Hello everyone!
It has been incredible and at times overwhelming to consider God's love which has been shown to us through the people here as well as the encouragement you each leave in your comments. I can definitely tell that many of you have been faithful prayer warriors because more than I could have ever imagined has been provided for us.
Everyday we look around and see palm trees and other exotic plants with huge green leaves. Oftentimes I will see out of the corner of my eye some large bug running up the wall and then realize that it's a gecko (pretty sweet). The children we are "parenting" are all adorable and energetic. Despite being confused and sometimes frustrated by the language barrier I have found that the interactions we each have with them are ones I will never forget. I have butchered practically all of the Tamil names they told me and today I was able to giggle as they attempted to repeat my full name. I thought McCreary was difficult to say for most English speakers but it's even funnier when small Tamil speaking children attempt it. They roll their r's and it sounds crazy. Mallory has become Maladi.
Today the girls were asking me my family members' names and it made me miss them all. Lindsay - I wish you could be here and see all of this (especially the streets and villages - you would think I am the safest driver in the world compared to the motorcycles and buses here).
Megan, Josh, and I have had the opportunity to interview some of the staff here and it is always entertaining to speak with them. Their stories are incredible and that has been a huge encouragement. The Holy Spirit is clearly moving in India through the IGL!
It's been great spending time with Billy, Megan, and Josh. Megan has been putting post-its everywhere for me to find with encouraging verses and was telling Josh about another helpful passage. Josh breaks out in Bollywood dances which are always entertaining for us. Billy pointed out that the kids love looking at Josh since he is so tall. Billy's been hilarious. There have been a few times that Josh, Meg, and I have all just looked at each other and broken out into uncontrollable laughter at the comments he has made.
Overall it's been tiring but wonderful. God is clearly moving here and continually sustaining us. Thank you everyone for prayer! We are hoping to get pictures up asap.
All my love,
Mallory
