Thursday, December 18, 2008

Life Update

Sorry that it has been awhile since I posted anything but thought I would at least give you an update on what's going on it our lives.
First, we're packing.  We didn't get much out of storage when we came home but what little we did is almost packed up ready to go back into storage.  We already have our summer clothes (which is all that we take) in suitcases ready to go.  We have done a first run of what we "want" to take other than clothes (books are a high priority since it's hard to find good Christian books there) and a second run trying to get our luggage numbers and size down. And we have been trying to spend as much time as possible with family and friends.  Life is busy but we have an incredible God given peace!
This Friday is our Grandson Wyatt's third birthday and we are looking forward to being able to celebrate that with family.  God has been so gracious to allow us to be here for some pretty major family events and we are so thankful.  We were able to see our son graduate from RTS and then even to see him ordained.  And to be here for many of our daughters transitions as well. We never thought we would  be here for two Holiday seasons so we feel blessed beyond measure!
After our Christmas celebration, on December 29, 30, and 31st, we will pack the kitchen and move out of our apartment.  Most of the furniture is on loan, so we need to return it and put our bedroom suite and boxes in storage.
Then we will move into Lindsey's home for a few days and leave on January 9th returning to the Philippines.  We depart at 12:05 p.m. Friday afternoon and arrive in Manila at 5:40 a.m. on Sunday morning.  Will you please pray for safe travel as we are flying on Philippines Airlines this time and we have never flown with them before.
Also, will you please pray for a SMALL, FURNISHED house that feels like "home"?  That combination is challenging to find in the Philippines but we know that God can do it because He did it last time and He is faithful!  And will you please pray for the location of our home as well.  We aren't "tied" to the area where we lived last time and want to find a neighborhood where we can minister to the people, so would appreciate your prayers in that area also.
One last request, would you please pray for our family as we return?  Lindsey is doing well but it will be an adjustment, and of course she isn't too thrilled about it.  And then last week, little Wyatt walked into our apartment and said, "Granna, you have to go back to the Philippines again?"  Obviously Chad and Kelly have started that preparation process.  And for smooth transition back into the country on our part. Well, maybe that was more than one.
So, the blogs will soon begin giving you an insight into life in the Philippines.  We thank you abundantly for your prayers and support, for making it possible for us to be your hands and feet to take the gospel to the Filipinos.  Thank you for ministering along side of us in spirit and through prayer.  And our hearts are full of PRAISE to God for the opportunity and privilege to minister in the Philippine's on His behalf. 
And we want to wish you a Blessed, Merry Christmas as you celebrate the most incredible gift ever given.

3 comments:

Lynn Cross said...

We are lifting you up before the Father in this busy time. Next year we want to come visit so get a house big enough for guests! I love you. Lynn

Laurie M. said...

Thank you for the update, and for giving me a window into your world. I'll keep you and your family in my prayers, and look forward to hearing about your work. I miss you, already and I haven't even met you!

Anonymous said...

will certainly be praying for you all as you transition from US, fly to Philippines and find a new home! Enjoy working with you all!
Carrell