This past week was the Sakeji board meeting, and even though we see relatively little of the board (as they are closeted in the admin pretty much the whole time), we greatly enjoyed the time we did get to spend with them. I was teaching all day and then holding solo practices after prep, so I was pretty wiped out by the time the staff fellowship/meeting took place that evening. We got updates on CMML’s status as a charitable organization from Mr. Grove that had as all in stitches as he brilliantly narrated his struggles with the Zambian government offices, some wonderful words of encouragement from Mr. Hanna, and Mr. Young read us the story of Gideon with some more words of encouragement for all of us “mighty men of valor.” While I know that I am doing this for the Lord, and that I am laying up treasure in heaven and adding to my starry crown and all, but it is nice to know that our labors are appreciated by our fellow laborers as well. Our board is made of good ol’ fashioned missionaries who are a joy to talk to—they come from all over the world, have a wealth of experience to share, and quite the senses of humor as well! So, a good time was had by all, lots of business was discussed, and the board went home until next term.

Beth and I came home on Thursday to find several men enthusiastically digging up our backyard. Turns out we are getting a new septic system, and Mr. Poidevin had taken the guys over to plan and discuss earlier that day, and they had decided to go ahead and get started! Our water is making some interesting noise, but we are able to use our plumbing so life continues as usual at Valley View. We have been using our fireplace recently—its about 2.5 feet square, and built with a slant at the back wall. When there is a lot of smoke (such as when the bigger wood is thinking about catching properly), this slanted back effectively and neatly funnels most of the smoke out into the room, much to our disgust. This minor inconvenience aside, it has been such a treat to enjoy the sight, smell, sound, and warmth of a fire on the chilly nights. Cement floors get quite cold when you have no heating!