Chapter 7: Grace Fellowship

We have had a busy final week in getting prepared for our departure. It has been a little crazy at times. Between trying to sell our vehicles, canceling our cell phones, auto insurance, and packing...I don't know how many times we have packed, unpacked, and re-packed our luggage. We have weighed each piece it seems like 10 times. But we have made it!!
Our church has given us a great send off. It started with our Bible Study circling around us last week Sunday morning and praying for us, as well as taking up a love offering for us. We appreciate everything they have done for us and can feel their constant prayers. Tonight, at Saturday night service, our church brought us up front, and one of our pastors shared with the congregation what we will be doing in Kenya. We were blessed again to have our Bible Study surround us one more time and lift us up in prayer.
We cannot say enough how much we appreciate the love and support from all of you: our families, our friends, and our church family.

Chapter 6: Michgan Farewell

On Wednesday July 8th, 2009 we flew up to Michigan to see Family & Friends!! We spent 5 days up there. We were very fortunate to be able to see our new niece (Alyssa Lyn) who was born the day before!! Friday afternoon we went to the golf course with Harold, Will, & Ty and putted around. Friday night we had dinner at Mike & Elizabeth's! Just found out that one of the twins is a boy, anxiously awaiting to hear about the other. On Saturday, Mom & Dave threw us a big farewell picnic at Hughes Park. It was a great opportunity to visit with family and friends who we haven't seen since Christmas. We were able to spend some time with Grandpa & Grandma Krol on Sunday for dinner. We also got in a little fishing with the family in the back yard. Our nephew Will out fished us all! Thanks to all of our family and friends for all of your support. It was difficult saying good bye but we will keep in contact and look forward to your visits!!

Chapter 5: Pre-Field Orientation

Starting on June 22nd until July 3rd, 2009 we were in Southaven, MS for Pre-Field Orientation. Right around 200 other missionaries / teachers were there and will be going to 20 other NICS schools around the world.
It was a very busy two weeks!! We started out on Monday registering and meeting our host family (Ms. Judy & Mike). The remainder of the 2 weeks was filled with classes. We learned an awful lot. Topics that were discussed included the NICS story, Meyers-Briggs assessment, Third Culture Kids, Transition Experience, and more!!
We were able to meet 13 other missionaries / teachers heading to West Nairobi School. We are excited to be working with a great group. We spent a lot of time together at meals talking and also had a team building experience at the bowling alley (careful Vance...the lane is slippery).
We really enjoyed the two weeks, it was overwhelming at times (lots of information) but we definitely feel better prepared for heading off to the field!!