Newsletter Time!

Are you on our mailing list?  Be sure to send us a message with your email at townsendguat@gmail.com if you would like to be added to our mailing list!

Thank you!

Campos De Suenos

One of the most exciting ministries we will be assisting with in Guatemala is helping provide children with clean water and healthy food.  Check out Campos de Suenos and see what God is doing! 

Susie and I are eager to get down to Guatemala and begin working with Iglesia del Camino's building ministry.  July 9 is just around the corner and we are busy preparing our home, packing and putting things in storage.  We are preparing our hearts and the kids' hearts and praying for God's guidance as we make this step. 

Our one time fees are so close to being covered.  Praise God!  We anticipate having 100% of our one time fees paid by January.  At this time, we do need folks to come alongside us with monthly support.  No amount is too small.  $10 a month or $200 a month (or anything in between) would add up.  

We have seen children under 12 years old give $55 out of their savings, we have witnessed retired folks on a limited budget sacrifice $50 a month, and churches have given out of their mission budget.  God has been so faithful.  It has been an honor to be a part of this process.  It's been humbling.  We are thankful.

Would you prayerfully consider making a tax deductible donation before 2013 closes?  Would you consider making a pledge and begin giving a monthly donation? 

We would love to have you join us on this journey to help Guatemalans get back on their feet, build humane living conditions and have easy access to clean water.  

Envelope FUNdraiser Update

This fundraiser is still going really well!  It's so much fun to see envelopes being taken down and sent in the mail!

Envelopes have now been claimed from the tree and each letter of JOY!

These are still available:

12, 16, 28-29, 33, 37-39, 41-43, 46-49, 51-52, 54, 56-59, 61-63, 65-68, 70-74, 76, 78-79, 81-85, 87, 89-92, 94-96, 104-114, 116-127, 129-143, 145-199

TOTAL RAISED AS OF MONDAY, DECEMBER 9:  $2717

Envelope Fundraiser Update

BEFORE:

NOW:

TOTAL RAISED SO FAR:  $2637

POTENTIAL TOTAL TO RAISE:  $20,000

NUMBERS LEFT TO CLAIM:  12, 16, 29, 33, 37-39, 41-43, 46-49, 51-52, 54, 56-59, 61-63, 65-68, 70-74, 76, 78-85, 87, 89-92, 94-96, 104-114, 116-127, 129-143, 145-199

If you would like to claim an envelope, please email us at townsendguat@gmail.com.  

Donations are tax deductible when written to Pathways Community Church and sent to:

Barb DeVictor

1116 Millstream Court

Leland, NC 28451

Guest Post from Grandma (Susie's Mom)

Six years ago, Rich and I were blessed with a granddaughter adopted from Guatemala. We were able to share in the journey by visiting her birth country and getting to know her culture. My daughter Susie and son-in-law Jack fell in love with the people in Guatemala and they are excited to serve at Iglesia Del Camino Church and help Guatemalans build homes and provide safe water through filtration systems. Though it pains us to see them leave on a two year mission, we are thankful for the work they will do and encourage and support them.

We have prayed about how we can help them, in addition to prayer and monthly support. Yesterday we celebrated Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations are now under way. This is a wonderful time of year to remember all we are thankful for and continue to give to those in need. Take a look at the pictures of Jack working with Guatemalans. You can see the pride on their faces, knowing they worked hard to build safe, secure homes for their families.

Please join us on this "Envelope Fundraiser for Guatemala" and consider making a tax deductible contribution before we say goodbye to 2013.

How does it work?

There are 200 envelopes. Each envelope has a number 1-200 labeled on it.

We are asking people to commit to taking an envelope or more than one if you are feeling overly ambitious and super generous. ;)

When you agree to take an envelope, it means that you are volunteering to be responsible for coming up with the dollar amount on your numbered envelope. So, if you have the number 1 you would commit to $1, if you have the envelope 2 you would be responsible for $2, and so on. The highest numbered envelope is 200. So the most anyone would commit to is $200. You choose your number.

All donations will be tax-deductible, and checks can be made out to "Pathways" with "Townsend Family" in the memo field.

***You do not have to come up with the money on your own. Ask your friends and family members to join you. Perhaps you can have your church or small group commit to taking a couple of envelopes, or you could do your own fundraiser.

Your envelope will be sent to you with the number you have requested. It will already have a stamp and our address for you to send your pledge back to us once you have collected it. (We are having them sent to our personal address to collect them all to send them into our 501C together). PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU SEND THEM BEFORE DECEMBER 20 if you would like them to be tax deducted for the 2013 year.

