January has provided our family with the rare feeling of frozen noses, the unique crunch of snow colder than zero degrees Fahrenheit, and the delicious warmth of central heating! We have also had the fun of shoveling snow several times, though we’ve learned sometimes a broom works better than a shovel. Melodie enjoyed wearing snow pants and sledding.

It’s great to be back in the United States of America. I’m not sure Norman would agree with that statement, but, for me, it’s true. I enjoy being here, and I enjoy being in Japan. They are just totally different! I have truly enjoyed being able to spend extra time with my mom as she adjusts to life without her husband after 51 (and three quarters) years. (My dad was an accountant and had us kids qualify how old we were: “I’m 10 and 3/4 years old.”) Please continue to pray for my mom (Eileen Strutz) as she makes many decisions in coming months. She is a strong Christian who understands God’s plan and His wisdom, so accepting this death is easier for her than for those without this understanding. However, the day-to-day reality can be difficult at times, and it seems like every appliance in the house has decided to break down! (The plumber is here replacing the leaky water heater as I write.)

Norman and the kids spent two and a half weeks in Alabama before and over Christmas, in order to see his family and to visit a couple supporting churches there. We were reunited shortly after Christmas, and there was much rejoicing! We’ve visited two other supporting churches since they’ve been back, and we are always blessed to see thriving groups of local believers, practicing what they preach and living for the Lord.

We plan to relocate to Waverly, IA, around January 23, using a mission house as our new base from which to travel. My mother will be joining us on the adventure, and we look forward to making new memories with her.