Andy's visit

Andy came back to visit this year. He was only supposed to stay three weeks but once here we were able to convince him to add on to his trip so we were blessed to have him here 5 1/2 weeks.

The boys loved having him here. They talked about his arrival for weeks. They always wanted to play with him. He was gracious and played with them a ton. I don't know that I've met another non-parent (especially a single guy) who could stand kids as long as he did. 5 1/2 weeks in a house with three little kids isn't easy, especially when they were in his room all the time. Thankful for those extraordinary people who can truly love on our kids and make them feel special. Thank you, Andy!

Having a shaving cream fight with the kids.

After an afternoon rain the boys found chalk that had been left out and was soaked. Andy showed them how you could "paint" with it and they (boys and Andy...and ok, me too) had tons of fun which included painting the wall with handprints. Dawson didn't like that Andy was taller so he had him hold him up so he could have the highest handprint.

Andy loved on the patients at the hospital as well. He will make a great pediatrician! Here he is playing in the rain with Francois.

Andy went on many village trips with us. We visited several patients whom we had sent home to die and hadn't yet passed, checked up on a TB patient who didn't come back, as well as taking one of our Type 1 diabetics back to her home village to greet family.

Walking with the kids and Kadia's father. (see post below)

Andy with Kadia's family.

Despite all the trips, Andy found time to still have fun. This is at the Malian National Park (see post below). We laughed saying if you just saw this picture you wouldn't believe this was in the middle of Mali.

Like last year, we cooked a ton while he was here. I think we all gained weight. We grilled several times (a first at the MacLean house), made blueberry scones, chocolate coconut macaroons, a pear tart, apple pie, butter pecan ice cream and many other yummy foods. Jeremie even called him the "grand cuisinier" since he was such a great cook. We enjoyed the variety of meals since I often just cook what is easiest/quickest.

We all enjoyed having Andy here and do hope that he comes back again. He is a blessing to have around. I also learn a lot when he is here since he has a wealth of knowledge on what seems like every subject. I truly appreciate his servant's heart and his willingness to do whatever we ask, whether that be at the hospital or here at the house. We are thankful for the time we got to spend together. Thanks for coming, Andy!