Finally Another Post

City of Kavala Greece where Craig is currently serving.

Craig and his companion Elder Merrell

I know....what kind of mother am I?!?!? I really have no plausible explanation for not creating a post on this blog for nearly 8 weeks other than I have no explanation!! I have had good intentions, but every time I sat down to create a post (and I have a tried a time or two) I just could not do it. Sometimes too difficult, sometimes too much to say, other times I just did not know what I wanted to share with others and what I wanted to keep to myself! That said, as mothers I am sure you understand exactly what that means, you've all been there before, wanting to share with others, but you just can't make the words come out. What I can share at this time is my thanks to each of you for remaining loyal to this site, checking despite knowing there would be nothing here, and for your endless support through kind words, gestures, and most importantly prayers for Craig as he begins this marvelous journey! You are all THE BEST!!

Gosh, now where do I begin?!?! Craig is serving in a city in Greece called Kavala. Kavala is a city in Northern Greece with a population of about 63,000. It sits on the Bay of Kavala across from the island of Thasos. In biblical history the Apostle Paul landed in Kavala on his first voyage to Europe. The pictures I have seen are just beautiful. As it sits along the sea, the terrain is abounding with hills which means lots of walking, lots of difficult walking. He doesn't mind though, great exercise he says! Kavala is a relatively new area for the missionaries to serve (it opened to missionaries about 5 months ago) so they have certainly faced their share of adversity. I am in awe of how well these young men handle the criticisms and of angry attempts to drive them away. They just explain to those who ask for an explanation or walk away from those who shout angry or hateful words and continue with the work at hand. They truly act in such a Christ-like manner. I am not sure many of us could deal with some of the situations these young missionaries face in such a calm, and kind manner. Craig has already been arrested once (this by the way is not uncommon), however he and his companion were released once it was determined they had not broken any laws. They have met MANY wonderful people, some who are interested in learning more about the church and the gospel, some who are just interested in being kind to these young men, but these positive experiences far outweigh the bad and as Craig says "makes it all worth it".

Craig is thriving in the mission field and so are we here at home. The blessing Craig receives from his service are abundant. The blessings we have received as the family of a missionary are amazing. Our faith as a family grows each and every day. Craig's faith shines each and every day. The Spirit comforts us when we feel sad or miss him terribly as we know the Spirit comforts Craig when he feels homesick or discouraged. We feel so blessed and so proud. Craig is an awesome young man and we are so honored to share him with the world as he spreads the good news of our Savior Jesus Christ.