October

A whole month since we last posted...how to sum it up?

I'll mention a few notable changes we are adjusting to: First, I (Kristi) got another job! I am now working part-time for World Vision in their microfinance division. WV has an office just 10 minutes from Pasadena, so I get the privilege of continuing to work in microfinance along with others who are passionate about serving the poor--and I get to work in 'cubicle-land'. I continue to work part-time with World Relief's microfinance program in Burundi, Turame, and will visit Burundi in November. So, now I have TWO part-time jobs, equaling one full-time job, which is an adjustment. :P (I'm not complaining, mind you, but it IS an adjustment!)

The second major change this month is that Kristi's grandmother passed away this week. A harder adjustment than the job, needless to say. I'm thankful that I got to see her just days before she died, and also thankful that she is free from pain now. At least I have the confidence that I will see her again in heaven, but it is still hard missing her now. Bob and I visited Illinois in June, and she showed us her flower garden and picked strawberries with us in the yard. She is one of the few people I know who lived her whole life in a very small town...a town that I always loved to visit because of that wonderful friendly small-town feel. The town and our family will not be the same without her!

Another new thing this fall is Bob's new internship at Christ Presbyterian Church. We have truly enjoyed getting to know this wonderful group of people and worshipping with them. Bob is leading the Sunday prayer meeting this week and preaching next week...it definitely keeps him busy!

Some good news we received this week--Bob passed his last ordination exam! We are very grateful for that...now he can focus on his internship and upcoming chaplaincy internship. One step at a time...

So, we have a lot to be grateful for. A fitting perspective, perhaps, for Thanksgiving season? :)