September 12, 2005

• We've indeed had a busy couple of weeks. Our new schedule is now in full swing, classes have begun and it seems we are in constant motion.

  
  

  A week ago, Saturday, we had the pleasure of opening our home to Evelin for her birthday celebration. Birthdays are done differently here than in the States. Everyone throws their own birthday bash, cooks up a storm, invites friends and family over, and enjoys fellowship all day long. It was fun to be a part of the traditional Estonian preparation time. Evelin taught me how to make Estonian potato salad, which has become one of my favorite foods since coming here. We sliced up tomatoes, cucumbers, kielbasa, and all kinds of goodies. No birthday in Estonia would be complete without 'Kringel', their version of a birthday cake ... add a good cup of coffee and .. yum! She enjoyed receiving lots of flowers, chocolate and a few other wonderful gifts from those who love her like we do. To top off her birthday with whipped cream and a cherry, Kayli introduced her and Pille to a couple of episodes of 'Green Acres'. They've all been singing the theme song and quoting it ever since ... please pray for me!

  
  

       

  
  

  Last week we started our new series of classes ...  and had our first 'Far Above Rubies' class for the young women. We talked about how rubies are the most valuable gem and how God says that a virtuous woman has a worth '...far above rubies'. The girls then enjoyed taking some 'ruby' beads and making bracelets and necklaces as a reminder that their goal should always be to young women of character and Godliness.

  
  

    

  
  

  We took a quick trip to Tallinn on Friday ... enjoyed visiting with the Banks family, as always, they are such a treat to be around. Drew, who is a very grown up 5 year old, always makes me laugh. Had a long list of 'work' things to talk about and get the ball rolling on ... just no better way to do that than over a hot cup of tea and some warm fellowship.

  
  

  Also picked up a freezer that we bought from Clint and Debbie Hale, the missionaries who are moving back to the States. We are now owners of a miniature chest freezer. Still don't know where it's permanent home will be but am excited about having some extra freezer space for the winter. I could have just done like they did in Siberia and put stuff out on my porch to freeze but I'm thinking this might be a little better.

  
  

  Yesterday we had only a small group for worship ... lots of folks out sick. We did have some great time singing though ... in the morning and last evening. Had a few in last night to sing and fellowship. Enjoyed a pot of vegetable soup, hot bread and some scrumptious homemade apple cake, compliments of Merlin and Heidi. We even got in some singing for a while ... even above the sounds of drills and banging from our neighbors who are remodeling below us right now.

  
  

  So ... our week now begins again. Lots to do !!

  
  

  May God bless you as you begin your week and as you serve Him.

  
  

   

  • 5:52 am
  • 2 Comments