Sorry it’s been a while since my last update! I have to confess to some serious computer issues. My 3 year old laptop has ‘tapped-out’ for the time being, so I’m writing you a quick email update on a friend’s computer. (Which is making for a very interesting typing experience, as it’s a German computer and keyboard. I’m back to the days of hunting and pecking for the right keys!!!)

Anyways, I wanted to let you know that I am alive and well. We just wrapped up the summer term and now the students are on their Aug. to Sept. vacation and the last of our short-term workers have headed back home to their respective home countries. It’s been crazy busy, and I have learned SO much. I even got to go to Iwate prefecture (an area badly affected by last year’s Tsunami) and work with some of the missionaries there for a couple of days.  I have to confess I am ready for the break though. This week I’ve had the chance to take a few extra Japanese language classes, and been able to have some one-on-one time with a few of the girls who have stayed in Hokkaido for at least part of the break. I will be headed home to Kansas for my brother’s wedding for part of September as well. I am really looking forward to getting to see my family!

Speaking of that, I wanted to invite you all to come hear me give a ministry update at my home church. It will be Sunday the 9th of September atShawnee Heights Baptist Church in Topeka (4335 Southeast 29th Street Topeka, KS 66605). The service starts at 10:45 am and I have been given the entire message time to update everyone on life in Japan and what’s been going on here. Since my computer is not allowing me to send you all a letter update this month, come hear me talk about Japan in person!  

There will be lots of pictures of course!

Anyways, I will keep this email short. I just wanted to let you all know I’m still alive and well, and I’ll send you a better update as soon as I can!

Thank you SOOO much for your prayers and support! It has been very needed and VERY appreciated!!!

In Christ,

Alyssa Mattox

On Friday we worked in the same area as yesterday.  I’ve acclimated to the elevation sort of, still take breaks climbing to the job site. The job site is on the mountain above the camp. At the point where four wheel drive is no longer safe, we hoof-it another 500yards with all of our gear, food, and water.

We will work another day Saturday and head back Sunday. 

I’ve met some incredible people on this adventure; pastors, retired police, enengineers, plummers ,etc. Several are leaving here and are headed to Oklahoma on Monday to assist with the “ash out” effort from the fires several weeks ago.

It is a very fulfilling ministry; knowing that we had a hand in sparing the camp from further damage is very rewarding.

Don