An update from orientation

Hard to believe we just completed our 4th week of orientation. We have really grown to love the peace and tranquility our Father offers to us here. One of the first things you notice when you drive up the road is the barn, silo, the lake and the gazebo. It is one of our favorite spots to just get out and walk...

Noah on a different day ... fishin'! So far, we haven't caught anything but have sure had fun trying (this one's for you, Grandpa)!!

Emma lost her first top front tooth the 2nd week we were there...

She also got to take BJ bear home just after that. Every 2-3 days, BJ gets to go home with one of the boys and girls from her class. BJ had dinner with us one night, went on a family walk, and also had some good snuggle time at the end of a long, hard day. Emma then got to "journal" about their time together. She is already counting down the days until her next sleepover with BJ!!

We had "shot day" last Tuesday and will actually have 2 more before we get out of here. Between all of us, we're going to have 45-50 total, plus we'll be starting malaria meds about a week before we leave. The kids were a little freaked out about all the shots, but they were very brave and did well. Of course, afterwards, there was chocolate, popsicles, face painting and balloon art waiting for them. You can think of us Tuesday as we go through another round.

We've also been able to get off campus some and spend some good family time together. We got rid of both vehicles before we left Fort Worth, so we've learned some lessons in humilty as we've had to borrow a vehicle to do the little things like Wal-Mart, Burger King, etc. Our living is so communal here, though, that those who did drive have joyfully made their cars available for those who didn't.

We decided to use one of our Saturdays to go bowling, which was so much fun. You can also think of us soon as we'll spend another day off campus in Washington, D.C. for a full day of learning.

Our temporary home is feeling more and more like home each day. We are thankful to have brought a few things with us to make it feel that much more like home. One of those things is this International Willow Tree girl that was given to us by our friends, Kent and Karol. We brought it all the way from Arkansas, and many times, it has reminded us of our Father's love and how He is working through those who are speaking our names to Him.

We have gotten to take part in 3 "special meals" during the lunch hour. We've had food from Morroco, Romania, and Indonesia. The kids are also included, and if they try it, they get a sticker. Elizabeth and Noah aren't so much into the stickers, but Emma treasures hers. We are very proud of them for showing such a willingness to try new things as we all prepare to go.

We have really come to love "quad life." In some way, this picture captures who we are ... normal, ordinary people who have said yes. BTW, Honeycombs have become our friend!!

One of the neatest experiences happens every Sunday night. We actually have house worship every Sunday morning (as well as Tues-Fri), but on Sunday nights, we come together as a community of 350+ and experience worship in a different culture setting each week. Our first week took place in a Hispanic setting, last week was European, and tonight will be an African worship service. To make it a little more real tonight, the ladies/girls will be wearing head coverings. Joanna and Elizabeth will be wearing one, and when Emma found out, she was quick to find her one as well. We are looking foward to helping lead in worship next week!!

The splendor of the King, clothed in majesty ... let all the earth rejoice.

Age to age He stands, time is in His hands ... beginning and the end.

Thank you, Father, for Your love!