Several people have stated that they thought it would be fun to do this completely randomly. So, you would sign up for an envelope, and I will randomly send you one. You wouldn't know the amount you are committing to (but the minimum it could be would be $1 and the maximum it could be is $200).

Therefore, we have decided to leave both options. If you want to sign up for a specific number, you can put your name in the comments under that number that way we can all keep a tally on Facebook for which numbers are accounted for. If you would prefer that we randomly assign you one because you like the surprise factor, we would be happy to do that too.

I would like to upfront thank everyone for their help with this fundraiser. This fundraiser cannot be a success without each one of you. PLEASE share this fundraiser and invite your "friends" on Facebook. That would be a HUGE help!

Now here is the amazing part....If all 200 envelopes are committed to and returned...this fundraiser would bring in $20,000! Jack, Susie and our grandchildren will be so much closer to their goal after this fundraiser.

And the winner is....

Diane Fontaine!!!!

Thank you to all of our friends and family who donated toward the American Girl Doll Fundraiser.

There were 15 entries, therefore we made $150!

We would like to especially thank Virginia Werner who bought a brand new doll valued at $180 for this fundraiser.  She is by far one of the most giving and sacrificial people we know.  Her heart is huge and she will give all she has for someone in need.

When we think of the love and generosity of so many wonderful people, we give glory to God.   It is a blessing to be surrounded by encouraging people.

Thank you again for joining us on this amazing journey!

PS  The model who picked the winner out of a hat is Virginia's granddaughter in Florida.  ;)

American Girl Doll - CLOSED

The American Girl fundraiser has ended!  Winner to be announced today!

Thank you all for your donations!

THIS is happening. Right now. Very cool.

https://www.facebook.com/events/238061716350434/?ref_dashboard_filter=calendar&source=1


PLEASE check out this link above and be blessed to see God move mountains.  It's the coolest fundraiser EVER!

Basically, there are 200 envelopes.  All of which have a different number from 1-200.  If you pick an envelope, you fill it with cash or check with the amount on that envelope.  You can choose the number or you can have the organizer pick a random number.

You let us know which number you want and we will send you your envelope in the mail with a stamp to send back.  All checks received by December 20 are tax deductible!

Isn't this fun?!?!  Anybody can take an envelope.  Child, stranger, friend, family member, friend of a friend.  There's no obligation to spend hundreds and hundreds of dollars!  You can pick any number from 1-200.

GUESS WHAT THE BEST PART IS????

All 200 envelopes equal to $20,000!  Yes, you read that correctly!  Isn't that incredible!?  Have I mentioned how exciting this is?  If you are on Facebook, I suggest you "join" the event so you can witness envelopes being chosen.  It's fun!  If you are not on Facebook, no problem!  I plan to post updates on our blog often.

A special thank you to my parents who are organizing this online event.  They have been so supportive of our crazy life!  They love us unconditionally and though they say they will miss us while we are in Guatemala, I know they will visit us as often as possible.  LOVE them.

American Girl Doll Fundraiser

https://www.facebook.com/events/541556932594436/

Check this out!

This doll is worth $168.  This includes the doll and two outfits!  All brand new, in box, ready to give someone for Christmas!

A wonderful friend has organized an American Girl Doll fundraiser.  There is a limit of 30 entries so your chances are GREAT!  Each entry is $10 and there are still 20 entries left so let us know how many you would like to enter!

HOW DO YOU PLAY?

Simply send $10 (or more if you want to enter more than once) via Paypal to townsend164@bellsouth.net and type AMERICAN GIRL in the comment section.  Then your name will be added to our drawing!

So exciting and once again, thank you, my dear friend for organizing ANOTHER fundraiser!  Love you!

-------------------->

Have you seen our thermometers lately?

They are looking HOT, right?  It is hard to believe we are extremely close to having our one time fees covered!  Praise God!

So excited to have so many people join us by partnering with us monthly and/or making a one time donation!

$10 a month, $20 a month, $50 a month or $200 a month.  No gift is too small!

Thanks so much, friends!

What's up?!

EXCITING NEWS! 

First, we have a date.  This family is super duper ecstatic about this!  JULY 9.  Yup, that's when we are leaving our home in NC and flying to Guatemala!  AHHHHHH.  The kids are excited, to say the least.

Wait, the joyous news continues!  We have been consistently receiving one time donations and monthly commitments and we thank you all so much!  

