The Italian Memorandum

The summer of 2011 will be remembered as hot (fa caldo). But, now, the evening breeze is cooler and we are ready for the transition. Bob will depart August 23^rd. Marla will depart September 2^nd. The purpose of this post is to mention some of the things that have transpired most recently. In July, we had a family reunion in Des Moines. That week of the 4^th, also, we drove to Chicago with Signor Coco en route to the Italian Consulate. Once there, at 500 North Michigan Avenue, we met some key people (with authority). From this meeting and by additional exchanges of documents, we received our Visa just yesterday; along with the return of our passports and other sensitive materials. This may sound perfunctory, but until we had these documents in hand, our mission would be considered a “no-go.” The remainder of July and August, to-date, has been a period of meetings, documents, and last minute items. Without getting too detailed, we might mention that notarization of a half-dozen such documents was part of the time consuming aspect of this work. Obtaining a contract in Italy for an apartment has also been fraught with twists and turns. We are pleased to say though that we are now guaranteed a residence (Via Marco Polo). We must also mention our southern trip to Memphis; Cape Girardeau; Essex; and Clinton. These places, both large and small are nothing but powerhouses of encouragement to us. We had a briefing with Lewis and Tammy in Memphis. They have been the missionaries in Milan for the past 10 years. We must also mention how great that it has been to be here in Des Moines with the Grandview church of Christ. From their support through my back surgery to countless encouragements along the way, we are indebted to this group of Iowa Christians. To the Elders and Deacons on our Missions team at Grandview, thank very much for your sponsorship of the March to Milan. We will miss Grandview very much, as we say goodbye to Des Moines.