a lot can change.

A little over a year ago (September 2006) I was in Orlando going through 2 weeks of training and orientation to the organization. Along with about 40 other trainees, I was a part of "Training Camp #29" (TC 29).

This past weekend 7 of us who are in the Dallas area got together for a little TC 29 Reunion.

A lot can happen in a year. Sitting in the room and catching up with these friends reminded me of that. We didn't even get to talk about ALL the things that have gone on in our lives in the past year, but even with just bits and pieces you realize so much can take place in just a year...

• one woman is now teaching ESL to international students at the local university
• two guys are preparing to complete schooling to do language work
• two of the people in our group met (at TC), got engaged, got married and are now settled into a new home and new jobs
• one couple is expecting the birth of their first child

When I think about going "away" for a year I sometimes find that I do get sad and even jealous.

Things are going to happen in the lives of my friends and family ... and I won't be "here" (wherever "here" is :) ) to experience it like everyone else. In a way it sometimes seems like deep down inside I'm shocked that people's lives would go on without me around to be witness to it! (HAHAHAH!!! -- pathetic, I know.) I'm sad that I won't get be with friends as they move into their new houses, have babies, get married, celebrate birthdays, go through hard times... and all the little day-to-day stuff that happens that brings color into our lives.

BUT... I'm thankful for things like cell phones, web cams, Facebook, Skype, and all the things that help to make the miles seem less far apart.

I'm realizing that my time in Dallas is quickly running out. The other night I was having a hard time going to sleep wondering ... "How productive have I been during my time here?"

How do I "measure" my productivity when my basic goals for this time in Dallas included getting more orientation to the world of Bible translation, going through some training, spending time with family and building relationships?

I'm a task-oriented person. I like checking off boxes on my to-do list. I'm going to leave Dallas with a few identifiable "tasks" completed... but, I do know that my time here has been so rich with experiences and I've been incredibly blessed through people.

I guess I'm learning new ways of defining "productivity" or "success" and learning that sometimes the most valuable things really are "immeasurable."

The past couple of days have helped me recognize this.

During my time here I've met with different people who are involved in various aspects in the work of helping others have access to God's Word in their heart language. It's been amazing seeing all the ways that people are involved in this! And, I've been absolutely inspired seeing the passion people have for God, His Word and for the people they've had the opportunity to work alongside.

Yesterday I met with someone and we talked about the ways that STORIES are used in helping people learn the truths of God's Word. Today I met with another colleague and we talked about the ways that language communities are learning how to USE the translated Scriptures in their personal lives, families, churches and communities.

How do I measure the value of time spent with people like this? It has been a great privilege to meet with so many here in Dallas who have had part in work all around the world. It's been great for me to learn from them.

And... I just love hearing the ways God allows us to take part in this work! I love meeting people who are excited about the things they get to do. It energizes me. It reminds me of how grateful I am to participate also.

So... my time in Dallas... immeasurably rich :)

3 years ago today, my nephew was born!

Happy Birthday, Xander!!!