Power Outages

A few weeks ago I posted a “facebook” status that indicated power was out again and that I was using the computer by candlelight, but waiting to wash dishes until power came on. One of my sisters commented the following day with, “can’t you wash dishes by candlelight?”

I thought I would share with friends and family concerning power outages. At Kudjip station, our water is rain collected in a cistern at the side of the house. Because of where the cistern in located, when the power goes off so does the inside water (the pump is electric). Fortunately, we are staying in a house that has an outdoor gravity faucet, and are able to collect water in bowls and pots to bring inside.

When the power is off, the water flow is slow, but better than nothing! Once the water is brought indoors, if it is for washing dishes or drinking, it must be heated or filtered.

We have a gas stove so I am still able to cook when the power it out. (Thank you, Lord!) Heating the water takes some time; I only have one large pot. It’s not too bad for washing the dishes, but it takes a lot of pots to have an inch of water for the bathtub!

I frequently use a crockpot for cooking, if you’ve been away from the house all day, you sometimes come back to an uncooked meal. You then have to transfer the food to a pot for the stove or oven and complete the cooking process. So far, we’ve not gotten sick from anything!

We try to keep your computer and e-readers fully charged at all times

and your dishes rinsed and washed as quickly as possible! You never know when the power outage imp will strike! You also keep flashlights and headlamps handy at night.

There is currently a hydro project that is almost complete. The dedication in April 30^th and it should be up and running by July. At that time, power outages should become a thing of the past.

Living in the highlands of Papua New Guinea is lovely, but not without some challenges. Scot and I are thankful for the opportunity of having these varied and interesting experiences and being able to serve the Lord here.

Tyronza