Happy Birthday, My Dear

Wednesday was my little sister's 16th birthday.  She arrived here in Brazil this morning.  After a nap, we had some friends over, ate spetinhos (meat on a stick) and churros and played a game.   'Twas a nice evening.  

I thank the Lord for you, Sarah.  Happy birthday.

Show & Tell

Do you have any idea how frustrating it is to move pictures around in Blogger?  Very.  You move one photo and all the others move too.  I was going to put a description under each picture, but words also move the pictures.  An hour after beginning the "simple" task of arranging these pictures, I have given up.
So, top three pictures are of the end of the semester English party in Gualdajara.  Next four are cute kids at the International School.  Next is Jeff, Lindsay, and Melody Turner (my neighbors and friends).  The next five pictures are from Sao Joao, a holiday celebrating John the Baptist and the corn harvest.  Next six are random pictures of fun we've had while on vacation.
And I am done with this post.

I Don't Like Spitting.

Ebenezer.

Thus far the Lord has helped me.

But sometimes, 

In the midst of it,

I wonder were God is.

Coming to Brazil was difficult.  I never imagined myself here.  I never really wanted to be here.  But the Lord led me and I followed.  And now I love this part of my life.

But now I'm preparing to leave.  I committed to lead the English program for two years.  It's been two years.  I decided to finish the school year, stay til December.  But...with departure within spitting range, it means I have to admit it's there.  I hate it.  I love the people here.  I love the work here.  But this is a temporary place. 

But then I ask why?

Lord, WHY?

Why did you give me a temporary place?  Why is it time to think about transitioning yet again?  I'm not good with transitions.  I like to stay where I am.  I like to be comfortable.  

Whenever this topic of conversation comes up, I want to cry.  I want to stomp my feet.  I want to throw a fit.

Sometimes I do.

And while I hate even thinking about the fact that I will be leaving my home, my work, and my friends, I know that I can and will say

"Ebenezer".