last few days in the U.S.

Tonight at Living Water Tony gave a great message about Lot's wife. The one who got out of Sodom just before sulphur rained down, but who just couldn't stand to leave. She had to turn around, wanting to go back to that place God had just rescued her out of. Remember her? If not, check out Genesis 18-19.

The message was basically an encouragement to go forward towards what God has called us to do, and not to look back--longingly--at the sin or life that God has called us out of. A great reminder to me at a strategic time as we are just about to head back overseas.

Three days from now, May 31, is significant to travelers as the last day of "low season" (aka "cheaper plane tickets season"), and it also happens to be our littlest boy's birthday. So I told Sam we could fly across the ocean for his birthday: why not? In fact, how about an ocean and then a vast portion of Africa? That should provide some awesome views from the air! (I just love looking down at the Sahara). Our return to Cameroon just happens to be perfectly timed on Sam's birthday.

I've spent the last days packing, the process of which always includes plenty of stress but also some time for reflecting while organizing. In this year, we've welcomed our first daughter into the world, spent time studying and learning, and passed some very sweet times with family and friends--including saying goodbye to some for the last time on earth.

So, I'm thankful for this year. Our first "home assignment" in the U.S. is just about over. In parting, here are a few photo glimpses from our time since leaving Texas at the beginning of April.

First, after leaving Dallas, we visited the Missouri Huntleys, met our dear nephew Reid for the first time, and went to Esther's beautiful senior piano recital in Wheaton:

Then on from Illinois to Minnesota, where we enjoyed a late surprise snowstorm (hence the giant snowman who lived but a day or two...), spent great times with family and friends, and were encouraged by an Easter baptism service at Straitgate Church:

Then some brief (but very special) visits with more family and friends in Wisconsin, Illinois and Indiana (on our way from Minnesota to North Carolina)...

Finally, finishing up our time in the States in North Carolina, which due to its strategic location seems to always be our "portal" for coming and going. It certainly is a most beautiful place, out in the mountains, to rest and feel rejuvenated after stressful travels (and we like the people here pretty well too).

Oh, here's a final parting shot from our five-month-old (today!) So happy to have this little sweetheart as part of our lives.