Safe and Sound in Ibadan!

Just in case you were awaiting the message, I arrive safely in Ibadan, Nigeria. I can’t believe that I have only been here a few days! I feel like I have already known some of these people for ages now! Needless to say, they are all so welcoming to me. I have been told/seen that in Nigerian culture you must welcome everyone upon entering a room. If you do not “greet” they will not invite you into your conversation. Also, even if you greeted them in the morning, if it is afternoon you must start the process all over again.

Well, our work week began on Monday! I am actually working with another 2nd grade teacher, who is about to have a baby any day now. So I will have both classes for this term (through December), then come January they will be split. It has been wonderful to have someone to give me ideas and help me out as I learn more about the school. I also finally have a class list!!! I have twenty students, the majority are Christians, though I do have some Muslim and Hindu students, so you can be praying for them. As far as nationality goes, I have students who are: German, Indian, Nigerian, American/Nigerian, British/Nigerian, Irish/Nigerian and Lebanese! So quit the mix! I also found out that I will be coaching the girls soccer team and possibly to running/assisting in a speech and debate club. 

I also got to go to the market for the first time today! I am glad that I went with two guys, I had no questions in regards to my security :) The market was hectic! It was a good experience, but I will only go on days that I have a lot of energy :) Well, for now this is just a quick update! I do want to say though that I am settling in very well and the knowledge that God is close has been my security!! I have stepped into a school that truly loves God and recognizes His sovereignty! 

~ Both of these pictures are a view from inside the school onto the street. Sorry, not a very good ones, I will try to get a better one sometime.