5 Minute Monthly: May (and then some)

This month, we have some big news to share which is why our monthly update is intentionally late. I have taken my time in posting this as we work through what this change means for our family and how we prepare for the future in light of it. I want to preface this news by saying that God is in control. Our plans are not his plans and what may seem like a setback, can also be seen as a blessing. Sometimes we are surprised by the amazing blessings and joy that come after hardships and unfortunate events and sometimes the joy and hardships are meshed together. When we found out we were having a baby and that postponed our mission timeline, that was a setback and a bit of a disappointment. But how could we stay sad and disappointed when Josiah is the light in our lives and brings us so much joy every day? God created a joy that altered our plans but changed our perspective and made life a little brighter. So when I share this news, I would not say we've had another setback but rather an opportunity to see God use our lives for his glory. And really that is what it is all about: letting God use us, his children, for his glory. What a privilege it is to be a part of something so wonderful and beyond us.

So what's the big news? Here it is: We will not be leaving for the UK in August. Our leave date has been pushed back to January 2025.

Mission Update

January 2025 feels like forever to wait for something we have been pursuing for so long but it must be part of God's plan. The main reason we had to plan for January is we did not reach our support raising deadline. To leave in August we need to be applying for visas now and we can't apply for visas until we are 70%. We are at 56%. This is discouraging for sure but not defeating and it does not diminish our passion for going. Our hearts are still 100% in this and we are so close to our goal. Once we reach 70% we will hit the ground running. We will be getting our visas, preparing to leave and working towards the last 30% in the UK if we have to. God works in his timing and all we can do is trust! We will continue to ask boldly for the remaining financial support knowing that the Lord provides and he works through all of you. So prayerfully consider giving, spread the word and don't hesitate to contact us with any questions!

Life Happenings

The months of May and June have seemed to morph into one as easily as spring has morphed into summer in Hayward Wisconsin. Life is busy but beautiful and full of little blessings. One of those adorable little blessings is Josiah. Our active boy is sitting up, babbling and cutting his first tooth. He is enjoying his first tastes of solid food and is always moving his little arms and legs. There is never a dull moment with that kid and I wouldn't want it any other way. My days are filled with Josiah, of course, but I also organize and execute the many meetings we have with people as we continue to support raise. Tyler is diligently working hard to provide for our family while also spending his evenings running for hours as he prepares for his Marathon. He is getting more involved with our church and we are both building relationships in hopes to establish ourselves and get to know the church body on a deeper level.

In May, we had family visiting and my youngest brother got engaged. We attended a wedding of some good friends and Josiah was reunited with his cousin again. The days were warm and we spent a lot of time outside on walks and playing in the water. As May rolled into June we found out my brother and his wife are having a girl, we celebrated my Grandpa's birthday and our whole little family went through a season of sickness. Tyler's first Father's Day ended up being a day to test his skills as a dad. Josiah was teething and very fussy that day and I was still a little sick and a whole lot of emotional. Tyler demonstrated what a father does by so kindly caring for his wife and child on a day that was meant to celebrate him. I am thankful for a husband who continually shows love and cares for his family so well.

Now here we are almost through June. We love our crazy life and we love each other and Josiah too. Our hearts are set on the UK and the mission God has called us to but as we wait we strive to embrace all that God has given us in Hayward. Each day is a blessing and the lessons we learn are just preparing us for the next day and the next.

Pray With Us

We are so blessed and thankful for all the friends and family who are surrounding us in prayer and investing in our journey. The Lord is faithful and he works through his people. Thank you all for loving us well and giving your time, resources and prayer. We love you all.