Until we meet again....

Tonight, we had a goodbye dinner for David and Erin with their children, Emma, Josiah and Hudson. They arrived to Calgary in mid-June in time for David's brother Peter's wedding to Kate. Their other brother Mark from Nebraska came up for the celebration as well. It was so neat to see all the James siblings together again. With David now living in Russia and Mark in Nebraska it is special times when all the siblings (7 in total) can come together in one place.

For me, it has been encouraging to see what David and Erin had to face in Moscow - such cultural differences from Canada aside from the language barrier - and how far they have come in this past year. Going not knowing any Russian people and each day bringing a new challenge or an cultural experience for them. Learning how to manage to take them and 3 children on the Moscow public transportation from Point A to Point B. When they left in May, they had begun having regular Friday night bible studies with other couples who were Russian. It has been a great way to practice their Russian speaking skills. Their daughter went to her first birthday party and seem to communicate despite the language barrier.

This is another awesome example of how God provides for us. I have definitely seen that with me this past year. Professional, wow what a difference in location has made for me. I have just learned so much in the field of coding. I am sure my coding skills have been improved because of these chances to attend the few coding workshops this past year. Personally, it has been wonderful deepening my relationships with my friends and family members too. Have made good friends at work and 3 of them live within walking distance of my new home. Having the opportunity to come up to own a home is simply amazing. It still stuns me that I have actually done it. Now getting a roommate - He has provided for me as it will help with future bills.

Emma, Josiah and Hudson - it was great getting to know you all over again. I had a lot of fun too. I look forward reading more of your adventures in Moscow over the next year. You are special to me and so many others too. Thank you for touching my life - it has given me plenty more smiles and great memories too.

David and Erin - Thank you for sharing your stories and examples of the Russian culture through your photos and writings. It has meant alot. It has been wonderful spending time with you both during this past summer. Loved our "sisters night" Erin - glad that you won too. We will miss you on those nights especially. Just like your children - thank you for touching my life and for your friendship. You are all special and are always in my thoughts.

I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers especially over the next couple of days as you fly back to Moscow. Wishing you safe travel to London and hope you have a good visit with your Aunt Erika before the final leg of your trip. For anyone reading this blog - please keep David, Erin, Emma, Josiah and Hudson in your prayers as they travel back to Moscow especially with the recent restrictions in air travel. Thanks.

Hey David - enjoy a cup of Timmy's on me once you get back to Moscow (hee hee)