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I arrived back in Burkina on Monday night, June 22nd. Many people ask how long of a flight it is - I was at the St. Louis airport at 11:00 a.m. on Sunday, June 21st and arrived in Burkina at 3:00 p.m. your time on Monday, June 22nd. My luggage, however, arrived exactly 48 hours later, but in great condition! The other thing many people ask is, "What is it like going back and forth?" Coming to the U.S. from Burkina is always very exciting because, although I know I'll miss the kids, it doesn't seem like I'll be gone very long. However, leaving the U.S. to return to Burkina is an overwhelming mix of 2 extreme emotions which results in bizarre behavior! I'm always so excited about getting back to the work I love and seeing Boris, my other employees, and the kids; yet at the same time, I'm leaving behind my American family, friends, social life, and so many conveniences and luxuries. I'm dangerous in a Target store during the last 2 weeks because it feels like it's my last chance to purchase whatever I'll need - almost a panic that I'll forget something that I could have brought with me. No matter how much I plan and organize ahead of time, the last 2 weeks are always incredibly busy and yet, it's the time when I most want to just be with family and friends. You'd think I'd be better at it after 6 years, but not - it's as if I'm always on the brink of tears, full of excitement, running like crazy to get just one more thing done and wanting to just relax and go to lunch with Mom. So, now that I'm back in Burkina, I've left those extreme emotions behind and am just excited to be here - possibly a little bit in shock each time, but that passes. I'll close with a big prayer request - it seems to be an annual request - they are predicting drought again this year. Drought brings famine, so please pray for rain and the Lord's miraculous provision.
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