and a major landmark of Milan, Italy. Housed within a four-story double arcade in the center of town,[1] the Galleria is named after Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of the Kingdom of Italy. It was designed in 1861 and built by architect Giuseppe Mengoni between 1865 and 1867. source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Galleria_Vittorio_Emanuele_II https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1557150718258-B6N2BDS0VFMOIUUS0MAX/ST2_8609.jpg Media Gallery - Frühlingsfest In the spring in Stuttgart there is a knock off of Octoberfest that happens. It’s full of festival foods, rides, games, and people dressed up. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1557150730556-BNGWY6QPIXR96R2SQPW0/ST2_8619.jpg Media Gallery - Frühlingsfest 2 In the spring in Stuttgart there is a knock off of Octoberfest that happens. It’s full of festival foods, rides, games, and people dressed up. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1557151023470-T1W4DBVNIF3UNAECEQVC/ST2_8620.jpg Media Gallery - Bratwurst We ate some delicious bratwurst for dinner from this place. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1557151123675-B0MKD3ZVIK4XS03LGY7W/ST2_8623.jpg Media Gallery - Frühlingsfest 3 In the spring in Stuttgart there is a knock off of Octoberfest that happens. It’s full of festival foods, rides, games, and people dressed up. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1557151203865-90EE80TQHZTAU1DFV15F/ST2_8630.jpg Media Gallery - Frühlingsfest 4 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1557151386258-93XBOU0A5V4OJLJI9NH4/ST2_8642.jpg Media Gallery - Mercedes-Benz Museum We spent our first full day in Stuttgart exploring the Mercedes-Benz Museum. It was awesome! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1557153220650-UND7JH5GEKUHKEBHKIUR/ST2_8655.jpg Media Gallery - History of Mercedes-Benz The history of the Mercedes vehicles was pretty cool. We learned about their manufacturing of more than just land vehicles. We also were able to see tons of cars from the 1800s and on. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1557152539900-MVDWO5SXR7O2T5PLVPZ5/ST2_8649.jpg Media Gallery - History of Mercedes-Benz 2 The history of the Mercedes vehicles was pretty cool. We learned about their manufacturing of more than just land vehicles. We also were able to see tons of cars from the 1800s and on. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1557152938209-N1PLSMIUH6HIQRKVJJND/ST2_8650.jpg Media Gallery - History of Mercedes-Benz 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1557153452381-RIPOJR4UK7B43ZBX3ZN2/ST2_8658.jpg Media Gallery - The First Modern Automobile The history of the Mercedes vehicles was pretty cool. We learned about their manufacturing of more than just land vehicles. We also were able to see tons of cars from the 1800s and on. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1557153660731-E55ISXR8NQ8PE7C9G7UA/ST2_8665.jpg Media Gallery - A Rear View It’s not the rear view mirror but it still gives that good look back. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1557154590525-JIAQYT2FEWICXU0J95HG/ST2_8671.jpg Media Gallery - Racing The racecar section of the Mercedes was pretty neat. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1557154701217-RSBZDXF9Y1KDDWL2AISS/ST2_8674.jpg Media Gallery - Vroom Vroom Walking. Angles. Contours. Car photography is new for me, but it was fun. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1557154313174-DGT0T80NTM6FH7E1MNAD/ST2_8709.jpg Media Gallery - Overview Looking over parts of Stuttgart from the Chapel hill. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1557154746300-P3DETEIMD7V9WQODZYHV/ST2_8708.jpg Media Gallery - Overview 2 Houses stud the hillsides around and below the vineyards on the Chapel hill. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1557153707742-90CF8SHS14GXWS7J2YTH/ST2_8713.jpg Media Gallery - Grabkapelle This sepulcher was built in memory of Catherine Pavlovna of Russia by William I of Württemberg. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1557153366489-6XP6UHCADQNYKCY2VT8X/ST2_8716.jpg Media Gallery - Grabkapelle 2 This sepulcher was built in memory of Catherine Pavlovna of Russia by William I of Württemberg. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1557152869494-SYIOY6QKHPLL004SF6FU/ST2_8719.jpg Media Gallery - Walk Down the Path We walked down the vineyard path when we got finished checking out the Grabkapelle https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1557156993975-2XW8U390HJ574EL9BGMI/DJI_0152.jpg Media Gallery - Porsche Museum We hit up the Porsche Museum on Friday as our last excitement before heading back to the US. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1557151899952-P74X70ACVYNBQ97TOXP6/DJI_0136.jpg Media Gallery - Porsche Museum 2 We hit up the Porsche Museum on Friday as our last excitement before heading back to the US. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1557151918552-O5R7K6XI6VYNKFMO3A0Q/DJI_0128.jpg Media Gallery - Porsche Museum 3 We hit up the Porsche Museum on Friday as our last excitement before heading back to the US. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1557152079278-C34ORY0VM8MS2ZJVE1OH/DJI_0125.jpg Media Gallery - Porsche Museum 4 We hit up the Porsche Museum on Friday as our last excitement before heading back to the US. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1557152076158-YT9MM8WT7N6TIWCJA03M/DJI_0121.jpg Media Gallery - Porsche Museum 5 We hit up the Porsche Museum on Friday as our last excitement before heading back to the US. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1565778182416-AR9EW9NQK1993GE7W4M3/ST2_0002.jpg Media Gallery - Be Our Guest The road leading to the Guesthouse on the grounds at the HBB campus. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1565778084315-JWW0IKIW05TN6F8URJZM/ST2_0013.jpg Media Gallery - Jarvis Not exactly the voice behind Tony Stark’s suits but this little monkey is sidekick to a young MK. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1565778356859-FIE2OYZEO2WBUVVO4ILC/ST2_0015.jpg Media Gallery - Jarvis Again Not exactly the voice behind Tony Stark’s suits but this little monkey is sidekick to a young MK. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1565778356858-ZRCTK7EGDNQ6X1CEE8EN/ST2_9980.jpg Media Gallery - A Spiky Disposition I am not up on my tree species but something I read said this is a species of teak tree. I cannot be certain on that but I am certain I do not want to climb this kind. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1565778517502-6GDX1ITPKRA0TOUWXJTU/ST2_9997.jpg Media Gallery - Teak Seeds Seed pods of a teak tree. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1565778568560-XKSEPZL4NMO623SHSDVN/AQLX5340.jpg Media Gallery - Kuma Konda The church in Kuma Konda. The children joined us after their Sunday school ended that morning and they filled in the left side of the building, however, the right side seems pretty empty. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1565778813906-2IDT3AITFOD8A3KKVW7X/DJI_0320.jpg Media Gallery - Marketplace Many market stands have similar items for sale; produce, fish, eggs, rice, and more. Nearly every stand in this row had bags of popcorn, bottles of peanuts, and jars of peanut butter. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1566293846644-E6DLZSJIN9AOJ999VGQO/TGO_13August2019_Strayer_010.jpg Media Gallery - Breakfast At the youth camp in town, they served the teens breakfast. Here you see the fare ready to go; a chicken and veggie sandwich with some hot chocolate or coffee. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1566293849087-DXSR816XKE573LTFA15P/TGO_13August2019_Strayer_039.jpg Media Gallery - Attentive As the speaker delivered the message that morning, the teens were able to follow along with notes and take their own in the provided booklets. This camp was designed to address many issues relevant to teenagers today. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1566293995669-SG3O6KPJ5SY26GM56CWW/TGO_13August2019_Strayer_070.jpg Media Gallery - Shoes I don’t have a clue who all these shoes belong to because I don’t recall seeing any of the teens without theirs on. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1566294014339-9N6LYOQVRZDHF9GJ4CIR/TGO_13August2019_Strayer_087.jpg Media Gallery - Elaeis This type of palm, called the Elaeis (Elaeis guineensis) is the primary source of palm oil. It is native to West and Southwest Africa. source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elaeis https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1566294004802-J14FFBB7EIYZV0PDE5DO/IMG_2259.JPG Media Gallery - Reflecting Joy “To see myself in the eyes of a child is to see a me I’ve never seen before. “ https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1566663918899-L6BXTZO2KK3MH6ANEUVT/TGO_23August2019_Strayer_009.jpg Media Gallery - Through the Window Through the window shots are some of my favorite challenge shots to capture, especially when I am in the backseat and trying to shoot through the windshield while traveling near speeds of 85-90/kmh. It is fun to try and focus on the object around dirty glass, mirrors, dashboards, potholes, and other obstacles :) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1566664061532-RCTTZ22XB00VGJ3H9F6Q/TGO_23August2019_Strayer_112.jpg Media Gallery - Off to Work We Go Three children walk through a field, ready to go to work. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1566664087343-N5V3YNQKESGPHXZUXSMX/TGO_23August2019_Strayer_189.jpg Media Gallery - Toting Off the Dishes These women are carrying away the dirty dishes that were used to feed 100+ women as a conference for pastor’s wives. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1566816691499-AWB88KSHU3498MFY734N/TGO_23August2019_Strayer_019.jpg Media Gallery - Sharing The women shared with others things that are happening in their lives. Easy things, hard things, confusing things. They were then able to pray for and with each other. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1566816685553-57WY3M6PQHIIXNM0E0RX/TGO_23August2019_Strayer_043.jpg Media Gallery - Sharing 2 The women shared with others things that are happening in their lives. Easy things, hard things, confusing things. They were then able to pray for and with each other. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1566816915520-TR4KPZ94LVD5LW1Q2PET/TGO_23August2019_Strayer_059.jpg Media Gallery - Chantons The women tried to choose songs that would be something new for the ladies to learn, building up their musical “toolbox”. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1566816800001-C7SZHY2GMDJ6RU2DLSDB/TGO_23August2019_Strayer_074.jpg Media Gallery - Taking Notes One of the many women, taking a few notes on what they were learning during the conference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1566817124814-VITLQXN1QDLIJ7MEXBXR/TGO_23August2019_Strayer_164.jpg Media Gallery - Resources The women were able to purchase some resources in their local languages thanks for the provisions of the Communications Center from Tsiko. Many books aiding in family, children’s, and women’s ministry as well personal growth were available. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1566818239798-W7OBHUQRJI721LXLJ0HZ/TGO_23August2019_Strayer_335.jpg Media Gallery - Resources 2 The women were able to purchase some resources in their local languages thanks for the provisions of the Communications Center from Tsiko. Many books aiding in family, children’s, and women’s ministry as well personal growth were available. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1566818300235-YYGH485YTJNW0GI0MUJE/TGO_23August2019_Strayer_338.jpg Media Gallery - Resources 3 The women were able to purchase some resources in their local languages thanks for the provisions of the Communications Center from Tsiko. Many books aiding in family, children’s, and women’s ministry as well personal growth were available. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1566817358138-FXNNLIYRMKAK9CTKNUOV/TGO_23August2019_Strayer_180.jpg Media Gallery - Fellowship This conference allowed women to spend time learning together. They were able to connect with current or old friends as well as meet some new ones with whom they could share stories and experiences with. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1566817550792-B33I55HHRHNKE5E1E50F/TGO_23August2019_Strayer_217.jpg Media Gallery - Reading Glasses A church group decided to purchase a large number of reading glasses so that the women that needed them had them. They were able to choose the strength they needed and these ones even had design choices. The ones left over will be able to be given to their husbands if needed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1566817723204-R857LG8S0AHZ0ARG1Q6D/TGO_23August2019_Strayer_225.jpg Media Gallery - Wash Feet John 13:15 says, “I have set an example that you should wash one another’s feet.” Jesus washed His disciples’ feet and commanded they wash others. During this conference the leaders sought to serve the women this way. They washed the feet of those attending, providing a personal connection that allowed them to talk to one another. They were able to get to know one another a little better and the leaders then took time to pray for the needs and burdens the women each carried. Simple, loving service. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1566817746391-WYOAU5HHSCGZ5UF2DQXK/TGO_23August2019_Strayer_228.jpg Media Gallery - Wash Feet 2 John 13:15 says, “I have set an example that you should wash one another’s feet.” Jesus washed His disciples’ feet and commanded they wash others. During this conference the leaders sought to serve the women this way. They washed the feet of those attending, providing a personal connection that allowed them to talk to one another. They were able to get to know one another a little better and the leaders then took time to pray for the needs and burdens the women each carried. Simple, loving service. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1566817902165-LN4CFU964CCX8VQ3P6JL/TGO_23August2019_Strayer_275.jpg Media Gallery - Wash Feet 3 John 13:15 says, “I have set an example that you should wash one another’s feet.” Jesus washed His disciples’ feet and commanded they wash others. During this conference the leaders sought to serve the women this way. They washed the feet of those attending, providing a personal connection that allowed them to talk to one another. They were able to get to know one another a little better and the leaders then took time to pray for the needs and burdens the women each carried. Simple, loving service. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1566817955583-0NB1285VXQN7XS06HE32/TGO_23August2019_Strayer_315.jpg Media Gallery - Wash Feet 4 John 13:15 says, “I have set an example that you should wash one another’s feet.” Jesus washed His disciples’ feet and commanded they wash others. During this conference the leaders sought to serve the women this way. They washed the feet of those attending, providing a personal connection that allowed them to talk to one another. They were able to get to know one another a little better and the leaders then took time to pray for the needs and burdens the women each carried. Simple, loving service. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1566818107037-8VLOWN49X62YCKLPPXM4/TGO_23August2019_Strayer_326.jpg Media Gallery - Wash Feet 5 John 13:15 says, “I have set an example that you should wash one another’s feet.” Jesus washed His disciples’ feet and commanded they wash others. During this conference the leaders sought to serve the women this way. They washed the feet of those attending, providing a personal connection that allowed them to talk to one another. They were able to get to know one another a little better and the leaders then took time to pray for the needs and burdens the women each carried. Simple, loving service. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1566818083453-NGPXT2QHQ55PULNTY0AT/TGO_23August2019_Strayer_332.jpg Media Gallery - Wash Feet 6 John 13:15 says, “I have set an example that you should wash one another’s feet.” Jesus washed His disciples’ feet and commanded they wash others. During this conference the leaders sought to serve the women this way. They washed the feet of those attending, providing a personal connection that allowed them to talk to one another. They were able to get to know one another a little better and the leaders then took time to pray for the needs and burdens the women each carried. Simple, loving service. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1566818498023-UNA0HOP6H47WRWS7IDZ1/TGO_23August2019_Strayer_355.jpg Media Gallery - Wash Feet 7 John 13:15 says, “I have set an example that you should wash one another’s feet.” Jesus washed His disciples’ feet and commanded they wash others. During this conference the leaders sought to serve the women this way. They washed the feet of those attending, providing a personal connection that allowed them to talk to one another. They were able to get to know one another a little better and the leaders then took time to pray for the needs and burdens the women each carried. Simple, loving service. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1566818490414-WCX8HJOLCZ62VDFLE0YJ/TGO_23August2019_Strayer_359.jpg Media Gallery - Wash Feet 8 John 13:15 says, “I have set an example that you should wash one another’s feet.” Jesus washed His disciples’ feet and commanded they wash others. During this conference the leaders sought to serve the women this way. They washed the feet of those attending, providing a personal connection that allowed them to talk to one another. They were able to get to know one another a little better and the leaders then took time to pray for the needs and burdens the women each carried. Simple, loving service. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1568293684797-66JRPM2AVXN5V9TKXU94/TGO_2September2019_Strayer_029.jpg Media Gallery - Reading the Word Reading the Word is an important and key principle in the Christian schools in Togo. The directors came together to hear and discuss how they can disciple their teachers who will in turn work to disciple their students to make them better citizens of their country as well as stronger Christians. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1568293616659-F569I7TAU634EDSSI7XG/TGO_2September2019_Strayer_031.jpg Media Gallery - Leadership When leaders get together to discuss the Word and talk strategy, amazing things happen. I am excited to see what God will do in their schools this year as they resolve to disciple intentionally. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1568293680216-GLOU76NLVR8Z37APEVCT/TGO_2September2019_Strayer_039.jpg Media Gallery - Noteworthy "The biggest room in the world is the room for improvement." When leaders take notes, it encourages me to see their humility and desire to grow. They do not think that they have arrived, they are merely hungry to become something MORE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1568293893036-8E6OTJOMJ5RZ2FQFQXOJ/TGO_2September2019_Strayer_084.jpg Media Gallery - Make a Plan The directors were told to discuss how they plan to implement some intentional discipleship time with their teachers each week. The outcomes were similar, yet different, based on scheduling and thoughts on how to go through the materials. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1568293923205-LFZ1Y1B1R25R9U3VMAQ7/TGO_2September2019_Strayer_085.jpg Media Gallery - Make a Plan 2 The directors were told to discuss how they plan to implement some intentional discipleship time with their teachers each week. The outcomes were similar, yet different, based on scheduling and thoughts on how to go through the materials. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1568294069641-K2PVCVDK27L6MEPTCUF5/TGO_2September2019_Strayer_098.jpg Media Gallery - Make a Plan 3 The directors were told to discuss how they plan to implement some intentional discipleship time with their teachers each week. The outcomes were similar, yet different, based on scheduling and thoughts on how to go through the materials. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1568296330049-ID7FZEQ7G4T14EDKXQ93/TGO_9September2019_Strayer_018.jpg Media Gallery - Punching the Bindings Writing in braille requires a heavier weight of paper so the instruments do not pierce through the paper. It is difficult and somewhat expensive to find paper that works but once we have purchased it, the staff members get to work preparing it for our students’ textbooks. Here they are punching the holes so that it can be bound into notebooks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1568296278983-0EDRDX08FQWOWLS1MDFE/TGO_9September2019_Strayer_026.jpg Media Gallery - Assembling the Books Writing in braille requires a heavier weight of paper so the instruments do not pierce through the paper. It is difficult and somewhat expensive to find paper that works but once we have purchased it, the staff members get to work preparing it for our students’ textbooks. These two are counting the pages and inserting the plastic binding rings through them while adding the front and back covers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1568296436155-IW10LMKYGL52EFLO6OJ6/TGO_9September2019_Strayer_030.jpg Media Gallery - Make a Seat After schooling is over at Village of Light, the students have an option to continue in “atelier” (French for workshop"). This allows the students to learn a trade to earn some money. This young man, who has some sight, is weaving a bench to fill an order. A bench like this requires 2.5-3 days of work to complete. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1568296534072-DTQ0QTOSN6BXWN73NWF9/TGO_9September2019_Strayer_032.jpg Media Gallery - Make a Seat 2 After schooling is over at Village of Light, the students have an option to continue in “atelier” (French for workshop"). This allows the students to learn a trade to earn some money. This young man, who has some sight, is weaving a bench to fill an order. A bench like this requires 2.5-3 days of work to complete. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1568296637400-VXOTBXBSJ2A2AENDLWQT/TGO_10September2019_Strayer_029.jpg Media Gallery - Photo de Groupe They found it quite hilarious when we came and began taking photos and videos of the pots on the clay ovens in the cooking area. These people are either family members of patients (or patients themselves) receiving care at the hospital. While the hospital can provide health care, it is limited in providing food and laundry services so family members are able to sleep, cook, and do laundry in adjoining facilities while remaining at the hospital. Before I left, I asked them if I could take a group photo of them. They happily agreed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1568296671328-6K0O8ZV06RX8UN5MLLU9/TGO_11September2019_Strayer_037.jpg Media Gallery - Photo Ready This little guy (whose name I had hard enough time trying to pronounce so I will not even attempt to spell it) was racing his older brother around outside the hospital. Their parents were inside receiving medical care and they were looking to have a little fun. When I brought my camera out to film some of the surroundings, they came over and got ready for some photos. I motioned for this guy to take a turn and he instantly cracked his little smile and threw up a thumb. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1568296878855-XY1CF04DNZ4DKPML9ZUK/TGO_11September2019_Strayer_042.jpg Media Gallery - Pediatric Care Chantal (left) is a PA who is doing an amazing job! She visited with 4 patients, translating for our visiting post-partum nurse Susan (right) with each case. After her 4 visits, she went to fill out their charts with updates while discussing details of other patients with other physicians who were equally as busy in the adult wards. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1568296778288-3D59VHELLLQ2MH70IX0J/TGO_11September2019_Strayer_069.jpg Media Gallery - X-Ray Reading Chantal (right) discusses an x-ray of a pediatric patient with Dr. Richards, a short-term physician. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1568296984396-EWF77QFHQ6DKXRTET9YL/TGO_11September2019_Strayer_076.jpg Media Gallery - Please, No This little guy was very displeased as the PA tried to check his vitals. Every time she got near or touched him he would cry and as soon as she stopped, so did he. He knew that stethoscope would be cold and he was not a fan. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1568297119786-RBH1OZHF5B712X809AKU/TGO_11September2019_Strayer_100.jpg Media Gallery - Seeing Baby Dr. Gayle (foreground) consults with short-term ultrasound tech, Ray (whose arm is visible on the machine) as he performed an ultrasound for this new mom. She found out she was 9 weeks and 4 days along, the baby had two arms, two legs, a strong heartbeat, and seemed to be developing healthily and normally. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1568297160276-UNBIOO61ROZ3MGSTIKM8/TGO_11September2019_Strayer_106.jpg Media Gallery - Lunchtime Little Abel (pronounced Ah-bell in French) was born 11 weeks premature. His mother told me he was born in the beginning of August at just 29 weeks. The days I met him, he was still not at the projected due date (just shy of his 35 week mark). She took him out gently, cradled him in her arm and gave him his seemingly huge bottle. She was more than happy to permit me to photograph the two of them. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570357366484-TG2K9A4Q40SBW14U63M2/TGO_24September2019_Strayer_037.jpg Media Gallery - Rebuilt March 12, 2019 a fire started in the cuisine (kitchen) building at the Village of Light School for the Blind. The building was almost completely destroyed. September 14, 2019 the staff was able to have a ribbon cutting ceremony for the new finished cuisine just in time for students to come the following Monday. God provided workers and materials in order to complete this project on time so that the students attending VoL for the 2019-2020 school year would be able to be fed easily from this facility. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1568625527633-678E4UE9X0G7MTLVQP9P/TGO_13September2019_Strayer_051.jpg Media Gallery - Sing Praise The sounds of sung praises and thanksgiving filled the room as staff members gathered for the ribbon cutting ceremony on Sept. 14, 2019 for the new cuisine. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1568625983203-3SGDILXQ2YBDW360BA74/TGO_13September2019_Strayer_085.jpg Media Gallery - Ribbon March 12, 2019 a fire started in the cuisine (kitchen) building at the Village of Light School for the Blind. The building was almost completely destroyed. September 14, 2019 the staff was able to have a ribbon cutting ceremony for the new finished cuisine just in time for students to come the following Monday. God provided workers and materials in order to complete this project on time so that the students attending VoL for the 2019-2020 school year would be able to be fed easily from this facility. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1568627117562-RXBHTWL4ME8U3JNKWI0Z/TGO_13September2019_Strayer_089.jpg Media Gallery - Cutting the Ribbon March 12, 2019 a fire started in the cuisine (kitchen) building at the Village of Light School for the Blind. The building was almost completely destroyed. September 14, 2019 the staff was able to have a ribbon cutting ceremony for the new finished cuisine just in time for students to come the following Monday. God provided workers and materials in order to complete this project on time so that the students attending VoL for the 2019-2020 school year would be able to be fed easily from this facility. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1568627432265-JK5TKY1YCV409D5NH5UR/TGO_13September2019_Strayer_098.jpg Media Gallery - Joy March 12, 2019 a fire started in the cuisine (kitchen) building at the Village of Light School for the Blind. The building was almost completely destroyed. September 14, 2019 the staff was able to have a ribbon cutting ceremony for the new finished cuisine just in time for students to come the following Monday. God provided workers and materials in order to complete this project on time so that the students attending VoL for the 2019-2020 school year would be able to be fed easily from this facility. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1568630303731-WXGVPF4P189LFKXCJ7SF/TGO_13September2019_Strayer_101.jpg Media Gallery - Clearing The ground outside of the cuisine has been grown up with brush and trees. Since the fire and the rebuild of the cuisine it has been decided that the land would be cleared so that the cuisine employees can have some land for gardening. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1568630422930-AN5781GD65K9XA2U29JC/TGO_14September2019_Strayer_057.jpg Media Gallery - Choose Carefully Teams are formed in churches surrounding several key cities in Togo. These cities are split into regions and the neighboring towns send their teams to a host church to participate in Bible quizzing. It consists of two types of competition. First is a round of multiple choice, where a question and answers are read aloud, the quizzers choice and answer, and reveal when instructed. Points are awarded for correct answers to the team of that quizzer. Second is a speed round. A question is read aloud and when a participant believes he/she knows the answer, he/she buzzes in and is allowed to answer. Correct answers are rewarded points while incorrect answers subtract points. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570357780696-QB7MQ3F7SPSR4QD817ED/TGO_24September2019_Strayer_074.jpg Media Gallery - Lunch is Served Rice is placed in pots and other covered dishes around the tables. Each place setting also includes containers for drinks and sauces. The students receive a lunch of rice with a sauce, typically made with oil, spices, pima peppers, and fish. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570357379249-P6ETGZXH6QXGZRJWVMXC/TGO_24September2019_Strayer_050.jpg Media Gallery - Cooking The new kitchen building on the campus is serving the cooks and students well. Everyday at lunchtime the kitchens are filled with the aromas of wood fires and cooking sauces. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1568632313586-EIWYN6ND1U0U74CW6XIW/TGO_14September2019_Strayer_075.jpg Media Gallery - Scoring Teams are formed in churches surrounding several key cities in Togo. These cities are split into regions and the neighboring towns send their teams to a host church to participate in Bible quizzing. It consists of two types of competition. First is a round of multiple choice, where a question and answers are read aloud, the quizzers choice and answer, and reveal when instructed. Points are awarded for correct answers to the team of that quizzer. Second is a speed round. A question is read aloud and when a participant believes he/she knows the answer, he/she buzzes in and is allowed to answer. Correct answers are rewarded points while incorrect answers subtract points. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1568632247084-YIAEQPVE68GHP0R0HWB6/TGO_14September2019_Strayer_082.jpg Media Gallery - La Bonne Réponse Teams are formed in churches surrounding several key cities in Togo. These cities are split into regions and the neighboring towns send their teams to a host church to participate in Bible quizzing. It consists of two types of competition. First is a round of multiple choice, where a question and answers are read aloud, the quizzers choice and answer, and reveal when instructed. Points are awarded for correct answers to the team of that quizzer. Second is a speed round. A question is read aloud and when a participant believes he/she knows the answer, he/she buzzes in and is allowed to answer. Correct answers are rewarded points while incorrect answers subtract points. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1568632509655-XXGT5KKF6THS0D6I081A/TGO_14September2019_Strayer_224.jpg Media Gallery - Thinking Teams are formed in churches surrounding several key cities in Togo. These cities are split into regions and the neighboring towns send their teams to a host church to participate in Bible quizzing. It consists of two types of competition. First is a round of multiple choice, where a question and answers are read aloud, the quizzers choice and answer, and reveal when instructed. Points are awarded for correct answers to the team of that quizzer. Second is a speed round. A question is read aloud and when a participant believes he/she knows the answer, he/she buzzes in and is allowed to answer. Correct answers are rewarded points while incorrect answers subtract points. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1568632486776-I5MLLDI2HFNSIEU2CCB1/TGO_14September2019_Strayer_270.jpg Media Gallery - Celebrating Victories Teams are formed in churches surrounding several key cities in Togo. These cities are split into regions and the neighboring towns send their teams to a host church to participate in Bible quizzing. It consists of two types of competition. First is a round of multiple choice, where a question and answers are read aloud, the quizzers choice and answer, and reveal when instructed. Points are awarded for correct answers to the team of that quizzer. Second is a speed round. A question is read aloud and when a participant believes he/she knows the answer, he/she buzzes in and is allowed to answer. Correct answers are rewarded points while incorrect answers subtract points. The teams sitting in the benches below the active quizzers cheer on their teammates between rounds. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1568632693032-MIVPDC40ZWORLYDZ92B3/TGO_14September2019_Strayer_355.jpg Media Gallery - Quizzer of the Year Teams are formed in churches surrounding several key cities in Togo. These cities are split into regions and the neighboring towns send their teams to a host church to participate in Bible quizzing. It consists of two types of competition. First is a round of multiple choice, where a question and answers are read aloud, the quizzers choice and answer, and reveal when instructed. Points are awarded for correct answers to the team of that quizzer. Second is a speed round. A question is read aloud and when a participant believes he/she knows the answer, he/she buzzes in and is allowed to answer. Correct answers are rewarded points while incorrect answers subtract points. One quizzer will earn more points for his/her team than the rest. This participant is named “quizzer of the year” and receives special gifts for his/her accomplishment. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1568632749516-TXAOTUI7VZDKONOYMNZZ/TGO_14September2019_Strayer_380.jpg Media Gallery - The Victors Teams are formed in churches surrounding several key cities in Togo. These cities are split into regions and the neighboring towns send their teams to a host church to participate in Bible quizzing. It consists of two types of competition. First is a round of multiple choice, where a question and answers are read aloud, the quizzers choice and answer, and reveal when instructed. Points are awarded for correct answers to the team of that quizzer. Second is a speed round. A question is read aloud and when a participant believes he/she knows the answer, he/she buzzes in and is allowed to answer. Correct answers are rewarded points while incorrect answers subtract points. At the end of the day, only one team will have earned enough points to be the winners. This year it was the team from Kpegelenou. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570355737505-ZP6RCX63OCHJHBB5CHEN/TGO_21September2019_Strayer_016.jpg Media Gallery - Prions Women bow for prayer during a conference at a local church. The theme was the armor of God. This women’s conference was led by a Togolese woman and taught entirely in the local lagugage, Ewe. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570355780271-SJBZWSFWFICS4LFCYWW8/TGO_21September2019_Strayer_044.jpg Media Gallery - La Parole de Dieu When the women were asked to read a portion of the Scripture during the women’s conference in Kpalime they were usually following along on their own while another woman read the passage aloud for those that either did not have a Bible or do not read well. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570355928379-FB5K3W6NA4D38X4D25H3/TGO_21September2019_Strayer_046.jpg Media Gallery - Peeking While the women paid attention to the speaker, this child was peeking behind, perhaps enviously, at another child sound asleep on his bench. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570355976917-VW879Y9PA2N6J9H2RFAO/TGO_21September2019_Strayer_055.jpg Media Gallery - Happiness I do not yet understand much Ewe. The words I do understand did not help me in this setting. However, at one point, the teacher instructed the women to have a quick discussion about the lesson. I am not sure what it was about but nearly every woman was talking about it with a big smile or a laugh. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570356076550-5MJX4UIAGD2DHY5H3283/TGO_21September2019_Strayer_093.jpg Media Gallery - Pit Stop Gas stations can be found in many areas in the cities. However, it is most common to see small wooden stands like this on the side of the road. These stands hold old gin bottles that have been refilled with gasoline for motos. The stands are technically illegal, but that does not stop people from setting them up or buying from them. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570356106376-RKV0M55LRWR2UJQ8MUC3/TGO_21September2019_Strayer_094.jpg Media Gallery - The Road Home This road leads toward my house. After the women’s conference, my neighbor and I decided to begin walking home since her husband was running a bit behind schedule to pick us up. The street was rather busy that day, with shops, people walking to this place or that, and the typical vehicle traffic. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570356865085-MECG5WH4Z0WE90ZHOY0V/TGO_21September2019_Strayer_098.jpg Media Gallery - Rearview This woman with her child was passing by. I decided I wanted to take a photo but I did not want to make it obvious, so I turned it around and quickly snapped a shot just over my shoulder while still keeping my eyes in front of me. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570357212926-76RJN5CM1ILHWKT9Z0DW/TGO_24September2019_Strayer_025.jpg Media Gallery - Tilapia The type of fish used in the aquaponics system is tilapia. When the fish reach a harvesting size, they are removed from their tanks, weighed, and sorted into orders to be sold and eaten. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570356923864-1KJOEQ8VFAHQT31GFAFN/TGO_24September2019_Strayer_024.jpg Media Gallery - Counting Our aquaponics system requires fish to continue functioning properly. The fish nourish the plants and vice versa. Buying new fish requires sorting the babies out by size so they can be properly fed. The counting also ensures that number of fish paid for equals the number of fish received. Here, the men are counting fish in groups while another writes the numbers down on the counter to be totaled later. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570357776153-J445PK2ZS2C20OKYJEQV/TGO_24September2019_Strayer_084.jpg Media Gallery - Counting 2 The men work on counting the last groups of fish in the barrel so they can integrate them into the aquaponics system. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570357860133-TX69JHMDCQ1BGJQ8UH7S/TGO_3October2019_Strayer_005.jpg Media Gallery - Fishing in Aného Groups of men gather on the shoreline. Another group of men takes a boat into the surf. The fish net is taken out on the boat and released into the ocean. Over time the men on shore grab the rope and heave while walking backwards toward an anchor point, in this case a tree. When the net comes to shore it is emptied out and the catch is sold along the beach or the road. The vendors are usually women or teenagers that carry the catches in large metal bowls on their heads. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570357868093-QYFOI6NM0TLHSDMS8T8V/TGO_3October2019_Strayer_017.jpg Media Gallery - Fishing in Aného 2 Groups of men gather on the shoreline. Another group of men takes a boat into the surf. The fish net is taken out on the boat and released into the ocean. Over time the men on shore grab the rope and heave while walking backwards toward an anchor point, in this case a tree. When the net comes to shore it is emptied out and the catch is sold along the beach or the road. The vendors are usually women or teenagers that carry the catches in large metal bowls on their heads. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570357992444-GTQOUEES8LCK9ZTG7H2R/TGO_3October2019_Strayer_025-2.jpg Media Gallery - Fishing in Aného 3 Groups of men gather on the shoreline. Another group of men takes a boat into the surf. The fish net is taken out on the boat and released into the ocean. Over time the men on shore grab the rope and heave while walking backwards toward an anchor point, in this case a tree. When the net comes to shore it is emptied out and the catch is sold along the beach or the road. The vendors are usually women or teenagers that carry the catches in large metal bowls on their heads. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570358157234-GVUPHRNRD142FZ3GM4P3/TGO_3October2019_Strayer_028.jpg Media Gallery - Fishing in Aného 4 Groups of men gather on the shoreline. Another group of men takes a boat into the surf. The fish net is taken out on the boat and released into the ocean. Over time the men on shore grab the rope and heave while walking backwards toward an anchor point, in this case a tree. When the net comes to shore it is emptied out and the catch is sold along the beach or the road. The vendors are usually women or teenagers that carry the catches in large metal bowls on their heads. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570358156710-G940UQ7YKA19HW7ZYMB5/TGO_3October2019_Strayer_034.jpg Media Gallery - Fishing in Aného 5 Groups of men gather on the shoreline. Another group of men takes a boat into the surf. The fish net is taken out on the boat and released into the ocean. Over time the men on shore grab the rope and heave while walking backwards toward an anchor point, in this case a tree. When the net comes to shore it is emptied out and the catch is sold along the beach or the road. The vendors are usually women or teenagers that carry the catches in large metal bowls on their heads. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570358232337-A8664OWEE214XXUVIX9W/TGO_3October2019_Strayer_037-2.jpg Media Gallery - Fishing in Aného 6 Groups of men gather on the shoreline. Another group of men takes a boat into the surf. The fish net is taken out on the boat and released into the ocean. Over time the men on shore grab the rope and heave while walking backwards toward an anchor point, in this case a tree. When the net comes to shore it is emptied out and the catch is sold along the beach or the road. The vendors are usually women or teenagers that carry the catches in large metal bowls on their heads. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1571651188452-QP4LOWGAS5G1H9GUXGUQ/TGO_15October2019_Strayer_003.JPG Media Gallery - Reading and Writing Students take time with their teacher to read and write. The teacher and the student on the left are reading the Gospel of Mark while the student on the right is writing. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1571651334424-7768ONL60WXJBSGK4VKN/TGO_18October2019_Strayer_011.jpg Media Gallery - Kodzo Kodzo is practicing his writing in his kindergarten class. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1571651356613-JQJHJZPP18M6ROAOOLQ6/TGO_18October2019_Strayer_023.jpg Media Gallery - Learning to Read Our newest students need to learn to read Braille before anything else. In order to learn without wasting paper, they begin to train their hands to “read” the bumps by making letters with wooden blocks and stones. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1571651451872-Y19AZE08YRRDLK3BTI54/TGO_18October2019_Strayer_037.jpg Media Gallery - ?siht daer uoy naC The title of this picture gives you a slight, yet still incomplete idea of what is is like to write in Brailles. Writing in Braille requires 3 “backwards” operations from writing in standard systems. 1. The paper is to be read from the front. The stylus must make the indentations though from the back. Thus, the paper must be flipped over and “written on” from the backside of it. (Braille can only use one side of every sheet of paper). 2. Instead of writing in the reading direction (left to right, in French), the students must learn to write from right to left. 3. Students will read the letters correctly from left to right but in order to do this, remember the paper is flipped around. This means that the letters they write must be written backwards as well so they can be read correctly. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1571651410517-TEH96J575753NJRS5TC8/TGO_18October2019_Strayer_057.jpg Media Gallery - Help Me Do It Just like one must learn to hold a pencil in the primary grade levels, blind students must learn to hold a stylus and use it properly. Here, the teacher is helping this student to put her fingers in the right spots and apply proper pressure to the paper to create the letters needed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1571651469808-OAGDXVASWHQFCD3L6TJY/TGO_18October2019_Strayer_069.jpg Media Gallery - Focus Writing in Braille, especially when starting, is a task that requires a lot of focus and attention. It can be very easy to mess up and unlike with pencil and paper, there is no erasing or writing over a mistake. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1571651520692-DDAWIZAA4ZTDM3TKDDF8/TGO_18October2019_Strayer_087.jpg Media Gallery - Reading is Tiring Sometimes learning your alphabet can be exhausting. . .or just boring. This student began to tire of repeating, “un, cinq, h” over and over while committing to memory his alphabet in Braille. So, he started to lay his head down on each dot instead of just his hands. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1571651595335-5HAO1SUS7ISDXDFRC2C7/TGO_18October2019_Strayer_124.jpg Media Gallery - Big Kindergarteners When a new student arrives at Village of Light School for the Blind they are put into a class. If the students already read and write in Braille, they are placed in the correct grade. If they do not yet know how to read and write in Braille, they must first be placed in the kindergarten level to learn these important skills before they are then placed in their correct grade. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1571651659092-P1H4GWLUFZN7SG5IZ7AY/TGO_18October2019_Strayer_141.jpg Media Gallery - Smile This little chatterbox got himself in a good deal of trouble during class because he just really likes to talk, even when he’s supposed to be quiet. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1571651674645-YAM3QKOLT875DVC9XAOA/TGO_18October2019_Strayer_154.jpg Media Gallery - Sensory Art Play Dough provides an excellent sensory method for the students to exercise their creativity. The students were each given a ball of dough and told to create bowls, spoons, cups, or other dishes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1571651754440-TKURVJNZB8K4HXOLKT1G/TGO_18October2019_Strayer_163.jpg Media Gallery - Sensory Art 2 Play Dough provides an excellent sensory method for the students to exercise their creativity. The students were each given a ball of dough and told to create bowls, spoons, cups, or other dishes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1571651762628-KL18CXFBKQDSVAU0CPRU/TGO_18October2019_Strayer_164.jpg Media Gallery - Sensory Art 3 Play Dough provides an excellent sensory method for the students to exercise their creativity. The students were each given a ball of dough and told to create bowls, spoons, cups, or other dishes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1571651820450-HTU0D7E2CGDAYL4KDRP6/TGO_18October2019_Strayer_203.jpg Media Gallery - Stylus A Braille stylus is a metal stylus with a woooden or plastic grip. This tool has a blunted, rounded tip that presses the paper into the desired dot of the cell when pressure is applied. Students learn to properly hold a stylus when learning to write in Braille just as any sighted student is taught to hold a pencil when writing in standard system. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1571651835907-STG6ZFM1V95JPFO94SKR/TGO_18October2019_Strayer_225.jpg Media Gallery - Ready to Learn Our students take their seats in desks like these, ready to learn what the teacher plans to teach for the day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1571831452146-NIL2A0HUXUQN928QYFVL/TGO_22October2019_Strayer_051.jpg Media Gallery - Learning to Sign Liz Oritz has been living in Togo, West Africa for just over 1 year now. She has been attending a school in Amou Oblo where she is teaching Sign Language to the students. Liz began teaching the students Sign because there is a student in the class who is deaf. His name is Jonas and there is no option for him to attend a school that can accommodate his needs at this time. In the coming years, Liz is praying that doors will be opened for a deaf ministry in this area of Togo to reach more children like Jonas with both education and knowledge of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1571831459403-K4R627F5FD3BBRWZZNV7/TGO_22October2019_Strayer_060.jpg Media Gallery - Rouge Students were learning to sign the color ‘red’ - ‘rouge’ in French. The students enjoy learning these signs and showing them to the teacher. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1571900610051-MRSR7KMRU0GGEGFX7HMH/TGO_23October2019_Strayer_016.jpg Media Gallery - Group Assignment Five men studying at the Bible Institute in Kpalime, Togo are working together on a group assignment. Their current class this week is the Old Testament. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1571900578769-BXKE9BCNQ18E7FJAHJAB/TGO_23October2019_Strayer_018.jpg Media Gallery - Reference When studying the Bible, it is best to continually go back to the Bible for clarification and direction. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1571900680982-A9B8D9P7IYKWNHFJ19KE/TGO_23October2019_Strayer_023.jpg Media Gallery - Read, Write, Repeat The table was covered in resource and guide books as the students sought to answer each question of the assignment. Context New Testament usage Fulfillment in Christ Application https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1571900704011-9013SMNNUERLMCW9BOCA/TGO_23October2019_Strayer_044.jpg Media Gallery - Take Notes During the group assignment, each student took his own notes in order to come back to them in the future. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1572866372537-UA3ZTHPFVHVIAW8CF50R/TGO_25October2019_Strayer_042.jpg Media Gallery - Catching the Big One Fish harvest happens about once a month for our aquaponics system. This time around we had to fish out 3 tanks. Our catch of the day was this 1kg (2.2lb) monster. Agbeko was pretty pleased with himself for finally getting him out. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1572866505826-QJWT6PLE6DPXW9EZZVPA/TGO_25October2019_Strayer_063.jpg Media Gallery - Fishing The fish are pushed to the end of one tank using a mesh covered PVC pipe frame. That frame joins a mesh covered rebar frame to keep the fish from swimming back into the tank. Two guys sit and hold the frames while 2 others use the nets to catch the fish and sort them for weighing. The fish are sold to local customers and the proceeds help support the school for the blind and aquaponics system. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1572866524935-2HQY78YV0FOI9OSDVQNK/TGO_25October2019_Strayer_089.jpg Media Gallery - Laughter in Learning Some of our students were being taught about trees and how the Togolese use different parts of them. Bertan asked about the palm nuts. The students said that the oil taken from the palm nuts was used to make a classic red sauce which the students often have for lunch. When Bertan explained that he did not care for this classic sauce, the students could not help but to laugh. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1572866603922-JB3HHB9BGUWD7RBS9FHG/TGO_25October2019_Strayer_112.jpg Media Gallery - Outdoor Classroom Bertan loves to take his students outside to learn. Even though they cannot see what he is talking about, they are able to feel and smell things. Bertan takes time to explain things about nature to his students in order to get them outside of the classroom. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1572868343078-W0EU71CMJLNXRI7FALBW/TGO_26October2019_Strayer_421.jpg Media Gallery - Long Bubble We celebrated our kiddos here by having a carnival for them. Afterwards we fired up our soft serve ice cream machine for a cool treat and made some huge bubbles too! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1572868296703-11L38V3QJOAL0T28P3ON/TGO_26October2019_Strayer_435.jpg Media Gallery - Pop Goes the Bubble We celebrated our kiddos here by having a carnival for them. Afterwards we fired up our soft serve ice cream machine for a cool treat and made some huge bubbles too! Somebody popped this one before I could get a shot off of her happy face! