This month we bid farewell to the last group of Elders who preceded us in Georgia. They were greenies struggling with the language when we arrived, they now return home as mission leaders. We also say goodbye to the first Sister missionaries called to serve in Georgia. I can hardly express what a meaningful part of our Georgian life these fantastic young people have been. We will truly miss them, as well as all who have gone before.
Speaking of which, we were sadly stripped of a face-to-face goodbye with these wonderful senior missionaries/surrogate grandparents when they had to leave unexpectedly in August. But their early departure was probably for the best, because we couldn't have borne losing all these precious souls at once.
Perhaps pointedly, this month also stands as the midpoint of our family's time in Georgia. I find myself constantly marking the moments and reflecting on how best to proceed for the remainder of our time. I'm so grateful for the unusual advantage of being able to live here for nearly 4 years, more than most in our position. We have really gotten settled into this life, although it took a while; we have been stretched and schooled by the variety of new experiences. Here's to another expansive two years in Georgia!
I love that you have such great missionaries in that area. The elder who was my student last year leaves on Wed for the MTC and then headed to Armenia Yerevan mission. I talked with him today and he will be a wonderful addition to the missionary force in that corner of the world. His name is Sam Grammer, just in case you ever come across him.
ReplyDeleteYour family has been a home away from home for those missionaries! As a previous mom of full-time missionaries, I know there are families of the missionaries that are grateful to you big time.
ReplyDelete