A Special Birthday

Last week, was my birthday...our car broke down about 3 miles from home, our water was shut off, a lightning storm knocked out our internet, a pipe behind the washing machine burst, and our ATM card wouldn't work...and it was still the best week since we arrived!

How could this be, you ask?! On Friday, Maria Joana and Josiane came in to spend the day with us. We baked cookies, went for a walk, and did an aerobics class together. Then, we returned to CLM to celebrate my birthday. All the children were anxiously waiting by the front door when we arrived. They ran out with hugs, kisses, and shouts to close my eyes so they could lead me in to show me their surprises. I was pulled into the dining room by about a dozen children who told me I could open my eyes. The walls were decorated with posters, streamers, and special birthday messages. They had been working all week in the art room to surprise me! They had a huge cake with my name spelled with "m&m's" and a pile of notes and hand-wrapped gifts next to the table. I quickly realized that many of them had taken their own "treasures" from their room to wrap for me! Others had made handwoven potholders, art projects, and paintings--I wish you could have seen their eyes sparkle with pride as I thanked them and told them how much I loved each one! Afterwards, Mary asked who would like to pray for me and I think every one of them raised their hand! Listening to their heartfelt prayers moved me to tears. It was a special evening that I will never forget.

Yes...our car has been fixed, the water is back on, the internet is working again, Mike was able to fix the pipe, and we can get money with our ATM card again...but the precious time I spent with the children brought far more peace and joy than all the other things combined. Once again, God confirmed in me the significance of the eternal over the temporal.

Thanks again for all of your prayers. We miss you!