Wonderful Whirlwind ABCs (Part 2)

Here we are, continuing the whirlwind of memories from my time in the States.  Although I had a great time, I am glad to be back!

N - Not Forgetting Thai.  One of my strategies for not forgetting Thai was to review with my Thai kid's Bible story book.  It's great because the stories are familiar and the vocabulary is easy (but there are always new words to be found.)  Quiet coffee shops made for great places to do this.  On one occasion, a woman walking by noticed the letters in my book weren't the same as the letters in hers, and I got to share my story. 

O - Outdoors.  In my free time, I got in as many hikes, bike rides, and outdoor adventures as I could.  Lake Tahoe was beautiful on a sunny afternoon, and it started snowing at Frenchman's lake on my way home after a good hike.
                                              Picturesque!  (Oh wait, that would be letter P.)

Lake Tahoe, beautiful even in the winter.

P - Prayer with the ladies at Community Bible Church.  Each week I looked forward to joining the group that faithfully prays for me and many others.  It was a precious time for all of us.

Q - Quiet time.  Even in the busyness, I really enjoyed having my own room/home to sit in the quietness before the Father. Compared to the 14 sisters I lived with (and loved) in Bangkok, it was quite a change.

Zoro Snowman in China

R - Rock Climbing.  While climbing as much in as I could in Reno, I met some new and old friends.  So fun!

S - Snow.  What's that strange white stuff falling from the sky?  (Especially cold coming from 90 degree Thailand weather.)

T - Thai Students.  It was great to practice a bit of my Thai language while some new Thai friends and I made Thai food dinner for 50 people, quite a bonding experience.

Thai noodles, yumm!

U - Unexpected. While living and working overseas has been an idea in my head for many years, I never thought I would be able to say I've lived in Thailand for 2 1/2 years.  In taking some time to reflect on all God has done in and through my life and the life of my team in Thailand I am humbled and in awe of our amazing Father.

V - Vending.  Praise God that about $500 dollars was raised through the selling of the Thai goods that I brought back.  Thank you to everyone who bought items!  This money will be used to support native Thais in continuing to minister and spread God's Word to others in Thailand.

On a drive somewhere between CA and NV.

W - Worthwhile Wonderful Whirlwind - A super busy two months, made worth it by all the fun memories, great conversations, long drives through beautiful western America, and very special time with special people.

X - eXtraordinary.  While I was away, everything in Bangkok continued (of course.)  My amazing team put on an extraordinary Christmas program, sharing the real meaning of Christmas with 80+ people, many of whom had never heard the life-changing message. Also two weeks in December we had Thais preaching on Sunday!  That's definitely moving in the right direction.  Praise God!

LifePoint Bangkok Christmas Program

Y - You.  Yes, you.  Thank you to each person who made time for coffee, invited me over for dinner, or just said "Hi" at church. Thank you also to those I didn't get to visit in person, hopefully there will be another opportunity!

Z - Zipping on as God leads.  One of the questions I got the most was, "How much longer?"  My only answer is, "It's up to God."  I really enjoy the life he's given me in Thailand, and I currently don't have plans to leave.  However, there's nothing etched in stone that says I will be here for the rest of my life.  For now I'll be taking it a year at a time and continue seeking him for direction everyday.