Parliament Comes for Tea

Early in the week, a member of parliament came for tea. Jordan had written to him with some concerns/suggestions about an issue. He did not expect the Minister of Parliament to schedule a tea at his house for further discussion! I greeted the gentleman and headed out of the living room to give them privacy, but Jordan asked me to stay. The issue at hand was not resolved in any way; however, the Lord flipped the meeting into a spiritual one. Jordan briefly told my father’s story using the photo book I had brought for Latvia. He is a Christian and was touched deeply by it. I played “Exodus” for him and then remembered I had a pint of maple syrup that I couldn’t take to Latvia because we were only taking carry-on bags. So he left with my father’s book, WV maple syrup and a big smile on his face. A couple days later I received a handwritten thank you letter in which he expressed his eagerness to read the book. Never imagined that one of my Ireland souvenirs would be a letter from and connection with Parliament! God has soooo many surprises up His big sleeve…

Jordan and Naomi’s  family has become so dear to my heart. I love their family culture and the way they serve and love others. Naomi totally and hopelessly spoiled me. She is so thoughtful and a gifted hostess. Early in the morning, Jordan generally takes a walk or bike ride and picks fresh blackberries for our morning oatmeal. The children practice their instruments, piano and/or harp/percussion, almost every day. I loved playing duets with them and teaching them some improvisation tricks as well. Anna-Joy likes to rollerblade, climb trees and to take care of her bunny. Nathanael likes to ride his bike and play basketball. The family devotions happen after supper and were a highlight for me. Jordan is so gifted in making those times meaningful.

I enjoyed bringing them things they can’t easily acquire in Ireland, like Hidden Valley Ranch dressing, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, and just for fun, some homemade fudge and sweet rolls from our Norwegian baker friend in WV.

I took walks in the morning as well. I love seeing the cows, Joey the donkey, lots of sheep, windmills, hedges and old stone buildings. I came upon one stone building in a cow pasture that was part of a WWII Royal Air Force housing. The stay with them and their love showered out to me was like a dream – something I will n

ot forget – even though a shadow of the “headwind” hovered.