Decision, Decisions, Decisions...

This week I took Lissie wedding gown shopping. She quickly grasped that what seemed like an endless array of choices were available to her. Even just the selection of headpieces was enough to make Lissie's head spin!

Lissie felt especially overwhelmed since she'd only just returned to America days earlier. Her life in Central Asia had been much simpler.

Lissie's angst didn't last long, though. Prayer calmed her spirit and after a short time spent amongst the lace and frills in the bridal shop, she was able to relax and enjoy...

But wait. I've gotten ahead of myself.

First I need to share with our readers the story of the night Lissie arrived home after nine months of teaching overseas only to find the surprise of her life. Read all about it in my next post!

(Photo credits for this post go to Lissie's 13-year-old sister, Natasha)

Two Years Already?

Aaron and Anna,

We wish you God's richest blessings as you move into your third year of marriage. I think the two of you would like this quote found by your sister, Daria, in Joshua Harris' Boy Meets Girl: Say Hello to Courtship:

"A marriage that isn't built around the Cross will be devoid of grace, mercy, and humility that come when both husband and wife recognize their need for a savior."

May your marriage always imitate Christ's sacrificial love. Through the power of the Holy Spirit at work in you, may you build your marriage around the cross and strive to out-serve one another!

With much love,
Dad and Mom

Courtship: My Wedding Dress is Here!

Today I got a phone call from our pastor's wife. She said, "We have a large box that has your name on it at our house!! Your wedding dress is here!!" I was not expecting such a wonderful surprise! I had ordered the dress a couple weeks ago, and sent it to their house because I thought we would be in Russia when it arrived. Thankfully the dress got here early! I picked up the brown box with it's precious contents and hurried home with it. Jaynie, Cassandra, Tatiana, Speedy and Princess Bink all gathered around as I cut the tape and opened the box.

No wedding dress pictures yet though! That's for the big day in March. It's hanging in the kitchen and Princess Bink keeps asking if she can wear it for her wedding. I told her she is welcome to it when the time comes. I will say the dress is everything I've ever dreamed of for my special day.

~ Tessa