Each Step I Take

First of all, praise God! Faithful He has been, faithful He continues to be. I am one week into my time here in Japan, and already the blessings are too many to count. I think that is probably true of anyone's life, but it's been especially evident this week for me. It hasn't been all easy, and every day I'm finding more things I need to learn, but we serve a mighty, good God. I am so beyond thankful for all the prayers for this ministry and for me!

After a 13 hour flight and time at the airport which went SO smoothly, I was welcomed by my "Japan family" and delicious sushi! Thankful for these sweet people who have included me in their evenings, fed me, helped me move to my apartment, sat at the bank and the phone store for hours on end, and shared wonderful conversations with me already. Blessings from God, they are.

On my first full day in Japan, I moved into my own apartment where I plan to live the next 3 years. It's a good walking/bicycle distance from the place I'll be teaching, the train station, and a beautiful river that may just become my favorite location here.

~I just think it's lovely~

Church on Sunday was rich, as always. It was just in a little different setting! After church, I had the opportunity to meet some of my students and their parents. So many sweet kids, and so many names to remember! (Remembering names is not typically my strong suit!)

After those first couple days filled with so many new experiences and adrenaline to match, jet lag hit full force. Monday through Wednesday held a lot of logistical things to get me settled here and able to be more independent, and observing several English classes to begin the transition to me teaching full-time! My bed is always so welcoming after long days of pushing through the tired. :)

Thursday and Friday were filled with getting to know people better, enjoying some quiet time, doing some solo train rides for the first time, shopping for a few things by myself, and hiking a beautiful mountain with those who will be helping with VBS! To top off my first week as a resident in Japan, I enjoyed singing with a couple neighbor ladies. God is so good, and I pray that more may know Him and His love for each of us!

A sneak peek into my views.

Each step I take, my Savior goes before me...