29 Days, Day 16

Finally...I'm writing about Montana! I think lots and lots of people have no clue what I'm doing out here, so it's a good thing that it's one of the things on my 29 Days List, huh?? I'm out here to establish relationships with this new crop of missionaries before they head overseas for their internship. Having the opportunity to invest in them through getting to know them and by building friendships before they're on the field and in the middle of culture shock, a new language, new ministry, new living situation, new co-workers, etc. can make such a difference in them trusting me and wanting me in their lives when they're going through those difficulties. And I've sooo enjoyed getting to know this class. They're just a fun, lively bunch, and it's been a real pleasure to be out here for these last 8 days. So today, on Day 16 of 29 Days of Thanksgiving, I'm thankful for: how quickly I formed relationships with the students this week; what a great class they are; the things I see God doing; how unified this class is; for the newest addition to the MMT staff- the O'Connells; for the amazing provision of childcare for families with little ones; for great conversations that have been had; for the opportunity to go through the Crown Financial class again(I did the 12 wk. course years ago); for a great week with great teachers(I'll write about them later); for a good time catching up with people in the community; and for God's knowing more about timing than I do(I'll explain that in another post).

The entire training center crew: full time staff, teachers, and students(and one visiting mother)

Our friend, the deer mule? This is Elizabeth, one of the students. She'll be doing her internship in Bircii, Romania, with the Roberts family(who I've spent time with twice). It has been so great to get to know her and we're already discussing my first visit to her on the field. =-)