I got a postcard from Elton & Sirkka! I don't know if you can see the date stamped here, but it says 11072006. So it took from July 11 until today to get here. I wonder if that's because it's a postcard, or because it's coming from Europe.

“Dear Lilyan,

It is hot here in Finland. People only wear what they have to, to be modest. Sun sets at 11 PM, sun rises at 2 AM. Lots of daylight hours now, but the days are very short in the winter. We had a good convention, all in Finnish. We spend most of our time visiting relatives in rest homes and hospitals. It seems that everyone has some serious health problem that could get worse at anytime. Their bad health provides an opportunity for a witness that otherwise might not be there.

Love, Elton & Sirkka”

Coyan wrote! He actually took time out of his busy life to write! That means a lot in itself, besides what he wrote which is very upbuilding. This letter was one of the things I kept with me in the hospital the entire time and had people read to me over and over again. Especially when I felt beat up and needed to feel strong, loving arms around me.

I think he sent this in March or April, not sure anymore, just that it was the major sustaining force keeping me connected to Jehovah until Sabrina came.
[Below the picture is a typed-out copy of what he wrote.]
“Dear LilyAnn and mom,
Hope you are both holding your own with Jehovah's help. I am so sorry you are having to go thru these trials when you would rather be preaching or enjoying the congregation. Be assured Jehovah and the angels appreciate your good examples of faith and those that are familiar with your circumstance are encouraged also. I can imagine it is a real fight to keep a good hopeful spirit. Keep Fighting! 1 Timothy 6:12.

With you in my prayers

your brother,

Coyan Hricziscse”