Happy 4th?

Last year, we celebrated July 4th with dear friends from our shepherding group. We all came together at our leaders house for food, swimming, and fireworks. It was such a fun time to be together and just enjoy one another. Here are a couple pictures from last year...

Shepherding group babies (Drew, Harrison, and Karis)

Cameron with his best bud Lydia

I don't think I have to say that there was no celebration or even mention of July 4th here. No fireworks, nothing. It was just another day here and we all went about our business as usual. However, all day, I couldn't shake the feeling of sadness knowing that our shepherding group friends would be gathering together and celebrating once again this year. Of course I don't want them to stop everything while we're gone...instead, life keeps moving on and we are not there. And we are happy that they are able to gather together for great times of fellowship!!

Thankfully, we were able to talk with all of them through the wonders of technology. It was so wonderful to see their faces and hear their voices. It was nice to tell them about our new home and life here in Gent. It was also great to hear about what's going on in their lives. Before we ended our time talking, the group held hands and prayed for us. There are no words to adequately describe what a blessing this group has been to us. They have prayed for us, encouraged us, loved us, and taken care of us. They mean the world to us and we could not be more thankful that God lead us to their group when He did.  

So, we hope everyone had a wonderful time celebrating our freedom with friends and family, and we look forward to the time when we will be able to be part of these celebrations again!