Blessings of Reconnecting

One of the greatest blessings for me this summer, was being able to see some of my close MK (missionary kid) friends from my "Africa days." 

First, was Einstein--a nickname I gave her years ago. 

She came right as I was moving into my new apartment and was a huge help in settling me in. We enjoyed long walks, great talks, and lots of laughter. Both being whimsical and easily carried away by our imaginations, we find ourselves in many great adventures. 

After getting coffee one morning, we discovered a couple prettily-painted pianos downtown and I couldn't resist playing a little tune.

She came during VBS week. I was in the drama every night as a flower shop owner. Take a look at my boutique:

(Didn't the stage crew do a phenomenal job?!)

What a blessing to have Einstein around to help me work on memorizing lines...and fine-tuning my southern accent! 

She has dreads and totally rocks them!!!
Her visit was greatly encouraging.

Toward the end of July, I took a little road trip to Missouri and visited two more MK friends.

Lindsey Jo Stewart was once my neighbor in Ouagadougou and we would spend hours playing together. When I visited her in Knob Noster (I know, great name!), she was two days over-due and having contractions! Yikes! But we managed to have a splendid visit and little Emily didn't make her appearance until after I was gone! How wonderful it was to meet her husband and catch up on life!!! (Unfortunately, I forgot to get a picture.)

Bekabou--as I like to call her--or Beka Joyce to the rest of you, was my last MK friend to see this summer, down in Springfield. Actually, I got to spend time with her and her sisters, which was wonderful. 

The Joyces have always felt like a second family to me. As expected, I had a blast hanging out with these girls. We always have a good time...even if it means 3 trips to Kohls in a two hour time frame! 

It is a tremendous blessing to be able to re-connect with dear friends who know parts of you that no one else does! But an even greater blessing, was the privilege for me to see firsthand how the Lord is working in their hearts and lives. They are not just old friends from Africa, but sisters in Christ.