We have made it to Zambia!
We flew out of Vancouver on Monday, and had stopovers in Paris and Kenya, before making it to Zambia on Wednesday morning. For the amount of flying needed to get to Zambia, all went seamlessly, and we arrived well-worn, but excited! We were met at the airport by the Operations Manager - Kalelwa, and the site Pastor - Ngoie. We were able to do a grocery run, get Zambian sim cards for our phones, and then had lunch in town. We arrived at Living Hope and were greeted by a family that serves at Seeds of Hope - they made and dropped dinner off for us! What an absolute blessing to feel such community even on the other side of the world!
We have spent the last few days adjusting to the time change (9 hours different than BC). There is a pesty roaming rooster that likes to perch on our wall and crow at 4 am, which isn't exactly helping, haha! We have been making this beautiful house our home, and are trying to set it up in a way that most makes sense for homeschooling & our family.
One major adjustment for us is to the power in Zambia. Or should I say, the lack of power!
It was a very dry rainy season this year, and that is what generates that majority of power here. Because of the lack of rain, the government implemented "load-shedding" to ensure that there is not an over usage of power. Basically, they turn off the power for 21-22 hours a day!!! The power is typically turned on during the night so that most people are sleeping and not much power is consumed! We are so thankful that Living Hope has a solar power system that gives us more power than just 2 hours a day!!
This afternoon was great to get out of the house and explore the campus a bit. We spent time at the playground, met some of the children that live on site, and watched some of their soccer training!
After the weekend, Jon is looking forward to starting up his work here, and the kids and I plan to dive into homeschooling. Please keep us in prayer - for continued adjusting to life out here, for patience as we start up homeschool, and that God will bless the work being done by Living Hope. Thanks for following along!
Good day whatever time it is in Zambia. Just wanted to be ahead of things and wish Austin and Zara a most Happy Birthday next week. Hugs to both of you.
Love Randy and Shirley
Thankful for your safe arrival and praying that all the adjustments which you need to make go well.
Good Luck and Happy Life ! What an adventure for all of you ! from Bill Sandau
You have been in my thoughts and prayers constantly. You are a blessing Deleeuw family ❤️
Been thinking of you so much this week, nice to read your update! Will definitely keep you all in our prayers during this time of transition ❤️ Glad they have solar power, 22 hours a day without power is hard to imagine!!
Tanya