Stacia in Japan

 By Stacia via her Facebook

Found wifi! I'm here! We arrived in Osaka and got through customs. Some of our codes weren't right so we had to go through twice, but we still got through decently fast. Very efficient system.

Once in Japan we made our way to J-House and settled in for a wonderful dinner. That's about when I realized I had no appetite and felt like puking. Still, I hate being 'rude' so I slowly ate all the food...and it was really yummy. I wanted it. We went to a convenience store, picked up some supplies then headed back to J-House where we finished the night with a team meeting.

Yesterday we prepped for ministry and went over J-House rules. By 1 I realized I was still feeling like puking and now I was chilled as well. Yep. I had a fever. I let our leaders know I was sick, and they had me stay back to rest. I took a lot of meds and mom found a way to call which was amazing.

This morning, I feel way better. I think my fever broke . I was able to sleep for a long time, so I have energy again.

One thing I hadn't been prepared for was how emotional being back would make me. We rode on a train to get to J-House the first time and sitting there watching cherry blossom adorned Osaka pass by I felt joy, peace, fear, grief, nausea (cause why not???), and confusion. It's been so wonderful to be back. I already have done everything I'd hoped for (see cherry blossoms, shop at a convenience store, and witness a proper vending machine) and the trip is just beginning! So many adventures left to have over the next week.

On the other hand, being back has forcefully reminded me that Cy will never be able to visit me. He used to talk about someday bringing his girls over or taking a Goecker wide trip to Japan. It's hard knowing that he will never be here to do that. I miss him.

Please pray for emotional and physical resilience. Also, wisdom as our team goes through the tricky process known as cross cultural ministry. We could all use some prayers for wisdom as we go forward. Everything is done so beautifully different here.

(Cherry blossom and donut photo courtesy of Lonicera)