A Wonderful Reunion

We had such a special day today. A young couple, Brian & Claudia, who were students in the Grace Youth Ministry in which I served several years ago, now live in Tucson. Brian is also the son of one of the pastors of Grace who I worked for several years as well. :) Well, we couldn't be here and not get together with them, so that was the plan for the day.

Brian & Claudia are part of a new church work, Epic Church and we went to church with them this morning. We met Brian at their home and rode over with him because Claudia is part of the worship team so she had to be there early. It was a great experience, bringing back memories for Randy & I when we were part of a young church that met in a school. The excitement that was part of the service and the members was catching. :) Their pastor did a good job of sharing God's message and, of course, the worship was great. It was fun seeing Claudia singing again. She was a dynamic part of the youth ministry's worship team and to see her using her gifts in this way was a joy.

After church, it was time for lunch! We were all starving. We ended up at Chipotle! Randy & I hadn't been to a Chipotle in three years, probably. There just haven't been any where we've been. So, three of us stuffed ourselves with those huge burritos and Claudia had tacos. We had fun catching up with each other's lives and reminiscing about youth ministry and such. They also took us to a bakery/cafe they love so we could have dessert. Like eating those burritos weren't enough food!! But, we persevered and joined them in cookies, brownies and coffee. Yum!

Before we knew it, it was 2:30pm!! Brian and Claudia had to get home to rest up for their small group this evening that was meeting at their home. Actually, Claudia said she needed to clean! :) It was such a great afternoon (have I used the word "great" enough in this post???) and such a gift to be able to see how Brian & Claudia have grown into such fantastic adults. We really enjoyed our time together. After big hugs and a couple of pictures, we said good-bye. But, we're hoping to see them again next week at church. Plus, Brian's sister, Vanessa, will be visiting, so we'll be able to see her, too! Very cool.

Being able to reconnect with people is THE best thing about this life we're living. If we weren't traveling, we never would have had the opportunity to hook up with Brian & Claudia. And what a shame that would have been. We have some special reunions coming up, too. Can't wait for those.

Hope your Sunday was a good one. We're going exploring with Russ & Pat tomorrow. First thing on the agenda is breakfast at Cracker Barrel. Randy's starting to go through withdrawal! :)

Until the next time . . .