Saturday, our little Olga turned six. Carolyn outdid herself in throwing Olga a party on our patio. It was on the small side, with only about eight friends, but each child got to make their own pizza for lunch and then there were games and cake and what party would be complete without the perfunctory piñata? Olga really enjoyed it.

Sunday was my birthday and I thought it was going to be low key until all of the kids sung Happy Birthday to me before church. I could’ve done without them counting all the way up to 50, but it was sweet. I actually got to preach the message that morning as well and then settled into my chair to watch the UConn women destroy Louisville in basketball. By 5:30, a bunch of us started to gather over at Tim & Patty’s for the Super Bowl and beaucoup food (you can tell I was in a Saints frame of mind). I left at half time, because then the girls had their own party for me, complete with pizza, cake and presents that they bought with their own money. That was really special; although by the time it was over I probably should’ve been looking for some bromoseltzer.

The parties continued this morning as we all gathered at David and Regina’s for our weekly staff meeting and for a going away breakfast in our honor. Once again, more incredible food and we received a number of kind tributes that corresponded with symbolic gifts. The gift that really got us weepy was a photo album filled with cards that the staff and all of the kids in children’s church had written for us.

I hope the send off wasn’t too premature, but I did tell the kids in church that if everything goes well with the adoption this week, we would probably leave Casa this coming Sunday. We are actually planning to stay in hotel close to the Embassy for a few nights due to the a number of appointments we will have there and then head back to Little Rock in the middle of the week. That all depends on getting Olga’s new birth certificate today, but our runner just called asking for some information so I am believing that means that they are working on it right now. Please keep praying that a.) We do get her birth certificate today, b.) It is correct and c.) That Hector is able to return safely with it either tonight or tomorrow morning.

Thanks everyone. I pray you have a blessed day in Jesus.

Jack