5 Minute Monthly: October

Fall is by far my favorite time of year! Everything from the warm cozy food we eat to the feeling of the air and the colors all around. God blessed our October in Wisconsin this year by gifting us a beautiful and unforgettable autumn. The nature was breathtaking, the weather was lovely, time with family was precious and God's presence was evident through it all. October, like every other month passed by so quickly and was made up of some moments, memories and ministry I am looking forward to sharing with you.

Life Happenings

If you haven't already guessed it, I spent a lot of time outside in October. Josiah and I enjoyed hikes, brisk walks and spent time just sitting and playing in the leaves. Our son has a fascination with the outdoors which is something I am happy to fuel. Every time we are outside he points up to the sky and is mesmerized by the trees waving in the wind. He is learning his animal sounds and is currently obsessed with chickens. He is also so close to walking and has even taken a couple steps, though not confidently. This is the life of a happy ten-month-old and it is a joy living it with him.

Tyler continues to diligently work construction. I never know if he is going to come home dirty, dusty, painted, sore or all of the above but one thing never changes; he is always walking in the door with a smile on his face, ready to give his son a big hug and his wife a kiss. Tyler also continues his work at the church and is preparing to preach again a couple times before we head to the UK. Along with these simple joys of life there have been some special highlights of October. On the 19th our sweet niece Florence Morgan Heyworth was born (this was definitely the highest high). We have been savoring having family so close and loving the cuddle time with little Florence. In other highlighted news, Josiah finally got his third tooth, Tyler and I went to a fun concert and we took a family trip to a pumpkin patch. In all it was a great month and I am thankful for the memories made.

Ministry Update

Preparation for the UK is moving right along and we are constantly checking off to do lists and making new ones. One of the biggest things for us is that we are about two-thirds of the way through the visa process! There are many steps involved, especially with a family of three. Currently we are hoping and praying that we can finish out everything online. Otherwise, we will have to make a family trip to Chicago where the closest UK visa application center is.

We are also in the middle of brainstorming packing, which involves immensely downsizing all of our things and really prioritizing what we need. In all, it's a lot of thinking, praying, confusion, and problem-solving. Our mission agency has been extremely helpful however, and through all of the processing and questions, we are thankful to have them behind us.

Along with all the physical preparation, there is an element of mental and emotional preparation for leaving as well. There is a lot to let go of in the mind and heart. We pray for the Lord's strength as we think of saying goodbye to those we love, detaching ourselves from some solid and growing relationships and realizing that leaving means you have to say "no" to opportunities you would love to be a part of. Mentally and emotionally pulling away is a challenge for both Tyler and I but we know that the Lord has paved a way for us and letting go of what is in front of us is part of the process of following that way and his will.

As far as support goes, we are still a little bit away from our financial goal. If you are not already partnering with us financially please consider giving now! we would love to have you as part of our team. You can give at this website: https://www.converge.org/global-worker/tyler-aleah-mann

Pray with Us

Thank you for taking the time to read our blog! Many of you have been faithful readers and supporters month after month, and we are so grateful. There's only 2 more blog updates until we're in the UK, can you believe it?!