Manje Kreyol

This life is such an adventure.  You see, I am a wife and I am a mother.  I am American, but I am also Haitian.  You see I became Haitian on February 23, 2009.  I didn't know it actually at the time, but its the truth.  I don't do things the same way I would've if I were only American.  Chicken for instance.  How long does it take you to prepare drumsticks to put in the oven for supper?  For most Americans it may take 20 seconds...or maybe 5 minutes if you're doing shake and bake.  For me, it takes me about 30 minutes. I even use a mortal and pestle(although apparently I can't spell it ).  I used to try my hand at Haitian food but doing it in an American way, but it was a disaster.  You cannot speed through Haitian food.  You have to take your time and do it right.  The chicken and I wrestled for what seemed like forever to prepare it just the way I should.  Do I have to do it that way?  No of course not. I could just throw it in the oven and make him put up with it, but I have started to realize that I truly do love him and I truly do want to do my very best for him.  In our situation that may look different than yours...or it might look exactly the same. All of us as wives have our challenges and many exhibit themselves in different ways.  I believe that when I'm all done with this I won't even know how to cook like an American.  See the fortunate thing is that I never really learned to cook in the first place so this is basically my first time learning.  Its easier doing it with a fairly clean slate.  Its also nice because my mother-in-law comes for a couple months a year.  You would think I would pay attention, but most of the time I am just glad someone else is doing it.  Every time though I do try to pick up a few new things and this time it was the chicken.  I have so much to learn and I know that I have only begun to learn what it means to be Haitian, but I LOVE this adopted country of mine and I LOVE the people that God has brought in my life as a result.

My youth pastor's wife solved the "stripping" problem.  We now duck tape Juliette's diaper and then put a bathing suit over her diaper and then her PJs.  She is not able to at this time get her shirt off so she can't take the swim suit off either.  I am so thankful that at least for the moment that adventure has taken a back shelf.

Enjoy your Christmas preparations, but don't forget the very sweet and wonderful REASON FOR THIS SEASON!
Maggie