Mr. Scott...Grandfather...

I want to say goodbye to my former father-in-law, and my daughter's grandfather. He celebrated his 97th birthday on August 5th. He was an amazing man, he had a mind for business, I guess that is why he was an accountant for Exxon. Of course there were times of conflict...and he could frustrate beyond words. He loved his grand daughters very much...that I know for sure. In the past 5 years, Mr. Scott and I had resolved many issues and had become friends. Even though I was no longer a part of the family, officially, he always considered me part of his family.

Mr. Scott is with the Lord...I know this for fact. He made a profession of faith in Jesus Christ as his Lord and Saviour. So it is really not good bye...

Wedding season...

Summer is the main season for weddings in Kosova, especially
during the month of August when Europe takes a holiday. It is a time of constant parades of cars, with typical Albanian music, often being played from the back of a "pick up" type vehicle. Of course, there are often 20-30 vehicles also playing music and honking their horns.

I have not attended a wedding yet, but here is what I understand that happens. There is a celebration at the bride's home, men in one area and the women in another. Lots of music, food, and dancing. There is a similar celebration at the groom's home, again the men and women in separate areas. The groom's family decides when to make the procession to the bride's home to pick her up. Once the bride arrives at the groom's home, there may still be more dancing, but basically the wedding is over. The bride now lives with the groom's family.

There is not a time of "official" marriage vows, etc.
A certificate of marriage is obtained from the municipality, and the wedding is held when the groom's family decides.
Weddings are a time of celebration and dancing. Lots of dancing...

I have a new Son-in-Law...

Sam and Elissa were married on July 7, and my heart rejoices for them. They had been dating for a year now, and now have begun a new chapter in both of their lives. During my trips back to the US, I had time to visit with Sam and his family. I also had time to see Sam and Elissa together, and I am sure that the love they have for each other is precious and genuine.

Please join me in praying for Sam and Elissa, that their love for each other and the Lord will grow stronger every day. Congratulations! Urime!