"I Lied"

"I Lied!" That was the statement I made many years ago to my future father-in-law after I made a statement that was in error. I was speaking about something and made a comment that I discovered was incorrect and followed that up by my stark confession. His response was, "Did you mean to lie? Or, did you just make a mistake?" Wow! That gave me something to think about. Actually, it taught me a fundamental truth about life. There are errors we make in our life that are unintentional that have an entirely different impact and import than those things we might do intentionally.

Well, "I didn't lie!" I did make some inaccurate statements about the city we live in. I had said that it was about the same elevation as Spokane - 1900 ft. I was wrong. It's about 1900 meters which makes it closer 5500 feet. Anyway we're on the edge of some majestic mountains that I can't wait for the opportunity to explore. We made a quick visit when we were here in June to a ski and skating area, but it will be fascinating to have a chance to do some more sightseeing.

Fall is a big thing here. The schools have special emphases on cleaning the streets and it really makes a difference. The churches also get into the Fall celebration and have "Harvest Festivals." We keep missing main part of the celebration - bad timing on our part - but here is a photo of how they decorate for the day. Suzanne said that it reminded her of the way the produce is displayed at our Interstate Fair in Spokane. It was rather cute, the pastor's daughter kept going up to the display and eating grapes. She finally picked up an apple and rearranged the fruit so no one would notice. The fruit and vegetables are good and the largest bazaar in the city is just up the road from us. It has the best prices for produce that can be found in the city. People come from hundreds of kilometers away bringing goods to sell and can purchase just about anything you can imagine.

Most of the people we have met have been very helpful and considerate. Of course, there are the other kind in every culture. What we have experienced is that people are willing to give assistance just about anytime we need it. We were on the bus the other day and our stop was next. When the bus slowed, I moved to the door to get off. An elderly lady reached out her hand and to get my attention and shook her head. The bus had made an unscheduled stop. I thanked her for her courtesy in her language and received a surprised look in return. (No, I wasn't able to make a complete sentence. But, I was able to say, "Thank you.)" We've appreciated that, and many other, expressions of graciousness.

We're continually amazed that God has allowed us the privilege of having this adventure. It is something that we continually thank Him for. We look forward to the opportunity to share more pictures, experiences, insights and other things on our return.

God has been good, is good and will continue to manifest His abounding goodness.