Well we finally made it Arizona!   Woo Hoo!  After 3 days of driving through 5 states we made it to our driveway in McNeal, where New Tribes Missions Aviation is Headquartered, and our first assignment as missionaries.  As we drove through the desert, we noticed how green everything was and wondered why.

Apparently, it’s Monsoon season here from July to August — and rightfully so, because we’ve experienced some spectacular thunderstorms followed by magnificent sunsets!   We’ve settled quite well into our cozy single wide trailer here amongst the mesquite and cactus and are very comfortable in our new abode.  The trip was especially smooth because of the many extra hands that were available due to both of our parents, Ray and Eunice Owens and Jerry and Karen Simmons being along for the trek with us.  What a blessing!  They were especially helpful during the unpacking and moving in stage of the game, keeping our youngsters corralled and entertained– no small feat in itself.  We are starting to feel at home here in Arizona with the rattlesnakes, cactus and jack rabbits, but nothing makes us feel more welcome than the staff here who are quickly becoming family.  Oh, and did I mention the view we have out our trailer windows?  As I sit down with my coffee and Bible in the early morning hours, I’m greeted by the sun’s first rays peaking over the majestic Chiricahua Mountains of Southeast Arizona…Ahhhh what a view!  Please keep us in your prayers as we start Orientation early Monday morning, and shortly after, Flying….Yes the glorious sound of a whiling propeller and humming airplane engine.  Music to my ears.  My wings have been tucked in for long enough and are in need of a good long stretch.  I’ll be sure thinking of all of you who have helped Mel and I along the way getting us to this point.  Thanks for all the thoughts and prayers that have been sent to the Lord on our behalf.  But most of all I think I’m in awe of how the Lord has held us up through all the hurdles and snares in our path.  THANKS be to God!