I had not intended to let so much time go by between posts to my blog, but the missionary road here in Africa often has many bumps and potholes that can require maximum concentration to negotiate safely.  Two weeks ago we left for Swaziland to video several families as they participate in normal home activities, and then on to Botswana to do the same.  Botswana was definitely a wonderful experience, but Swaziland was the highlight.

Tom and Diana Blackburn, who are in our Ward in St George, are serving as missionaries in Swaziland.  In fact, they are the only LDS Missionaries in the whole country right now.   One of the more stressful things we go through in our travels is the process of border crossings.  There are many forms to fill out, questions to be answered and potential inspections of luggage and our car.  Tom had indicated that he would meet us at the border, but I didn’t anticipate what a welcome feeling we had when we arrived at the boarder gate and saw Tom waving and shouting greetings from the Swaziland side. 

While in Swaziland, we filmed three families in different settings.  We were especially touched by one of these families.  They were of very simple means living out in the country growing their own vegetables, fruit, and raising their own chickens and goats.  The access to their tiny dwelling was through a field and then over a deep ravine on a horizontal ladder that has replaced the simple bridge that had washed out recently.  They had not plumbing or electricity, and walked everywhere, but they were some of the happiest people I have ever met.  This and other similar experiences have truly changed my perspective of our short stay here on earth.  I’ve heard the saying many times that “happiness can only come from within”, but I’m only now beginning t understand what that really means.

Swaziland is a country of great contrasts.  You will not find a more beautiful place if Africa.  It reminds me very much of Oregon with magnificent green rolling hills shrouded in mist.  It is ruled by a king who has 17 wives (and selects a new wife each year).  But the majority of the population is very poor.  Women appear to be the main bread winners, while many of the men put on their "warrior" dress, including spear, and go to weed the King’s fields as volunteers.  Sadly, over 50% of the population is infected with HIV, the highest percentage in the world.  The average life span is 32 years.

At the same time, we had the privilege of joining Tom and Dianna to have dinner at one of the most beautiful restaurants  I have ever been to.  It is actually part of a resort and botanical garden called Summerfield.  I’ve wondered ever since how something so elegant can exist among such poverty.  But then I have to remind myself that this is Africa. 

The pictures below are of our dear friends and St George neighbors, Tom and Dianna Blakburn; Tom crossing the "ladder" bridge; Dian with that wonderful family we fell in love with; Our producer, Wynn Adlard playing with one of the children while he was trying to shoot video;  and this cute little fellow who came running through the field carrying his little brother to say hello.  Dian was carrying he camera and couldn' resist the shot.