Take a look at our financial update:

$118,880 (total fees for 2 years, family of 8 with one trip home for furlough and includes flights, residence fees, etc.)  To see the detailed Guatemalan budget click HERE. 

$18,923 (total raised in one time fees, not including monthly support)

$27,600 (total raised in future monthly fees)

$7,200 (committed one time fees within the next 6 months)

$20,000 (projected Christmas and Spring fundraisers)

$45,157 (TOTAL NEEDED)

What is $45,157?

* $1,881 in monthly payments over 24 months

*  100 people giving a one time fee of $451.50

*  451 people giving a one time fee of $100

*  100 people give $18.80 a month for 24 months

Thankfully, every gift that goes through Pathways Community Church (must be designated for TOWNSEND fund) is tax deductible.  Please consider Guatemala as you near the end of the year and tax season approaches.  

Exciting News and Financial Update

Philippians 4:4

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!

First, we rejoice at how the monthly pledges have been ongoing and steady. Thank you friends for joyfully donating and pledging.  We praise the Lord for His faithfulness and your faith to take the leap and give in obedience!  

Just a few items to discuss.  We have two major fundraisers coming up and we look forward to seeing how BIG God is going to provide through them!  We believe through these two fundraisers and additional monthly supporters, we will be fully funded by June.  

That said, we have made plans to leave Wilmington, NC and fly to La Antigua, Guatemala in the summer of 2014.   

As mentioned above, we need monthly supporters.  It is our joy to serve alongside La Antigua in 2014 and assist the building teams in helping to provide shelter for local Guatemalans who have faced hard times.  This is where our heart is, this is where we believe the Lord is leading us and this is one area where we see Jesus working in Guatemala.  Would you be willing to sacrifice $20 a month or $40 a month to help provide Guatemalans with shelter and safe water?  We understand it is just that - a sacrifice.  Times are hard.  People are without jobs or income.  It is a huge step leap of faith.  Pray about it and let us know.  It would be an honor to have you join us on this journey!  

The total needed to serve two years for our family of 8 is $126, 880.  Why so much? Please read here to see the breakdown of costs.  Please note we have sought counsel with Pastor Mike at Iglesia Del Camino, who has served outside La Antigua for 8 years and knows the people, the costs of living, etc.  We prayerfully tweaked this budget and believe it is accurate. Please feel free to ask any questions regarding finances and we would be glad to speak with you.

Let us know your thoughts!  Give us a call, send a text or email us.

Love you,
Jack and Susie

Lessons Learned Along the Way

We have mentioned in the past how humbling fundraising is.  Over the past 8 years, we have personally fundraised for our adoptions, friends' adoptions and ASOH Orphan Ministry and now to serve in Guatemala.

I have learned a few things about myself through fundraising:

*  It is ALWAYS easier to fundraise for someone else.

*  Sometimes I want to cringe when I post fundraisers for our adoptions/missions.

*  I have absolutely no problem with people fundraising for their adoption/mission/cause.  I encourage it.

*  It is a huge honor when someone asks to host a fundraiser for you.

*  I am determined to find joy in fundraising.  It's a work in process.

*  I have learned more about the WHOLE body of Christ through fundraising.  I have SEEN it.  People enthusiastically donate time, money, and/or talents.  Everyone has a place and together great things happen.

*  God is HUGE.  He is faithful.  He always shows Himself BIG.

*  Few people can give BIG and get it done.

*  Many people can give SMALL and get it done.

*  God makes it all possible.  Matthew 19:26:  Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible."


Are you fundraising?  Have you fundraised in the past?  Let me know about it!  Leave a comment!

ONE DAY ONLY!

Are you familiar with Delicate Fortress?  I absolutely love the mission behind Delicate Fortress.  They are giving women opportunities, giving them a voice and giving them hope!   Human trafficking, enslavement, extreme poverty and exploitation ends with having a voice! 

Taken from the Delicate Fortress website:

We believe women shouldn’t be forced to relinquish or sell their children or themselves in order to allow for their survival.  

We believe in culturally appropriate opportunity, investment and advocacy.

We bet you do too.

So we bring you shopping with purpose.  Each item you find in our store provides dignity, livelihood and fair wages to female artisans all over the world.  We’re fighting for women and their children. Come fight with us.

Today ONLY Delicate Fortress is fundraising for US!  What does this mean?  If you place your order today and use the coupon code TOWNSEND at check out, you are helping women all over the world AND you are supporting our family as we make plans to serve in Guatemala.  We appreciate your help and your support.  Thank you, Delicate Fortress for ALL you do!

