WELL! It finally happened! Yep, God has answered my prayers and given me someone to love and to cherish the rest of my life! I've spent over 33 years and the last decade doing the work of the Lord as a single man. I've often thought to myself if this indeed was calling--to be a Paul. But then, 17 months ago while home on furlough after having been in Africa for over three years I met Adie Banks. God brought us together at the Christian school where she had been working and this past May after 5 years of serving as a 1st grade school teacher, she resigned, moved home and put the finishing touches on our wedding plans.
I NEVER thought July 1st would get here! I suppose that is exactly how everyone feels just before their wedding date but time seemed to be creeping by. Then before the big day as family and close friends were flying in from all over the country to Oregon things picked up. It was at this point that I was only here for the ride!
Adie and I chose her parents anniversary (7/1) to be married. So, while they were marking their 33rd year we were just starting the journey that God has set us out on. The wedding was simple, tasteful and beautiful (mostly due to my lovely bride!).
After the ceremony and after saying goodbye to family and friends we took off for our honeymoon. It was such a great trip. Adie told me often that she only wanted to show me her part of the country; what I often referred to as her "motherland." So we spent time in Portland, Seattle, Mt. Hood, Crater Lake and the Cannon Beach area near the coast. It was absolutely perfect! I was with the most beautiful women in one of the most beautiful places on earth! What more could a guy ask for? From here we are slated to visit with Adie's family for a couple weeks before heading to Buffalo, NY to see my relatives. After which, we'll be heading in mid August directly to Togo to continue our second term (or rather her first, my second).
