Well what an amazing 3 weeks it has been! We just said good-bye to our two foreign exchange students Jocelyn-from Taiwan, and Maria-from Spain. For these two young ladies it was the first time to the United States. They impacted our family in such a huge way, that they will forever be in our hearts. They tried every food that was placed in front of them without any gripes or complaints (that in itself should teach us all a lesson). Some of Jocelyn’s firsts were- cheeseburger and Cracker Jack’s at a baseball game, big breakfast on Saturdays at the Rodriguez family cooked by ours truly “Iron Chef David“, tie-died pancakes by Marisa, and Chili. Maria’s first were Chili, (kudos to Jennifer- my wife is a mean cook) Yogurt with granola, and gourmet potato chips. Jens health food stuff was very popular with both girls. Thank you Jennifer for looking out for our health!!- I do not say often enough- Thanks honey!!! But beyond that, our family prayed for weeks prior to them coming that this would just not be an experience that would come and go, but that we some how, some way would be able to share the love that Christ has so generously given to us. On their first Sunday here, we were able to go to church and let them both experienced what God’s family is all about. Later in the week I was able to share with them the salvation message, all because they asked why we let two strangers in our house to stay with us. God’s people ( that is all people ) are so special, if we would just let down our guard and put down our masks. If we would stop hiding behind these masks and truly get to know people, then we would build meaningful relationships and would see that we are all looking to fill that God shape hole that is in all of us.Our girls , Marisa & Jasmine, had roommates that were beyond fun. They played silly games, played music (Jonas Brothers – I think I was even singing this in my sleep- Thanks Rissy!! ) they read books, and played tag on the beach, while Jennifer and I did a family portrait session. They took in the students, as they were their own sisters. That was awesome to see!!!Last but certainly NOT least was Mother Hen, my honey Jennifer. WOW this woman is an awesome woman. She is the one that got them to the bus stop every morning @ 7:30am. Packed their lunch, made sure they had the things they needed for the day. Made an awesome dinner every night, and some how super naturally still kept our home front running as normal as usual. Not to mention she helped me with two photo shoots. She is a natural when it comes to this, and for that honey I love & thank you for ALL you do for us!!!!!!So with all this being said, the Rodriguez Family did two mission trips, without ever leaving the country. We are so thankful for the opportunity we had, and will definitely do it again.
Later- David (photos to come)
