Backyard Visitors

One of Micah's favorite things to see is when sheep and goats come grazing in our backyard. Now that the weather is getting nicer, this has become a more frequent event. I personally enjoy watching how the shepherd herds all of them...it is quite amazing and serves as a great reminder that "the LORD is my shepherd." I'm so thankful that He is there to guide me and protect me!

Village Visit

Recently I had the opportunity to go visit my friend at her home in her village, about 30 minutes outside the city. It was so fun to see where she lives and was a lot different than I had pictured in my head. I pictured the village being much more crowded, but actually found it to be one of the most peaceful places I've been in Jordan. It was also a LOT more green than the city, which I always enjoy. I had a fun day with the girls and was so thankful for Paul taking care of Micah all day.

Round 2

We recently held another medical clinic at the Community Center I work at in the refugee camp. A small team from the States came in to help, and it went really well. We saw over 200 patients that day and were able to build some new relationships amongst the people in the community. We are hoping some new home visits will arise from the successful turnout!

Some children waiting to see the doctors.

Most of the medical team.

Enjoying our Arabic 7up after a hard days work

"Picnic Lunch"

A few weeks ago Paul was taking care of Micah and told him that they were going to have a "picnic lunch" that day. Bascially, Paul had decided to take Micah's highchair out on our porch to eat. Micah LOVED it and now asks to have a "picnic lunch" almost daily. Thankfully, the weather has been a bit nicer, so we have been able to do this more often. Maybe we will go on an actual picnic one day soon!!

The other day we were having our lunch outside and we left the kitchen door open. I went inside to get something and out of the corner of my eye noticed something moving on our countertop. I looked over and immediately screamed as one of the ugly stray cats had snuck inside and was eating our bread. I'm really not a cat-lover anyway, but these cats are everywhere and are so annoying. There meows sound like crying babies. I'm not going to lie, I am a bit terrified of them. Micah is scared of them too, so I'm sure it will take some time to get used to them being people's pets once we are back in the States.

Here are a few pictures from a "picnic lunch"...and I promise I gave him some healthy things to eat besides cheetos :)

Even though he won't keep them on very long, he loves his sunglasses. He likes to wear them on top of his head "like Mommy." It is too funny.

Medical Clinic

Recently I had the opportunity to help out in a nearby village at their medical clinic. It was held at a small school within the village and was a great cultural experience for sure. We started off our day by meeting our friend at her bakery. We had to wait for her for about 30 minutes, so we enjoyed watching the ladies make all the Arabic food. She finally showed up and directed us to the school for the clinic.

Here is the food the ladies were preparing.

The workers allowed us to jump in and attempt to help.

The village view from the school.

Some precious school girls welcoming us.

Very typical...the men sitting in front being served coffee or tea. They actually presented us with an entire ceremony before the medical day began.

Our little nursing corner.

31 Weeks...

...and counting. Here is finally a picture of my ever growing belly (for those of you that have asked!). Not much longer until she is here :)

Micah attempting to kiss "baby sister".

Back in Rome

We left Venice and headed back to Rome for the last two nights of our trip. We had one more full day planned, and that was to see the Vatican. It was really windy and rainy all day, so we were glad we had saved this day for an inside tour. However, every other tourist had decided to join us, which made for some long lines.

Once we finally began our tour, none of us were disappointed with the beautiful artwork that the Vatican had to offer. Of course, our favorites were Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel ceiling and the Last Judgment-both of which are absolutely amazing.

Sadly, our trip ended the next morning and we all headed back to "reality". It is never fun saying bye to family, but we were encouraged knowing that it won't be long until we see them again in the States. It was an awesome trip where many memories were made that will last forever. So long Italy-we hope to return again one day :)

Our tour guide at the Vatican

There were gorgeous ceilings with such intricate detail all throughout.

There was an entire section with different maps of Italy that was really interesting.
Micah snoozing while we toured the Vatican :)

Here are a few pictures in the Sistine Chapel that we had to sneak to take.

Out to conquer the rain.

Venice

Our second day in Venice was freezing, but amazing none the less! The wind chill was about 38 degrees, but we did our best to endure it. We had wanted to take a gondola ride, but all agreed to pass because of the frigid temperatures. Instead, we enjoyed watching others taking their ride :)

The Rialto Bridge (the oldest in Venice) that crosses the Grand Canal

A view from the top of the Rialto Bridge

Taking a break in a local cafe to get warm and drink hot chocolate.

One of my new favorite pics of Micah...Paul captured this at the perfect time :)

Masks are everywhere in Venice as they have a "Venetian Carnival" annually.

Out for the afternoon.

By this time, we all were pretty exhausted.