Our Peeps!

Thank you Bestul Photography for taking our family pics in downtown Wilmington.  You made it FUN for us!   Blog readers, please "like" Bestul Photography on Facebook and book your photo shoot today!

Here is just a little update on all of our lil peeps!

Where has the time gone?  Sophie is my first baby and she is almost 12!  She is creative and beautiful.  She is humble so sometimes we wonder if she realizes the extent of her talent, love and kindness but the rest of us see it!  

Annabelle just turned 10 this month.  This special girl loves to read and works hard.  She is such a big helper and one of the most loyal people I know.  She loves and she loves hard.  

Ava is 8 and a total goof.  She snuggles like nobody's business.  The first thing she does in the morning is give out "Ava love" in the form of hugs and kisses.  This girl is pure sparkle.  

Jack calls Pearl, "Pearly Squirrel" but the rest of us call her "monkey" because she is always doing gymnastics (self taught) around our house.  Pearl is 6 years old and has the cutest dimples in the world.  Just sayin'.

Joseph Pierre!  Another bright ray to our lives!  Joseph turned 3 this month and has the best laugh of anyone I know.  He is growing leaps and bounds...and the rest of us are growing right along with him.

Jude is the baby of the family, but never tell him that!  He is 2 years old and cracks us up all day long.  He is mischievous and non-stop on the go and has everyone wrapped around his finger.   

Just the Two of Us...

Our dear friends at Bestul Photography, were super kind to take pics of our crazy crew. These are the type of friends we have.  Totally cool, totally generous.

Today I am going to share just one picture with you.  It happens to be my least fave pic of me.  This has NOTHING to do with Bestul Photography (they are amazing!) and EVERYTHING to do with Jack and Susie.  Thirty minutes before pics, Jack and I were driving in two separate cars, going two separate directions.  Not on purpose but because of lack of communication.  This is our REAL life. It's blessed, it's hectic, it's amazing but sometimes it is down right crazy.

Finally we meet up, probably definitely driving faster than we should be, the children are getting dressed in the car and no hair was brushed and makeup applied.  Surely we were going to be an hour late.  My dress was two sizes too small (so thankful for the flare) and I raised my voice more than I should have BUT this is us.

But even though I really wish these sleepless nights didn't show up in the bags under my eyes, these smiles are genuine.  Because I really love my life.

I totally have the best husband in the world.  Yeah, yeah, I know everyone says that but I really do.  He is loving, forgiving and thoughtful and helps out like no other man I know.

After the photo shoot I told some girlfriends about this picture and how I actually hid it from my timeline when Bestul Photography posted it on Facebook.  I was embarrassed by how tired I looked in it.  As I am telling my girlfriends this, they tell me Jack just made it his profile pic.  I want his password ASAP so I can erase it.  I yell down to him and ask him why on earth he put THIS particular pic on his profile and he says, "because you're hot!"  This is my man.  He doesn't see the wrinkles, the tired eyes and the lack of hair and makeup.  He even forgives my lack of communication.  I adore this guy.

Games, Raffles, Art, Music and More!

Saturday night was so much fun!  A HUGE thank you to those who organized the event.  A lot of prep work goes into facilitating a fundraiser and clearly those who planned this event are on top of their game!  Many people we never met before donated prizes and cakes and goodies.  We are so appreciative for support from new and old friends.  It was also a special blessing to hear beautiful music at the concert.   Thank you, Lord for willing people who have a desire to use their gifts and talents to help others.

Birthdays, Firsts and So Much More!

This week we will celebrate Joseph's third birthday, as well as our "three months home" anniversary!

This week was full of FIRSTS.

For the first time, Joseph held a Mum-Mum in his hand.  He also licked it.

For the first time, Joseph licked a Goldfish at church in his hand until it became mush.

For the first time, Joseph stayed in the nursery at church for the entire service.  With mama.  :)

For the first time, Joseph slept in a pack-n-play in our room.

For the first time, Joseph clapped consistently because he was happy.

For the first time, Joseph underwent anesthesia and had a complete eye exam by an ophthalmologist, cornea surgeon and retina surgeon.


How is Joseph handling all of his firsts?

Some firsts are awkward and make Joseph feel uncertain.  That's when he listens to our comforting voices, which make him feel safe.  He hears our tone and finds comfort in our words.  Other firsts can be scary which is an opportunity for Joseph to reach out to us and feel us and use touch to learn that we are here and we love him.  The best firsts to witness are those which excite Joseph!  He throws his arms around and enjoys hearing all of our reactions to his laughter and joy!

