The Weeks Go By...

While we have no moving date in place, our hope is to hit the road in mid-June. That's six weeks away.

Once we knew that relocation was for real, it seemed that God showed me that my two main responsibilities were to make sure we all have lots of good chances to connect with special people here, and to schedule appointments - haircuts, checkups, follow-ups, etc, so that we're all caught up before we alight in a new town.

So far, I'm blown away by God's care and grace on both of these counts. We've already had so many special outings and moments with friends here, and it's been amazing that all this appointment-making is working out so smoothly on the calendar and in real life. I mean, you know, 6 haircut appointments, 6 teeth-cleanings, 6 eye exams...it can seem overwhelming! But it isn't for God.

In addition to those scheduling items, there's CJ's upcoming surgery. After her little hearing loss-experience, she showed some improvement as the result of two medications, but the hearing trouble returned along with the next virus we encountered. At her checkup and a subsequent X-ray, we learned that her tonsils and adenoids are enormous, and that her ears just still cannot drain, which is why her hearing is still poor. So that's another big appointment on the schedule, and a first for us. We've had all manner of ER visits, but none of the kids has had surgery. Right now, CJ's her fearless self about it, excited about all the cool treats to come.

One of many treasured moments we've already enjoyed: BB and I had an impromptu date last weekend, during which we ate at a local restaurant with a biergarten. It was perfect...relaxed time as a couple (especially since he traveled the week before); comfortable temps with no mosquitoes; a fun band - they even played Johnny Cash's Ring of Fire - so fun; and to top it off, the whole eating area is surrounded by climbing vines of flowers and the scent was amazing.

God also blessed us over the last week to spend time with two different couples. The first couple is headed to Papua, New Guinea, to aid in the process of scripture translation. The second couple is headed to Japan in coming months to serve Jesus by sharing the gospel of His love. It was wonderful to connect with both families before we (and they) travel!

I'm so tempted to worry and fret these days. And I do worry and fret, at times. But I'm telling this to the Lord, Who can handle the weight of my worry and will take it away (if I'll let it go). Another big thing to hold is the reality that He takes care of me. And He does such a perfect job of it.

Cast all your anxiety on Him, for He cares for you.
I Peter 5:7

Cast your cares on the Lord and He will sustain you; He will never let the righteous be shaken. 
Psalm 55:22