We recently got to go to Thailand for a conference for all of the SEND Russia missionaries. It's a direct flight south from Irkutsk (the next city to the west of us) and only one hour difference in time zones... but it felt like a dream to be transported from winter and snow to sunshine and warmth! It was an amazing time of spiritual food, cross-cultural training, fellowship with other believers, and refreshment! The kids were a part of a wonderful program,too, They loved each minute and connected with the other missionary kids there. They are stil singing songs and sharing truths they learned.
...And a very special gift was that we were able to stay with my dear friend, Kim, and her family in Bangkok after the conference for few days. I first met Kim on a summer project to Siberia in 1999 and then we lived together in Kyzyl (in Tuva in Siberia) for a school year in 2001-2. They hosted a delicious Thanksgiving dinner with a real organic turkey. Even though we missed being with family, it was so sweet for our hearts to celebrate this holiday with other Americans that we love so much!
Now we are very much back to life here in Siberia. And as much as we enjoyed Thailand, it's good to be back! It wouldn't feel like Christmas without snow! ;) Leif left for a week the day after we returned for a TNT training time in Chita where he led one of the sessions.
Also, the day after we returned, Anneka was in a performance (one that we didn't know about until a couple of hours before!)
... and that same day, Ella had a Pie Festival (also a surprise to us!) Ike and I quickly whipped something up and took it to her kindergarten. =)
The next day she had a Mother's Day performance. I got to be in a few of the things up front- dancing with Ella, and playing a couple of funny games with moms and kids.
They had a special tea time afterwards.
We've had a busy advent season with our regular life and ministry, our family's extra daily special activities to focus on Jesus and enjoy one another, and extra practices for all 3 kids' holiday programs. Anneka has drama practices every day and will have six performances!! I'm getting a lot of exercise toting these two around on the sled. I'm thanking God for lots of nice snow for the ease of transport!
Leif and I got to go on a 24-hour anniversary getaway. Our kids each spent a special night with different friends/families. (what a gift to us!) They loved it, and we did, too! Here's a picture of Leif singing me my 13th anniversary song. He writes me a new song every year. I love this guy!!!
2 comments:
How nice to get a break from the snow and cold! It looks like you had a great trip! It seems so funny to me that they don't let you know about the performances until the last minute! Whenever we have anything it's on the schedule for months in advance and we get about 10 reminders/updates about it. :) Happy Anniversary!
What a lovely post. It's wonderful to see the kids and Ella's performance. I also love the way Leif is so loving and creative. Hugs to you all and kisses, too. Grand Mama Irene
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