A Final Language Committee Meeting

Before I leave Musoma in September I'm meant to complete the orthographies of three languages. The Zinza orthography was approved in January. The application for approved status of the Kwaya orthography has been submitted. Finally, the Jita orthography is nearing the end!

I met with the Jita language committee last week. We need their approval of the orthography in order to finalize it. So, we taught them how to read Jita and some of the rules that we've developed. In response to one of the rules the committee members said 'AMEN'! Apparently they were quite excited about the accuracy of that rule and their need for it!

How could they deny this orthography following an "AMEN"? They couldn't!

So, I am entering the final stage of checking that all the documentation is present and written up accurately in order to submit the application for approved status for the Jita orthography!

Vitenge Vinapendeza

One of the many things that I love about living in Tanzania are vitenge, especially the Nigerian ones. Vitenge are panels of patterned cloth.

I've become so accustomed to having colorful and diverse patterns of clothes, which are often custom made (because that is the cheaper option often times!) So, since I'm returning to the States, I decided it was necessary to go on a shopping trip for vitenge. I'll get my final skirts, trousers and dress made so that I can be colorfully clad for years to come.

I'm kind of sad that the cheap clothing option in the States isn't handmade and uniquely patterned clothes.

Sometimes living near the Indian Ocean is rough

Every year the members of UTB (Uganda-Tanzania Branch) of SIL gather together for a few days of retreat. This includes worshiping together, hearing a series of messages from a speaker and fellowshipping together.

The only rough part about it is that we are located on the Indian Ocean for few days.

During my morning devotion and prayer I was met with this sight:

During bits of free time (if I had any left after playing soccer and frisbee) my relaxation options included having a coffee by the pool.

Or reading with friends on the beach.

Ok, maybe it wasn't really that rough...

A Doorway to Narnia?

Last year we finally got a wall put up around the house where I live. A door was put into the back wall.

I was confused at first because there is nothing behind my house. There is no road or pathway. There is just undergrowth and a few trees. Why put a door there?

But then I realized that this door could lead to Narnia (like in The Silver Chair).

Why not?

Anytime I venture beyond this door I could meet Aslan! Alas, so far I've only met Zevi, my own dog.

But maybe tomorrow will be different.