I really shouldn’t have posted that picture of the snake in the schoolhouse because it was a bit premature. Lots of pretty cool things happened before then that I’d like to share with all of you. So forgive me and I promise I will get to explaining that picture soon.
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May I preface these pictures by expressing my gratefulness to God for making it possible for us to share this Christmas with our son and his family. It’s not cheap, as you can imagine, to fly to Africa. But thanks to God, His provision made it possible. Our joy could not be measured. The memories we made (which as you know is a really big deal to me) will be cherished and returned to time and time again-sustaining us in those moments when being apart becomes difficult.
Never underestimate God’s provision – esp. you missionary parents. Just ask God to make a visit possible, then just be prepared for God to do what to you may seem impossible.
FIRST THINGS FIRST!
We celebrated Christmas just a couple of days after the fact but just as soon as we could when we got to Africa. We traveled across the ocean with 5 lockers packed with items our son and daughter-in-law needed and along with their Christmas presents, plus their stockings (that traditionally hang on my mantel). Of course, this was a momentous Christmas because it was my grandson’s first and Nammy was making sure he got his stocking.
This was our first Christmas with our son being in Africa. So, it was interesting to see how it played out. With a newborn grandson celebrating his very first Christmas, it was a given that Nammy & Grandaddy (at least) would represent the family in welcoming him. I know my daughter’s arms were aching to hold their brandnew baby nephew. While they didn’t get to hold him, thanks to a video chat shortly after he was born, they all did get to see him – even his Great Granma Warren and Great Granma Lane.
The next 3 weeks the Jr & the Sr Lanes romped all over this country enjoying a vacation packed with bonding moments and creating memories that we will savor all our lives. In my next post I’ll share some of those memories with you.
In the meantime, you’ll never guess the name of the river we are cruising down!
Apr 04, 2013 @ 16:50:22
Really interesting to hear it from a parents perspective!!!
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Apr 04, 2013 @ 21:35:10
I would love to introduce you guys to my son. He is with the International Mission Board & has flown w Maf several times. They will be traveling to Kampala w/n a day or so and you could connect w them at the Baptist Mission there. Also we have a young lady from our church who is in training at Liberty Univ. to be a missionary pilot. Would love to introduce you to her also.
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Apr 04, 2013 @ 21:44:32
That would be amazing. We are in Canada right now still in the fundraising stages but once we are fully funded we are going to Africa. One of the places we might be going is Kampala, Uganda. Who knows, one day my husband may end up flying your son somewhere! My husband also studied at Liberty Univ. and it is a fabulous school!!! amazing aviation program!
It is amazing that you support your son! My parents are not supportive unfortunately but i am believing that one day they will!!!
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Apr 04, 2013 @ 21:56:14
I just contacted the mom of my young friend who is presently at Liberty to tell her about you. It would be cool if you guys could make contact.
Also I thought you were in Africa already. My son will be moving to S Sudan in the fall so are a bit In transition at present. Their team’s name is Echelon & they are w the Southern Baptist. Part of the team will be remaining in Uganda.
God bless you on your fundraising!
Sent from my iPad
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Apr 04, 2013 @ 21:57:52
Thanks so much. It’s funny because the two places we are going to be sent to is Uganda or South Sudan!! small world!
Does your friends daughter have a blog?
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Apr 04, 2013 @ 22:04:39
Yes here’s the info. echelon: africa http://www.echelon-africa.com/
God bless
Sent from my iPad
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Apr 07, 2013 @ 20:20:48
I don’t know really. But I just sent her your blog address so hopefully she will be contacting you. Her name is Allison Long. Hope you two get connected!
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Apr 04, 2013 @ 22:39:41
Oops that’s my sons info. I think my friends daughter is on Fb. I’ll find out & get back to you.
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