The end of January we received a group of new missionaries. Two weeks after arrival they began their daily sessions learning how to communicate in our French world. When people arrive we usually have them do the first phase of our program as a whole group, meaning that each day they advance together as a group. Now fast forward one month to an accident the lead to one new family with a child who broke their arm. A broken arm that needed surgery and was better received outside of country. Of course the answer is go quickly and get the needed surgery, but then the realities sink in of what to do now with a group that is supposed to be progressing together. Our planned path that was laid out in front of us was now blocked. My brain immediately was considering all kinds of different options. In the end we had half of them progress on and we asked one family to wait a week for the family to return. We knew it would be hard to pause their progress and take a break, but life isn’t always just about progress. Since this family was in waiting mode we invited them out to visit us for the weekend. It was a great opportunity to get to know them more and for them to see our neck of the woods. We still aren’t sure what all God was at work doing, but we do know that he is in control. We know that when he sends us a curve-ball it means he has a different plan – so we might as well make the most of the new path before us.
Our last meeting together before one family had to leave
Because of the change we welcomed this precious family out to our place for the weekend
Friday we took them out to send the day with our host family.
A day in the village with our family is always good for us 
So it was great to have an excuse to have day together eating, talking and drinking tea
Saturday was the a celebration at our church for the national day of woman
Martha came a long with me to participate in this day long event
It was such a great day together with the woman as we worshiped the Lord, heard from his word and laughed together with different games
Finally we took the evening to give them a tour of our neighborhood
It was good to get out and walk around and visit people
The boys biked around us as we walked
Sometimes a needed break from the normal pace of life is good
Time to get out and just explore the world around you
This week the family has returned to their normal routine of language sessions
They have a long journey ahead, but God is always faithful
This weekend I was reminded that sometimes changes in our intended path are good
Ahhh – I well remember the day we had a meal and tea with your host family! I know the family was blessed! Love your trust in God with unexpected events! Looks like you had a great time! May God continue to richly bless your ministry! Prayers and hugs!! Cassie
Andi I so appreciate your updates. It helps us to see your world and to know how to pray for you. The pictures really connect you to us.
Being flexible is certainly a great gift from God. Keep using it for his glory.