I’m beat. It’s not a beat that’s anything partial to Africa—it’s just been a long day. The preemies were fun this morning and in cuddle form at its finest. We had the usual Tuesday Bible Study on the front lawn with the Mama’s leading. Then this afternoon I took three new babies who arrived yesterday to get initial medical tests (the most important being HIV and Malaria).

Isaiah was 6 weeks premature, but doing really well. He’s 3lbs and was found outside the hospital after a rainy night at one day old. He stayed at the hospital for a week and is now safe with us. I fed him today and it took an hour to get one ounce of formula in him. His tiny cheeks would get really tired after like four sucks J. Sue-Anne, our nurse, taught me some neat ways to massage his feet and face to stimulate his movements, but it was still a tedious process.

Holly is probably about two and was found last week roaming the streets. She doesn’t speak a lick of English and had a jewel necklace around her waste (a stomachlace?). Apparently it’s a tribal tradition that calculates growth and wards off evil spirits. We cut it off. She gave-off a few smiles today, but still seems quite shocked and overwhelmed. She tested positive for Malaria.

Nathanial is probably three and severely malnourished. He was found in a dumpster earlier this week. He looks extremely chubby, with a swollen belly and face. A child with only a swollen belly is battling starvation, but a child like Nathaniel has had food, but all starch (probably maize) and no water or variation (little to no protein, fat, vitamins, or minerals). Hopefully the imbalances will regulate quickly. Amani is really good about nutrition and giving the kids a range of fresh, fruits, vegetables, grains, supplemental drinks and proteins. You’ll never see canned, or processed foods here. Nathaniel tested positive for Malaria, too.