Well, we have been back in Japan for 5 1/2 days already, but it seems like so much longer. As soon as we got back, we kind of just fell back into the routine of things. I’m not sure if that’s a good or a bad thing…I guess kind of both. I’m glad to be back and know what to expect each day and to have a routine again, but it was SO wonderful to be in Chicago.
We had a wonderful break getting to see all of you wonderful family and friends. It was so refreshing to get to talk in English all of the time, to get to get to eat delicious American food, to just feel so relaxed even though we were on the move the whole time we were home, and to get to worship at church.
Our last night (Sunday night) we were at our church’s encounter service and it just felt so normal and so right. It was a wonderful way to our trip – in worship with a community of believers. But at the same time it was so sad to have to know we were leaving it the next day. Worshipping in community is one of the things we miss the most. We know God has a purpose for us here, but sometimes it’s so challenging going to church in another language and just relying on our team Bible studies, for that community.
We met 7 new babies while we were home – they were all so cute! I spent as much time as I could holding onto Adeline, since I know she’ll be so much bigger by the time we get home! However, I don’t have much to show for it. I was terrible at taking pictures while we were home – I took NONE! I guess I was just too focused on enjoying my time with everyone! So sorry about that, but I’ve “borrowed” one from Brooke and put it below.
Thanks everyone for making our time at home so wonderful and refreshing! We love you and miss you all so much already!
It was so good to be able to see you too, even if only for a short while. (Hi Chris!) Enjoy your experiences in 2010!
I MISS YOU SO MUCH.PS I LOVE YOU.OLIVIA