Monday, August 4, 2008

Let me UP-date ya....

Well, it was a long 29 hours of traveling, but we made it...even all of our luggage (my guitar included!). That was a huge deal, because I really wanted to take my guitar along, and I knew I would miss jamming on it for 9 months. Plus, who wouldn't want the opportunity to learn some awesome tunes in swahili at some point? So, that was awesome that I was able to take it on each plane as a carry on and stow it in a closet.

Once we arrived, we got visas and headed back to the SIM compound, the housing area for all SIM missionaries, in Nairobi. It's really nice; Adam and I are sharing an apartment basically, which is brand new and never been used! We all got back and wrote quick e-mails to our parents...and passed out from exhaustion. Although, funny story. Because I was so tired last night, I didn't think and used water from the sink to brush my teeth...so, I was a little worried haha. But, I was assured that everything would be fine.

Today, I got up around 8 and showered, then headed to orientation at 10 with Dorothy. It was really informative, and we each got cell phones! Before leaving, I wasn't sure how contacting by phone was going to work out, but that problem is officially solved. Also, we learned a little more about Tumaini today, and it was really encouraging and exciting to hear that there will be 70 similing and energetic kids to greet us when we arrive! It's also at a higher elevation than Nairobi which means no mosquito threats and chilly weather. We head out for Tumaini wednesday morning. In more news, experienced my first Kenyan meal of beef stew and rice...and, I must say..legit!

Lastly, we all went to see The Dark Knight with a couple of the other missionaries tonight. Less than $7 US for a movie ticket, hot dog, pop corn, and a drink. Unreal! Anyway, sorry for the length of this post, but I didn't get to post last night...had to catch all of the interested readers up.

p.s. Here is a picture of my room at the compound and that tasty beef stew with rice..


8 comments:

David Lawson said...

Thats my dog....I am glad everything is going great!! I am praying for my brosiff

Anna E. said...

I am so proud of you. I will be a loyal blog reader, so keep the posts coming! By the way... the shaved head is a great look on you! All the best with your mission and with the children.

Anonymous said...

I miss you!!! And your hair!!! :D

What kind of missionary slaves away at a MOVIE THEATER their first couple of days out on the field??? Am I going to have to talk to someone about you??? :D

And the blog thing? I don't think I ever got that many words out of you in PERSON at once! This'll be a whole new side of Austin! I'm excited!!

We're totally praying for you... and I can't WAIT to see what God does through y'all.

-Mel

Shane Deike said...

Brings me back. Nice grub pic.

ErinKate said...

Oh.....i Ken-Dig-It!!! I'm so proud of you!!

-your cuz

CIndy N said...

Proud of you man! Praying hard for you. You are definietly not at the Holiday Inn though huh?

Jimmer said...

Kenya dig it? Guyana try!

Love the crew cut!

We are so pleased that you are willing to trust in our Lord and follow his leadings. There many here in York, PA that are praying for you, Adam, and Katie.

Blessings,
- Uncle Jim

Thanks 'DC', for use of 'Guyana try'

rikki7014 said...

hey austin! i must say i am new to blogging...makes me feel so old haha but i think im getting the hang of it. just wanted to say that i am so proud of you and i cant wait to hear more about your work!! keep us posted:)