This past weekend Melissa and Derek celebrated their engagement with what the French call "les fiançailles". This is an old tradition still respected in some families, although neither Florent nor I had ever attended one. But now, I can honestly say that I see the value in it. It allowed the two families to meet each other, which probably would never have happened before the wedding, seeing as half of us live in France and the other half in Scotland. So that now, when the big day comes in August, we'll already know each other, some at least, and have some fun memories to draw on together.

We started out by heading up to Brussels, Belgium where Florent's sister and bro-in-law live. We loved what we saw of Brussels, and I especially like this little shop window.


Florent's sis and bro-in-law have a really cool industrial-style house which used to be a workshop. Being serious artists both of them, they're re-making an interesting place out of it. Oriane, Florent's little sis, is expecting her first baby this spring and it was fun to see her "baby bump".

Florent and Oriane

The next day, we all took off for Arras, one of the northernmost cities in France. We met up with Melissa, Derek and the family at the place where they had rented a room for the party. It was a great place, all glass on one side with a nice view on the lawn.


The meal was yummy, the talk fun and lively around the table, hundreds of pictures were taken, and presents were given. Trying to communicate in two languages was a challenge at times, between the Scottish and French sides of the family, but we did pretty well. Both of the fathers spoke to the young couple, and both of the mothers prayed over them. Then, just before the dessert, (one of the best double chocolate cream cakes I've ever tasted), Derek put a bag at Melissa's place at the table while she wasn't looking. Inside was a beautiful diamond ring, it looks so pretty on her finger. She was thrilled as you can imagine!! Derek did a really good job picking out just the right ring. I bet he was relieved to see the look of joy on her face!














We decided to prolong the evening, and promised to meet up in front of the movie theater in the center of Arras. From there, David and Brigitte showed us around the center of town, the two beautiful and impressive town squares and the famous belltower. It wouldn't be known to Americans, but has "starred" in one of the most popular French films ever made, "Bienvenue Chez les Chtis".







As the night got chillier we stopped to sit at an outdoor café (yes in November!) and ordered something to drink. I got my favorite, warm milk with vanilla. I do feel like a granny ordering that, but it's just so good when it's cold out. And especially when you're sitting outside to drink it.

The next day, Florent preached at the church that Melissa and the Sutherlands go to. He gave a great message on Luke 15, which we often call 'The Prodigal Son', but which he says should be called 'Two Brothers', since the older brother's reaction is equally important as the younger's.

After a great lunch (thank you Brigitte!), we drove the 7 hour trip back, as real life would start up again on Monday. And it did!

Congratulations Melissa and Derek! We love you and are praying for you, love, joy and a lifetime of faithfulness to God and to each other, knowing that if the first is there, the second will follow. Now, we can't wait until the big day in August, woo hoo, see you there!!