I just recently returned from a short trip to the U.S. after my first 5 months in Africa. Here are some random thoughts and highlights.

-Grandchildren are awesome. Everyone ought to have them. It was great to see 2 year old Jailyn and her new sister Hailey who was born in Sept after I left.

-Celebration Church is still the best church in the world. (HPC Swaziland comes in a close second)  I have gotten to see some of the EG services here but there’s nothing like the live experience AND getting to see my Celebration family.

-Diet Coke tastes better in Africa. I’m sure its due to some toxic chemical they are allowed to use here that was outlawed years ago in the U.S.

-They still drive on the right side of the road in America….and I was just getting used to driving on the left. I also had to remember to stop driving “like an African” . There are definitely 2 distinct driving styles on these 2 continents.

- You have to pump your own gas in America. I had become accustomed to having the gas pumped,  oil checked and windshield washed. I asked the guy to check the air in the tires the other day and he crawled under and checked the spare tire too!!!

-EVERYBODY loves President Obama. We should all pray for him.

-Almost everywhere in America has air conditioning. I think I went for at least 4 or 5 days without sweating.

- Did I mention Starbucks coffee? That was the very first stop when we arrived in Atlanta. First really good cup of coffee I had since leaving the States.  

So all in all it was just an incredible trip but I must say I am happy to be back in Africa. Because this is where God has called me it is surely home now. There’s just so much to do here and I am ready to dive into 2009 headfirst. Theres something about being in the perfect will of God, knowing that you are in the middle of His plan and purpose for your life that just brings a peace and joy that cannot be described. For any of you who are not there (and you know who you are…) I highly recommend it.

Sure living in Africa has its challenges and trials but thats just life, I don’t think it matters where you live. When life seems to be getting a little rough, I challenge all of you to remember what the apostle Paul had to say:

Phil 4:11-13
11 I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13 I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
NIV

Grace, peace and blessings to all.