we’re baaaack/a special shout-out

So I’m back.  I thoroughly enjoyed not worrying about checking my email or if my iPod was charged up for the day.  I feel like these last few weeks I was able to concentrate a lot more on things I would like to work on personally. It was a sweet time for myself and also for the 3 of our teams that are staying in one apartment building in Istanbul.  I am glad to be back connected with all of you in time for Christmas but I am also very thankful for the time we had away from technology.  Our team has also challenged itself to look at other things that may be holding us back besides internet that we can give up for a season and see what the Lord teaches us through it.

I love you all and I will leave you with this….

The other night during our nightly team feedback we wrote poems about our day…and I guess I was just inspired to write Leize a little ditty on her birthday…so here goes!

To my Leize Marie on your special day,

I wish I could hop on over to Israel so we could play.

It’s sad your squad is still on a technology ban,

But here’s my chance to tell you I’m your biggest fan.

I hope your team gives you lots of treats,

Since it’s your day I would even consider sharing some of my meat.

I hope you know just how much I care,

I don’t even mind that you lie and say you have red hair.

I miss you bunches, don’t you know?

It’s so cold here (and I wish I had my puffy jacket that you told me not to bring) they say it’ll even snow.

I know you won’t read this until after the final Christmas play,

But know that I wasn’t gonna let anything- not even a tech ban- ruin your special day!

I love you Ole Sleize and I’m so glad we both came,

On this great adventure- to miss out would’ve been a shame!