The Neighborhood

These sweet little girls use our entry driveway to play hop scotch, jump rope and assorted other games. We love seeing their smiling faces as we return from the office each evening.

This crew is lined up on the wall outside of our compound each evening waiting for the free candy that we give them. We call them "little Democrats" because of their dependence on the candy. They have come to view it as an entitlement, but we love them anyway, even though they sometimes get rowdy, aggressive and obnoxious much the same as the Democrats in the States.

This is a view of our apartment compound from across the valley. Note the high-rise dwelling just beneath our security fence. The fence is no longer as secure as it once was. The little dwellings below use rocks, bricks and old tires to hold down the roofing materials. They are cheaper and more abundant than nails. That is quite the little community.

Guest Quarters

Those who are brave enough and rich enough to venture to this strange and exotic land will be treated to these immaculate guest quarters as the guests of Elder and Sister Bird

Our Digs

Diana wanted us to send pictures of our missionary apartment, so here they are.
First our dining area. This is where Elder Bird likes to hang out when we are home.
The next favorite place is the living room on the couch reading a good book. The T.V. is there mainly for looks and comfort but is rarely used as we don't understand Malagasy. The fireplace is fake and would not be used anyway.
This is the cookie maker in her favorite room really enjoying being creative. The cookie monster is looming just around the corner.
This is our large and spacious shower. Elder Bird has to hold in his stomach just to turn around in it. Getting in and out is also a major trick with that new knee.

Missionary Triplex

This our appartment complex. We live on the ground floor, the AP Elders on the second floor, and by now, our real good friends, the Peterson's on the top floor. The tan Toyota Hilux is our wheels. We are about a 10 minute walk to the mission office. We live in a neighborhood with both rich and very poor nearby.