siku kumi

Ten days. That's what "siku kumi" means in Swahili (...I think). Ten days--that's how many days we have left until our departure to Tanzania.

Wow. Wasn't it just last week that we were saying we were still a year away from leaving? And didn't we just yesterday comment that we were still six months behind our mission formation classmates who departed to Africa last summer?

And now, all of a sudden, the time is here. We have had--and are still having--a wonderful time with our family in south Louisiana these last few weeks. Everyone seems to be acutely aware of how rare and precious it is to have this extended time of visiting and sharing space. I know that we will look back fondly on these days, where we simply enjoyed the routine of spending our days together, with a mindfulness of what a gift this time has been. But I also know that the goodbyes with my parents and sisters will be hard. We will plan regular Skype dates and emails, and they will visit us for sure, but it will not be easy, period. I am praying for the grace to walk through those goodbyes with gratitude rather than a lot of sadness.

Apart from that, however, there is much excitement about what lies ahead. This is a step that my husband and I have considered for close to two decades now. It's a move we've prayed about so very many times. Our timing has been delayed and our patience has been grown, but now it's almost time to step out onto this journey with our four sweet kiddos and see what God has in store for us. I'm certain that He won't disappoint.

And for those who might want details and want to perhaps (please!) keep our travels in your prayers, our travel will begin next Thursday, January 24th. We will arrive in Dar Es Salaam, the capital city of Tanzania, on the morning of January 26th. After spending a few days there (and hopefully recovering from our jet lag), we will fly on into Arusha, where we will attend language school for three weeks. We've heard great things about the program, as there are specific classes and activities for both adults and children. After that course is complete in late February, we will finally head onto our destination and home for the next three years, Ndanda, Tanzania.

Thanks to all who are keeping us in your thoughts and prayers. "Asante sana" (thank you very much), truly!