Priceless

My waiting involves a move. One year ago today I handed over the keys to my home in Birmingham, Alabama to its new owner. Most of my worldly possessions were placed in storage. Since then I've been living with various friends and family members and spent a total of four months out of the country.

It has been a year of newness, and I find myself excited as I approach the move in date for what will become home base for a season. My family and I have been working on an old cottage in the woods that belongs to my grandparents. My goal is to move in by Christmas.

Today the well drillers are here. This cottage hasn't had water in over 20 years. Water is precious. I know that, but I know it even more this week as I miss turning on the faucet to wash my hands or wash out the paint brushes or get a glass of water.

Did you know that it costs around $6,000 to drill a well in Malawi? It seems like a lot until we realize that it will provide clean water for a village of 150 people. Safe drinking water is priceless. My well isn't going to cost that much (less than half), but it will only service me most days.

My friend April Hurst has a friend who is studying to be a civil engineer. He hopes to dig wells in Africa one day. Maybe he can develop a way to decrease the costs of wells for the developing world. Maybe one day we can all go help him dig one or two or 22.

This new year is going to be a great one. From inside these cottage walls I hope to:
- make significant progress on my dissertation
- co-write at least one book
- host at least three parties
- have at least three out of town visitors
- pack for at least four different international journeys
- laugh
- read
- paint
- be

Come visit.
S