Wheels Down!

So we are "wheels down" in Ghana as of late last night.  First this I want to say is that this is awesome! (And a bit overwhelming).

We have had two weeks of training in Provo and Salt Lake. There was so much information given to us that my head is still spinning from that.  We learned how to teach, a lot of medical and mental health information, pastoral counseling, and  how to run so many computer programs full of valuable information.  We met and became friends with many dear people who have changed our lives. Sadly, who knows if we will see some of them again.  They were headed all over the world to try to make a difference and bring others to Christ.

We traveled to Ghana with two other couples who also trained with us.  The Millers will be working with the Young Single Adults here and the Crouches who are doing the medical.  We had a layover in Amsterdam but the trains were not running so we were not able to get out of the airport.  It was a long trip and we are all struggling with jet lag.  My feet and ankles have never been so swollen.  We arrived last night and then had a long, long line at Immigration.  It was so strange when they fumigated the plane before we could land (Ghanaian law).  They walked up and down the aisle spraying and I was almost afraid to breathe.

Our apartment is nice.  It has technically three bedrooms but one of them is an office and the dryer is also in there and we have air conditioning.  We are in a gated apartment complex with guards at the gate.  A lot of effort goes into keeping things safe here.  I will have to use an electronic key three times to get into my office.

Today, we went to church. Sometimes it's hard to believe we are speaking the same language but I'm sure it will get easier the longer we are here.  I love the culture and enthusiasm of the people here.  We have lunch with the Blackwells.  I am replacing Elder Blackwell as AMHA (Area Mental Health Adviser).  They are beginning their trip home tomorrow.  He gave me some training today and will again tomorrow before he leaves.   This evening, we had dinner with the Area President, President Nash and his wife, along with the Blackwells and Crouches.  It was a very spiritual touching time.  President Nash assured Elder Emfield that there will be plenty for him to do also.

There is a good support system and the ability for consultation in dealing with the mental health issues.  We have a lot of people available by email or phone and that is comforting.  The people are very friendly.  Hopefully this jet lag will go away in the next few days so I can focus.  We still have a bit to do with immigration papers and getting the apartment set up, groceries, etc.

We have taken a few pictures but they will have to wait for another time.  Sleep calls and tomorrow's schedule begins at 7:30am.

Sister Emfield