Habakkuk 3:18 Yet I will rejoice in the LORD; I will take joy in the God of my salvation

How does it feel to spend 6 weeks in the States after being away for 4 years???? Well I say “away” but that is with being back and forth about twice a year. I must say we have really enjoyed “living” in our little house this time. It is the first time we have actually UNPACKED our suitcases and put things in closets and drawers in this house. That has made us seem somewhat intentional and not so disjointed during this visit. Yes, we have had a ton of appointments to keep track of, but with my handy calendar so far none have been missed. My eyes are doing great and like everyone promised me, cataract surgery was pretty simple. I must say I will be thrilled to be done with “eye shields” soon though. My vision now is totally clear in both eyes for the first time in over a year. I will be happy to be back in our African home for a “clear” view of the mountain!!!

House in Florida

Anna and Andrew in Florida

Siblings

Other than medical appointments we have had some fun while we have been here and caught up with some friends and family. We were able to meet Anna, who now lives in London, here and she and her boyfriend Andrew accompanied us to visit my family in North Carolina. It was a wonderful weekend of visiting and eating too much…… but enjoyed by all. We also were able to present our work at my sister Rachel’s church on Sunday evening. It is such a joy to share our African life with others. We even were able to show our powerpoint presentation to my whole family and that was a blessing. 

While in Florida, Kent was able to clean out all the flower beds and replace the pine straw that was very scarce, with bark. The bark should stay in place better and really makes the beds ,with only shrubs ,look so much better. Kent always needs a project :).  He has made good use of his time in the States. 

Kent’s brother Max and wife Julie, yes the ones that just visited us in Africa, came for a whirlwind 2 days and we took them to NASA at the Kennedy Space Center. If you are ever in the area, be sure to visit there. It takes a whole day and even 2 days is not too much. The exhibits are frequently changed and upgraded to make a really enjoyable experience.

We are thrilled to be adding a member to our team in Africa. Laurie Eastup is coming most likely as we return on October 14th to be the new headmistress of our primary, pre-primary, and secondary school. She is enthusiastic and you can read about her on www.rafikifoundation.org website. She is a much prayed for addition to our team.

How does it work for 1/2 of the missionaries from our Village to leave and the remaining half do all the work for six whole weeks? Well, I must say first that we have a pretty “well oiled machine” at our Village but yes it is stressful on those left behind. We were able to have the Hoopers, a couple who have been to the Village a number of times, to come and fill in for us. They may not be able to do all our tasks but they can do much of the day to day stuff so that Phil and Sara can concentrate on their work and the things that must be done by long term staff. We are so grateful to have people like the Hoopers to help. Have you ever considered that maybe God is nudging you to serve in a capacity to help when others are gone from the field. All full-time missionaries must go back to the States from time to time to take care of medical issues, homes or property, legal stuff, encourage those who support them in the ministry, training, and spiritual renewal, and other things. These absences are hard on a Village with little missionary staff, so we need more “Hoopers” and the like!!! 

Many new things taking place at our Village now so be on the lookout for another blog update at least by the first of November.