Oh, we are so thankful for these opportunities to witness such growth and joy in our three year old boy!

Bling, anyone?

Isn't this gorgeous?!?!  Are you familiar with Tattered and Jeweled?  They are an amazing company which makes beautiful jewelry!  They have generously set up a fundraiser for us!  

For every FAITH necklace purchased, we will receive 55% of the profit towards our Guatemala deputation.  

To purchase, send $18 per necklace plus $2.75 for shipping to PayPal address:  brigitte.brazeal@gmail.com

Please include your name and address and write FAITH NECKLACE FOR TOWNSEND FAMILY in the memo/comment section.  Be sure to mention what length you want your chain to be - 16"-24". Buyers choice!  

If you decide to purchase this for a gift or for yourself, please leave us a comment on our blog or Facebook page!  

Thanks for your support!  

Special Event Coming Soon!!!

Benefit Concert and Raffle for Townsend Family

DATE: September 7, 2013

TIME: 4 pm – 7 pm

LOCATION: Church of the Good Shepherd (Corners of 6^th and Queen Street downtown Wilmington)

DETAILS: Come on out for a great afternoon of fun! Between 4 pm – 5:30 pm, we will have prizes and raffles. Items include a flat screen TV, jewelry, local artwork, Thirty-One, baskets, Usborne books and much more! A concert will begin at 5:30 pm which will include local musicians, singers, and more.

COST: $5 per person or $20 per family (If you are interested in pre-selling tickets, please let us know!)

It's gettin' hot!

Have you seen our thermometers?  Don't they look swell?

We are so thankful for the one time contributors!  Have you noticed we are 1/2 way funded on one time fees?  Very cool!

We also praise God for those that have decided to contribute monthly from now until we return!  A variety of people have decided to jump the gun, so to speak, and make a commitments of $10 a month, $20-$25 a month, $50 a month and $200 a month!  The monthly support is urgent right now and we would love raise that thermometer higher! 

Every little bit helps so if you think you would like to join us on this financial part of the journey, please let us know.  We really appreciate your support through encouragement and prayer and financial resources.

Making a tax deductible donation is very simple.  If you are interested in making a one time donation or if you would like to sign up for a monthly commitment, please go to:

http://giving.iglesiadelcaminogt.com/

Thanks again for checking in.  Please send us a note, email, text or leave a comment here.  We would love to hear from you!

Blessings,

Jack and Susie

From left to right:

Back row:  Joseph, Jack, Jude, Pearl, Susie, Sophie

Front row:  Annabelle, Ava

Remember When....

...two months ago we had a full night's sleep?  That's what I said to Jack two nights ago.   And we busted out laughing.  At 3:00 am.

We occasionally laugh (and cry) about the few hours of sleep we now get a night.  Please forgive me if I never had sympathy for you when your newborns were not sleeping through the night.

I.Did.Not.Understand.What.You.Were.Going.Through.  I do now.  Really, I do.  I am so, so sorry.

I am sorry if you were cranky and I didn't understand why.
I am sorry if you wore two different flip-flops...to church.
I am sorry if you cried in Costco because you couldn't find the bananas.
I am sorry if you sent me a text that was meant for your mother.
I am sorry if you walked out of the house without underpants on.
I am sorry if you didn't brush your teeth until noon.
I am sorry if you drove past your house because you couldn't remember what road you lived on...four times.
I am sorry if you made your child's bottle with the wrong formula at 2:00 in the morning.
I am sorry if you drove two hours in the middle of the night to get your child to sleep...and ended up in Myrtle Beach.
I am sorry if you missed doctor appointments because you still had the calendar set to June...in July.

I am sorry you were tired. I totally get it.

Friends, you know there's gotta be a BUT to this.

Yes, we are tired BUT having Joseph home has changed us in ways we never imagined.  He has changed in ways we never imagined.   He is an incredible little boy and we are blessed to be his parents.

How has he changed?   He's calmer, he's content, and he can be soothed and loved.   He wasn't taking steps, he's now walking.  He wasn't eating a variety of foods, he's now open to eating every variety of pureed food offered.

How have we changed?  We are a family that has united like never before.  When Joseph needs attention, there are 7 people in his family to love him, hold him, or play with him.  We've learned what it is like to have a special needs family member.  We've learned how to answer questions from family, friends or strangers that at first seem awkward.  Together, we are Joseph's advocates.

