Long Overdue Thanks

We were overwhelmed by the love and support we received before we left for China. We’ve never before had such a busy social calendar! We are so grateful for all of the wonderful friends and family we have. Here’s a little highlight of our final weeks in the US:

My church choir at Calvin Presbyterian was very kind to honor our family at an end of the season pot-luck. Thanks for the lovely paper-weight, tote bag and card! It was a pleasure to sing with you all and do so under the direction of such fine musicians, Sida and Wesley Roberts.

Our home church, the Highland Vineyard (www.churchdonedifferently.com) has been very supportive in our mission to China. They have loved our family and have been such an encouragement to us. Thanks Highland Vineyard for your very generous gift, love and prayers!

My co-workers and families from Down Syndrome of Louisville (www.downsyndromeoflouisville.org) held a pot-luck dinner in our family’s honor and we were blown away by the kindness shown to us that evening. It was really hard to say goodbye to all of you; you are greatly missed!! Thanks also for the giant card, lovely poem/picture, beautiful flowers and yummy cake!

Our parents put together a very nice going away party for us. They put a lot of time and effort into planning, setting up and making sure everyone enjoyed themselves all while helping us move furniture around and babysitting many hours while we packed. Thanks for your love and support. Thanks also to those that came and gave us such sweet gifts. We miss you!

My choral group, The Oldham County Singers honored me with a nice reception and 2 dozen beautiful roses! Thanks fellow singers! I was humbled that you would do that for me. Monday evening rehearsals were my only “me” time during the week and I really miss it! If you love to sing, join the singers on Monday nights at the Oldham County Arts Center at 7:00; you’ll be glad you did.

Emily’s friend, Molly and her family threw Emily a going away party. They went all out – from “pin the musical notes on Hannah Montana’s mouth, to swimming, silly string, water balloons, and volleyball!! Emily had a blast and it provided wonderful memories for her with her “BFF’s”. Thanks Dean family for your very kind gesture; it meant the world to us to see Emily so happy during a very sad week in her life.

Benjamin’s primary caretaker at his orphanage in Hong Kong (she now lives in Memphis), Rachel came to visit along with her husband, Kyle and son, Levi. We would have been happy just visiting with them, but they put themselves to work, moving furniture, organizing items for the garage sale, and watching the kids. We NEVER would have gotten everything done in time without them. Thanks so much Rachel, Kyle, and Levi for your generous hearts and friendship!