Going Home

I had a fleeting thought... It might be cool to get stuck in Amsterdam on the way home from Romania. My mind changed over the course of those two weeks I was gone. I wanted to get home and be with my best friend! I missed him so much! Well, be careful what you wish for. My plane, that I almost didn't make, was delayed a little bit leaving Amsterdam. Then coming into the US at Detroit I had to go through customs again. I was the very last person to get on the plane to Louisville... with 5 minutes to spare. I made it home safely. My luggage did not. I already miss the kids and watching movies with Iza and laughing with Rachel. We had a great time and I can't wait to go back! More pictures can be seen here: share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=1AYuGbRs5cMXgQ



Speaking of going home, a very dear friend of our family went "home" last week. Frank was trying to move a tree that fell on a power line during the storm and the tree fell on him. The common thing that was said about him at the funeral was that he lived his life with a quiet passion. Serving others and not wanting any credit for the work that was done. What a great challenge for the rest of us. He was an incredible man. Please keep the Eickholtz family in your prayers.

Romania update numero 2

As you already read... we made it! We are loving the time with Rach and Iza. We haven't had hot water since we've been here, but we're surviving : ) I am feeling perfectly fine now, it was just the first day that was a little rough for me.

I absolutely love the Isaiah center. The 6 kids that Rachel has there are precious and the house is so neat. Before we came, it was so hard to imagine the environment that they are being brought up in with their families. The extreme poverty, the abuse, the abandonment. They are children that deserve to be given a chance and to be loved just like you and me. Rachel has done, and is doing an incredible job here. It's obvious that God has brought her here for a great purpose. It's total reliance on God and his sovereignty. Trusting that He will carry out His plan. It's amazing. (fyi -for anyone who is not aware of what Rachel is doing here check out her website http://www.fmnministries.org/)

This week at the center a team from England came to spend time with the kids. They played games, danced (oh how they LOVE to dance!) had them play instruments, had a parade around the property, painted with their feet... they were so much fun! And the kids loved it! We brought one of the girls from the center home with us one night. Little Simona. She is sooo cute. I told her I was going to bring her home in my carry-on bag. Hope Nate doesn't mind!

We got to be here for Iza's first day of school. She was a little nervous before going, but when we picked her up she was so excited and had a great day. "The best student in the class" her teacher said. Such a smart girl.

I'll have more to write when I get home and lots of pictures. Pray for Sue Linn, she is traveling back tomorrow morning!

Just a few pictures, out of lots and lots, for your viewing pleasure...

-Ruthie

We watched Hannah Montana in 3D!!!

Outside of a cathedral in Oradea

Inside the cathedral, built in the 1700's. It was breathtaking!

Flan at Capitoleum

Iza's first day of school! The teacher said she was the best student in her class. We were so proud.

Alex playing on his excercise ball.

Party day!

Quick Update on Ruthie and Mom in Romania.

I've talked w. the ladies a couple of times this week and it's been a bit of a rollercoaster ride. They made it to Romania w. no problem, except no luggage. After receiving the precious cargo, Ruthie ended up getting sick. She's a quicker healer and was back on the trail of loving kids and having a great time w. Rach and being Tushi Ruthie to Iza. I know time flies but hopefully it will slow down and they can soak in every moment.
And i know you were wondering, but dad and i are getting a long alright. Between the steaks, pizza and football kicking off, we've had some stuff to take our minds off missing our beautiful brides. But we sure can't wait for them to come home!