Rachel's Reflections

God has provided a language and culture helper for me, but she has also already become a good friend and confidante.  Meet Loicy: Loicy and I have already shared our testimonies with each other, gone out to explore the area, walked to the tailor to have a capulana dress made for me, and practiced my numbers (very important to know when you ask how much something costs), and had several good culture conversations.  I have also been faced with several big decisions: Am I going to live in the AIM house? If yes, do I move in as soon as construction is complete or after the team leaders arrive in April? Do I get a guard or only guard dogs? If a guard, who should I ask? What appliances do I need to buy? Having a good foundation/base is necessary to be able to start ministering well to the Mwani people here in Pemba. Being a full-time missionary is definitely different this time, but I thank God for wonderful teammates and leaders and His grace to get me through each half-day.

Imagine holding onto childhood memories for 16 years. Always longing to return one day. Imagine the anticipation of knowing you are finally returning. Imagine the turmoil of emotions: wondering what it will be like 16 years later, desiring to see old family friends, to explore your cherished places again. Oh, the joy that filled my heart to spend several days in Nairobi with old friends! Thank you, God, for granting me this gift.  The 10 day stop in Kenya was primarily for a conference with AIM, but I had several extra days to spend with friends before continuing on to Mozambique where I am finally adjusting and settling in. I remember the giraffe park well. I used to love feeding the giraffe and walking around on the warthog trails. My older brother and I had a combined birthday party scavenger hunt on those trails years ago.  Last Sunday, my family friend, Aunt Margie, took me to visit. What a special treat for me, especially to enjoy with her. :) The conference was a