Final Countdown

Yesterday, Sunday, was a rich and wonderful day!  My folks, sisters (3), brothers (2), assorted spouses, and friends gathered at the Church I serve for the baptism of my new little niece, Margaret  aka “M”.  The service was wonderful and the Church held a reception afterwards.  My sister and her husband had to work heartbreakingly hard to bring this little one into the world.   It’s a wonderment why some folks have to work so hard to build a family, while it seems so easy for others. John and I have been at this for 25 years!  But, as I keep learning,  all things unfold in God’s good time. “God moves in mysterious ways.”

Many of the women at Church had been praying for Margaret and Peter through all of their efforts, and, so, it was joy all around.  Afterwards, we went for a celebratory dinner, and on the way their car got rear ended.  No serious injuries, but folks were scared and shaken up.  This old world always has a way of intruding, but, fortunately, we were able to recover our good humor and had a wonderful time.  Later my sister Susan hosted a light supper party for her bible study group and other friends with M. as the guest of honor. They too all felt like they had a share in that little girl.  It was great!

Also at Church, John, John C., Ana, and I were prayed over quite wonderfully by my associate, Fr. Joseph.  He will be the priest in charge while I am gone.  So now, I am officially on sabbatical and parental leave until sometime in January.  The congregation gave us many hugs, good wishes and promises of prayer.  We need those prayers!

 We are doing final details today.  The bunk beds did get set up and Ana has been sleeping on the top bunk for the last several nights.  She likes them!  Whew!  We have been rearranging furniture and trying to clear out the kids’ rooms.  This morning we will do a trial pack and see what is needful.  The weather in Kyiv sounds great, although we do plan to take our raincoats!

 I am looking for two last minute packages to come in...things people are sending that need to go with us.  Hope they get here!  Also, I am still trying to get all of my media gear to function together smoothly.

 Tonight we do our special feast and liturgy of remembrance.  Later, Susan will come over for instructions about how to become an instant parent to our kids.  We will miss them so much.  Last night Ana said before going to bed, “Mom, we need to talk on the phone every hour while you are away.”  We are already missing each other.   God bless.  Jennie 

                                                   We leave tomorrow!