December Update

 

Update on the Ottosons

 We want to provide you an update on our family.

 Previously, we sent out a letter announcing an important change in regards to our ministry. If you didn’t get that letter, it can be viewed on our blog.

I apologize for not sending out this information earlier electronically. Lately, there have been many things going on in our lives.

 A couple of months ago, we felt led to end our missionary service in Mexico. It was difficult for us to leave after spending 4 years serving at the Pan de Vida orphanage.

 Alex, Brianna and I (Bryan) were the first to come back to the United States.  Brenda, Ariadne and James returned later. The trip back went well for all of us. We received generous support from new acquaintances, friends and family in the form of housing, food and money to help cover our traveling expenses! We praise God for His provision.

Enjoying free ice cones as a reward for participating in the city's library reading challenge

 Prior to coming back, Ariadne performed in a music contest in Mexico. Although Ariadne didn’t win, she received honorable mention in her performance. She competed against older musicians who had more experience playing the viola. It was a great experience for her.

Ariadne performing at the competition

 It has been a challenge for all of us to adjust back to life in the U.S. lived in Mexico for 4 years. Some of the changes have been experiencing differences in culture, food and weather. Also, we had to look for employment, housing, and necessary household items.

 James, who is now 2-year-old, had a hard time with being uprooted from Mexico.  He  missed his grandma in Mexico. At first, he clung to Brenda all day.  It took him a while to get used to the changes.

Brianna loves to take care of James. She has been a big help.

 Many people have helped us with the adjustment.  We were given financial assistance, food, clothing, educational material for our kids and some furniture items. Other things we got at a discounted price. I even got a loaner car to use for driving to work.

 A generous couple bought new coats for the kids to face Nebraska winters

 Also, a few people also provided me with temporary jobs while I was working on getting a full-time job. 

 After a lengthy search, I got a job. I'm grateful to be employed, but I realized it is not going to be a long-term job for me. I'm looking at other job options. I will need to go back to school in order to get into teaching.

 We appreciate my parents for allowing us to stay in their house while looking for permanent housing. We are grateful to everyone who provided assistance!  

Now that James is doing better, Brenda has started looking at some part-time job options.

 Brenda continues homeschooling Ariadne, Alex and Brianna. They are also participating in a homeschool orchestra. Ariadne continues taking viola lessons online with her teacher from Mexico. We are planning to resume music lessons for Alex and Brianna soon.

Alex had the opportunity to go to a Husker football game with his grandpa

 Also, we plan to buy a house soon, Lord willing. After looking at many houses, we found one that was right for us. We are looking forward to having a place to call our own. We plan to close on the house by December 30.

If you live in or near Lincoln, Nebraska, please let me know if you have any no longer needed household items. There are some things that we need.  My email is bryanottoson@gmail.com and my phone number is 402-314-4375.

 We appreciate everyone who has helped us and who have prayed. It means a lot to us.  Everyone's support has made the transition a lot easier.  

Thank you.

The Ottosons     

- Bryan, Brenda, Ariadne, Alex, Brianna, & James