And so it begins!

Just thought I'd throw a quick update up here.  I am going to attempt to post a weekly update, to keep all of you loved ones updated on what is going on in my life!

This past week has been a WILD ride! I had some really incredibly high points, and some pretty brutally low points, as usually comes with throwing yourself into a whole new experience.  When we arrived in London, we came with a job lined up...but that was about it.  These past 10 days have been consumed with getting new phone numbers, new bank accounts, meeting employers, finding a new address, and finding a new church. To say this process was overwhelming is an understatement! I thought about picking up and heading home several times over the past 10 days, however, to quote my girl Shania: "I ain't no quitter!" Thankfully, once things began to fall into place, WE MOVED OUT OF THE TRAVELODGE (this was a very momentous occasion for us, we were pretty stoked to move into an airbnb for the remainder of our homeless days), set up bank accounts, got new phone numbers, and secured a flat.  As everything began to work out, and one panicked phone call home about money later, I began to get more excited about the time ahead of me here in London! It's going to feel even better when we finally move in (COME ON WEDNESDAY!), and get settled into our cute little home.  Since it's 10:58 here the night before our first day of work (YAY), I'll give you a really quick update on what I've learned about myself since coming.

- sleep talking and sleep shenanigans (as I'm now calling it) is a nightly occurrence...sorry future husband, I guess when you marry me, this is what you're signing up for...
- I HATE LIVING OUT OF A SUITCASE! it's just not a settling feeling
- I will never take a refrigerator or stove for granted again...or fruit...or my own bed
- Even though I struggled a bit at first, I'm more than a conqueror and I'm SO excited to start work tomorrow and dig into life here to the fullest.
- I AM getting better at navigating transit! Woo!
- I have the world's best most supportive parents out there, who don't ask questions, and just support me in any way I need. HUGE shout out, famjam - You're amazing. I love you and miss you so much!

Also, tried out Hillsong London this morning, it was great! Next week I'm trying out the other campus in London, just to see how it is, but things are looking promising! YAY CHURCH & welcoming people! (Big shout out to Matt for meeting me this morning, and helping me navigate transit!)

Anyways, that's all.  Thanks for all of the love, prayers, and support you're sending my way.  Missing my Canadian peeps a lot, but digging in to do life here!

Much Love from London,
Manda

P.S. I did not proof read this, so my apologies to all of my English major friends reading this and cringing at any mistakes! hehe!