AU REVOIR TO PARIS

The time has come to say our "good-byes" and cast our eyes on Michigan. We both remarked at lunch today that it seems we have hardley just arrived here, and now it is time to go! What an incredible experience it has been for both of us--much more than we ever thought or envisioned. John finally got to the top of the Eiffel Tower, walking up to the second stage, and then taking the lift.

We are being ushered out with a blitz of appreciation, and listening to wonderful music. This week we have had three opportunities to attend concerts by the Philippine Madrigal Singers, a world class acapella group of 24 men and women, musician alumni and students of the University of the Philippines. The first concert was in the Invalides Church of the Dome (within walking distance and where Napoleon is buried), the second venue was at the world headquarters of UNESCO, and then the final concert at our church.

Also last Sunday, our church hosted the "Distinctly Bronze" bell ringers from the U.S., a group of 32 ringers with over 100 bells...we've never heard anything quite like that!

So it's off to the airport Sunday morning, July 1, being picked up at 5:00 a.m. for our BA flight thru London, Chicago, and then to Grand Rapids.

It's been wonderful to share our experiences with you, and we appreciate the thoughts and prayers for us during these 6 months in "the city of Lights."