Almost two years ago, Jack and I felt led to adopt a little boy whose name we believed to be "Jeremaiah."  We weren't looking to adopt and we certainly weren't looking to adopt a special needs child.   I think back to that time when we first saw his picture and profile.   It was like a punch in the stomach. He was meant to be in our family.  No questions asked, no answers given.  He was a Townsend.   Period.  We didn't understand at the time WHY we were supposed to adopt him.  We still don't understand it 100% but slowly God is revealing His plan for the 8 of us.  We are grateful, we are humbled, we are in awe of His great plan.

So today we celebrate Joseph's anniversary of being home two months.  We will watch him smile, listen to his low tone, rumbly laugh and thank God for the past two months.  Sleep or no sleep.  We are family.

It is well.

He is home.

Praise God.  Honor God.  Glory to God.  Our Joseph is home.  I confess, some days I wondered when and if this would ever really happen.  Thank you, Lord, for bringing our son home.

Joseph has been home six weeks.  It has been a wonderful, difficult, sweet, amazing, challenging time of adjustment.

We brought home an almost three year old who didn't talk, walk, or sleep.  Now we have a toddler who is learning to play with toys, babbles, walks with assistance and um...still doesn't sleep.  ;)

I'm amazed daily at how well our four girls and Jude love and nurture their brother.  They are so strong and have showed their beautiful spirits as they learn to care for their brother.  Thank you, Lord, for allowing us to parent these special children of Yours.

Thank you for joining us on our adoption journeys, as well as our journey to Guatemala.  We are so thankful for your continued support and encouragement and Christ-like love.

Tee Sale

We have some t-shirts left! These are not limited to the race we had this week. You can show your support for the Townsend Family by purchasing a t-shirt and wearing it at anytime! Great quality, great price! 

 Sizes we have left: YOUTH: (2) small, (3) medium, (1) large ADULT: (3) small, (5) medium, (3)large, (2) XL Purchase your t-shirt for $20 or two for $30! FREE SHIPPING!

Bridging the Gap

Last night we had our Bridge to Bridge Race Fundraiser.  A special thanks to the Erica Penny and Amy Smith for setting it up, getting sponsors and raising money!

It was a lot of fun and I'm amazed at the runners who came out in 90 + degree weather!  What an encouragement it is to us when our friends come out to support us!

The name of the race was Bridge to Bridge.  Erica designed tshirts to resemble the name of the race, as well as incorporate the Guatemala mission.  Mission work is just like a bridge.  It goes two ways.  We are excited to help Guatemalans build safe homes and clean water filtration systems but we also know we are going to grow and learn from the Guatemalans we work with.  Building bridges, building relationships, building the gap to Christ.  We are so thankful for this opportunity!

Thank you for joining us on this journey,
Jack and Susie

Leap of Faith

What a busy month we have had with fundraisers!  If you look at our thermometers, you will see the one time donations have jumped considerably!  Thank you, friends for joining us on this journey, for stepping out in faith and making a donation.  We are blessed.

We are currently in need of monthly pledges.  We have had friends and family start making their pledge commitments and we are so grateful for the $850 monthly (x 2 years or more) pledges!

Would you consider donating $25 a month?  $50 a month?  More?   Any monthly pledge adds up and is appreciated.

The monthly pledges will be used for our living expenses while we are in Guatemala.  This will sustain a family of 8 for two years.

If you are interested in being a part of our journey, please contact us at townsendguat@gmail.com.  We have had some amazing friends offer to host fundraisers for us, which is another awesome way to help out.  There are lots of creative ways to help.

This is not just OUR journey.  We want you to join us so please check out our blog often and we will be sure to update our journey frequently while we are in Guatemala!

Thank you for showing your faithfulness,
Jack and Susie

Getchyurtee!

Have I mentioned what great friends we have?  Awesome friends created a great tshirt for us to sell as a fundraiser!

How much per shirt?  $20

How much is shipping?  Buy 1-3 t-shirts and the shipping is $3.  Buy 4 or more and shipping is FREE!

How to order?  Place your order on the website below, leave me a message on here or send an email (townsendguat@gmail.com) letting us know how many you would like and what sizes.  http://www.customink.com/signup/3217624v

How to pay?  Please pay via PayPal to townsend164@bellsouth.net

Deadline to order?  Sunday, May 26

Thank you again for your support!

Love,
Jack and Susie

Matching Grant Auction

Wow.

