settling in

Today is day 5 in Asia.  I think I am still experiencing culture shock, but I am loving it so far!  Most people say that's because we're still in the honeymoon phase...I'll just try to stay positive though. I wanted to share some more pictures so y'all can envision what my everyday life looks like.

First off- s c o o t e r s ! Our city is fairly spread out so walking to class everyday is not exactly possible.  I could choose between paying for a 3-wheeler taxi everyday (which are hilarious by the way) or buying a scooter.  Our whole group went for the scooters.  I, of course, chose the most obnoxious color possible. I'm still deciding on a name for him so if you come up with anything good, let me know.  I would never get a scooter like this in the states but...when in Asia.

 Next up, f o o d.  It's such an adjustment.  So far, I have loved it! I'm not a big fan of spicy food but my taste buds are dealing with it.  Here's a picture of me and two of the girls on my team- Chelsey (left) and Anna (middle) at our first Asian meal.

At most restaurants we order multiple dishes and they're laid out on a lazy susan like this...

And yes, the rice looks like it's in a pirate's bucket. Yesterday we ate at the first Asian restaurant where you could order your own dish. For the first time we weren't swapping germs! And they even gave us spoons to eat with. (I am struggling with chop sticks)

 From my last post you saw the view from our balcony.  The apartment we live in is tall sky rise apartment. This week, I heard some loud crashes and realized the tiles started falling off the outside of the building. I really can't complain though, I love our apartment inside!

Before coming to Asia, we had a week long training.  The last night consisted of a commissioning ceremony.  It was incredible to see different students being sent all across the world.  I loved this picture!

I hope you liked the pictures! I'll be adding a lot more in the future. The last few days when I have felt fearful or anxious, I have been meditating on this verse.

"See, God has come to save me.  

I will trust in him and not be afraid.  

The Lord God is my strength and my song; 

he has given me victory." 

Isaiah 12:2

That's all for now!