Plans and Preparation

We have had a lot going on the last few weeks, and we are on the countdown to the end of our school year. That is always an exciting time for everyone. We are usually ALL ready for a break by the end. Then we are ALL excited to start again in a few months.

This year our summer is going to be different than most. Four out of five of our American passports are expiring this year, and we can only renew them in person at an American consulate. This requires a trip to Brasilia, Manaus, or São Paulo. Since we have family near São Paulo, it only makes sense that we go there to take care of it and combine it with a little "grandparent time."

Several months ago we began contemplating our next school year and how we were going to get the materials that we need. We've heard of many who have had difficulty getting school curriculum mailed through customs without being charged for it or having other problems. Also, you can imagine the cost of mailing all those books internationally.

We did a lot of research and praying, and decided that the most advantageous route for us would be for me to take a trip to the States in conjunction with our trip to São Paulo and purchase materials to bring back with me. This eliminates the possibility of losing the books or having to pay for them again when they arrive, after we've already purchased them and paid to have them sent. I will also try to take advantage of the trip to stock up on some clothing and other items needed until we take another furlough.

The icing on the cake just happens to be that I was able to plan this three week trip in June during the time when my sister would also be in the United States. She and her family are missionaries in Haiti.  It's been five years since I've seen her and since all my siblings have been together. I am so very excited about being able to spend this time together, and plan to soak up every moment!

I appreciate your prayers for us. I've never traveled separately like this, but I have confidence that Jeremy will do great with the boys. We have a lot to prepare and plan for these trips to ensure that we can accomplish everything that we need to in a small time frame, but I know the Lord will help us.

Four Years

Today marks the four year anniversary of our arrival in the country of Brazil.

We were trudging through airports with three little boys and way too much baggage.  

When I look back, it's hard to believe that we've been here that long, but yet in ways it seems like we've been here forever.

We have learned so much, yet we have so much still to learn. 

The Lord has brought so many precious people into our lives over the last four years. I can't imagine our life without them as a part of it.

I am thinking of many people who have helped us, prayed for us, befriended us, and encouraged us along the way. We are truly grateful.

"This is the Lord's doing; it is marvelous in our eyes." ~ Psalm 118:23