Goodbyes Are Not For Forever...

I haven't been staying away intentionally, and, let me tell you, it's good to be back here again.  This morning I stayed away from the laptop, internet, and music, and spent some time nose deep in books and journalling, with a pot of green tea and a blanket to keep me company.  It was good to slow down, to finally finish a book in only five days as opposed to two months, and to dig into God's Word again.

Jake and I have had many opportunities to share about Brazil in the past couple of weeks, and I've been thinking and reflecting on some of the things God taught me while there.  TEAM gave us each a 'Returning Home' devotional workbook, and I've felt encouraged by some of the in-depth questions as it urges me to look to God during this transition.

I'm feeling a bit emotional as I look over these pictures and remember being with the beautiful, smiling people as we said 'goodbyes'.

These are some of the students from Jake's Sunday School class, including Pastor Marluzio on the right.  Our good friends Polly and Igor are on the left, beside Polly's mom (the very end), and they have taken over the teaching of his class.  We got to take this picture right after a blessed time of goodbyes the night before we left.  Afterwards, Pastor Marluzio, his two boys, Polly & Igor, and the Lopes family took us out for a little lanche, and we enjoyed getting a last taste of Brazilian burgers with some wonderful new and lifelong friends!

Tim and Tammy, the missionaries we were living with.  It was hard to say goodbye, as it feels like we just met and were just starting to get to know each other.  It was such a blessing to meet this wonderful, godly couple, and we were touched by the passion God has placed in their lives to see Brazilians spread the Gospel to the ends of the earth.  

Saying goodbye to two of the three doggies we fell in love with, Nicky and Nina.  

Saying goodbye from the airplane, our last daylight glimpse of Brazil...for now.

Goodbyes are not forever, and although we don't know what God has planned for our future, we're grateful to have met these wonderful people and visit this beautiful country once more!

Love,
Ashleigh