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1572868469626-BHMQLKWW2O897L8Y6MMK/TGO_26October2019_Strayer_464.jpg Media Gallery - We Like Big Bubbles We celebrated our kiddos here by having a carnival for them. Afterwards we fired up our soft serve ice cream machine for a cool treat and made some huge bubbles too! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1572868422389-CG9PN32IF1H7P1S2GMF2/TGO_26October2019_Strayer_493.jpg Media Gallery - We Like Big Bubbles 2 We celebrated our kiddos here by having a carnival for them. Afterwards we fired up our soft serve ice cream machine for a cool treat and made some huge bubbles too! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1572869189129-OD5YUYQXTVYV5UC2YI6X/TGO_26October2019_Strayer_579.jpg Media Gallery - Cascade de Kpime The Kpime Waterfall is flowing! This waterfall flows from a reservoir and is a nice way to cool off on a hot day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1572872228319-3RUV6MWJA4OXK5T1A7PV/TGO_30October2019_Strayer_046.jpg Media Gallery - Teach Women, Reach Africa You can learn more about the ministry Abra is involved with here in Togo by visiting the “Insta Stories” tab of this website and clicking on the blog post of the same title as this image. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1574071117941-2LZ8J35NS98ZBO5726O5/TGO_10November2019_Strayer_030-2.jpg Media Gallery - Hey There This little guy spent part of his Sunday stretched over the entrance ramp pushing the door slowly shut. It’s a heavy metal door and his arms are short so it didn’t move much but he was determined to keep it away from him because when I pushed it back open, he would push it back immediately. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1574071110246-C9QEFJ5JAQ0LSGVJRD1H/TGO_10November2019_Strayer_038-2.jpg Media Gallery - From the Hip She was very intrigued by seeing herself on the review screen and she also wanted to touch all the buttons on the back. Even though she was eating up the last bit of a fried dough ball, I let her push a few buttons. What’s a little camera wipe down after some grease and saliva covered curiosity? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1574071169765-VBJ2GVVK9HVGNQ31MUPG/TGO_10November2019_Strayer_039-2.jpg Media Gallery - From the Hip 2 Just a little tighter shot from the hip https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1574072217051-0CSPSVZT0RQU3ZET8V7V/TGO_11November2019_Strayer_018.jpg Media Gallery - Shooting with Stanley Stanley Leary is a consulting visual storyteller. Working with HBB on a renovation and construction project, he sits with Dr. Michael Gayle and learns what drove him into the medical missions field. To learn more about Stanley you can visit his website. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1574072531892-38QGG2PCWYOJOFEGMT6A/TGO_12November2019_Strayer_002.jpg Media Gallery - Shooting with Stanley 2 Stanley Leary spends a few minutes shooting in the current temporary patient housing at HBB. This woman was doing her dishes and found it rather comical that this white man wanted to film her doing that. To learn more about Stanley Leary you can visit his website. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1574072704092-INYG5H4NUBJ1AV63XU3P/TGO_12November2019_Strayer_020-3.jpg Media Gallery - The Power Man He tells me he can kill the rain. As the construction is in full swing, rain can sometimes really mess up the work day. The Togolese invite “The Power Man” to come and ward off the rain. How does he do it? He tells me that if it looks like it will rain, he just looks at the sky and says, “No!”, and it does not rain. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1574072912995-DTAXJWZA7P2J24U49PE0/TGO_12November2019_Strayer_029.jpg Media Gallery - Building Forms Construction teams have been working busily to finish constructing 4 new temporary patient family housing units at Hôpital Baptiste Biblique (HBB) in Tsiko, Togo. HBB is unable to provide laundry or food services for current patients, therefore, they have provided these buildings for the patients’ family members - free of charge - to cover those needs. You can read more about HBB’s ministry here. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1574073100311-LHU5YQU5KR6N9EOCOIEZ/TGO_12November2019_Strayer_055-2.jpg Media Gallery - Recovery A recent amputee patient takes a seat after a strenuous physical therapy session. Learning how to do what used to be easy and natural with one less limb can be both difficult and frustrating. Thankfully we have a visiting physical therapist here to help this man regain his mobility and independence. Are you interested in helping out in medical missions? Check out the opportunities available with ABWE! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1574078634812-XXDWEBV3B4HERM9Z7FQW/TGO_14November2019_Strayer_087-2.jpg Media Gallery - Sleeping in the NICU At Hôpital Baptiste Biblique (HBB) the nurse’s station doubles are the NICU. Currently, HBB is working to renovate, update, and increase the size of their facilities in order to more easily facilitate taking care of all of our patients like the babies in the NICU. To give toward this project, click here. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1574085036539-1NZ04A7YORURME9T0YFH/TGO_16November2019_Strayer_034.jpg Media Gallery - Artisan's Hands Expedit is a tour guide and natural painter. With a knowledge of botany, he leads guests down certain paths on the Kouma mountain. Along the way, he introduces them to new plants. Some of those plants he simply shows because of their functionality or use, others he shows for their purposes in cooking, and yet others he shows for their use of color. Expedit uses these natural colors to create vibrant depictions of African scenes to sell in order to support his family. Pictured; the achiote pod. The red seeds inside produce a vibrant orange-red color. Achiote is also known as the lip stick plant because many women use the color as make-up. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1574087619082-9OSHYQKHBY6U4JM0A8UG/TGO_16November2019_Strayer_047.jpg Media Gallery - Teak Red Expedit is a tour guide and natural painter. With a knowledge of botany, he leads guests down certain paths on the Kouma mountain. Along the way, he introduces them to new plants. Some of those plants he simply shows because of their functionality or use, others he shows for their purposes in cooking, and yet others he shows for their use of color. Expedit uses these natural colors to create vibrant depictions of African scenes to sell in order to support his family. Pictured: a ground teak leaf which produces a reddish brown color. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1574088044551-5WT2GO1V44RSPDAWQVEI/TGO_16November2019_Strayer_089.jpg Media Gallery - Barking up the Right Tree Expedit is a tour guide and natural painter. With a knowledge of botany, he leads guests down certain paths on the Kouma mountain. Along the way, he introduces them to new plants. Some of those plants he simply shows because of their functionality or use, others he shows for their purposes in cooking, and yet others he shows for their use of color. Expedit uses these natural colors to create vibrant depictions of African scenes to sell in order to support his family. Pictured: Expedit cuts a rectangular piece of bark off a tree to get the rich golden hue of Madagascar Yellow. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1574089125043-0QG31WHQE7KB24SH3FYA/TGO_16November2019_Strayer_098.jpg Media Gallery - Madagascar Yellow Expedit is a tour guide and natural painter. With a knowledge of botany, he leads guests down certain paths on the Kouma mountain. Along the way, he introduces them to new plants. Some of those plants he simply shows because of their functionality or use, others he shows for their purposes in cooking, and yet others he shows for their use of color. Expedit uses these natural colors to create vibrant depictions of African scenes to sell in order to support his family. Pictured: the underside of a piece of tree bark. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1574089153401-WDWQB7O3QIJ7AD19VW6X/TGO_16November2019_Strayer_190.jpg Media Gallery - Wet Stone Expedit is a tour guide and natural painter. With a knowledge of botany, he leads guests down certain paths on the Kouma mountain. Along the way, he introduces them to new plants. Some of those plants he simply shows because of their functionality or use, others he shows for their purposes in cooking, and yet others he shows for their use of color. Expedit uses these natural colors to create vibrant depictions of African scenes to sell in order to support his family. Pictured: Expedit wets a stone to prepared making natural pigments from other rocks. First he wets the stone, then he uses friction to make colors from other rocks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1574089935565-JUJ5INUHTV8VJZZCTB8H/TGO_16November2019_Strayer_206.jpg Media Gallery - Watercolor Expedit is a tour guide and natural painter. With a knowledge of botany, he leads guests down certain paths on the Kouma mountain. Along the way, he introduces them to new plants. Some of those plants he simply shows because of their functionality or use, others he shows for their purposes in cooking, and yet others he shows for their use of color. Expedit uses these natural colors to create vibrant depictions of African scenes to sell in order to support his family. Pictured: Expedit uses friction on a wet stone to make colors from other rocks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1574089894884-S0UQJJ6IRFXWMRXVCDQ5/TGO_16November2019_Strayer_211.jpg Media Gallery - Natural Palette Expedit is a tour guide and natural painter. With a knowledge of botany, he leads guests down certain paths on the Kouma mountain. Along the way, he introduces them to new plants. Some of those plants he simply shows because of their functionality or use, others he shows for their purposes in cooking, and yet others he shows for their use of color. Expedit uses these natural colors to create vibrant depictions of African scenes to sell in order to support his family. Pictured: A literal earth tone palette created using water and rocks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1574090524042-RP1L3K7Z3GZWEWNNYTZ2/TGO_16November2019_Strayer_246.jpg Media Gallery - Watch me Work Expedit is a tour guide and natural painter. With a knowledge of botany, he leads guests down certain paths on the Kouma mountain. Along the way, he introduces them to new plants. Some of those plants he simply shows because of their functionality or use, others he shows for their purposes in cooking, and yet others he shows for their use of color. Expedit uses these natural colors to create vibrant depictions of African scenes to sell in order to support his family. Pictured: Expedit uses the paints from the rocks to complete a progressive painting on a visitor’s arm. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1574090517976-ISESVX15P9ZHHAWBDVM3/TGO_16November2019_Strayer_278.jpg Media Gallery - Outdoor Gallery Expedit is a tour guide and natural painter. With a knowledge of botany, he leads guests down certain paths on the Kouma mountain. Along the way, he introduces them to new plants. Some of those plants he simply shows because of their functionality or use, others he shows for their purposes in cooking, and yet others he shows for their use of color. Expedit uses these natural colors to create vibrant depictions of African scenes to sell in order to support his family. Pictured: canvases painted by Expedit using all natural colors. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576064576062-LLBOFKLGNPGPXMFKN17U/ST2_5244.jpg Media Gallery - Sinking Sun Took a walk around the campus where I live as the sun was going down. The sights around where I live are incredible! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576064662919-MSPNGD1WWLMY1YC98TEM/TGO_25November2019_Strayer_110.jpg Media Gallery - Lolli-Kong The boys misbehaved so their mom decided to give their lollipops to their pet monkey. She was pretty happy, though she really hates sticky paws. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576064827077-ZRC4TWBDK64G08J29MYJ/TGO_25November2019_Strayer_158.jpg Media Gallery - Lolli-Kong 2 The boys misbehaved so their mom decided to give their lollipops to their pet monkey. She was pretty happy, though she really hates sticky paws. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576064976248-OQQUEGL1SQYQQWSLBJWI/TGO_25November2019_Strayer_170.jpg Media Gallery - Lolli-Kong 3 The boys misbehaved so their mom decided to give their lollipops to their pet monkey. She was pretty happy, though she really hates sticky paws. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576065134560-QHUGG5HY60DZB85NC51K/TGO_25November2019_Strayer_204.jpg Media Gallery - Lolli-Kong 4 The boys misbehaved so their mom decided to give their lollipops to their pet monkey. She was pretty happy, though she really hates sticky paws. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576066975645-X93H5V1ZEWVX63ES428E/TGO_3December2019_Strayer_004.jpg Media Gallery - Grazing As you travel farther north in Togo, you see things different than you see in the south. The topography is not the only change. The further south we went, the more donkeys we saw. A friend of mine told me that this particular type of donkey - she read - is said to have been the type that Jesus rode into Jerusalem. The shadow of the cross fell upon them later and now, they have a brown cross pattern of hair across their backs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576066946917-U1BI34LL11TEFZWLOP2K/TGO_3December2019_Strayer_034.jpg Media Gallery - Premature It is not uncommon for babies to be born premature in Togo. Many of our maternity wards are sprinkled with these little loves and I cannot get enough of seeing their family members hold and feed and care for them. There is just something so precious about the tininess of the babies contrasted against the size of the adults around them. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576067139586-INC0CL7KR4FXMKMIBZHF/TGO_3December2019_Strayer_069.jpg Media Gallery - Premature 2 It is not uncommon for babies to be born premature in Togo. Many of our maternity wards are sprinkled with these little loves and I cannot get enough of seeing their family members hold and feed and care for them. There is just something so precious about the tininess of the babies contrasted against the size of the adults around them. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576067182229-S9UF20Q1GIDPPHE2BYKG/TGO_3December2019_Strayer_119.jpg Media Gallery - Landing Our pilot flew the executive director, his wife, and one of their grandsons from the south to the north so they could visit with the team up here. I was able to go to the base where the airstrip is located and photograph the plane as it came in for its landing. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576067325823-NXKJ2DRIITM4RJBAISC4/TGO_3December2019_Strayer_167.jpg Media Gallery - Securing the Plane Tying down the plane is necessary in between flights. The planes wings and tail must be anchored and other steps must be taken when one is leaving the plane unmanned for a period of time. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576067390500-RYK08V5J99Q3Y8YAGIIG/TGO_3December2019_Strayer_218.jpg Media Gallery - Hydroencephalitis Before last week, I had never seen a child with hydroencephalitis except in photos. At this hospital, they had not one but two cases. This little one has a rather severe case and one doctor even said that this particular case was an “interesting” one. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576067564235-RKP6PGXWQUCHWCWRK2NP/TGO_3December2019_Strayer_297.jpg Media Gallery - C-Section Twins I was able to experience something new last week; my first ever birth. There was a c-section of twins taking place and I was asked to come in for the birth. It was a little graphic, so I chose not to share the pictures of the babies coming out, but instead chose to share these with you. The first one out, brother, was larger and doing very well while the second one out, sister, was tinier and needed a little extra coaxing and help to get her lungs functioning strongly. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576067595329-YHL2R1C0VH00IOT7SOD5/TGO_3December2019_Strayer_314.jpg Media Gallery - Lab Tech An important part of the hospital is the lab where they can run different analyses on various bodily fluids. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576071269345-Z8A2L617GQAUZ3XJPPGC/TGO_3December2019_Strayer_353.jpg Media Gallery - Swabbing Blood The lab also houses the blood testing area. Patients come to get blood drawn and tested. This is the same area where blood can be donated for the hospital’s needs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576071310633-5ZQO5OMS9PLFC2E4KPA6/TGO_3December2019_Strayer_361.jpg Media Gallery - Specimen Analysis Matching specimens with chart numbers is necessary so patients get the proper diagnoses. Each specimen has different protocols and, of course, different outcomes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576071528610-BD1DEW8RICAPZ19HK7LI/TGO_3December2019_Strayer_378.jpg Media Gallery - Microscope Slides Slides are prepared to check under a miscroscope. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576071514881-KODX5OKL225ZI2H7LI87/TGO_3December2019_Strayer_385.jpg Media Gallery - Checking Blood Samples https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576071738105-NO9S0M7B6K63HYTU3EXQ/TGO_3December2019_Strayer_402.jpg Media Gallery - Checking Patients In When patients have paperwork written up for blood work, they check in here and have a seat until someone calls their name to be seen. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576071738450-YGE27RRJHPQSGTF1C8TT/TGO_3December2019_Strayer_416.jpg Media Gallery - Specimen Analysis 2 Examining specimens can be tedious but these lab techs enjoy the work they do so they can deliver results that help patients receive proper treatment. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576071848449-LXMLOS02M1K8O7CO57L6/TGO_3December2019_Strayer_419.jpg Media Gallery - Blood Testing Blood work is done and labeled to be sure each patient gets accurate results. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576072899515-WVTE78GVF2THFN3ZXUG3/TGO_4December2019_Strayer_180.jpg Media Gallery - Moto Repair Shop This shop is one of many you can find around town that repairs motos. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576072885373-G8ANJOESBRQPQ8Q2BZPJ/TGO_4December2019_Strayer_181.jpg Media Gallery - Gas Station Little stands like this can be found along the roadsides and in markets, selling gasoline by the liter in old glass gin bottles. Technically, they are illegal to run and the gas can be unfiltered making it worse for your vehicle, but it is convenient. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576073157429-1SJQLXZ24VM1YO76IN3L/TGO_4December2019_Strayer_185.jpg Media Gallery - Dancing Along Most young children do not speak French, so it can be tricky to start a conversation with them unless you know their tribal language. This little guy spoke at least enough to generate some extreme excitement to talk to us. After saying hello, he decided to dance around, bobbing his legs up and down, with his new found friend to the music playing in the shop. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576072977617-6Q6V1XP6R6KYKXL8RDL5/TGO_4December2019_Strayer_187-4.jpg Media Gallery - See Me Eyes can tell the best stories and being tall sometimes gives you the best vantage point to capture wonder and happiness. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576090481436-BHQT0YPNV5ME8B0LNBGC/TGO_5December2019_Strayer_129.jpg Media Gallery - Nursing Care If only there was a way to express all the appreciation I have for nurses, especially after the last week. In chaotic hospitals with cranky, confused, or really really sick patients, they just keep going. Thank you, nurses, for your love, care, compassion, patience, endurance, and strength. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576090540582-8A1BJJVHQYK0IQ105WFA/TGO_5December2019_Strayer_133.jpg Media Gallery - Nursing Care 2 If only there was a way to express all the appreciation I have for nurses, especially after the last week. In chaotic hospitals with cranky, confused, or really really sick patients, they just keep going. Thank you, nurses, for your love, care, compassion, patience, endurance, and strength. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576090785663-EQ0KU44UYF862RDQ330S/TGO_5December2019_Strayer_177.jpg Media Gallery - Solutions In our hospitals, the staff has to mix the IV solutions by hand. They are dispensed into glass bottles with these blue cloth filters, labeled, and then hung in mesh nets or wire rings when needed by a patient. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576090797098-8DNAH27173S1F2IPAM3P/TGO_5December2019_Strayer_467.jpg Media Gallery - Checking Out The checkout in this hospital is not only where patients go to pay their bills after receiving their care. They are also able to buy cell phone credit and snacks. This can be very important as the limited size of the hospital means some patients can wait a while to be seen and, of course as health care goes, patients can need to stay in the hospital for extended periods of time. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576091026625-L0UV6KE5B1NJZ8NVP2QF/TGO_5December2019_Strayer_565.jpg Media Gallery - Pharmacy On site, the hospital also has its own pharmacy department. The employees spend their days receiving, filling, and giving out orders of prescribed medications to patients. It is a great asset to have the pharmacy on site so that patients can receive their full care in the same place with reasonable cost. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576091077392-CVQ3CRDQH6HOE2C9GR2L/TGO_5December2019_Strayer_593.jpg Media Gallery - Laundry Thursdays are scheduled surgical days which means the ladies in laundry have a larger than normal task. They spend a bulk of their day collecting, washing, drying, folding, and resupplying linens to the operating room. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576091348111-XXPZ359YDILZUJUML14W/TGO_5December2019_Strayer_649.jpg Media Gallery - Phototherapy Specialized care can be a true lifesaver as it is estimated at 32.8 deaths/1,000 live births. This places Togo as 25th overall globally (out of 155). USA, by comparison, ranks 115th with 12.4 deaths/1,000 live births. A benefit of the healthcare in this hospital is the specialized care it can provide for our smallest and youngest patients. Not many hospitals (to my knowledge) in this country are equipped to care for even “simple” needs like jaundice. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576091363597-EPWX36NKM97D5ZA9KSVN/TGO_5December2019_Strayer_678.jpg Media Gallery - Lunch Time Our hospitals are not designed to provide laundry (except for bed linens) or food for our patients. As we try and keep the costs as low as possible to maintain affordable care for patients, the hospital must look to cater only to the absolute necessities. Therefore, if someone comes to the hospital, they need to bring family or friends with them who can provide meals and do laundry for them. There is a “cuisine” building which functions as temporary housing for these companions. They are able to eat, sleep, cook, and do laundry in these facilities while they attend to and wait on their sick loved one to receive care and be discharged. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576091425625-W2AZLFQBH0ZGB6JJ29ZN/TGO_5December2019_Strayer_693.jpg Media Gallery - Mother's Love Pediatric wards are some of the best, and also some of the hardest, places to take photographs. The women usually love to see photos of themselves with their little ones. The care they provide in between doctor and nurse rounds is relentless and tiring. These women (and men as well, sometimes) spend their days sitting and even sleeping on the hard tiled floors with just a stretch of fabric to lie on. They feed and bathe and change their children as they wait, and hope, for him or her to get well. There is something nearly sacred about the connections in these wards. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576092593483-CT043CF5JUQR0TGW31SF/TGO_6December2019_Strayer_002.jpg Media Gallery - Triage Our hospitals here, though larger than some and certainly able to provide a more complex array of care than many government hospitals, are small, understaffed, and overflowing. They are in a constant state of functioning chaos. This hospital has an average wait time of 13 days! Though I did meet a man who said he has been waiting more than 20 days to be seen. The triage system helps to figure out which patients have more urgent needs than others, but it does not make saying, “not today” any easier. In fact, at our other hospital, we have found that 50% of new patients must be turned away daily because of a lack of providers and/or space. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576092544104-XEYS0M2W37URRCCS1QIB/TGO_6December2019_Strayer_006.jpg Media Gallery - Triage 2 Our hospitals here, though larger than some and certainly able to provide a more complex array of care than many government hospitals, are small, understaffed, and overflowing. They are in a constant state of functioning chaos. This hospital has an average wait time of 13 days! Though I did meet a man who said he has been waiting more than 20 days to be seen. The triage system helps to figure out which patients have more urgent needs than others, but it does not make saying, “not today” any easier. In fact, at our other hospital, we have found that 50% of new patients must be turned away daily because of a lack of providers and/or space. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576092751556-C2ZM1A1IYCCP55XAS74D/TGO_6December2019_Strayer_044.jpg Media Gallery - Triage 3 Our hospitals here, though larger than some and certainly able to provide a more complex array of care than many government hospitals, are small, understaffed, and overflowing. They are in a constant state of functioning chaos. This hospital has an average wait time of 13 days! Though I did meet a man who said he has been waiting more than 20 days to be seen. The triage system helps to figure out which patients have more urgent needs than others, but it does not make saying, “not today” any easier. In fact, at our other hospital, we have found that 50% of new patients must be turned away daily because of a lack of providers and/or space. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576092858266-6Y12J9U4VGPZ1BVEELBQ/TGO_6December2019_Strayer_050.jpg Media Gallery - Triage 4 Our hospitals here, though larger than some and certainly able to provide a more complex array of care than many government hospitals, are small, understaffed, and overflowing. They are in a constant state of functioning chaos. This hospital has an average wait time of 13 days! Though I did meet a man who said he has been waiting more than 20 days to be seen. The triage system helps to figure out which patients have more urgent needs than others, but it does not make saying, “not today” any easier. In fact, at our other hospital, we have found that 50% of new patients must be turned away daily because of a lack of providers and/or space. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576093012119-SDTUHAU8J0Q07ALAA9HZ/TGO_6December2019_Strayer_089.jpg Media Gallery - Triage 5 Our hospitals here, though larger than some and certainly able to provide a more complex array of care than many government hospitals, are small, understaffed, and overflowing. They are in a constant state of functioning chaos. This hospital has an average wait time of 13 days! Though I did meet a man who said he has been waiting more than 20 days to be seen. The triage system helps to figure out which patients have more urgent needs than others, but it does not make saying, “not today” any easier. In fact, at our other hospital, we have found that 50% of new patients must be turned away daily because of a lack of providers and/or space. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576093124870-B3XRIONMU17MIOVQ14DD/TGO_6December2019_Strayer_141.jpg Media Gallery - Triage 6 Our hospitals here, though larger than some and certainly able to provide a more complex array of care than many government hospitals, are small, understaffed, and overflowing. They are in a constant state of functioning chaos. This hospital has an average wait time of 13 days! Though I did meet a man who said he has been waiting more than 20 days to be seen. The triage system helps to figure out which patients have more urgent needs than others, but it does not make saying, “not today” any easier. In fact, at our other hospital, we have found that 50% of new patients must be turned away daily because of a lack of providers and/or space. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576093235302-6UQOD5D2FSYINIM0N7VJ/TGO_6December2019_Strayer_167.jpg Media Gallery - Getting Numbers After being sent to the guard shack after being assessed by nurses and doctors at the triage in the morning, one hands in their patient booklet. They are registered and handed a wooden tile containing a number that will allow them to be seen when a medical provider gets to them that day. These wooden tiles are collected and returned to the shack to be used again in the following days. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576093357176-Z98178WT4K3DZD8A66FW/TGO_6December2019_Strayer_175.jpg Media Gallery - Vital Reception At the reception area, vitals are taken and recorded so the doctors and nurses in the clinic are able to assess the patient more fully without having to do these steps. Having reception care for this also means more patients can be seen in a day because everyone is keeping things rolling. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576093403884-U3K0AT2FTEHG081HHE9M/TGO_6December2019_Strayer_199.jpg Media Gallery - Vital Reception 2 At the reception area, vitals are taken and recorded so the doctors and nurses in the clinic are able to assess the patient more fully without having to do these steps. Having reception care for this also means more patients can be seen in a day because everyone is keeping things rolling. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576094105292-AB5O1JRH2M7E52RZH4EX/TGO_6December2019_Strayer_214.jpg Media Gallery - Waiting Crowd In the States we would have a hard time with this. On a hot 90 plus degree day, we would want a/c, a comfy chair, something to read (or watch), access to a water fountain, and to be seen in less than 15 minutes from the time we check in. Here, patients stand or sit on hard benches or the concrete with nothing to read or watch until their name is called by a medical care provider. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576094030634-E4MTYCW2AE9F8X5YZCF1/TGO_6December2019_Strayer_258-2.jpg Media Gallery - Napping Anywhere there is no one is a good place to rest. Since it can take a while to be seen, it is very common to find patients and their companions resting all over. They lie down on the concrete, wooden benches, the dry, scratchy grass, and many other places to await care. In the States we would have a hard time with this. On a hot 90 plus degree day, we would want a/c, a comfy chair, something to read (or watch), access to a water fountain, and to be seen in less than 15 minutes from the time we check in. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576094235643-902BQNNZXUSEF8KZ4KXS/TGO_6December2019_Strayer_265.jpg Media Gallery - Waiting Crowd 2 In the States we would have a hard time with this. On a hot 90 plus degree day, we would want a/c, a comfy chair, something to read (or watch), access to a water fountain, and to be seen in less than 15 minutes from the time we check in. Here, patients stand or sit on hard benches or the concrete with nothing to read or watch until their name is called by a medical care provider. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576094273865-Z99TM1JQWCVNS27NCOFY/TGO_6December2019_Strayer_267.jpg Media Gallery - Checkout Another view of the checkout, but this time from the patient’s side. It is a vital part of hospital operations, but one that can easily be overlooked since they are one of the few departments that does not technically provide a medical service. However, without them, there would be no functioning hospital. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576095581844-P30O518QEU0N9H91RAO0/TGO_6December2019_Strayer_345.jpg Media Gallery - Laundry Patient’s families do the laundry. They use 5 gallon buckets to wash and then they either lay the laundry across the grass or hang it from branches of a tree to dry in the hot, desert sun. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576095220367-7A6DH608HHP2KT1AILQL/TGO_6December2019_Strayer_323.jpg Media Gallery - Laundry 2 Patient’s families do the laundry. They use 5 gallon buckets to wash and then they either lay the laundry across the grass or hang it from branches of a tree to dry in the hot, desert sun. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576095566133-21R5HQ56B903H0SDW9U7/TGO_6December2019_Strayer_327.jpg Media Gallery - Laundry 3 Patient’s families do the laundry. They use 5 gallon buckets to wash and then they either lay the laundry across the grass or hang it from branches of a tree to dry in the hot, desert sun. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576095288928-3DALCLNLWG3KYI8GYYAJ/TGO_6December2019_Strayer_287.jpg Media Gallery - Laundry 4 Patient’s families do the laundry. They use 5 gallon buckets to wash and then they either lay the laundry across the grass or hang it from branches of a tree to dry in the hot, desert sun. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576138276333-6A9TEM7DYF7H1J4E72TH/TGO_7December2019_Strayer_389.jpg Media Gallery - Kid's Club Every week at the hospital, there is a kid’s club. Children staying at the hospital with family as well as children from the neighborhood are welcome to come in and play. There is usually a sport activity, songs, a craft activity, and a Bible lesson for those that come. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576138262821-6QG8AOY660M2ZK8DVSVJ/TGO_7December2019_Strayer_396.jpg Media Gallery - Kid's Club 2 Every week at the hospital, there is a kid’s club. Children staying at the hospital with family as well as children from the neighborhood are welcome to come in and play. There is usually a sport activity, songs, a craft activity, and a Bible lesson for those that come. After the sport activity everyone was given a water bag to drink. This little one was more content hugging than drinking. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576138419853-GL9VGFYU40ZI5SBGIMZA/TGO_7December2019_Strayer_403.jpg Media Gallery - Kid's Club 3 Every week at the hospital, there is a kid’s club. Children staying at the hospital with family as well as children from the neighborhood are welcome to come in and play. There is usually a sport activity, songs, a craft activity, and a Bible lesson for those that come. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576138427794-MD057DBXBV8X3F3A8M0N/TGO_7December2019_Strayer_407.jpg Media Gallery - Kid's Club 4 Every week at the hospital, there is a kid’s club. Children staying at the hospital with family as well as children from the neighborhood are welcome to come in and play. There is usually a sport activity, songs, a craft activity, and a Bible lesson for those that come. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576138578700-E7V0OCEAE0QRVAIOFOLL/TGO_7December2019_Strayer_440.jpg Media Gallery - Kid's Club 5 Every week at the hospital, there is a kid’s club. Children staying at the hospital with family as well as children from the neighborhood are welcome to come in and play. There is usually a sport activity, songs, a craft activity, and a Bible lesson for those that come. It is not uncommon for older brothers and sisters to bring the younger siblings along. Many of the girls, when the brother or sister is crying or fussy, tie him or her onto their backs as they have watched so many other women do. It does not hamper their participation though. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576138578392-EE24P3E59HER5HU2GXLL/TGO_7December2019_Strayer_451.jpg Media Gallery - Kid's Club 6 Every week at the hospital, there is a kid’s club. Children staying at the hospital with family as well as children from the neighborhood are welcome to come in and play. There is usually a sport activity, songs, a craft activity, and a Bible lesson for those that come. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576138750497-218XSY1EZ3BCA4MMKEMO/TGO_7December2019_Strayer_453.jpg Media Gallery - Kid's Club 7 Every week at the hospital, there is a kid’s club. Children staying at the hospital with family as well as children from the neighborhood are welcome to come in and play. There is usually a sport activity, songs, a craft activity, and a Bible lesson for those that come. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576138732165-878R1XATXNIKEDIDIZW6/TGO_7December2019_Strayer_466.jpg Media Gallery - Kid's Club 8 Every week at the hospital, there is a kid’s club. Children staying at the hospital with family as well as children from the neighborhood are welcome to come in and play. There is usually a sport activity, songs, a craft activity, and a Bible lesson for those that come. One of the leaders, also a nurse at the hospital, helps the children that were too little to color on their own. He took a color and placed it in a baby’s hand. Then he took that hand in his own and helped each little one color the picture so they could participate like the bigger kids. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576146102996-5AZFPMB6YHKY379Z7INA/TGO_8December2019_Strayer_552.jpg Media Gallery - Bring the Seats In the village churches, women bring the wooden benches and place them under the big tree. As usual, these benches are carried on the women heads and then placed around the one doing the preaching that day. They set the benches under the shade of a large, central tree to have some respite from the sun. At the end of the service, the women pick up the benches and place them on their heads again to carry them back to the homes there were borrowed from. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1576146177123-YRS839C51DFJIQ2R117N/TGO_8December2019_Strayer_558.jpg Media Gallery - The Path For the village church, some folks may walk from a neighboring village to come and hear the Word of God spoken. Other walkers on the path may simply be those going about their chores and duties: working in the fields, carrying water home, selling goods, etc. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1577790035681-ZGE4CROCHLBU67QSNPAI/TGO_15December2019_Strayer_044.jpg Media Gallery - Scripture Reading Our Christmas concert began with some Scripture reading from Revelation. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1577790076031-LB0BHZ1EWKLIMMUZY97B/TGO_15December2019_Strayer_171.jpg Media Gallery - Choir 1 The concert consisted of 3 different choirs and a brass section. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1577790322472-NWFU3K2X9HVP1SRBEV2Y/TGO_15December2019_Strayer_199.jpg Media Gallery - Windy Section The brass section played both stand alone and accompaniment pieces during the concert. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1577790318973-I5P6QETPE86FDEZVWJLN/TGO_15December2019_Strayer_212.jpg Media Gallery - Trumpets The music played by the brass section was mostly “recognizable” to the American ear though the lyrics being sung were clearly in another tongue (Ewe or French). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1577790482215-7232DR9D5MY87TC7A5XA/TGO_15December2019_Strayer_324.jpg Media Gallery - Tune In The instruments can sometimes sound a bit out of tune because tuning them here in Africa can prove difficult, but the players play with what they have. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570360270835-QY0QP9OQ2URYW7FH0GEE/BEN_2October2019_Strayer_025.jpg Media Gallery - Interaction The director of Les Merveilles, an inclusive school for non-hearing, interacts with some students during class. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570360472628-2AAMLAAHU6F0UAA9XZSX/BEN_2October2019_Strayer_050.jpg Media Gallery - Attention Students pay attention to visitors in the front of their classroom. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570360549420-XYKRTLDFRLXDPIDMLEP9/BEN_2October2019_Strayer_062.jpg Media Gallery - Super There is a variety of rhythmic clapping found in groups across West Africa. Typically, in Togo, one can be congratulated on doing something well with the clapping preceded with a type of chant, “ça, c’est magnifique” (that’s magnificent). In Benin, the students followed their clapping with a thumbs up and “super”. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570360637980-6WCB9BI9QWAF0XABC02B/BEN_2October2019_Strayer_087.jpg Media Gallery - Sing a Song After greeting visitors in their class, this group of students also sang a song for them. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570362673203-A86IFAERSDWABGJ5CVXG/BEN_2October2019_Strayer_053.jpg Media Gallery - Show me the Sign Teachers in Les Merveilles school in Benin are trained in Sign Language. Knowing Sign allows them to communicate their lessons to their classes to keep both hearing and non-hearing students on the same page. This teacher is translating for a visitor so the non-hearing students will know what is being said. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570360700497-446UKU27U0T01FWJQ3P8/BEN_2October2019_Strayer_143.jpg Media Gallery - Not Used to This Many folks in Africa, particularly in rural areas, are not accustomed to having their photos taken. These young kindergarten aged children were no exceptions. After an initial photo or two, they may smile or laugh when shown the images of themselves afterwards. Then again, they may not. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570360786321-R17F1GSNXMA458WPTN7B/BEN_2October2019_Strayer_154.jpg Media Gallery - Not Used to This 2 Many folks in Africa, particularly in rural areas, are not accustomed to having their photos taken. These young kindergarten aged children were no exceptions. After an initial photo or two, they may smile or laugh when shown the images of themselves afterwards. Then again, they may not. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570360889510-XMCRPC0G43HK188LSQDY/BEN_2October2019_Strayer_157.jpg Media Gallery - Not Used to This 3 Many folks in Africa, particularly in rural areas, are not accustomed to having their photos taken. These young kindergarten aged children were no exceptions. After an initial photo or two, they may smile or laugh when shown the images of themselves afterwards. Then again, they may not. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570360963565-W3GJ6FPKF0FGN6HXJBAB/BEN_2October2019_Strayer_189.jpg Media Gallery - Plantains Women in Africa can carry large and heavy burdens on their heads. Some of those burdens can seem precariously perched, and yet, the women are able to easily transport it. Carrying items on their heads keeps their hands free. Many times, their free hands take care of their babies as they walk. It is no small feat to carry burdens such as this on their heads - it requires strength, skill, and a great amount of balance. All of this comes from years of practice since they begin carrying things at a young age. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570361051046-B32A328QEK54A34MCRD5/BEN_2October2019_Strayer_208.jpg Media Gallery - Plantains 2 Women in Africa can carry large and heavy burdens on their heads. Some of those burdens can seem precariously perched, and yet, the women are able to easily transport it. Carrying items on their heads keeps their hands free. Many times, their free hands take care of their babies as they walk. It is no small feat to carry burdens such as this on their heads - it requires strength, skill, and a great amount of balance. All of this comes from years of practice since they begin carrying things at a young age. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570361175810-IG13U5O5QA2IKLKOEM6M/BEN_2October2019_Strayer_212.jpg Media Gallery - Break The students are given a break at 10:30 each day. During this break they are able to buy some snacks from the women that have small shops nearby. The women come to the campus with their treats and set up small tables. The students choose what they would like and then pay for their things before enjoying their 30 minute rest. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570363709032-UZVBKUOBLQWV3FKQT56R/BEN_2October2019_Strayer_370.jpg Media Gallery - Chalk Up The students hold their chalk aloft so their teacher knows they are ready to being their assignment. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570361463043-CCYLZY8622UHSQ18WLWI/BEN_2October2019_Strayer_372.jpg Media Gallery - Chalkboards Students learn to read, write, draw, and do math on chalkboards. The use of chalkboards allows students to make as many mistakes and practice, virtually forever, on certain letters, words, numbers, or problems without using up paper and writing utensils. This way of teaching may be dusty but it is very economical. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570361553062-EG7T2IMNCS5DHQDJPCOK/BEN_2October2019_Strayer_389.jpg Media Gallery - Show Me After an assignment has been completed, students are instructed to hold their chalkboards up high so the teacher can tell who is still working and which finished students may need additional help. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570361631353-PF6S3J17AD8KIMMSEGZQ/BEN_2October2019_Strayer_395.jpg Media Gallery - Circles Around You In a world of straight lines, this guy wanted to draw circles. His teacher instructed the class to draw a horizontal line from one side of the chalkboard to the other. He was either not listening or just decided to do his own things because he continued to draw circles instead. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570361725486-ZV3ZPD6JMTW2HD4E9LR0/BEN_2October2019_Strayer_424.jpg Media Gallery - Look, Listen Sign Language is used to include the non-hearing students in the “regular” classes. In Les Merveilles in Benin there are deaf students in nearly every single class. While most teachers teach simultaneously in French and Sign for the hearing and non-hearing alike, newer teachers require some assistance. This gentleman is helping a new teacher adjust to the classroom so he took on the job of signing while she taught in French. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570361805658-L41O1NG12SRZCQNS3O0O/BEN_2October2019_Strayer_426.jpg Media Gallery - My Hands are My Voice Non-hearing people rely on their hands to communicate. Facial expressions and body language are important to signing but without their hands non-hearing people have very limited communication options. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570361925871-1T7PWA3KWTMX8KQAT5DB/BEN_2October2019_Strayer_457.jpg Media Gallery - Hands-on Learning Learning to count by tens can be tricky. Here a teacher works with a young student using rocks to count by tens. He was having some difficulty with his Sign numbers so in addition to the teacher’s help, 2 fellow non-hearing classmates were also trying to help him out. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570361242120-QPX66BWVXV7E8KCC5GTV/BEN_2October2019_Strayer_251.jpg Media Gallery - Flocking Take one photo and show one child and this is soon to be the result. They love to see themselves and they love to do fun, goofy, and cool things with as many friends as they can find. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570362066947-Z21G5I7E5RXSBJOT12LG/BEN_3October2019_Strayer_022.jpg Media Gallery - Flocking 2 Take one photo and show one child and this is soon to be the result. They love to see themselves and they love to do fun, goofy, and cool things with as many friends as they can find. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570362021660-HFXTGG0GSHMVIRU6S5VU/BEN_2October2019_Strayer_490.jpg Media Gallery - Flocking 3 Take one photo and show one child and this is soon to be the result. They love to see themselves and they love to do fun, goofy, and cool things with as many friends as they can find. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570362149094-0H0U37R8AO4F4B2TT2YT/BEN_3October2019_Strayer_031.jpg Media Gallery - Flocking 4 Take one photo and show one child and this is soon to be the result. They love to see themselves and they love to do fun, goofy, and cool things with as many friends as they can find. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570362210930-LPE2BA8X2IQTC5G2DI9B/BEN_3October2019_Strayer_076.jpg Media Gallery - Posed Take one photo and show one child and this is soon to be the result. They love to see themselves and they love to do fun, goofy, and cool things with as many friends as they can find. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570363009001-QF0L0MJ28J0YXPJZL7M8/BEN_3October2019_Strayer_135.jpg Media Gallery - School Photo The 6 classes of the 2019-2020 school year for Les Merveilles. The only class not pictured here is the kindergarten class. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1578665033063-UQL740W93D7WVVTNNVYS/TGO_8January2020_Strayer_037.jpg Media Gallery - Review Students have returned from break and take out their materials to begin reviewing their Braille while working on some mathematics equations. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1578665014463-6MK2HEEQCEIUI0TZW8CL/TGO_8January2020_Strayer_049.jpg Media Gallery - Review 2 Students have returned from break and take out their materials to begin reviewing their Braille while working on some mathematics equations. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1578665117382-UXVARVBC9TQQ3GXUVMG5/TGO_8January2020_Strayer_053.jpg Media Gallery - Review 3 Students have returned from break and take out their materials to begin reviewing their Braille while working on some mathematics equations. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1578665126932-01NUV98KJ77A2MZOX5AQ/TGO_8January2020_Strayer_057.jpg Media Gallery - Review 4 Students have returned from break and take out their materials to begin reviewing their Braille while working on some mathematics equations. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1579529774266-UI71TYOLS7XG09F2I0BW/TGO_11January2020_Strayer_253.jpg Media Gallery - Celebration Pastor Boniface Sakpa receives his certificate of ordination from Pastor Happy. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1579529641629-X6KZGWZKDTXXEI540EEM/TGO_11January2020_Strayer_276.jpg Media Gallery - Blessing After receiving his official Certificate of Ordination, a group of other pastors and church leaders prayed over Pastor Sakpa and his wife. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1579529952204-I74EP2Z0N7L5DO1V2XCB/TGO_11January2020_Strayer_354.jpg Media Gallery - Sing Praise The choir sings a song of celebration at the ordination celebration of Pastor Sakpa. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1579530066945-2GLBVRHOZ833WMEN4367/TGO_11January2020_Strayer_430.jpg Media Gallery - Hospitality Celebration ceremonies usually require celebration meals. Approximately one/third of the dishes sit waiting to be cleaned from the meal preparations of serving the guests who made the journey to celebrate Pastor Sakpa’s ordination. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1583228027969-941DLO2FYN9VDYTERLXF/TGO_20January2020_Strayer_010.jpg Media Gallery - Budding Of the numerous trees on our Village of Light campus, this one is a unique one that I’ve not seen anywhere else. I’ve searched far and wide but to no avail on tracking down any names. If you’re a botanist of any sort and you know, please let me know! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1583228111388-MTAVLM4EI8NFZ3CV25UF/TGO_20January2020_Strayer_011.jpg Media Gallery - Blossoms Of the numerous trees on our Village of Light campus, this one is a unique one that I’ve not seen anywhere else. I’ve searched far and wide but to no avail on tracking down any names. If you’re a botanist of any sort and you know, please let me know! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1583225308451-8UA3QPWPX5IYPP54O7PP/TGO_22January2020_Strayer_002.jpg Media Gallery - Dusty Sunrise The harmattan season is full of dust. Winds blow dust from the Sahara desert around various countries in the more northern end of Africa. Togo endures this dusty season for a time. It’s not terrible though the dust requires a lot of extra house cleaning during the week, but it does also provide a nice filter for taking photos of the rising sun. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1583225248158-V0YMW4YEWJ2B6055WGV8/TGO_22January2020_Strayer_005.jpg Media Gallery - Laundry A student at the Village of Light School for the Blind in Kpalime, Togo does his laundry early on a Saturday morning. Each piece of clothing is washed in a bucket, wrung well, then laid out in the grass to dry. