Photo countdown #6 (by Thom)

In 2005 we arrived in Mali as new missionaries with the C&MA. For Amanda it was her first time in Africa and for me it was the first time taking on the role of bookkeeper. A lot has changed in our lives over the past 4 years, not the least of which is the additions of Miriam and Hannah to our lives. Now, we have only *6* days left in Mali before we return to the United States for furlough and eventually our move to Dakar, Senegal where we'll serve in a more regional capacity. With that in mind, here is a countdown of my eighteen favorite pictures during our time in Mali. 9 pictures of the twins and 9 other pictures. Today is Number 6:

#6 Twin Division:

There weren't many days early on that we could call our babies"chubby". Miri and Hannah didn't reach five pounds until they were over 3 months old and were only 3lbs 14oz and 3 lbs 2oz, respectively, at one month old. This picture, taken on their 6 month birthday, makes me smile because I think it's the first time I could really see baby fat on both of them. I also love this picture because of Hannah's eyes. Hannah is on the left and her wide, curious eyes have always been her hallmark.

#6 Non-twin Division:

Another picture I took along the shores of the Bani River in February 2008. I don't have a great story behind the picture except that I love the aesthetics of it. You can see a clearer picture of the birds here.