One of My Best Decisions!

Postponing my return home to Kenya for one month was one of the best decisions I have ever made.  I was supposed to go back November 24th, but after seeing the way that God was moving in my relationship with Daneen, I knew that I should stay through December so that I could spend a couple of weeks with her in Portland and then spend Christmas with her family in Pennsylvania.  At the time I made the decision, it was really difficult.  I had been in America on furlough for 3 1/2 months and really longed to return home to Kenya.  I desperately missed my students, players, friends and family there.  I was eager to get back to a more normal routine, sleep in my own bed and continue the work that God called me to in Africa.

Though I still do long to return to Kenya, I wouldn't trade this month here for anything.  I just arrived in California after two weeks with Daneen in Portland.  Each minute we have together is so valuable as we try to learn better how to love and serve one another.  I have never quite experienced the joy of learning the ins and outs of another person, what makes them tick, what needs they have, and how to best meet those needs.  Each little thing I learn continues to wet my appetite to learn more and more.  I have a desire to know everything about her.  I understand that won't happen in 2 weeks or even 2 years, but will take a lifetime to unravel, which is exciting to me! 

In Portland we spent time ring shopping, doing pre-marital counseling, wedding planning, eating together, going to a Blazers game, seeing Christmas Lights, taking pictures together, praying, visiting friends and many other things, but most of our time was spent talking to one another.  We can, and do, talk about anything and everything; nothing is off limits.  We had a few disagreements throughout the two weeks, but were able to openly share about it and come to a good resolution and a better understanding of one another.  In such a short time, she already feels like my best friend!

I will spend a week at home in California finishing up last minute things, packing for Kenya and celebrating with my family.  On Christmas Eve I will fly to Pennsylvania to spend a week with Daneen and her parents before I fly out to Kenya on December 30th. 

Each day with Daneen just seems to get better and better.  The excitement, passion and emotions are still incredibly strong, but we are also breaking into the normal day to day experiencing life together realm.  After 36 years of living life alone, my world is forever changed!  In His perfect timing, God has brought me someone to share my life with!  No one could have picked out a woman more suited for me than Daneen (though many may have tried). 

I couldn't be more thankful this Christmas season!