The kids thought Eric was coming home tomorrow (Saturday)- so when Eric called to say that he and Kent were able to get home Friday night, I didn’t tell the kids otherwise. But we made banners in preparation, and I managed to make an apple pie and get it in the oven before we left for the train station.
They thought we were going to pick up Uncle Kent and “another guy who had been helping up at the earthquake.” There was SUCH joy at the train station when they saw with their own eyes that the other man was Daddy! Such awesome squeals.
It’s great to have him home. We have a video clip from the train station – watching Ian run to his daddy is worth the watch, I think (I’m biased of course).
The last few minutes Eric has been talking to Peter on the phone. Peter is staying up until Sunday to make a good transition to the next team coming in. But there was an unfortunate incident today that he is handling – when Peter first called Eric about it, Eric hoped it was an April Fool’s joke, but it’s not. A relief team brought back to the one campsite a dog that they found in the city where they were working. The church staff agreed to let the dog stay for a few days, even providing dog food. But today that camp director (our friend Hi-chan’s husband) got bit when the dog escaped and had to go to the hospital. Pray for Peter especially as he finishes his time and needs to handle a lot of different teams coming and going with varied expectations and preparation. Tomorrow is a big day for many of the agencies as Franklin Graham is planning a visit to the area.
Eric will write soon about some of his experiences. I hope we can get a good night sleep. Ian has been having bad coughing fits during the night. Tomorrow we have a soccer parent’s orientation for weekend soccer that Owen is starting.
Just a few minutes ago, we sat and watched a video clip of the mayor of Minami Souma, an area about 20-30 kms. away from the Fukushima nuclear plant, making an appeal for volunteers to come in and help his city. Because of the fear of radiation, they are not receiving help. (Here is the link- it is a bit lengthy but does have english subtitles:
The Takameter 
This situation is heart breaking! Yes, we will pray that God provide the resources and the wisdom for how to use them and for volunteer to be His hands and His feet. May our wonderful God receive all glory and many hearts be turned to Him! May the Lord give you deep, restorative sleep and renew you completely Eric! We will also pray physical protection over the health of everyone–especially Ian with his cough.
Blessings, Carol Brown
I loved the video. Ian’s run to his daddy made me cry. Annie knows her mother well—she immediately got that it was an “April Fool’s” trick. Soooo glad that Eric is home. Praying for healing and strength for all of you. Wish I could be there to help. Love you all!
What a wonderful reunion to capture on film!! I do get a kick out of Annie already guessing that her daddy is coming home! And Ian’s little legs really move fast!! We’re glad Eric’s home but realize that the work is just beginning…
Wonderful reunion scene brought tears in my eyes, I’m sure you cried with joy, Sue! I pray that Eric will be rest well also have great time with family.
The mayor of Minami souma’s speech touched my heart. May God use us to bring help, love and healing into their lives.
Yumiko
Yes, this Priceless and SO COOL!!!! We’re glad that Eric can return safely to you guys! WE’ve been praying for you guys!
Mike
Thanks so much for all of the updates on your blog – we’ve been praying for you guys a lot. We watched the video multiple times – Ian running to his daddy made us both laugh & cry at the same time!