Thanksgiving, Tokyo style

Last week we celebrated our first Thanksgiving away from home. Of course it couldn't be the same without our families, but God has given us a beautiful family here. Thank you for praying for us - we had a really special day! Our team had a traditional meal together and watched the Cowboy game from the previous week (downloaded from the internet). Everything was delicious and maybe even extra-special since we had to work so hard to find some of it!! How cute are those turkeys??

Then on Friday night our team hosted a Thanksgiving party for our Japanese friends. We made all of the traditional foods and talked about why we celebrate Thanksgiving. You can see that we had quite a turn out!! (That is not even the whole group!!) It was such a fun night, and many new friendships were formed! In the second picture you can see our cross-cultural Thanksgiving dinner in progress: eating American food.. but on the floor and with chopsticks!

Please continue to remember our Japanese friends in prayer. Many are interested and seeking to know more. Also please remember us and our team as we try each day to love them as God does!



Here are some things you can give thanks to God for with us:

• A smooth transition and great first month here in our new home.
• A comfortable apartment in a neighborhood we love.
• A neighbor who speaks English and her family's hospitality toward us.
• A team that has helped and encouraged us greatly!
• New friends at our target universities.
• Many chances to share the Gospel and some encouraging responses.
• Language teachers we love and good progress in learning so far.
• Our beautiful families back home and their love and support for us.
• All of the people in all of the churches who give to the IMB and allow us to be here!

And of course we're so thankful for each of you that prays on behalf of us and this nation! We love you! Happy Thanksgiving :)