Settling In...Part 2

Once again, I must apologize for my sporadic posts. There's really so much to say, but unfortunately, our laptop freaked out last week and had to be left at the Apple store in Glasgow...thus our already minimal internet access became nil! But, here we are at the library in Crieff, and I thought I'd share an update, but unfortunately, no pictures since I'm not on our computer!

I've been in Scotland almost a month now, and it's starting to feel like home. I love our cozy little cottage (which I will post pictures or a video of ASAP), our neighbors who have been incredibly kind and generous, the church presence, and the whole experience of being somewhere new. Overall, Scotland is a beautiful place full of generous and helpful people. Most recently, John and Isobel have loaned us their Land Rover, which means that we can get around much easier and don't have to rely on public transportation. They added Rusty to their insurance and even bought us roadside assistance. And no, you can't have them, they're OUR fabulous neighbors! Sunday we got to experience the hospitality of a wonderful family from the Perth church, who hosted us for lunch and afternoon fellowship. I also got to meet Derrick and Dayna Thames, an American couple who have come to do ministry at the Perth church. They had a baby 2 weeks ago and have been fun to get to know, and even though I didn't realize I'd have a need to be around other Americans, I do, and they're great! Also, on the upside, we've recently registered with the NHS, Scotland's National Health Service, which basically means that if you're here, you're taken care of in the healthcare department. This means free treatment for most things AND very affordable prescriptions.

Last week, Rusty and I registered at the Crieff Medical Centre and had our introductory appointments. It was absolutely amazing...all we did was fill out some paperwork.  Once we got there, I got right in, and it took me a few minutes to process the fact that the actual doctor came to the waiting room to get me. She was the first and only person I even spoke to...no waiting around!  She was very friendly, took my height, weight, blood pressure, history, etc.  During my appointment, I also learned that prescriptions here are incredibly affordable (the one I needed was FREE) and within 3 years will be completely free.  It really is amazing and refreshing to be in a country where you know that every man, woman, child, and elderly person has everything they need medically.  No one is working into their retirement years so that they can afford insurance or prescriptions, parents don't have to avoid taking their sick children to the doctor to save money, etc.  Our new friend Dayna just had her baby here and it was totally and completely free.  In fact, her baby will even get home visits from her doctor until she's school aged AND a weekly stipend from the government to help pay for things she needs or to stick away for the future. I've heard a lot of folks in the US badmouth the system here because of supposed long waiting lists, etc.  My experience with the NHS is minimal, but so far, I have to say that everything has been positive, and I think it says something about a nation when they would rather have everyone taken care of than reserve healthcare for those who can afford it.  And in fact, if Scottish citizens want to, they can buy health insurance and "upgrade" their care.

I'll close this lengthy post with a prayer request...Rusty and I are eagerly seeking a permanent home and jobs here in Scotland.  We have some possibilities, and we know that we are in God's very capable and loving hands, BUT our human nature is making us feel antsy for these issues to be resolved.  We'd appreciate all of your prayers.