We have a very special family that has offered a $2,000 matching grant.  This family enjoyed the first Facebook Online Auction for Guatemala and suggested we do another one to raise $2,000 which would possibly raise $4,000 for our journey to Guatemala.

HUGE.  HUMBLING.

https://www.facebook.com/events/451095808298370/


How can you help?

1. Donate an item and when the auction ends, ship or deliver it to the winner.

2. Spread the word. Post this event on your wall, invite friends, encourage people to participate.

3. BID!

Online auctions are hugely successful but a warning - you will receive many updates daily. If this is a concern, please change your settings. Thank you for your understanding.

The auction will end on May 18. Payments due by June 1 for those who get paid the first of the month. ;)

Please submit payment to PayPal address: townsend164@bellsouth.net

Thank you and happy bidding!

JOIN THE AUCTION HERE:  https://www.facebook.com/events/451095808298370/

RUN FOR GUATEMALA!!!

We have the most amazing friends in the world.  Hands down.  I've always thought of Barnabas in the Bible as a great friend, an encourager.  Our friends are encouragers and supporters.  Our friends are just like Barnabas.

Time and time again, friends are asking how they can help fundraise for our journey to Guatemala.  A group of amazing Barnabases are planning our next fundraiser.

On June 13 at 6:30 PM, there will be a team of people running/walking a 1.0 mile race and a team running a 4.0 mile race in downtown Wilmington.

These amazing runners/walkers are getting friends and family to sponsor them and donating all their proceeds to our Guatemalan journey.

How can you help?

1.  Run along with us and get sponsors!  If you would like to run, sign up here:  http://its-go-time.com/event-registration?ee=68 and also let us know so we can include you on our team.  The cost of the race is $25 (4.0 miles) and $20 (1.0) plus $10 for the discounted cost of the team t-shirt.  Then go out and get sponsors!  Sponsorship forms will be provided so let us know as soon as you sign up and we will send you information.

2.  Sponsor our team.  Support an individual runner or the team as a whole!

3.  As always, pray for us.  Pray for a safe race for all of the runners and walkers, pray for God to be glorified and pray for this to be a successful fundraiser.

4.  Buy a t-shirt!  For non-runners the t-shirt is $20.  Shipping for out of the area buyers is $3 for 1-3 shirts and free shipping on orders of 4 or more shirts.  Place your order on the website below and send payment to PayPal townsend164@bellsouth.net.  http://www.customink.com/signup/3217624v

Thank you!

How can this possibly work?

We copied this from a friend who shared our blog on their Facebook wall...

$7 a day...

If you haven't heard by now, the Townsend's are beginning a mission to Guatemala. We are asking people to partner with them by putting aside $7 per day.   

Why seven? Let's have fun with this.  Seven is a significant number in the Bible (signifies completion, perfection, fullness) and $7 a day would add up quickly!  If twenty people donate $7 a day, the Townsend family would be set with their monthly costs!  

With the "fullness" of your support, the Townsend family would be able to move forward on this path. We understand that it will happen in His "perfect" timing. Therefore, their departure is dependent upon full funding.  

If you'd like to help, you can set up your monthly contribution ($7x30 days =$210 a month) or the amount the Lord leads you to donate at: 

http://giving.iglesiadelcaminogt.com/
Or
http://toguatemalawithjoy.blogspot.com/

James 1:22

Guatemala ver1 from Reisbord Cinematography on Vimeo.

James 1:22 22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. Thank you, Reisbord Video!

Take a Deep Breath...

 Philippians 4:19

And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.

After months of figuring and re-figuring and asking for advice from other missionaries in Guatemala, we have compiled a projected budget for our two year journey.  

We share this with you for a number of reasons: 

1.  You will know how to specifically pray for our financial needs.

2.  You can pray for God to show you how you might be able to specifically help us with our financial needs.

3.  You can come alongside our journey and be a blessing to many!  

4.  Watch the Lord do a mighty work and give Him all the glory along the way!   



FAMILY OF 8 (two years projected)

Monthly

Living Expenses (rent) - $1000
Utilities - $500
Driving (bus/tuktuk, etc.) - $200
Food/Necessities - $800
Schooling/Supplies - $600
Medical Needs - $200
Giving/Taxes - $820

Total Monthly = $4,120 (monthly x 24 months = $98,880)


Residency Fees - $16,000
Flights - $12,000
Total 24 Months = $98,880


TOTAL NEEDED TO RAISE = $126,880

 Psalm 69:30 

 I will praise the name of God with song, And shall magnify Him with thanksgiving.

