Waterfall Hike

Yesterday, a group of about 20 of us went on a hike to go cliff jumping off a waterfall.  It was a beautiful day for a hike. We started out at around 12ish and before you know it the sun felt like it was cooking my neck and arms.  I cannot tell you how beautiful the view was all around me.  The mountains were so lush and green and everywhere you looked it was beautiful!  Every now and then you would see a tribal home tucked away between some hills or high on the top of a mountain.  We walked and walked and it seemed like we were never going to get there but 2 hours later we arrived at the waterfalls.  It was amazing to see this beauty so far away and yet some of the natives living out there walk this everyday to come to work at our center.  It really did give me a new appreciation for how hard their lives are carrying loads and walking everywhere without the luxury of cars.  I know words cannot express what we saw so I am going to attach some pics for you all to see!

Meri Help

Ok, so you are probably wondering what is a Meri Help?  Well recently I found out that I needed one. A meri help is a national woman who is hired to work in your home to clean, possibly cook, and other various things.  Well, I know you are probably thinking a missionary with a maid, how can that be?  Don't judge yet...I was advised that it would be good to have a lady come help in the kitchen and show me things as well as teach me language, plus you are helping them financially with a job.  Well, I said yes and yesterday she showed up. Her name is Linda and she knows a lot!  Basically she put me to shame in the kitchen area, cleaning area, and hanging clothes out on the line area!  Wow can she work and do a great job and she is Fast.  I was able to story (talk) with her for awhile because she does know pretty good English. I found out that she has been schooled up to the 8th grade which is pretty good in their culture. I was able to show her pictures of my mom and dad and sisters and then that opened up conversation for her to share about her family. As we talked I found out that she worked for a couple I knew in training in Missouri.  They used to live in PNG and she was their work meri, when we realized we knew the same couple she jumped up and gave me a hug. I was so glad for this opportunity and excited for the next time she visits.