Adjusting to the way of life here hasn’t been too bad. The electricity is only on at sometimes. The neighborhood has a generator and the government also supplies electricity during part of the day. We can only use the washer, blow driers and other appliances when there is government electricity though. I am also learning to get used to cold showers. Thankfully, the weather here is very warm and dry.
Many things here remind me of when we lived in southern Russia. Some of the products at the grocery store are the same, and we are lacking in the same things as well. I actually learned how to make my own bread the other day! The food here is pretty good though: lots of rice, bread, vegetables and fruits. They do use a lot of oil however. The tea and pastries are amazing.
I have gotten to know my team here pretty well so far. They are all very nice and helpful in terms of adjusting and learning about the culture here.
English classes have begun. We teach on Mondays and Wednesdays. My first class was a little bit shaky, but I know it can only get better. We have our coffee shop night on Thursdays, so that our students can come and practice lots of conversational English and that we might build relationships with them in order to share with them. I am also learning how to make cappuccinos, lattes and macchiatos. I am excited to start baking for the shop as well.
It has been a little difficult trying to figure out how to act, what to say and how to simply live in this new culture. It is also challenging for me to be outgoing sometimes, as I am often shy. The Lord has placed several verses on my heart
Psalm 37:3-7 Trust in the LORD, and do good; dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness. Delight yourself in the LORD and He will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the LORD; trust in Him and He will act.
Psalm 34:4-5 I sought the LORD and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears. Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame.
