So Many Choices...

We arrived back in Orange County, home from two weeks in Germany,  just about 3 days ago.  Right now I feel as though it has been much longer.  We both suffer from jet lag and the overwhelming sense that many tasks need our immediate attention.   Our gratefulness for each person who prayed for us while we traveled goes beyond words.  Vielen Dank.

Our time at the school and with the Personnel Office confirmed for us that we belong at BFA.  The high school, middle school, and elementary school have amazing teachers who encourage and develop their students while holding them accountable and providing them with loving Christian examples.  The enthusiasm and energy of the students invigorates everyone.

Chapel at BFA

The maintenance department at BFA needs Smitty as the three man team becomes a one man team at the end of the year.  However, he was also told to "hold working on computers" lightly!  I had four departments where I could serve.  Which leads us to "so many choices...".  English language learning pulls the high school students who don't speak English for more intensive small group instruction in English.  The Resource department pulls students from study hall to modify and clarify class work.  The Discovery Program provides intensive services for students with learning disabilities.  The elementary school, located about three kilometers from town, started a bilingual program last year in first grade, moved to include second grade this year, will include third grade next year.  I could, conceivably teach there as well.

The final choice for both of us comes from Personnel.  We also paid our deposit to the school so that they could begin a housing search for us.  The choice of our next residence rests in the hands of others.  Thankfully, God knows the beginning from the end.  His choices are perfect.

Local railroad and station in Kandern

Our second week in Germany proved fruitful in that we have a better understanding of how much we need to be conversational in German and gave us a perspective of the breadth of the German culture.  Contrasts abound, but Germans do tend to like rules, neatness, and soft voices!

Please pray for us as we

        build partnerships with folks here at home for both prayer and financial support

        study German language with more motivation

        make choices about what stays and what goes when we move to Germany next summer