And we're HERE!

We arrived in Nairobi, Kenya this morning about 5:30 am (Kenya time). We were met by our good friend and missionary Chuck O'Keefe. We had a pretty busy day getting settled into the hotel... fighting sleep so as to get onto a good sleeping schedule-- and getting used to how everything works here. Our trip here went very smoothly-- we didn't run into any issues with customs or visas or anything. It was just a really really long plane ride. :) We are staying at a newer place, just a few blocks from the slum (Kibera) where we will be working tomorrow. The air is crisp here... the temperature is around 65 F, it is beautiful. As we drove to the hotel this morning, I couldn't help but be overwhelmed at the amount of sheer poverty among some really ritzy areas. So much of what we saw and experienced was dirty and worn down-- and yet I couldn't help but see such amazing beauty in the midst of it all. We are thankful for a bed to sleep in... mosquito nets... safety... and new relationships God is growing already. On our way, I was struck by a verse in 2 Corinthians about being the fragrance of Christ.... that has been my prayer for this journey.... so often we can get caught up in our own attitudes and motives, and forget to SEE others as they are-- God's beloved... His chosen. I have been praying God will break in me anything that would stand in the way of His fragrance. I am praying we just overflow that fragrance everywhere we go.... that God's amazing sweetness and mercy will be poured out on all we come into contact with us.

We have experienced such peace and rest so far-- we know God is with us. Our kids are sending us updates daily-- and they are in such great care... and doing well. We have much to be thankful for. Thanks to all who have been praying for us so far-- please continue. We desire to be stretched and grown while we are here.... and when we get home. LOVE to all.... we hope to post some pictures tomorrow. Off to bed now!