October

I remember being a little disappointed at how fast the weather changed from hot and humid to cool and rainy. As I look back on October, though, I am reminded of many many blessings it held. One thing for which I am very thankful is the fact that this was the first October in Japan I didn't spend any time in the hospital for surgery! Praise God!

We had a wonderful time with Terri, a former teacher in Japan, who last visited in 2001. It was so neat to learn from her, and experience Japan together while sharing a bond of teaching here. I'm so glad I'm a part of the family of God!

Speaking of family, I'm so thankful for my "Japan fam" who blessed me with the best birthday dinner and dessert. They know how to celebrate well!

My dad also decided to come for my birthday, and we were able to take a trip together to southern Japan. To be honest, I'm not sure if the trip was more for me or for him, but what a sweet time it was! We took a bullet train all the way to the southern island of Kyushu, making stops along the way in Odawara, Kobe, and Hiroshima, before exploring around Kagoshima and Miyazaki. There were beautiful views throughout, and I was so excited to see some other parts of Japan!

In Odawara, we stopped for just a bit to visit Onoda-san, a dear sister from church, and to see a Japanese fortress. I've been there many times, but this was a first for dad.

We spent one night in Kobe, and had a nice steak dinner and a walk around that port city.

The next day, we enjoyed many different views as we traveled through the mountains. We went through countless mountain tunnels, each one opening up to reveal spectacular views. We made a brief stop to see the city of Hiroshima. There's a lot more we could have seen there, but a couple hours of riding bikes around was what we could fit in.

When we got down to Kagoshima, we were met by some friends there, who took us around to see some local sights and blessed us with a place to stay at their country home. Then, they let us use their truck to explore that part of the island, so dad and I spent the next day and a half driving around the countryside, with no agenda, other than to enjoy the scenery and time together. We shared good conversations and many laughs. "Say shinkansen!"

Frank and Kathy came a few days after my dad left, and we sure enjoyed their time here! What a blessing it was to witness the testimony and baptism of Tomoki out in Shioda! I taught there the day before, and it was so exciting to see the church set up in anticipation for a full church, and full it was! Family and friends from the States, most of the Tokyo and Shioda churches, some neighbors, and several of Tomoki's classmates were all there. To God be the glory, great things He has done!

I appreciated some time to connect with my dear sister-friend, Kinrei, and introduce her to some American style omelets. Food is a great connector across cultures, and it's best when shared!

Family, friends, food, and fantastic views pretty well sums up October, but not without the amazing promise of God's faithfulness! God is still working, even when we're tired, or discouraged, or worn out. Thankful for an encouraging boost of a month. I've been challenged lately to show more gratitude even in the mundane of the day to day. We've got so much to thank Him for! Although that was a little easier to do this month, I want to remember that in all the ups and downs of life!

Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18