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1583225485737-1NONC278WRDNQ18GPUYX/TGO_23January2020_Strayer_027.jpg Media Gallery - Making an Entrance Child Evangelism Fellowship held a course which trained men and women to work in children and youth ministries. Each participant went to these classes several nights a week and completed more than 70 hours of training to receive their certifications. Among the recipients were quite a few people from the local Baptist churches associated with ABWE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1583225590799-JHCMSSAJCOY6OD1IHS6K/TGO_23January2020_Strayer_059.jpg Media Gallery - Sing Child Evangelism Fellowship held a course which trained men and women to work in children and youth ministries. Each participant went to these classes several nights a week and completed more than 70 hours of training to receive their certifications. Among the recipients were quite a few people from the local Baptist churches associated with ABWE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1583226030104-42A8ZM7EC2IWD28UV8Q5/TGO_23January2020_Strayer_142.jpg Media Gallery - Madame La Directrice Child Evangelism Fellowship held a course which trained men and women to work in children and youth ministries. Each participant went to these classes several nights a week and completed more than 70 hours of training to receive their certifications. Among the recipients were quite a few people from the local Baptist churches associated with ABWE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1583226074570-YYTCEJANSH1PS134WFHS/TGO_23January2020_Strayer_156.jpg Media Gallery - Translation Child Evangelism Fellowship held a course which trained men and women to work in children and youth ministries. Each participant went to these classes several nights a week and completed more than 70 hours of training to receive their certifications. Among the recipients were quite a few people from the local Baptist churches associated with ABWE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1583226429550-3XKF95V0HRES9G7F4WI6/TGO_23January2020_Strayer_209.jpg Media Gallery - Applause Child Evangelism Fellowship held a course which trained men and women to work in children and youth ministries. Each participant went to these classes several nights a week and completed more than 70 hours of training to receive their certifications. Among the recipients were quite a few people from the local Baptist churches associated with ABWE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1583226366705-UC76D54F0I0Y84FZH5YD/TGO_23January2020_Strayer_229.jpg Media Gallery - Certification Child Evangelism Fellowship held a course which trained men and women to work in children and youth ministries. Each participant went to these classes several nights a week and completed more than 70 hours of training to receive their certifications. Among the recipients were quite a few people from the local Baptist churches associated with ABWE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1583226899215-TK3FLZJE1X21IES6RXA9/TGO_23January2020_Strayer_370.jpg Media Gallery - A Face in the Crowd Child Evangelism Fellowship held a course which trained men and women to work in children and youth ministries. Each participant went to these classes several nights a week and completed more than 70 hours of training to receive their certifications. Among the recipients were quite a few people from the local Baptist churches associated with ABWE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1583226577061-H3AIHF2LTCQ3O7J9HJFE/TGO_23January2020_Strayer_363.jpg Media Gallery - Receiving "Line" Child Evangelism Fellowship held a course which trained men and women to work in children and youth ministries. Each participant went to these classes several nights a week and completed more than 70 hours of training to receive their certifications. Among the recipients were quite a few people from the local Baptist churches associated with ABWE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1583230455597-1EQU09AVSP748GO4E2PE/TGO_28January2020_Strayer_007.jpg Media Gallery - 100 Day Hats The students at the Village of Light School for the Blind celebrate their 100th day of school by participating in activities dealing with 100s. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1583230430606-6M7EG3EYT95TMHX0LUKO/TGO_28January2020_Strayer_022.jpg Media Gallery - 100 Day Hats 2 The students at the Village of Light School for the Blind celebrate their 100th day of school by participating in activities dealing with 100s. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1583230675963-B8FKAYGNXVLYTK4OCMT5/TGO_28January2020_Strayer_048.jpg Media Gallery - 100 Day Hats 3 The students at the Village of Light School for the Blind celebrate their 100th day of school by participating in activities dealing with 100s. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1583230706548-MC00P7YOCIZ40H52QFKC/TGO_28January2020_Strayer_063.jpg Media Gallery - 100 Day Hats 4 The students at the Village of Light School for the Blind celebrate their 100th day of school by participating in activities dealing with 100s. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1583230898111-U7P3SJTP5C9H2CZEUJLI/TGO_28January2020_Strayer_079.jpg Media Gallery - The 100th Gemstone! The students at the Village of Light School for the Blind celebrate their 100th day of school by participating in activities dealing with 100s. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1583230861440-QZ9BAMNMY39KTM2ET01B/TGO_28January2020_Strayer_090.jpg Media Gallery - 100 Day Chart COMPLETE The students at the Village of Light School for the Blind celebrate their 100th day of school by participating in activities dealing with 100s. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1583231127029-CI2CLAPGYPQY9GOF9BC4/TGO_28January2020_Strayer_104.jpg Media Gallery - 100 Day Chart The students at the Village of Light School for the Blind celebrate their 100th day of school by participating in activities dealing with 100s. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1583231201810-V9FCTY297WO9TAN4HESR/TGO_28January2020_Strayer_107.jpg Media Gallery - 100 Day Chart COMPLETE 2 The students at the Village of Light School for the Blind celebrate their 100th day of school by participating in activities dealing with 100s. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1583231407851-920N988EVTNHR2VI32CI/TGO_28January2020_Strayer_185.jpg Media Gallery - 100 Days as Friends The students at the Village of Light School for the Blind celebrate their 100th day of school by participating in activities dealing with 100s. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1583231442789-RC2D9DMUPHR0D7NRKKCF/TGO_28January2020_Strayer_189.jpg Media Gallery - 100 Days as Friends 2 The students at the Village of Light School for the Blind celebrate their 100th day of school by participating in activities dealing with 100s. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1583231800207-1UXUS1GM6OZ3F6C0OWA7/TGO_28January2020_Strayer_244.jpg Media Gallery - 100 Steps Together The students at the Village of Light School for the Blind celebrate their 100th day of school by participating in activities dealing with 100s. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1583231736528-MHY0SYH8D1AMW8XL3BGX/TGO_28January2020_Strayer_265.jpg Media Gallery - 100 Days Smarter The students at the Village of Light School for the Blind celebrate their 100th day of school by participating in activities dealing with 100s. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1584284339782-1FJHCEEYTFFUAHLGX583/TGO_13March2020_Strayer_082.jpg Media Gallery - Splish The staff organized a day of fun for the students for a break from the heat as well as a break from studies before exams. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1584284391401-SYPQYJRN8BZP6MLGS7IJ/TGO_13March2020_Strayer_088.jpg Media Gallery - Splash The staff organized a day of fun for the students for a break from the heat as well as a break from studies before exams. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1584284510644-PDZBUFNC70RQ2KXBCMLY/TGO_13March2020_Strayer_132.jpg Media Gallery - Taking a Bath? The staff organized a day of fun for the students for a break from the heat as well as a break from studies before exams. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1584284644832-32XSE2ZZJ1CUT2PF0KE7/TGO_13March2020_Strayer_109.jpg Media Gallery - Pop & Laugh The staff organized a day of fun for the students for a break from the heat as well as a break from studies before exams. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1584284865200-BH01L6OJ11LI5NP7CHF0/TGO_13March2020_Strayer_209.jpg Media Gallery - Over Under The staff organized a day of fun for the students for a break from the heat as well as a break from studies before exams. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1584285011766-CYFYJ1YH388ASMK0QYON/TGO_13March2020_Strayer_214.jpg Media Gallery - Waiting Your Turn The staff organized a day of fun for the students for a break from the heat as well as a break from studies before exams. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1584285289405-COOG47X7MLHFGD11DLHB/TGO_13March2020_Strayer_225.jpg Media Gallery - Happy to Play The staff organized a day of fun for the students for a break from the heat as well as a break from studies before exams. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1584285608389-9FIBAPDXVAUZUPXZ49G4/TGO_13March2020_Strayer_241.jpg Media Gallery - Next! The staff organized a day of fun for the students for a break from the heat as well as a break from studies before exams. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1584285696443-PJGFVBGSYBA0L3AGP5PN/TGO_13March2020_Strayer_243.jpg Media Gallery - Straight Over The staff organized a day of fun for the students for a break from the heat as well as a break from studies before exams. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1584285880734-9ZXSLR9LFSQRUE9C65M9/TGO_13March2020_Strayer_376.jpg Media Gallery - Race to Win The staff organized a day of fun for the students for a break from the heat as well as a break from studies before exams. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1584286004758-ZQD1RSTDMR8NG3CH2J5Y/TGO_13March2020_Strayer_483.jpg Media Gallery - Buckets of Fun The staff organized a day of fun for the students for a break from the heat as well as a break from studies before exams. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1584286318278-WDGUHWRBBLZV9USJAKGB/TGO_13March2020_Strayer_510.jpg Media Gallery - Put Your Back Into It The staff organized a day of fun for the students for a break from the heat as well as a break from studies before exams. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1584286801042-HQGFEUVZ2WOTRI5WMRZW/TGO_13March2020_Strayer_535.jpg Media Gallery - Tug o' War The staff organized a day of fun for the students for a break from the heat as well as a break from studies before exams. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1584286746320-K6RMCTQYCHLKI2GAWZR4/TGO_13March2020_Strayer_550.jpg Media Gallery - Laughing for the Win The staff organized a day of fun for the students for a break from the heat as well as a break from studies before exams. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1584286965477-QATJ02S5FU3E6AQO2VC7/TGO_13March2020_Strayer_552.jpg Media Gallery - Laughing for the Win 2 The staff organized a day of fun for the students for a break from the heat as well as a break from studies before exams. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1584287093310-I7DDDHV91DO70IX6XK6A/TGO_13March2020_Strayer_596.jpg Media Gallery - Quiz Me The staff organized a day of fun for the students for a break from the heat as well as a break from studies before exams. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1584960287045-XZEMW3VSNGSI7EYD9CI9/TGO_17March2020_Strayer_078.jpg Media Gallery - Crazy Kora It seems we may all know just a little bit how Kora feels now that we’ve been restricted in our social interactions. This little vervet monkey is a master of escaping, though she did not succeed this day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1584960168058-5R8GW8BMWM5JDM8DEI5T/TGO_17March2020_Strayer_084.jpg Media Gallery - Concentration It seems we may all know just a little bit how Kora feels now that we’ve been restricted in our social interactions. This little vervet monkey is a master of escaping, though she did not succeed this day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1589880199313-BAMAEKEVEEYQGCUJX5FE/TGO_17April2020_Strayer_001.JPG Media Gallery - Always Cheesin' This little guy is one of the sons of the dorm parents for the female students at the Village of Light School for the Blind. He is always ready to give a big smile when he sees the camera, and like all children, he loves to see the picture after it’s been taken. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1589880369090-SKZAUZILMNM6LTAF8485/TGO_17April2020_Strayer_007.JPG Media Gallery - Palm of Her Hand A Village of Light staff worker makes palm oil. This process is long and requires a lot of hard work. The nuts are picked from their cluster and left to sit in bowls in the sun for a couple of days. Then the nuts are poured into large pots and crushed with a wooden stick that slightly resembles a crutch. The nuts turn into a more orange and fibrous paste like substance. Water is added and the nuts are further agitated, drawing out the oil. Then the nuts and fibers are hand sifted and tossed into pots and bowls, leaving the oil behind. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1589881287053-HJC50KXF4BEWVW5523QL/_ST35388.jpg Media Gallery - Mango Season During mango season, the trees drop a lot of fruit. Someone comes by and cleans them up in the morning and by evening that day there are many more on the ground leaving them plenty of work to do again the next day. The hours in between give many bugs and insects the chance to get a quick snack. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1589881082942-81VWTHMPNIJ7ZRPB52L5/_ST35523-2.jpg Media Gallery - Sunning Lizards can be found around every corner. This guy was basking in the sun a bit over by the maintenance shed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1589881638092-K7TJM6XP9SERQEHMVPMW/_ST35692.jpg Media Gallery - Long Exposure The hours after dark are calm and cool. This provides a great atmosphere for nice long exposures to capture the stars in the sky. It also opens up the shadows and colors and allows one to see more than what the naked eye perceives. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1589881757563-LVY7V4MA6DKUVQ51PML7/Message.jpg Media Gallery - Memorial Some have come before us and given their lives to their work. Their giving is memorialized so we will remember to live our lives well while we are able. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1589881846277-0K1IQ9HXFRUX3CN5ONK9/ST2_7826.jpg Media Gallery - Flipping Trees Lensballs are pretty fun accessories to photography. They provide opportunities for one to create a new and different type of photo. The perspective is quite a unique one and they’re always good for a “wow” moment from viewers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1589881877074-2OXJ3K9FCHCG0UBAXL92/ST2_7854.jpg Media Gallery - Going to Market A Village of Light staff worker readies to go to the Kpalime market to purchase some produce. She and the guard have a brief conversation as she heads out. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1589882194095-2KLAPPBU4QB619CTEK7R/ST3_5241.jpg Media Gallery - Coco One of many benefits of living in a tropical environment is the abundance of coconut palms. This coconut fell in my front yard and a couple of days later, I has able to enjoy the water inside as well as the meat. A handful of healthy, tasty treats with just a little effort! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1589882098827-D707NSP0WUL63G50PU9E/ST3_5254.jpg Media Gallery - Up Palm leaves make great patterns and leading lines in your photographs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1589882251603-FXGUNNUUCAAA59WHZN91/ST3_5322.jpg Media Gallery - Mountain View The sun doesn’t always set so magnificently, but when it does, one has to capture those colors. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1589882199932-F8OZXW9WXN8GLW0SNUVC/TGO_2May2020_Strayer_004-2.jpg Media Gallery - Hello, Moon Learning new skills like night photography can be a challenge, but it’s also a lot of fun. The things one can learn about light and how to capture it or leave it out is pretty fascinating. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1591605516614-ULTBN267KU6H72XD3XSR/TGO_21May2020_Strayer_058.jpg Media Gallery - Bible Study Rebekah Poteat spends at least one hour studying the Bible with several blind adult students/aides currently living at the Village of Light campus during COVID-19. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1591605644050-384X94DSEQ8GWNT2029W/TGO_21May2020_Strayer_061.jpg Media Gallery - Bible Study 2 Rebekah Poteat spends at least one hour studying the Bible with several blind adult students/aides living at the Village of Light campus during COVID-19. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1591605653819-K97EPHYXZGRZKX07D6UY/TGO_21May2020_Strayer_073.jpg Media Gallery - Bible Study 3 Rebekah Poteat spends at least one hour studying the Bible with several blind adult students/aides living at the Village of Light campus during COVID-19. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1591605769969-NOYHIWBITKUDOL1VOHSY/TGO_21May2020_Strayer_087.jpg Media Gallery - Bible Study 4 Rebekah Poteat spends at least one hour studying the Bible with several blind adult students/aides living at the Village of Light campus during COVID-19. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1591617033821-8FG61G1KYDKWM9AF13U5/TGO_04Jun2020_Strayer_008.jpg Media Gallery - Lunar Halo Sometimes you can see a halo around the moon. This is a result of light refracting through ice crystals in the atmosphere. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1596718218313-Y8YR1UHGKFLR9LG70YX7/TGO_01August2020_Strayer_009.JPG Media Gallery - Paparazzi Weddings are a very felicitous occasion in Togo. The camera crew was staying busy taking pictures and videos of the bride and groom while they got ready and then when the groom arrived to see his bride and get some photos done before the ceremony, it seemed like he was a celebrity as the truck rolled in. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1596718372274-RFTB0WF369NUHOOWRJSX/TGO_01August2020_Strayer_013.JPG Media Gallery - The Bride One of the eight-year-old boys was anxiously waiting for the bride to be ready. He frequently came into the house asking, “Is the bride ready yet?!” When she finally was ready, he got a glimpse of her through the doorway and turned to tell his mom, “She looks beautiful!” Yes, my friend, she does indeed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1597068926571-NUX0BFRCHBGO8DISULAF/TGO_01August2020_Strayer_019.JPG Media Gallery - Social Distancing? These three young boys were part of the wedding band. According to the restrictions of COVID-19, the guests had to sit no more than 3 to a bench. But, when it came to seeing the bride and groom announced as husband and wife for the first time, they could no longer maintain the distance and had to crowd to the end of their bench for a peek! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1597068971116-EJUISD0TI7IA3RX8DJ2Q/TGO_01August2020_Strayer_021.JPG Media Gallery - Prayer A group of pastors gathers to pray a prayer of blessing over the new couple before the ceremony leads to the after-party. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1605213073431-QTT7K5YM12CDLZBUT9P4/TGO_02August2020_Strayer_021.JPG Media Gallery - Rapt Attention We enjoy Sunday ministry in the villages with our friends. This particular Sunday, Steph held the iPad so the kids could watch part of the Biblical account in their own language. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1605213146227-BBSNQ73GYQBM2YIJMQZS/TGO_02August2020_Strayer_023.JPG Media Gallery - Laundry Day The laundry is hung over bushes or in the grass to dry in the hot sun after washing. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1605213436532-Y08OY94OFVX6UQLEBRPH/TGO_28Aug2020_Strayer_029.jpg Media Gallery - Meals on Wheels A prayer group in Lome wanted to give a gift of food to the Village of Light School for the Blind. One of the men had been to the school for something about 4 years ago and he and his prayer group felt led to give. They indicated hoping to be able to give again in the future as well. The food this group provided will feed the students for approximately one month. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1605213548594-Z6TZHGMPCW3SZFG4YNB0/TGO_28Aug2020_Strayer_035.jpg Media Gallery - Rice A prayer group in Lome wanted to give a gift of food to the Village of Light School for the Blind. One of the men had been to the school for something about 4 years ago and he and his prayer group felt led to give. They indicated hoping to be able to give again in the future as well. The food this group provided will feed the students for approximately one month. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1605213918448-S3SAQWYY329KXKJ42UA0/TGO_17Sept2020_Strayer_013.jpg Media Gallery - Teaching Teaching Middle school teachers from the Christian schools in Togo attend a 2 week seminar prior to the start of school. Teachers participate in lessons prepared to help them experience how they should teach their own students. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1605213894944-V83T2E2QJEZZN5AEZLGD/TGO_17Sept2020_Strayer_030.jpg Media Gallery - Teaching Teaching 2 Middle school teachers from the Christian schools in Togo attend a 2 week seminar prior to the start of school. Teachers participate in lessons prepared to help them experience how they should teach their own students. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1605214882942-PORTUQHH27DAM8Z8HF8A/TGO_17Sept2020_Strayer_109.jpg Media Gallery - Teaching Teaching 3 Middle school teachers from the Christian schools in Togo attend a 2 week seminar prior to the start of school. Teachers participate in lessons prepared to help them experience how they should teach their own students. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1605215451553-KYTU7ZZZDAPN0DJ9B47E/TGO_04Oct2020_Strayer_008.jpg Media Gallery - Language Translators continue to blow my mind. I am constantly amazed with those who can speak more than one language with fluency. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1605215861950-Q1BS1D5L41ZPGDH8S163/TGO_04Oct2020_Strayer_016.jpg Media Gallery - Tired Sunday? Children spend a Sunday morning playing with and sitting in tires. Churches were still closed at this point so children had another morning to be outdoors. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1605216249503-3F8D4L0OYIIS3N9GEN00/TGO_05Oct2020_Strayer_001.JPG Media Gallery - Salifou Salifou loves children and they love him. When we sat down to do his interview, the kids came over. We had them sit off to the side until we finished and then we had them come over and join the conversation. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1605216535390-N7WK2HP5BK6OBOVDQH0U/TGO_05Oct2020_Strayer_002.JPG Media Gallery - Always Smiling This young man has a foot injury he has been receiving care for and every time we saw each other, he had a great big smile for me! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1605217545564-3FCHZPR6O4O55XUJGCKW/TGO_05Oct2020_Strayer_004.JPG Media Gallery - Scootin' Despite the stabilizer in his leg, this little guy sure can motor on his crutches! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1605217922482-2BV5QC4WPYHMEELA1KLW/TGO_07Oct2020_Strayer_091.jpg Media Gallery - Heading Home This little man was following his mom but he was struggling to keep up. He was walking slowly and also kept looking around at everything. I think he was also probably distracted by the snacks in his bag. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1605218321432-GFNK0RN1LDS03O255KFQ/TGO_08Oct2020_Strayer_009.jpg Media Gallery - Caught You The cuisine is a lodging facility for patients and their family members. Inside are rooms for sleeping and outside is where the majority of the cooking takes place. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1605218754857-TCK6J6VOEUF1MSCGWH0S/TGO_08Oct2020_Strayer_016.jpg Media Gallery - Cooking The cuisine is a lodging facility for patients and their family members. Inside are rooms for sleeping and outside is where the majority of the cooking takes place. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1605218789356-XP4F46N2J1C0C54ZQUA7/TGO_09Oct2020_Strayer_012.jpg Media Gallery - City in Black and White Children don’t always do well with white skin. They’re often afraid of our skin at first, so they keep their distance and often cry. Others are enamored. The guy in the stripes was not a fan, the little girl on the right was pretty indifferent. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1605219180209-ZOX79FV9AWJ4Z5X2L34I/TGO_12October2020_Strayer_410.jpg Media Gallery - Have a Seat The cuisine is a lodging facility for patients and their family members. Inside are rooms for sleeping and outside is where the majority of the cooking takes place. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1605221162676-OW1ND9WEKWA8NC46D038/TGO_12October2020_Strayer_003.jpg Media Gallery - Laughing in Color Laughter and color are among my favorite things about Africa. The jovial nature and culture of the Togolese means the sound of laughter is rarely absent from conversation and the fabric is always busy and vibrant. Life seems a little more vivid in cultures like this. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1605221213980-N5E90Y5TYASCG7F11409/TGO_12October2020_Strayer_017.jpg Media Gallery - Triage Monday Hospital of Hope in Mango, Togo sees an average of 2,000-3,000 patients per month. Patients come from the bordering and neighboring countries and the large influx sometimes means that the “wait time” can be around 13 days! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1605225613489-BXMVAZUKU88WC3TPXGQ0/TGO_12October2020_Strayer_031-2.jpg Media Gallery - Waiting While waiting to be admitted for an appointment, many find a spot on the dirt entryway to await the physician at triage. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1605225548970-JL33EWEEOKWN62ODVMEQ/TGO_12October2020_Strayer_051.jpg Media Gallery - Waiting 2 The lines on Monday morning can stretch quite far while patients wait to be admitted to the hospital. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1605226111589-N40II03W27DWTBC3H0C8/TGO_14October2020_Strayer_032.jpg Media Gallery - Pre-Op Prep Dr. John Briggs preps tools for a sign nail on male patient for right femur fracture. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1605226207035-E3QKQ40FGO9V05JX7V63/TGO_14October2020_Strayer_039.jpg Media Gallery - Prayer First Dr. John Briggs prays before performing a sign nail. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1605226303345-KSZULGU2EYSZM0A3ZXWG/TGO_14October2020_Strayer_041.jpg Media Gallery - Surgery Dr. John Briggs performing a sign nail on male patient for right femur fracture. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1605227346463-WQJODMDH3WWPZ246NQH7/TGO_14October2020_Strayer_049.jpg Media Gallery - Surgery 2 Dr. John Briggs performing a sign nail on male patient for right femur fracture. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1605227586919-S248L9FYKKD36FRL5ZMP/TGO_12Oct2020_Strayer_-52.jpg Media Gallery - The Drop Off Just a few minutes away from the northern hospital there is this gorgeous little drop off. It doesn’t look this green and wet during dry season, so I’m glad I could go during rainy season to get some shots! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1605227692461-07I0YBDFU5HMUYELWSZ2/TGO_12Oct2020_Strayer_-64.jpg Media Gallery - Load the Cart Two young boys help their father steady the donkey while he shovels dirt into the cart from lower down the hill. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1608556433974-SU7AT3KLF63SY7ICQFZS/10Dec2020_Strayer_Hannah046.jpg Media Gallery - Sing Praise Students and Staff at Village of Light School for the Blind in Kpalime, Togo sing praises as they watch the new school van arrive on campus. The center purchased this new van with funds that were raised in just 2 weeks, praise God! This new van has already been put to great use. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1608556326889-WEYBMXIZJTWT8BNU3SM3/10Dec2020_Strayer_Hannah063.jpg Media Gallery - Touch to See A major sense our blind students rely upon is touch. In many ways, their hands become their eyes. Touching things let them “see” in a way we can really only imagine. Here, several boys at Village of Light School for the Blind, touch the new center van to get a sense of what it feels and looks like. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1608556794382-3UNP9PX4HYLGFCUBEB2W/10Dec2020_Strayer_Hannah115.jpg Media Gallery - Ready to Go The students at Village of Light School for the Blind loaded up in several van loads to be given rides around campus in the new van. While the students were thrilled to be IN the new van, our staff was also thrilled to be able to take pictures to share with family and friends about the blessing God provided in getting this van to Togo. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1608557981741-KM7KNRP5NRMBQNOEQDL9/18Dec2020_Strayer_Hannah008.jpg Media Gallery - Christmas is Coming Village of Light School of the Blind Christmas gathering. The staff and students gathered for the announcement of test results in each class, the attestation of two students, and gifts from Kristy and Rory Moore. After that the staff celebrated the retirement of two teachers, received their own gifts from Kristy and Rory, and then everyone enjoyed a special lunch. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1608556725652-AARVYO7XSK829E17BZ53/10Dec2020_Strayer_Hannah145.jpg Media Gallery - Happy Descent Students at Village of Light School for the Blind step out of the van, ecstatic, after their first ride around the campus in the new center van. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1608557710014-0ULKSZ7LRKY31J6CRYQM/18Dec2020_Strayer_Hannah050.jpg Media Gallery - Evaluation Marks Village of Light School of the Blind Christmas gathering. The staff and students gathered for the announcement of test results in each class, the attestation of two students, and gifts from Kristy and Rory Moore. After that the staff celebrated the retirement of two teachers, received their own gifts from Kristy and Rory, and then everyone enjoyed a special lunch. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1608558036988-WOJ1L6XW9Q5Z4Q17NUA3/18Dec2020_Strayer_Hannah181.jpg Media Gallery - Bearing Gifts Village of Light School of the Blind Christmas gathering. The staff and students gathered for the announcement of test results in each class, the attestation of two students, and gifts from Kristy and Rory Moore. After that the staff celebrated the retirement of two teachers, received their own gifts from Kristy and Rory, and then everyone enjoyed a special lunch. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1608558261931-87A7316AQF0J0O46XG2Q/18Dec2020_Strayer_Hannah361.jpg Media Gallery - 3 "French" Hens Village of Light School of the Blind Christmas gathering. The staff and students gathered for the announcement of test results in each class, the attestation of two students, and gifts from Kristy and Rory Moore. After that the staff celebrated the retirement of two teachers, received their own gifts from Kristy and Rory, and then everyone enjoyed a special lunch. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1608559149482-901K0XSTZ9MIHOFNMY73/18Dec2020_Strayer_Hannah452.jpg Media Gallery - Lunch is Served Village of Light School of the Blind Christmas gathering. The staff and students gathered for the announcement of test results in each class, the attestation of two students, and gifts from Kristy and Rory Moore. After that the staff celebrated the retirement of two teachers, received their own gifts from Kristy and Rory, and then everyone enjoyed a special lunch. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1608559124060-90GWDDS8XNY1A0EHJZMC/18Dec2020_Strayer_Hannah581.jpg Media Gallery - Special Things Village of Light School of the Blind Christmas gathering. The staff and students gathered for the announcement of test results in each class, the attestation of two students, and gifts from Kristy and Rory Moore. After that the staff celebrated the retirement of two teachers, received their own gifts from Kristy and Rory, and then everyone enjoyed a special lunch. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1608650818966-YXY3085N726YGC30987A/21Dec2020_Strayer_Hannah007.jpg Media Gallery - Moon Shadows The moon ran and I chased him, up the mountain and down, until he flitted behind the trees and disappeared from view. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1608651166041-TFRK2GJ8HEOUNNUQGH5A/21Dec2020_Strayer_Hannah012.jpg Media Gallery - Moonset The moon may have been behind the mountain, but you can see his glow if you wait patiently enough for the shutter to close. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1609679048148-SN98BLFLED2VWRIYBO7L/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Time to Harvest Workers head to the field to harvest yams that were planted back in April 2020. It is a long growing process - nearly as long as pregnancy - for these yams which are part of staple foods in many West African countries. The various types of yams are used to make things like fufu, koliko, and other dishes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1609679414117-7SGFEL7LCD6VJVYLOQJ0/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Chop Chop The yam mounds have to be cleared of weeds and grass that have grown over them in the last 8 months. This process of cleaning makes it easier to hoe up the yams and remove them from the soil. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1609679592557-ZRSA1A23UONFCR4HAF5J/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Hoeing To remove the yams from their mounds, the earth must be hoed up. One must be somewhat gentle so as not to chop up the yam while searching for it though. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1609679778077-TLO6IW74CYXY6LJ2MC8Y/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Found Yams can be located by uncovering a spidery web of roots which must be cut and then the yam can be gently dug around in order to remove it more easily. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1609680015898-2JZJPA6D5I8IFQZESU78/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Hard Work This yam harvest took nearly 3 full hours of backbreaking work for the crew of 3 or 4 men. They began early in morning to try and avoid working too long in the blazing West African sun since few clouds offer respite. Larger fields require both workers and more time. Once the yams are all dug up, they are pulled from the field and piled up next to a raised platform - also built by the men - being eaten or sold. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1609680274335-E4E71UISSHDH224DCLZY/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Stacking The yams are stacked on the raised platforms in piles. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611576171195-JL0E8KI3GNR5JU6YWFD4/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - First Moon Took the evening to capture the first moon of 2021 as it lit the sky. One thing the evening light does well is give the mystery for profundity. The palm trees shadowing the moon give a sense of something with no tell tale signs of location. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611576682090-N8OJ4W1ZYGW0IFXVFF1L/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Teaching in Color Jane Schmitz teaches a small class to a group of teenage boys and girls in her church “Pain de la Vie” (Bread of Life) on Bible Study Methods. She used a color coded verse to show them the different parts of a sentence that they might see how what the verse is saying in order to understand it better. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611576822204-MQOYKVWBYPLUWA9MTGC0/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Attention A larger group of younger students attended Jane’s class. She had the pastor of the church work with them during the group activity as they answered specific questions about the Bible verse for that week. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611579157097-QIVEJ09SW7Q2020633ZF/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Sleeping The littlest of attendees to Jane’s class could not stay awake. This little one took his nap undisturbed on the floor. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611579501384-65SKKNPIB3O2LNNAJVCK/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Sunrise An early morning walk up a small mountain in the city of Kara led to this gorgeous sunrise. The colors were soft just days before the Harmattan dust settled in the air. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611579640140-NFKS8MC5K6ETDNQLUIBF/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - In the Field One should rarely turn down an invitation, especially when it’s to make a photo. These two Kabiye boys were out working in the fields already at 6:30am and beckoned for the camera. They posed while I shot and giggled when they saw themselves from across the riverbank when I showed them the image. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611579800518-ZCSXUQS1KTRR5E13QEED/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Baobab Fruits The broken shells of the baobab fruit are full of fibrous string that hold in the white chalky “seeds”. One can suck the powdery coating off which is sweet to the taste or simply crush it into powder to sell. Under the white coating is a hard black seed which can be peeled to reveal a small macaroni like inside. Baobab is used for many things in West African cuisine. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611579935080-HLSV6BQGVG7XB3M9TH64/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Going to School Boys walking to school in Kara, Togo. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611580068452-YNWK0JMBQOD3K3DA88BU/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Second Sunrise The second sunrise I was awake for in Kara, Togo. Again I walked up the mountain part way. We walked faster this time so I didn’t catch the softness of the first light, but caught the warmth of the glow on the descent through the tall grass. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611580241702-91W4FHW41IETV3L8M99O/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Heading Home We never found out where this guy had been, but his descent down the mountain was part of the journey home at 6:45am. He would walk a bit, and then pause to turn and watch us follow slowly behind. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611580363294-P60RFNOG6QAJH0CZG3EL/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Arrival This building stands empty on the way up the mountain, but by the time I would descend, it was filling up with people. Some women stir big tubs of food and serve it to their young customers before they begin their school day. Others are just full of adults or children sitting and chatting for a while in the early morning sun. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611580534893-RXRYAC699LPPNOM81C88/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Loaded Up While the total duration of her walk is still unknown to me, I did watch this lady leave her home with her large food bin on her head and her baby strapped on her back. I followed her from a distance, walking nearly parallel to her. Eventually her road intersected with mine and she came out ahead. It is quite possible that she walked nearly 1 mile to sell her goods to some students arriving at school. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611580727138-ZLOF5FZF7H07KH06CA5E/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Tasbih (or Subha) A tasbih, or subha, is a rope of prayer beads used by Muslims. Typical tasbihs have 99 identical beads separated by larger beads into sections of 33. The 99 represents the 99 names of Allah. Each set of 33 beads is used to recite a different part of prayer. The woman using this tasbih said she first recites a prayer of pardon, then she recites the praise to Allah, and finally she ends with the claim that Allah is great. Prayer beads differ in size, texture, shape, and color. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611580893879-HI6TL259FJAEY8B1Q23H/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Ablutions Before times of prayer, a Muslim is to wash in order to be presented clean before Allah. They wash their hands and feet before washing their faces. It is not just the face that is washed but also the nostrils, ears, and inside of the mouth. Once washed, a Muslim may pray. Many go to a mosque to pray if possible while others remain at home, or simply find an out of the way area. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611581073515-R0B028BXX31JMFUHHYLX/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Prayer Beads The house where I was has many people living there. On the wall outside the door is a nail filled with different sets of prayer beads. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611581280178-MJS6WQZCVUHA4407CD5U/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Prayer There are many different postures of prayer in Islamic prayers. They stand, they bow, they kneel, they place their forehead on the floor while kneeling. The hands also have many positions. Sometimes they stay at the sides, sometimes they cross at the chest, sometimes they are held out flat, sometimes they wave toward the face, and here they nearly cover the face. Also, Muslims pray during their five daily prayers facing Mecca. They pray on prayer mats which, like the tasbihs, vary in size, shape, and color. Regardless of design though, they always are to face Mecca. On this prayer mat used here, you can see the image of the Kabba - the holy place of Islam. Muslims are to make a pilgrimage - if they have the means - to Mecca at least once. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611581622299-N0DDJTTCRO1MCX9G8QSF/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Faces of Africa Africa - as any nation - is not just land. Africa is full of people. These people are hardworking, kind, and happy. They struggle and toil as we all do and they face their own joys and hardships. Individually they are who they are, but united, they are Africa. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611581808489-CXQD59Z20GIXK2P49FP1/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Faces of Africa 2 Africa - as any nation - is not just land. Africa is full of people. These people are hardworking, kind, and happy. They struggle and toil as we all do and they face their own joys and hardships. Individually they are who they are, but united, they are Africa. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611582046409-Q49M8ZBKVCR2ATD9YHMX/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Faces of Africa 3 Africa - as any nation - is not just land. Africa is full of people. These people are hardworking, kind, and happy. They struggle and toil as we all do and they face their own joys and hardships. Individually they are who they are, but united, they are Africa. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611582262920-QFNJKEWRNFM3PQDL195B/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Faces of Africa 4 Africa - as any nation - is not just land. Africa is full of people. These people are hardworking, kind, and happy. They struggle and toil as we all do and they face their own joys and hardships. Individually they are who they are, but united, they are Africa. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611748936259-X7OQX4EES731KBTOQMVC/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Faces of Africa 5 She received her diploma in Benin for weaving. Now she has a workshop with about 20 young ladies who are doing a 2 year apprenticeship to learn how to weave. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611749582159-2L7INPF0FKUSPG68RJHM/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Faces of Africa 6 The Fulani people are a nomadic people well-known for their cattle farming. They practice a Folk Islam which mixes traditional Islamic practices with practices from ancestor and spirit worship. Often the Fulani do not allow you to take their picture for fear that you are stealing their soul, but after asking this man several times to be sure he understood what I was asking (we do not speak the same language so it was all gestures and giggles) I was finally able to get an image of shepherd and cattle. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611749888201-189OG72NKF0UAEUY11IP/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Faces of Africa 7 Her son was not a fan of me at all. But she welcomed my friend Jane and I into the house to talk and also offered a traditional dish of food that consisted of rice, beans, a spicy sauce, and a side of deep fried cow’s cheese. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611750079469-KRGR9M16NGCB71DKLJ1V/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Faces of Africa 8 Work can be hard to find, even for the college educated. This young man studied at the University of Kara. Now he is looking for work. Unsure of what he would do in his home city, he is moving to Kara to attempt to work at selling some various goods using people in the community to move his products of soy and other grains and beans. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611750294272-FR27XEX33QHNO4U0657Q/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Faces of Africa 9 He’s a farmer who learned his English in Ghana. Currently he has cashew and grapefruit trees to be harvested regularly. While we visited with him, he laughed as he told stories of his own and listened to ours. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611750400477-J6RNR5H04I46MZAJLO2L/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Faces of Africa 10 I did not have much time to chat with her because she was out on an errand while we visited with her husband (the farmer in the previous picture), but I enjoyed her company. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611750590176-PE2QHKC65E0PP41F2E90/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Faces of Africa 11 A call to prayer initially occupied this hardware store owner when we arrived but once he finished we were able to greet him and capture him in his environment before heading home for the night. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611750726224-0H2FI22COBUYGV6EUF7T/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Faces of Africa 12 After a health class taught by Jane Schmitz at a local clinic, the village chief exited the building. He had come in for a check up so I took advantage of the meeting and snapped this photo to present to him later on. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611750995761-X3HPKNZ4KIVA32I46NAH/20Jan2021_Strayer_Hannah062.jpg Media Gallery - African Civet This unusual looking animal is called a civet and is found in many parts of Africa. It is omnivorous and is one of few animals that can eat toxic prey like termites and millipedes. Likely this one was chased from its home by a harmattan fire where it was spotted and killed. Civets are commonly used for a gland which secretes a waxy substance used in perfumes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611750962453-IB25YCEEEPTZZF9CDMDU/20Jan2021_Strayer_Hannah217.jpg Media Gallery - Okra Okra is sliced thin and put in a bowl to be tossed on the large Tom Tom rock. The sun dries the okra and it can then be gathered up to be sold in market later on. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611751036101-KE6V97AMDWOI3VO83PIY/20Jan2021_Strayer_Hannah338.jpg Media Gallery - "Foreigner" The word has its form in nearly every language. When you visibly look like a foreigner, you hear it called after you often. As I walked through market, I heard the familiar word and turned to see the person repeatedly yelling it and found this woman who was very excited to have her photo taken. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611751655460-WMMAUYU1VR45W43UV7BV/20Jan2021_Strayer_Hannah378.jpg Media Gallery - Beignets A cast iron beignet pan holds hot oil and is heated over a clay oven with a corn cob and wood fed fire. The beignets are fried and sold along the street in the evenings as a snack. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611751081956-AHLFQSQ2CL57VUBZJVTW/20Jan2021_Strayer_Hannah377.jpg Media Gallery - Personality She was full of personality as I circles around her while she made her beignets. Traditionally, in the evenings the women in the area prepare the dough, heat the pan, and fry up some tasty dough to be eaten. As I took some photos she was yelling at the kids to stay back from the fire and laughing at her own jokes as she told me I better pay her something for the pictures and videos. (I did buy some beignets and they were awesome!) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611751073257-V64F1HTRAC5K8DFLKFS5/20Jan2021_Strayer_Hannah355.jpg Media Gallery - Gaggle of Giggles The camera tends to be a draw in many places. Kids and adults alike are often fascinated by seeing themselves on the LCD screen after the photo has been made. It is usually a fun thing to see how they want themselves to be captured and how they react upon seeing the image later. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611752636154-N37X79JO05BAUNCVK2U0/21Jan2021_Strayer_Hannah039.jpg Media Gallery - Pause This little guy had just spilled most of his breakfast on the ground after dropping the thermos it was in. His mom was pretty mad but he is super cute so she probably was not mad for too long. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611752610543-GJLSUG8A9XH9KYV3A63Y/21Jan2021_Strayer_Hannah085.jpg Media Gallery - Bread Baking This large, domed clay oven is heated and used to bake breads. These trays have 100 franc (about 20 cent) loaves on them. Others can be much larger. The breads are prepared in the house and put on a tray which is carried outside to where the hot oven waits. When it’s the right temperature (you just go by feel), the bread is put in and monitored until it’s golden and delicious. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611752688335-RZILWXQV1TNBU1KBXT19/21Jan2021_Strayer_Hannah088.jpg Media Gallery - Laundry Lady She literally had bucket loads of work to do that day. This lady had to wash that whole giant pile of laundry by hand since washing machines are both expensive and uncommon in many areas. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611752712601-EP0KQ9O78O4OFMZE67TQ/21Jan2021_Strayer_Hannah212.jpg Media Gallery - Tea Time Muslim men typically take a rest time in the afternoon and drink a strong brew of sweet green tea. During this time they sit and chat with one another. Even though I am a woman, the guys were happy to let me taste the tea so I could see what it was like. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611752795837-27R6M73X8N9P8Y9EJIXQ/22Jan2021_Strayer_Hannah071.jpg Media Gallery - Baby Back African woman use spare pieces of fabric to wrap up their little ones on their backs. This method of baby toting keeps the hands free to do other things and allows the moms to move around rather freely as well. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611752807147-CLY09F4RVGVQVDSTBYOW/22Jan2021_Strayer_Hannah094.jpg Media Gallery - Moringa Jane taught a class at a local clinic on the benefits of moringa. She teaches monthly on a different topic. In explaining about moringa, the women were given a moringa seed as well as a taste of the powder and were taught about how it can be used in drinks and foods. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611752881068-I8COJBM313MZ6EOOF0PD/22Jan2021_Strayer_Hannah134.jpg Media Gallery - I Like Your Hat “I like your hat, can I take a photo?”. Well, he found that funny, but agreed to it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611752885751-S4S0JSTQ5DVH6TJP2T3H/22Jan2021_Strayer_Hannah229.jpg Media Gallery - Happily, Hungrily Waiting A bull elephant waits to be fed orange slices and chunks of cabbage at the reserve in Sarakawa, Togo. The elephants were a gift to former president Eyadéma Gnassingbé. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611752980761-CSEYLXJ5OFFKAWJPD4EU/22Jan2021_Strayer_Hannah297.jpg Media Gallery - Head to Head The two cow elephants stood head to head slowly peeling leaves off of branches. They were possibly attempting to block out the bull who likes to be a bit of a pest. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611752979660-ITE2EQYIP1Y7VVJQJQK0/22Jan2021_Strayer_Hannah401.jpg Media Gallery - Rumble The handler blew into the elephants trunk and when he finished the bull let out a low rumble which reminded me of a cat’s purr…but louder and with more bass. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1614272615804-JQBBC0G977QHXLG3KRNQ/TGO_02Feb2021_Strayer_001.jpg Media Gallery - Harmattan Morning On Tuesdays my neighbor and I have decided to go on photo walks around the paths behind Village of Light School for the Blind. Our first Tuesday we still had a beauty of a dusty sun rising in the harmattan sky. