Here We Go Again!

In one month's time, we will be making our way across the ocean again....this time to Benin, West Africa.
A different mission.......this time with Mercy Ships.  After much deliberation and finally when it was discovered that there would be a cabin free for all of us to go, we have decided to go as a family again.
If you google Mercy Ships, I believe you can have a virtual tour of the ship.
Mercy Ships is something we have been interested in for a long time, but due to limited space for short term families, there never really was the opportunity to go before.
It's been two years since our last mission and it feels like a long time ago......I think it is time!
I am excited to go back to Africa again.  BUT, I've never been to West Africa and we won't know any of the languages spoken there. Our Swahili will be of no use.  Culturally it will be different as well.
We've always had our own house before and I've done all the cooking.  This time we will all be staying in very small and close quarters and will go to the cafeteria for meals.  I think we will need you to pray that we come back still speaking to each other - we had a trial run this summer in our motorhome for two weeks and I can't say that living in close quarters is an easy thing to do!!!
Anyway, the kids and I are still good for immunizations - we won't need to update any.  Gary does, but the rest of us are good to go.
I'm debating how to pack (as usual).  We will have to take duffel bags as there is no room for suitcases on the ship. How many gifts to bring?   What will be most useful?  Should we bring any school books?
etc. etc.
It is a busy time right up until we leave and it's going to come upon us quickly.
Please pray for us as you feel led.  We really appreciate the prayer coverage before, during and after our mission.
Lori