Green Bean Casserole, Language Progress, and Thankfulness

One of my favorite holidays is Thanksgiving. There are so many things that I love about the holiday: the preparations for the big meal, the wonderful smells from the kitchen, laughter in the air, expressing our gratitude, and quality time with family and friends. I may not have been with my family this year for the holiday (we did a video call and that was great!), but the day did not disappoint. I got to spend it with my “Parole de Vie” family. The language school put on a potluck style Thanksgiving feast. It was a wonderful time of laughter, good food, and giving thanks. I have much to be thankful for.

Now why am I holding a container of French's Fried Onions in the picture? For the potluck, I wanted to make my two favorite Thanksgiving side dishes: green bean casserole and mashed potatoes. I discovered that French's Fried Onions are not as well known here. I went to three different stores looking for them. I asked a store employee (in French) if they had any. She had never heard of French's Fried Onions! She asked a colleague and she didn't know either. It was interesting trying to explain what they are. I showed them a picture of it and they still didn't know. She directed me to a different store that she thought would have them. I went to the store and found them! I was so happy! Not only did I have what I needed to make the dish, but I successfully used French to get there. A year ago I couldn't have done that. I still have a long ways to go in learning French, but I'm making progress. And that is what counts. Today, I am thankful for green bean casserole, language progress, and small victories in French.

There are only two weeks left of the semester. It feels unreal how fast this semester has flown by. In a week, final exams will begin. Will you please pray for the language school students as we prepare for finals? On December 16th , after I finish my exams, I will be flying home for a three week break for the holidays. I am looking forward to this break and spending time with friends and family back in Michigan. Thank you for coming along on this journey with me. I am grateful for each of you! Learning French is not easy, but I am thankful that progress is being made. Thank you for your prayers, encouragement, and support. It means the world to me.

God bless,

Liz

Prayer Requests:

● Pray for my visa situation, there was an issue with the renewal. I am working on trying to get it resolved.

● Pray that I would not be anxious about French

● Pray for my dad, he is not doing very well. His latest MRI shows progression in his MS which leads to greater pain, loss of energy, and confusion.

● Pray for safe travels back to Michigan on December 16th

● Pray for language school students as we prepare for final exams in a few weeks.

● Pray for patience as I study and learn the French language.

● Pray for an ASL interpreter for Togo – big opportunity for one!

● Pray for more opportunities for me to practice signing.

Praises: