Our family reunion started with a quick visit to Grandma Wiens in Anoka, Minnesota. It was so fun to spend the evening with her, laugh and reminisce about our Africa days together. How fortunate was I that my grandma lived in Africa with me??!! While grandma's body is aging and she has slowed down alot, her gentle spirit, kind and serving heart, and bubbly happy self remains intact.
Family reunion was a BLAST! It was so nice to get away from the "mundane", humidity & heat. Bemidji was a beautiful 75 to 80 degrees with low humidity. Cannoeing on the lake each day, tubing, fishing and walking in the forest was refreshing to say the least! Add to beautiful weather, 50+ people that are bound together by family ties and faith... It was memorable.
One of my favorite memories was the night of sharing that we had. Each family took a few minutes (which is tough with a Wiens background) to update the rest of the family on events that have taken place in the past 3 years and how we could pray for each other. It was so evident that our God continues to be faithful in the midst of difficult times. One cousin lost her home in Ventura because of a wild fire, others have children who are struggling with their faith, some lost family members. We take comfort knowing that God hears and listens to our pleas for help as we walk these paths.
The other favorite time was competing in the Wiens Olympics & spending the day at Peter and KaySue's lake house. Both events allowed us to play, be in the sun, build stronger friendships, and laugh. For the record, My dad got Gold in the bean bag toss and I won Silver. Rest assured I will be there with my "gold" game face for 2013!!!!!
I am blessed beyond belief. My heritage is rich. Grandmpa Wiens followed God's call on his life and settled in Northern Minnesota, started Mildred Bible Chapel, and raised his children to be deeply committed followers of Christ. While only a few of my great aunts and uncles remain, their legacy is being carried on through their children and grandchildren. I sat in our Sunday morning family worship time and was deeply moved at what was represented in that room...wealth beyond measure, dedication, perseverance, and deep faith. This is what it means to truly be rich. I pray I will be able to continue my journey with as much grace and intentionality as those who have gone before me and set such an exceptional example.
I'm so glad you had fun and were strengthened by your visit with family in Minnesota. Your family is very special. Your grandma looks so sweet.
ReplyDelete