Graduation and sorting...

Spring, a time of change and unpredictable weather, currently mirrors our lives.

In the two weeks we've been back from Africa we've had plenty of change, ups and downs, and unknowns.

We enjoyed  the spring flowers dotting Calvin's campus while celebrating Anna's graduation but the rain prevented us from meeting any of her professors after the ceremony.

I'm sitting with boxes and stuff as this week's focus consists of sorting, organizing, down-sizing, packing into storage not only our belongings but Anna's as well as she looks forward to moving to California in August.

It can be very stressful predicting what one may want or need in the future when the future remains obscure and full of unknowns. 

However, I find it very therapeutic to let go of items no longer needed and not bringing joy to my life. 

Two loads of clothes, books, and other items donated this week lighten my mood and clear a space in my head knowing that I and no-one else in our family will need to deal with those things again.

It also allows us to remember and share stories together. 'I wondered where this was! I remember.....' 

Cory's pre-school art project brings smiles, old school papers/correspondence bear witness to how much we've learned over the years/decades and how far we've come as people. 

Letting go of items can be hard, and letting go of expectations and dreams even harder.

We'd adjusted to the idea that Fritz and Kris wouldn't be heading to Haiti the next couple of months, and now it looks like Cory will not be able to visit either as gang violence the last couple of weeks has escalated. 

We continue to pray for the Lord to make clear the path He has for us in the months to come. To guide us through the life lessons we need to focus on learning so we can thrive during the unknowns and nudge others to look to the Lord.

We will intentionally attempt to live and experience each day as a gift from God: to make memories, enjoy being a family of five living under the same roof while working to make sure each feels heard, respected, and safe to express opinions and feelings.

Thank you to those who continue faithful support of our family during this time of transition.

Please continue to pray for us.

If you did not receive an email update yesterday and would like to be on our list please let us know! HaitiThede@yahoo.com