Goodbyes do not get easier.

Hard to start the day with goodbye hugs. The cloudy gloomy weather matches my mood this morning but a part of me overflows with gratitude.

• Thankful that my children know and love our family members.
• Thankful that our families support our ministry.
• Thankful for the visits from my folks and Cory's mom.
• Thankful for the small everyday moments like washing dishes together as well as the bigger projects and shared memories.
• Thankful for the four generations of my family who's lives changed with visits to Haiti and interacting with the Lord's people here.
• Thankful for our support team who make if possible for us to continue to live and work in Haiti and the representatives of our team who though effort and commitment come to visit us.
• Thankful for the wonderful Haitians who help us host and showcase the Lord's work to visitors.

Yes, the goodbyes hurt and it takes us a while to adjust to life without family close by every year. But the positives and joy of welcoming family and friends for visits still out weigh the pain.

The fragility of life cannot be hidden in Haiti. To frequently we hear of unexpected deaths to remind us that tomorrow is not promised or guaranteed to anyone. 

While we do not dwell on this part of life it does serve as a powerful reminder not to take for granted the time we are given to interact and make memories with the people in our lives. 

So His Hand's Team 2012, thank you for the wonderful visit.  Thank you for the hard work and good laughs. Thank you for the memories. Let us know if you wish to return for another visit. 

May the Lord continue to use you and bless you. Kris, Cory, Eli and Anna