thoughts...

Thanks to Chris, packing is getting there and things are getting cleaner (as you can see on his blog). I am still working at the hospital up until we leave, which does not leave much time for me to go through stuff. It is sometimes overwhelming to come home and see all my homey things gone! I am emotionally trying to adjust to the idea of leaving and most of all: being a missionary.

Some days I feel like Jonah. I know what God is calling me to do, but I just want to run and hide. I don't want to face the reality. I feel inadequate.

Other days I am excited and feel like Paul or Moses. Those days I smile because I know the blessings ahead and the adventure and memories we will make. I have courage.

So what else is going on? Well... (as you can see from Chris' blog - he beats me to the news)

My brother Doug had a baby girl, #3 for them. Her name is Annaliese Hope and she weighed in at 9lb. 2oz. Because I was excited, and we weren't TOO far away (hour and half by plane) we flew there last weekend to see her. It was very special be a part of a family event. I cherish them even more as I know I have to leave.

We are also attempting to plan the next 6 months.... where we will be support raising, and for how long... and all the small details. So far we think after heading to Nampa and our family reunion in Colorado we may just come back to Vancouver and start here.

guess I better get back to the boxes...

Joy

Thanks Crosspointe...

I will very much miss my friends I have come to know this past year. Tonight, the ladies from church took me out to dinner to Cheesecake Factory to say "goodbye." I love our Church and it is very hard to leave such great people. They have been so supportive which has been such a huge blessing. It is nice to feel such love and be encouraged.

Sunshine!

This weekend has been absolutely beautiful! I just love it here when its sunny; it makes me so happy. I guess it is the california girl in me.

Over the weekend we were able to hike to the top of Multonomah Falls. It was such a great break from work and so beautiful. We were there when the sun was hitting the falls just right and a rainbow was across the falls. It was a great reminder of God's promises to His children. He is faithful.

Just a few miles from our our apartment is Vancouver Fort, and Pearson Airport. They have a great trail that takes you around the area and over to the River. It was nice to get some exercise and soak up more sun.

It sounds like this weekend has been all fun and games but not really. Aside from packing and saying some goodbyes, I am also trying to learn how to drive a stick-shift. We bought a new (well at least new to us) car. It is NOT automatic, which are the only kind I have ever driven. Chris decided it was high time I learned as most likely it will be a skill needed overseas. It has been quite the adventure as I sputter and clunk at stop signs. Chris is a good teacher and while I am far from perfect, I am getting better.

Here are some more pictures:

major changes

Hello all,

I figured it is about time to start my own blog as we are beginning to embark on a new life and now have the title: "missionaries." I'm sure I will have a lot on my mind!

We are beginning the first stages of moving(packing) and coming to terms with the reality of what lies ahead (well at least I am trying). In a short time my lovely apartment has gone from cozy to cluttered with boxes and stuff everywhere! We will be moving out of our apartment because for the next several months (6?) we will be traveling to gain "ministry partners." Not having a "home" will be an adjustment so please pray for me.

I also have to quit my maternity job. I am very very sad as I LOVE the people I work with and enjoy what I do. This has been a dream job for me. But I also know that God has great things in store for me and can use my love of people anywhere.

In the midst of all the Chaos, life is good. Chris is taking care of a lot of the details and packing, while I finish up my last few weeks of working.

I just have to mention, too, that Chris is great at surprises! Monday I ended up working late because of a crazy day at work. He offered to "cook" dinner. He surprised me with chinese food arranged onto plates. In the center of the table was beautiful pink tulips he had put into a vase along with a few candles lit for a special dinner. He scored lots of points.

thats all for now...

Joy