Arkansas to Africa: Last full week of FPO

So almost two months ago I arrived here in Rockville, VA, ready to begin one of the first major transitions of going to the mission field. At the time, nine weeks seemed like a long time but now that it's almost over, I wonder where the time went.

But here I am, these final days at ILC for FPO with the IMB for my ISC term (gotta love those acronyms - wait, is correct?) finishing up last-minute details and attempting to finish my seminary assignments before the weekend so I can enjoy those final precious days with some of the most incredible people in the world. Going in to FPO, I heard from previous missionaries the friendships made here are the best part and what they remembered most. I was a bit skeptical but not anymore. Sure, it's tough living in an isolated place with more than 300 people, spending all day together, eating most meals together and socializing together. But if it wasn't for these close quarters and walking this journey together, we wouldn't have built the close relationships we have.

One thing I'm finding comfort in when I leave next week is I'll be reconnecting with most of my friends going to Central Eastern & Southern Africa about three weeks later. Actually, after I've said my goodbyes at home (which I'm also not looking forward to) October 16, I'll meet up with my buddy Jeff (who has been a God-send at FPO) and one of my new extended families, the Warren's, in Atlanta. The Warren's and I will be making the 18-hour flight to Jo'burg together (praise the Lord we're on the same flight!) and Jeff will be boarding his plane to Tanzania just after us. Less than a week later, most of us will be back together for another month in Zambia for 40/40 on-field training.

I am ready to see my parents (happy birthday, dad!), grandparents, Keilani & John, aunts and uncles, three beautiful and incredible nieces (Beth, Kati & Holly) and of course, my incredible friends who I've missed so much.

Here are some pictures below from my latest trip to DC and a special African meal we prepared last week. Enjoy and thanks for reading!