It's now been a solid two weeks since S squad left, and I realized a few days ago how... normal... life has begun to feel here. 

Some days, the team house feels caught between quiet and empty and overflowing with laughter and joy. We still watch movies every night and sing the same silly songs with the kids, but theres not always coffee in the pot and I haven't played a game of Dutch Blitz in weeks. You don't have to be the first person in line at breakfast to get off-brand Nutella, and the big pile of boots at the door doesn't exist anymore. 

Since getting to spend time here as just our team, we've been able to have some really sweet moments. 

I feel like I finally know the kids more, and I've learned each of their names and personalities. I can tell you who the brothers and sisters are, and I can count on the same kids to give big hugs every time I see them. 

The new normal looks like waking up to find just Zanet in the kitchen preparing breakfast. 

The new normal means everyone gets their own corner of a couch during movies. 

The new normal looks like we cut grass much slower, but we're pretty quick at varnishing the houses now. 

The new normal means super quiet Saturdays and there's always room on the laundry line for my stuff. 

I realized the other day when I woke up, started the coffee pot, and sat down on the couch alone with my Bible that life here finally feels normal. The sketchy electricity and rain on the tin roof and little hands that grab mine when I walk through the village all feel normal. 

This place could never replace home, and the absurd abundance and comfort that we live in in America, but it really is starting to feel more like a home. 

Some prayer requests for right now: 

- that HOPEthiopia would continue to feel like home for my team and the kids

- for health for my team and I, and all the teams that are coming and going with us 

- for humility, positivity, and unity for the team

- for continued growth in self-discipline, love, and grace 

- for S squad -- man, we miss our friends!

- for safety and protection as we spend these few days in Addis before driving back to Harbu Chulule and jumping into the rest of our time here