We’ve been in the states for 2.5 weeks. Flew into O’Hare on August 5th. Braegan and I were in a wedding in Chicago on August 8th. It was a bit surreal to fly right in for such a big party, but it was a blast. I was the matron of honor and Braegan was a flower girl. She loved her job. Her favorite part was probably dancing and being with the wedding party. At the wedding there were four different countries and 20 different states represented, people came from all over to enjoy the big day!
Chicago was followed by 10 days in Peoria and visiting with Jeff’s family. Jeff spent a lot of time fishing. Braegan enjoyed her time in Grandma Lynn’s playroom, feeding and walking Abby (dog), and playing with her cousins.
From Peoria we made a 2 day stop in Carmel, Indiana to catch up with Joe and Shannon (directors of SRI). Braegan enjoyed playing in their backyard and finding cicada shells!
Continuing on in Indiana, we are now in Ft. Wayne for 10 days visiting with my family. Braegan is loving her time with her Aunt Lydia and teasing Oliver (dog).
Occasionally we have to escape outside to warm up from the AC. It’s crazy how our bodies work and adjust in different temperatures.
Braegan was so excited to visit a little farm and see turkeys and chickens. It’s probably the closest to home she’s been since we arrived. She loves imitating their sounds.
Another highlight of our time in Ft. Wayne is that Monchy and Adia are in the middle of a 2 week trip to the USA!! This is their first time ever leaving the DR. They are visiting the Midwest (Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois). It’s so great to get to share with them during this time.
Jeff and I will be sharing with the youth at Pine Hills Church on Tuesday and Wednesday evening. We will be talking about our call to ministry and how God has been working in and through us during our time in the DR.
Our next stop will be San Diego, CA to visit with some friends from college and enjoy the beaches. Jeff is looking forward to spearfishing, his new favorite hobby. From California we will head to the Atlanta, Georgia to visit with friends.
A commonly asked question while we are here is, “Does it feel weird to be back?” Yes, it does. It’s bittersweet at times. We love our life in the DR: the people, pace of life, climate, country, and so much more. We miss things about the states: family, friends, and conveniences. Braegan talks about San Juan, and it makes my heart happy because that is home to her. It’s exciting to travel around and see different people who have visited with SRI in the last 2 years, they seem confused to see us here.
So far we are all continuing to stay healthy, so thanks for your continued prayers. Prayers for safety and rest as our time in the states continues are appreciated. We are organizing the documents necessary for the renewal of our Visas in November.