Monday 4 July 2011

Update from Pennsylvania

We have spent the last two weeks in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania for mission's training. We have another week and half to go before we head to Winnipeg and I thought I'd give a little update on our time here so far. 

- We are with 12 other soon-to-be missionaries who will be dispersing around the globe this year. We are enjoying getting to know this great group of people.


- The discipleship centre we're staying in is in the ghetto of Harrisburg- quite an interesting neighbourhood! Right now I am listening to a crazy amount of 4th of July fireworks and firecrackers just outside my window (and am surprised that Cody is sleeping through it!).

Our little climber loves the stairs in the 100-year-old building we're living in.

- Cody was quite sick the first week with a flu, ear ache and rash (it was a virus). So needless to say, it was rather hard leaving him for the first time and he did spend a couple of the sessions snuggling on mommy's lap. He is back to his usual cheerful self now and is very happy with the lovely childcare girls.

He spends a lot of time eating and giggling in this great seat we purchased. 

- We have had some great cross-cultural experiences. We visited a Muslim mosque, a Messianic Jewish synagogue and a Conservative Jewish synagogue. This weekend we head to a Hindu temple in New Jersey.

- Being tourists here on the weekends has been much fun. We spent a day touring the beautiful Amish countryside. My favourite stop was a toy store with handmade wooden toys. We also went to Hershey, Pennsylvania and learned how to make a kiss! Cody loved the little train ride, especially the singing cows.


- We have really appreciated the classes. So far, I'd have to say David Shenk was my favourite. If you haven't read his books, you should. He has a wealth of experience, especially when it comes to Muslim-Christian dialogues and he shares the most interesting cross-cultural anecdotes.


- Lastly, it is HOT here! I know everyone at home is wishing it were hotter but this heat and humidity seems more like the Philippines and we don't have an air conditioner! 

He's getting good wear of his summer outfits!