Four Years Already?

Yep, we've officially been missionaries in Paraguay for four years now.  Four years since we stepped off that plane into the heart of South America--the land of tropical fruit, exotic flowers, intense heat, and wonderful people.  Okay, they haven't ALL been wonderful, but in general, the people of Paraguay are friendly, open, hospitable, and loving.  We've learned so much from them.

I could go on and on with the ways we've grown up, the things we've learned, the change in our perspective on life, family, God, mission work--you name it.  But that would take up my entire day and more memory than I'm allowed on this blog, so let's just say that we are not the same people we were, and have a photo stroll down memory lane.

Since November, 2008, we've experienced 4 different houses, 3 different towns, 3 major surgeries, a slew of great friends, tons of insane memories, and too many miracles to count.  Our prayer as we celebrate our "anniversary" is that God continues to use us in the work He's doing in this beautiful country full of people He loves.

Fall, 2008 - Going away party in Greenville, SC.  Note that, "We can do this!" look on our faces.

Dec, 2008 - 1 month after we'd arrived, at the church campground.  The look is now,  "I think we can do this, but it sure is hot!"  We'd already started to tan a bit.

2009 - At a Sweet 15 birthday party in at the church in Carapegua.  Breaks my heart to notice how fast our girls have grown.  Must be something in the water!

September, 2010 - Just before our first trip back to the US.  We were so excited about seeing our friends and family soon, and being able to tell people in person, what God was doing.

Easter, 2011 - In the few months since the last photo, Ken had open heart surgery and I broke my femur.  We were early in recovery at this point, but awfully happy to be alive and still in PY.  We had just moved to Itaugua at this point.

October, 2012 - Excited about what God has planned for ministry in Paraguay this next year!