Phew!

The first month went by so very fast!  Amazing how much ministry happened in such a short time.  I am not a numbers type of person but I can confidently say, MANY lives were transformed this month!!!  It was a blast to be part of it all.

This week we enjoy a break from the teams and hope to catch up on some needed rest, play, and connecting with team and neighbors. 

I thought it would be fun to share our top 10 biggest adjustments to living in the Dominican Republic as missionaries:

                                        1. SPANISH!  language is a huge prayer need.

                                        2. Missing family and friends from home- but enjoying mgm team so much!

                                        3. Food- no pretzels on island??? really!

                                        4. No flushing paper down toilet.

                                        5. Transportation- sporting scooters to get supplies is always an adventure

                                        6. Don't drink the water!  Don't  put your toothbrush in the water! Try it for a day!

                                        7. Bugs- MANY of them and they are HUGE!

                                        8. Power goes out daily- sometimes up to 4 times a day

                                        9. Church- LOUD and LONG!!!  and SPIRIT FILLED!!!!  LOVE IT!

                                       10.There's no snow here. NONE! 

 So there you have it.  Hope you enjoy the playful list and look forward to your comments! 
                                                                                                        Dios te Bendiga
                                                                                                   Brian&Jen, Jamie&Elliott

First days in the Dominican Republic

We made it to Hato Mayor on Dec 30th around 5pm.  After a sleepless night we were thrilled to finally be home!  We were greeted by some of the staff with a wonderful dinner.  Right from the beginning we felt loved!

As we settled into our house that night the sounds of the Dominican Republic seemed extra loud.  We knew we were not in PA anymore!!!  Brian and I both wondered if we did the right thing but gave anxious thoughts and fears over to Christ and went to sleep. 

Our first full day was full of unpacking, cleaning, inventory, mgm meetings, fixing broken things, and trying to understand our roles as the following day the first group would be arriving.  It was quite overwhelming.  That night, we were invited to a bonfire to celebrate New Years.  It would be a New Years we will always remember, our first, as missionaries to the Dominican Republic!

Jeremiah 1:17 "Get up and prepare for action. Go out and tell them everything I tell you." 
"For I am with you, and I will take care of you." Jeremiah 1:19

Our prayer is when confronted with a task, that we be ready to be used by God as His instrument, knowing He is holding us close and will protect us.  We are ready for action!!!  No room for fear because God's promises are TRUE!