What about the kids?

We have had awesome opportunities to share our journey to Guatemala with many of you.  As always, we encourage you to ask questions.   As many of you know Jack will gladly welcome the opportunity to share his heart for this mission with you!  Susie, too!

The most frequent question we receive....what about the kids?  With five, soon to be six kids, they each see Guatemala differently. 

SR is our oldest and she is 11.5 years going on....16.  ;)  She is looking forward to going to school in Guatemala and meeting friends.  SR is extremely creative and LOVES art.  Her only real concern with moving to Guatemala is missing out on her art classes.  We think she will pack more art supplies than clothes.  ;) 

AJ is our 9.5 year old daughter.  She is extremely helpful around the house and definitely the little mama of her siblings.  Along with her sisters, AJ took Spanish classes this summer in Guatemala and absolutely loved them.  She picked up the language very quickly and often times we would ask her to translate!  She looks forward to improving her language skills.  Upon our arrival in Guatemala, she has requested to see her Spanish school teacher, whom she loves!  AJ also has a heart for those less fortunate.  Her desire is to work with orphans or children during our time in Guatemala.

AM just turned 8 and is full of life!  She has so much joy and more energy than anyone else we know.  ;)  She loved Guatemala and is eager to make friends when we arrive.  AM tells us she is excited to walk around town, like we did often this summer.

PE was adopted from Guatemala at 7 months old.  Returning to Guatemala and learning more about her birth country was an exciting experience for her, as well as for the entire family.  PE is 6 years old and she has a great, positive outlook on moving to Guatemala.  She is looking forward to going to church at La Iglesia Del Camino.  She enjoyed her Sunday School class while we were visiting this summer.  She especially enjoyed "tricking" her teacher who believed she spoke Spanish!  It is our prayer that she really will learn to speak it over the next few years!

SJ just turned 2 years old so he has yet to express his opinions regarding Guatemala!  :)  He is so easy going and adapts to new situations easily and we expect no less when we move.  SJ brings cheer to our home and we look forward to seeing him reach milestones in Guatemala and prayerfully share a love for the country, just as the rest of us have.

JJ will be our newest addition to the family!  While the girls are at school in Guatemala, much of Susie's time will be spent with the boys.  Her biggest role will be bonding with JJ and running after these precious two year old boys! 


Our children bring us so much joy.  We are blessed to be able to take them to Guatemala and share this beautiful nation, culture and community with them.  Our prayer is for them to draw closer to their Savior during our time in Guatemala and find opportunities to share His love with others. 

As always, thanks for joining us on our journey!

Love,
Jack and Susie

A special thank you to Bestul Photography for taking family pictures for us! 

Home is where the heart is...

What is a home?  A home is a place that provides shelter, refuge and residence.  More importantly, it is often a safe environment that provides sanitary facilities, a place to prepare food, and gather for fellowship.

Many village structures outside of La Antigua, Guatemala are built with bamboo or corrugated sheet metal.  These homes not only provide little sanitation, they also do not fare well in the weather elements.   

  Bamboo and Corrugated Sheet Metal Homes

I was blessed to work with the building team at Iglesia Del Camino this past summer.  Each day I had the opportunity to spend a few hours working beside local residents constructing metal frames that would eventually replace bamboo or corrugated sheet metal homes.  This mission is to help Guatemalans build homes, not structures.  

 

House Design 12' x 16'

During our two year commitment to Guatemala, I will be assisting the building team with constructing metal homes, as well as home additions, church facilities and installing water filtration systems.  

 Working with Local Residents Summer 2012

Iglesia Del Camino is also partnering Iglesia Bautista Aposento Alto in Santa Maria de Jesus (SMdJ) to establish a feeding center named Campos Desuenos, to help Guatemalans change the course of malnutrition and stunted growth in the community.  Right now this center is in the beginning building stages.  When the center is complete and the water filtration system is in place, it will accommodate 350 children in the nutritional program.  Beyond meals, Campos Desuenos plans to eliminate the elements that have stunted generations of growth in the indigenous folks of Guatemala. Nutrition is important but Campos Desuenos is working towards good health, education, economic stimulus and showing the love of Christ to this community.  

I am beyond excited to get started helping with these building projects.  It was a pleasure to work beside local residents, getting to know their hopes and dreams for their country and sharing God's love.

Working with Short Term Mission Teams (Installing Homes)

We would be honored to have you partner with us on this journey:  http://giving.iglesiadelcaminogt.com/.

Blessings and joy,

Jack