Today has been refreshing. We slept in, had breakfast, and read our Bibles and prayed together. We came to Sumgayit to go to the market and use the internet as well as meet up with some PC friends. We are doing well. Moms- we do have indoor plumbing, but this ain't America for sure :). We went to our Ana's niece's home last night. She has a little boy and a little girl. They do my heart good. Nazarin is seven and Mehdi is ten. I love them already. They are helping with our language learning.
I'm making dinner tonight. Ana was a little hesitant about this, but Derek assured her I'm a good cook. Ha! Side note: Ana is bound and determined that Derek and I have a baby while we're here. I told her something about nar (pomegranites) being great for fertility and she's been filling me with them every day. We've told her that the PC won't allow it, so she said we could leave the baby with her! This is one of many funny conversations.
Things I miss already: cheeseburgers, coffee, and our family and friends. I asked my LCF yesterday during class if they have cheeseburgers here. Everyone laughed. I guess that's a no. This is going to be tough. Thank you for your prayers. We miss you all!
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Miss you guys.
ReplyDeleteAlicia, I'm so glad you have some little ones in your extended host family - kids have a way of lightening any struggle. We miss you so much. I'm so glad to hear that you're praying together each day - that has made a world of difference in our lives. Keep it up! I'm so relieved to hear that you had a good weekend and can relax after a difficult week. We are earnestly praying for your health, safety, growth, and relationships there in the Zerb. Be strong together. Be strong in Christ! I love you both! Mom
ReplyDeleteDerek and Alicia, I have been praying for you since you left and will continue daily. Keep the faith. God is in control. We are called to be content in all circumstances, but I understand that is not always easy. Try to recall three to five blessings of that particular day each night before you retire. I think you will sleep well.
ReplyDeleteIt will get easier once you become accustomed to their way of living. Sounds like you have adjusted well, because of your faith and strength and patience. Good to know you are getting along well with your host family.
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad to hear that you relaxed today. Your host mom sounds wonderful and she will help you adjust in ways you can't even imagine. It will all come together...I will never forget the day my exchange son Ola came to me with the most excited expression and said "Mary, I dreamed in ENGLISH last night!" -- that was about 2 months and many difficulties after he had arrived. And he was not even experiencing the same kinds of culture changes that you two are! What you are doing is AMAZING and what a blessing that God had it in His plans for you! Hang in there!
ReplyDeletewow, thanks for another update! isn't it crazy the things that are so different and the things you miss?... i'm so impressed with your quick language learning, and grateful for your host family and now extended host family. i agree with ana--have a kid!!! but you probably need to wait until you come back:) it's wonderful you're making time to pray and read the Word together... is your host family a believing family?? take care. we're praying!! much love.
ReplyDeleteam so excited to hear from you; though there's no shortage of trials, seems as though there are many blessings as well. I'm glad you were able to rest and relax some today; everything is easier when you're rested. I'm grateful there are some children in your lives; they help lighten a situation and make things more relaxed. Do you have a mailing address and are you allowed packages and such? We are praying for you daily and am excited to hear how God is working in your lives and, through you, in the lives of others. take care of each other! We love you. ging
ReplyDeleteIt is always great to hear from you guys. I think of you often, especially when Derek is missing from my history classes. My prayers are with you!
ReplyDeleteSarah Blacksher
Hi there you two! My Mom let me know what you were doing (via updates from Ambassador) and I'm SO excited for you both! I definitely think about you often, and have enjoyed reading your posts so far!
ReplyDeleteJust wanted to let you know you're being thought of! I hope things are going well! :)