Good Times With Good Friends

Our friends, Jumbo and Kriek are in town from Africa. Let me tell you, I love these two. Their lives are a living example of what it means to serve and love the way Christ does. I have seen them do this for the last 3 years that I have known them. I have ministered alongside them. I have stayed in their home. I have seen the service and sacrifices they make when no one is watching.

They walked with us through our adoption, literally. We imposed on them as our days continued beyond what we expected in completing the process. They took us into their home. They drove us to South Africa as we entered the last stage of the process. They fed us food. They loved on our kids. Really, what else can I say.

Spending time with them is always a treat. So, we could not let their visit pass without a party. Not only do I love them, but I love the people that have embraced this calling to Africa as their own. I can't even believe the relationships that God has brought into my life over the last 4 years as we journey together as a group of people that love the pastors, the children and Gogos of Bhalekane carepoint. We have laughed together, cried together, seen unimaginable pain in others' lives together, and rejoiced in seeing God work in the lives of a people that we deeply love. You see, when you experience what we have experienced together, there is a bond like no other. We don't have to see each other every day for that bond to remain strong.

Last night was a time to come together as a group and just be us. We could catch up on our lives. We laughed a lot. We shared our hearts. We missed those who could not make it, and we especially felt an emptiness as we talked about David Hames. His absence was obvious. We could all feel it. We have been feeling it for over 2 weeks, but to come together and feel it as a group is both comforting and painful. We continue to pray for David, Renee, and the boys. We are still asking God for a miracle, but trusting Him regardless of the outcome.

Here are some pics from our time together:

The Cressmans are so amazing to welcome us to their home

Jumbo, The McCoys, and Sarah Jackson

A whole crew of people

Some of the girls

Kriek opening the gifts

The highlight by far of the night was the head massager that Sue got for Jumbo and Kriek. We all had to try it out. It was luxuriously relaxing!!Jumbo wasn't so sure about it until he had a turn. Then, he was sold on it!!

We love you, Jumbo and Kriek!