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1614272614241-2646RYVK0Y71DISANESY/TGO_02Feb2021_Strayer_135.jpg Media Gallery - Under Pressure Manioc (cassava, yuca) is pressed and ground into flour. These bamboo poles steady the tightly tied sacks which contain the manioc as the rocks press down on them pushing out the water and drying the manioc to be ground into flour. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1614272676286-U179A68OX0MLJG7SOOHC/TGO_09Feb2021_Strayer_006.jpg Media Gallery - Heading to School A few students head to class at Village of Light School for the Blind. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1614272660375-94E8L45KIE5HHDAMC0SY/TGO_09Feb2021_Strayer_014.jpg Media Gallery - Heading to School 2 Students head to school in large groups on a Tuesday morning. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1614272724889-OEBD8C7B9BBPWWFLOHBY/TGO_09Feb2021_Strayer_076.jpg Media Gallery - Hie Ho Hie Ho A man heads to work in the fields carrying his machete in hand. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1614272744563-2SVA81EKKU7DQ68KXU5P/TGO_09Feb2021_Strayer_107.jpg Media Gallery - It's Off to Work We Go Women are often see heading off to market in the early morning hours. Those with babies, simply tie them onto their backs, load up the day’s goods, and head on down the path till they reach their market stalls. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1614272789408-IO5ZYB9ZHEQ1LCWFU2LS/TGO_23Feb2021_Strayer_018.jpg Media Gallery - The Neighbor's One of the neighboring homes behind the Village of the Light School for the Blind. No one was home that day, but usually there are several folks out talking as they get ready to go about their day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1614272788189-T93NW2ON1X7NRVPI7Z1W/TGO_23Feb2021_Strayer_062.jpg Media Gallery - Shameplant The Shameplant is also known scientifically as the mimosa pudica. If you touch the fern like leaves or shake the plant, the leaves will close in on themselves to protect themselves from harm. The blossoms they have are also far from shameful. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1615809611453-UTGTNNNA9NLZUSDGF68Z/TGO_03Mar2021_Strayer_012.jpg Media Gallery - Bedhead A plant stretches toward the rays of sun streaming in as the sun lifts higher in the sky, the dew from the previous evening not yet burned off. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1615809568706-A21JWJN2GWWMT93JF3P9/TGO_03Mar2021_Strayer_013.jpg Media Gallery - Seed Pods Empty seed pods of a tree along the path. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1615809877822-669XCS2ESRQXXRKT7FPX/TGO_03Mar2021_Strayer_046.jpg Media Gallery - The Color of Tuesday This beautiful orange blossom of color against the vibrant green of its surroundings was a real eye catcher. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1615809906231-15U6ZR35EJYUOYV3TT8B/TGO_03Mar2021_Strayer_053.jpg Media Gallery - Rural Alarm Clock A rooster stands on a dirt mound just outside the home of a nearby neighbor. He was not making any noise at this time, but everyone had probably already been roused by him about 2-3 hours prior. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1615823845207-1VABZKW5MWDIN3CJ7OJA/TGO_12Mar2021_Strayer_014.jpg Media Gallery - Early Risers The Togolese are early risers and they get to work quickly. Many wake around 4 or 5AM and begin working around their homes. The women tend to sweep and begin preparing meals. The men ready themselves to head to the fields or to their other jobs. They work full days in the hot sun resting during the insufferable afternoon hours of 12-2PM before returning to work for the evening. As many do not have electricity, “bedtime” is earlier than one might think. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1615823921852-Y9YJ8IJUEQ081G9VP60W/TGO_12Mar2021_Strayer_035.jpg Media Gallery - Three Ananas Pineapples grow one fruit per plant on spiky leafed plants as you see here. As the fruit blossoms it has a shocking red tinge which fades as it grows larger. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1615824102939-Q5D6GWGGHG5NWMNNKM7C/TGO_12Mar2021_Strayer_045.jpg Media Gallery - Bamboo Root Bamboo is used for a variety of things in West Africa. It can serve as fencing, bridge material, ladders, soccer goal posts, plant and tree supports, and much much more. It is also common to see motorcycles driving down the road with loads of bamboo tied to the back. Here is the base of some recently cut bamboo. The roots are a fine, intricate grouping of strands. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1615824056282-IHFRLQY73VSY2166RU7O/TGO_12Mar2021_Strayer_063.jpg Media Gallery - The Ants Go Marching Nasty, ferocious, painful little beasts these are. If you see a line like this, it is definitely one you do not want to step on! Army ants are determined and methodical. When disturbed, they are ruthless and those bites are PAINFUL. If you want more info on these wicked little creatures, click here! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1616409616192-1IJX5X6G53111ZKKI140/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Morning A woman sets up her stall to sell food to those on their way to work while a young girl carries on a conversation with some of her friends across the road on their way to school. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1616410030159-G91Q4FX8MQMVDG9NI2GJ/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Palm Wine A jug collects the liquid of the palm tree that is used for making palm wine. The liquid can be collected from various types of palms. It is my understanding that this wine can be either sweet or more sour depending on how long it ages. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1616410229535-5WXIBYAPCHH61P5LV8ER/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Is There a Joke Here? Why did the chickens cross the road? Well, turns out they were just trying to run away from us. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1616410325674-46S3HCW110LW33MAIO6D/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - The Family "Car" A family drives through town on their moto. This is a very common sight in many countries where cars are expensive and motos are more affordable. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1616410501030-UXTJ346ZWPVGAPWAOT2C/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Improv Illustration At event hosted by Living Hope 4:4 in Kpime Woume, one of the teachers shares a visual illustration to accompany their lesson on Adam and Eve. Since he didn’t have a tree or a fruit, he used himself and the water bag to show how Adam and Eve simply picked the fruit and ate it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1616410660108-4JTG59T6EXC61XMENX8K/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Bag Hat Normally in the USA these types of bags come with warnings emblazoned on them in several languages stating something like, “suffocation hazard: keep out of reach of children”. These kiddos decided these t-shirt bags would make fun hats though. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1617019544938-SC8PK9W8CCWPFXRYGLIL/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Writing Students in the kindergarten class at Village of Light School for the Blind practice their Braille writing. All students usually must begin in “kindergarten” regardless of their age to learn the Braille reading and writing system. If they already know Braille then they are able to be placed in their respective class, if not, they must wait to go through kindergarten first. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1617019721049-IOGPNHHXH19H4E4OVPCN/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Diagrams in Relief Tactile and sensory tools are used to teach blind students about things which they cannot see. This classroom has systems of the body outlined on the walls in materials of varying texture so that the students can feel how the different systems are put together. The maps on the wall are designed for the same purpose having textures for climates and topography. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1617019864165-N2WBSMD5QZVCNJKSXQGY/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Atelier Atelier (workshop) is designed for students to learn vocational skills. One thing the students make often are woven chairs. The technique is taught and practiced as students cane new chairs or repair old ones. They use the same weaving skills to create benches, tables, swings, and stools as well. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1617020008184-V0Q0SA1IC1C9MACJJCNF/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Atelier 2 Atelier (workshop) is designed for students to learn vocational skills. One thing the students make often are woven chairs. The technique is taught and practiced as students cane new chairs or repair old ones. They use the same weaving skills to create benches, tables, swings, and stools as well. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1617020338706-EBYOYFIW1DOOSV447M8V/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Dormitory This is one of the bedrooms for the girls at Village of Light. This room, as you may guess by the slight chaos, is where the younger girls are staying. Currently the girls share 3 rooms among themselves since there are only 12 of them this year. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1617020217947-NW7II0PA4NS394CCGTOH/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Bible Study On Thursday nights, the girls at Village of Light School for the Blind gather around a table and are led in a Bible study or devotional by some of the ladies on campus. The girls love to sing and they were very excited when the visitors that came that evening sung songs in English that they also knew in French and/or Ewe. The night looked like it could have easily turned in to a full out song battle, but eventually the girls had to go to sleep! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1617020578273-T7IO2LW2MQZAU4ZFQ3XE/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - VoL Fun Day Every year around Easter break, the students are given a day off from classes and studying to play games. This year some visiting friends from the US were able to prepare some games for the students to play in addition to the ones the staff chose for them. They participated in different relays, a scavenger hunt, and tug o’ war. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1617020708823-3NTFCIESIGST8BG24PT4/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - VoL Fun Day 2 Every year around Easter break, the students are given a day off from classes and studying to play games. This year some visiting friends from the US were able to prepare some games for the students to play in addition to the ones the staff chose for them. They participated in different relays, a scavenger hunt, and tug o’ war. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1617020877128-7D2RCLT2S2HUMBS8M486/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - VoL Fun Day 3 Every year around Easter break, the students are given a day off from classes and studying to play games. This year some visiting friends from the US were able to prepare some games for the students to play in addition to the ones the staff chose for them. They participated in different relays, a scavenger hunt, and tug o’ war. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1617021023159-2E8RGZPM1MH9V6BQMKZ2/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - VoL Fun Day 4 Every year around Easter break, the students are given a day off from classes and studying to play games. This year some visiting friends from the US were able to prepare some games for the students to play in addition to the ones the staff chose for them. They participated in different relays, a scavenger hunt, and tug o’ war. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1617021168866-PZ7YVCW1TUZRCOTDW9XX/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - VoL Fund Day 5 Every year around Easter break, the students are given a day off from classes and studying to play games. This year some visiting friends from the US were able to prepare some games for the students to play in addition to the ones the staff chose for them. They participated in different relays, a scavenger hunt, and tug o’ war. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1617021326277-3WI9LJV21FDUT7X5BMUA/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - VoL Fun Day 6 Every year around Easter break, the students are given a day off from classes and studying to play games. This year some visiting friends from the US were able to prepare some games for the students to play in addition to the ones the staff chose for them. They participated in different relays, a scavenger hunt, and tug o’ war. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1617021703663-U5M8JPCWRZUYM05YJZVM/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - VoL Fun Day 7 Every year around Easter break, the students are given a day off from classes and studying to play games. This year some visiting friends from the US were able to prepare some games for the students to play in addition to the ones the staff chose for them. They participated in different relays, a scavenger hunt, and tug o’ war. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1617021886198-E7BXWKHAMS5T12QUZQ66/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - VoL Fun Day 8 Every year around Easter break, the students are given a day off from classes and studying to play games. This year some visiting friends from the US were able to prepare some games for the students to play in addition to the ones the staff chose for them. They participated in different relays, a scavenger hunt, and tug o’ war. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1617022104020-KBJUH0NECXT3YP9B61FD/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - VoL Fun Day 9 Every year around Easter break, the students are given a day off from classes and studying to play games. This year some visiting friends from the US were able to prepare some games for the students to play in addition to the ones the staff chose for them. They participated in different relays, a scavenger hunt, and tug o’ war. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1617022243655-STCIBH2X60NWCGG3N0P7/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - VoL Fun Day 10 Every year around Easter break, the students are given a day off from classes and studying to play games. This year some visiting friends from the US were able to prepare some games for the students to play in addition to the ones the staff chose for them. They participated in different relays, a scavenger hunt, and tug o’ war. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1617022398810-JXOKY9J34VHYWOUR52QL/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - VoL Fun Day 11 Every year around Easter break, the students are given a day off from classes and studying to play games. This year some visiting friends from the US were able to prepare some games for the students to play in addition to the ones the staff chose for them. They participated in different relays, a scavenger hunt, and tug o’ war. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1617022661896-82BFEA7K4IJ9PD2W0PLF/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - VoL Fun Day 12 Every year around Easter break, the students are given a day off from classes and studying to play games. This year some visiting friends from the US were able to prepare some games for the students to play in addition to the ones the staff chose for them. They participated in different relays, a scavenger hunt, and tug o’ war. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1617044607830-4BJWF5X6VKAGO0VRGAT7/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Slip-n-Slide After the morning games, the students had lunch and then took their rest time. But the afternoon held the most excitement yet! The slip-n-slide was a fan favorite and the kids had a blast getting wet and soapy to cool off from the heat of the day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1617043858375-INNOU8O1IYYM6FZ9GDO6/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Find Your Way Each kid tried to find the way that worked best for them to make it the farthest down the slide. Some hit their knees (literally), some took to the stomach luge, others just fell down. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1617043999202-MTPAW6LHOIIIYGM7ERIL/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Look Out Below! At one point the chaos mounted quite high and kids were just running to get on the slide. There were collisions and pile ups and wipeouts. Thankfully no one was seriously injured during our day of fun though! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1617044156657-NDXKSEPB0ZJ98WFUK5OS/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Unexpected Some of the kids had plans to do something stylish on the slide, but fell victim to the soap slick mat early on. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1617045615282-75LGA7Q4DX6T1LB2WULL/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Timber! These two mastered the art of the Slip quite well. It always looked and sounded painful when they hit, but they kept going down so it must not have been too bad. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1617044781060-3KFU7RJZ0PJJZ6KNS1MT/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Running Starts Some of the students got the hang of the slide better than others (it helps when they have some sight in comparison to the students who are completely blind) and were brave enough to take some big leaps on the way. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1617045059417-NR99TVXP1RZGPB8XFIN5/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - How Far? These two were among the ones who made it the farthest on every slide. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1617045359319-OE6YS5HN3XK53DP8XB3E/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Jumped Track Not all the kids could keep in the middle of the slide. Some slid off too soon and others slipped early on. The biggest trouble though was for the students who have less sight than others and couldn’t tell where the mat was to begin with except by the feel on their feet. This guy made it down a few times by corkscrewing to stay on the slide, but eventually he just kept angling down the left slant and rolling into the grass too soon. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1617045220226-6KPXRY29EMYWWOQXKBCN/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Lightweight This little guy kept getting about halfway before his lightweight body could not carry him any further. So, eventually I took a post in the spot where he stopped and gave him a big push down the second half so he could enjoy the whole ride. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1622109812555-TE69W9O6D6O5Z5UDX94A/TGO_09Apr2021_Strayer_0023_fullres.jpg Media Gallery - Cacao Pod Cacao pods grow from blossomed flowers that bloom directly off the trunks and branches of cacao trees. This is a juvenile pod among other blossoms that have not yet formed pods. West Africa is one of the largest exporters of the cacao used in chocolate production (such as Hershey’s for example). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1622109818783-ONPQHB71MJXRCYKU5DTZ/TGO_09Apr2021_Strayer_0034_fullres.jpg Media Gallery - Kola Nut Inside a small, bumpy, firm green pod, are white bean shaped nuts. Beneath the white film is a magenta colored “nut” known as the kola nut which is a natural form of caffeine. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1622109991197-LE81AGFH80SJ0PTYD5T6/TGO_09Apr2021_Strayer_0044_fullres.jpg Media Gallery - Wires or Vines? These vine coils looked exactly like coils of wire and required a second look. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1622109995956-HV7NNA4MDADRK0GT22UL/TGO_09Apr2021_Strayer_0047_fullres.jpg Media Gallery - Muscade English speakers would know this as nutmeg. This is the pod in which nutmeg is contained before it is harvested and ground into powder. Expedit, a local artist who uses plants and rocks to make natural paints, hosts tours in a small village up the mountain above the Village of Light School for the Blind campus. His work has become his livelihood. On the way he teaches groups about plants and nature, shows the waterfalls, demonstrates how he makes his paints, uses his paints to draw on people, and sells his artwork. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1622110091471-UOKLUUZ6H8CCWRM3Y8ZK/TGO_09Apr2021_Strayer_0079_fullres.jpg Media Gallery - Free Samples Expedit, a local artist who uses plants and rocks to make natural paints, hosts tours in a small village up the mountain above the Village of Light School for the Blind campus. His work has become his livelihood. On the way he teaches groups about plants and nature, shows the waterfalls, demonstrates how he makes his paints, uses his paints to draw on people, and sells his artwork. Here Expedit is teaching the group about cassava showing them where it is grown, how to dig it up, and then letting them try some. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1622109752467-CJJ1XKF3T91UJGRXGWGB/TGO_09Apr2021_Strayer_0444_fullres.jpg Media Gallery - Point of Entry Expedit, a local artist who uses plants and rocks to make natural paints, hosts tours in a small village up the mountain above the Village of Light School for the Blind campus. His work has become his livelihood. On the way he teaches groups about plants and nature, shows the waterfalls, demonstrates how he makes his paints, uses his paints to draw on people, and sells his artwork. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1622109750342-FX2BNMRE0F68S9LWOD85/TGO_09Apr2021_Strayer_0346_fullres.jpg Media Gallery - Serene Energy The waterfall produces a serene environment yet the children were full of energy! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1622110085217-9AOEBJ545RSEFJXWAA6X/TGO_09Apr2021_Strayer_0103_fullres.jpg Media Gallery - Cascade d'Expedit Expedit, a local artist who uses plants and rocks to make natural paints, hosts tours in a small village up the mountain above the Village of Light School for the Blind campus. His work has become his livelihood. On the way he teaches groups about plants and nature, shows the waterfalls, demonstrates how he makes his paints, uses his paints to draw on people, and sells his artwork. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1622110286066-8NOO8MRZ9L7BIFAN6ZXB/TGO_09Apr2021_Strayer_0112_fullres.jpg Media Gallery - The Gallery Near the waterfall, Expedit displays his natural paint canvases for groups to view and purchase. The tour itself costs roughly $2 per person and additional income is raised through the sale of these beautiful works of art. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1622110257874-YUITX72VBFJTBANCCBT6/TGO_09Apr2021_Strayer_0248_fullres.jpg Media Gallery - Earth's Palette Expedit, a local artist who uses plants and rocks to make natural paints, hosts tours in a small village up the mountain above the Village of Light School for the Blind campus. His work has become his livelihood. On the way he teaches groups about plants and nature, shows the waterfalls, demonstrates how he makes his paints, uses his paints to draw on people, and sells his artwork. On the rock to the right in the image, Expedit extracts vibrant colors from leaves and tree bark. To the left, a rock is made wet and then stones are rubbed against it to produce shades of red and brown and gray. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1622110315951-BB31PSI5UUUBF8A6X2LT/TGO_09Apr2021_Strayer_0291_fullres.jpg Media Gallery - Rockin' Colors As explained in the last image, these colors are produced from the friction of rock upon wet rock. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1622111378066-Y8Y3ODA4644VL1WNCYWK/TGO_09Apr2021_Strayer_0466_fullres.jpg Media Gallery - Life in the Village Following Expedit’s tour to the waterfalls, he walks the groups through the small village toward their vehicle. Many of the men, women, and children are out chatting, working, and playing. These women enjoy a shady patch while they tend their small “snack shop” and do laundry. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1622111654456-72MXUJW7Q5XYG0PR0XLC/STR_5266_fullres.jpg Media Gallery - Time to Eat The intricacies of spiderwebs are always fascinating yet it is rather rare (in my experience) to get to watch the spider wrap up and prepare to eat his prey. Here a spider has caught a butterfly for lunch. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1622111956634-RAEY4SCACL0KQJ2FOXKU/TGO_28Apr2021_Strayer_0568.jpg Media Gallery - Kpalime One of the mountains near the Village of Light Blind School in Kpalime, Togo. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1622114626779-OJVRFZYCOJTBOLBJTE7V/DSC_1933-2.jpg Media Gallery - Blossoms Little flowers blossoming on the hillside. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1622114671924-OG3241DBP68JIB82DGZD/DSC_1951-3.jpg Media Gallery - Fading Life In the fading light of the evening I stumbled upon this wilting branch with its last vibrant sign of life clinging to it; the simple orange flower petals created a beautiful contrast to the earth tones around it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1622114482382-2TDWHQURABVAW3V2JD6Z/DSC_1911-2.jpg Media Gallery - After the Rain Fellow photographer, Judy Bowen and I took our photography 1 class on a little “field trip” to watch the sunset across the land bridge. We almost skipped the trip because we were nervous the rain would ruin the time. But we decided to make the journey up the mountain. The sun was pretty when we arrived, though not as stellar as we had hoped. But the next image shows you that waiting around can pay off! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1622114545452-XJZ48BPO8HMO4YIIAN24/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Sunset Panorama As mentioned in the last image, the light was not as phenomenal as we hoped on arrival, though it was still pretty. However, just before we left, the Lord blessed us with the most beautiful oranges and purples and blues. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1622114792470-IAI57I31K4SAT9ECTGDD/TGO_20May2021_Strayer_0120.jpg Media Gallery - Night Lights The energy of the night in the village, shot through the windshield on a bumpy dirt road. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1622115259348-Y3AFJC5FABCE1P1QDB4W/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Bar Lights The blinking rope lights of a bar, shot through the passenger window in a village at night. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1622115387667-IDW0X81GK0QSIOD9QIK9/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - In the Kitchen A group of women sit and chat while cooking their dinner over clay stoves. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1622115562415-IQ4Q7A7KZ3EPGB5RQ28M/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - So Many? I asked to take a photo of her. She sat as I snapped a few, but I knew I had to adjust the settings so I snapped a few more. Just as I was finishing with the last image, she began to make the face that said, “Well, come on, how many are you going to take?? I thought you said one”. She was very happy with the images. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1622115696555-WZX4E6W90VZVNFRDX6VL/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Patient 1 A patient at Hôpital Baptiste Biblique sits on his mat outside his room talking with some friends. When I asked if I could take his picture he happily agreed and was even more happy to see his face on the screen. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1622115956038-IX7MQUWBDWEEG8BCIIUL/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Patient 2 Another patient sits on his mat outside his room. These mats are kept clean on top, by removing one’s shoes before sitting as seen here. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1625307110574-5AQQJITCGOT9TEMGLM6Q/TGO_20Jun2021_Strayer_-11.jpg Media Gallery - Sunday Morning Walk A family walks along the street in Kpalime, Togo to an unknown (to me) destination early on a Sunday morning. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1625307117422-2PRML1A27AQRPGM1JU5M/TGO_20Jun2021_Strayer_-18.jpg Media Gallery - Leaf Rope Bundles of wood lay piled on the side of the path. Each bundle was lashed together with twisted “ropes” made of palm leaves. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1625307179214-H5MQ7OBFX4508U60F4FY/TGO_20Jun2021_Strayer_-44.jpg Media Gallery - Purple Fruit I still get a little confused on the difference between bananas and plantains, but I think based on the grouping that these could be plantains. But maybe they are bananas. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1625307869524-18QFO9NHYPF7O9VDCHBD/TGO_20Jun2021_Strayer_-151.jpg Media Gallery - Palm Oil "Press" I have seen palm oil being made before, but never in a pit like this. The process is hard and long and tiring. This woman was pressing oil when we passed by on the way home and we asked to stop and take some photos. She gladly obliged. The palm nuts are cut down from the trees and the seeds are taken from the bundle thing they grow in. As the seeds dry, they are then placed in the pit here. She crushes the seeds with her feet and also a pounder of some kind. As this is done, water is added to the pit. The crushing continues so the orange oil can be extracted. The basket here is being used to sieve out the fibrous husks of the palm nut. The oil is collected to be used in cooking and the fibers of the husk are then dried and formed into small cakes to be used as fire starters. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1625308197449-VQA4LRVCMRLJAL09WRH0/TGO_20Jun2021_Strayer_-166.jpg Media Gallery - Cutting Okra They use okra to make sauce. They take each okra pod and slice it into thin slices before using it to prepare a thick green sauce. This sauce is not often enjoyed by many expats as they would say it has the consistency of snot. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1625308200332-LP3F0TCJI7SPGGY17QF5/TGO_20Jun2021_Strayer_-170.jpg Media Gallery - Smile The little one in the stripes cried and backed away when I got close, but after I showed her the image I took, she was smiling and laughing at herself. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1625309153944-G3G61EGJXE8K5XM0TO8W/TGO_26Jun2021_Strayer_-101.jpg Media Gallery - Hello, Child The road is long my child Do not weary as you walk Lift your head, look onward The journey is the destination https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1625308471577-6DK2VEVERX3DABFAREL3/_ST38067.jpg Media Gallery - Spectacular Moon My neighbor came in from taking the dog out and said, “The moon is pretty awesome for photographers”. Naturally I had to go and get my camera and tripod and take some pictures. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1629214770147-3R9YQ5A2CVDQOD3743XT/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Teach Others Fellow missionary, Benjamin Ward and his Togolese partner, Cynthia work together to teach adults how to teach the Bible and share the gospel with children and youth. This woman, one of twenty participants in the seminar, takes notes on preparing a Bible lesson for children. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1629214892419-QPC5XCYKCJOPYL6T8OXE/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Sharing Without Words Fellow missionary, Benjamin Ward and his Togolese partner, Cynthia work together to teach adults how to teach the Bible and share the gospel with children and youth. Participants used visual aids and role play to practice sharing the gospel with children. Pictured is one of the squares on the wordless bracelet. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1629215121161-ISCTSVR9EFSSAF4LOE71/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Cain and Abel Fellow missionary, Benjamin Ward and his Togolese partner, Cynthia work together to teach adults how to teach the Bible and share the gospel with children and youth. Participants used role play, as pictured here, to practice preparing Bible lessons, teaching Scripture memory, and sharing the gospel. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1629215615871-LLZ2TD0XMT3L5ILTRNAW/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Teach Others to Teach Others Fellow missionary, Benjamin Ward and his Togolese partner, Cynthia work together to teach adults how to teach the Bible and share the gospel with children and youth. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1639477522383-UJF50D9FU0EGABZOQRLR/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Feed the Clown Every year, ABWE missionaries Ben and Vicki Ward host a fair for our MKs. The kids get to eat popcorn, funnel cakes, and candy while playing games to win tickets in order to buy prizes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1639477926564-UARACII0QSF31G95VQ6H/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Ping Pong Toss Every year, ABWE missionaries Ben and Vicki Ward host a fair for our MKs. The kids get to eat popcorn, funnel cakes, and candy while playing games to win tickets in order to buy prizes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1639478165543-IFLQ7YVG45NWTCY0IZXQ/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Fair Fare Every year, ABWE missionaries Ben and Vicki Ward host a fair for our MKs. The kids get to eat popcorn, funnel cakes, and even candy apples while playing games to win tickets in order to buy prizes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1639478076755-LC4ENK2K05Y5IV2T4RHL/20210821_HES_MKFairDay_0184.jpg Media Gallery - Winner, Winner...Duck Dinner? Every year, ABWE missionaries Ben and Vicki Ward host a fair for our MKs. The kids get to eat popcorn, funnel cakes, and candy while playing games to win tickets in order to buy prizes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1639478569724-1ADZ9KWLPSI724OO8S7M/20210821_HES_MKFairDay_0445.jpg Media Gallery - Weeee! Every year, ABWE missionaries Ben and Vicki Ward host a fair for our MKs. The kids get to eat popcorn, funnel cakes, and candy while playing games to win tickets in order to buy prizes. There is also a Bounce House! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1639478598441-Q76VI6DLYJI93SOO0GIN/20210821_HES_MKFairDay_0537.jpg Media Gallery - Surprise! At the MK fair, the kids got to play in a game called “How Well do you Know Your Friends?”. They stood on one side of a tablecloth while someone was selected to go behind it. The kids then had to guess who was behind the tablecloth by seeing only. . .a foot! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1639478639919-V97KVOD24MW8PHSWITLB/20210821_HES_MKFairDay_0626.jpg Media Gallery - Ready, Aim... Nerf guns are always fun and when you get prizes for knocking stuff down, it is even better! This little guy and his dad were sharpshooters and knocked down a target on the first shot! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1639478705493-XLGWQUVYYHQFKATFDH1S/20210821_HES_MKFairDay_0843.jpg Media Gallery - Tickets, Please Every year, ABWE missionaries Ben and Vicki Ward host a fair for our MKs. The kids get to eat popcorn, funnel cakes, and candy while playing games to win tickets in order to buy prizes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1639478707879-ANBZQVYKEAN74G2LWV3V/20210828_HES_BernardDowry_0062.jpg Media Gallery - Dowry Meal Prep A behind the scenes look shows us some of the kitchen prep for the meal that will follow the dowry ceremony about to take place. This kitchen has been filled with people all morning preparing sauces and fufu for the arriving guests who have traveled to come and see the wedding. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1639478813585-QCH7BXSPVRQI55SZ4NQP/20210828_HES_BernardDowry_0118.jpg Media Gallery - Dowry Dancing As guests arrive, the women from both families dance to the music in celebration of the dowry/marriage about to occur. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1639478815812-PDSNHTH2UVG9YYUNQW0U/20210828_HES_BernardDowry_0224.jpg Media Gallery - Announcing the Groom A choir comes through the gate when the ceremony is to begin. Their singing announces the coming of the groom. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1639478925645-5IPM6K87Q6YZS632PPZU/20210828_HES_BernardDowry_0483.jpg Media Gallery - Who is it? Taking a slight twist on the Leah and Rachel story in the Bible (Genesis 29), the women at the ceremony bring out a woman wrapped from head to toe in fabric. The celebration continues as the wrapped woman is taken to the family to verify the identity of the woman under the cloth. Her “veil” is lifted and it is discovered that it is NOT the bride! So she is taken away. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1639478941997-XDCIB6G10ZNCLBG1YF8R/20210828_HES_BernardDowry_0326.jpg Media Gallery - Payment The dowry gifts are brought out and laid on the ground to be “approved” and to show how the man has prepared to take his bride. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1639478982384-F29LCIDG3UND6BPGQ4FH/20210828_HES_BernardDowry_0506.jpg Media Gallery - Help Us Help You “Please, if you want to see the bride, you must give us money to bring her because she is far away!” The women presenting the “bride” ask for gifts of money to retrieve the bride and bring her. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1639479011555-7KR2ZRPHFS6ZGXEWN1M5/20210828_HES_BernardDowry_0587.jpg Media Gallery - Who is it? p.2 The custom continues and another woman wrapped in cloth from head to foot is paraded out. When they peer inside the wrap at the face, they finally find it IS the bride! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1639479153779-YDS3X6YC63WNMVRN3HTQ/20210828_HES_BernardDowry_0672.jpg Media Gallery - The Bride The bride is addressed and presented, fully “unwrapped”, to the family and friends present at the ceremony. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1639482253681-8RC9EEBKC5DV1FSC3XF7/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Street Art A man paints a new canvas outside his roadside boutique while someone else sells coconuts to passersby. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1639479175256-84UCL5XW96HWA43M8H0C/20210821_HES_Driving_0007.jpg Media Gallery - Workin' in the Rain A man working in his rice field got caught unawares in a passing rainy season storm. However, it did not stop him from hoeing the field in the slightest. He probably enjoyed the momentary break from the sun, although in a few more minutes, he was probably wishing he had a jacket! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1639479351062-J5V0XXQFNVO76TN6IIW2/20211105_HES_GoldenEyeDay_0055.jpg Media Gallery - Passing Storm Up on the mountain the weather is different than what is below. Standing on the porch of a mountainside cabin, I watched a storm brew in the distance, roll in with rain and dark clouds, and even some strong winds, and pass by within a matter of about 30 minutes. Blessed respite from the heat of Africa’s low grounds. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1639482356850-AVDRF8VPBN9PY2TZCZHI/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Playing in Puddles A tire and a stick are really all you need to amuse yourself on on afternoon in Africa. This little guy got to add to his excitement by blasting that tire through some puddles after the morning rain. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1639482487897-RBG8I6MFUD451JRPTTNF/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Sing for Water Celebrations are top notch in Africa. Every gathering involves music, singing, ululating, dancing, and a dizzying twirl of handkerchiefs. The water well dedication in Gladjoé was no exception. The music was loud and the celebrating was heartfelt. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1639482599456-KKRBACWWGCR85D624986/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Authority The local chiefs greet the prefect of the area when he arrives at the inauguration of the water well. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1639482710265-4U0319STUGOS1WIE8UP3/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Tip My Hat A traditional elder arrives a little late to the inauguration, but certainly still looking ready to celebrate in his traditional robe and hat. I am still not quite sure how he avoided sweating himself out under all those layers, but he managed somehow. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1639482827513-Q7B2K0GDFIATQ03QFW5D/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Not Just Adults The inauguration guests were not just adults, but children as well. They sit in a section designated for them, and the older ones help take care of the younger ones until they are allowed to get up and play. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1639482931175-WX0E9KV1O3KP84NEAAGZ/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Prayer of Thanks A local pastor prays and thanks God for the provision of the water well. The well in Gladjoé will provide clean water for 13 villages - a population of roughly 100,000 people. Prior to this well being dug, the villagers were drinking water from a dirty river nearby. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1639483102893-Y1EPVUS9W321GQLMG9K1/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Running Water Gladjoé was in need of clean water, but our teammate had been unaware of that fact. He had heard that the village pastor had passed away and there was no one to fill his place. So he and a few others sought to find ways to encourage, disciple, and prepare a new pastor and/or church leaders to build the church in the village. While there during a visit, Honoré discovered the issue of the drinking water. We are praying that God uses this physical need of clean water to spread the Gospel by showing people their need for the Living Water (John 4). https://static1.squarespace.com/static/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/5fd0b4b7a4b4ef2db6ac0160/61b8875418bcdd35dd97ec5c/1639483220150/ Media Gallery https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1639906751700-NBOCED8ESHSPZWU64COB/20211130_HES_TTWRoadTrip_0162.jpg Media Gallery - Staxi Taxis in Togo can carry stacks of goods, luggage, and other items. The stacking and tie down skills of the Togolese allow these rooftop stacks to sometimes be even taller than the car taxis themselves. And what is inside the van? People…and more stuff. Once, I saw a taxi that was so full that a man leaned out the window and used the luggage on top to pull himself out of the taxi. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1639906762567-1AOAGNGNJ7SIXT5GMQBE/20211130_HES_TTWRoadTrip_0170.jpg Media Gallery - Animal Transport Animals are often taken to market using taxis. Inside the people usually smush (literally) themselves and smaller bags into the seats. Then they have whatever cannot or does not fit inside with them go on top. On top of this taxi are wooden cages full of poultry (chickens and guinea fowl) along with two (yes, two) goats. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1639907239889-S9OPBZ837RXMNSNLMI5M/20211207_HES_LeBonBergerMango_0020-2.jpg Media Gallery - T R O U B L E I hear this little man, part of the kindergarten class, is quite the troublemaker. But that little face of his certainly is cute! He was avoiding class by asking to be picked up and to have his picture taken. Well, sure, my friend I can do both, but now you have to go back to class! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1639907272857-08BDI5T4GVH1LLNKO2MB/20211207_HES_LeBonBergerMango_0106-2.jpg Media Gallery - Montre-moi During lessons, students write down their answers on chalkboards and then hold them up to their foreheads so teachers may see that they are finished and check their work. This board reads, “Il dit bonjour au maître” which means, “He says hello to the teacher”. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1639907281250-IPRYH624I0R26B8FLFKG/20211207_HES_MangoRadio_0006.jpg Media Gallery - Lesson Prep Do you remember Salifou? If not, of it you never “met” him, you can watch his story (Salifou’s story) and learn how he came to Hospital of Hope in Mango. Now, Salifou has gotten a job at Hope Radio in Mango and has been working on creating lessons to be recorded on air from Good Soil’s The Story of Hope and The Way to Joy. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1639907306393-G86O1DNKB8O19YKSBOU2/20211207_HES_MangoRadio_0035.jpg Media Gallery - On Air Hope Radio broadcasts a number of materials. Here the employees are seen recording a news block to be aired later. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1639907831408-C7X7JDVB8Z6O79NZQIPQ/20211211_HES_VOLCookieBake_0025.jpg Media Gallery - Mixing the Batter As Christmas gets closer, it is fun to take time with the Village of Light students and bake cookies. Most years we have enough missionaries on campus to bake with the boys and the girls, but this year, as break quickly approached, we only had time to bake with the girls. It was a fun time for everyone, full of sensory experience, and the boys still enjoyed eating the cookies. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1639907838969-5SIV8YCEHAO12V5Q6474/20211211_HES_VOLCookieBake_0044.jpg Media Gallery - Adding Sugar Beky Poteat helps a student top cookies with sugar. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1639907915393-ARW93MJEOZQB3KWJHTI7/20211211_HES_VOLCookieBake_0056.jpg Media Gallery - Cutting out Shapes A student receives help of a seeing friend to cut out various cookies shapes to be decorated. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1639907907293-WE87WSM04CMCMVMTAXU3/20211211_HES_VOLCookieBake_0160.jpg Media Gallery - A Jolly Mess The girls had a great time (and made a greater mess!) baking cookies. Christmas music played in the background and there was a lot of giggling (and snacking) as the cookies were made. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623316922489-26Z35IYMU54NDSNQ2V44/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0017.jpg Media Gallery - Hair The night before the wedding, the bride and the stylist were up for a few hours in order to braid the bride’s hair in preparation for this step of the hairstyling. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623316958647-XOP6GYWT9DRVAU5965LL/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0032.jpg Media Gallery - Hair 2 As an African’s hair does not typically grow long, it is common to have extensions or hair pieces braided or sewn in to lengthen the style. Here the stylist is sewing hair pieces into the natural braids of the bride to give her more length to style. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623317008928-O5YD5PSO0NOEPXUJIPKX/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0097.jpg Media Gallery - Sitting Much of the bride’s morning is spent sitting and waiting on the stylist. She sits to get her hair done. She sits for her makeup. She sits for her eyebrows to be done. Sitting sitting sitting. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623317039459-B3A8EQPIZTABK5HDN9K4/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0104.jpg Media Gallery - Dyeing Eyebrows The gel like substance seen here is a type of henna like dye that will stain the skin where applied when left to sit a while. The stylist applies the dye, shapes and cleans up the area with some q-tips, and allows the dye to “soak in”, creating a shapely, dark eyebrow. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623317084187-XDMRV8BVI42GYDADN789/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0148.jpg Media Gallery - Nails Nails - another of those beauty accessories bride’s often sit for. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623318029737-UJQKA2G93TR34382ZJMR/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0372.jpg Media Gallery - Hair 3 Combing, pomades, mousses and more go into helping make the hair easier to style and give it a good hold. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623318163847-73B4TUHIS6RFIMQMZDGY/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0412.jpg Media Gallery - Reflection The stylist works through the process of styling the hair as the time to leave for the wedding gets closer. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623318194296-K14BP8HENBNW54I96W2W/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0423.jpg Media Gallery - Reflection 2 In this African wedding, the bridal party did not arrive until the bride was nearly ready. The only people with her during the morning activities and prep were the stylist and her godmother (and of course, the photographer). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623318155710-UAXV1TC66EZLN6DRXFUM/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0461.jpg Media Gallery - All Hands on Deck They say many hands make light work, well, the little guy was not happy, but the hairstyle was going alright. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623318260578-8BIH3DYFJMQ0X095DE6C/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0473.jpg Media Gallery - Reflection 3 In this African wedding, the bridal party did not arrive until the bride was nearly ready. The only people with her during the morning activities and prep were the stylist and her godmother (and of course, the photographer). Pictured here with her, as the bridal party arrived, is the bride’s younger sister who came to help with finishing touches and putting on her wedding dress. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623318304335-FTX4DVKCS5E803JF5T4A/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0475.jpg Media Gallery - Accessorize The bride’s younger sister helps her with her jewelry as she touches up parts of her make-up. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623318442324-Z80E227KW6Q34R7U2BOM/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0481.jpg Media Gallery - Dressing She is dressed and almost ready to go and see the groom and the wedding party for some pictures! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623318478210-0ZLJQ242VSZOF66ZU2MX/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0494.jpg Media Gallery - Final Touches A little more product is applied for hold and shine. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623317957012-2402VDBB0OWPE1DCIINY/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0368.jpg Media Gallery - Bridal Details The details we like to see up close https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623318558293-K2A7MPZVT5W379L3ZQI4/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0496.jpg Media Gallery - Crowned The tiara is in place and the veil is anchored in. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623318562171-2BVEFGM2PNMS9NF3FH33/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0506-2.jpg Media Gallery - Final Look And with that, she is ready to go! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623317090502-JJZ05XLMT5LGM7ROFCSV/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0183.jpg Media Gallery - Polish The guys’ preparations look much different than the ladies’. They were still in their casual clothes and walking around eating and laughing when I arrived. They were polishing their shoes and ironing their clothes while the bride was getting hair and nails and make-up done. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623317127382-7ZJ6CVX03JCBJAJPVQD6/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0221.jpg Media Gallery - More Polish It has been a long time since I have watched a man polish his shoes. I used to watch my dad do it when I was younger and he would polish his church shoes. Nowadays, in the West mostly, we have lost the art of shining our shoes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623317292364-1F9V7NPWPSN3AY5SNDDP/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0326.jpg Media Gallery - Polished All shined up and ready to get dirty! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623317214934-S9A5T69FPK9B5XRTXI41/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0245.jpg Media Gallery - Car Wash The driver gets the cars ready for the bride and the groom. Each was washed inside and out so they could arrive in style to the wedding. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623317227964-4VQ03BCBZJU7BGHIVIY3/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0271.jpg Media Gallery - Buttons The groom’s godfather buttons his sleeves. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623317290772-FJXU678UCE1S70Q2MQQR/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0273.jpg Media Gallery - Buttons 2 The men have all the buttons! Sometimes buttons are tricky because their fingers are large and the buttons are tiny. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623317156535-ZBHDJJQT1VK6QJK48FA9/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0203.jpg Media Gallery - Plug it in, Plug it in He was ironing his pants when I arrived. After a few minutes he spoke in Ewe to his friends wondering why the iron was not doing a good job at removing the wrinkles. One of the other groomsmen said in French, “it is not plugged in!” Yes, that helps. