Yesterday was the toughest day of the trip, and validated this as a true trip of service to our friends. Sleep was tough the night before, and a misunderstanding that resulting in mutually hurt feelings for our team of two provided opportunity for tears and to practice what we teach about holding each others hearts of honest feelings and desires.
We were sad to say goodbye our hosts and so many new friends in Pune, and somewhat anxious about visiting the more "traditional" city of Indore. So, goodbyes were sad, but all hope to meet again. We headed to airport (where we couldn't take photos because they share airstrip with military; an F-15 was landing as we walked across the tarmac to get aboard the prop plane), about 1pm. A relaxed time of waiting with some chicken and rice in air conditioned airport was comfortable, as well as the flight (very smooth for about 2 hours). I relaxed with headphones to hear a book and some encouraging music. Jill wrote a love note, and we renewed our energies for upcoming experiences.
The first hotel raised our eyebrows. AC on one high level w/ no knobs, no wireless, mosquitos, sheets we decided to cover w/ one of our own, loud honking from the street, and the coup de gras, "Jeffffff.....!!!" A lizard in the bathroom.
Over dinner our host offered to change to another hotel, which her originally attempted to book. Long story why not, but by midnight we'd arranged it for today. So sleep in the first hotel ensued and we survived. They say they that they book westerners in best hotels possible to keep us healthy and rested for the hard work.
the scheudle is busy with visit to orphanage of children whose parents were killed in persecution in 2008. we go there this afternoon. Multiple visits with couples interested in learning to train relationship skills, a visit to a leprosy home, etc.
Amazing how people are being served from here.
In the middle of a Hindi translation session of some things we've written to share w/ our friends.
We are both feeling well, and completely regrouped, strong and happy for the remainder of the journey.
Love, US
Great adventure the two of you are on. Enjoying reading the posts and taking it in. You guys are doing a great work for others. Thanks for sharing with us! Randy & Laurie
ReplyDeleteThanks for the update. The challenges in the middle sometimes knock us more flat than the ones at the beginning, but I'm thankful that Jesus was able to knit you together again.
ReplyDeleteTalked to Carly on Sunday evening just checking in with her and Laura. They are well.
Talked to your mom yesterday. All is well.
Dear Randy and Laurie, and Sharon. Thank you. We appreciate your support and prayers. Means ALOT when we are far away and unfamiliar.
ReplyDeletelove, us