Almost nine years ago, I found myself standing in the Blantyre, Malawi, airport with my husband and young daughter, waiting for our luggage. It was hot, and sweat poured from…
I have lived as an ex-pat (foreigner) for most of my life. This has given me a unique perspective. While my passport says that I'm an American, my experience says…
I know that not everyone will like or appreciate me in this world. That's normal, right? In my mind, I know this, but my heart doesn't like it. Not one…
I've not had a bad headache in years. But I had one last night. I had forgotten how much that kind of headache can impact your life the next day.…
Stepping off the plane for the first time in Burundi, I wondered what we had gotten ourselves into. I stood with my husband and two very young children on the…
The past few weeks have been harsh. I'm tempted to think, "If this is what the beginning of the year looks like, I'm not looking forward to how the rest…
What are the qualities you value in a best friend? Who is your best friend? Do you have a best friend? My husband, Jamie, is my best friend. In just…
Do you "push the envelope?" Have you waited a bit longer to service your car than you should have or asked for an extension on a deadline? Or let dust…
If you’ve been around here for any time on the Shift, you know that I’ve been living and working on the continent of Africa for almost all of my adult…
The water is off today. I thought I had prepared for the usual water cut by setting the timer on my washer. Sad fact: I had this washer for over…
