UpDates

Yes, I've been putting off actually writing something since we returned from Canada, mostly due to fatigue but also partly because it still hasn't fully hit me how much can happen in just one weekend.  So I apologize ahead of time for my rambling.  But I did establish this blog with the intent of keeping everyone up-to-date on our lives here in El Paso, so please feel free to pause and grab yourself a snack before reading on :)

Chapter One- Canada

I'll spare the details but our plane ride to Canada turned into a very long road trip.  Which was insane and amusing and brought about moments of pure "WHY OH WHY ARE WE DOING THIS?!" and mezmerizing views that I will never forget.  The stars gleaming in a pure black sky, the rolling green hills of Iowa, and the fabulous border patrol agent with the amazing Eastern European accent who attempted not to laugh when we endeavored to explain why we had literally been in Canada for less then 48 hours when we had driven all the way from El Paso.

It was the beginning of a new life for Stefan and Belinda, a beginning which was truly a privilege to be a part of.  We met so many wonderful new members of our family, family we look forward to getting to know more as the years pass along.  We were able to share time (though sadly much shorter than intended) with our family and friends we've so missed.  By the way, fabulous dancing out there guys!!!!

Chapter Two- Return to the Field

We arrived home Monday late in the evening and Tuesday Shayne and I had made arrangements to go on a new Bible Study which was turned over to us by a dear sister from our congregation.  So after work Shayne and I headed down to the lower valley, only a couple buildings down from another Bible Student that I usually see on Wednesdays (though recently Satan has been sure to throw a number of 'sticks in her spokes' and it has been a bit tough on her)  We were prepared to study with 4 children (3 girls and a boy) who are all hearing but have a deaf aunt and grandmother.  To our surprise (well ok not really as down here very little surprises me anymore as you truly never know what to expect) we were greeted by 7 children.. ranging in the ages of 3-12.  They lead us into the house and quickly brought out the new DVD (Learn from the Great Teacher) that we had given the mom last week.  The kids piled onto one couch, Shayne and I settled into the other and soon the eldest girl was able to get the remote working.  These kids answered and oohed and ahhed and behaved like model Bible Students.  They were so respectful and anxious to learn.

The one little girl said at the one point, "Jesus can always see what we are doing huh?"

Little Jr. chimed in pointing at a small picture of Jesus hanging above their door way and said, "Of course he's right there looking at you!"

She responded, "Nuh uh that's just a picture, Jesus is in heaven!  Right?!"

As we left that evening they all insisted on following us out to our car, Shayne and I felt like the Pied Piper as they marched along waving their little hands goodbye...

Chapter Three- Rain

Yesterday Mum, Kristina, Deb, & I headed out in evening service, starting in the North East.  The skies had blackened during the evening but we expected that it would just roll over as it usually does here in the desert. Now it has been over 110 days of no rain.  We broke the record this year!  Suddenly though the lightening began to crack and drops began to fall.  It didn't last very long, but it was long enough to change the color hues along TransMountain and to perk up the greens in all the palms.  We had a beautiful evening and went to bed tired but happy...

Chapter Three- More Rain, Chihuahuas, & Elvira

Tonight Dad, Mum, & I headed out in evening service again, not before enjoying another little downpour of blessings from Jehovah's rainclouds though.  Mum was so excited her amazing plants were getting some of the true-biz rain they so deserve.  By the way, you should see her plants....never thought you could grow much in the desert.  Apparently you can, if you're my Mum :)

We stopped on Elvira, tonight all four of her female chihuahuas were out and about, including the shortest little gordita one.  I am telling you, I never cared for this breed of dogs in the past, but now that I see how they are really supposed to behave they are among my favorite breeds.  So if you have any cranky yappy chihuahuas up North bring them down to the desert where they will be happy, and quiet, and calmly next to you during a Bible study without causing any fuss what-so-ever.  (hint: I wouldn't complain if she just so happend to want to give me one...I love little miss gordita...ahem and the petite blonde one is pretty adorable as well....ahem just saying...)  Elvira is dealing with alot right now as well... Satan doesn't wait does he.  Always pouncing on our poor students when we just get them going.  She isn't giving up though poor thing.  By the way she is looking to sell some things as money is tight right now, so if anyone is interested in or knows anyone who would be interested in purchasing a very nice, big tv, let me know.  I'd be happy to give you more details.

Dad then stopped on a student out in the same area and hopefully we'll see he and his wife at our meeting Saturday. Dad's giving the Public Discourse Saturday, keep him in your prayers, I know he must be feeling very overwhelmed with so much going on recently.

Chapter Four- Hair

Tomorrow evening I am going to be brave and get hi-lights.  I am such a baby when it comes to cosmetic things.  I know they aren't permanent of course they can always be changed, but I think anything that changes what is looking back at you in a mirror just makes me nervous.  I really trust the dear brother though, who is going to patiently deal with my unruly mane, afterall, his wife looks amazing!  Guess what you guys, I'm turning into a girl!  I had my first professional mani/pedi and now I'm getting hi-lights!  What is becoming of me?!

In Conclusion

You made it all the way to the end of my ramblings..congratulations!  I hope you are all doing well, love you loads, and please wrap your arms around yourself and squeeze tight.  That hug was from me :)