Friends.

Oh how there is so much to say, it’s difficult to even know where to begin. The past few weeks have been a roller coaster of sorts, and yet in the most spectacular way. Each day is a new challenge and adventure, where I feel like I am continually questioning and re-questioning the hows, whys, whens and whats of it all. But oh what intimacy has come in the questioning, with both my earthly and heavenly beloved. I could not be more thankful for the partner I have been given in this journey, his steadfast faith and calm spirit blesses me now more than ever. And look at him – I think he looks even better across the dinner table here!

** Funny side note. Those of you that know this darling man above know that he is typically squeaky clean; he is a bit scruffy in this picture because he decided he wouldn't shave until we figured out the bus route by our house. He shaved the very next day! **

We have begun the steep climb that is language learning. It’s quite funny really, how after a few lessons we feel like we can conquer the world, only to go try out our new words and realize we have the communicative abilities of a toddler. It’s been remarkable though how a simple hello has connected us with people. It’s kind of become a game, say hello to basically anyone and everyone we pass, and then see how shocked they are that we can and would say hello. It’s great fun. We have also been blessed in already finding a few friends/captive listeners; the worker at a favorite lunch place, a lady who sells us drinks so we can break change for the bus, the kind gentleman who sells ice cream – food unites us all! We are so thankful for these patient friends, and are eager to learn more that we can know them better.

I think the greatest surprise and struggle so far has not been culture - but within myself. As I ride the ups and downs of our new lifestyle, I’ve realized my own overwhelming inabilities coupled with a perfectionist desire to succeed can become crippling. (Relate anyone?) Thankfully, I am humbled HOURLY in recognition of where my assurance and confidence must come. It has been so tender to realize in a fresh way how incompetent we are apart from HIS strength alone – I pray that I never grow weary of this sweet lesson! Thankfully we live around the corner from a HUGE and gorgeous park – so I have been able to run (GLORY BE!) several mornings and set my heart on HIS truth. Clearly the Big Man knew this time would be needed ; ).

We are so deeply thankful to be here. To be stretched in these ways, to experience these people and places is such a gift – and to think we’re just getting started! The newsletter I have previously mentioned is still the works – we’ve had to cage my perfectionism in that regards, but I promise it will come sooner or later! And yes, I will include fun stories in the future - I think a lot of these things have been swirling around in my head for a while, and I've never been one to hide behind small talk when there are greater issues at hand. Know that your emails, comments, thoughts and pryrs are such a blessing - we need and treasure your encouragement!