Full Circle

My family and I had a relaxing time at the beach following a very busy six weeks with family, friends, and teams.  On our way back I got a call from my sister saying that our father had suddenly passed away.  It was hard to believe that he was gone.  Ben and I were discussing booking a flight home when it dawned on me that I wasn't allowed to leave the country!  We began making some calls to see what we needed to do.  Our dear friends the Steeds had a team visiting at the time but Chris graciously took me to the city the next day to see what we could do to get me home.  Long story short went to Immigration three times and were gone for about 10 hours, but came back with the permission that I needed to fly to the U.S.  I was so relieved and thankful!  God's hand was guiding us each step of the way!  All right after he blessed us with quality family time.

Before I left, the ladies at the Cooking School wanted to have me over to pray and encourage me.  I can't describe what a special, touching time that was!  They all prayed aloud simultaneously for me and my family who was grieving.  I was overwhelmed with their love and care for us!

My sisters and my mom and I were all crying when we met in each others arms at the airport.  My three year old niece was quite confused as to why we were all crying.  It had been over a year since we'd seen each other, they were happy cries!

I grew up being a Daddy's girl.  We went fishing together, to hardware stores, did building/painting projects together.  I loved going shopping with him to buy Christmas presents for my mom.  He always held my hand and made me feel special. Saying that my dad was very protective of me and my sisters would be an understatement!  I wasn't sure I would be able to date until I was 30, he kept changing the age as I got older!  Apparently Ben impressed him, because he finally allowed me to date when I turned 18.  Shortly after Ben and I were married my parents divorced.  Our relationship over the next 15 years changed dramatically as he was married a few times and didn't stay in contact regularly.  He injured his back about 7 years ago and was unable to work.  He was always a hardworking man so being in pain and not able to work sent him into a spiral of depression and poor choices.  Sadly his life ended on August 7th.  While he will be missed, I'm glad that he is not suffering anymore.

During the last few weeks I have seen God work in amazing ways through His people.  Thank you to those of you who prayed for me and my family, prayed about obtaining permission to leave the country and the many friends, family, and churches who generously gave towards my flight and helped with the funeral expenses.  I was so touched to have so many precious friends, some from high school, attend the funeral and offer their condolences.

It was great catching up with these dear friends, I think we spent four hours at Olive Garden :)

It was wonderful to spend time with my family after being apart for so long!  They spoiled me!  We were able to spend quality time together that I will never forget.  I was planning to take a trip to Indy in September so that I could meet my new niece, but was there in the middle of August instead.  My sister, Diane, was 39 weeks at this point.  As my time was nearing it's end, the doctors agreed to induce her labor so that I could meet the baby......and my husband agreed to let me stay for a few more days!  It was a precious time with my sisters as we shared the miracle of birth together.  It was a blessing to be able to meet baby Lilly.  It's so hard knowing that it will be another year or so before I see her again.  I am so very grateful to have had that special time with them!

We even went to some garage sales and found some treasures.

Sweet Addison

Fun at the park with my nieces.

I was able to attend Indy Metro while I was home as well.  It felt so good to be there!  I'm so grateful for their love and support!  I grew up going to church every week and at times took it for granted.  I was overwhelmed with God's presence as we worshiped together.  I've never been so happy or thankful to be at church!

 I also got to attend small group and spend time with some precious ladies and love on a squishy baby!

She even fell asleep on me, so precious!

As much as I loved being in the states with family, at church, driving, shopping, eating at my favorite restaurants, etc., I missed my family!  Ben did an awesome job taking care of the boys and the house for two whole weeks!  They may have eaten a lot of junk food but they didn't go hungry!  I am truly blessed with an amazing husband!  I couldn't wait to get back home!

It was difficult for the first six months for all of us after we moved to Guatemala because we missed our family back in the states.  After Christmas it got easier and we began to feel settled and feel at home.  After being gone for two weeks, I couldn't wait to see my family and my friends. Today was my first day back at the Cooking School and the ladies welcomed me with open arms.  Even though there are many things that are easier, cheaper, etc. in the states, Guatemala feels like home to me, and I am blessed with dear friends that I love.  I had many friends who helped watch, feed, and love my family for me while I was gone.  Thank you!

My trip to the states was bittersweet, I said goodbye to my earthly father and welcomed a new baby into the world.  I was thrilled to see extended family and enjoyed my time away, but missed my family and adopted family in Guatemala, my new home.  I feel so loved and blessed.