November 2001 has been busy, challenging and really enjoyable. As you can imagine we are still very much continuing to adjust to life in Albania. Each day presents us with new issues and different experiences. Life here is anything but boring.

 Language

To our surprise we are enjoying learning Shqip (Albanian). We are having language classes everyday and gradually beginning to pick up words and phrases. It is a real answer to prayer that we were able to find a nanny for Ben while we have lessons. Our nanny is called Shpresa and she is a member of the church we are attending. Our teacher is called Roza and she is very patient with us. Also attending our lessons are two dutch ladies and a couple from Canada.

 Church

During our language study we are committed to attending Udhe e Shpreses Kriste Baptiste (Way of Hope Baptist Church).

The church began in 1993 and has approximately 40 members. It meets in the Baptist Centre in Tirana and there is one service each Sunday. At the moment the church is without a pastor and there is a possibility that this is where Mat will work as minister after our language study.

 Living & Learning

Yesterday Mat bought a cooker for our house. He is really proud to be able to put the language into practice! Houses in Albania are not the same as in England. There are no gas pipes running into the house so cookers come with gas bomblers. Electricity is also very different. We do not have electricity from 9-1 and 3-7 each day. This means that our water needs to be regulated. These issues may seem quite difficult but to be honest this is all part of adapting our lifestyle and adjusting our daily activities.

Zoti ju bekofti (God bless you) Mat & Hannah

Ben sends a big hug