I have been silent on posting any blogs, but our lives continue to move at a rapid pace. We loved spending a couple of weeks seeing friends and family in the states.
To the people in Michigan—Thank you for loving us. Thank you for loving my girls. Each of you are always so kind and generous towards our family and ministry. Thank you for allowing us to celebrate with you all of the wonderful things happening in Grace Ministries.
It was the first time for my girls to visit Michigan and they loved it! From eating and shopping in Holland to seeing the lighthouse on Lake Michigan to picking apples, they had an awesome time.
To the people in Alabama—We were able to see so many faces of people we love. Thank you for making us feel like part of your family. Thank you for your hospitality and welcoming arms. (My girls can give you an analysis on every TJ Maxx in Alabama.)
I really can’t explain it, but there is a special bond with people who serve together. I like meeting people for the first time when they are in Guatemala. No titles, no background knowledge, no history—only people serving together with one common goal. Yet, when we see them again it feels like we have known them for many years. If you have served with others on a mission trip then you probably understand it. My girls and I love every minute of knowing so many people in various parts of the country and calling them friends. We are blessed to have so many wonderful people in our lives.
As much as we loved visiting family and friends in the states, my girls were ready to return to Guatemala. They make it very clear to me that Guatemala is their home and love it. As the plane was started to descend in Guatemala, Audrey looked at me and said, “It already smells like Guatemala!” I have no idea what she actually meant and I didn’t ask any questions!
Of course, the highlight of the trip was watching my dad baptized Sydney!
The next few blogs will focus on some different aspects of our ministry. When I speak with groups or individuals, I realize our ministry is too much to explain in only a few minutes. People seem to ask me the same questions—How do you choose the children for the school? How do you choose the houses? Are there follow-ups with the families in the communities?
Our school year for 2025 has finished. Our “summer camps” will begin on Monday. We are busy finalizing 2025 while preparing for 2026! It is never boring on the mountain!
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