After giving thanks for the lack of gunfire in my community in recent months...

tonight brings us rudely back to reality, with the trilling machine guns and snapping revolvers, which, I'm sure, I could see in tracer fire-like red arcs if I had the stupidity and courage to look out the window. But then, the buildings would probably be in my way. From the sound of things, it's on another street.

Several people posted comments recently, saying really nice ego-boosting things about how I was a hero or that they admired the work I do. Thanks. Sometimes, on nights like this, I need a bit of solid reassurance because God doesn't always sound quite so loud when the "voice of reason" tells me to lie on the floor and start thinking about buying a home, or, at the very least, invest in armor-plating the rental I'm currently in.

Dogs go crazy at gunfire. And people get kind of antsy too. Imagine.

I'm reminded of a story I once heard about some missionaries who made a fake, darkly ironic travel promo for the place they were serving while lying under the table during a routine bombing. "Welcome to Baghdad. Your adrenaline will race, your agility will increase and property values are low, low, LOW! All Christmas specials include gas mask, bulletproof vest, and a collection of sedatives for your comfort. Enjoy your stay! If you need anything, anything at all, inquire at the hotel desk. Desk may be unoccupied during peak bombing hours..." Stuff like that. Reminds me of home...

=) But I was writing to talk about my comments. Got sidetracked. Sorry.

Thanks for writing! I know I owe some responses and they're in the works...just give me time to get a good night's sleep and process some things and I'll have something up in a day or two.

Oh, and pray for us. Because I know I'm not the only person who finds it hard to sleep with gunfire. And someone out there is shooting...and being shot at.

Thanks.

Oh. The power just went out. Or at least the street lights, which means that the tank is on my street.

My little sister who does more daring things than me says that she likes to keep her guardian angels in good shape. Rest assured that mine are attaining hitherto untold protective assignments, and they're doing a good job. Thank you JESUS!!!

And now I go to bed, having used my blog as an escape mechanism and assured myself of many comments from frantic friends and family. That was NOT intended. ;) But I appreciate knowing that YOU are also alive!!!

Beijos,

Jenna