Lisbon and Portugal

In October 2004, we realized a dream to visit Portugal. Most of our time was spent in Lisbon with side trips to the mountains and to Fatima. Compared to other locations in Europe, Portugal is inexpensive while a very interesting and beautiful country. It is one of a few places in Europe where we would consider retiring.

Ireland

In late June 2004, we vacationed in Ireland. We flew to Dublin, then traveled by train for several days. Jim enjoys visiting zoos so spent a day at the Dublin zoo. It was a great surprise. It's a small zoo but first class, actually one of the best zoos we have seen anywhere in the world.

We especially enjoyed the Blasket Isles. They are magnificent islands with very few inhabitants and a very interesting history. We will definitely visit Ireland again.

LAKEWOOD CHURCH

Carmel started attending Lakewood Church when I was working in Iraq, which is pastored by Joel Osteen. She found renewed belief in Jesus Christ under the ministries of Pastor’s Joel, Victoria, and Marcos. After retiring in 2007 Carmel did some volunteer work in pastoral ministry, special concert events, and Osteen Ministries Depts. Carmel was heartbroken about leaving her church and newfound friends. She is still going to work ministries if we are in the areas where Pastor Joel is hosting events. Carmel lost weight during the eighteen months that Jim worked in Iraq.

Iraq

Jim was fortunate to be offered a position in Iraq as a HR Director on some large construction projects. He served 19 months in Iraq. He has many Iraqi friends now and wants to return as a tourist eventually. The people are very friendly and the vast majority appreciate us being there.