Unexpected Joys!

I love waking up and discovering a new flower has grown in my yard. I am sure Todd's grandmother, Memo, planted them many moons ago. Just beautiful!

Open Eyes and Lovely Thoughts

God has brought this scripture to mind so many times lately. "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things." Philippians 4:8

I pray this blog will help us to "think about such things." I have asked God to open my eyes and allow me to see what He is doing all around. He has brought about clarity...I have seen so many serving, being kind, praising God, loving others, I have seen humility, empathy, and so many other Christ-like qualities overflowing from fellow believers. I hope to be able to share about these instances with you. Dear ones, allow God to open your eyes today and see and "think about such things"...

As you can see, there have been lots of changes in our life as well as with this blog. I am not completely finished with the new layout, but I could not wait to share with you any longer. I think it has been almost 4 months since we moved back to the States! Many things have happened in these past months, and I want to share them with you throughout several posts. They should be filled with lots of gratefulness!

So many people worked hard to prepare for our "homecoming" and I say a big "thank you" to all of you! Especially our families, who sacrificed, worked endless hours, and prayed for a smooth transition for us and the boys. The pictures above give you a feel of our new home. The home belonged to Todd's dear "Memo". She was an exceptional lady who loved Jesus and her family. It has been a place of peace these last months when many things in our lives were difficult and trying at times. I am so very thankful for our "home" and for those who prepared it for us. "Come to me , all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." Matthew 11:28-30

The Beginning of Many Miles!

Leaving our home in Botswana was really difficult yesterday morning....

We drove 8 or so hours into South Africa. It was beautiful. I am just so thankful to be on this journey with Todd and our boys. God has blessed me so very much. Please keep praying that He will reveal the details as we trust and follow Him. Blessings, friends.

Church Family

We are going to miss our home church, Gaborone Baptist Church. May the Lord bless and keep them. Today we shared a special meal and said our goodbyes. We have truly been blessed by knowing and loving these precious folks.

Village Family

I'll miss our church family...

Today was our last Sunday with one of the churches in a local village. They made a nice meal for us, prayed for us, and sent us off well. We are so thankful to know these brothers and sisters in Christ. May the Lord bless them and use them to share His truth and love with this nation.

"My God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus."

Philippians 4:19

Letters

Our little family will miss letters from home.

Did you know people still write and send letters? So many of you have sent us packages and cards for the past 6 1/2 years. We love each and every one we have received. Today we were fortunate enough to get these Valentines from a group of children. Tonight we sat together as a family and read through each one. Precious!

Mail time at our house is always a treat...every letter is read and enjoyed by the whole family. These notes have been a huge source of encouragement to us. All I can say is, "Thank you all."

I remember getting notes from Todd when we first began dating. I would read through them many times until I knew them by heart. His words have always been dear to me. It brings me back to how important and treasured the Word of God should be in our lives. Do we hang on to every word, ponder, and memorize Scripture? Take time each day to sit in His presence and learn from our Teacher, Maker, and Savior.

"All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work."

2 Timothy 3:16,17