The rubber and the road...

It sounds like everyone is starting to settle after a frantic time of change! Molly and I have finally moved into our new apartment, and are in the process of setting up phone and email along with all the other ammenities and furniture! Please be patient with us as we figure all of this out.

In response to Nate's request for a timeline, I thought I should update you on progress I have made since I got back. I have talked to Dad and Randall about speaking with the elders, and they agree that it is a good idea to introduce the topic to them. Unfortunately, with the massive transitions the church is going through at them moment, it is going to be a while before they can really devote their attention to it.

Having said that, there is still much we can do! Randall mentioned a few areas that I can start researching up on, some steps I can take in the meantime. Now that I feel I am finally settled a little bit, I can have a crack at them. Most of this work will be demographic studies, scouting, and some strategic brainstorming. I will endeavor to keep you all up to date on how this is going through the blog or by email.

As far as a timeline goes, it is all very flexible at this time. Randall and I thought that shooting for arrival in NZ by Fall or Winter (US) of 07, and then planting by April 09 is as good an option as any. If more time (or less) is needed for support raising, then that can be changed. Also, if we decide that the plant could happen sooner once we have researched it more, then this can also be done.

In the meantime, now is the time for dreaming and reading. I think that this blog is a great vehicle for this, and I think that we should engage it regularly. If you guys are keen to do the synchronized reading thing, then I think we should start on it. Nate and Whitney mentioned Russell's book "When God builds the Church," which I think is great. When you guys have finished up your other books, we can dive in.

Sorry for such a long blog. I look forward to getting into a routine where I blog often and shorter! Please let me know what you think of the above.

Oh, by the way, the Tri-Nations Rugby is on at the moment (NZ, Aus, South Africa), and the All Blacks are dominating! Good times...

God bless you all, and thank you so much for the kind words you are sending to us. Molly's face just lights up to see her name on a letter from the States. You are doing so much to make her transition (and consequently mine!) easier. Thank you!