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623317377974-15FA7GJWLHQIAG8EYIKG/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0329.jpg Media Gallery - Tying up Loose Ends The groomsmen help the groom get ready by tying up his shoes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623317385060-ORIWCH4ZDCINVPJ4BI71/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0339.jpg Media Gallery - Looking Sharp The groom’s process of getting ready is WAY shorter and less tedious than the bride’s. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623317875220-S5JEZJ7Y9YE3YICOCFG1/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0352.jpg Media Gallery - More Buttons! Shirt buttons, vest buttons, jacket buttons. Buttons, buttons, and more buttons. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623317618606-E6YSLVCMCV75E5RQJ9BU/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0357.jpg Media Gallery - All Set And within the space of about 10 minutes, the groom is ready to go. . .the bride was still getting ready. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623317810373-0EFXF85VJR6A2XFRFOFL/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0359.jpg Media Gallery - Rings Let’s do this. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623318613105-3ONUTCR5MODHKXZ7IA6E/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0510.jpg Media Gallery - Here Comes the Bride The bride was ready and pictures could begin! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623318649547-1S0LWU3EID872LRWI519/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0520.jpg Media Gallery - It's a Party The bridal party for the wedding arrived for pictures before we drove to the church for the ceremony. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623318712563-V3N55N4USLW7K8Y448Q1/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0530.jpg Media Gallery - Les Belles Femmes Bridal party https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623318708601-TE19C5QS5W31TK0JWGMY/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0538-2.jpg Media Gallery - Les Belles Femmes 2 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623318767262-4HE81Y4GXB23VC4VYC03/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0565.jpg Media Gallery - Les Beaux Hommes The groomsmen https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623318762497-772PWSEKS3VMX099P529/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0568.jpg Media Gallery - Les Beaux Hommes 2 Grace Sakpa and Selom Gbafa get ready for their wedding at Village of Light before the ceremony at Agou Church. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623318850934-K14WNMHXHW90XHBJWFEL/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0604.jpg Media Gallery - Veiled Laughter The bride specifically requested an “under the veil” shot. As we were prepping the shot she said to her groom, “come under here with me. But don’t touch me!” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623318815579-31XVH4Z1YNVD13C5FLXK/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0588-2.jpg Media Gallery - The Happy Couple The anticipation was building as was the anxiety since we were running late! But with just a few minutes to spare we squeezed in a few final shots before jetting off. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623318858875-MM8FNYZJO361602LA0CO/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0613.jpg Media Gallery - The Godparents The anticipation was building as was the anxiety since we were running late! But with just a few minutes to spare we squeezed in a few final shots before jetting off. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623318858567-3CRC46EKI6A256Z6ILUW/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0631-2.jpg Media Gallery - Put a Ring On It All framed up in his promise of love. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623405696063-89GIAHFGCC39EV4YMDI7/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0831.jpg Media Gallery - Gathered The bride’s “side”. There are several rows in behind the camera and another section in front of that yet. (This view changed during the ceremony several times as more people tried to get a peek at what was happening inside. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623319378341-JVWPU3R7FK4M28F5E0GB/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0832.jpg Media Gallery - Gathered 2 The groom’s “side”. There are several rows in behind the camera and another section in front of that yet. (This view changed during the ceremony several times as more people tried to get a peek at what was happening inside. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623319015333-QS98TMS31FRNE269SC7R/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0679.jpg Media Gallery - Gathered 3 The church filled up quickly and the overflow did as well. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623319716098-SJ4BJOEOE67ZPRYVEJER/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_1100.jpg Media Gallery - From the Doorway As the seats were full inside, people crowded in the doorways to catch a view of the ceremony. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623318991865-F55D1QUSRFO8YURKO94C/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0673.jpg Media Gallery - The Groom's Car The groom arrived with quite the ruckus. If you could hear what I heard by looking at this picture, you would be deaf. The driver just kept blowing the horn because the announcement of the groom is to be celebrated with lots of noise! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623319048766-N2WF0HKT4V8EUN8PZDL5/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0704.jpg Media Gallery - Car Shot The exiting of the vehicle is an important thing to capture at a Togolese wedding. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623319112908-ZC1ECHR35WR9R07CXWUR/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0714.jpg Media Gallery - Celebrate! As the groom exited the car, this lady came to him loudly cheering and throwing her confetti. As she spoke in Ewe, the tribal language, I do not know exactly what she was saying but as it is a joyous moment, it seemed to be something to incite the crowds to cheer and yell excitedly as the groom made his entrance. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623319112160-KHS9ZNOAVRFU7SGWRRLO/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0733.jpg Media Gallery - Escorted The groom’s godfather led him to the entryway of the church to begin the processional down the aisle where he would eventually step aside to allow the groom to finish the walk down the aisle in front of him before presenting himself to the guests. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623319205827-ETMRY8Z35RHB6W5PWK9N/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0790.jpg Media Gallery - The Switch The moment when the groom and his godfather switched places. The groomsmen walked down the aisle to pace the groom’s entrance (it can take a LONG time for the wedding party to enter as this is the biggest part of celebration in most Togolese weddings). It is anything but solemn and quiet! Unlike Western weddings, there is cheering and joyful ululating. Often times there will be a waving of handkerchiefs and other cloths as well. And the lady with the confetti also kept throwing it on him. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623319188203-L1CESO1IVFMCB7P9LO6M/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0811.jpg Media Gallery - The Final Steps The groom has nearly reached his place at the front of the church. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623319258605-85AZNFWVIA386O54X163/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0818.jpg Media Gallery - Arrived Before turning for the guests to see, he pauses, waits for the song to end, takes a look at the officiant, and gathers his nerves to watch his bride make her entrance. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623319407506-8YZZARBK60KWMJ1B6N27/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0875.jpg Media Gallery - The Bride is Coming! The bride arrived so the bridal party made their choreographed entrance before the bride was presented. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623319472617-OZ1ZPE7RHK5J2WASEXKO/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0914.jpg Media Gallery - Car Shot 2 The exiting of the vehicle is an important thing to capture at a Togolese wedding. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623319547511-KHDWHX2JZQ1RKCD3PVN5/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0938.jpg Media Gallery - Escort 2 The bride’s escort was her younger brother. He did his job well at hyping up the guests as she made her way up the stairs and down the aisle. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623319548107-BEWWR3FXG7ZGG75DALCD/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0941.jpg Media Gallery - Clap Your Hands! The bride’s escort was her younger brother. He did his job well at hyping up the guests as she made her way up the stairs and down the aisle. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623319586378-IIHY9N4L5LAVVL9QNBG2/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0954.jpg Media Gallery - Anxious Anticipation The nerves were present but the joy won out. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623319656203-J0CNT29F5DRH5U8JF3GM/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_0986.jpg Media Gallery - Give it Up! The bride’s escort was her younger brother. He did his job well at hyping up the guests as she made her way up the stairs and down the aisle. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623319650834-TJW41RU02MLEHB2C9O7A/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_1042.jpg Media Gallery - Let's Get Married The bride and groom arrived at last and the ceremony was able to move along. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623319731744-CG96006RTF46YIKRESXR/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_1089.jpg Media Gallery - Chorale 1 One of the singing groups for the special music. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623319794324-07JUNXP7C2FTT2QGKE4Y/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_1169.jpg Media Gallery - Hype Again, they spoke in Ewe so I do not know what they were saying, but the bride’s younger sister (in blue) and the lady who threw the confetti (in the printed dress) would periodically run to the front of the church cheering back and forth to one another, hyping up the crowd and then return to their place to prepare to do it again later. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623319779457-I8IC3Z5F6WVV00VD0L62/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_1163.jpg Media Gallery - Winding Down Again, they spoke in Ewe so I do not know what they were saying, but the bride’s younger sister (in blue) and the lady who threw the confetti (in the printed dress) would periodically run to the front of the church cheering back and forth to one another, hyping up the crowd and then return to their place to prepare to do it again later. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623319840902-PVLG76VOZ0S9S23GHL20/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_1189.jpg Media Gallery - The Family The bride and groom with their parents just before the vows and rings. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623319864313-U7TE1QYGKG5H72PQQU97/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_1246.jpg Media Gallery - With This Ring https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623319984940-1GCLOYE4UJVUAITRBVKI/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_1249.jpg Media Gallery - I Thee Wed https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623406409094-3TH00IJ2WJP28VIVJM94/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - With This Ring https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623319976251-P29R8UHKDG7VJAT1IIO0/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_1284.jpg Media Gallery - I Thee Wed Grace Sakpa and Selom Gbafa get ready for their wedding at Village of Light before the ceremony at Agou Church. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623320047669-QE73UGETYLT75GRYRXNR/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_1298.jpg Media Gallery - Dry Your Eyes During her vows, the bride lost it a little. However, she regained herself, finished the vows, placed the ring on the groom’s finger and her godmother stepped in to dry her eyes and save her make-up. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623320080094-39ON4BP1TB0XXMCWXHZ6/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_1308.jpg Media Gallery - Take a Breath Meanwhile, the groom was also tearing up as the bride said her vows so after the godmother had finished it was the godfather’s turn to dry the tears of the groom and help him gather his composure again. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623320139829-JARAELDF097XAQ8HZOBS/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_1327.jpg Media Gallery - Anticipation The lifting of the veil was a slow process of building anticipation! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623320178506-W1IM7OBXMTHUPLW4VYH2/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_1332.jpg Media Gallery - Unveiled The lifting of the veil was a slow process of building anticipation! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623320250648-RUITDJNFFWIRBDG83V8U/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_1351.jpg Media Gallery - The Kiss Unlike Western weddings, the kiss is not as big of a moment for the wedding. The rings were more emphasized by the bride and groom when I asked what particular traditions and parts of the ceremony were a must capture. In fact, this kiss was so fast, I nearly missed it altogether! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623320327246-CO1BE92LTYHEAEWK4FO1/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_1403.jpg Media Gallery - Prayer Hands After the vows and rings and the fast kiss, the couple is prayed over by the attending pastors. They are given cushions to kneel on (for cleanliness as well as comfort) as the pastors gather around them to pray. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623320324452-6G0AX5226RZLBOS1XWSN/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_1405.jpg Media Gallery - Prayer After the vows and rings and the fast kiss, the couple is prayed over by the attending pastors. They are given cushions to kneel on (for cleanliness as well as comfort) as the pastors gather around them to pray. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623320424906-4YHMICOPV1C88N2KFGKR/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_1417.jpg Media Gallery - Prayer 2 After the vows and rings and the fast kiss, the couple is prayed over by the attending pastors. They are given cushions to kneel on (for cleanliness as well as comfort) as the pastors gather around them to pray. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623320413379-TZUYU4YRUTPMXIYF3JEI/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_1440.jpg Media Gallery - The First Bible The couple is given their first Bible together by the pastor of their church. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623320490688-KZHDX8GGNHPOE06ARVAP/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_1449.jpg Media Gallery - Virtual Attendee A very dear friend of the bride was unable to make it to the wedding as she is back in the States caring for her aging parents. Thankfully, technology allowed us to call her on WhatsApp so she could watch the ceremony. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623320487428-ST4PWA9BGZY3MCUU3529/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_1485.jpg Media Gallery - Cut the Cake The couple cuts the cake. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623320560583-EQO1QDK5KTBIDFHIGWYW/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_1490.jpg Media Gallery - Cut the Cake 2 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623320564585-9BCLHI4NF4N5I7C92SMZ/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_1497.jpg Media Gallery - Taste The cake is definitely not able to be smashed into the face here as it is given with a fork. However…there is still teasing and joking. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623407117469-D34N0AHN9E2K80ASXCBM/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Extra Bite The bride was not going to smash the fork into her groom’s face, but she did tease him by getting the fork to his mouth before turning it quickly around and eating it herself! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623409562183-W5OAOR04S39QTST58D0T/Gbafa_Sakpa_Marriage_1509.jpg Media Gallery - Finally After the trickery, the groom finally got his taste of the cake! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623408589226-FI4B54Y6UWSV5A0F05MB/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - The Last of the Ceremony The couple is presented to the guests with a final prayer as the ceremony finished and various groups were then called up to take photos with them. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623409201157-2GZSMEQ6AHB6SR9G6U0Y/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Officiants The couple took pictures with many of the guests after the ceremony, but the first group was with the officiants of the day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623408700377-Q7JPHLKQ6PKKF9M99D3A/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Parents of the Bride The reason I decided to even shoot this wedding (I am not one to volunteer often to shoot a wedding because, to me, they are too stressful) was because of this couple right here. 5 years ago, I made my first trip to Togo on a media workshop trip and I was tasked with telling Abra’s story. This woman is a FORCE. She is the kindest, sweetest woman. She and her husband have a wonderful marriage and deep love for sharing God’s Word with others in both discipleship and evangelism. They are my “oldest” Togolese friends and it was quite the privilege then to photograph their firstborn’s wedding. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623408901822-Q4IAUSOQHZIWECZ1SJWO/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Parents of the Groom Before a few months ago, I did not even know the groom. I do not know his parents at all, but based on the man I can see he is from our few interactions, I have a feeling they are pretty wonderful people as well. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1623408979472-TQQZNACSXLBCPGPP94QU/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Just Married It almost seems funny to say “just married” because another custom that is unusual to westerners is that a civil wedding happens before the “church wedding”. So, this couple had gone into town the day before to have the civil marriage performed (a select few folks go, the couple dresses up, they get legally married, and then have a church wedding as an official celebration later). So…technically they were “Already Married”. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1634137055058-2AADYCYEQTS5RN9QDGQA/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - All Together We the Kingdom gathers around the mic for a group sing at Uprise Fest 2021 in Shippensburg, Pennsylvania. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1634141655031-4610UH8CPKSEASBHLRNA/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Stained Glass "Windows" Zach Williams performed “Old Church Choir” and had the stage set to coordinate at Uprise Fest 2021 in Shippensburg, Pennsylvania. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1634138311256-K5K2VAZSJJN1PZGI0ZOQ/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Smoking Hands John Cooper, lead singer of the band Skillet, wears a fog machine during a concert at Uprise Fest 2021 in Shippensburg, Pennsylvania. The effects of the fog added a great deal of energy to the audience as well as the concert itself. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1634141461691-K73YA7AD21OQPSDJFAHH/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Apollo LTD Apollo LTD started off Saturday morning’s shows at Uprise Fest 2021 in Shippensburg, Pennsylvania. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1634137702791-WH3K8P4T7G9G3AV3BAVD/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Sweet Victory Trip Lee invites the audience to join him in his performance “Sweet Victory” at the Hip Hop Stage during Uprise Fest 2021 in Shippensburg, Pennsylvania. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1634138137342-JKW5RNZAJKDMXT93UGM2/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Smoke & Lights Fog machines and lights are a staple at the Rockstar Stage at Uprise Fest 2021 in Shippensburg, Pennsylvania. The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus made no exception of that. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1634138536473-JBR3PLZ3NXVAPBMU4TVF/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Through Smoke Lacey Sturm performs on the Rockstar Stage at Uprise Fest 2021 in Shippensburg, Pennsylvania. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1634138817714-TQTNZTO571PD29YFUXED/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Lights, Music, Energy For King and Country never disappoints in their concerts with energy and performance! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1634140973992-R2VF13HALKW8236DD7SS/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - New Monarch My mom loves butterflies and she brings home monarch caterpillars pretty often. This guy emerged from his cocoon and I took a few shots before he left to remember him by. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1634141207253-YRPGVFFKU7IH0C6EZ1M9/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Felled A logging company came and cleared out trees between the train tracks and the river to avoid them hitting power lines during storms. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1634139108738-PCT8TTU2CTKGYC3WOQ8I/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Floating Heavy rains lead to high rivers which washes up all sorts of debris. Here, a tire floats near the shore of the Susquehanna River in Goldsboro, Pennsylvania. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1634139259508-GLTT3PV10VSRL2E0B2N0/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Textures A feather lies in the parking lot of a personal watercraft dock launch at the Susquehanna River in Goldsboro, Pennsylvania. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1634139450520-40IHN5HX6HXOLO5BRY5R/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Sunrise Moon The moon was reluctant to make its exit as the sun made its entrance. Photo taken over the Indian River in Florida. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1634139653416-SNCG5DMKAET5VDUBWZ5D/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Pelicans Sunrises create some of the most delightful silhouettes and the pelicans flew by searching for a roost giving a beautiful subject. Photo taken over the Indian River, Florida. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1634140190071-Q945IB66KVMF2J5Y554X/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Cotton Candy Skies The sunrise casts a number of colors that fade in and out of the sky as the sun reaches to rise above the horizon and heat the day. Photo taken over the Indian River, Florida. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1634139841153-7VMTATYH33VRUFTI4WK6/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Low Clouds A few low clouds created an imposingly beautiful blue shadow with the sunrise. Photo taken over the Indian River, Florida. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1634140043690-TEJWGJ8NGY43YHYBOD47/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Pier Views The docks extend like fingers into the lake and provide a nice place to watch the sunrise but they also look nice as part of the image. Photo taken over the Indian River, Florida. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1634140349768-1FBHMBT0HAN1RXEY3WGA/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Before the Rise When there is no moon and the sun has not risen, the darkness is thick but studded with lights. Photo taken over the Indian River, Florida. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1634140597428-R1H0H000X6VAUW6INVY2/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Crystal Light A Lensball shows the landscape in a new perspective; wide, inverted, different. Photo taken over the Indian River, Florida. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1634140809949-UJ8DPW88GEAWAHRT72JR/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - No Filter A heavy rain the night before creates a lovely filter the following morning as the sun makes its way through the low lying clouds on the horizon. Photo taken over the Indian River, Florida. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1643363705351-ACSNRLZGQOD0Z1AV4ZFU/20220108_HES_KatiLomnavaWell_0097.jpg Media Gallery - Come to the Well The village of Kati-Lomnava had no close access to clean water. People were walking several kilometers to gather water from a dirty stream down the road. In the same village, on the same property, a church was also planted. Now walks for water and worship can be shorter. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1643363697123-BMU3P3AJNCYQLASIEE70/20220108_HES_KatiLomnavaWell_0111.jpg Media Gallery - I Like Your Hat There are many types and styles of headwear. Hats have become one of my favorite accessories to photograph. As Philip Treacy said, “How a hat makes you feel is what a hat is all about,” and I think this goes for both the wearer and the observer. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1644234038994-VA2OGVZC3GAVHW5F69PV/20220122_HES_GandoSheepTrip_0080.jpg Media Gallery - No Room? When there’s no more room inside but you need to get somewhere, no problem! Just hop on top! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1644234028592-W79GAJGJTAI9HO8DQY4G/20220122_HES_GandoSheepTrip_0074.jpg Media Gallery - No Room Again? When there’s no more room inside but you need to get somewhere, no problem! Just sit on the window! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1643364440947-2HZWB4U5PDHTLU1VT9TD/20220121_HES_HoHChapsD1_0022.jpg Media Gallery - Prayer A chaplain prays with a patient at Hospital of Hope in Mango, Togo. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1643364446381-4AD08KN2RK2NFXQO4HNU/20220122_HES_HoHCuisine_0056.jpg Media Gallery - Little Helper The wife of a patient at Hospital of Hope does laundry with the assistance of her young daughter. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1643365125118-HKZJQC5WLY741PSDTN18/20220123_HES_Natchare_0036.jpg Media Gallery - Church Gathering Two chaplains from Hospital of Hope preach each week in this village church. One chaplain preaches in French, while the other translates into the local tribal language for better understanding of the message. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1643365086452-57K2SI68C3VNY49QP9C7/DJI_0901.jpg Media Gallery - Aerial This is the village where one of the local church plants of Hospital of Hope gathers. Currently, the village is planning and saving to build a church building just down the road from this location so they have shade from the sun which their current location - under a large tree - does not adequately provide. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1644231799295-L7R6XIWFY4ADRKRWM7W7/20220204_HES_MacroFun_0053.jpg Media Gallery - Macro Learning a new type of photography while “test driving” a new lens. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1644231847218-RHGGNI9O8RD55PJ1W8L6/20220205_HES_HikeAdventure_0005.jpg Media Gallery - What is it? This small “fruit” was found on the ground during a hike. Not sure what type of tree it came from and my African friend couldn’t tell me the French name for it and I can’t find it on any searches based on the Ewe name or images so it’s still a mystery to me, but I’ll try to figure it out! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1644231847978-XC8DRT7RV53N2NTFNB5J/20220205_HES_HikeAdventure_0063.jpg Media Gallery - Spotted Petals This gorgeous flower is also a mystery to me! It has three ruffled, curled, spotted petals and a pyramid like blossom in the center. It had a lovely, light floral smell and though it somewhat resembles an orchid, I can’t find the name of it either. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1644231883449-T02FKBE6KOUASFXIB6YG/20220205_HES_HikeAdventure_0082.jpg Media Gallery - In the Weeds Walking down the side of the mountain required a lot of focus as the trail was skinny, fairly steep, and we were still up high. But we made it to the bottom without injury or death! And I found these seed pods (I think) which made for a nice photo. I’ll discover what these are sometime too. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1644233780836-PRU3PFQ5VBVRK2TP3AC4/20220121_HES_HoHChapsD1_0059.jpg Media Gallery - Yakouba When I walked toward the cot where he was laying, he was covered up in a blanket. My friend greeted him and cautiously began pulling the blanket down. His leg was casted and he was eating some lunch. He told us his name was Yakouba and we learned that the reason he came to the hospital was that he had been struck by a moto while walking to school. The moto took off but Yakouba had suffered a broken leg. I coaxed this slight smile out of him after a few minutes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1644233847625-KBGRAW07OYCCMZ36WYVC/20220122_HES_HoHCuisine_0020.jpg Media Gallery - Gao He came to the hospital because of an infection. His little daughter was terrified of my American friend and his bright orange beard, but we got her to at least come to her dad and get a picture. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1644233879294-RL7CSIHIYHUPY6LV49TA/20220122_HES_HoHCuisine_0004.jpg Media Gallery - Ablaye A respiratory illness brought him to the hospital where he’s been receiving treatment for several days. He was unsure of what to make of me and my camera but he agreed to let me take his picture after we talked a little while longer. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1644233874994-MFEHWMFZEPINDES7MJ5K/20220122_HES_HoHCuisine_0023.jpg Media Gallery - Boukari They call him “chief” of the area of the patient lodging where he stays because he’s already spent 5 months at the hospital battling an infection. He was kind and jovial and while I couldn’t get him to smile for the portrait (Africans like a more serious look in portraits, many time), I did get a laugh out of him later when I asked him to smile for my video portrait. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1644309258912-E1KYWFHM6GHXKKHE9T3T/20220122_HES_GandoSheepTrip_0058.jpg Media Gallery - Faces of Africa The maternity and pediatric wards at the hospitals are often teeming with people. Since the care is mostly of children, families tend to squish in where they can fit. This mother allowed me to take a photo of her while her little one slept all snugged up in a blanket next to her. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1644233915652-6ANJFTPCKVTBA86GBNLQ/20220123_HES_Natchare_0009.jpg Media Gallery - Faces of Africa 2 When kids are involved, there are usually two reactions: terror or over the top excitement. This little guy was one of a huge group - mob might actually be a better word - that surrounded me and posed for picture after picture and giggled nonstop when seeing the finished result. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1644233926864-KLXJOUGFY4G0NNO24AT3/20220123_HES_Natchare_0013.jpg Media Gallery - Faces of Africa 3 When kids are involved, there are usually two reactions: terror or over the top excitement. The group of children surrounded me enthusiastically and posed for picture after picture and giggled nonstop when seeing the finished result. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1644233955683-K87JUV23NUX1QA1ATH7D/20220123_HES_Natchare_0020.jpg Media Gallery - Faces of Africa 4 When kids are involved, there are usually two reactions: terror or over the top excitement. The group of children surrounded me enthusiastically and posed for picture after picture and giggled nonstop when seeing the finished result. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1644233964811-CTNK4CH0AOWLPWPLOTK8/20220123_HES_Natchare_0043.jpg Media Gallery - Curious "George" This little friend of mine is not named George but he certainly is a curious boy! He loves to touch things. We distracted him from the radio antenna by walking to the other kids. He wanted me to hold him since I wouldn’t let him play with my camera. So he wrapped his little finger in the short wisps of hair at the nape of my neck and played with those for a while instead. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1644233995206-SYRQ1W5MCPA3DOKQGOB2/20220125_HES_HoHKids_0021.jpg Media Gallery - Amuse Yourself These kiddos were outside the hospital playing. I’m sure they’d been bored just sitting and waiting so they were entertaining each other and running around. My camera brought out a new (and voluminous) energy and they posed over and over again from images laughing at themselves and each other when I showed them the pictures. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1644233989881-X4S89WC0455GWUS10ENZ/20220125_HES_HoHKids_0019.jpg Media Gallery - Short They kept crowding the camera and I couldn’t get a nice group shot so I often had to shoot “down” on them which still made for capturing their gorgeous faces. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1644234018533-H6FMD40JPJ2B49FKMKD2/20220125_HES_HoHKids_0024.jpg Media Gallery - H A P P Y What. A. Smile. I had the rare moment to capture his sweet smile while the other kids were momentarily just far enough out of the image to give me a singular portrait. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1646464893144-8REHA9JQ0G43EDVROZD9/20220222_HES_EMMCGladjoe_0073.jpg Media Gallery - Seeing the Chief During Evangelistic Mobile Medical Clinics (EMMCs) medical professionals, with the help of translators, meet with patients that come from different villages where medical access may be more limited. This clinic took place in Gladjoé, the same village where the water well was dedicated back in November, 2021. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1646464895165-WS0PG96VBETY0H02T7OE/20220222_HES_EMMCGladjoe_0107.jpg Media Gallery - Consultation During Evangelistic Mobile Medical Clinics (EMMCs) medical professionals, with the help of translators, meet with patients that come from different villages where medical access may be more limited. This clinic took place in Gladjoé, the same village where the water well was dedicated back in November, 2021. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1646465016147-A4USHHSIKZ3VILD0R5VD/20220222_HES_EMMCGladjoe_0116.jpg Media Gallery - Vital Signs During Evangelistic Mobile Medical Clinics (EMMCs) medical professionals take vital signs for patients before sending them for their consultations. This clinic took place in Gladjoé, the same village where the water well was dedicated back in November, 2021. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1646465020740-FHK5ER7G3O2IWEISIEI3/20220222_HES_EMMCGladjoe_0181.jpg Media Gallery - Blood Pressure During Evangelistic Mobile Medical Clinics (EMMCs) medical professionals take vital signs for patients before sending them for their consultations. This clinic took place in Gladjoé, the same village where the water well was dedicated back in November, 2021. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1648739097371-YOS9KG0RFTW95UHX8BFJ/20220321_HES_BeachWeekend_0086.jpg Media Gallery - On the Edge The morning activity along the beach is light, even on a weekend. And the sunrise during harmattan doesn’t provide the pastel colors one usually associates with sunrises but it still gives gorgeous light to the shoreline. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1648736143550-3SKKEM8X4BH592O1X02M/20220321_HES_BeachWeekend_0053.jpg Media Gallery - Fishing Mornings A fishing boat heads out early in the morning to try and haul in some nets for a day’s sell. Image taken in Lome, Togo. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1648736201221-DI6GVULBYL3RI7T65GSW/20220321_HES_BeachWeekend_0123.jpg Media Gallery - Big Boat, Little Boat The ships and boats on the ocean make for fun contrasting images. Cargo ships head to port to be loaded and unloaded with imports and exports while small fishing vessels cruise the waves a little closer inland for the morning’s catch. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1648736210900-ML7QMSI4SXXNUT7KQXT7/20220321_HES_BeachWeekend_0185.jpg Media Gallery - Stray Stray dogs are commonplace. This guy’s collar means he’s no stray but he still enjoys wandering down the beach to play with his uncollared buddies. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1650291170987-XP7UL4O2FJW07RA6RTF0/20220402_HES_CampusWalk_0021.jpg Media Gallery - Jasmine These tiny flowers are a great subject for practicing macro skills. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1650291196245-28K0Z2D72NEAOROJBD5T/20220409_HES_CampusWalk_0043.jpg Media Gallery - Butterfly They’re hard to sneak up on so getting a shot is not always simple. Today’s light wind made it no less difficult. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1650291157703-FM4TYJ1Q74OYLYOOL24W/20220402_HES_CampusWalk_0030-2.jpg Media Gallery - Sappy Mahogany trees have a variety of usages and not just for people. This particular tree is always swarming with ants. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1650291219600-JNDIVFE5LIV61PD936Z3/20220409_HES_CampusWalk_0045.jpg Media Gallery - Jasmine Carpet The flowers drop and carpet the ground in small white specks and the contrast of the dirt just makes me want to take tons of pictures of it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1650291240043-WJ9E5153L5OTVHYDK13D/20220416_HES_CampusWalk_0010.jpg Media Gallery - Morning Mimosa He was collecting pollen and kept flying through my shots so I tried to get him in between take-offs and landings. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1650291278673-SW49WN71JZP9KUL8QA19/20220416_HES_CampusWalk_0032.jpg Media Gallery - Giant African Millipede Leggy and flexible. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1650291291236-YY41JVNM2YW03HKPPY1O/20220416_HES_CampusWalk_0100.jpg Media Gallery - Variegated Grasshopper Finally found one on the right side of the leaf! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1650291311692-WHEKT92GLTQ21DJ5EHCK/20220416_HES_CampusWalk_0124.jpg Media Gallery - Sheep We took a walk last week and the sheep were out. When we passed by this week, we found some new additions to the flock. Five day old lambs were following their mama around trying to get away from us. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1650292204310-52SHEHVF4L2BLB7N5SSV/20220412_HES_YouthRefresh_0034.jpg Media Gallery - Whisper Game He is wearing noise canceling headphones while listening to music. His task is to guess the phrase behind his head which his teammate is whispering to him. I can’t remember exactly, but I don’t think they succeeded on this one. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1650292133505-55EKE5S4J7XRM9BU4L1G/20220412_HES_YouthRefresh_0421.jpg Media Gallery - Slip, Slip, Slip, and Slide Slip-n-slides are such a hit here, especially on hot days like this one. Our little friend Noah participated last year and when his dad saw the scratches on his chest and back from the rough grass at the end, he made sure Noah wore his shirt this year. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1650292215401-DP0MQSF4DO4WS407KAI8/20220412_HES_YouthRefresh_1643.jpg Media Gallery - Tape Face Because who doesn’t love being able to squish their friend’s into weird, distorted shapes and tape it like that? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1650292356212-7QGYJJV01WP6Y3KRWILB/20220412_HES_YouthRefresh_1783.jpg Media Gallery - Family Music These siblings led worship during the youth retreat, Refresh. Refresh was led by a group from our Canadian teammates’ church. The northern teams joined the southern team and the teens enjoyed learning, growing, and playing together during the week. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1650292545935-1F7IGOH8I5GQVA9EA7UN/20220416_HES_CampusWalk_0001.jpg Media Gallery - A Lot to Carry Charcoal on top, baby behind. The little guy looked as though he was falling asleep at one point, but luckily that pagne keeps him locked into place pretty well while Mom keeps that bowl of charcoal balanced on her head. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1650292560410-IUSGF656VV9YWGLSHTFL/20220416_HES_CampusWalk_0138.jpg Media Gallery - Trim that Tree It is no longer Christmas, but we are still trimming trees around here. Kokoché comes to cut the branches off the trees, knock down some coconuts, and cut down some palm nuts. It is incredible to watch him nimbly move up and down and around the trunks. He and his buddy found it quite funny that I took some pictures and videos. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1651759739271-42DC42V3G297HH2IV2AE/20220505_HES_MahoganyMacro_0011.jpg Media Gallery - African Mahogany The seed pod of the African mahogany tree splits open like a flower and the inside is lined with a papery seed. Mahogany trees have been used for medicinal purposes such as treating malaria, hypertension, diabetes, diarrhea and more. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1656147843825-1WOF163X52SY21N5H0FZ/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Nile Monitor He was found in a garbage can on campus. Here’s what I found out about him: The Nile monitor lizard is the largest lizard in Africa, growing up to 2.1 meters (7 feet) long. Because they eat crocodile eggs, Nile monitors are often seen near crocodile nesting sites. Adult Nile monitor lizards can easily outrun people over short distances. They can also remain underwater for more than an hour. The female Nile monitor lays her clutch of eggs in the active mounds of termites. The heat from the termites acts to incubate the eggs. When they hatch, baby lizards resemble tiny versions of their parents. Source: switchzoo.com https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1656350343666-UHXUJVJ3R8PIGA2GES52/20220516_HES_HBBProject_0045.jpg Media Gallery - Cleft Repair A team of plastic surgeons came to HBB for 5 days. They were able to perform a number of specialized surgeries in that time as their two teams worked tirelessly. Here a 16-year-old boy is having his cleft palate and lip repaired; a surgery which would largely change his quality of life. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1656350452913-ZUB6MSIHQPJT584LZ2NM/20220518_HES_HBBProject_0012.jpg Media Gallery - Prayer Meeting Staff gatherings like this time of prayer occur daily. Not only do they meet as administrative staff but also in departments where devotions, prayers, and business matters are shared. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1656350445128-5X8W6BGQ98SDHABWJUY9/20220516_HES_HBBProject_0135.jpg Media Gallery - Lab Work Lab techs spend their days examining and testing various fluids and specimens in order to find (hopefully) what is causing the symptoms of the patients who come through HBB each day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1656350465378-5T7VMH5SEHP0Z750ZYP5/20220524_HES_HBBProject_0051.jpg Media Gallery - Thyroidectomy It is often amusing to watch surgeons as they work, particularly when they wear specialized or additional equipment to aid in the work. Headlamps often make them look like angler fish. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1656351163121-9C1PLDBBQP72IH80S9LQ/20220518_HES_HBBProject_0039.jpg Media Gallery - Teamwork HBB felled a large grove of teak trees in order to use the land to better serve the patients that are seen. Once felled, they were loaded up on trucks and driven off to likely be made into furniture or other timber for building. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1656351149427-YJ2F7K5Q40T8SS5B82JE/20220518_HES_HBBProject_0043.jpg Media Gallery - Load the Logs The system was rather simple but very effective. 1 - grab the log and get it to the truck. 2- set it on a smaller log to roll it to the back. 3 - flip the log on end to get it on the top of the rank. 4 - repeat. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1656351186559-9FUFEG0IUT3U4D04OZ3O/20220518_HES_HBBProject_0059.jpg Media Gallery - Cooking Many women spend time in the hospital campus’s cuisine (French for kitchen). Patients staying for longer term care, hospitalization, or who live a far distance from the hospital are able to stay in the Rapha House. Family members stay in Rapha House to take care of their loved one who is receiving care. The Rapha House was named by some of the staff at the hospital. It represents one of the names of God - Jehovah Rapha - as the Lord is our Healer. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1656351195326-VXSQ6L0VNOSBB37KTI1J/20220518_HES_HBBProject_0071.jpg Media Gallery - Cooking 2 Many women spend time in the hospital campus’s cuisine (French for kitchen). Patients staying for longer term care, hospitalization, or who live a far distance from the hospital are able to stay in the Rapha House. Family members stay in Rapha House to take care of their loved one who is receiving care. The Rapha House was named by some of the staff at the hospital. It represents one of the names of God - Jehovah Rapha - as the Lord is our Healer. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1656401778840-FGPOE52RTGTMVLHGAOYT/20220518_HES_HBBProject_0063-3.jpg Media Gallery - Faces of Africa 5 Mangoes are sweet and juicy. On a hot day, they are a perfect snack. This particular evening, while the mamas were cooking in the kitchen, this little one decided to have a snack. It was a sticky mess but apparently delicious; eaten just like an apple, skin and all. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1656401728710-DIE4YTWE9LFSAIJ0Y1IA/20220516_HES_HBBProject_0009-2.jpg Media Gallery - Faces of Africa 6 He was sitting with his grandpa and smiled shyly at me. It took a while before we could get him to stop covering his face when I tried to take a picture, but we finally got one. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1656401743553-QVSVOIZHD7V5B8QFSSLE/20220518_HES_HBBProject_0027-2.jpg Media Gallery - Faces of Africa 7 Peek-a-boo. These precious little ones saw our group heading to Rapha House and they called out to the leader “Mr. Andy”, a friend of mine and I had our cameras and we were trying to get some pictures but these giggle boxes kept hiding behind the trees and popping out to play. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1656401821396-OSB1ZC7Z95PMX9NDA0C8/20220524_HES_HBBProject_0151.jpg Media Gallery - Faces of Africa 8 The team we were with was visiting his parents as they had recently been in to the hospital to receive some care. The follow up was for a family member who actually was not home when we arrived, but we enjoyed a visit with the family members who were at home and we think they enjoyed having us…except maybe this guy since he kept the same expression every time. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1656402847943-UK7J9TYRFPW0H0JK0J03/20220524_HES_HBBProject_0085.jpg Media Gallery - More Than a Hospital HBB strives to be more than just a hospital. Certain staff members spend Tuesday afternoons going into the local villages and visiting with previous patients to follow-up medically, learn about them personally, and just continue to build relationships. HBB believes this what it means to love like Jesus: caring for the entire person and not just treating medical needs. The welcomes are pleasant and the time is encouraging for everyone who can go along. These visits also allow the hospital staff to meet more community members and build relationships with them as well. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1656402764183-BG7BXKG8Y84RTEJO6Q58/20220524_HES_HBBProject_0101.jpg Media Gallery - Who is Yovo? Calls of “yovo” ring out in market, on the street, and in villages when we walk by. Yovo, in the local language, means sly dog. It was originally used a derogatory name for white skinned foreigners. Today, mostly with the younger generation, it has been said to have lost its negative connotations and simply refers to a person with lighter or white skin. This group of children also called their friend in the purple pants “Yovo” because of her albinism but we did learn her real name. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1656402774223-PZXPR7ZYOAIZICA0U1ON/20220524_HES_HBBProject_0124.jpg Media Gallery - Greeting The pastor who was with us on visitation was spending a few minutes greeting other folks who had gathered in the small open area near the home of the family we were there to visit. Quite a large crowd had gathered, thanks to a drone (and the word of mouth from our little crew of friends pictured here in the foreground). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1656402860354-Z1XOQ8UK9BU1RVUW1J5P/20220524_HES_HBBProject_0130.jpg Media Gallery - Selfies A group of teenaged girls hung off to the side and talked rapidly in Ewe with one another. A few English words and phrases were heard here and there and the one girl approached several of us and asked if she could take a selfie with us. Once the pictures were taken, they gathered around and excitedly chattered and laughed at the new images. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1656403987198-NILR4GN2B4B7RYEB51EP/20220524_HES_HBBProject_0140-2.jpg Media Gallery - Faces of Africa 9 He was the most vocal of the group and liked to laugh. He made a big display of being sure we captured some of his more traditional African dress in the image. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1656403901447-Q75UBA7O9Q10GJZBKX86/20220524_HES_HBBProject_0120-2.jpg Media Gallery - Faces of Africa 10 She saw me taking photos and beckoned me her direction. She undid the baby from her back and stood for me. I was pretty sure that baby was going to burst into either tears or screams, but neither actually happened. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1656403981468-WAV17RDWB7SW50GHSD0W/20220524_HES_HBBProject_0144-2.jpg Media Gallery - Faces of Africa 11 Recently treated at HBB for something, he didn’t want me to take his photo at first because of the bandage on his head. After assuring him it would be ok, he gave me a smile and then approved the outcome. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1656403880886-JPOEKA9HW4LZO2SN3DBD/20220524_HES_HBBProject_0119.jpg Media Gallery - Faces of Africa 12 The often easy smiles and happy-go-lucky nature of children sometimes makes a photographer’s job more simple. These two may have mixed emotions at having their image taken but they did enjoy looking at the screen to see themselves afterwards. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1657798456810-P3JC8PLAZLFFNRCLXT4T/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Faces of Africa 13 This gentleman was receiving medical care for his feet. In an attempt to get him to smile for a video portrait, he tilted his head back and wiggled his eyebrows, nodding his head and laughing. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1657799423798-877XC50J9XFULG1E5RFQ/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Faces of Africa 14 She was sitting on a bench having a conversation with a friend (see next image) when we interrupted her for a portrait. She was at the hospital to help care for her relative who was sick and receiving medical attention. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1657798729174-MN8IT2Q0SPLLMNKL18W6/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Faces of Africa 15 After we got some portraits of her friend (see previous image), we asked for hers as well. Later on she called me back and told me to take a picture of her while she was eating her dinner. Then she offered me some. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1657798817772-BHXHXWVMAP2AHZ8G42OY/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Faces of Africa 16 At first she did not want us to take her photo. Our friend who was translating for us explained that we were not just taking photographs to share at random but that we had a purpose and that was to share the needs of HBB (the hospital) in order to recruit more providers and partners so the hospital could keep running. She agreed and went to change her clothes. We had a good conversation with her later and were also able to visit with her again before she returned home later that week. