Engage (Wycliffe Orientation)

 We spent a week at Wycliffe going through orientation for new members. They provided our transportation, housing, and food for the week. We had classes in the morning for all new members, classes in the afternoons for supported members, and the last two days were for supported members with children. It was all so well done and intentional in helping us as we transition to being full time members with Wycliffe. The kids also had classes all day to help them learn what it will be like as they transition to a new country and culture. 

Some of the beautiful artwork at Wycliffe

All of the wonderful people that were there with us

The Gray Havens

 One of our favorite groups is The Gray Havens and they just happened to be doing a concert at a seminary near where we were staying in Orlando. Since it was a smaller venue and the tickets were more affordable, we took the whole family to see them. It was such a sweet time together and so great to see Anna really enjoying seeing a group in person that she listens to all the time. It is just one of the many ways we have seen the Lord take care of our children in this tumultuous time of many transitions. 

Nashville Friends in Florida

 We came a day early to Wycliffe so we could see some Nashville friends that had relocated to Florida. Anna and one of their daughters writes to each other regularly. We had a good time at brunch with this family and spent some time catching up at the park. 

Sewing Class with Mommom

 Since Anna and Kate and their two girl cousins are all homeschooled, Phil's mom did a sewing class with them. She taught them how to sew on a button and how to do a basic stitch. 

Our First Speaking Engagement

 Our first speaking engagement was at Phil's second cousin's church in North Carolina. We stayed at the old family home since the church was only about an hour away from there. We spent some time with Aunt Sherri on Saturday and spoke at the church on Sunday. This is the beginning of us building our prayer and financial team for our Wycliffe ministry. 

Rachel's Surprise Party

 I am part of a group of moms that all have kids with special needs. These sweet moms met my husband at Walmart to get all of my favorite foods for a surprise birthday party for me. We had such a good time and they were so sweet to do this for me. 

New (Temporary) Home #2

 We moved into the apartment above Phil's sister's garage. It is only one bedroom, so the girls are sleeping down in the den in the main house. This will be our temporary home until we head to Thailand. 

Phil's Last Day at Butler

 In preparation for raising support, Phil resigned his position at the charter school in our town. His last day was September 2nd. 

Rachel's Birthday

 I had my birthday two days after Phil and we celebrated by moving. We have lived with friends for the last month, but their septic system wasn't doing well, so we needed to move. Phil's sister has an apartment above their garage (in the house they rent), so we moved into that. The girls stay down in their den and John sleeps on a mattress on the floor up here with us. John was in school, but the girls, Phil, and I went to a Thai place for lunch. That was my first time there and it was super yummy! 

My birthday present from the kids