Monday: Our first task was to obtain a local phone number and set up Wi-Fi. We quickly learned that not every telecommunications store could do this. At another store, the lady was very helpful, but all the paperwork and verification took hours. We are missing friends and family back home; tears are shed intermittently, but we are grateful for video calls, and we know our Father is watching over us until we are reunited. 

Tuesday: The apartment we call our new home was in need of some furniture. So we ventured out and bought more than we could carry. Every little hand had to help! It was quite the scene as we clumsily brought our purchases in. We also learned to pay all the utility bills—each with a different system and setup—thank you phone and Wi-Fi!

Wednesday: Off to the Doctor’s office! We needed a check-up before we could visit the immigration office. We were so blessed to have someone with us who is familiar with the needed steps as we settle in here. 

Thursday: We went to the immigration office to apply for longer-term visas. There was so much rain this day (that we were not expecting), so we borrowed umbrellas from our new friends! There is also a nice park outside our building; it has a few seating areas and a playground. We’ll be going there often; it’s a great way to meet up with new friends who live nearby.

Friday: School Orientation with lunch and then fun at the Library. We have all the basics set up in our home, but are still on the hunt for some baking necessities and spices! We’ve also been venturing out into the neighbourhood to figure out what is nearby—we found a shop that sells freshly made steamed buns!

Saturday: Finding a caring community of faith is really important to us. We joined a smaller gathering, that felt like a safe place, and they adored our kids—so that was really encouraging. We watched an online service and spent heartfelt time sharing and praying together.

Sunday: We attended an international fellowship in the city and met another family who moved (like us) two months prior. It was an incredible answer to prayer (on both sides), with moms becoming fast friends and a playdate quickly scheduled. So concludes our first week that we, as a family, have navigated together in our new home. We made it!