THE JOURNEY SO FAR

Tues-Wed: South Texas
Ruth got a chance to visit with her brother Dave and two of her sisters from California. It had been a long time since Ruth and Dave were together and we're really glad she had some sisters willing to help make it possible.

Thurs-Fri: Wheaton, Illinois
While Ruth was flying I was driving to Wheaton. We got to spend some wonderful time with Laura and her friends. We also spent some time with LeRoy and Gwen, two friends from grad school days that live all of two blocks from Laura's dorm. We attended services both evenings with Laura's church and took the time to catch up during the days. She'll be spending the summer in New Jersey with her friend Grace and her family. She'll be working with a florist and hopefully some other part time job. (By the way, if you dial Ruth's US cell phone number you'll be in for a surprise. Laura's got it now. Call Durand's cell if you want to talk to Ruth.)

Sat.-Sun: St. Paul, Minnesota
Saturday morning, bright and early, we headed up to St. Paul and to Emilie's new apartment. It's wonderful. She and Angela from BFA have really made themselves a home for the year. They love to entertain, and we loved being entertained. We had an Easter Brunch, because the church they attend has services in the afternoon. Then Sunday evening we were 7 people for an impromptu Easter meal. I was especially glad to reconnect with Harley Schreck, a prof from Bethel and now family friend. (Emilie lived with Harley's family for a semester.) We're actually hoping to do something together in Europe next year.

It was good to catch up with all our girls. Most of all though, Ruth and I just enjoyed hugging and kissing them and celebrating the way God is taking care of them. All three (four with Matt) are healthy, in good living situations with wonderful friends and working hard at things they love. I suppose leaving under different conditions would have been harder. Thank God for his care.

Mon-Tues: Interstates 94-90-39-74-65 from St. Paul to Birmingham
Now we're headed back to Birmingham to pack up, say goodbye to our family there and then head for the Atlanta airport on Friday. There are still loose ends to care for, but the journey so far has been a year well worth it. Thanks for your prayers and encouragement.

Durand