Wow, it has been a full 2 weeks for us with many new things happening. We have joked about being in a new culture here in the states and part of it is true. Finding grocery stores with good prices and thinking through a different currency, navigating new street patterns and although it is not a different language, we have had fun chatting about the different words we each use and how we say some things. It has been a fun way to think through some of the more signification changes that will be taking place when we move to Africa.
Our orientation class had 10 couples, 7 from the US and 3 from Canada, who are heading out to 5 different countries. Some going directly to country, others heading to language training next. We were blessed to be part of such a great group, who shared their hearts openly and spoke honestly about the challenges and joys of being missionaries. The range of topics was extensive and really too many to list, but they were all very helpful in preparing us emotionally, physically and spiritually for life over seas. The girls also enjoyed their orientation which included making a Indonesian meal and taking a field trip to the nearby Basque Museum. The Basques are an ethnic group from Europe, who's homeland straddles the French-Spanish border. The girls loved learning and being able to see and taste ( great food) from the culture. Overall, their orientation was a very positive experience and they were reminded to keep Christ as their focus as they face challenges in their new country and in the sadness of good byes in the days ahead.
As we spent 2 weeks with the other missionaries, it was a joy to hear their stories, of how God had drawn them to Him and called them into missions. So many different backgrounds and life situations, yet each one walking in obedience to Christ. Learning to lean on Him for the strength needed to get through the transitions of packing and moving and making new connections. We were commissioned at the Thursday morning chapel, into service with MAF US.
The next few weeks are Nathan's standardization which he is looking forward to as he will be back turning a wrench again and not just sitting in class. I will be able to spend time with the girls and we have already gathered some supplies to work on a number of craft projects in the next few weeks.
We are currently living in the housing units at Headquarter and are fully embracing community living. Just step out the door and there are friends to play with. Complete with water fights, Freezies, dinners outside and lots of bike riding. The kids love the evenings when the parking lot is empty and they can ride in the big open space.
The front of our apartment building.
Lauren made a huge milestone and learned to ride a 2 wheeler in just 2 days, with no time spent on training wheels. What a go-getter. It helps to have little friends that can also ride a 2 wheeler, to feel the need to succeed. She has had a few bumps and falls, but nothing too serious.
Riding like a pro.
Water fight on a hot Sunday afternoon.
New little friends
Best buds.
We have also connected into a local church and the girls enjoy the Sunday school classes as well as the mid week programs for their ages. They are also eagerly looking forward to VBS and camp.
We appreciate your continued prayers as we enjoy this time together as a family but also as our minds continually drift to the things still needing to be done before our departure to Africa in August. Especially the things to be done back in Ontario during our short week there at the beginning of August along with the visits and good byes to so many of our supporters, friends and family.
Had to take a picture in front of the cool Kodiak. Not one that Nathan will be working on, but great for a photo.
Anyone looking for our current mailing address, it is
Sarah and Nathan Montgomery
c/o MAF
P.O. Box 47
Nampa, ID
83653
