Heidinafrica’s Blog

I have told several people recently that now that I am back at home, I find it difficult to write on the blog. It isn’t just about finding the time to sit and write (which is already an issue) but I also find it difficult to be creative when I sit to write to you, my faithful traveling companions. So, as you already know, I haven’t posted anything in a long time – and nothing much in written form since arriving in Kennewick.

I’m sure there are several reasons behind the block of creative juices. First, you all know the life here – what’s to write about?!? Second, time has become such an expensive commodity, even when I am working hard (successfully in several cases) to change my patterns. And probably most importantly, I think my muse was in Tanzania! But, here I am this morning!

When I drove past the front of my own church yesterday afternoon, something I don’t do very often as I arrive from the back, the sign board surprised me: “Welcome Back from Africa, Heidi!” I chuckled but also, of course, found it completely unnecessary and was very humbled by the sign. Our reader board sits on one of the busiest streets in the TriCities. And there was my warm welcome home for everyone to see. Dan told me to just let the people shower me with love – which is true and I should have learned about that over my 3 months in Tanzania. But it does feel different here – especially in such a very public spot.

My welcome home has been every bit as warm as my welcome to my new home in Tanzania was. In some ways, even a bit nicer since the people here know me so well and know some of the things that really touch my heart. I have received so many hugs and smiles from so many people, young and old. What a great gift! A huge sign from the high schoolers and a basket of all the things I was missing in TZ greeted me in my home the moment I walked in the door – a basket put together with such love by people who know what I like and what I have missed! The little children have been especially loving – big smiling hellos and tight hugs. Everyone loves my shorter hair, loved the blog, was thrilled I spent time in TZ and wants to hear more about the school, the country, the people, and my time there, And I haven’t even talked about Pastor Dan, who is thrilled to have his ministry companion back and finally drop some of the multitude of responsibilities he has had over these 3 months, back on the desk of the person who had left him hanging! The general theme this week, my first week back in the office, has been “Heidi’s home!” I have felt loved, cared for, and have shed some more tears! What a great way to come back.

And I am taking it slow in getting back to a routine – a routine I intend to be a new one, not a return to the old ways of doing life. I want to have a bit more breathing room – room for self, for God, for relationships that matter. I want to waste less time on TV. I want to be better to my body. I want to read more. So, I’m working on that. I’ll pick up new responsibilities at church and let some of the previous ones stay with others. Pray for me!

Thanks to all those in my own congregation who have welcomed me home so very lovingly. You are such a gift!!