One More Thing...

Almost forgot to mention that today marks a big anniversary in my life.

On November 17, 1986 my bedraggled family and I limped into St. Charles, MO wondering what on earth God was thinking.

We'd just resigned from a staff position at a Christian school and had nowhere to go. We were confused and angry at the turn our lives had taken. We were embarassed that 2 college graduates with 2 toddlers and 7 years of marriage behind us could have so (meant NO) few options.

We'd sacrificed everything to be in ministry and had nothing to show for it; not even good memories of blessings we'd received through selfless service. We owned nothing and had no prospects.

Finally, out of desperation, we contacted my Dad in St. Louis to ask for advice. In his generosity, Dad and Milly jumped into their van, rented a u-haul trailer and came to help us out and bring us back with them.

I remember riding along with my Dad along Hwy 70 heading east. We passed a billboard advertising a tourist attraction and I asked, "What's the name of the town we're moving to?"

Thankfully, Dad had a condo he'd bought for an investment and he allowed us to move in there until we could get on our feet. It was really humbling, yet meaningful since that condo was the nicest place we'd lived in thus far.

During our time here in St. Louis, I've experienced so many blessings. Our lives have completely changed. Now as I look back, my anger and confusion has transformed to gratitude to recognize how we were being led to be here.

I think I drive my Dad crazy because I've make some kind of gratitude statement on this day every year. So let me push him a tad further to the 'happy home.'

Thanks, Dad and Milly, for all you've done for us and who you are in our lives.

We love you very much.