2008 Family Update

“A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices,
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn...”

This year, as a “weary world” searches for something in which to rejoice, we are blessed to know the Savior ... and find in Him our all in all! The prayer of the McVey family is that you, our family and friends, will seek His face and experience His JOY in 2009.

And now, the 2008 update …

• Greg is home!!! On February 15, Greg returned from Afghanistan. It was still dark when we gathered outside for an early morning “Welcome Home” ceremony and we couldn’t have been more excited! The kids and I were all dressed up with our “I love Daddy” signs waving in the air. (Of course, we were covered in coats, gloves and scarves … and our signs could not be seen through the dark, but we didn’t care!) It was truly a wonderful moment when Greg made his way across the field and into our arms. We remain grateful to the Lord for His protection while Greg was ministering to soldiers in a dangerous war zone. And we are especially blessed God used him to make a difference in many lives.

• We live in Germany now! In June, Greg was offered a position in Stuttgart, Germany that would give him 3 years of stability (no deployment), and he quickly said “YES!” We had exactly 6 weeks to pick up our lives and move internationally. So we hustled! Today, we are settled on Robinson Barracks, a housing area, where Greg serves as the community chaplain. We are enjoying Europe so far … and especially the incredible ministry God has given us.

• The kids are doing great! Ashley (7) and Lexi (6) are enjoying their new school and friends. They are taking a German class and are involved in Girl Scout troops on post. Both of our girls are compassionate and kind to others, always looking out for those in need. What a blessing! Shane (2 ½) is the light of all of our lives. He always has a huge smile on his face and kisses for his family. What a perfect little caboose for our family!

• I was extremely happy to hand over the “daddy duties” to Greg when he got home. Now, just being mom is enough for me! I am honored to be a part of a great group of ladies here who meet weekly for Bible Study. In January, I will begin teaching a marriage-focused Bible study and I’m really looking forward to it. Now that we are settled, I’m also looking forward to “hitting the road” and seeing some of Europe in the New Year.

• Greg stays extremely busy with his new job. It is quite different than what he did at Fort Stewart, with the focus much more on ministry to families as a whole, not just a group of soldiers in a unit. As soon as housing renovations are complete (hopefully this Spring), 300 families will be moving to Robinson Barracks, so we are thankful for this time of relative peace and quiet to prepare and get things started before the “deluge.” At the same time, the needs are great! Many of the families moving here have been through multiple deployments and are searching for guidance on how to put their families back together. There is plenty to keep us busy.

There is no way to adequately thank you for praying for us while Greg was in Afghanistan! Your care and concern for our family was overwhelming and such an encouragement. We thank the Lord for you ... and ask you to keep us in your prayers as we tackle life in Stuttgart, Germany. Please keep in touch when you can! Visit this blog for updates or email us at gcmcvey@tks-net.com!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, too.