As far as we are concerned, there is little excitement in the house when Daddy is gone, but one thing for sure is that we realize more deeply what he really means to all of us.  When the main character in our daily lives is suddenly overseas for a little while, and I am forced to stop revolving around him, I find myself spinning crazily for a little.  But soon I right myself and realize that the true center of our life, Jesus Christ, is still right there where he always is, guiding me and keeping me.  PD is like the insulation around Him that warms me every day, giving tangible reality to our security in God.   When he leaves, it feels scary and cold for a little, until I simply mover closer to Jesus, and rest there until my dear one returns.   I am so glad he can go and be a blessing to the missionaries and people in Honduras.  He took the time before he left to prepare some little gifts for his daughters, and made them each a card.  He placed them on the mantel the night before he left, with orders to wait until the next morning to open them.  He knew they would not see him like they usually do when they wake up, so this was something for them to look forward to.  They were up early of course.  Esther was tickled with her large pieces of drawing paper and four-colored pen.  She immediately had a sign about her baked goods for sale.   Jaime was equally tickled with her extra big crayons.  The cards were precious, and almost made mama cry.  I knew PD was very busy the day before he left, and it touched me that he took the time to do this for his girlies.  Even Megan got a jug of apple juice, her favorite! 

Our first day went pretty well, until suppertime came and then things felt really lonely.  Perhaps God knew we needed a little humor just then.  I asked Jaime to please ask the blessing.  She agreed heartily and we all bowed our heads.  There was a moment of silence, and then I looked up to see a priceless expression on her sweet face.  It was one of surprised amusement with a tinge of embarrassment as she said, “I almost said, ‘Giddyap’!”  We all howled with laughter and immediately felt better.  I am positive God has a wonderful sense of humor as often as He blesses us with opportunities to use ours. 

We are excited about Grandama’s visit coming up in a few days, Lord willing.  It will help to pass the time for us.   We wouldn’t mind the prayers of anyone who reads this and feels led to remember us to God.  We need stamina, creativity, and cheerful spirits in the days ahead.  And remember PD, too, as he helps finish up the clinic and Honduras and does some scouting and praying with the rest of his team.  Pray that he could “shelf us” enough to stay focused and be useful there.  I can’t imagine that he could be anything but a blessing to everyone he meets!  How we miss him.