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It has been a while since I have last updated everyone. Please forgive me for the absence. In many ways I thought less about Costa Rica because of the later departure date(It was the right decision). However, this did not stop God from perfectly planning our departure and arrival. So let me begin with some awesome news.
We have set our date to officially move from St. Augustine, Florida and into the inner city of Alajuelita, Costa Rica. May 15th, will be our launch date! I am so excited to begin our training. Please pray for a smooth transition, an understanding of the culture and language.
Alli and Judah are both very health. Judah loves getting hiccups and "massaging" mommies ribs. He is due to see the world February 28th, however, our children are notoriously a week late. Please pray for a safe and healthy delivery( and on time (: ).
During our fundraising campaign in October God surpassed our expectations and provided enough money for us to purchase a used van and some furniture. Yes, we already purchased it! Through God's perfect plan we were able to purchase the vehicle from a missionary family who was no longer in need of it. Praise God! This is huge as we are now able to transport 3 kids in car seats.
I received an awesome phone call from the on ground Ministries Director last month. He wanted to know if we would be interested in renting a small house near the ministries team house, even though we had plans to move into a small apartment next to the ministries team house. The decision was tough; we would be in the same location, we would have more room for the kids to play, an extra bathroom, a bigger kitchen and 2 rooms. As you can imagine we agreed to move into the house. Praise God! This was a huge blessing for me but an even greater blessing for Alli. God is good!
Last month we also received a phone call from Alli's loving grandmother (whom we call Mema). Mema is one of the most loving, humble, serving, energetic and enthusiastic woman I know. Ok, enough bragging. Mema called us and said she wants to move to Costa Rica to help with the transition, with the intent to stay and help on the Children's ranch. As you can imagine this was huge news for us. Alli will be so busy taking care of 3 under 3, I will be very busy leading teams this summer and to have an extra set of hands... wow! God is preparing us for some exciting times. God is good!
The Children's Ranch property is fully paid off! Wahoo! This summer we are beginning the process of walling off the land and building the first 3 homes. The hope is to construct the homes for the first 3 families to move onto the Ranch. This will allow us to move and get things started. The sooner we can get the houses built the more teams we can host to help prepare the property for the first kid. I can't wait for first boy to move into his new home and join his new family! It brings joy to my heart and a smile to my face. Please pray for the resources to build on the Ranch and for the boys that will be living their.
Your prayers are coveted and appreciated. May God be glorified in His children.