Theo

Thanks to the Whole Foods blog, I now have new insight into one of my favorite chocolate brands, Theo. Shout out to Seattle residents to make a vicarious visit to their factory for me!

A promise delayed

C. S. Lewis asserts in A Grief Observed that physical pain is less tolerable than emotional pain because it brooks no distractions. Even in our worst sadness and anguish, there is the possibility of being distracted by something good, but when one's body is in torment, it allows no such escape. I was struck by this argument during my second reading of the book and at the time thought he put the case rather strongly. Surely people who suffer great agonies of soul and spirit, such those who are imprisoned or heartbroken or bereft, are in the same league as those who suffer physically? Yet, I now think of C. S. Lewis when my body breaks down because physical pain has proven his point. It is terribly hard to be distracted when your body is demanding attention. (Yes, I know that C.S. Lewis tends to be right. Silly me.)

Thankfully, the reason I am thinking of this topic tonight is merely because I am still exhausted from a head cold. Unfortunately, said cold began immediately prior to the Jordan trip and lingered through most of the outreach. The lack of energy has certainly diminished my blogging output. Still, I did try to keep my promise of uploading pictures. Our feeble internet connection intervened. Next week! In the meantime, here's a teaser: 

Reading the Joni book

Siblings reading the Joni book while they wait for pediatric wheelchairs

Sudanese refugee in Jordan for treatment

Happy to be fitted!

Mother and son

Cyber Monday

Click here for a partial list of socially conscious companies aiming to get your attention with discounts. I bought a pomegranate lip smoothie (i.e. chapstick) and a spa set from Thistle Farms via Delicate Fortress because the shipping was cheaper. Have fun shopping!

Returned

Here are some pictures for you, fresh off the plane from the Middle East. I will post pictures of the outreach on a hosting site this weekend. Remember, this was a working trip, so scenic shots are limited.

Jordan Valley

Yours truly gaining major cute points by holding the youngest visitor to the distribution site.

I <3 carbs.

The pop of color on this abandoned building intrigued me, and I inadvertently discovered a makeshift dumpster. (Amman generally has a moderate level of trash on the streets.)

The obligatory cityscape shot--notice my many layers are the brightest spots on the landscape. Neutrals generally reign unchallenged in Jordan.

Several buildings were in progress throughout the city.

Modernization (and color!)

Acholi Bead Necklaces

Let me tell you: accessories and lotion and gelato are indulgences with which I would be loathe to part. Yet, when I consider every dollar spent as a vote towards a product, there are many stores I am reluctant to support because of their unethical practices. This is why I am a growing advocate of fair trade and recently said yes to the opportunity to create a personal online store with Light Gives Heat. They are one of many organizations employing women who make the Acholi bead necklaces and provide a good blend of quality + price. 

Buying from Light Gives Heat is a win/win situation. Your purchases provide desperately needed income to women who have survived a brutal war and continue to battle poverty and injustice. That would be enough in itself, but in return you get to sport a (literally) unique accessory hailing from another continent. Just to note, I do not receive any profits from the online store; I am now a virtual volunteer! If you would like to buy a piece of jewelry for yourself or as a present, simply click here. Thanks for supporting!

Spring Pearl Necklace