Our dear friends, Fritz and Frank Buschman, drove up in front of our hotel. Fritz jumped out of the drivers’ seat and grabbed me in a wonderful, embracing hug. These dear friends moved from California to Florida four years ago and I have missed this girlfriend!

Along with several other close girlfriends, Fritz and I have shared much of our lives over the past 30+ years. And I am reminded what a gift it is to have close heart girl and couple friends, near and far.

With Fritz and Frank, Don and I have laughed over past history, reminisced about joint travels, and enjoyed extended conversations over the past days. Being in the Buschmans’ church Sunday and meeting some of their friends here was a blessing, as we can now picture them, singing hymns of the faith and listening to the Word as it is taught. We also enjoyed good meals and Moos ice cream!

We especially cherish this opportunity to be with them since, on December 1st, 2021, Frank had a very serious bike accident. With multiple injuries, he was in a trauma center, unconscious, for a month. He spent another month in rehab before he and Fritz returned home. While Frank is still recovering, he is doing well and we rejoice in the wonderful treatment he received, the many prayers expressed on his behalf, and the chance to spend time with them again.

All four of us have roots in Ukraine. Frank’s, Don’s, and my mother’s ancestors left for America and Canada in 1874-1876; Fritz’s for Canada in 1925 or 26; and my father’s family, also for Canada, in late 1929, at the end of the Bolshevik Revolution. We are following the war closely, and continue to pray for the people of Ukraine, and for those serving them in the name of Jesus.

My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.

Psalms 73:26 NIV