Warm Welcomes

We arrived safely in Jakarta, after 36 hours of flying/layovers with an almost two year old who HATES seat belts, and much to our surprise saw a friendly, familiar face upon leaving customs.  I beamed when Wally appeared at the end of the long hallway and welcomed us to Indonesia.  His is a face that offers kindness and a sense of warmth and familiarity.  And with his knowledge of Indonesia and the process we were (and still are) going through to transition here, he was a sight for sore eyes.

From the moment we got off the plane, during which 5 Egyptian Imams helped with our bags/Cade - another story for another day, we have been welcomed with open arms and incredible hospitality.  The MAF crew currently in Salatiga for language school has been more than willing to help in many ways.  Between meals, tours of the town, and a precious little Christmas tree set up in our home, we have truly been blessed by each family and are excited about being a part of the warm welcomes for future arrivals!  

Since we arrived, it's been a whirlwind of excitement.  Meeting our landlord and community leader, buying fruit from the pasar (open fruit and veggie market), hiring two pembantus (house and child care workers), enjoying meals with friends new and old, and celebrating Christmas have been just the tip of the iceberg of activities and fun.  And while we missed celebrating with family, we enjoyed this special Christmas God gave us - our first in Indonesia!

In the days ahead we will continue to make this house our home, venture to "town" without tour guides - eek!, and begin language school.  We are excited to see all the Lord has for us in 2013 as we learn about this place He has brought us!