Goodbyes to New Friends

Well, we just wrapped up our three week SPLICE session in Palmer Lake, CO.  Saying goodbye on Friday was surprisingly difficult, considering that we had all only know each other for 19 days.  But during that time, we really bonded as a community...from common interests and desires, shared goals, similar stories.  We met people going to every continent in the name of Jesus, to do everything from work at orphanages to dental ministry.  It was amazing to get to know people and walk alongside them as we learned about conflict management, stress, Sabbath rest, and grief.

One great thing about our time at MTI was that not only did WE get to enjoy meeting new people, but everyone was so sweet and kind to our kids, too.  Maggie and Ben both had some good buddies by the end of the time:

"Mr. Dustin" and Nigel...Maggie would specifically request Mr. Dustin to sit by her at every meal.  Why?  I mean, he's a great guy and all, but the real draw was the Angry Birds app on his IPad....

 Ira is a missionary in central Mexico.  Very nice guy but pretty stoic...until Ben walks into the room.  Ben and Ira became good buddies.  They especially liked hanging out at 5:30 every morning. :)

 Miss Carol, Maggie's teacher.  Maggie went to "school" every day from 8:30-12 and 1:30-4.  She had a blast and loved her teacher.

Aunt Allyssa (another one, in case our faithful readers are confused).  She is going to work with the Roma people in Romania.  And ALL the kids (and parents) were tremendously blessed by her heart for children.  She was great!

One night, we had a little fire in the firepit (you flip a switch and it turns on, sort of cheating) and made smores.  Here's Maggie watching me toast her first ever toasted marshmallows.

 Success!

 Meanwhile, Ben enjoyed his graham cracker.

One of our last days there, a rainbow showed up in the sky, always a good reminder of God's promises.  We are blessed to have know the other 27 adults in our group, and we look forward to seeing them again.  Someday.