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1656404995564-RNTFJVE6B127DNDIXUAG/20220625_HES_KumaCafe_0004.jpg Media Gallery - Hand Roasted In this image, one of Kodzo’s employees is hand roasting a kilo (about 2 pounds) of coffee over a small open fire. Inside the pot is a claw spinner made of rebar and this woman will spend around 1 full hour right beside that hot, open flame roasting the beans until they are ready to be ground and packaged for resale. There is a cafe just up the mountain from where I live. The man who owns it is named Kodzo. He not only grows coffee but also peppercorn, pineapple, and cacao. Several bee boxes around the plantation provide him with honey as well. Kodzo loves to use his plantation - which is not a flat field like you may think but is a grove of planted trees that cover a mountainside - to involve and help his community. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1656404979519-4HCAAL2G09P8RQFNPO2D/20220625_HES_KumaCafe_0040.jpg Media Gallery - Beans These beans were fresh roasted while we at the plantation. See the previous picture for more info if you have not already. There is a cafe just up the mountain from where I live. The man who owns it is named Kodzo. He not only grows coffee but also peppercorn, pineapple, and cacao. Several bee boxes around the plantation provide him with honey as well. Kodzo loves to use his plantation - which is not a flat field like you may think but is a grove of planted trees that cover a mountainside - to involve and help his community. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1658316012059-SWGOLJFKELEL1C1QSZIW/20220713_HES_VOLNight_0002.jpg Media Gallery - Amid the Clouds It was not the easiest night for astro photography but it was interesting! There is still a lot for me to learn in this area, but I enjoy seeing what I manage each time I go out and try again. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1658315998549-YR1UPXBDSMS2OGUPYDZI/20220715_HES_Macro_0001.jpg Media Gallery - Nymph Mantis This little guy was found on a flower near my house. I got out my macro for a little photo sesh with him. My friend Judy, who is a bug enthusiast, told me it’s a type of nymph mantis that actually will have some wings. In some shots you could see the wings preparing to emerge. I haven’t seen him since but he should have them by now. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1658315702907-YZ31EE8KWE8Q6KUW5THK/20220715_HES_PWCPortraits_0017.jpg Media Gallery - Faces of Africa 17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1658315723644-JSZ1L9UID6BEMXX7RSYV/20220715_HES_PWCPortraits_0099.jpg Media Gallery - Faces of Africa 18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1658315721920-PNR8GZ5TB0THG9EF6PJK/20220715_HES_PWCPortraits_0325.jpg Media Gallery - Faces of Africa 19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1658315703554-RLAQLPKQGD67DVAG2IZ0/20220715_HES_PWCPortraits_0076.jpg Media Gallery - Faces of Africa 20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1658316760621-1964RHBQL6UPQ5EHAGK9/20220715_HES_PWCPortraits_0187.jpg Media Gallery - Faces of Africa 21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1658316759315-UY67PSNIMKD9MJW86YZ2/20220715_HES_PWCPortraits_0079.jpg Media Gallery - Faces of Africa 22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1658316778608-GEQUZ9GKNFCHD6NWAVYW/20220715_HES_PWCPortraits_0237.jpg Media Gallery - Faces of Africa 23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1658316774547-Q2WOFIEBY2WPK47NL8YL/20220715_HES_PWCPortraits_0321.jpg Media Gallery - Faces of Africa 24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1659004512746-9P7JLAI9ESBUIHTH9JD4/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Tournesol I love the beauty in the simplicity of a simple sunflower. This one’s been brightening my front porch as it’s bloomed the last few days. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1659004672920-777GJ1UCLLB6LK7CCFPZ/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Aster I’m no flower expert so I’m not positive that this really is an aster, but it looks similar to the asters I’ve seen so that’s what I’m going with for now! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1659004820476-OW5LK6SB7A4UV5RM112E/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Detail in the Wings A dead termite might not seem all that interesting, but I was fascinated by the details of the wings thorax sections which have a hair like appearance in the space which separates them. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1659004896582-P5TBKHB2H6E3NALEDP3X/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Hibiscus The pistil of the hibiscus flower is really neat to observe. The pollen (the yellowish white part) is actually visible in small spheres when magnified. And the stigma is not only a beautiful color but it is “hairy”. The red is covered with small whitish hairs. The detail in these flowers is just beautiful! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1659005252905-DZQ8GFAOEY2SK1DKLR08/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Le Boucher Meet some of the local butchers in town. When we pull into market, the area where we park is paralleled by “butcher row”. Each stand sells basically the same thing; beef, mutton, goat. They sell the meat, bones, skins, and heads. If you look closely at this image, you’ll see a row of goat heads in the middle. Animal heads often sell at a higher price and are a coveted piece to eat. I hear the eyeballs are particularly argued over. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1659005400241-ZLTFNZS3B4R4SZPIIU7E/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Aerial A view of the neighboring area of my home. I was testing out and practicing flying my friend’s drone and was able to see a more expansive view of the area I travel around weekly. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1661942389660-8EN4H2SJDL5Q0EJLR0J6/20220829_HES_RopeBuying_0050.jpg Media Gallery - All Roped In It took 3.5 hours of driving to reach the village where the rope is purchased for Village of Light students and employees to use in making furniture. Once purchased, several children rushed to help load the ropes into the truck. By the end of the day, the bed of the truck was loading with over 1,200 bundles of rope! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1661942383932-PO3NSP7N4Y7V03MPJM5I/20220829_HES_RopeBuying_0040.jpg Media Gallery - That's a Wrap A woman winds a coil of rope around her arm to be sold. She lives in a village where the rope - made from dried leaves of a certain type of palm tree - is made, collected, and sold. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1661942289604-3VV8EXX00B1VIUIN41ZJ/20220829_HES_RopeBuying_0017-2.jpg Media Gallery - Faces of Africa 25 She was making some rope and I took a video of her fingers twisting the leaves together. When I showed her, she said, “my face”. I told her to wait a moment because I zoomed out in a few moments to see her face too. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1661942346918-WAM493MRCSJ62193R51I/20220829_HES_RopeBuying_0026-2.jpg Media Gallery - Faces of Africa 26 No one wanted to be left out of our impromptu photo shoot so they each took turns standing somewhere - usually with some rope to make - and struck a little pose for me. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1661942276786-APQCMPUYUPWPKVG7MRQJ/20220829_HES_RopeBuying_0023-2.jpg Media Gallery - Faces of Africa 27 No one wanted to be left out of our impromptu photo shoot so they each took turns standing somewhere - usually with some rope to make - and struck a little pose for me. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1661942310047-EX5GM107164K6BTAWM01/20220829_HES_RopeBuying_0043-2.jpg Media Gallery - Faces of Africa 28 Age is a high honor. This man was highly respected and you could tell because everyone that entered the house could not move through with bowing low and greeting him. Togo values relationships and respect in a way that is foreign to western understandings and cultures that are not built on relationships. It is really a beautiful thing to watch and experience though. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179738880-U4W5TQCXHHJ8C9SHBMYH/20221007_HES_DowntownAuckland_0003-2.jpg Media Gallery - Sky Tower The Sky Tower is a telecommunications and observation tower and the most prominent landmark in Auckland, New Zealand. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179740954-65MVSJZ6K2YDY6KXHB2V/20221007_HES_DowntownAuckland_0006-2.jpg Media Gallery - Sky Tower 2 The Sky Tower measures 328 meters (1,076 feet) tall from the ground to the Antenna Spire. It also has an observation deck that is open to the public at a height of 220 meters (721.8 feet). This observation deck offers amazing views of the city and surrounding area. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179741468-3WM6BM0HDQUTS875WNXM/20221007_HES_DowntownAuckland_0015.jpg Media Gallery - Capture the Moment I liked his outfit, but mostly his bright yellow hat. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179746058-5I3CJ86ACC7C0WKCZ2B4/20221007_HES_DowntownAuckland_0045.jpg Media Gallery - Auckland Harbour Boats and taxis are regularly seen on the water and cruise ships also make their way to the docks. Auckland is full of tourists and other adventure seekers/sightseers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179746706-MIQK221BCAM1ETRTECXC/20221007_HES_PtChevSunset_0013.jpg Media Gallery - Sunset The first sunset captured in the Auckland area was this beauty just over the Point Chevalier Beach. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179749330-MV6BIHZ8N5V0JTSB0FQY/20221007_HES_PtChevSunset_0156.jpg Media Gallery - Framed in Leaves The first sunset captured in the Auckland area was this beauty just over the Point Chevalier Beach. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179750526-QJZ0TQXZBYJRANHIYC01/20221007_HES_PtChevSunset_0159.jpg Media Gallery - Almost Dark The first sunset captured in the Auckland area was this beauty just over the Point Chevalier Beach. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179758730-NJ7LIQSAAK0F0C5426G4/20221010_HES_CoylePtChev_0154.jpg Media Gallery - Shell Cove Hundreds of small, colorful shells were littered across the sands of Coyle Park and Point Chevalier Beach. These beauties were found between two large rocks after the tide ebbed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179754782-PT7F97J9SS862359HYO8/20221010_HES_CoylePtChev_0056-2.jpg Media Gallery - Skyline The Auckland skyline from the wet sands of Coyle Park before the tide rose again. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179752647-3ZWPWVWB7L4OF2D8MRKQ/20221010_HES_CoylePtChev_0095.jpg Media Gallery - Hidden Treasure I found this little treasure in a small recess in the rocks which are covered in barnacles and other fossilized sea life. Honestly, not overly certain what it is, but things I’ve found point me to a sea urchin or maybe a type of anemone. All I know is the colors and shininess drew me in for a closer look! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179758663-PN76VXA5FDC7VBVEZRBZ/20221010_HES_CoylePtChev_0172.jpg Media Gallery - Pacific Swallow The Pacific swallow (Hirundo tahitica) is a small passerine bird in the swallow family. It breeds in tropical southern Asia and the islands of the south Pacific. Source: the ever reliable wikipedia! https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pacific_swallow https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179756356-DUDK2WUD5Z8AFJVZ5CMI/20221010_HES_CoylePtChev_0125.jpg Media Gallery - Take it In A gentleman came to take in the sights of the Auckland landscape during low tide at Coyle Park. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179762534-3PG1LY5ODFT7I8YKYRQH/20221010_HES_CoylePtChev_0188.jpg Media Gallery - Family Time They were unaware of me sitting behind them capturing sweet moments of their play time. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179765844-8T1AU6PSOJBDKKDY6MX8/20221011_HES_DolphinWatch_0001.jpg Media Gallery - Heading out to Sea Many ships and other boats sit at the docks in the harbour waiting to take the next voyage. This one was seen as I set out in a catamaran to go dolphin watching. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179765704-HKSUHICAE8VGTDBQNLJE/20221011_HES_DolphinWatch_0029.jpg Media Gallery - Sailing Racer In preparation for a sailing race, this boat was out enjoying the winds as it zipped around the gulf with its two chase boats nearby. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179768916-RV2E9IZMH9WVJMNBZOH9/20221011_HES_DolphinWatch_0032-2.jpg Media Gallery - Under the Bar Apart from dolphins, I also saw a number of Australasian Gannets across the Hauraki Gulf. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179770757-OOL997MCCVRC6A3NG5UR/20221011_HES_DolphinWatch_0060.jpg Media Gallery - Anchored Several boats are anchored in the Hauraki Gulf. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179776225-2OJD07XKJLE1N52IT1CP/20221011_HES_DolphinWatch_0258.jpg Media Gallery - Whale & Dolphin Eco-Safari While we didn’t see any whales on this tour, we did see plenty of dolphins in hunting pods! Some swam very close to the boat, including a smaller baby dolphin. The rest of the group hunted while the birds around swooped in to take advantage of a large meal thanks to the dolphins! To find out more about the tour itself check out https://whalewatchingauckland.com/ https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179772725-E59IKX36M90B87NGMU8Z/20221011_HES_DolphinWatch_0092.jpg Media Gallery - Common Dolphin You can learn more about short-beaked common dolphins like this one seen in the Hauraki Gulf of New Zealand by visiting https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/species/short-beaked-common-dolphin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179776211-OAF4G6WQY7HB7RC15YMQ/20221011_HES_DolphinWatch_0341.jpg Media Gallery - Coming up for Air You can learn more about short-beaked common dolphins like this one seen in the Hauraki Gulf of New Zealand by visitinghttps://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/species/short-beaked-common-dolphin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179782175-S5JNT8TAN2BSHDVIDDZO/20221011_HES_DolphinWatch_0367.jpg Media Gallery - Gannet Colony “Large black-and-white seabird with heavy, pointed bill. Adult white with black flight feathers and central tail feathers, yellow-washed head. Feeds in spectacular fashion, plunge-diving into the ocean to capture prey. Juvenile mostly dark with many small white spots. Widespread off southern Australian coastlines and in New Zealand. Breeds in large colonies. In northern parts of range, compare Masked Booby, which has black trailing edge to inner wing, all-black tail, and heavy yellow bill.” Source: https://ebird.org/species/ausgan1 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179782205-98DP1KHTE4DM7G5YKA9S/20221011_HES_DolphinWatch_0388.jpg Media Gallery - Gannet Colony 2 This is the distant view of the gannet colony as we headed back to the harbour. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179785801-MS5OF6PI4SNCXBMLUUKH/20221011_HES_MuriwaiBeach_0013.jpg Media Gallery - Surf & Surfers A week or so before this image was taken, I had taken a similar one in the San Francisco area. There’s something so picturesque about wave riders in carrying their boards back from the ocean. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179786244-8NWCA6HFHJ74EWBXR7KQ/20221011_HES_MuriwaiBeach_0042.jpg Media Gallery - Muriwai Beach Muriwai Beach is a black sand beach in New Zealand. If the conditions are right - when the light is low, the sand is wet, and the clouds don’t interfere too much - the beach sand acts like a giant mirror. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179790810-TV6KVOU4IHLHLNOZTJB7/20221011_HES_MuriwaiBeach_0055.jpg Media Gallery - Muriwai Beach 2 Muriwai Beach is a black sand beach in New Zealand. If the conditions are right - when the light is low, the sand is wet, and the clouds don’t interfere too much - the beach sand acts like a giant mirror. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179793866-WKUJZD4VEZUENYMIGGPV/20221011_HES_MuriwaiBeach_0085.jpg Media Gallery - Gannet Colony 3 *at Muriwai Beach “Large black-and-white seabird with heavy, pointed bill. Adult white with black flight feathers and central tail feathers, yellow-washed head. Feeds in spectacular fashion, plunge-diving into the ocean to capture prey. Juvenile mostly dark with many small white spots. Widespread off southern Australian coastlines and in New Zealand. Breeds in large colonies. In northern parts of range, compare Masked Booby, which has black trailing edge to inner wing, all-black tail, and heavy yellow bill.” Source: https://ebird.org/species/ausgan1 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179796836-LRROJ690T30CE3AD9DVT/20221011_HES_MuriwaiBeach_0103.jpg Media Gallery - Gannet Greeting Australasian Gannets mate for life. When a mate returns to the nest - they are a colony bird, but also territorial of their personal football sized nesting ground - they greet each other by spreading their wings and performing an almost sword fight like greeting with their beaks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179797121-4T6WQAYEZ1Q3B3J7KYRC/20221011_HES_MuriwaiBeach_0138.jpg Media Gallery - Gannet Grooming Once the gannet mates have settled back into their nesting area, they typically groom one another as well, picking at the head, neck, and chest of the other. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179804368-NOAVS5CBZRHR7F9BAN4R/20221011_HES_MuriwaiBeach_0181.jpg Media Gallery - Dotted with Birds The gannet colony at Muriwai Beach is rather large and impressive with a sprawling, cliff view of the Tasman Sea. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179803383-P4BVP3YCT8HEVL1D6BIT/20221011_HES_MuriwaiBeach_0185.jpg Media Gallery - Dotted with Birds 2 The gannet colony at Muriwai Beach is rather large and impressive with a sprawling, cliff view of the Tasman Sea. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179808655-R4TK8YLH20UFIR5ME739/20221011_HES_MuriwaiBeach_0201.jpg Media Gallery - Surf & Turf While the sun was shining, it was a bit chilly and there was a fog sliding over the pines on the shore in the distance making this scene reminiscent of both beach and forest. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179810956-OHKU9WLWIC0WT37U8LF8/20221011_HES_MuriwaiBeach_0322.jpg Media Gallery - Fishing Not sure how well it went for him, but he seemed to be enjoying it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179818401-OTEXEVN0PCMF4XHPPNN3/20221012_HES_BigAdventureDay_0032.jpg Media Gallery - Hobbiton Bilbo Baggins’ house is the highest hobbit hole in the Shire and from the pathway before it you can turn and see the Green Dragon Inn in the distance. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179821901-M3OBCJEE2SJDWYHTWOIC/20221012_HES_BigAdventureDay_0043.jpg Media Gallery - Gardens The gardens in Hobbiton are functional and produce real vegetables. While the homes themselves are redesigned props from the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movie sets, the sheep farm they nestle in still functions and these gardens do as well. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179825594-EG8YZGDUB5FSTKQ1JD44/20221012_HES_BigAdventureDay_0060.jpg Media Gallery - Occupation Each hobbit hole also boasts the hobbit’s trade. You can tell by what is around the home what each dweller does for a living. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179829381-K5CGNJYBXE6WUK2Q5QEJ/20221012_HES_BigAdventureDay_0138.jpg Media Gallery - No Admittance Bilbo’s hospitality at its finest! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179835810-N8MUDPY8BVOB3QGWCRI5/20221012_HES_BigAdventureDay_0204.jpg Media Gallery - Harp The harp at the Green Dragon Inn. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179835774-91JJIRU429N881WUVC4U/20221012_HES_BigAdventureDay_0224-2.jpg Media Gallery - Window Decor Most of the windows in the Green Dragon Inn are decorated with flowers or candles or other bits and bobs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179839452-5DAGYOTDOYOA06278SLD/20221012_HES_BigAdventureDay_0264.jpg Media Gallery - Rotorua The smell of sulfur was overwhelming but the views in Rotorua were beautiful. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179842468-2N6AH34PHRGQOEDZZC0T/20221012_HES_BigAdventureDay_0294.jpg Media Gallery - Waitomo Caves The limestone caves have been lit for tours. Further in, beyond the glow of the lamps, you can ride a boat - steered by the a rope system on the ceiling which the guides are adept at using - to see the glow worms! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179842724-SPRFXBKF0V7YGPQ1PQDG/20221012_HES_BigAdventureDay_0302.jpg Media Gallery - Glow Worms In constant motion, a good image without flash simply isn’t possible, but the trails of the glow were still lovely. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179846055-BII9LFOP8ZJPI8XXRXAP/20221012_HES_BigAdventureDay_0308.jpg Media Gallery - Steering Here’s our tour guide/boat driver. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179846190-0MKVHDOTV6VXWS1X8CDJ/20221014_HES_EdenParkTour_0010-2.jpg Media Gallery - Eden Park Our tour guide, Graham, has been part of the Eden Park history nearly his entire life. His father took him to matches there and he eventually got a job there himself. Not only did he share the history of the stadium, but also the history of the culture around it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179849077-HXX2ZRLY9OQ0FLAUKFOQ/20221015_HES_MatchDay3_0025.jpg Media Gallery - Bungee Jumping You can take a ride to the top of the Sky Tower and put on an orange jumpsuit before harnessing in to take the 53 floor plunge to the earth below with AJ Hackett’s Bungy Jumping. I mean I didn’t, but you can! https://www.bungy.co.nz/auckland/sky-tower https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179854069-Y1GIZE69S6S63HO1AA9C/20221019_HES_ZooPark_0026.jpg Media Gallery - Sali Sali is a Sumatran Tiger who lives in the Auckland Zoo. Learn more about her by visiting https://www.aucklandzoo.co.nz/news/auckland-zoo-to-welcome-sumatran-tiger-sali https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179856249-003D92JG6JCF0KMTB5GB/20221019_HES_ZooPark_0051.jpg Media Gallery - Small Clawed Otters Not sure what caught the attention of this little otter. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179858214-HBC4Q77BVRYYYMWHE1X3/20221019_HES_ZooPark_0107.jpg Media Gallery - Tīeke Also known as the North Island Saddleback, this is a vulnerable bird which is found at the Auckland Zoo. Find out more by visiting https://www.aucklandzoo.co.nz/animals/tieke https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179858918-HKA44GW12PNWI9WY7PYM/20221019_HES_ZooPark_0294.jpg Media Gallery - Jamila & Nyah Nyah is the first baby rhino to be born at the Auckland in 20 years! Jamila, Nyah, and Zambezi (hiding behind the tree) are white rhinos. Jamila was pregnant for 16 months and gave birth to Nyah in August 2022. Photo taken in October 2022 https://www.aucklandzoo.co.nz/news/auckland-zoos-new-baby-rhino-makes-speedy-entry-into-world https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179862580-N6E4YN5WJE9AVW25UBF5/20221019_HES_ZooPark_0332.jpg Media Gallery - Meerkat This was a neat enclosure, but I found the meerkat taking a rest inside the top half of an old car. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179862185-3HNP53BG4W7KITLHNOOP/20221019_HES_ZooPark_0440.jpg Media Gallery - Zebra Finch Fun Fact: Only male zebra finches can sing! https://www.aucklandzoo.co.nz/animals/zebra-finch https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179865960-Z8NUQ2ZGGYBMPPBJMHLM/20221019_HES_ZooPark_0458.jpg Media Gallery - Goliath Stick Insects Fun Fact: when threatened they throw their wings open and hiss to scare off predators or threats. https://www.aucklandzoo.co.nz/animals/goliath-stick-insect https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179873423-8S2KTL7AJVNIIL65LYGY/20221019_HES_ZooPark_0740.jpg Media Gallery - American Alligator There were two alligators that day. The second one was resting on the opposite side of the bridge I was on. On the bridge supports were signs that said, ”Yes they are real. Yes, they eat meat. Keep off the fence.” https://www.aucklandzoo.co.nz/animals/american-alligator https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179870297-UAPNSXY3WRFW1INCJ5VL/20221019_HES_ZooPark_0822-2.jpg Media Gallery - Melur & Bahmi Baby Bahmi was born March 2022 and is a Bornean Orangutan as are mom, Melur and dad, Charlie. He was just learning to climb when I took these photos in October 2022. Fun Fact: Orangutans can build nests in about 5-6 minutes and sometimes make several per day. https://www.aucklandzoo.co.nz/animals/bornean-orangutan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179873738-0HV2W5VDQAJH79404XWY/20221019_HES_ZooPark_0839.jpg Media Gallery - Bahmi What a hairdo! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179879416-DKJFORGUR1OGHUAHVZPM/20221019_HES_ZooPark_0941.jpg Media Gallery - Black Swans A black swan swims across the water followed by its babies. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179879716-JOK76G4LVFR4XU56S1IG/20221019_HES_ZooPark_0965.jpg Media Gallery - Posing This swan kept eyeing me up, but I kept my distance so we didn’t have trouble. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179885666-10Z1J3IJNLMP5R6AATZQ/20221020_HES_MtEden_0005-2.jpg Media Gallery - Maungawhau Maungawhau is the Maori name for Mt. Eden. This site is a dormant volcanic basin and is considered sacred. A pathway extends the rim of the basin to give visitors a place to walk and take in the sights of Auckland from a higher vantage point. The pinnacle of Mt. Eden (just behind me and closed from repairs) measures 643 feet! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179893586-AJQFLUCQJ6329THBQG1A/20221021_HES_Rangitoto_0032.jpg Media Gallery - Skeletons Wreck Bay or Boulder Bay is a small bay of Rangitoto Island. There are a number of ships that were taken there to “die” in years past. The wrecks are best seen at low tide, but you do have to do some hiking on some rough terrain to see them. I arrived later than low tide and didn’t do too much hiking because of time constraints, but this hull was still visible when I arrived. https://www.fullers.co.nz/experiences-tours/nature-wildlife/walk-to-rangitoto-shipwrecks/ https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179898299-ZQX2218Q4J8QI0I0IDX1/20221021_HES_Rangitoto_0071.jpg Media Gallery - Wrecked Wreck Bay or Boulder Bay is a small bay of Rangitoto Island. There are a number of ships that were taken there to “die” in years past. The wrecks are best seen at low tide, but you do have to do some hiking on some rough terrain to see them. I arrived later than low tide and didn’t do too much hiking because of time constraints, but this hull was still visible when I arrived. https://www.fullers.co.nz/experiences-tours/nature-wildlife/walk-to-rangitoto-shipwrecks/ https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675179897422-428NGPVFAPX3EXEDTZCT/20221021_HES_Rangitoto_0090.jpg Media Gallery - From the Summit From the top of Rangitoto Island - another dormant volcano - you can often see a number of cargo ships heading to and from the Auckland harbour. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675262191296-6853ABHWA4FB1Q4K4TAA/20220922_HES_RiverWalk_0012.jpg Media Gallery - Three Mile Island Three Mile Island is a nuclear power plant located along the Susquehanna River. The 4 smoke stacks have been a part of the scenery since the 70s. After a partial meltdown in March 1979, 2 stacks were decommissioned. The entire plant was later decommissioned in September 2019. During its operation, TMI is estimated to have contributed 4% of of the statewide generated power. Word has it that the first unit to be decommissioned completely will occur in 2037 and the final step of decommissioning will take place in 2079. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675262190737-20MEU8XLFY3NAB5PYDNH/20220922_HES_RiverWalk_0058.jpg Media Gallery - Fall in Love As I took a walk by the river, I was admiring the fall leaves. After living in Africa for three years, the shades of orange and yellow and red were a vibrant exchange for the browns and greens I had grown used to. Eventually I happened upon this pretty little leaf which incidentally had a small heart shaped hole in it. What a perfect thing to express my love of fall! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675262193929-V33DQU0P293V7X2W1J31/20220922_HES_RiverWalk_0078.jpg Media Gallery - Blossom Found a few spring looking flowers along the side of the road during one of my walks. These sweet little daisies were enjoying the sunshine as much as I was. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675262197103-RVRCUFUYV8YU7PHQ61TG/20220928_HES_RiverWalk_0037.jpg Media Gallery - Rising Sun The steam rose off the water as the sun climbed higher in the sky, but just before it breached the trees and burned off that fog, I was able to capture it! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1679584574989-QFIXBJCYBVME6ZW25VU2/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Alcatraz Initially, in the 1850s, Alcatraz was set aside for military use as a reservation. However, the Gold Rush in California brought with it a wave of needs, including protection. Alcatraz (from the Spanish “alcatraces” which debatably means “pelican” or “strange bird”) became one of the three points of the “Triangle of Defense” designed to protect the bay. As the need for defense diminished - none of the 100 previously installed cannons were ever fired - Alcatraz remained a prison for more than 100 years. This penitentiary was maximum security, minimum privilege and the purpose was to show that the US was serious about the crime of the ‘20s and ‘30s. There were 14 escape attempts from Alcatraz yet none were successful; the inmates either were found and returned to the prison, or turned up dead later on. The prison was closed in 1963 and today you can simply take tours of the area. https://www.nps.gov/alca/index.htm source: https://www.bop.gov/about/history/alcatraz.jsp https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1679585226896-ETYLNYW8UP1575DP2S0F/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Wilted in Waiting This bouquet was tucked in a small hole on the edge of a cliff face in Pacifica, California and lay wilting in the sun while a heavy breeze kicked up its petals. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1679585836085-27NEXIL12VQD4UEV3ONZ/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Thistle Do Some thistle trivia: The thistle was an emblem of the Virgin Mary in the Middle Ages. Thistles are said by one source to be highly toxic to humans and livestock, yet another talks about every species of thistle being edible. Thistles have a 2 year life span. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1679587088059-HUZNCG7KJRSTH6OO4DTD/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Sunburst A view of the sun through the trees along a path of the Elephant Mountain Loop in Los Altos Hills, California. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1679586279707-C5RF2AB4JYGXRCR8EINF/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Surfer's Wave Pacifica is one of the most popular surf spots for beginner’s in San Francisco. It hosts beautiful views and is relatively protected from winds that hinder new surfers from staying on their boards. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1679585359161-V6J22IDQFLHFV8MD7GTM/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Cypress Cone I am no tree expert, but found these “cones” quite intriguing. As I looked them up to see what types of trees had less cone shaped cones, I discovered that this is likely a cypress tree “cone”. Cypress wood is often used in furniture construction as it is rot resistant. Location: Pacifica, California https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1679587327261-P6128CEC21ITTAR10ZOW/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Clematis Pod A clematis is a vining plant with colorful blooms that come in a variety of shapes. They can have a 25 or more year lifespan. The clematis is a symbol of ingenuity.. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1679586556499-PRAIQNJQE54UWZP1B80R/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Redwoods The redwoods of Muir Woods stretch high above the heads of the visitors in the park. This stretch of trees is known as Cathedral Grove. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675266122536-7Y27SUG7BM2F1ONXPKNN/20221109_HES_LydiaFauthSenior_0030-2.jpg Media Gallery - Senior Portrait https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675265997036-EHOAAHWICY7SQEXFLYOD/20221109_HES_LydiaFauthSenior_0045.jpg Media Gallery - Senior Portrait 2 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675266003850-3ZCE4322300CYSPMDC9G/20221109_HES_LydiaFauthSenior_0264.jpg Media Gallery - Senior Portrait 3 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675266119087-GOPJ0TI7IAV4KOL1N8WJ/20221109_HES_LydiaFauthSenior_0114-2.jpg Media Gallery - Senior Portrait 4 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675266059552-8AIN9BIARY5FOP4A55M5/20221108_HES_ToriFregmSenior_0023-2.jpg Media Gallery - Senior Portrait 5 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675266069803-6CRS4A61JCB5YRW5HAED/20221108_HES_ToriFregmSenior_0132.jpg Media Gallery - Senior Portrait 6 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675266069539-993RX9PF0UBMI5RCALUT/20221108_HES_ToriFregmSenior_0179.jpg Media Gallery - Senior Portrait 7 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675266055533-TXY9A5MNGANHLQ853PT3/20221108_HES_ToriFregmSenior_0123.jpg Media Gallery - Senior Portrait 8 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675264679616-TT2LNU1N5BBS9IODJPJ1/20221210_HES_PhilEllieWedding_0039.jpg Media Gallery - Love The bridal party getting ready for the big “I do”. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675264722908-XJ9Q55NH2GA3AEA9BXPG/20221210_HES_PhilEllieWedding_0184.jpg Media Gallery - Full House The dressing room was spacious enough but felt really crowded at times as the bridal party got hair and makeup done. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675264623400-W9MA5Y350J9ZGUZF2GPJ/20221210_HES_PhilEllieWedding_0251.jpg Media Gallery - Made Up The bride gets her makeup and hair tag teamed by this mother and daughter crew. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675264629918-MDF1VEOS4OFWVXV77X8G/20221210_HES_PhilEllieWedding_0286.jpg Media Gallery - Almost Ready I wasn’t the wedding photographer, so I don’t have many images and I didn’t take any of the ceremony since I was in it! So, this is the last image I got before getting myself dressed and done up and letting the photographer snap shots with me in them as well! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1675266075918-LK3VSYCYLTS0IWZLE9VR/20221108_HES_ToriFregmSenior_0304.jpg Media Gallery - Hello, Moon A quirk in my personality is that I always greet the moon when I see it, and typically after I tell it how beautiful it is. I’m not sure why or when it started, I just know it’s something I can’t suppress (trust me, I’ve tried). Actually, I almost missed this shot, but thankfully I took a peek to my right before driving away from a shoot to notice this beautiful scene. So, I grabbed my camera and jumped out of my truck to get the best shots I could without having my tripod along. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1679588102427-WBRME8XW90PYUBNKLRGB/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Emiliana This skittish kitty was one of the kittens at the Give Purrs a Chance Cat Adoption in Berkely Springs, WV. She was in the corner attempting to hide from everyone else as she was not in the mood to be petted or played with. While cats are not my thing, the family I was with had two very excited young boys that could not wait to get inside and pet, play, and cuddle the cats and kittens awaiting a fur-ever home. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1679588244233-Y4J1HIYTN0A46IVSBDCI/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Sriracha Sriracha spent most of her time trying to escape the kitten room. When she wasn’t making Michael Jordan sized attempts to jump at the window, she was doing her best to squeeze through the gap under the door. Soon enough her immune system will hold up to the older cats and her spay incision will also be healed enough that she can be sprung from the kitten room and roam the rest of the place without limitation - unless someone adopts her first. https://www.givepurrsachance.org/ https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1679587936928-29RVMKLFAIFQ8ZBN23ZL/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Fire Whips Aaron Bonk is a fire artist and performer. During his shows he uses a variety of items like poles, knives, whips, and poi. He juggles and performs other feats with these items, often while they are lit on fire. Not only does he juggle and crack the whips, he cracks jokes, dances, and even sings. This shot was taken during Aaron’s performance at the Lititz Fire & Ice Festival in Lititz, Pennsylvania. Aaron is a world record holder in several categories. You can learn more about him and where to see him perform on his website. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1683550317316-A72GVL09EDDSNOJOLQBC/20230424_HES_KewaloBasin_0076.jpg Media Gallery - Le'ahi In Hawaiian, the words Le’ahi translate to “brow of tuna” and this extinct volcano earned this name because the crater profile looks like the brow and dorsal fin of the Ahi tuna fish. Later it was deemed “Diamond Head” by people who thought the shiny things they found on the side of the crater walls were diamonds. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1683550303663-NEXDZLGYRS7V766V7H3A/20230420_HES_Sunrise_0007.jpg Media Gallery - Cloudy Sunrise We woke up early to catch a sunrise and unfortunately for that dream, it was too cloudy. However, the scenery and the morning were still beautiful. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1683550304811-0MEQ2WO832YYIB4YX37G/20230420_HES_Sunrise_0024-2.jpg Media Gallery - Flipped Just a little experimenting with my Lensball on a morning where the colors of the sun weren’t what I was hoping for. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1683550301446-2YL5AFV5WSJ9ZOK2ONEA/20230419_HES_Sunset1_0030.jpg Media Gallery - Island Sunset A final glimpse of the sun as it sets over the Pacific Ocean on O’ahu. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1683550306228-NJQS4FBWFD7PW9748SLH/20230420_HES_Sunrise_0064.jpg Media Gallery - Surfboard Alley https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1683550307168-3M70BQKS4G34590Q4GP7/20230420_HES_Sunset2_0005.jpg Media Gallery - Aloha The Aloha State, Hawai’i, boasts a rainbow on its license plates. One evening as we went to catch another sunset, there was a beautiful rainbow over the peaks of Le’ahi (Diamond Head). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1683550308201-3U3TFH92QU4Y7UFR9IDP/20230420_HES_Sunset2_0070.jpg Media Gallery - Goodnight, Sun The sunsets were pretty spectacular every evening. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1683550310844-MONC5VBACU52F2RDH9QV/20230422_HES_Haleiwa_0005-2.jpg Media Gallery - On the Pier Some fishermen out on the pier in Hale’iwa, Hawai’i. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1683550312359-BQ5O22Q2Y2ICO91EJ836/20230422_HES_Haleiwa_0010.jpg Media Gallery - Buoy Lounge Some seabirds relaxing on a buoy in Hale’iwa, Hawai’i. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1683550313995-FJU3OOA0G951R5A8P0LT/20230422_HES_Haleiwa_0116.jpg Media Gallery - Swimming with the Fishes In Hale’iwa, you can go cage diving with the sharks! This was a great experience. We spent about 30 minutes in the cage, watching the Galapagos sharks swim around and under the cage we were in. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1683550312237-YQSCMT3P4ULDWAWE98YY/20230422_HES_Haleiwa_0085.jpg Media Gallery - Fetch With the use of the boat’s motor and a silver hydroflask the captain and shipmates are able to “trick” the sharks into coming up to the surface as these things mimic cast off from old bait on fishing trawlers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1683550313714-GQ0F3C6XHBUIYF93K1F1/20230422_HES_Haleiwa_0152.jpg Media Gallery - Ohana Wa'a Ohana means family, wa’a means canoe. On this particular section of the beach in Hale’iwa there were multiple canoes across the sand. So this is the area for the family canoe. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1683550314879-NVYK2XUAW92GXZPEXMK0/20230423_HES_PearlHarbor_0013.jpg Media Gallery - Salvaged This anchor was salvaged from the wreckage of the USS Arizona which was sunk on December 7, 1941 during the Pearl Harbor attack by Japan. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1683550314864-UMV4CCN3K2UCK9IW5ECA/20230423_HES_PearlHarbor_0039.jpg Media Gallery - USS Arizona Model The USS Arizona Memorial was constructed from 1958-1961 by Alfred Preis. This model shows the above and underwater levels. The ship remains are cast out here and the model of the memorial above is to scale. The white dot on the end of the ship represents the white buoy which sits in the harbor and marks the tip of the ship as only pieces of the Arizona are visible above the water. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1683550315936-A8O1B530W03MHI4WI26P/20230423_HES_PearlHarbor_0044.jpg Media Gallery - USS Arizona Memorial Construction: The shape of the memorial is to represent that even though it seemed like a defeat (the caved in center section), there is still hope (the rising ends). On the right end you can also see what is called the “tree of life”. It was designed to inspire contemplation. In this end of the memorial is a wall of names which are the names of the 1,177 who died up on the ship. There are two smaller sections which name the 355 survivors. Flag: Prior to this visit, one of the two remaining survivors, Ken Potts, had passed away at the age of 102. His death leaves one survivor, Lou Conter, 101. The flag was flown at half mast for one week and then presented to Ken’s family. Ken and Lou are among survivors who wish(ed) to be buried near family rather than returned to the ship as others were. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1683550316641-U81R7E4JWDP12AJHL04A/20230423_HES_PearlHarbor_0053.jpg Media Gallery - Gun Turret #3 The most visible piece of the battleship is this gun turret, gun turret #3. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1683550476277-MU6VNPQ8MB2SLCG8GMER/20230424_HES_LeahiHike_0019.jpg Media Gallery - Tunnel Walk This is the entry tunnel into the Le’ahi crater. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1683550467454-JOYGSPQ8NYEEM39T6OKJ/20230424_HES_LeahiHike_0032.jpg Media Gallery - Le'ahi Crater Once inside the crater, you take a walk up some cemented pathways and stairs and can get a view of the crater. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1683550469319-YRO85KOBYDYNJ4A1WD8Q/20230424_HES_LeahiHike_0041.jpg Media Gallery - Diamond Head Lighthouse https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1683550470511-DYR5IJMQDZNERZF41IZB/20230424_HES_LeahiHike_0060.jpg Media Gallery - The Light at the End Heading back out of the crater, you return through the same tunnel by which you entered. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1700218857919-LW7PDMT06X6ZH5AKZ9C5/20231017_HES_MoonShots_0018.jpg Media Gallery - Waxing Just before it fell behind the mountain. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1700218913870-WG7NTV4HQW71MN4QJIX8/20231115_HES_DJIMahoganyTree_0005.jpg Media Gallery - Timber The large mahogany that stood in my backyard was always a little unsettling during storms. So we contacted the forestier and he gave permission to cut it down. So a team came and got to work. With minimal damage and no injuries, the tree is now gone. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1700218896075-4MDUH0XP2EEQOG0TCUJA/20231116_HES_DJIWaterTower_0011.jpg Media Gallery - Demolition A new water tower was installed on campus so now it is time to bring down the old eye sores. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1700218859308-J2IGU9CNUNAJSRBEGEP4/20231024_HES_NightShots_0027.jpg Media Gallery - Almost Full https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1700218899234-Q1HZN6KNY0URR6WL667F/20231021_HES_MKFairDay23_0278.jpg Media Gallery - Orbeez At our MK Fair, we had a game that used Orbeez. I grabbed one as a makeshift LensBall. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1700218884968-EJ1892VNWF4L1VEBMLQ6/20231116_HES_DJIVOLCampus_0002.jpg Media Gallery - Aerial Aerial shot of our campus while things are still green. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1708871519858-NX4FLQU014E8GFR7YHMS/dji_fly_20240206_162332_929_1707237246640_photo.JPG Media Gallery - Hazy Comparison Just a few months with no rain, and a hefty amount of dust in the air and you can have a completely different looking landscape. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1708874576103-8STHUO03JWW012JF8S1J/20240128_HES_VOLWalkAround_0024.jpg Media Gallery - Hey Ewe Went for a walk and found a small flock of sheep searching for a bite to eat. They ran from us but not too far away. They were curious about the camera, but usually looked away pretty quickly. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1708875001306-AXY3S4HEZ6IHFGIT8DL0/20240213_HES_TeensSlipNSlide_1078.jpg Media Gallery - Fails They tried for ages to nail a trick, but only managed to fail. However, they kept laughing on every attempt. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1708874999443-O6G9HBQ1LZ65NUQF4PR2/20240213_HES_TeensSlipNSlide_1117.jpg Media Gallery - Dawn & Barbasol They used soap and shaving cream to make things more slippery. This one caught a mouthful of suds on her cruise. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1708875009353-CBQYHRXKPW1TX7Y0U13Z/20240213_HES_TeensSlipNSlide_1366.jpg Media Gallery - End of the Track Speed is key and he had it! Sped all the way to the edge and realized he was there before he knew it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1708875009854-N29EW8KKQ8BU70Q0GEZ4/20240213_HES_TeensSlipNSlide_1659.jpg Media Gallery - Coming Through! The kids love trying to surf down upright. Once it became “too easy” they started toboganning through. Gotta make sure not to fall and crush your buddies. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1708875057831-13JW50PHVWTW2L4902LW/20240223_HES_VOLFebBreak_0070.jpg Media Gallery - Just Add Water Our blind students at Village of Light School for the Blind enjoyed a school break week. Ending the time they had a day of water based activities like water balloon games, a jug filling race, a water balloon fight, and a slip ‘n’ slide! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1708875058708-9F55WI4LM1O4Q1Q6R1ZP/20240223_HES_VOLFebBreak_0271.jpg Media Gallery - Just Add Water 2 Our blind students at Village of Light School for the Blind enjoyed a school break week. Ending the time they had a day of water based activities like water balloon games, a jug filling race, a water balloon fight, and a slip ‘n’ slide! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1708875080387-VHJ8DQSLRG4YHRRI6SMT/20240223_HES_VOLFebBreak_0706.jpg Media Gallery - Just Add Water 3 Our blind students at Village of Light School for the Blind enjoyed a school break week. Ending the time they had a day of water based activities like water balloon games, a jug filling race, a water balloon fight, and a slip ‘n’ slide! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1708875068588-QVQH4FMMAQ2Y8KEGKU1M/20240223_HES_VOLFebBreak_0729.jpg Media Gallery - Just Add Water 4 Our blind students at Village of Light School for the Blind enjoyed a school break week. Ending the time they had a day of water based activities like water balloon games, a jug filling race, a water balloon fight, and a slip ‘n’ slide! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1712229841101-3I5DWDRTWDT5AUMU5FYE/20240322_HES_LomeNight_0007.jpg Media Gallery - Night Lights Not a common view, but this is the main roundabout in Togo. This was taken from my hotel room window, overlooking the roundabout and the Palais des Congres. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1712229447021-7KF7PNKP9XX82LT1H7GE/20240330_HES_KaraKidsClub_0046.jpg Media Gallery - Happy to Play They were throwing a ball back and forth and he was just as happy as could be. Later he was sitting in the toy tote and I came close to him, he smiled a huge cheesy grin like this one and then reached forward and “tickled” both of my cheeks. The laughter was quite loud. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1712229435862-XITOWXM6VEQ9CD0TZF67/20240330_HES_KaraKidsClub_0235.jpg Media Gallery - Read One thing the kids can do while at Kid’s Club is read. This Bible storybook doesn’t really give them the ability to read since they don’t know English, but they like the photos and trying to figure out what they mean. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1712229447092-S47TLY4FYBDUR766P6XT/20240331_HES_HippoPond_0089.jpg Media Gallery - Fishing at Dusk Took a trip to the Hippo Pond in Mango. In dry season the water recedes quite a bit and it’s a great time to see the hippos. It’s also the best time to see the men casting nets to catch fish to eat and sell. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1712229466914-M5W51MJG25Z2ISQG6I5K/20240331_HES_HippoPond_0130.jpg Media Gallery - Leaning Just a bike leaning on a tree in a rice field. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1712229472556-HIPQKW8SM0VG2VX925I7/20240331_HES_MangoPaques_0268.jpg Media Gallery - Give In this church, the offering is taken as individuals walk up front and drop their money in the sack nailed to one of the support posts. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1712229481645-21MOD9TIN6BEBDQ6CDL6/20240402_HES_LBB_0056.jpg Media Gallery - Maternity Work This teacher had this little one on her back and another little guy toddling around her classroom. In the US we’d be crying out for maternity leave, here they just grab the kids and head to work, no questions asked. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1712229497784-LM5UFHV1CVNSE8DW3IUC/20240402_HES_LBB_0194.jpg Media Gallery - Supplies A look at the classroom from the teacher’s desk. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1712229500688-4D2FX3XSR3PX2QUH9RZ2/20240330_HES_KaraKidsClub_0032.jpg Media Gallery - Flex His buddy posed for me in a strange type of flex. Not wanting to be showed up or left out, he quickly got my attention, stripped off his shirt, struck the pose, and flashed this little smirking wink. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1712229514915-ZSTKEOBSODQBM3YQT2RE/20240330_HES_KaraKidsClub_0050-2.jpg Media Gallery - Camera Shy He laughed when I got in close and then refused to make eye contact. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1712229520716-PTDZP06F3DG5Q271TNYV/20240330_HES_KaraKidsClub_0056-2.jpg Media Gallery - Attitude He’s a feisty one. Full of curiosity and mischief. He may have caused the most trouble that day, but there’s always one in a crowd, right? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1712229526255-SNGGLQD6Y01R03YD5U5H/20240330_HES_KaraKidsClub_0183.jpg Media Gallery - Balance After a while, the kids grew bored of reading, playing with blocks, and using the jump rope as a stunt prop, so the new game became walking across this log. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1727707635560-BAOVWIXA3LALT7IWP7FF/20240928_TGO_AgouHike_HES_0039.jpg Media Gallery - Village with a View View from a hike up Mt. Agou. Mt. Agou is the highest peak in Togo at 985 meters (3,232 feet). It is situated in the Plateaux Region just east of Kpalime. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1727707665345-667LYA8BGQB9PZSP49K8/20240928_TGO_AgouHike_HES_0055.jpg Media Gallery - Build on the Mountainside Part of the hike to the peak of Mt. Agou takes you through some village areas. I can't imagine the erosion that occurs after the rains in the village where homes are located on the mountainside. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1727707648641-KX0FYUGP5LC6H7UOBNPK/20240928_TGO_AgouHike_HES_0057.jpg Media Gallery - Hey Bud Just a flower I found on the hike up Mt. Agou. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1727707668379-42RHMCAMFX2NLHMHL4DQ/20240928_TGO_AgouHike_HES_0122.jpg Media Gallery - Lookout Below View from a hike down Mt. Agou. Mt. Agou is the highest peak in Togo at 985 meters (3,232 feet). It is situated in the Plateaux Region just east of Kpalime. