Rainbow Village

Time sure does fly!

Twenty-four years ago this past Monday, my life changed forever.

I became a wife!

Just a short ten months later, a mom.

I've been busy ever since.

But, I wouldn't change a single THING!

I love the life, the husband, the kids- everything that God has blessed me with. It's certainly not perfect, but I wouldn't change a thing.

Since starting back to work full time, April 23 is a day that I make sure is dedicated to celebrating my life with the most important person in my life- Carl.

(Don't misunderstand me.... I love my kids passionately, but they are growing up, maturing, beginning to develop their own lives. Three are already on the other side of the world seeking and following God's will for their future. Carl is here and will continue to be here with me, where ever that might be, until God takes one of us home.)

After traveling to Hong Kong for a quick conference, I was so glad that April 23 fell on a Monday. I needed the rest.

Originally, we thought that Carl would be also off island with the track team in Okinawa, so no big plans were made for our anniversary celebration.

That's ok. We just needed time together.

It was the perfect time to finally visit Rainbow Village.

Scattered through out Taiwan are veteran villages. Here, the government housed the veterans of Taiwan and their families. Hastily built with cheaper materials, these homes have begun to disappear.  The village in Taichung was already being torn down building by building when one of the last residents decided to paint what was left, filling walls and alleyways with bright vibrant colors.

With the help of curious college students the painting continued until all the remaining walls, roofs, and floors were covered in simple, but beautiful,  artwork.

People started coming to see the unique site. 

Eventually, the local government realized the popularity of the attraction and halted the demolition.

Today, it is a favorite attraction in Taichung. While not big, it is definitely a must see. And, it remains the home of the man, known affectionately as Rainbow Grandpa. 

I just can't understand why it took us six years to finally come see it!

Of course, every anniversary celebration should always end with ice cream. Or is it every new year should begin with ice cream. Either way, I in!