Visiting with MK's

Waxhaw, NC is the home of the JAARS center.  JAARS stands for Jungle Aviation and Radio Service.  In short, it is a place that supports Bible Translation all over the world.  Because of this, a lot of missionaries make their way through Waxhaw.  I was able to reconnect with a lot of Missionary Kids (MKs) while we were in Waxhaw for two weeks.

First, when I found out that Emma and Kelsey were going to be together in Columbia, SC, I just knew I had to make a trip to see them.  Mel and I hopped in the car one Sunday morning and drove 2 hours to Kelsey's grandmother's house.  We went out for lunch where we had amazing deep-fried sushi (only in the South, right?)  Then, we drove around Columbia trying to find the Paul Mitchell Cosmetology school that Kelsey would begin attending in the fall.  After a lot of wrong turns and the GPS lying repeatedly, we found it and took some pictures.

We also ended up walking around a super Walmart, which I have to say is a VERY odd experience.  Less than 2 months ago, we were all meeting weekly in PNG, where there were no 1st world type stores.  So, to be in a mega superstore like Walmart with this ladies was strange....so very strange.  I guess it is hard to explain why....but it just didn't feel right.

It was so sad to say Good-Bye again to Emma and Kelsey because once again you just never know when paths will cross again. But, I am confident that I will see them soon, somehow.

Towards the end of our time in Waxhaw, NC, I got to spend an evening with MORE MK's.  So much fun.  In this picture below: Standing- Hannah, Leslie and Emily (These three girls were a part of my Bible Study group in PNG).  Sitting- Carmin and Abby (these girls were in the grade above the girls I worked with but both played soccer the year I coached and I went on their senior trip with them).

We had a great time at Brix and ordered lots of different pizzas to share and sample. :)  Really great night! LOTS, and I mean, LOTS of laughs!