A Valentine's Day from Not So Long Ago

This picture was made on Valentine's Day, 2003. We had been in Ecuador for a little over six weeks, and this was taken inside our first apartment, which, to us, seemed to have been made almost entirely of glass. We were in the city of Cuenca, nestled snuggly in the Andes Mountains. You can see some of those mountains and examples of typical architecture outside the window behind me.
Steve made the pictures because he was very proud of his purchase -- and so was I. If the roses had been purchased alone, they would have cost about a dollar and a half. But, when the balloon, the greenery, the vase and the ribbon were all added, the total came to a whopping $10.00!!! Speaking of roses, if you happened to receive some today, it is highly likely that they came from Ecuador -- a major exporter of roses to the U.S.

Those of you who know me well can look at my face and notice, especially in my eyes, that I was going through colossal upheaval and challenges in those days. Truthfully, I didn't know it showed quite so much until I saw these pictures. Every "known" in the first 52 years of my life had been turned into an "unknown." Unfamiliar cooking methods, unusual foods, language school, transportation, new friends, cultural nuances and traditions -- you name it. Steve was all I had from my "past life."

As I remember those days, I'm also reminded of the dependence upon God that was a part of every waking hour. We had an awesome prayer team that was constantly lifting us up and interceding on our behalf. God demonstrated His love and provision on a steady and constant basis. Every promise that He had made in His Word, and that I claimed in those days, was fulfilled. I can see for myself how frightened I was, but I can also testify to God's grace and mercy. Not many weeks later, the look in my eyes revealed peace and the steadfast "blessed assurance" that I was not alone. God knew where I was, and He had His eye on me just as it was on every sparrow.

Steve and I have now had 40 Valentine's Days together, and for each one, he has been sweet, generous and loving. But, I think for both of us, that this particular February 14th stands out because it represents a time of total dependence on God.

P.S. Two years ago I got to be in the delivery room when our 7th grandchild, Penelope Delia Rodgers, was born on Valentine's Day. She is a blonde, blue-eyed cherub who is a human whirlwind of activity and excitement. Happy Birthday, sweet Penelope!