Whoa, that took longer than it should have, but we are back and doing very well, thanks! The trip was absolutely awesome, and I don't think that it could have been any better - only longer perhaps! It was so amazing to reconnect with old friends and people who used to be "youth" who are now older than we were when we were there!! One of the neatest things happened on Sunday morning when one of the men came up to us and said that he still had (and used!) the guitar that Ben had sold to his mother. At that time he was only 12 years old! It wasn't until his young son, who is now about 12, walked up to him that I finally recognized him! Ben was so glad to hear that his guitar was being put to good use - it was his first guitar, and hard for him to leave behind. But knowing that God has had His hand in all things and seeing where things are at now made it all worth while! We had a very special time of worshipping with the church family that still meets in the same room that we helped to renovate 25 years ago! God is at work in His family all over the world, and to worship with them was very sweet! Oh, and our German came back very quickly! It was almost like we had never left...almost!
We also enjoyed a bit of sightseeing time, and some amazing dinners out (although the extra pounds really weren't necessary to bring back with us!). Aaron enjoyed seeing many of the things that we had once known well. If only we had had more time to enjoy it all! Ah, but the desire to return is even stronger now! The church in Traunstein needs a new place to meet in, and is planning on a building project in the next year or so. Who knows...maybe we could help out?! It is certainly a possibility! Anyone want to come help? Just a thought!
As much as I would like to report that we had fantastic responses to prayers for open hearts from those whom we had been praying for, it just wasn't the right time for confrontations. On the other hand, relationships were re-established and communication restored in places where we pray that we will be able to have an impact in the future. We pray that God will be able to use us somehow in the future, and we want to be available and ready.
Thank you for your prayers regarding jet lag - and I'm thrilled to report that those prayers were definitely answered! We experienced very little at all! Of course, we were a bit tired, but nothing more than usual. Aaron experienced a bit more coming home, and took a few days to really feel like he was 'working' again, but then he was there much longer than we were. I had the energy to do almost everything that I had wanted to do, and (mostly!) keep up with everyone else! Praise the Lord for His strength and good rest!
Next, I am scheduled for reconstructive surgery on my stomach to repair the damage that was caused by the seat belt. Essentially, it's a tummy tuck surgery! Never thought I would ever have that! The procedure will be done in Vancouver on July 23rd. I'm not afraid of the operation, but would appreciate your prayers for a quick recovery - the wedding is only 4 weeks after that! I want to be up and ready for it, not dragging around recuperating. I'll be staying with my mom and sister for a time after, and then my mom will be bringing me back to PG and staying to help me out after - bless her!! She is so giving and helpful! There is still no word on the surgery for my eyes.
As for the rest, everyone is doing as well as they could be. Ben is still struggling with some discomfort and is hindered in some movements due to the pain in his foot and arm. Aaron's back keeps giving him some trouble and pain, but both of them keep plugging away. Aaron is looking for work for the summer and into the fall, as he plans not to go to school this fall after all. Pray for direction and guidance for him as he readjusts to working life, and that he finds a job that he is able to do without pain or problems. Jason and Dani are only a bit less than 6 weeks away from their special day, and are very excited, to say the least! Christopher and Corinne have to wait until October, so they will have to be more patient! Christopher has been working very hard redoing my kitchen, completing most of it while we were away! What an amazing thing to go away and come back to an almost completely new kitchen!! There are still some things to finish, but oh, is it ever nice!!
Over and over again in the past month I have been reminded to be so thankful for what we have been able to accomplish and take part in! I pray that I will never take any of this for granted!
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