A Year in Tanzania

This week marks our one year anniversary of our arrival in Tanzania. 365 days ago, we had moved out of our house, sold our car, and packed a few belongings into our suitcases that we would bring with us on our journey to Africa. As we look back at the year, we have had quite an adventure indeed! Filled with both challenges and joy, our experience has been rich. Here are a few highlights from our first year.

Language School – we attended language school in Arusha (northern Tanzania) for three weeks and continued language studies in Morogoro for two more months after that. We made great friends during that time and learned the Swahili language and the customs for the area.

(A few of our language school teachers)

Weekend in Parakuyo – A pastor from a nearby Maasai congregation invited us to spend the weekend in his village. We accepted, and it was a great opportunity to practice our language skills. Most of our time was spent under a tree visiting with the people, but we were also able to visit some bomas (homes) and witness typical life in a Maasai village. We were amazed at how women are able to do anything with a baby on their back – even milk a cow!

Village Visits – Much of our time has been spent visiting the villages in the region. We have been able to participate in baptisms, weddings, fundraisers, church openings, and many other occasions! The music never disappoints, and the hospitality is incredible.

Josh preached his first sermon in Swahili under the shade of a mango tree.

In May we were able to fly to South Africa, rent a car, and road trip through South Africa, Namibia, and Botswana. It was a great opportunity to experience more of Africa and recharge for our work here.

South Africa - near the Cape of Good Hope (it was so exciting to wear our winter clothes!)

Namibia - we watched the sunrise from Dune 65

Botswana - mekoro ride in the Okavango Delta

The Theological Education by Extension (TEE) is up and running! Josh is the TEE coordinator and the program has been well-received.

We met the President of Tanzania at a fundraiser for a new school in the diocese.

I began teaching English (in Swahili) at a local Kindergarten.

We have learned the fair price for produce at the market, how to cook with limited groceries, and how to wash our laundry by hand.

Josh’s parents were able to visit! What a great end to our first year.