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1732705864358-6IVWHFT4JSZTOEBAX4EF/20241024_TGO_VOLPortraits_HES_0226-2.jpg Media Gallery - VOL Student 1 VOL student and staff portrait day https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1732705866594-9B6R1CI4275IHXF7YZ2F/20241024_TGO_VOLPortraits_HES_0239-2.jpg Media Gallery - VOL Student 2 VOL student and staff portrait day https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1732705873043-W97YQLP11M2P76LOMMKU/20241024_TGO_VOLPortraits_HES_0456-2.jpg Media Gallery - VOL Student 3 VOL student and staff portrait day https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1732705877402-1VC9MPIUGRG4AXATSL53/20241024_TGO_VOLPortraits_HES_0704-2.jpg Media Gallery - VOL Student 4 VOL student and staff portrait day https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1732705879340-CL9KLQB7J8KMNBR66BDD/20241024_TGO_VOLPortraits_HES_0777-2.jpg Media Gallery - VOL Student 5 VOL student and staff portrait day https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1732705886054-72J8GUS5NTHQ4TXXF780/20241024_TGO_VOLPortraits_HES_0913-2-2.jpg Media Gallery - VOL Student 6 VOL student and staff portrait day https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1732705885617-BERPE2TMEOGSE8H6NIZ3/20241025_TGO_VOLPortraits_HES_0202-2.jpg Media Gallery - VOL Staff 1 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1732705893541-WFZHGSAULPFCC44B7Q1R/20241025_TGO_VOLPortraits_HES_0306-2.jpg Media Gallery - VOL Staff 2 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1732705894380-0KB591BRL4RF9BBBEW2W/20241028_TGO_VOLPortraits_HES_0003-2.jpg Media Gallery - VOL Staff 3 Maintenance team portraits for Village of Light. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1732705904285-S2BA2ETPB9V3SWTYHKIC/20241028_TGO_VOLPortraits_HES_0033-2.jpg Media Gallery - VOL Staff 4 Maintenance team portraits for Village of Light. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1732705903933-0NBYO5D25T03Q8JGXJOZ/20241101_TGO_VOLPortraits_HES_0019-2.jpg Media Gallery - VOL Alumna Portraits of former Village of Light Students who now attend school in Kpalime. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1732705913559-BWDLTC4NLITXYBLAZ6D7/20241101_TGO_VOLPortraits_HES_0109-2.jpg Media Gallery - VOL Buds Village of Light student portraits https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1697212156054-CB8XPTGFHMO89WCNOH9Y/20231003_HES_GambiaSurvey_0033.jpg Media Gallery - One Fish, Two Fish, I Fish, You Fish Fishing is an integral part of the The Gambia’s economy. In the town of Tanji, the smell of the ocean and its yield can be repulsive, but whether one likes it or not, fish is a staple good in this coastal country. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1697212139926-2DVPA2MYU0DSID3FDA8P/20231004_HES_GambiaSurvey_0132.jpg Media Gallery - Rainy Season Scene Puddles, sheep, a dirt road, and an ominous sky all spell rainy season in West Africa. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1697212150690-H1YYIVPSIQKA2IFFEBMF/20231006_HES_GambiaSurvey_0267-2.jpg Media Gallery - Driving Home Around 5PM cow and donkey carts can be found heading toward home in the rural areas of The Gambia. While it appears this little guy is in control and driving the cows home, it was apparent that they were well accustomed to the routine and did not need his help. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1697212160796-LNDMEVBIXHUCVG7ABBOK/20231006_HES_GambiaSurvey_0303.jpg Media Gallery - Sudden Storm A sudden storm snuck up on us as we headed out to view the scenery in the farm areas. We turned around and were going to head to a different area until we saw these clouds rolling in quickly and the wind whipping around us. We decided it was wisest to get back to the house instead. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1715869912699-9CGUYLXSRONUGFRBWB91/20240426_GMB_BanjulDay_HES_0023.jpg Media Gallery - From the Arch The city can be overlooked when you ascend the spiral stairs inside of Banjul's Arch 22. It has several platforms to stop on, the upper most having a museum to learn about the arch and the reason it is so special to Banjul. I won't steal its thunder, go and have a look yourself. https://www.my-gambia.com/mymagazine/the-arch-22/ https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1715869927327-BRKXQEFH1WG465UBSSTG/20240426_GMB_BanjulDay_HES_0034.jpg Media Gallery - I <3 Banjul A new sign to the city right by Arch 22. You can tell this is a well traveled road! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1715869954462-Y5FHXNETPCHOCBCTQSVV/20240427_GMB_SatAdventure_HES_0254.jpg Media Gallery - Welcome to Bakau Bakau is a fishing village near Fajara in The Gambia. It is chock full of interesting sights, smells, and mainly people! There is always something going on from boats coming in with fresh catches to catches being sorted, cleaned, and sold to eating those fish! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1715869948342-6U1P9B7OPTRKCDECOOMB/20240427_GMB_SatAdventure_HES_0384.jpg Media Gallery - Smokehouse work A staff worker at Bakau's smokehouse getting water from the ocean to keep cleaning fish and utensils in the smokehouse itself. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1715869998529-NWMXOU4DH6HD5Y1LF2FL/20240426_GMB_BanjulDay_HES_0075.jpg Media Gallery - Attaya - The Basics Here are the basic ingestible ingredients (minus the necessary water, of course) for making attaya. The tea Sugar Mint (technically optional, but personally it's necessary!) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1715869981526-PZ6RRWDOJSI4T1X41YEW/20240426_GMB_BanjulDay_HES_0065.jpg Media Gallery - Attaya - The Vessels Here are the drinking vessels for carrying the caffeine and sugar loaded shot to one's mouth. I have seen attaya prepared many times for different numbers of people and still, only two shot glass sized cups are ever used in serving. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1715869979410-8KOVSH3P9QH6HKQWIA83/20240502_GMB_NKThurs1_HES_0094.jpg Media Gallery - Attaya - The Pour The art of attaya is creating a nice foam head to the drink . This is achieved by a cycle of pouring the tea back and forth from cup to pot and cup to cup. When optimal foam is reached attaya is approved for consumption. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1715869989612-OKXTFZLKI9HPQZ4GZCVE/20240506_GMB_AttayaNLit_HES_0043.jpg Media Gallery - Attaya - The Long Pour Attaya is enjoyed by many at various times of the day and especially after meals. The pour really is the whole heartbeat of the process. The idea is to lengthen the pour to achieve maximum froth! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1715871018669-KQH416F12RRW0JB5YNF9/20240513_GMB_SBFinale_HES_0035.jpg Media Gallery - Vendors Women have small stands set up on street corners or outside of small boutiques so people can buy some simple snacks like fruit and peanuts. Here you could get mangoes, bananas, apples, peanuts, or oranges. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1715870993655-T9EDSTVSP1LLHU4A2LUY/20240427_GMB_SatAdventure_HES_0001.jpg Media Gallery - Pancakes When we think of pancakes, we picture flat little discs of batter cooking on a griddle. Gambian pancakes though are delicious bits of dough dropped in oil and fried up. We would certainly call this a "donut" but as Shakespeare said, "that which we call a pancake by any other word would taste as sweet"...or something like that. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1715871011968-TL67DG24YZ00M0HBRNG3/20240503_GMB_FridayWalks_HES_0075.jpg Media Gallery - Locust Beans This dried fruit resembles raisins. It was used in a dish made with ground peanuts, fish, onions, pepper, and I am sure some other ingredients. My friend was not sure what it was called in English so we looked it up. It is part of a locust bean and it is quite tedious to get it to this stage. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1715870987703-ZT7IYIG7AW2R85Y2FUIX/20240427_GMB_SatAdventure_HES_0198.jpg Media Gallery - BB King BB King is a friend of a friend and he knows how to give someone a delightful meal. He is also a great "tour guide". BB let me take photos and videos of the fish market, walking me along the beach and sharing information about every single thing we saw. Then he led us to the local smokehouse. Finally, he gathered us up some fresh fish and had a local cook make a lovely dinner for us which we ate on the seaside in some plastic chairs or on whatever else we could find to sit. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1715871838514-JOKKSLI0VS8RV9K76FM2/20240427_GMB_SatAdventure_HES_0657.jpg Media Gallery - Seaside Meal Our cook is the lady in white. BB gathered us some red snapper and some ladyfish and took them to this woman. She cleaned and fried them for us and then BB sought out some vegetables to go with it. We had the platter of fish with a "salad" of cucumber and onions covered in spicy sauce. We drank some Vimto as we ate with my favorite utensils - our hands. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1715871824735-S07AVYZ7PCB72P33NKCA/20240427_GMB_SatAdventure_HES_0275.jpg Media Gallery - Salty? Earlier in the week I watched a man bathe his dog in the ocean. The dog was not enjoying it in the least. I thought that was quite the sight until I went to Bakau and found these guys bathing their sheep. This animal was far less happy than the dog, but obviously, you can she had no choice but to go in the water to get clean. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1715871829198-I9V9V0FHPXFBTJJN9P9W/20240427_GMB_SatAdventure_HES_0310.jpg Media Gallery - Net Repairs This fisherman was repairing a net so I stopped to watch for a while. His hands were incredibly fast and agile as he looped and hooked that tool around the rope to repair and secure the net for another day of fishing. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1715871848469-VDWJH1LOXX8KUFSD2PTE/20240427_GMB_SatAdventure_HES_0225.jpg Media Gallery - Bailing Boats Some boats are anchored in the water overnight and fill with some water as the waves come in. To prep the boats during cleaning water is bailed from the hull. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1715872550656-JKA34L4NBC9IQ0RDX893/20240427_GMB_SatAdventure_HES_0518.jpg Media Gallery - Kachikally The crocodile pond is revered as sacred in Gambian culture. After walking through the museum in the entrance, you follow a path that opens to the pool and the crocodiles are just sunning themselves. A guide tells you about the animals and the pool and you are able to touch the crocs. During this visit we steered clear of females though as it was egg laying season so they could get cranky. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1715872531133-3ZVC6QHOB9ZEE4CY9OUU/20240501_GMB_SBtoNB_HES_0048.jpg Media Gallery - Prayer & Study These Islamic materials for prayer and study belong to a guard at the compound in the North. He allowed me to film him praying and answered questions I asked. The main one I had in this instance was why he had the rock. With his arthritis, he is unable to kneel so when it was also necessary to touch his forehead to the ground he could not. This rock is a substitute for the earth. he touches it to his while bending as far to the earth as possible during his prayers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1715872540927-CQQIF1ZPKFC9VJ2R058H/20240502_GMB_NKThurs1_HES_0119.jpg Media Gallery - Chicken Power I just found these chickens on this old engine to be a fun photo. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1715872549096-PN4XTFSL8C98XEYA5WP9/20240513_GMB_SBFinale_HES_0066.jpg Media Gallery - Man O' War I learned a lot about these brightly colored inflatable bags. They are a type of jellyfish but they have no real way to swim or navigate. They are essentially a balloon of air that float around the surface and carry a pretty nasty sting. Because they do not swim well and are full of air, they get beached easily and die on the sands. But even dead they can sting for quite some time so be careful! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1715874010959-4IUMMC55LRHKC5JMKKV1/20240426_GMB_BanjulDay_HES_0208.jpg Media Gallery - Fish Market Went to the Albert Market and our "tour guide" for the day showed us into the fish market. It was smelly but everyone was happy, true to Gambian form. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1715874009929-ECAN3DTWZ75DRTU0D91K/20240426_GMB_BanjulDay_HES_0217.jpg Media Gallery - The Barracuda Butcher This is a big man with a big machete who was using a club of wood to help cut up some nice looking barracuda. On my first shot...I was definitely in the "splash zone". https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1715874022387-2U4FD57U0R8JOUPIKHG7/20240427_GMB_SatAdventure_HES_0423-2.jpg Media Gallery - "Take My Photo" Well, ok, if you insist! This man wanted his portrait done. He chose the spot and the pose. I won't argue with that! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1715874016336-40XIMCX1N2VG89JG8LHI/20240427_GMB_SatAdventure_HES_0428-2.jpg Media Gallery - "Keep It Safe" He asked me to keep the portrait safe so it made it to America ok. Hopefully making it back to Togo is equivalent. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1715874023180-OEYDFGGDBNORAZ7JZXVW/20240503_GMB_FridayWalks_HES_0094.jpg Media Gallery - Before Prayer I was walking with a friend near prayer time one day and these kids saw my camera and started striking up some poses and then gathering some friends to join the party. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1715874031049-82PD8TR9L9ZG1S3SZJ3X/20240503_GMB_FridayWalks_HES_0103.jpg Media Gallery - Age & Style This friend of a friend was arriving for prayer and obliged us with a portrait opportunity. He was very well dressed for his Friday prayers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1715874028849-PQR3H7KTZH72LRDLJ9Q6/20240503_GMB_FridayWalks_HES_0113.jpg Media Gallery - Before Prayer 2 Another gentleman that allowed us to do a portrait on his way to Friday prayers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1715874034782-T3YYP0DBUYO4Z2PFG91J/20240504_GMB_LumaMkt_HES_0005-2.jpg Media Gallery - Livestock Market At the Saturday market this group of boys grabbed some buddies and kept orienting themselves in front of me so I would take photos of them. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1715875958185-YBOPWTVOPY1XUXKIKUFN/20240501_GMB_SBtoNB_HES_0070.jpg Media Gallery - Bride We arrived at a friend's just in time for the wedding party to bring in the bride. She paraded around in this outfit for a while before heading back to change into another. I am not sure how many she wore in all but I think we saw her in just two. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1715875963730-KAIJZIQC0KIK4QR3V46L/20240505_GMB_SunWeddings_HES_0035.jpg Media Gallery - Griot This man is a griot (Gree-yoh). He plays a large calabash drum (usually with sawblades for the musical implement) at events like weddings. What is unique about this particular one is that he wear shotgun shells on his fingers when drumming the outside. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1715875339587-EWCBHKMPXXTULLVE28WH/20240506_GMB_MondayEve_HES_0050.jpg Media Gallery - Gewal At weddings there are people hired to get the party going. These women are called gewals (geh-wahs). They carry megaphones and they will rile up the guests to dance. I learned that their "job" is familial and is passed down the line. It is customary to give them tips and dance as they call you out for being at the wedding. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1715875370000-2PHCYN7LLX8KZJOOXBMT/20240429_GMB_MonEvening_HES_0019.jpg Media Gallery - Beach Musicians This local musical group plays for tourists and others at the beach. They sing songs and medleys for tips. This particular group has some unique instruments and they sing in French, English, and Wolof. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1715874058134-Q1ZRZ7U5Q2Y44BQ0ZZPI/20240513_GMB_SBFinale_HES_0019.jpg Media Gallery - The Carpenter This guy was more than happy to let me come and video his shop, his work, and him! Of course he asked for the photos and videos afterward and I was more than happy to supply them. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1715874047006-I6GJFP9AP5M43JCEKK12/20240509_GMB_NKFinale_HES_0052-2.jpg Media Gallery - My Name is... He kept calling me "tubaab" (foreigner) even after he knew my name because he wanted to get my attention. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1715874055449-IPBSCM8M22W7T9HFITL9/20240509_GMB_NKFinale_HES_0070-2.jpg Media Gallery - Shy Got this one between lunch and attaya. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1715874044447-GB50JRMELIYM3DP1AZCC/20240509_GMB_NKFinale_HES_0044.jpg Media Gallery - Unsure They called my friend in Wolof and asked for a photo. We walked over to them and then were unsure if they really wanted a photo. I took a few but this was my favorite. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1715874040850-CP2ZZL21HKGO03A1PE96/20240505_GMB_SunWeddings_HES_0090.jpg Media Gallery - Laughing I was leaving a wedding and getting stopped along the way for photos. This guy stopped me but then wouldn't stand up. So he laughed at me when I tried to get to his level. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1715874052154-BDP12RDPUTH0U2O68GEP/20240509_GMB_NKFinale_HES_0064-2.jpg Media Gallery - Little Guy His mom cooked us lunch - which was quite tasty - and he puttered around later on. The wind cover on my camera's shotgun mic intrigued him quite a bit so he came over to check it out. Before he left, I got this photo of him. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1700220670041-X8PSFQLOTIX2EM8CQ1YV/20231103_HES_GeorgeSurvey_0051.jpg Media Gallery - Overhead I got out my camera during out sports time and was instantly mobbed by this crew. Suddenly my camera was way more interesting than rugby or football. I couldn’t get them all to give me enough space to focus, so we just went with what we could get. Still ended up with some great shots. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1700219578208-TKDCKMWCYZ7LZ3QWN8FD/20231107_HES_GeorgeSurvey_0627-3.jpg Media Gallery - Big Bull This bull elephant is one of two at the Garden Route Game Lodge in South Africa. He was happy to display his beauty for us while he grazed the field beside our truck. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1700219600689-7T5Z389LGT48IINNOCKN/20231107_HES_GeorgeSurvey_0804.jpg Media Gallery - Awake She was awake but not in any rush to get up. This female and her two counterparts were enjoying a sunbath while the male slept soundly just nearby. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1700219610643-EB5ESH1YJ1Q77C6T3UJC/20231106_HES_GeorgeSurvey_0520.jpg Media Gallery - Touching You These two elephants had just finished eating before the one on the left started to pester the one on the right. All the elephants at this sanctuary were rescued. Three were rescued from Botswana and 2 were rehomed from Kruger National Park. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1700219615115-PK9IUSGJXAPNASA6LTIE/20231107_HES_GeorgeSurvey_0545.jpg Media Gallery - Isolated Dramatic clouds and sprawling skies make for gorgeous contrasts against the plains grasses. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1700219586944-QJVKKY8KVXN2Q1AV9ORD/20231107_HES_GeorgeSurvey_0690-2.jpg Media Gallery - Bare This tree - I believe it may be an acacia - rested on the hillside at the Garden Route Game Lodge providing a stunning landscape. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1700219595972-XGD65KZE0ZX7DRN12D5H/20231107_HES_GeorgeSurvey_0762.jpg Media Gallery - Stripes These are plains zebras found at the Garden Route Game Lodge. This herd included two juveniles. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1700219605067-FU5Q3KWFHJHKPPW9IAV8/20231105_HES_GeorgeSurvey_0356-2.jpg Media Gallery - On the Rocks Enjoying the weather, and hopefully catching some fish, these fishermen had ventured out on the slippery rocks to cast a few lines. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1719585661482-C31OOZ5H1414GETDBYQB/20240619_ZAF_Oribi_HES_0095.jpg Media Gallery - Goat Eye At the Fun Farm at Lake Eland, this goat kept looking for a snack. I didn't have one, but I took advantage of him presenting his eye in the evening light. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1719585647329-OQU3DL9ROJ5TK1J3LWKV/20240618_ZAF_LastShots_HES_0025-2.jpg Media Gallery - Ice Cream Break While filming at a traffic circle, I realized I wanted a shot of the small "shop" on the corner. It was always open when I drove past and the same folks were usually sitting nearby. When I asked if I could film this small group of guys, they were happy to let me. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1719585647620-IWPUMBBX6UJUU8NKZIWG/20240602_ZAF_CCCandBapt_HES_0039.jpg Media Gallery - Full Immersion Darin Ishler baptizes four youth at a neighbor's pool. These young men made professions of faith and were taken through a class about what it means to accept Christ's words that He is Lord and to believe on them in order to be saved. They also learned the importance of the public symbol of baptism as an identifier of Christianity. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1719585664889-FILUUY4BVHCTVG9R7D7P/20240621_ZAF_FoodParcel_HES_0045-2.jpg Media Gallery - Thankful We visited a friend and her son was in for a visit as well. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1719585659138-X8Y792ZW9MQP7N87LPJI/20240619_ZAF_Oribi_HES_0010.jpg Media Gallery - Oribi Gorge The suspension bridge over Oribi Gorge at Lake Eland. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1719585653906-XH90U7VH4SGVACTZRGGC/20240619_ZAF_Oribi_HES_0037.jpg Media Gallery - Suspended Coming down the bridge. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1719587514052-7RP2W4SRZ5KLOC6T8BW8/20240625_ZAF_TableMtnTrip_HES_0051.jpg Media Gallery - Winter Fog The weather was sunny and pleasant during this winter day, but the fog was hanging on tightly from the summit of Table Mountain. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1719587514624-GXJVS1E9PYMAOHPZGY2T/20240624_ZAF_CPTDay1_HES_0011.jpg Media Gallery - Oceanfront Enjoyed a crisp walk by the ocean on our way to dinner one evening before our conference in Cape Town began. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1719587526407-FZ2R9JGNHUF6JD7JCY4R/20240626_ZAF_VandA_HES_0074.jpg Media Gallery - Sun & Surf Caught the sunset over the shore at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1719587520903-5COUHEJ9V1DGUIVPBJPE/20240625_ZAF_TableMtnTrip_HES_0071.jpg Media Gallery - Mist & Shadow I am a huge sucker for shade, silhouettes, and fog amid the mountains. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1719587521490-2HD0R4RD8OS6355FK7H0/20240625_ZAF_TableMtnTrip_HES_0063.jpg Media Gallery - Get Low Most people take shots from eye level - which is often the most visually boring angle one can find. Adjust your height to be more interesting! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1719587526667-Z20MU9O8KM3ANA13CAZU/20240626_ZAF_VandA_HES_0013.jpg Media Gallery - Waterfront Sunset Caught the sunset over the shore at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1719587540050-H8XXMLZUNKFQ3GCTQFHU/20240627_ZAF_Penguins_HES_0038.jpg Media Gallery - Tandem I did a touristy thing and went to see the penguins. The part I liked better were the shades of blue on the water, mountains, and sky. I was wishing the whole time that I was out there with these folks in a kayak of my own. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1719587531242-1MBGHMYQ3ASTCLM2PIAV/20240627_ZAF_Penguins_HES_0012.jpg Media Gallery - Boulders Bay I did a touristy thing and went to see the penguins. The part I liked better were the shades of blue on the water, mountains, and sky. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1720426243388-ZZYRE9JAK8BF4CXIB63R/20240706_ZAF_Hermanus_HES_0048.jpg Media Gallery - Tidepool At a penguin colony in Betty's Bay, you can walk near and among African penguins and other wildlife, and there are little tidepools you can look at to find different sea creatures. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1720426240174-MGGHJF6VQP3T5V08SSYO/20240706_ZAF_Hermanus_HES_0075.jpg Media Gallery - African Penguins At a penguin colony in Betty's Bay, you can walk near and among African penguins and other wildlife. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1710245825105-5F1Y7TDMKNJ878Q1RZRG/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - San Jéronimo el Real Europe offers a wide selection of architectural wonders. One of my favorite type of building to photograph is a cathedral. The magnificence of the building and the beauty of the artwork outside as well as within is a visual feast. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1710246566153-J4DEDYSXDUIMS8W7VBMU/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Catedral de la Almuneda Younger than may of its counterparts, this cathedral was started in 1883 and finished about 100 years later. It was then consecrated by Pope John Paul II. It’s an opposing facade against the skyline and offers incredible views, acoustics, and colors within its walls. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1710246721854-5OCUBE6UG52X8036UOUG/20240301_HES_MadridWalk_0074-2.jpg Media Gallery - Gerhard Grenzing This organ is of German make, created by Gerhard Grenzing. It was not being played the day I was there but you can see this video on YouTube to hear it being played. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4LilPpv4uFI https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1710246723309-IIN3Q9U70P5ORJV39XCA/20240301_HES_MadridWalk_0079-2.jpg Media Gallery - Gerhard Grenzing 2 This organ is of German make, created by Gerhard Grenzing. It was not being played the day I was there but you can see this video on YouTube to hear it being played. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4LilPpv4uFI https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1710247257872-SGR3SDFCRIFXDHA5AH3E/20240305_HES_PlazaMayor_0027-2.jpg Media Gallery - Face of an Artist I saw him from a distance and knew I needed to get his portrait. After he finished drawing, I asked him for his portrait and he agreed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1710247285070-KC6PEO2G8DQ20CKFKBZZ/STZ_8381.jpg Media Gallery - Keep Exaggerating I saw him from a distance and knew I needed to get his portrait. After he finished drawing, I asked him for his portrait and he agreed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1710247247036-8VPMWLT7N0K7QRX9ZNBJ/20240304_HES_InterviewDay_0066.jpg Media Gallery - Tell Me Your Story Miguel Ángel is a pastor in Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain. He met with a storytelling team from Cedarville University with Storytellers Abroad through ABWE to tell a bit about his life, the needs of his church in Spain, and to share how others could be involved in helping to meet those needs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1710247273866-LU483F015T9I0AKNSEGU/20240306_HES_SAMMWShots_0021-2.jpg Media Gallery - Urban Portrait Capturing a man in the midst of the city where he works. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1710247247227-0CFSZJX1GHRXU8AD4HZB/20240301_HES_MadridWalk_0138-2.jpg Media Gallery - "Are you an American...?" I was heading to a sweets shop when I heard someone in English say to me, “are you an American photographer?”. I turned to the voice to see this man on the street. After telling him yes, he asked if I wanted to take his photo. I obliged, sent him the file later, and that was that. Cameras open doors to photograph life in the city. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1710247266705-DORBBJOS7ZZVQT2TRXJB/20240306_HES_SAMMWShots_0009.jpg Media Gallery - Cherry Blossom A pretty little bloom for a macro shot. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1725034887657-NQIDTUEDUK9P37D92HZ6/20240804_ZMB_Sun1Church_HES_0231-2.jpg Media Gallery - Light Reading A boy looks through a Bible white sitting outside after church. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1725035038509-X82ZVZ4CR5KL8NSO71PA/20240818_ZMB_Nyangwena_HES_0174.jpg Media Gallery - Joyful Noise I am truly convinced that there is something deeply rooted in the DNA of my African neighbors that is made alive by music. From the joy in their faces to the movement of their bodies, the rhythm and harmony just naturally lives in them. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1725034891343-VKGBAO0BFGG4RPQTM4CY/20240804_ZMB_Sun1Church_HES_0227.jpg Media Gallery - Timid He was timidly sneaking glances and stopping briefly in front of my camera trying to see what I was up to. I grabbed this one when he stopped just long enough for me to do so. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1725035066944-XBL7ZUAGRTZU61MMEWKR/20240825_ZMB_AIUChurch_HES_0121.jpg Media Gallery - Kwacha Got? The offering plate remains near the door after the initial collection is taken in case any late goers want to give or if anyone missed the basket and wants to give on the way out. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1725034877694-T9CKW190FF87YLB2YJDF/20240804_ZMB_Sun1Church_HES_0063-2.jpg Media Gallery - In This Corner The pastor of Emmaus Baptist Church sits in the front of the room and uses the outside light to follow along in his Bible with the teaching of a guest speaker. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1725035074763-2UA38CP5R5T0XR5I5A6J/20240827_ZMB_AIUWork_HES_0094.jpg Media Gallery - Farmer's Son While his dad and some of the students worked in the garden, this little guy strolled on in with his jar lid and serious face to check out what was happening. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1725035027340-CVV66EXVUCOL2W04Q9WN/20240806_ZMB_FoodDistrib_HES_0081.jpg Media Gallery - Passing By A typical village home in Mufweshia, Zambia. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1725035027100-L84WWQROHJXKK5QK05IS/20240818_ZMB_Nyangwena_HES_0120-2.jpg Media Gallery - Watching He was entertaining his little brother for quite some time during church. The little brother was tied onto his mom's back and this guy kept getting in close to bump noses, give kisses, and make little brother giggle. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1725035045402-3Y34HU0E4NSDOK2XUTOP/20240823_ZMB_Seniors_HES_0097-2.jpg Media Gallery - Graduating Class Individual portrait of a 2024 senior from Ambassador International University. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1725035052283-HFSH1LJDUVD2S3AZ5EWG/20240823_ZMB_Seniors_HES_0103-2.jpg Media Gallery - Graduating Class - 2 Individual portrait of a 2024 senior from Ambassador International University. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1725035053675-LMGYBARTZXNDY1T9UCE1/20240823_ZMB_Seniors_HES_0111-2.jpg Media Gallery - Graduating Class - 3 Individual portrait of a 2024 senior from Ambassador International University. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1725035061693-IKAC6UT3BRCE552ALU3X/20240823_ZMB_Seniors_HES_0116-2.jpg Media Gallery - Graduating Class - 4 Individual portrait of a 2024 senior from Ambassador International University. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1725035045527-CHHMT534E8KJLJOT1YTN/20240819_ZMB_AIUCampus1_HES_0045.jpg Media Gallery - Bros International universities are special because they allow students to learn not only academic subjects but about the people and culture of other countries around them. They develop strong friendships and sometimes even plan to begin businesses together. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1725035088840-UUFBC35M9ND8PLGCEOUR/20240827_ZMB_AIUWork_HES_0098.jpg Media Gallery - Cat Feast Students participate in work scholarship programs as part of their education at AIU. This student, working in the kitchen, drains some fish broth and juice from a pot which attracts the campus cats from all over. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1727707249596-0Y8X6E72WEVSA5TL8SW5/20240829_ZMB_Staff_HES_0010GlassesEdit-2.jpg Media Gallery - Staff Portraits of the 2024 staff at AIU. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1727707252252-ORZO5PGMVANS9GB25EYP/20240829_ZMB_Staff_HES_0054-2.jpg Media Gallery - Staff - 2 Portraits of the 2024 staff at AIU. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1728386592141-TRBC6L3ILNHMI1OEJ152/20240905_TZA_DarShots_HES_0027.jpg Media Gallery - Cashew Point These cashew points are quite common to see on the streets of Dar es Salaam as Tanzania is known for its cashew production. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1728386595545-BXLLKPVZT4LWZOGU6DJ7/20240905_TZA_DarShots_HES_0031.jpg Media Gallery - Vendors Fruit being sold at roadside stands. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1728386438279-LYAGRBT8D4X86G8703TH/20240905_TZA_DarShots_HES_0034.jpg Media Gallery - Shell Station These coconut bikes are commonly spotted along the side of the road and are a great place to stop for a refreshing drink. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1728386586797-RSU9EHQ1EUV81NHW2Q87/20240905_TZA_DarShots_HES_0013.jpg Media Gallery - Reflective Driver Reflection of Bajaj driver in his side view mirror. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1728386599666-Q7U1Z9XTMB73RRSKJYRC/20240906_TZA_BTCP_HES_0004.jpg Media Gallery - Class Reading The Biblical Training Center for Pastors is an 18-month program designed to train church leaders. This course is taken on the ministry property in Dar es Salaam. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1728386605271-BQ8RY2I1X4JQIQUBLAPH/20240906_TZA_BTCP_HES_0011.jpg Media Gallery - Course Materials Class materials for a BTCP course. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1728386624899-KUIFCDQ1ZV9FDWI1874U/20240908_TZA_SundayShoot_HES_0002.jpg Media Gallery - Sunday School Children's church during Sunday School in Kivule, Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1728386638282-LE2OZFT8I1E6EX80KXJ2/20240908_TZA_SundayShoot_HES_0019.jpg Media Gallery - Boredom This guy must have been bored so he put this bag on his head. When it would fall off, he would catch it and put it back on. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1728386626609-MKOJ8U5GE49JOD3DNAS4/20240908_TZA_SundayShoot_HES_0008.jpg Media Gallery - Petition Prayer time during church. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1728386439562-COEGDEYQIFM56GVPTT5T/20240908_TZA_SundayShoot_HES_0011.jpg Media Gallery - Definitely, Nope She was not a fan of the strangers in the church that did not share her skin tone. She stood there like this for some time but then made it a point to stay away from us and tried hard to not even look our direction. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1728386644405-09IFYHHUSGH1O6RLE676/20240908_TZA_SundayShoot_HES_0031.jpg Media Gallery - Praying Hands Aaron Boon praying for a church member in a church in Kivule in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1728386635691-52JO6XT0ZB0OQFS4CBFN/20240908_TZA_SundayShoot_HES_0022.jpg Media Gallery - Preaching Pastor Samweli Chacha preaching at his church in Kivule, Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1728386652743-O24N8DMDAM65B246SB62/20240908_TZA_SundayShoot_HES_0035.jpg Media Gallery - You Can't See Me A young boy plays a bit of "peek a boo" with the the missionaries during lunch after church. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1728386448326-7572DQ037BOP6W962N66/20240908_TZA_SundayShoot_HES_0041.jpg Media Gallery - Family Pastor Samweli, his wife Mary, and their three children have seen God provide in times of difficulty after he decided to become the pastor of the church. But after receiving Bible training for his ministry, and agricultural training to support his family, they are thriving in both areas and seeing the fruits of God's work in their lives and the lives of those around them. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1728386657873-LAWGWWFQ3OMJ723YGWN9/20240908_TZA_SundayShoot_HES_0047.jpg Media Gallery - Mishkaki Riding "mishkaki" which is the Swahili word for meat stick. This term is used when 3 or more people are riding on the same motorcycle. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1728386618337-ZYPUAI5Y83V7KTGBAQBB/20240908_TZA_SundayShoot_HES_0005.jpg Media Gallery - Hello, Friend A lady selling vegetables from her front yard. At this point she thought I was still taking video so she wanted to wave. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1740656863814-DOX2T8OHM975ZW3B22WN/20250117_TGO_MtnBurn_HES_0006.jpg Media Gallery - Mountain Fire Burning the mountain in Kpalime during harmattan to prepare it for the next planting. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1740656888336-CL5KGEM0PMC5Q9SIU7MJ/20250213_TGO_AdetaDS_HES_0166.jpg Media Gallery - Math Time Liz Ortiz facilitates math time at the Adeta Deaf School. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1742394899997-0SCMK1GVYATFGYK8S1JN/20250213_TGO_AdetaDS_HES_0168-2.jpg Media Gallery - School Day Students at the Adeta Deaf School pose for photos. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1742394904431-1T98NW91DXXWOGX7EEDJ/20250213_TGO_AdetaDS_HES_0350.jpg Media Gallery - Salute A student at the Adeta Deaf School poses for photos. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1743766467851-3N2M1TX9P9KQCJPM7GE1/20250401_TGO_FloFDemo_HES_0011.jpg Media Gallery - Grandmama My friend, Florence allowed my colleague and I to bring out photography class to her house one morning so they could practice taking pictures in a “live setting”. Her mother (Grandmama - for respect of her age) came out to join us soon after we arrived and was happy to have her photo taken as she watched everyone work. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1743766463997-1E5OOSWOMQ8MRNFUL0H4/20250401_TGO_FloFDemo_HES_0023.jpg Media Gallery - Double Vision These goofy goats were surprisingly pretty comfortable with my camera being so close to them. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1743766479661-MM82F2PISCKFXYR1KTB6/20250401_TGO_FloFDemo_HES_0029.jpg Media Gallery - Wrapping the Kom Florence is wrapping kom she made at her home in Tsiko, Togo. The mix is wrapped in corn husks to keep in heat and moisture and keep out dirt and bugs. Kom is a Togolese dish made from ground corn mixed with water and is sometimes fermented. The dish is then served with sauce and usually fish. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1743766491133-SGJKNO7UKPTC4AUVW3C3/20250401_TGO_FloFDemo_HES_0036.jpg Media Gallery - Chicken Crossing A chicken crosses the yard while photography students work in the background. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1753957964834-HR1XHDFWQOF1CNGJARS2/20250625_TGO_BFICenter_HES_0010.jpg Media Gallery - Registration One of the workers at the pregnancy clinic in Kpalime, Togo works on registration paperwork during a check-up day. This clinic has a pertnership with Beautiful Feet International. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1753957968934-65L59KSXTZZYIMAUHEYC/20250625_TGO_BFICenter_HES_0011.jpg Media Gallery - Peek A Boo A young girl playing peek-a-boo with the camera at the Solidarité clinic, partnered with Beautiful Feet International, in Kpalime Togo. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1753957972010-8QWKUK5F2LJRDJX145L7/20250625_TGO_BFICenter_HES_0012-2.jpg Media Gallery - Kisses A mother gives her daughter kisses at the Solidarité clinic, partnered with Beautiful Feet International, in Kpalime Togo. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1753957981005-6IHZOTJGOKVWDLAP7PGV/20250703_TGO_BFICenter2_HES_0006-2.jpg Media Gallery - Hello There A mother and daughter before their appointment at a pregnancy center, partnered with Beautiful Feet International, in Kpalime, Togo. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1753957976176-6COSPT0K5M9E2YV3SDB3/20250703_TGO_BFICenter2_HES_0076-3.jpg Media Gallery - Baby E Baby E entertains himself during his mother's appointment at a pregnancy center, partnered with Beautiful Feet International, in Kpalime, Togo.. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1753957989971-YXYQ6A7FSCJK220KQEJM/20250703_TGO_BFICenter2_HES_0120.jpg Media Gallery - Baby G Baby G was having a hard time sitting still during her mom's appointment at a pregnancy center, partnered with Beautiful Feet International, in Kpalime, Togo.. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1752075666278-82E9OVK3833YU43QRCTG/20250708_TGO_DeafVBS_HES_0087.jpg Media Gallery - Bible Lesson Kristin DeVries shares a lesson on creation, sin, and salvation at the Adeta deaf school VBS with Liz Ortiz. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1752075679116-4PFWXBI2WCRUNWGOWTZU/20250708_TGO_DeafVBS_HES_0013.jpg Media Gallery - A Helping Hand One student at the deaf school in Adeta helps another to finger spell his name. Here he is trying to make the letter “f”. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1753958486669-BV94SS1NYCARYWUGP4FU/20250724_TGO_DeafCampD1_HES_0005-2.jpg Media Gallery - The Crazies She was very happy to do funny, silly, and crazy things for a photo. We had quite a few laughs when reviewing the shots. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1753958492194-Q7G4PIBRLKLCOCCHSYPF/20250724_TGO_DeafCampD1_HES_0010-2.jpg Media Gallery - Sweetness She had a little less frenetic energy than her sister but was happy to pose for photos. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1753958500186-0W6EHFSR1I7J6CGOOD7O/20250725_TGO_DeafCampD2_HES_0009-2.jpg Media Gallery - Curious He did quite a bit of staring me down while he sat on his mama’s lap. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1753958503008-TAVSKSP1MEW2R5OB0VD3/20250725_TGO_DeafCampD2_HES_0270.jpg Media Gallery - Asleep A baby sleeps on the floor in the back of the children's classroom during a session at Deaf Camp in Kpalime, Togo. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1753958513235-XBNIY0O48ZT2HA66A64C/20250725_TGO_DeafCampD2_HES_0350.jpg Media Gallery - Too Close A child poses with his clay creation for a photo. It was a tad too close to the camera for the aperture though. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1753958514330-E5UCSQWSJCTLLAM4CBAE/20250725_TGO_DeafCampD2_HES_0402-2.jpg Media Gallery - New Friend A boy smiles for a portrait at Deaf Camp in Kpalime, Togo. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1753958523979-5D7TCTH68BBY6BNH9QK7/20250725_TGO_DeafCampD2_HES_0667.jpg Media Gallery - Jumping Through Hoops Outdoor games were played each day at Deaf Camp in Kpalime, Togo. Including relays of different sorts and tug o' war. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1753958536073-9IKQ7A6SQZH7RMR5WDUZ/20250726_TGO_DeafCampD3_HES_0701.jpg Media Gallery - Unimpressed This guy was having trouble on the slip ‘n’ slide at Deaf Camp in Kpalime, Togo. When his mom tried to help him out, she slipped an fell, leaving him unimpressed with her effort. Though she and others found it comical, she paid for it as well as her dress ripped. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1753958532660-HF4MYG47A71OST1GPOUB/20250726_TGO_DeafCampD3_HES_0131.jpg Media Gallery - Coloring Coloring activity during the children's lesson on the birth of Jesus at Deaf Camp in Kpalime, Togo. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1753958800094-6DV78ZOYKOB2VGPQHNNM/20250727_TGO_DeafCampD4_HES_0244.jpg Media Gallery - Elephant in the Room Kristin DeVries plays a game with the children during the final session at Deaf Camp. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1742395360847-XVHOO6I7JVBUBTXHLJ6S/20250304_ESP_Madrid_HES_0009.jpg Media Gallery - Central Focus Inside the Almudena Cathedral in Madrid, Spain. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1742396240788-FLH8NGTFXFI4PO7XKFIK/20250305_ESP_Segovia_HES_0005.jpg Media Gallery - Segovia Castle Facade of the Alcazar Palace from near the entrance gate. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1742395338210-N3CR19U11QG98JFIO4QO/20250305_ESP_Segovia_HES_0031.jpg Media Gallery - Segovia Scenic shot in Segovia, Spain. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1742396224297-3M0PCM6NT0MLK323LM8H/20250305_ESP_Segovia_HES_0029.jpg Media Gallery - Flying High The Spanish flag flying in the wind atop the Alcazar Palace tower. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1742395351450-ZVXZG4LK1WA44QJPRSGW/20250305_ESP_Segovia_HES_0042.jpg Media Gallery - Cathedral Corridor The cathedral corridor was impressively lit and I couldn’t pass up the shot! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1742395366823-0UCW43OC904P70TM3CR5/20250305_ESP_Segovia_HES_0045.jpg Media Gallery - Corner Booth Cathedrals often have ornately designed alcoves on the outer edges where people can go to reflect. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1742395371421-RT05P3XG98TF1R6TLWV4/20250309_ESP_ElFaro_HES_0026.jpg Media Gallery - Action One of our Storytellers Abroad participants shoots scenes in El Faro church in Alicante, Spain. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1742396234396-LJJO3V2QPPFJANW9RDBV/20250308_ESP_SAMMWDay1_HES_0020.jpg Media Gallery - Meet & Greet Students spend time talking with those willing to share their stories for videos. Here Ami Bunnow talks with her storyteller, Fernando. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1742396246551-81VHFGKR31M7FIFILRAN/20250308_ESP_SAMMWDay1_HES_0049.jpg Media Gallery - Meet & Greet 2 Students spend time talking with those willing to share their stories for videos. Here Juliana Alteria and Alanis Arroyo talk with their storyteller Joel Villarroel through their interpreter, Aida. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1742395375041-5QZWIA6HNR4QHJFXBHOE/20250309_ESP_ElFaro_HES_0044.jpg Media Gallery - Solving Problems Storytellers Abroad instructor, Jeff Raymond, helps participant, Juliana, to find some settings on her camera while shooting b-roll in El Faro church. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1742396253329-KHDHG14082O30TN9HA6D/20250309_ESP_ClassTime_HES_0055.jpg Media Gallery - Instruction Storytellers Abroad instructor, James Dockery, shares some wisdom during a conversation with participant, Larry Stack. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1742396256409-XA5Q9SQNZRGX09OIIHRX/20250311_ESP_AlicanteTrip_HES_0039.jpg Media Gallery - City Center The Spanish flag flies in a centrally located roundabout in Alicante, Spain. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1743766813696-BFTWBQJGLG5AY6HVWPBV/20250311_ESP_AlicanteTrip_HES_0087.jpg Media Gallery - Storm the Castle Stormy skies over Alicante, Spain seen from the castle on the hill. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1742396261102-CIAHVVCSCZY1O7Q68SOC/20250312_ESP_ClassTime_HES_0009.jpg Media Gallery - Working Together Storytellers Abroad staff member, Allison Basye, works with participant, Amelie Bunnow, on her story. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1742396318972-IPLPFWYI9AESPHEFGHNQ/20250315_ESP_AliWalk_HES_0024.jpg Media Gallery - Luceros Fountain The Luceros Fountain, a modernist structure in Alicante, Spain, was built in 1930 by local artist Daniel Bañuls and is a prominent landmark in the Plaza de los Luceros. It's known for its decorative elements, including four horse sculptures and an elf figure, and serves as a key location during the Hogueras de San Juan celebrations. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1742396266207-73UOYJEY5PEOYABNAD7Q/20250313_ESP_Paella_HES_0167.jpg Media Gallery - The Paella Man The pastor of El Faro Church in El Campello is a jack of all trades. On top of pastoring and his electrical work, he is also a skilled paella maker. He offered to make dinner for us one night during our workshop. It was quite delicious! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1742396274565-BKGH29S1T7SVBOHLKGNC/20250313_ESP_Paella_HES_0183.jpg Media Gallery - Paella Time The preparation of the paella for serving. We were specifically instructed not to just scoop up the paella. First, one has to scrape the paella from the edges into the center of the pan before serving. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1742396274953-FCRSINN1LWHGJD8C2M4S/20250314_ESP_AMWalk_HES_0007.jpg Media Gallery - Morning Departure Heading out for work, a normal day on the Mediterranean. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1742396287773-XQMQX9FXIM4JTIUBG36E/20250314_ESP_AMWalk_HES_0040.jpg Media Gallery - Worse for Wear These flags were pretty well destroyed by the high winds and sea air. I was surprised they were still allowed to fly, but there weren’t the only ones I’d seen like this during my trip. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1743766810636-FRNR0AMA5ZWZ2H5I3P8G/20250314_ESP_JMBRoll_HES_0017-2.jpg Media Gallery - Joel & Magaly Pastor Joel Villarroel and his wife Magaly pose for a portrait on the beach. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1743766825101-91NTW3SZN4UTX4R2CJJL/20250315_ESP_ECSunrise_HES_0016.jpg Media Gallery - The Final Sunrise The sunrise in El Campello, Spain. Taken on the last day of our workshop. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1742396284439-R5IXPZLRUJF42QPR2FXJ/20250315_ESP_AliWalk_HES_0002.jpg Media Gallery - Jose Espinosa The meat vendors were very busy during our visit to the market. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1742396290727-7A53HRLG9KSQH0M9Z3VC/20250315_ESP_AliWalk_HES_0023.jpg Media Gallery - Sidewalk Saxophone I was looking for live music on every corner and finally found this guy playing away on his sax outside the market in Alicante. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1743766824871-I30L5GPSE8AVILNPUZXB/20250315_ESP_AliWalk_HES_0012.jpg Media Gallery - Meat Market A meat vendor in the market in Alicante, Spain. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1750253267738-MTJT9QRJNXWA6GN9CW47/20250530_ZAF_GameDrive_HES_0033-2.jpg Media Gallery - Guide The game drive guide at the Buffelsfontein Game Sanctuary. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1750253253126-QUVKAQBT661N9YCHVQUZ/20250523_ZAF_MomSiya_HES_0001-2.jpg Media Gallery - Siyabonga Portrait of Siya, administrative assistant at Simayene Center for the Disabled. Siya has cerbral palsy. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1750253287750-2YLW6VLEG8JIEM2QILS9/20250601_ZAF_HVChurch_HES_0059-2.jpg Media Gallery - Simplicity This guy came up to me before the kids left church one day and asked me to take his portrait. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1750253249432-XIRDGH3UGN4NM0O3A2MV/20250517_ZAF_TwpShots_HES_0002.jpg Media Gallery - I Like Your Hat This young man asked me to take his photo while he was on his way home from work. With a hat like that and an even greater smile, I’m only ever too happy to oblige. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1750253258025-1F3VO68GHS70MB7YA3B4/20250523_ZAF_MomSiya_HES_0027.jpg Media Gallery - A Mother's Love Portrait of Siya, born with cerebral palsy, and his mom, Lindeka, outside their home. He is an administrative assistant at the Simanyene Centre for the Disabled and she is a caregiver at the Simanyene Residential Home. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1750253870162-GSGNU1AWOCGPHZ5NJ31O/20250516_ZAF_SCDDay3_HES_0011.jpg Media Gallery - Assistive Learning Education at the Simanyene Center for the DIsabled involves arts and crafts. Many assistive and specialized tools are required for varying disabilities that allow them to do “normal” tasks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1750254420953-3G0UMSUUJ1MT7FHCI8Q4/20250519_ZAF_SiyaSDC_HES_0044.jpg Media Gallery - Joyful Education at the Simanyene Center for the DIsabled involves language arts and maths. This young lady was always happy to greet me and share what she was doing when I arrived. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1750253807114-BR9F47MCK8374RYKFMUB/20250519_ZAF_SiyaSDC_HES_0033.jpg Media Gallery - Food Prep The children are fed a nutritious meal for lunch each day at the Simanyene Centres. Each meal is prepared by an "in-house" cook. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1750253310978-NMUP99T6Z7CPZ6WQLR3P/20250516_ZAF_FarmWalk_HES_0002.jpg Media Gallery - At the Farm View from the Faure Farm in South Africa. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1750253259266-LL0JZC7GD2QELI7VST28/20250524_ZAF_FunDayDrive_HES_0139.jpg Media Gallery - Shades View at Cape of Good Hope from the lookout and lighthouse. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1750253796361-7ZEPJ43FIW8QNO23TE9X/20250516_ZAF_FarmWalk_HES_0009.jpg Media Gallery - Natural The remains of plant life at the Faure Farm in South Africa. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1750253842198-8L29VE7GWH3ZB7BJAPZI/20250524_ZAF_FunDayDrive_HES_0162.jpg Media Gallery - Cape of Good Hope View at Cape of Good Hope from the lookout and lighthouse. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1750253819808-1NWKU1QAVZZQ1PTF3UDC/20250524_ZAF_FunDayDrive_HES_0050.jpg Media Gallery - Fresh Fish Fish carcasses drying at Kalk Bay before being sold. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1750253846952-AJCEP05SB2FLXMSDYNJ8/20250531_ZAF_TableMtn_HES_0005.jpg Media Gallery - Hiking Platteklip Hike up Table Mountain via the Platteklip Gorge trail with the Simanyene church groups. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1750253835587-YIKE1Q68JZCF7XSS14YS/20250530_ZAF_GameDrive_HES_0011.jpg Media Gallery - Caged Lionnesses in an enclosure at the Buffelsfontein Game Sanctuary. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1750253283139-RT43GLN78LRNHQI2R6YD/20250530_ZAF_GameDrive_HES_0018.jpg Media Gallery - Wild Eland on the savanna at the Buffelsfontein Game Sanctuary. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1750253290109-GSH7GULXONSAXN2LBZ24/20250601_ZAF_HVChurch_HES_0063-2.jpg Media Gallery - Confidence Our young friend was looking a bit sullen in her individuals. Turns out she simply needed a friend for a little confidence. