We experienced the cold and snow as well, something we hadn't gone through in over a year! It was definitely something we had to adjust to again, although it didn't take long. We had the privilege of attending the circuit pioneer meeting at Turnersville Assembly Hall since we missed ours in DR. It was a great program to help us stay strong and firm in the faith as well as continue with joy in our pioneer service.
We also had a nice trip to Philadelphia with our old friends the Saracco's. We walked around the historic sites and went on a mini food tour-enjoying various cheesesteaks throughout the day! It was great! Definitely a day to remember. Soon after that we were getting ready to head down to Nashville, Tennessee to see the rest of our family and friends from our old congregation.
We are currently in Nashville now and its nice to be back seeing everyone again. We, however just returned from Oregon! Yes, Oregon. We spent a week there to attend the wedding of our dear Hannah. She was serving in the DR in Samana for 3 months while we were there. We became family and told her we would attend her wedding whenever that was....well, two years later it happened and we couldn't not attend! We definitely had to be there for her and we had a blast. We got to meet her family and many friends, as well as her, now, husband Jaden. What a great guy! We look forward to spending time with them in the future when we return.
We had the privilege of staying with the Ortiz family while we were there, and we can't say enough good things about them. They were such awesome hosts, showing us different parts of of Portland, taking us to try different foods and see different sights; including a trip up to beautiful Astoria! We ended the trip with a wonderful family worship watching the May broadcast. What a great broadcast it was! We had an Asian themed night of food as everyone brought something to share. It was a great night of physical and spiritual food. It was a great week of spiritual association as well as a fun time sightseeing Portland. Thanks to Hannah and Jaden for the invite, and thanks to Paul, Jen, Kira, and Cameron for the wonderful time we had there. We will definitely be back to visit!
Now that we are back in Nashville we will be concentrating on service and getting the rest of our paperwork finished. Sadly, things are getting harder and harder as far as the visa process in the DR. Not that we can't get it, but, it is getting more difficult and more expensive. As always we are trusting in Jehovah to help us with everything we need to do. He hasn't let us down yet! Our goal is to be back in DR sometime before the end of June, but depending on the visa process it may be longer. Whatever happens, we will do what we can and trust in Jehovah. Like the brother in the broadcast said..."Worrying doesn't accomplish anything"....we're not worried because we know Jehovah is there.
As always, thank you to everyone who supports us, especially with your words of encouragement and love.
Until our next blog post!
p.s. - We post many of our pics and experiences on our Instagram accounts. They are:
@wepamaz
@the.maza.girls
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