Khovd Getaway

from Nov 12. 2017

We went to Khovd a couple weeks ago and it was the best thing for us! We both feel it’s important to explain how we were financially able to go, because we don’t want anyone thinking we’re misusing the funds you all have so graciously supplied!

We were given a budget for living here. That’s how we determined what we would need to raise. After being here a few months there were some items we changed because we don’t live the way that budget was geared. For example the transportation budget was set originally for $150/ month. We don’t use more than $10/month in good weather. We walk most places and taxis aren’t expensive. That original amount though meant there is a lot set aside for transportation. The way the C&MA works is the budget rules. I can’t spend transportation money for ministry and I can’t spend ministry money for transportation. It’s a good thing. It also means if money was sent for a specific thing I can’t use it for another. I like that.

Mongolia is considered a hard place to live, especially in the cold months. We are advised to get out of the city often. In the last 7 months because of all the crisis going on we have gotten out of the city on our own once with our barista Monkhush, there was field forum, but as beautiful as it was, it’s not the same as getting away. Because of the transportation budget we were able to book tickets ($360 for 2 round trip) to Western Mongolia and visit CAMA workers in Khovd. We can’t tell you how awesome that trip was! It’s amazing how refreshing 3 1/2 days can be. They are a super easy couple to be around and being AWAY was much easier to relax and let things go. Even a day in the countryside doesn’t do that.

So thank you friends for providing necessary refreshment for us. As an unexpected side bonus, it seems to have encouraged the Pitmans as well. It is so appreciated!

Jean