It’s not often I get to say that phrase. Our balmy Pucallpa doesn’t usually incite thoughts of a nip in the air. But there is definitely a nip in the air here in Southwestern PA…and get this…snow on the ground! It was gone as soon as it came with the sun melting away the tiny little bit that fell, but it was definitely snow. Liam was a little boy in awe watching the flakes coming down. We were hoping to see snow in December but were surprised to get to see it already in November. November. Now there is another surprise. Each time we come to the States I vow it will be a calm, quiet, relaxing time…and each time I am reminded about one week in that it is actually going to be filled to the brim and the time is going to pass by quicker than I will be able to believe.
And it has. As I looked over my planner, I realized I am already on the page of “things to do/get before leaving the States” that I had brainstormed before leaving Pucallpa. However, the time that has passed has been absolutely wonderful! We have spent the last few months immersed in family and friends…and “US life.” During the week, I have played “stay-at-home mom,” a new role for me, and have filled my time managing the kids’ activities, much-needed Spanish refresher classes and the mound of laundry that seems to be present whatever country you live in! My adventures have also included doctors appointments and lab work. A special diet and some medication changes are helping but I’m still trying to figure out how to control my unexpected stomach flare-ups and fatigue. We keep working on it! Mike, who can’t sit still, helped his Uncle winterize boats for a couple of months and has even gotten to fish a few times. As our departure approaches though, he’s back to school planning for next semester at SAM Academy.
The kids have been having a great time while here in the Northern Hemisphere. Ella has done so amazing with her riding lessons that I’m trying to figure out how to pack a horse in our suitcases. Liam finished up baseball, his new passion, and moved into Cub Scout meetings. He’s working diligently trying to earn his Bear rank before we leave in January. My mom and sister took the kids to Washington DC for a weekend where Liam was absolutely fascinated with the soldiers guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
In ministry news, it has been so wonderful to share time with our supporting churches. Our Sundays (and some Wednesdays) have been spent worshiping and sharing with our wonderful supporting churches. We were able to share meals of Aji de Gallina, a Peruvian dish, with a few congregations. I think we cooked a over 10 gallons of aji sauce! With others we were able to share the wonderful things that were happening at SAM Academy and the continued need for our school as a support for the missionary families of that area. While it’s good to be in the States, our time sharing renewed our desires to return to Pucallpa and our students! Our heart’s work has been reignited after this time of rest and we are immensely excited to be into ministry again soon.
As we head out the door to help bake pies this Thanksgiving-Eve, our hearts our full knowing we will be surrounded by our loved ones this special day of thanks. But even more, as we type this, our hearts are full of thanks for YOU, our partners and friends. Our prayer for you is that your season may be filled with JOY. That all the stresses of life, work, health, family, all the worries of this life, may be eclipsed by the wonderful love of our Father as you celebrate the many blessings He has given us. From our family to yours…Happy Thanksgiving!
Family of 4 Serving 1 