Summer Home Visit

I spent the last two weeks at home with my family. I must say that it was one of the best trips home I’ve had; I was able to spend all of my time with them, with Will and Erin too. My sister, close friend and I took a two day trip to the beach, and the rest of the time was spent with the rest of the family at home. (Not to mention Catonsville’s 4^th of July celebrations, which are unbeatable!)

Each time I am with them and the time between visiting home gets longer, I realize how much more I love them. Each person has a special place in my heart, and each relationship with every member is different. I am thankful for the new relationship I feel I have with my sister, Haley. She is 13 years old, and we are able to talk in a different way than we ever have before. What is the most difficult, is seeing her, Eli (my brother), and my niece and

nephew grow up. I was able to be home for Eli’s 11^th birthday party. I know I am missing a large part of their lives, and it is painful. That is the word that most describes it. I don’t doubt that this is where God wants me now, and where He wants us always requires sacrifice, but why does it have to be so challenging? I believe that God, through all these years, has wanted most that I lean only on Him and His strength; not the strength or support of my family. That’s not to say that He doesn’t agree with them supporting me, but rather He is the ultimate strength I need.

I took the past 2 days being back in Guatemala to “readjust” and get myself in order, and today begin working again. There is a group, Bill’s group, (our third board member) coming on Saturday. They will be here for a week, and we will be working on stoves, chicken coops, and taking some of the kids from Hermano Pedro out to lunch. We are looking forward to having them here, and spending time with Bill. He is wonderful to be around because he is extremely passionate about smallchangeforbigchange! God is good.

Please continue to pray for me and the work here; especially for wisdom and peace in my heart. I thank you all always for your support!