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1750254003050-38JETACDKEJWAT1UBTGE/20250601_ZAF_HVChurch_HES_0049-2.jpg Media Gallery - The Guys Portraits with friends are important to have. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1750253294313-I581WEXVPCF422POC5US/20250601_ZAF_HVChurch_HES_0086-2.jpg Media Gallery - Waiting A young girl passes time outside during the church service. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1750253299154-0CKHQAXQMVLTKTHFA0E4/20250601_ZAF_HVChurch_HES_0183-2.jpg Media Gallery - The Neighbors They crashed the shoot and begged for a shot. Turned out alright, no? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759161680963-KGTMCN5RR053QM8F3F1I/20250812_ENG_QTDay1_HES_0003_z.jpg Media Gallery - Leake Street Went walking through London since I had a few hours to kill before my flight and discovered the Leake Street Arches by chance. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759161666580-EUJI4L8TWVWYCWEHLQ3T/20250812_ENG_QTDay1_HES_0011_z.jpg Media Gallery - Big Ben The Elizabeth Tower, originally called the Clock Tower, but better known as Big Ben, is the clock tower of the parliament building in London. It is a symbol of democracy and one of the most iconic landmarks in England. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759161735440-X4PE2P17175OT2F1O2JF/20250812_ENG_QTDay1_HES_0012_z.jpg Media Gallery - Parliament Took a look through the outer gates of the parliament building. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759161726252-PW8GIOHT07FPHU6OLGVS/20250812_ENG_QTDay1_HES_0017_z.jpg Media Gallery - Westminster Abbey I did not have time for a tour, but I stopped to take in a view of Westminster Abbey. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759161757138-5E1HP2DPP7HT5FVOJSP1/20250812_SCO_EDINight1_HES_0001_z.jpg Media Gallery - Too Slow Changed the settings of my camera but they were a bit too slow. The light trails as I moved the camera to make the change were a pretty neat “whoops” though. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759161746284-IPFRKCGFKCRFD1SDGSRF/20250812_SCO_EDINight1_HES_0005_z.jpg Media Gallery - Edinburgh Castle The Tattoo was happening in the evenings, so the lights from the show lit up the castle to create a unique “two-sided” effect. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759161830885-OAFN2LYKGWP2N8W1OXUC/20250813_SCO_EDIDay1_HES_0051_z.jpg Media Gallery - Busking We took a walk and heard the notes of a saxophone swelling as we got closer. Eventually, we walked up on this scene and paused for a few moments to enjoy it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759161793315-APQE059SWDQD2BZYJ9SF/20250813_SCO_EDIDay1_HES_0041_z.jpg Media Gallery - Circus Patrick Circus Patrick is a street performer we saw in Edinburgh. We caught the last few minutes of his performance as he mounted his 7 foot unicycle and juggled 3 machetes in the midst of a large crowd. You can find him on instagram @circus_patrick https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759161794302-DVXGC9BIMLMR5I5O6R31/20250813_SCO_EDIDay1_HES_0001_z-2.jpg Media Gallery - Edinburgh On our daily adventures, we often took a walk down the same path that led us to this busy street intersection. It was full from all the festival goers and made for a great shot. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759165242557-JRDBH0RY3KMGJQQ1NE6K/20250816_SCO_EDIFinal_HES_0001_z.jpg Media Gallery - Victoria Street Took a walk down the iconic and colorful Victoria Street. We stopped in a few shops, went to the market stalls, and then stopped at Mary’s Milk Bar. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759162063698-GJUD4OBEJ1IJDKUVJDR4/20250816_SCO_EDIFinal_HES_0002_z.jpg Media Gallery - Mary's Milk Bar After watching Somebody Feed Phil, I decided to take a visit to Mary’s Milk Bar. While I debated on getting the spaghetti sundae, I opted for a dish of sorbet and ice cream instead. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759165188203-91L1LBDO6OTPB590IVD5/20250813_SCO_EDIDay1_HES_0013_z.jpg Media Gallery - Pipe Organ Took a walk into another cathedral to collect another organ for my files. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759161826116-1TTXLKXLPO6PV68PTNDD/20250814_SCO_BusTourDay_HES_0007_z.jpg Media Gallery - Kelpie In Falkirk, Scotland there is a sculpture of 2 equine like mythical creatures called Kelpies created by Andy Scott. Kelpies were said to be shape shifters but most commonly took the appearance of a heavy horse, like a Clydesdale. These mythical beasts were quite dangerous, said to wait by the shores of the water and drown prey, particularly children. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759164550117-Q91GRILC0VH4RA2B5RWA/20250814_SCO_BusTourDay_HES_0002_z.jpg Media Gallery - The Kelpies In Falkirk, Scotland there is a sculpture of 2 equine like mythical creatures called Kelpies created by Andy Scott. Kelpies were said to be shape shifters but most commonly took the appearance of a heavy horse, like a Clydesdale. These mythical beasts were quite dangerous, said to wait by the shores of the water and drown prey, particularly children. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759161872059-L99Q2MO0AJGEBYTVSX0O/20250814_SCO_BusTourDay_HES_0009_z.jpg Media Gallery - Loch Lomond One item on my “bucket list” for Scotland has always been going to Loch Lomond. On the bus tour I was on, we stopped at Loch Lomond and took a short boat cruise around it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759161869248-MCWT6IB6I41LIY5PUT60/20250814_SCO_BusTourDay_HES_0010_z.jpg Media Gallery - Loch Lomond 2 Another view from the boat tour on Loch Lomond. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759165235921-AYZLRK1BE6P5SGBINVSJ/20250814_SCO_BusTourDay_HES_0033_z.jpg Media Gallery - Stirling Castle On the bus tour, our final stop was Stirling Castle. Enjoyed a walk through to take in its beauty and history. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759161915948-ZO5XP2YRZSN9WAQ5ADPL/20250814_SCO_BusTourDay_HES_0025_z.jpg Media Gallery - The Great Kitchens An exhibit at the Stirling Castle in Scotland rests below ground. The Great Kitchens shows sculpted scenes of various areas in a busy kitchen working to serve the royal family. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759161910871-OJV8U7GBSEJJDHAIU8BW/20250814_SCO_BusTourDay_HES_0022_z.jpg Media Gallery - The Great Kitchens 2 An exhibit at the Stirling Castle in Scotland rests below ground. The Great Kitchens shows sculpted scenes of various areas in a busy kitchen working to serve the royal family. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759161951612-QB1TZ107CLBJPYM7NUSY/20250814_SCO_BusTourDay_HES_0038_z.jpg Media Gallery - Poppies Wild poppy seed pods in the gardens at Stirling Castle. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759161966432-W0SJ80KO8NFO5AP4Z9AV/20250815_SCO_Glasgow_HES_0001_z.jpg Media Gallery - Hello, Glasgow Took a day trip to Glasgow to get some donuts and visit the city. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759162029842-TEGX65SZS8NHLUY18V45/20250815_SCO_Glasgow_HES_0013_z.jpg Media Gallery - University of Glasgow https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759161992213-Q85UHCRGESTQZ0LSVZAG/20250815_SCO_Glasgow_HES_0003_z.jpg Media Gallery - University of Glasgow 2 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759162035925-6BIN2OOUIFYW8BL05ZRW/20250815_SCO_Glasgow_HES_0024_z.jpg Media Gallery - Necropolis A necropolis is a cemetery - it comes from Latin words that essentially mean city of death. The necropolis held a number of large, old gravestones dating back centuries. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759167549911-2JJGR5N0GVQAU0VBX7GZ/20250815_SCO_Glasgow_HES_0016_z.jpg Media Gallery - Succulent Stopped in at the Botanical Garden in Glasgow for a change of scenery. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759162064620-A97QFV1RTDT01OVOLWDC/20250815_SCO_Glasgow_HES_0028_z.jpg Media Gallery - St. Mungo A wall mural depicting a modern day version of St. Mungo stands in Glasgow, Scotland. Australian artist, Sam Bates (@smugone on instagram) named this one “The Bird That Never Flew” when he painted it in 2016. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759169576527-ZBRNPEWBQ5Y3EFDZUL75/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Newhaven Lighthouse This lighthouse replaced a smaller lighthouse just off shore. Built in 1869 by James Dove and Co. this cast-iron lighthouse was used until 1930. Today it is used only as decoration and has been fitted with LED lights that change color. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759162087503-HLAJ05KGFGOOCJTOVSJY/20250816_SCO_EDIFinal_HES_0009_z.jpg Media Gallery - Western Harbour Lighthouse This abandoned lighthouse in Leith sports fresh graffiti tags. It was built in the 1950s and was previously known as “Point of Leith”. With changing shipping patterns and bad weather, the lighthouse was decommissioned and has fallen into disrepair. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759162176855-A6M1AGEV48RNWG6X9OEI/20250818_NIL_Belfast2_HES_0016_z.jpg Media Gallery - Belfast Peace Wall The Belfast Peace Walls are made up of over 60 barriers in Northern Ireland. The original purpose of these barriers was to separate the Catholic/Nationalist and Protestant/Unionist communities in 1969 due to violence. Today they are permanent reminders of physical and social division. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759162115514-JW92N4YZ1NRMRXR6G6YR/20250818_NIL_Belfast2_HES_0006_z.jpg Media Gallery - HMS Caroline This ship turned museum sits in a slip at Alexandra Dock in Titanic Square in Belfast, N. Ireland, UK. Caroline is a British WWI light cruiser. She was launched in 1914 and was decommissioned in 2011, opening in 2016 as public museum. She is the only ship to remain from the Battle of Jutland. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759165144728-ETKUHYU7RS2JB0GHTF8H/20250818_NIL_Belfast2_HES_0005_z.jpg Media Gallery - Titanic Belfast The Titanic Belfast is a museum in Titanic Square in Belfast, N. Ireland, UK. The history of the titanic is shared in 9 different galleries. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759162116477-V08RSF6PVI9D37CYIOZZ/20250817_NIL_Belfast_HES_0012_z.jpg Media Gallery - The Searcher In Belfast, N. Ireland, UK, there is a park called C. S. Lewis Square. On a walking trail around the park are statues depicting characters from Lewis’ “The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe”. This one, however, is a bit different. Titled “The Searcher”, it is a representation of Diggory Kirke from “The Magician’s Nephew”. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759165272956-LVTPJ3O3EJ71TKDRSYG0/20250817_NIL_Belfast_HES_0002_z.jpg Media Gallery - Maugrim In Belfast, N. Ireland, UK, there is a park called C. S. Lewis Square. On a walking trail around the park are statues depicting characters from Lewis’ “The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe”. This one is titled “Maugrim” and depicts the captain of the White Witch’s guard in the book. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759165274728-LO9EFVHFONW6IKG1EOUG/20250817_NIL_Belfast_HES_0005_z.jpg Media Gallery - Aslan In Belfast, N. Ireland, UK, there is a park called C. S. Lewis Square. On a walking trail around the park are statues depicting characters from Lewis’ “The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe”. This one is titled “Aslan” and depicts the creator and king of Narnia. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759169277300-49IRE48VG9UL7EW8AVQC/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - Belfast University https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759167582352-H4E61IAJPJ4GIIIORU0B/20250818_NIL_Belfast2_HES_0012_z.jpg Media Gallery - Tilted Time The Albert Memorial Clock is located in Belfast, N. Ireland, UK. It was completed in 1869 and is one of the most prominent landmarks in Belfast. Today the tower leans slightly as it was originally built on wooden piles on marhsy, land around the River Farset. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759165161703-JBGGWW6L9Y1X3A7ZJ4LZ/20250819_IRL_Dublin_HES_0004_z.jpg Media Gallery - Famine Memorial These hauntingly gaunt statues are part of an installation purposed to memorialize a horrific disaster that struck Ireland from 1845-1852 and caused more than 1,000,000 citizens to perish from starvation. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759164489220-PUFSJ8GW1511B3PMW1I5/20250820_IRL_Dublin2_HES_0003_z.jpg Media Gallery - Dublin Cobbles Just a cobblestone street near George’s Street Arcade in Dublin, Ireland. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759164493059-5TKS6S6MFTIMI10E24RV/20250820_IRL_Dublin2_HES_0001_z.jpg Media Gallery - Ships The EPIC Museum in Dublin, Ireland is a unique and interactive museum that tells of the heritage of Ireland in several galleries. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759162148416-75Q2TYN75J7EMSVZ3APA/20250819_IRL_Dublin_HES_0001_z-2.jpg Media Gallery - Jolly Neighbor This gentleman and I sat at tables near the entrance of The Celt. He nursed a drink and read the paper while I ate some Irish stew. We had informal chats about the poor folks tripping in and out of the entrance’s small step. When he saw my camera as I left, he asked for a photo. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759162194506-THW8XRT53L0MJEES0TVL/20250819_IRL_Dublin_HES_0003_z-2.jpg Media Gallery - Dublin The Jeanie Johnston sits on the River Liffey in Dublin, Ireland. Today she serves as a museum detailing her past venture as a passenger ship that took 2,500 people across the Atlantic during the Great Famine. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759167633974-WPIZN8L2EZNY170LWECU/20250820_IRL_Dublin2_HES_0002_z.jpg Media Gallery - George's Street Arcade Opened in 1881 as South City Markets as Dublin’s first purpose-built Victorian market. It was destroyed by fire in 1892 but has been rebuilt and is open yet again and remains one of Europ'e’s oldest city markets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759162221912-S4AQIKHSHOEO1VCBL873/20250820_IRL_Dublin2_HES_0009_z-2.jpg Media Gallery - Matthew 25:40 This church has stood for over 1,000 years in heart of Dublin, Ireland. The statue in the bottom left corner is called “Homeless Jesus and was created by Canadian artist, Timothy Scmalz. The bronze sculpture is covered with a blanket making it impossible to distinguish the identity. The artist instead used its exposed, nail-scarred feet to do so. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759167624008-MYPBH1GOFUAYCOBR75GT/20250820_IRL_Dublin2_HES_0005_z.jpg Media Gallery - Dublin Castle The exterior of Dublin Castle in the courtyard in Dublin, Ireland. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759162232900-FUTH3ZR3SY9G0MWR3YD4/20250826_WLS_Cardiff1_HES_0003_z-2.jpg Media Gallery - Llandaff Cathedral Took a walk toward Cardiff from the Airbnb. Along the way, I noticed a cathedral on the map and added it to my destination list in hopes of collecting another organ. The walk down the stairs felt a little like Alice’s trip down the rabbit hole, steep, uncertain, exciting, and rather curious. Ended up at this beautiful entryway of a door within a door and took time to get this shot before heading in for more. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759162275994-BZOG547C21HW8EST84JJ/20250826_WLS_Cardiff1_HES_0010_z.jpg Media Gallery - Christ in Majesty Jacob Epstein created this 16 foot aluminum sculpture in 1957. It is called Christ in Majesty, and is also referred to as the Llandaff Organ Arch. While it made the “conventional” organ image quite impossible to capture, I love what it added with its uniqueness to my collection. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759162260923-H2F515OVBLWW7QPZRZNX/20250826_WLS_Cardiff1_HES_0015_z.jpg Media Gallery - Unorthodox While in the cathedral it was evident from the low thrumming noise resonating through the nave that some type of service or oratory was taking place. Quietly, we walked through the building observing the art and history inside. When we reached the chancel we found the source of the voice. The priest was holding what appeared to be a time of prayer with several parishioners. Grabbed this shot from the left transept. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759162306828-E1O91VKMPYMF70RODVDH/20250826_WLS_Cardiff1_HES_0017_z.jpg Media Gallery - St Fagans Castle Located in Cardiff, Wales, UK, St Fagans Castle is a 16th century Elizabethan mansion. It has several rooms you can visit and shares a bit about what a day in the house may have looked like for both residents and servants. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759162302789-ORR5PTHC5N6BZE0N7UO7/20250826_WLS_Cardiff1_HES_0018_z.jpg Media Gallery - Orb In St Fagans Castle, above one fireplace, two orb lamps hang to provide dim, warm light in the room. The outer section appears to made from a sort of cast-iron. I am uncertain when they were added as they are not original to the 16th century design. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759162337306-ITDOFHHX0XMPI3P0I3X7/20250826_WLS_Cardiff1_HES_0026_z.jpg Media Gallery - Pegged At St Fagans National History Museum in Cardiff, Wales, UK, there are many structures that were rescued from different places within the country and brought to the museum site. This barn is called the Stryd Lydan Barn was originally built in Penley, Flintshire in 1550 and was re-erected at the museum in 1951. It was the first building donated and opened at St Fagans. It is a cruck and timber design and is joined by wooden pegs such as seen pictured here. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759162342074-0BZSJOTLD8P2929EM6X7/20250827_WLS_Cardiff2_HES_0001_z.jpg Media Gallery - Stone Frame Snagged a quick shot of these stones framed in a decorative wooden frame near Cardiff Castle in Cardiff, Wales, UK. It was raining while we were walking so I didn’t stay long to take more. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759162386916-NU59SWE7ZN0KRU207B6Z/20250827_WLS_Cardiff2_HES_0008_z.jpg Media Gallery - Library This may be one of the prettiest castle libraries I’ve had the privilege of setting foot in. While I wish there were fewer sections roped off, I spent longer in their than some might think is necessary. It is located in the Cardiff Castle in Cardiff, Wales, UK. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759162385331-281HHIC3HQ8SZXT8R7XE/20250827_WLS_Cardiff2_HES_0011_z.jpg Media Gallery - Norman Keep Rain tried to foil the castle tour, but we braved the sights between showers and were able to take in everything. This keep was actually a shellkeep as it protected smaller buildings inside which are no longer standing. The climb up the stairs to the upper sections of the keep gave a lovely view of Cardiff. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759162420588-1ABF88MRHY7BKJIVPAD8/20250827_WLS_Cardiff2_HES_0015_z-2.jpg Media Gallery - Castle Pigeon Always on the lookout for unique and fun shots, I found this arrowslit that framed the spire of the Cardiff Castle, but I wasn’t the only one to find it. The pigeon liked this view as well, apparently. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759162422197-E8J3L34SF0QPIO37AZ93/20250827_WLS_Cardiff2_HES_0021_z.jpg Media Gallery - Waving Flag The sun finally broke through the rain clouds while the winds blew atop the walls of Cardiff Castle in Cardiff, Wales, UK. Try as I might I could not get the wind to give me a shot of the Welsh and British flags together. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759162458757-59TIY7YUICPWPN5Q2J2C/20250827_WLS_Cardiff2_HES_0025_z.jpg Media Gallery - Storm the Keep The ominous looking sky eventually cheered up but I was glad it presented me with this lovely shot before it left. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759330675945-KDOU33Y8DEG3KIROZ41Y/20250827_WLS_Cardiff2_HES_0029_z-2.jpg Media Gallery - Cardiff Bay Cardiff Bay is a man-made fresh water lake in Cardiff, Wales, UK. Pictured here are the Pierhead Building and The Giant Wheel. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759170270606-I4TWLPIC7W5QNPR8KK3Y/20250827_WLS_Cardiff2_HES_0034_z.jpg Media Gallery - Merchant Seafarers' Merchant Seaman's Memorial in Cardiff Bay, Cardiff, Wales, UK. From one side it looks like a ship's hull, from the other, a person's face. Sculptor Brian Fell created this memorial to honor the merchant seafarers from the ports of Penarth who died in times of war. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759162508493-TY7BXV6M8GHURIQZS7VC/20250827_WLS_Cardiff2_HES_0033_z.jpg Media Gallery - War Memorial Merchant Seaman's Memorial in Cardiff Bay, Cardiff, Wales, UK. From one side it looks like a ship's hull, from the other, a person's face. Sculptor Brian Fell created this memorial to honor the merchant seafarers from the ports of Penarth who died in times of war. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759167695908-GIN0UN8HLEWDOTBSJWP9/20250827_WLS_Cardiff2_HES_0035_z.jpg Media Gallery - Codebreakers The Rugby Players in Cardiff, Wales, UK was unveiled in Cardiff Bay in 2023. It honors 13 rugby players who grew up near Cardiff Bay before becoming rugby stars. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759167829885-OC5JTMBQ504DFPJ9VXQN/image-asset.jpeg Media Gallery - The British Library An entryway into the courtyard of The British Library opens up on a modern day statue of Sir Isaac Newton. This sculpture was created by Eduardo Paolozzi in 1995. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759162479951-82491M956HSFKR2ZJQL7/20250828_ENG_LONFinal_HES_0012_z.jpg Media Gallery - Transportation Two icons of London’s public transportation system. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759282221658-UAUP3JR7EEGZNFSXVCOS/20250828_ENG_LONFinal_HES_0024_z.jpg Media Gallery - Skyline Skyline along the River Thames in London, England, UK. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759161538838-4SAGTJH0AVDAHOKE3DOY/20250828_ENG_LONFinal_HES_0032_z.jpg Media Gallery - Sun Down Sun setting over the River Thames in London, England, UK. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759164014432-1WDJBAGP3EJ54SVWQ6KR/20250828_ENG_LONFinal_HES_0017_z.jpg Media Gallery - The Shard Modern skyline icon of London, England, UK - the Shard. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759162535385-5QHQYLGA541ECTRL8NV0/20250828_ENG_LONFinal_HES_0027_z.jpg Media Gallery - St. Paul's Cathedral St. Paul's Cathedral from the Millenium Bridge in London, England, UK. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759162538736-MHU2HBG3R4D3LW8OSQK2/20250828_ENG_LONFinal_HES_0029_z-2.jpg Media Gallery - St. Paul's Cathedral B&W St. Paul's Cathedral from the Millenium Bridge in London, England, UK. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759161555251-9FWF5VJ80PRLER71AW1X/20250828_ENG_LONFinal_HES_0035_z-2.jpg Media Gallery - Accordion to Me A street performer busks with his accordion in London, England, UK. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759161579214-RZW6VF6LUMH34NFBUW5T/20250828_ENG_LONFinal_HES_0037_z-2.jpg Media Gallery - Light the Way A lamp in an alleyway in London, England, UK. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759161599146-YJ2K161MO5SZP1FP65HU/20250828_ENG_LONFinal_HES_0039_z.jpg Media Gallery - St. Pancras International Night shot of the exterior of St. Pancras International in London, England, UK. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759161616836-K8K8FDBTJPS7CFPGGKUH/20250828_ENG_LONFinal_HES_0041_z.jpg Media Gallery - Tail Lights Light trails in traffic while waiting for the bus in Copthorne, England, UK. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1759161623437-7QWGXRBYVPR2CNS6VN9R/20250828_ENG_LONFinal_HES_0042_z.jpg Media Gallery - Tail Lights 2 Light trails in traffic while waiting for the bus in Copthorne, England, UK. https://hstrayermedia.org/stories daily 0.75 2023-09-26 https://hstrayermedia.org/stories/simple-salvation monthly 0.5 2021-02-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1613495180439-74UE3Y20ITOJVCLU3KPN/resize_Liz.png Stories - Simple Salvation *photo by Liz Ortiz *story shared by Justin Videgla https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1613494276176-FM3USB0BIS0ADZKN3JIZ/MeHeadshot+%282%29.png Stories - Simple Salvation https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1613494355177-ZSMKVLB4GQWFBMFOWTZ7/Justin.jpg Stories - Simple Salvation https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1613496181944-GIG7T8T8Q4D2Y59HBQX7/Liz+headshot.jpg Stories - Simple Salvation https://hstrayermedia.org/stories/from-near-death-to-eternal-life monthly 0.5 2021-02-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1612972517065-Y9R5IDFRZR2X6L57XXYU/TGO_21Jan2021_Strayer212.JPG Stories - From Near Death to Eternal Life *story submitted by Jean Lamboni https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1612184542642-KYYMU4SE4X5VTZT7YFA9/MeHeadshot+%282%29.png Stories - From Near Death to Eternal Life https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1612971746117-P6K1GJFW6C923328NTGW/Jean.jpg Stories - From Near Death to Eternal Life https://hstrayermedia.org/stories/transformed-by-grace monthly 0.5 2021-01-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611828757929-K7SRZZ726O8CZ3TXP8YX/18Jan2021_Strayer_Hannah212.jpg Stories - Transformed by Grace https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611828593029-92J4ZHPH6LNM6A482N7W/18Jan2021_Strayer_Hannah174.jpg Stories - Transformed by Grace https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611828958712-2TN3SGG82M50BTR054IH/18Jan2021_Strayer_Hannah204.jpg Stories - Transformed by Grace https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611828410446-B960JZT4EUZ4Q50PYSJC/Mme+Melanie.jpg Stories - Transformed by Grace - Pray for Mama Melanie ~Pray she will continue to grow in her faith. ~Pray that people will stop being afraid of her and will see what a wonderful woman she is. ~Pray that others will be won over by her testimony of God’s love, grace, and forgiveness. ~Pray for her uncle and other family members to clearly understand and personally embrace the truth of gospel for their own salvation. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611932945941-AAJ6ZEGM0C4MRJB1U97W/MeHeadshot+%282%29.png Stories - Transformed by Grace https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1611933294904-RYZ3HT27EDFVMTN4YWZZ/Jane_Schmitz.jpg Stories - Transformed by Grace https://hstrayermedia.org/stories/hoh-need1 monthly 0.5 2021-01-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1595952725979-2IKGLJMV5YB48CWDI97P/TGO_3December2019_Strayer_241.jpg Stories - Hospital of Hope - Floor https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1595956107066-QADY7QDC78R8KF33DWXS/TGO_3December2019_Strayer_311.jpg Stories - Hospital of Hope - Floor https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1595954823843-WVL74LLSCS5Q5I8L8LDT/resize_TGO_3December2019_Strayer_297.jpg Stories - Hospital of Hope - Floor - More Than a Floor $30,000 may seem like a lot to one person, but thankfully no one expects you to fund it alone! Your gift helps keep patients at HoH in lower risk circumstances. Add your gift to this project today. *click the link and you can then make a note for refinishing the floors at HoH. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1595956288112-EOMHSPL4UJYQS9GHPBKA/MeHeadshot+%282%29.png Stories - Hospital of Hope - Floor https://hstrayermedia.org/stories/a-purpose-for-cancer monthly 0.5 2020-07-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1595324230180-PFO3P3T2TRNLE2SC4H7V/Kendall_Family_2020134.jpg Stories - A Purpose for Cancer Dr. Tom Kendall tells a story of how cancer changed a man’s life forever. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1594730862014-WQ8AFHIGWW51MNSBK4IH/Kendall+OR2.jpg Stories - A Purpose for Cancer photo by Liz Ortiz https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1595323708598-BM4HTD6E0KX6IYC4J9G9/TGO_28July2016_Strayer_037.jpg Stories - A Purpose for Cancer - Share TRUTH & HOPE In the medical world not all patients receiving medical care survive their diagnoses or procedures, however, each one hears of the TRUTH of Jesus Christ and is given an opportunity to accept HOPE for themselves. Will you share truth and hope today by giving to HBB? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1594731679899-RILXPW959WJ19WYBA086/MeHeadshot+%282%29.png Stories - A Purpose for Cancer https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1594732042780-QKJV4AW66I7G14PCFQDL/Liz+headshot.jpg Stories - A Purpose for Cancer https://hstrayermedia.org/stories/dbf-july-update monthly 0.5 2020-07-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1594369292939-H84WSNDZVHMKF1DCN8NM/thumbnail_IMG_2158+%282%29.jpg Stories - Continue the Work photos provided by Darin & Kathy Ishler https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1594369248549-RMVM0BT23ZXOAXC2JTUC/thumbnail_IMG_2127+%281%29.jpg Stories - Continue the Work https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1594369173678-R4Q7YPW07HJMLVL7K0P7/thumbnail_IMG_2206.jpg Stories - Continue the Work https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1594370069347-AFAMR6TY2KF0V1NZM402/thumbnail_IMG_2191%2B%25282%2529.jpg Stories - Continue the Work - Continue the Work To help the team in Durban, South Africa continue to provide spiritual care and physical nourishment in the communities around them, give a gift! You can also be an immense blessing by committing to pray for future food deliveries, food stations, and follow-up visits. You can e-mail the Ishlers for more information: dkishler@abwe.cc https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1594248164020-XG2WWRKHYAHUHY75G68V/MeHeadshot+%282%29.png Stories - Continue the Work https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1594248199825-VBLFO3YXYDU2S7RJ92DE/Ishler.jpg Stories - Continue the Work https://hstrayermedia.org/stories/life-or-limb monthly 0.5 2020-06-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1592217360395-1F64ANNEETQ6WHZ7UTA8/image-asset.jpeg Stories - Life or Limb photo by Judy Bowen https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1592217736913-Z5RQ8CND1KXZPUO0HWTZ/D800-012617_12.jpg Stories - Life or Limb - Reach More Reach more patients with the life changing truth of the Good News of Jesus Christ by visiting the HBB giving page. You can also support the ministry by visiting our shirt sale - all proceeds go to HBB! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1592216904660-XQVBMAFY7UYDWRMJAKLU/image-asset.png Stories - Life or Limb https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1592216918927-219H0F8ED1YQT19B6SPI/image-asset.jpeg Stories - Life or Limb https://hstrayermedia.org/stories/dbf-update monthly 0.5 2020-06-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1591277210145-BBLTBOBTSRKBKX4JJB9T/image-asset.jpeg Stories - Loving the Community https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1591277406441-V0PI2HQEIIJP8NGMN5CZ/image-asset.jpeg Stories - Loving the Community https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1591277589181-6NR70ZN1TE9SPGRYEXGT/image-asset.jpeg Stories - Loving the Community https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1591277860185-91UEN6JTGLJ67ZFBQ8MZ/image-asset.jpeg Stories - Loving the Community https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1591278184614-SRSXN8RSPL9EOX6J3JJP/MeHeadshot+%282%29.png Stories - Loving the Community https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1591278432021-GAXHNZFDA5FIEGTOU5PS/image-asset.jpeg Stories - Loving the Community https://hstrayermedia.org/stories/durban-benevolence-fund monthly 0.5 2020-06-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1590049611824-R8T0XEQNBE9DQAM1235D/image-asset.jpeg Stories - Lockdown Plunges Townships into Greater Need photo from Darin & Kathy Ishler https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1589801718839-5FSVGWC8KMJHQYFTCCH6/DBF14.jpg Stories - Lockdown Plunges Townships into Greater Need photo from Darin & Kathy Ishler https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1589801627366-P2UH0KM2UC7DGSS9EVGP/image-asset.jpeg Stories - Lockdown Plunges Townships into Greater Need photo from Darin & Kathy Ishler https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1589385767812-8K2Y3QBB8IHV1OC04ODP/image-asset.jpeg Stories - Lockdown Plunges Townships into Greater Need - Give the Gospel. Give to this evangelistic ministry to help South African families by using the Durban Benevolence Fund. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1589799838654-15Z5C2QNNVRQ46NQCZFP/image-asset.png Stories - Lockdown Plunges Townships into Greater Need https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1589800745453-4U7YJW2Q6YWIBHRPDIDE/image-asset.jpeg Stories - Lockdown Plunges Townships into Greater Need https://hstrayermedia.org/stories/healthcare-stressors monthly 0.5 2020-06-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1586349467482-K6KATLMCRAK7L6LSJ043/FX-012717_39.jpg Stories - Healthcare Stressors photos by Judy Bowen https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1586349058742-LGWJNDPY267200EDZINA/DSC_0332.JPG Stories - Healthcare Stressors - Help HBB be the light in these dark days Give (click the account #): HBB general account #0763501 Togo South Patient Care Fund #0763511 Pray for: wisdom for hospital leadership as they make decisions regarding patient care. health and safety of the Togolese along with missionary staff. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1586348654632-38TUB0AAQT68U3W5ZF4O/MeHeadshot+%282%29.png Stories - Healthcare Stressors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1586348707874-TUSEY4A8JK5KRSBYXO4J/Judy+Bowen.jpeg Stories - Healthcare Stressors https://hstrayermedia.org/stories/evacuate monthly 0.5 2020-04-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1585999406781-2P7FYCT0BFY3IT0OJAAL/TGO_3December2019_Strayer_119.jpg Stories - Do "Real" Missionaries Evacuate? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1585998843720-I2VOV7REKJCL21U57HA3/Ward_Headshot.jpg Stories - Do "Real" Missionaries Evacuate? https://hstrayermedia.org/stories/covid19-opportunities monthly 0.5 2022-08-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1584696745465-0HXJC7CIU7PS3WW8P5OZ/map.png Stories - Finding New Gospel Opportunities in COVID-19 https://hstrayermedia.org/stories/unlocking-potential monthly 0.5 2021-04-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1581518198459-QH4UQ7EK31X7IVGWRBM7/Botcholi_2019_02.JPG Stories - The Power of Literacy photo by Liz Ortiz https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1581521084963-4ZFHY5OFUUHGQAKPQ8OJ/TGO_30October2019_Strayer_095.jpg Stories - The Power of Literacy https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1581520540435-OJDGVJX6TTJVDI1DNKEQ/TGO_23August2019_Strayer_097.jpg Stories - The Power of Literacy - Unlock Potential & Joy! Many men and women are not serving to their full capacity because of their inability to read. We are looking for someone that is interested in coordinating and managing a literacy ministry in Togo to help meet this need. All you have to do is click the button below and begin a conversation! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1581519730808-WW2IHWK05AUAGCDFX1IZ/MeHeadshot+%282%29.png Stories - The Power of Literacy https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1581519759462-8NE2HC2D4E8AGDIZ4L5P/Liz+headshot.jpg Stories - The Power of Literacy https://hstrayermedia.org/stories/2019/9/17/burnt-and-rebuilt monthly 0.5 2020-02-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1569672018096-XDUWKI4A9X9NBOIBY742/Burnt.jpg Stories - Burnt and Rebuilt photo by Kristy Moore https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1568733258261-WOIJEDXABU07CGGAAECE/WNCV4082.JPG Stories - Burnt and Rebuilt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1569677068801-LG8XX9FZGE8GKU3ERE11/TGO_24September2019_Strayer_070.jpg Stories - Burnt and Rebuilt click here to enlarge https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1580986472842-WQ5TIV7AX18H1CL2JRB2/TGO_29August2019_Strayer_028.jpg Stories - Burnt and Rebuilt - We Need a Hand! Maintenance workers are in short supply and high demand to help with the never ending needs of the campuses and grounds. If you or someone you know could help fill this need, click the button below and begin the process of letting God use your maintenance/construction skills today. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1580986779161-1ZYOJ16MWMF38I6LF9HY/MeHeadshot+%282%29.png Stories - Burnt and Rebuilt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1580986742295-V3YWIHKQHZ5LXDG4W6TA/rkmoore.jpg Stories - Burnt and Rebuilt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1580987098597-98TASYGYGG4DWC6PXZ11/Brown_Headshot.jpg Stories - Burnt and Rebuilt https://hstrayermedia.org/stories/behind-the-scenes monthly 0.5 2020-02-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1580311581178-8UIG0N83MMYWB3CTOENU/TGO_12November2019_Strayer_029.jpg Stories - Behind the Scenes https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1580311660235-QE2LAI3FDJ5T7BERDP78/HH+16.jpg Stories - Behind the Scenes photo by Judy Bowen https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1580467349878-DS28FQLS6HDXA6Z0XNWG/HH+9.jpg Stories - Behind the Scenes photo by Judy Bowen https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1580313451310-3XCHGYCTB5NAIGG0CTWB/HH+17.jpg Stories - Behind the Scenes - Will you Lend a Hand? Maintenance workers are in short supply and high demand right now to help with the never ending needs of the campuses and grounds. If you or someone you know could help fill this need, click the button below and begin the process of letting God use you in missions! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1580313606507-74QNI2NWYFRSK36SHRC8/MeHeadshot+%282%29.png Stories - Behind the Scenes https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1580391052744-R9EVVA49655FPLT0KV8V/Wolford+Family.jpg Stories - Behind the Scenes https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1580390860347-Q50X20K5BJFAQHMEU8EX/Judy+Bowen.jpeg Stories - Behind the Scenes https://hstrayermedia.org/stories/multiplication-through-medicine monthly 0.5 2020-01-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1579860434784-OIY2MJ8CT52BXWXZHJD2/SAMMW_02AUG16_Togo-14.jpg Stories - Multiplication Through Medicine https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1579859754333-ZA71MR9MREA5TDGB8HML/SAMMW_02AUG16_Togo-35.jpg Stories - Multiplication Through Medicine https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1579858570384-DT4G2O6Q5D1ZA4RKG6OF/HBB_2018_001.JPG Stories - Multiplication Through Medicine - Disciple Believers & Plant Churches HBB has served tens of thousands of patients, but has long since outpaced its 50-bed capacity. You can enhance the care patients receive and extend the reach of the Gospel to neighboring villages. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1579860814256-F8NKU3CZ06W2C7HNH9FI/MeHeadshot+%282%29.png Stories - Multiplication Through Medicine https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1579860863220-6Q47WFRESITN72KIPCQH/Liz+headshot.jpg Stories - Multiplication Through Medicine https://hstrayermedia.org/stories/2020/1/12/receiving-sight monthly 0.5 2020-01-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1578907296518-R2ZGO9MHUD4M7VX1C0WT/TGO_10September2019_Strayer_029.jpg Stories - Receiving Sight Yawa (far left) is the cuisine manager at HBB https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1578908547048-4DL1TUWWXQTDLVTJVT12/2019-11-12+09-56-36.jpg Stories - Receiving Sight Women cooking lunch in the cuisine. photo by Stanley Leary https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1578911305270-UXIXQRF3Z7ZSK80BF6IY/TG_4Aug2016_Strayer_049-3.jpg Stories - Receiving Sight - Give the gift of sight Your partnership will help the HBB Vision Project. This is an expansion and renovation project that will increase hospital and lodging facilities and allow for more patients to be treated as well as spoken to about Jesus Christ. Will you choose to bring sight to the spiritually blind? To learn more and give click here. If you are interested in serving at HBB, click here. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1578912341314-1BGZNXLEX2TDWH0B6PM3/MeHeadshot+%282%29.png Stories - Receiving Sight https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1578912303400-D9SB9MKOEYY00QIXRBXV/stanley+%282%29.jpg Stories - Receiving Sight https://hstrayermedia.org/stories/2020/1/6/the-birth-of-a-church monthly 0.5 2020-01-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1578386465071-8Z7AYTBBDMNJ1UNWK7S1/TGO_8December2019_Strayer_450.jpg Stories - The Birth of a Church https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1578386672567-DCY897DKP5AZLPN2ZZRV/TGO_8December2019_Strayer_533.jpg Stories - The Birth of a Church https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1578386155043-JPR63KNTLY6156NPAUL1/TGO_23October2019_Strayer_041.jpg Stories - The Birth of a Church - Join Us ! You can help village churches like Faro Faro’s by partnering with our Leadership Training Program which strives to raise up strong, mature church planters and pastors who are answering God’s call to go and make disciples. *Click here to read more about this program. *Click here to watch a short video about this program. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1578385973429-152LV3O9O7IM62SZAS69/Strayer_Hannah-7271.jpg Stories - The Birth of a Church https://hstrayermedia.org/stories/2019/12/30/komna monthly 0.5 2019-12-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1577713114382-WSRI927GERN6ZBJM61KI/TGO_8December2019_Strayer_007.jpg Stories - God of Compassion Komna (left) preparing to share a message with the people in the village where he grew up. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1577707703535-OMN782G7B35EAGIAAJB4/TGO_4December2019_Strayer_163.jpg Stories - God of Compassion https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1577707892671-DTPSCY2V35HXA2WPGN97/TGO_11August2019_Strayer_037.JPG Stories - God of Compassion https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1577710944430-KPT6JLTO4XVD28RKMOBT/Strayer_Hannah-7271.jpg Stories - God of Compassion https://hstrayermedia.org/stories/2019/12/9/picture-church monthly 0.5 2019-12-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1575890221215-3IW3Z7MAC40QCS3RT88F/TGO_8December2019_Strayer_559.jpg Stories - Can You Picture "Church"? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1575890337473-BEGR3PU8ICBK82UZZ1B1/TGO_4August2019_Strayer_008.JPG Stories - Can You Picture "Church"? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1575890587550-JFNM8XKFFY2RKIVPV07R/TGO_8December2019_Strayer_049.jpg Stories - Can You Picture "Church"? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1575890259257-SWE4T7Y6P6WLLOHXMVBE/TGO_8December2019_Strayer_003.jpg Stories - Can You Picture "Church"? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1575890223068-NWKWHFRCX2C9X7H5Z4X4/TGO_8December2019_Strayer_023.jpg Stories - Can You Picture "Church"? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1575890422575-SQ1M0H0VOSLWF7202CPY/TGO_8December2019_Strayer_050.jpg Stories - Can You Picture "Church"? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1575893626103-O6CTBD3MYRSCI4CVRQ0T/TGO_8December2019_Strayer_139.jpg Stories - Can You Picture "Church"? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1575893631618-K7EA7OCQYXGNK86U3CBP/TGO_8December2019_Strayer_206.jpg Stories - Can You Picture "Church"? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1575893781650-5L3LDLXAEIPAK0KIJAH2/TGO_8December2019_Strayer_343.jpg Stories - Can You Picture "Church"? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1575893812648-JFXB2OIRG3JHU66WP2RU/TGO_8December2019_Strayer_395.jpg Stories - Can You Picture "Church"? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1575893940072-6GQ8BCJPOJ6ED61ERSWJ/TGO_8December2019_Strayer_494.jpg Stories - Can You Picture "Church"? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1575893900684-UVMCVJLJTIE0ETVN2R9Z/TGO_8December2019_Strayer_549.jpg Stories - Can You Picture "Church"? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1575898353204-CHJD03TAE1CNE9QSLTDS/MeHeadshot+%282%29.png Stories - Can You Picture "Church"? https://hstrayermedia.org/stories/2019/11/6/meaningful-conversation monthly 0.5 2019-12-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1573050048550-ACPQQKNYQG8A5YCOCPKU/TGO_30October2019_Strayer_145.jpg Stories - Meaningful Conversation https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1573050414363-TQXCRYUVTIR81I2GILQQ/BEN_2October2019_Strayer_424.jpg Stories - Meaningful Conversation https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1573050825119-CT2ICDXPWWBHHPFFSGUQ/TGO_22October2019_Strayer_051.jpg Stories - Meaningful Conversation https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1573051182438-C0BZYP9D4JPH39O77OOL/TGO_22October2019_Strayer_060.jpg Stories - Meaningful Conversation - Partner in prayer! For more information on how you can partner with us in prayer, at this time, please contact the Wards at andrewandmary@abwe.cc or the Aldermans at jja@converge.org https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1575892423090-PK3ESJ3QTZ2DZDT31DA7/Ward_Headshot.jpg Stories - Meaningful Conversation https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1575892519243-K5OCMOBDWWPW3QEBQ0OO/Alderman_Headshot.jpg Stories - Meaningful Conversation https://hstrayermedia.org/stories/2019/11/17/color-w-nature monthly 0.5 2020-02-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1573998731195-62HSVVZDGXV8EL6MM1HZ/TGO_16November2019_Strayer_034.jpg Stories - Color with Nature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1574000362143-6MNX5NT12X5LJB99TLYE/TGO_16November2019_Strayer_047.jpg Stories - Color with Nature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1574000205265-BYPWBCR5V0FXSWXAHF1I/TGO_16November2019_Strayer_098.jpg Stories - Color with Nature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1574002820935-JR2L9ZY5GY17J0HDR9JV/TGO_16November2019_Strayer_004.jpg Stories - Color with Nature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1574002770007-N55ABGKEFFF2QE8LUAZW/TGO_16November2019_Strayer_014.jpg Stories - Color with Nature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1574002752865-G5BH1C1KECLHDHRHSX8K/TGO_16November2019_Strayer_029.jpg Stories - Color with Nature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1574004014710-CJ2RCSMT2SNOU4KWN5CZ/TGO_16November2019_Strayer_034.jpg Stories - Color with Nature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1574004108931-GQBXCIQH45S6U22BBN7X/TGO_16November2019_Strayer_047.jpg Stories - Color with Nature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1574004341630-A1E0BWQMFN7E3GYYYA6M/TGO_16November2019_Strayer_089.jpg Stories - Color with Nature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1574004507859-5SHKU2D7YZ1E68SAG84S/TGO_16November2019_Strayer_095.jpg Stories - Color with Nature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1574004750820-EAN60OQ3CQC2OSTQUU6Q/TGO_16November2019_Strayer_190.jpg Stories - Color with Nature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1574005014466-NWCBBZ57KQ5UEF09H8XG/TGO_16November2019_Strayer_206.jpg Stories - Color with Nature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1574005201824-QSF7J8JIMOIH395WDFJI/TGO_16November2019_Strayer_211.jpg Stories - Color with Nature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1574005451579-KX3IGOHG4L1EL3XKTS2T/TGO_16November2019_Strayer_246.jpg Stories - Color with Nature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1574005661843-RW7HWC8ACSOMGESTKKMV/TGO_16November2019_Strayer_278.jpg Stories - Color with Nature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1574006356124-XYQKT7A3SWR2UR8CCPQA/Strayer_Hannah-7271.jpg Stories - Color with Nature https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1574006650735-K0S47QJ1HOJ72ENWCI24/rkmoore.jpg Stories - Color with Nature https://hstrayermedia.org/stories/2019/11/12/meet-the-power-man monthly 0.5 2021-04-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1573592658437-QOFMEFUXEDHPVDRZR9XB/TGO_12November2019_Strayer_020.jpg Stories - Meet "The Power Man" https://hstrayermedia.org/stories/2019/10/30/teach-women-reach-africa monthly 0.5 2019-11-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1572605506487-UHQO68GEFADCX9IDQ4VS/TGO_30October2019_Strayer_082.jpg Stories - Teach Women, Reach Africa https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1572456021199-XU57KWCJOZ0VQKBORVWE/TGO_10September2019_Strayer_029.jpg Stories - Teach Women, Reach Africa https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1572456306713-HXL7WBWNUFF4LADD1DUA/TG_31July2016_Strayer_227-2.jpg Stories - Teach Women, Reach Africa https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1572601554036-FN0RKFK8JEE0Y6IGJCG1/TGO_30October2019_Strayer_046.jpg Stories - Teach Women, Reach Africa https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1572603175847-OF6H3C89M2K2A170JU1I/TGO_23August2019_Strayer_138.jpg Stories - Teach Women, Reach Africa Send the Word of God where you and Abra cannot go. To make a difference in the lives of women, give today! women’s ministry and would like to give resources or even conduct a trip you can contact Beky Poteat for more information: rpoteat@abwe.cc https://hstrayermedia.org/stories/2019/10/10/spiritual-and-medical-care monthly 0.5 2019-11-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1571235108377-4Y0CVYI3WE6FTMSEO91O/TGO_11September2019_Strayer_069.jpg Stories - Spiritual and Medical Care Reading the x-rays of a pediatric patient. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570717628957-22REKKM97OXKVJ9VUPN8/TGO_28July2016_Strayer_137.jpg Stories - Spiritual and Medical Care Madame Agathe shares the Gospel with a patient in the maternity ward. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1571233966873-S32H7A046E48R98N8414/TGO_10October2019_Strayer_011.jpg Stories - Spiritual and Medical Care 2 chaplains shared about salvation in Jesus with this patient. First, she thought about it and second she stated she was saved. The chaplain noted, “to be continued”. https://hstrayermedia.org/stories/2019/9/23/braille-paper monthly 0.5 2019-11-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570794888733-RS79L6GNUS2DKVX96162/image-asset.jpeg Stories - Educating the Blind in Togo https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570795063474-MDMJG2P5J3CX0CKY35H5/VOL_2019_24.JPG Stories - Educating the Blind in Togo https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570794562526-3R98QGZ34CK84ISFAIYJ/VOL_2019_19.JPG Stories - Educating the Blind in Togo https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1571143862115-1T5D4WWKZ5GTU88725L2/BFBD4605.JPG Stories - Educating the Blind in Togo https://hstrayermedia.org/stories/2019/10/7/pastoral-education monthly 0.5 2019-12-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570447761594-D3J2TMLC4DF9ABZQMGJE/KpalmineBI_6Mar19_03.JPG Stories - Pastoral Education https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1570447301855-VAHSD1D2CCWR80PMOPNC/KpalmineBI_6Mar19_02.JPG Stories - Pastoral Education https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1575893113339-UDEC6NEAU0I611XOR9UZ/Ward_Headshot.jpg Stories - Pastoral Education https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1575893060929-9DRB2KAVMWMR09W1WP22/Liz+headshot.jpg Stories - Pastoral Education https://hstrayermedia.org/welcome daily 1.0 2021-12-30 https://hstrayermedia.org/oops-sorry daily 0.75 2021-12-30 https://hstrayermedia.org/learn-more daily 0.75 2025-11-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1460559559387-HTSVLJV4HG4FQX2JKRWS/27ef868543abf9c4e16439c1aeb8f0bd.jpg Discover https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/209f60d6-d9c8-4bdd-88ba-f3e099499a3b/Africa-Country-Blank-Map+copy1.png Discover https://hstrayermedia.org/support-progress daily 0.75 2026-02-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1535680846476-ML1AX98DEX06TIVTW1C8/StrayerCommission_19Aug2018_Raymond-45.jpg Support Progress - Just Short of the Goal: DEADLINE FOR 50% GOAL is JUNE 26, 2017 at 5:00PM. Would you prayerfully consider if God is calling YOU to partner with me monthly in this ministry? https://hstrayermedia.org/newsletters daily 0.75 2026-04-01 https://hstrayermedia.org/partner daily 0.75 2025-07-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/1572772913588-EHVYW6MN2NIOKP7KV682/Welcome+to+the+Journey.jpg Partner With Me https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/a46baf90-a107-4c31-b704-848d8dc8919e/StrayerFront.jpg Partner With Me https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/570e5aa622482ed7fde288c3/e578349b-c9f3-40b7-ad50-d9e2e65789f3/StrayerBack.jpg Partner With Me - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://hstrayermedia.org/request daily 0.75 2024-06-28 https://hstrayermedia.org/new-page daily 0.75 2024-08-30 https://hstrayermedia.org/new-page-1 daily 0.75 2024-08-30 https://hstrayermedia.org/store daily 0.75 2023-05-15