HAPPY 2013 MOTHER'S DAY!


I never dreamed a holiday could be so difficult to truly be "happy" in celebrating.  This morning we received an early call from Keith's father notifying us that Mom was having difficulty breathing and the doctors in Mbarara urged him to get her to Kampala (a 4 hour drive) immediately as they suspected pneumonia.  We are thankful that the doctors were able to properly diagnose her and start her on an inhaler.  As they are soon returning to the States on furlough, we are praying for a quick and full recovery for her before they fly out.

Grandma and Grandpa Stensaas with Shane
Then, we began a new chapter in our lives - that of our children leaving the nest. Today was Shane's last day with us, and so our household is in a solemn mood.  It was difficult for all of us to say "good-bye," but of the children, Skyler is having the hardest time.  Savannah and Skyler are both asking the "why-does-he-have-to-go-to-America" question.  Of course, whenever one of them starts crying or asking questions, it releases my waterfall, too.  Needless to say, a day of tears.

The Macris and Petersen Families joined us for lunch today
God has sent many blessings my way to help me through the day. Two fellow missionary ladies, Lisa & Maria, blessed me with sweet notes and gifts.  While I was at soulwinning, my children made sweet Mother's Day notes.  Then several people around the world have let me know they, too, are praying.  What an encouragement these acts of kindness have been!

Shane and Baby Chloe Precious Blessing Ssendege
Please remember to pray for our family, specifically that Shane will keep his heart devoted to God.  As one of our children prayed, "Lord, please protect his heart."

This is one of Shane's closest friends - Charles.

And pray for the rest of us as we adjust to our family puzzle being incomplete.  We are certainly counting the days until Keith's return.

Little sister is already missing big brother.


Comments

  1. Kami GimenezMay 15, 2013 at 7:42 PM

    I am so excited to have come across you blog! We have met a few Stensaas missionaries, so I'm thinking you might be related?
    My heart goes out to you with your son leaving. My oldest son is turning 17 and will be a senior next year. He's already praying about what the Lord would have him to do after high school and it's really tugging on my heart.
    I look forward to getting to know you better through your blog.
    Your Sister in Christ,
    Kami

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Sally StensaasMay 15, 2013 at 8:08 PM

      Kami,
      Yes, we are related. My husband is the oldest son of Bryan & Cheri.I am so blessed by such wonderful in-laws.

      Delete

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