Summertime update

Happy Middle of August!

We can't believe how quickly the summer is passing. It's been a busy one and we have some updates to share with you:

1.  Last week we had the privilege of going on a family holiday - all seven of us!  Everyone was able to book the same week off from work, so we headed to the beautiful province of Quebec.  We had a great time as a family, enjoying the beauty of the province and engaging in some crazy adventures.  We went white water rafting, whale-watching (and yes, we saw whales!), caving in Gatineau Park and exploring a little of Old Quebec City.  It was absolutely lovely!

The view of the St. Lawrence from one of our campgrounds.

Heading into our first rapid...

Jack and Ted at The Citadel

Beautiful Old Quebec City

It was also great to practice our French.  It's amazing what we remember but more astonishing what we forgot.  Nate only made one major faux-pas but likely we'll never see those people again...(if only I was kidding)

2.  We finally took a family photo and had prayer cards made!  The last time we had a family photo taken was four years ago when we had the last prayer cards made.  

By the by, having family photos taken is not actually that fun - trying to get seven people to behave, all look the same direction, stand still, and smile is no easy task.  

(As much as we're smiling in this photo, I have to admit that I'm gritting my teeth, smiling and saying things like, "Stand up straight.  Stop being silly. Stop pushing your brother.")

Anyhow, mission accomplished. And a big thanks to our neighbour, Sam, who kindly and patiently helped us out with getting one decent shot.

3. Support is coming in!  Below is a photo of our support snake. We are over 30% and are so. very. grateful.

We still have a ways to go but are so thankful for those who have decided to partner with us financially.  If you would like to do so, just contact ABWE at www.abwe.ca/give.

4. Oh, we have so much for you to pray about on our behalf. The family that had planned to purchase our house didn't sell theirs so had to back out of the deal - which is totally fine, and is certainly an answer to prayer.  We have prayed and prayed for God to guide our steps and it looks like we're not selling at this point.  We'll be looking into renting again, but either way we completely trust that He has all the details worked out for us to get to Mango.  Please pray that we would know the next steps to take so that we're on the path that He has set out for us.

We also have a whole heap of immunizations coming up.  Each member of our family needs five except for Nate - and he needs six.  We'll be getting those done in the next few weeks. Yuck.

Finally, our team in Mango is still struggling.  Our dear friends are tired and battle weary.  There has been crazy stuff happening over there - from strange illnesses to burn-out, please be praying for the Mango team as they continue to fight the good fight and endure some big difficulties there.

Thanks again and again for your support and encouragement as we make preparations to head back - we really are super excited and eager to get there.