Getting Settled

We have been in Odessa for over 3 weeks now, and it is slowly starting to feel like home. We live on the 5th floor of a 16 story building and our apartment is quite comfortable. Just about everything we need is within a 30 minutes’ walk so we are thankful to be in such a convenient location. Our days have been filled with gradually buying appliances and other necessities to set up our home, as well as language studies. The tiny dumpster that services our building has been overflowing since our arrival and I’m sure the rumors are flying about the Americans who bring out boxes & trash every time they go outside.



Our flight here was challenging with a dog and a baby, but customs officials barely looked at us (after the hours & numerous appointments Sarah put in to make sure Hanjik’s paperwork was in order), and we were able to hire a Ukrainian to help us navigate the confusing airport system with our mountains of luggage. Esther had severe jet lag combined with some serious teething for the first 10 nights so I’m sure we’re not very popular with our new neighbors. Fortunately Sarah’s parents were able to accompany us and help us with this transition, for which we are very thankful!


Now that the dust is settling from our move, the reality of our new life and the land that is now our home is beginning to hit us. Our emotions go back and forth, from joy that we are finally here to wondering why in the world we ever wanted to move to this country. At our commissioning service last November, we were reminded that missions is God’s idea, not ours. That truth, combined with the knowledge that God has called us here, is an assurance we will cling to in the upcoming months.