Our Decision

We took our trip to out of the city this past Sunday.  As we left, we prayed that on this trip we would be able to make a decision about moving.  We feel like God answered that prayer.  Joel and I left this trip at peace with moving forward with the move.  We believe that if this is not where we should be then the doors will be closed, but as long as doors keep opening we plan to walk through them.  Let me show you and tell you a little bit about our next home.

Space and Calm – The town is a little more rural and therefore there is a lot more space.  Most of the streets are dirt roads, but besides the main road the streets are pretty calm and there is significantly more room for the boys to be boys.  It is the type of place where all your neighbors know who you are and probably greet you.  The living spaces are more spacious and sometimes even have an enclosed sand “yard”.

We already have some Friends there – While we were there we dined with Roger and Fredine (missionaries from Haiti)  and we know that they would be avaliable to help with anything that our host family will isn’t available to do.  They have already taken the time to answer many questions for us and will be a great resource while we are there.

The church – We went on Sunday so that we could go to church.  It is hard to get a feel for a church with just one Sunday, but they seemed friendly and they played drums.

Availability of Resources – The town is an hour from Dakar (depending on traffic), so most of what we have in Dakar will be available there.  I am sure there will be a few things that we will have to do without, but it will be another good step in preparation for village life.  They have water and electricity cuts, but supposedly they are rare.  We have had very few water cuts in our current apartment, so that will be a new adventure.

Next steps and timeline – We could move anytime after the beginning of March, but it all depends on how long it takes to get the details together and for a host family to be identified.  It is still overwhelming thinking about packing and moving again, but I trust God will give me the strength when the time comes.  We are sad to lose Ethan’s school because his progress in French has been amazing, but we know God will provide other means for him to learn French.  I am so thankful for the peace we have, even with all the unknowns (if you know my personality you know how amazing that is).  I am reminded again that God is good.

Just for fun – On our drive I kept track of everything I was offered to buy at my car window.  Food, water, music CDs, dvds, newspaper, razors, matches, all sorts of  toys, scooter, bike, dishes, clothes, shoes, knives, cell phone case, phone cards, wallet, serving platter, books,  clothes pins,   candy and this only begins the list of things that they sell.  It is amazing!

Pictures from our Drive