Hey guys, I just wanted to give you an update since I haven’t really given a good one since I left for Africa. Anyways, two weeks ago from today, we were at the airport saying goodbye to friends and getting ready to embark on our big God-led journey. In many ways, it has felt like two months have already passed since we left home, but in other ways it has felt like we started this journey just yesterday. A lot has happened since we boarded the plane in Atlanta and left the United States. Traveling took close to 42 hours, instead of 37, but God kept us safe. We finally made it to Kitwe, Zambia. The adjustment, on the other hand, has been harder for me than I expected. I think it’s because in the last few days before leaving I was so excited to just get to Africa. I was able to hang out with friends so much that when I got here (and none of my friends or anyone familiar was here) I was sad. Being away from friends and family has definitely been way harder than I ever imagined it would be. But during this hard time of adjusting, God has definitely been teaching me and reminding me that I am only here in Zambia for 10 months out of my whole life. That’s not a long time. So while I’m here, I need to use this opportunity and gift that God has given me, and I need to serve Him and fulfill His great commission!!!! It may sound like I have that down, but I definitely do not. I still go through phases of wishing that I was at home and wondering why did God pick me to travel across the world and live in a 3rd world country for 10 months? Why do I have to live this different life when all my friends and family get to live a fun life at home and try new things? But, it is God’s plan for me right now in my stage of life, and I need to embrace it!
The people here in Africa are so nice, humble, and sincere. I have really enjoyed getting to know them. God has placed us in a sweet area where we are living and there are children that match up in ages with each of us. I have enjoyed getting to know one of our neighbors named Annie who is 16. She is really fun to play with and talk to.
Teaching P.E. has been a lot of fun. The kids are sooooo eager to learn new games and are full of energy! They are a blast to teach. I cannot wait until Coach Rick from FL comes with all the equipment to “launch” the P.E. program. The kids are going to LOVE it!
We have also gotten a chance to play soccer with some of the Bible college students and some kids in the area. It is so fun to play soccer with them. Playing soccer here in Africa is so different than at home. The fields are really short and so the kids are amazing with their fancy footwork. I can’t keep up with them! Haha…
Oh, one more thing…Virginia has buzzed both David and Berkley’s hair! They actually do not look as bad as I had envisioned them looking! I miss and love all you guys and look forward to the day when we get to be reunited! I love ya’ll!
~Lydia