Our first two weeks in Wales have been a blast. Words cannot describe how delighted we are to finally be here. In this short post, I will give you a brief rundown of what we’ve been up to so far.

Mostly, we’ve been settling in. Though we are staying in a borrowed house, we’ve made every effort to make it feel like home to us, which means we’ve unpacked our suitcases, gone grocery shopping, and attended to any immediate needs as well as day-to-day activities.

On top of enjoying some meals and planning sessions with the Downeys and other friends, we’ve also stayed busy taking care of the many things required to become a part of a new community. Last week, we went to the seaside town of Aberystwyth to pick up our finalized Visa cards. They look like a Driver’s License and state we are here as religious workers and have the right to remain in-country for three years.

We’ve also purchased a vehicle. It’s a Skoda Roomster, probably one of the quirkiest looking vehicles ever made, but we like it. Despite its small size, it’s quite roomy. It’s also very economical, which is a must here since gas prices are currently around $9/gallon. Yikes!

Additionally, we’ve registered with the local doctor’s surgery (medical clinic) and signed up with the town’s realtor to be notified of any properties coming up for rent in the area. We’re in the process of getting a bank account, but one of the things we need is a proof of address like a bill or something, but since we’re in borrowed accommodations, we don’t have anything like that. The bank is working with us to figure something out, so we’ll see what comes of that.

We’ve been into town several times to meet the people and learn the ropes. Stepping into Rhayader feels a bit like stepping back in time. The buildings are small and aged. It’s stunning. Even though it’s a small town, it will take us a while to learn everyone’s name and match each person to the appropriate house or business, but we’re working on it.

On our first Sunday, we had a morning service in the town chapel in Rhayader and an afternoon service at Bethania Baptist Chapel in the farming community just outside of town. The second Sunday, Ronnie preached in a couple of different churches, so we tagged along with him. Last Sunday, we were back at the town chapel in the morning and Bethania in the afternoon. I played the piano for the afternoon service and plan to fill that role from now on as the Lord allows.

It’s taken us a few Sundays to figure out how to dress for church. Unlike the churches in the states, the buildings here aren’t much warmer than the outside temperature. Because the buildings are old and drafty, they don’t hold their heat well. So, when dressing for church, dress in layers. The more layers, the better. Chances are, you’ll be sitting in church with your coat and gloves on, but that’s okay because everyone else is doing the same.

On Wednesday night, we have Bible study in the back room of the town chapel of Bethel Baptist. Sadly, the attendance for this meeting (as it is with most of the church services) is down, but we’re hoping to see that change over the coming months.

As you can see, we’ve been busy, working hard to get settled in and learn more about the people we’re here to serve. We’re enjoying our time in Wales, and though things are still a little topsy-turvy without our own place and the rest of our belongings, we’re getting along well.

We have an appointment to look at a beautiful old house next Tuesday. I’m sure there will be many viewings as the property market is a bit crazy here. We’re praying for God’s guidance in the matter and that He will work all things out according to His will for us. If He does allow us to rent this particular property, we would be able to move in by the end of the month, so that would be exciting. But for now, we’re waiting to see what will happen, so we appreciate your prayers.

So, that’s about all for now. I’ll keep you updated on our progress and the housing situation. In the meantime, please know how much we love and appreciate each one of you.