As much as we enjoyed seeing family, churches, and friends in America, we are very thankful to be back home in Japan! Despite four months worth of dust covering everything, we were able to settle back in easily. We’re over jetlag now and trying to do some deep cleaning as we figure out our new schedule.

A big prayer request is to be able to locate a place to meet in Minami Aso area. Last Sunday, we met at a member’s house, but that is not a sustainable solution.

This month, I will attend our ABWE ladies’ retreat. I look forward to that! There should be seven us there this year. Included in that number is a short-term intern who is in Japan for three weeks. The week following the retreat, “Angel” will be staying with us to experience life and ministry in Kumamoto. Pray for her and us as we minister together.

Our other news is that we just got a puppy! Melodie and Cameron are so excited, though it’s more work than Melodie anticipated. “Fritz” is a miniature schnauzer and is about four months old. So far, he’s been a great dog for our family. Pictures will be forthcoming…as soon as my camera arrives in the mail. (We shipped a lot of things instead of carrying them across the ocean!)