July Newsletter

Well this last month was filled with learning. Learning the language, learning about the culture, and learning how to drive on the OTHER side of the road. The first step was learning not to say the WRONG side of the road but the other side. Its not wrong its just different, and boy is it different. The first time I drove here in Thailand was a 14 passenger van with a manual transmission. Driving on the other side of the road, sitting on the other side of the car, and shifting with my left hand all made for a more challenging drive than I have experienced for quite some time. But driving is driving and eventually you get the hang of it. Since God called us into this ministry I have found myself in many different driving conditions than I am used to; open range in Wyoming (if you hit a cow you just bought it), freeways in the middle of L.A., snowstorms in Minnesota, etc. so it only makes sense that I would find my self sitting on the other side of the car, driving on the other side of the road.    

Because I am an expert now we decided to purchase a vehicle last week from another missionary family that is returning home. We have been enjoying our new freedom, using our car to get out and explore beyond the range of our bicycles. And being able to do it in airconditioned comfort is a nice bonus. We went to a nice park and found a cool waterfall to swim in!

This month will be our fourth month here in Thailand, the time goes by so fast. We just had our module 2 check for language learning and are both pleased with our progress. The kids are learning the Thai alphabet and are pointing out Thai characters on billboards and signs. Its fun to see them learning Thai! Speaking of going by fast, Melissa and I celebrate our ninth wedding anniversary this month as well. God has done so much in our lives over these past nine years. 

We are learning patience here as most things take longer and involve more paperwork. Even purchasing a vehicle takes multiple trips to the transportation office, immigration, and multiple days. (its still not completely finished)The OMF staff here has been very helpful in all of these small details that we have encountered.

We have heard that most Covid restrictions are being lifted in the States and we are excited for you guys. We hope that you all have an awesome summer and know that you are in our prayers! 

 


We value all of you that have partnered with us in prayer and financially. We would love to be in prayer for you and welcome your prayer requests.