After 20 days in transit we are finally at our destination! A roller coaster of emotions describes best what we are feeling now that we are here. Sometimes excited and confident, other times sad and apprehensive. Overwhelmed with all that is new, but relieved that we are done traveling. There are moments that everything seems quite normal, and others when we feel like having a good cry. So much has transpired in the past few weeks that it is hard to know which of these feelings is appropriate. All of them, is probably the right answer.
We know that as time passes and we grow more familiar with our surroundings our emotions will settle and we’ll feel less sensitive, but for now we are having those cries, when we have to, and enjoying things like SKYPE with our family members, emails from home and just treasuring each other.
The next few days will be filled with unpacking our bags, and finding a routine. We’ll also be doing some basic orientation in town but nothing too involved just yet. We have some terrific co-workers here at the NTM center. We were warmly greeted by familes that already new our names and had been anticipating our arrival. A few of the men met us at the airport and were a great help getting our luggage loaded and delivered to our new home. Next door to us is a family with six children all in and around our kids ages. So Judah, Gianna, Tiernan and Silas have lots of friends to play with already.
The adjustment that may be the hardest to make is the adjustment to the heat. It is very hot and humid here and we are all (veteran missionaries and rookies alike) sweating continually. This is life in the Sepik we’re told, so we are so thankful for the ceiling fans in every room and ice-water that we are drinking by the gallon. Our living arrangements are very comfortable. We have a three bedroom apartment with all the conveniences that we need. Our children are adjusting very well; we are so thankful for that.
Thank you all so much for all that you do to allow us to be here. Your sacrifice financially for us, your prayers and your love for us are so appreciated. Thank you for remembering us before the Lord. As you pray this week will you pray for stout hearts for us and a clear view of our loving Savior. Thank you so much for praying us through this incredible journey.
Benjamin and Missy