We Are F-A-M-I-L-Y

Almost two weeks ago already, we said goodbye to my mother-in-law and father-in-law who had been visiting for a week.  Their trip was a long time in the making...  Starting back in October, their plans to come to Haiti were foiled by a long list of obligations and events, including the passing of my MIL's mother on January 9--the day before they were supposed to fly into Cap Haitien from Florida.

This was only the second time we've had family visit us here.  It was wonderful to reconnect and be loved on; to get the in-person hugs and encouragement we've been craving.  We got to hear details about Grandma's funeral and stories and updates about each of our ten nieces and nephews, our siblings, and many other family members and friends.  We introduced them to Celine and the new baby goats.  They showered the girls with attention and affection.  We laughed together, prayed together, and enjoyed meals (American and Haitian) together.  

Mom came with the girls and me to school and helped with chapel on Friday and an art project on Monday. Dad worked on various repairs and maintenance work around campus and our house.  And, he helped Mark diagnose the problem with our truck (broken shock and strut) so that we could order the replacement parts.  

It was so fun to introduce them to our friends and show them around our campus, the village where we live, and the city just down the road. 

 Saturday, we spent the day at the beach, relaxing and playing in the ocean.  We even got to rent a kayak and do some snorkeling!

Papa says he's made for tropical climates.  He wasn't missing the Illinois snow one bit.

The water was SO clear that day!

Sisters in the Surf.  I'm not sure if it was the crashing wave or bright sun that made Elli shut her eyes...

I see those tiny footprints in the sand and moments later they're washed away. It reminds me that every day is precious. Before I know it, those tiny prints will be bigger than mine!

Two Daughters and Their Daddies

This guy always cracks me up.  He never takes himself too seriously.

I think Naomy was putting in her lunch order...

We'll be counting the days until we see you again, Amma & Papa!  Take our love home with you to Illinois.

Family and friends, we miss you and pray for you always!

Romans 8:38-39 "For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."