This adventure started on Thursday bright and early - Amanda and I had to run a few errands before getting on the road to head to Doylestown, PA (where her parents live). The long 8-hour drive actually flew by, and we never even turned the radio on! I guess once we get talking, we don't stop. :)
Once we got to Doylestown, we proceeded to eat, and eat, and eat. :) Thursday: Burgers for dinner, amazing waffles and ice cream for dessert; Friday: amazing gourmet thin crust pizza, then a hot dog/curly fries with a twist ice cream cone for dessert. Getting our fix of American food before we leave I guess. At least that was the excuse we used!
Getting to the airport was pretty uneventful, although bittersweet when saying goodbye to Amanda's parents. They were such wonderful hosts! I felt like a member of the family. :) Once Amanda and I walked into the JFK terminal, I think it hit both of us - we're actually doing this! Leaving for 10 weeks. What were we thinking!? (only slightly kidding lol). There was definitely some excitement, but also slight terror at this adventure we were about to embark on.
Once the plane took off, I looked at Amanda and said, "Get me off this plane!!!" - note: this was mostly in jest lol :). But we were off!! The 1:25am take-off meant Joslyn wanted to sleep ASAP. Caribbean airlines had other ideas...all lights on and serving food at 2:30am!! WORST IDEA EVER. JUST LET ME SLEEP. However, I was able to sleep, and a short 5.5 hours later, we arrived!
Guyana was beautiful from the air. Totally untouched green EVERYWHERE! I've never seen such an expanse of jungle/rainforest! Once we landed, we were met at customs by a Ministry of Health official who took our passports and customs papers to get stamped for us, then led us past the long line of passengers and out to our bags. It was awesome! We apparently have connections here. :)
We were met by the amazing Dr. Maxine, who has been arranging all of our transportation/lodging, and Mr. Makenzie, a driver for IICA. Dr. Maxine was pointing out the sights as we drove by, and bought us breakfast and some snacks to tide us over until she could take us to the supermarket later. Mr. Makenzie was giving us tips and info about Georgetown. Both so helpful! We made it to the flat that is going to be home for the next 5 weeks. Two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a washing machine (they surprised us with this!), wireless internet, etc. See below for some pictures of the flat:
The only downfall to this flat: no air-conditioning. When we stepped off the plane at 7am, it felt like we were swimming through the air lol. That gets worse as the day goes on. :) Here's hoping we acclimate in just a few days!
All-in-all, it was nice getting settled into the flat and finally see Guyana. Now to relax, go grocery shopping, and do some prep work for the start of work on Monday! Kraft spiral Mac-n-Cheese is on the dinner menu tonight. :) Amanda and I were both feelin' the comfort food, plus it's so easy to make after an exhausting day. Prayers are still, and will always be, very much appreciated. :)
Much Love,
Joslyn
P.S. Gotta keep the bible verse tradition going:
Proverbs 3:23-24 - Then you will go safely on your way, and you will not hurt your foot. When you lie down, you will not be afraid. As you lie there, your sleep will be sweet.
love and miss you! be safe!! :)
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