Bonne Arrivee!

Frequently, these words echo as a warm welcome. On my first Sunday in church, I introduced myself during the announcements as is customary for newcomers and after the service stood in a receiving line to shake hands with everyone as they walked out! Soon after, members of the church English club crowded around as well as a darling 9 year old who stood silently by my side until I stooped down to speak with her. She hardly left my side till she had to leave and brought her 5 year old sister and young brother to meet me as well. The 5 year old traced the blue veins on my hand - I have clear skin here.
This past week has been a swirl of new experiences, sights, smells and tastes. Life is hands on - handshakes for greeting and parting, carrying or embracing orphans who crave attention, carefully selecting fruits, vegetables and meat at the market, preparing food from scratch . . .
The rebel soldiers who control entry into these northern towns let members of the mission baptiste pass by without paying fees, but buses and taxis and other profitable transportation must pay at each spiked road block that is then slid out of the way for them to pass by. Driving is simple: if you are faster, you pass!
Roadsides in town or near a village are brilliant with colorful paniers worn by the woman, frequently seen with both babies on their back and large bowls of items such as food or fabric on their heads. The Ivorians are experts in transportation without fuel, though they also love motocycles. In the churchyard Sunday were parked at least 15!!!
In the Ragsdale household, French predominates but English and German come second, especially as this is the primary language of my brother Eric (16 but very tall) from Luxembourg.
I can sense your prayers - a sense of peace covers my heart as I delight in life here. I can hardly believe it has only been a week. Please keep praying as soon I will be spending more time in the Bouake orphanage assisting with basic care as well as coming alongside to learn from the nurse and Angelika (whose background is pediatrics).
Prayer times here are wonderful - often everyone prays at once.
Je suis tres reconnaissant pour vous. (I am very grateful for you all).