Christmas in Malawi
This December 24/25th Katy, Katie, Kelly, Meghan and I are all missing our families more than usual. We are, however, rejoicing because we get to spend Christmas with friends rather than on an African bus. You know how those are…
We are fortunate to spend a week at a hostel with hot showers, electricity and cozy bunk beds. Each day we take turns running to the Shoprite for groceries to make lunch and dinner. If you could see the kitchen you’d know that’s an adventure. Let me paint a word picture-
White stucco walls under a tin roof with a cut-out over looking the yard; a stove so old it could’ve been the first one invented with electricity; two steal sinks restaurant style that work just fine if you don’t mind getting your clothes wet; a long green cabinet with a smooth countertop and kitchen odds and ends tucked inside; and of course an array of bent metal pots and old mugs.
So far we’ve managed pizza, pancakes, grilled cheese and homemade pasta. What can I say? We’re talented.
Speaking of talents…
This weekend our team leader gave us a Christmas assignment for feedback: bring a poem, song or story to perform in honor of the holidays. It turned out to be quite fun! Katy dramatically read The Night Before Christmas and Katie performed a unique Christmas song on guitar; Meghan borrowed my guitar to give us her version of Santa Baby…No, she doesn’t play guitar 😉 and Kelly had a funny little skit that left two of the girls as the butt of a sneaky joke. I sat down 5minutes before hand and cranked out a little Christmas song. (Hey, if I’m going to procrastinate I’d better do it right.) I’ll share what I wrote as I wish you all a Merry Christmas:
This is a simple rhyme
A short song about Christmas time
I’m making a list
Of the things that I miss
And I’d be happy to start with the tree
Made of candy canes & memories…
I remember the year ended up in the fire
I’ve never seen a spruce lit up much lighter
And of course late nights playing cards
Watching the house lights from the toasty warm car
I miss drinking eggnog
Feeding leftovers to the dog
Mom would buy us new dress & new shoes
And I got to choose
Then we joined in the angel choir
When service was done, we’d open just one
Present by the fire
But this year I’ve learned that it’s true
It’s not about “what”
But it’s all about “who”
And this year Christmas means YOU
Love,
Your Sister, Daughter, Granddaughter & Friend- I miss you all <3
Leah
