We've been in Pennsylvania for two weeks now! Crazy how time flies. We've really enjoyed being "home". Paul has spent much time with my pastor at the church I grew up in. He's been a minister of God's grace for over 50 years at the same church! He has been a great source of encouragement and support to Paul. We have been visiting many family and friends in the area and it's been wonderful to recount God's goodness to our team and the work in Thailand.
We took a two day family camping trip the earlier part of this week. It was complete with a thunder storm in the night, fishing and an old railway tunnel from the late 1800s. Our tent never leaked and the kids never woke during the storm and we were protected from the bears and other wildlife. It was a wonderful time and the kids loved it. I will try to get some pictures on here before too long.
Our adjustment seems to be going smoothly. I love being here but I will be happy to be settled in Orlando! Lack of routine and all that has it's affect on me...and on the children, but God is good to give us His grace. I do continue to miss Thailand. There are lots of folks there right now for the summer helping out and it all sounds so fun and exciting. One group is working specifically with the campus ministry and so it hurts that we can't be there to be part of all that is happening. I've missed the close community we had there and I feel almost dead to that world right now. (That sounds really dramatic, doesn't it?!) I just mean that we left and now others have filled those missing places (and that is good and healthy) but there's just a huge hole in my heart. I correspond with our friends there and have received recent news that Fon will not be coming to America as a nanny afterall. That also saddens me though I trust God and His will for her...I was looking forward to seeing her sooner rather than later!
I'm also dreading (a little bit) the transition to yet a new city and place and that fear is manifesting itself as well. I am excited but I also realize we're starting all over again and it is a little overwhelming thinking of long days with small children and no community!!! I know I shouldn't worry, I know God has already shown Himself faithful. I tell you readers out there this so you can pray for me and us as we settle there. I really am not complaining! I realized yesterday as I was talking to Paul about "stuff" that I have a lot of fear right now and I know that this fear is not of the Lord, so please pray that I wouldn't be afraid and that I would fully trust Christ.
So, that is where I am right now concerning our transition to American life. I know so many of you are praying for us, please don't stop! And, please don't stop praying for the Thais. Check out the sidebar for new blogs (the short termers that are in Thailand).
5 comments:
Crystal, I'm glad to hear things are going well. We will continue to pray about all the things you mentioned. I still hope you will call sometime when you get a spare moment...no rush...I know what it is like to be running around trying to accomplish so much in a short time with visiting. We think of you often.
I will pray for you, Crystal, that God will provide what you need in each new place. I'm seeing (through my friends) that the missionary life involves much transition, which I think can be hard on young families in particular. You are in my prayers!
Hi Friend! I got your card yesterday and thank you for sending it to me- what a day brightener! I will write (email and perhaps maybe even a real letter to the awesome Aquarius Court address...)soon. Love to you all!
Hi Crystal, I will be praying for you and the family. I admire your strength in the Lord and I know that there are people waiting for you in Orlando. As painful as the times are He wants to share you with others that need you in their lives...and others are in need to be where you were. You know. I am just excited you all are back and I can't wait to read what is in store for your futures! Hope to see you soon. Be careful on the drive back.
Praying for your family, Crystal. Specifically praying that God will provide good friends and community in Orlando for you. Kristen Walker
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