July 7th

So our living room was filled with 44 boxes last week and then we took them to Chicago to get loaded on the container. We are still packing the personal things that our renters won't want around. And then of course there is the final packing of things into suitcases! What doesn't make that cut ends up in a cardbox for a year!

We just returned from a quick trip to Iowa Falls where we had lived for about 5 years. It was so wonderful to see the people who have been friends for years. It is so special to have friends for so many years. We have been blessed by their prayers and fellowship and support in this latest mission trip.

We are busy with last minute preparations and good-byes. That is not easy, but it is only a year and we will be home for a season. We don't know how long that will be, at this time. We know our times are in God's hands and we are comfortable with that.

It is hard to see the end when all that we need to do is "right now!" It is easy to forget that what we are doing all this for is the ministry ahead of us! We are looking forward to reaching out to the high school students and families of Vienna Christian School. That remains a great privilege in terms of internatinal ministry.

We have friends in Vienna we are looking forward to reconneting with as well as making new friends. We have sensed the family aspect of VCS and the welcoming spirit of the staff towards us newcomers.

This is a rambling blog today...no real major life issues going on for which I am thankful1