Without you, where would we be?

Our youngest was missing Lethbridge last night.  We sat on the bed and wrapped up in a very special quilt made for our family.  We dubbed it the "lonely quilt".  It's filled with bright colours and pictures of us with some very good friends.  It's a great reminder of the warmth and support we have back home. (This quilt had been in the missing crate, so you can imagine our relief when that crate was found!). Not only does the quilt remind us of home, it's a reminder that missing those we love is ok, acceptable and normal.  This morning, an email from the very friends Ethan and I were remembering greeted me, what a great way to brighten the day!  

Yes, it's only been a couple of weeks, but as we shift our gears from the excitement of arriving to settling in for the long haul, we can't help but reflect on home back in Canada.  It's ok, it's expected, it's allowed.

What has helped us here has been the technology.  Being able to Skype, phone, email, blog and Facebook has helped us stay connected with our amazing support system.  Day to day, we can see the evidence of prayers lifted on our behalf.  As the travel went smooth, luggage was found and even experiencing an "ideal" transition unfolded, we could only give credit to God and thank those who's prayers have helped pave our way.  

You see, us being here only emphasizes the importance of the team we have around us.  While we have the opportunity to be the "doers" in Rwanda, the driving force and the ability to make a difference starts at home.  Without the encouragement of our church, Rwanda would have never been considered.  Without the blessing of our pastor and the congregation, we would not have has the "green light" with the protection or umbrella to be able to make a difference.  Without the supporters (for the orphanage, bible college and our family), there would be no work here.  Missions is a group effort!  

We have truly experienced that support and group effort.  With each email, our spirits have been lifted.  When there's a Facebook message or comment, we are reminded that we are not forgotten.  As people lift us up in prayer, we see God move here.  Being here has given me a greater appreciation for churches with a global perspective--embracing opportunity to make an impact around the world. How exciting!  Thank you for giving our family the opportunity to be able to help make a small difference in the world around us!

Praise reports:

--Visa application has been submitted.  We could have visas next week.  We still need to get new birth certificates for the 4 oldest kids, but we have a 3 month window (with temporary visas) to do this.

--Kim is doing very well driving in Rwanda

--Ethan (who was terrified of rain) is now outside singing in the rain:)

Prayer Requests:

--continued wisdom as we direct the home

--ease in adjusting to life here, especially for the kids (they've been amazing, but we know it's not easy for them)