We are so thankful for how well they have adjusted over the past two years. God placed people in our lives who absolutely love our children. There are individuals in Guatemala who have stepped up to the plate to help nurture our children and demonstrate to them the love and joy of Jesus. These people are our village. We do life with them on a daily basis and they are helping us guide our kids morally, spiritually and physically.
How do people love our kids?
* A mature couple who loves them as though they were their very own grandchildren and host special birthday parties for them with homemade pizza and cake.
* One of our pastors and his wife hosted a special Star Wars Movie Marathon (all 7 episodes) at their house. The girls all enjoyed junk food, movie, and spending time with them.
* A young mission team staff gave 15 flowers and sweet gifts to Sophie on her birthday. This Guatemalan said, "This is a very special day in Guatemala (called a quinceanera) and I wanted her to know she is special."
* The director of our fabrication shop often takes Jude out in his work truck to visit different villages, pick up and deliver materials. Jude bombards him with a million questions. They are a wonderful pair!
* So many people speak to Joseph and touch him when we walk into a room. They acknowledge him and love on him appropriately.
* Our girls help translate for teams and work with a group of young Christian adults on our mission team staff. These twenty-somethings are wonderful role models for our children. Our kids see them working to make their country a better place and they witness them sharing the love of God with others who don't know Him. Our kids are being taught, encouraged and loved.
* Sophie and Annabelle have a mentor who meets with them weekly for Bible study and prayer. Their youth group leaders are wonderful!
* There is a young lady, whom Ava Mae refers to as her "mentor," who sings, laughs and plays with her. These two together are funny, silly and full of joy and smiles.
* Susie went back to NC while her dad had triple bypass cardiac surgery recently. Many people stepped up to help Jack and the kids while she was away. Three women from our staff took Annabelle, Sophie and two friends to the city for Annabelle's birthday. Others dropped off food and pitched in to allow Susie time to be with her father during his recovery.
In addition to people here loving on our kids, we have people in the US who frequently check up on us. They ask us how each child is doing individually. They send emails to the girls and they support us in challenging times by encouraging us. I can not describe the complete peace we have; peace comes from Christ. We have such a wonderful community surrounding us.
Proverbs 18:24
A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.
Proverbs 27:17
Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.
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