Finally

Finally, after 6 weeks of not blogging, I'm able to post again! I seriously considered not writing a blog anymore since I haven't been consistent with my posts, but I had too many "ideas" rolling around in my head that I decided otherwise. I just need to buckle down with my writing and pray that you'll stay with me!

Finally, I have grown weary of traveling. In 3 1/2 years I have visited 16 different countries, some more than once! I don't say that to boast, it's just the life we've been living as expats. But we've come to the realization that as wonderful as it's been, we don't find joy in it anymore. Every city becomes just like the next one, every beach the same as the last. So our lifestyle of self-indulgent vacationing has come to an end. Starting in 2010 we hope to only travel on missionary type journeys, serving others. I'm not sure where that will take us, but we are definitely looking forward to it!

Finally, my youngest is well. Abbey was sent home from school at the beginning of last week and went downhill rapidly. Her tests came back negative for flu of any kind, and now she is on the road to recovery!

Finally, I am within 10 lessons of finishing my writing course. My goal is to finish by December 1st, my official deadline date, but in order to do that I have to submit 2 lessons a week. I'm praying that I can remain steadfast towards this goal so that I can finish on time and finish strong. We'll see how it goes....

Finally, I met my neighbor. That, my friends, is a post all by itself. Check back in a day or two and I'll share that unique story with you!

Finally, 2009 is almost over and I couldn't be happier! In all honesty, it has been one of my toughest years to date. Adjusting to a new culture, studying non-stop (driving, German, writing, bible study), and the overwhelming loneliness I've had to deal with has really taken it's toll. But so many things are coming to an end in 2009, that can only mean that a new beginning is on the way! And what a better beginning than a new year? I have high hopes and expectations for 2010 and I can't wait to see what new things God will do!

Finally, I'm going to join the rest of the world on Facebook. Yes, I've avoided it long enough and have decided to take the plunge. Look for my friend request coming to you soon!

Finally, I'm posting pictures of my amazing trip to Greece! My time walking through Paul's second missionary journey with one of my dearest friends was truly a gift from God. It brought the Bible to life for me and I know that it will always have a special place in my heart. My family and I enjoyed the warm weather and being together after 10 days apart and I'm grateful we were able to have our time in Greece. I'm posting a few here today and will post the rest on Facebook in a few days -- be sure to check them out! Enjoy....

Above: A prison unearthed in Philippi where they believe Paul was held after removing the demon that possessed the girl from Delphi (Acts 16:16-24)

Above: A Turkish-style church in Thessaloniki

The Parthenon - Athens

Above: Mars Hill, also called the Areopagus, where Paul gave one of the most powerful messages of the gospel (Acts 17:19-34) - located just below the Parthenon

Above: Kay and Brenda in Corinth, with the ruins of the Temple of Apollo in the background

Above: Kay teaching Chapters 4-22 of the book of Revelation on the isle of Patmos, where John wrote it! Amazingly, she got through all those chapters in just under 2 hours!

Finally, I'll bring this post to an end. It was great to get back in touch with you. I'll look forward to meeting you back here again soon - I promise!!