Traveling As a Family | Joel and Andi McMartin

God called us to the mission field as a family and so I am convinced that our ministry should happen as a family. This wasn’t our first time traveling as a family, but it was our first time intentionally trying to involve the kids in the goal of our travels. Before leaving we talked with the kids to explain our goals of this trip. We talked about how our goal was to be a blessing to the families we were visiting, so that meant it was about them and not about us. We took the kids shopping to pick out treats for their kids.

The morning of departure finally came

We loaded up our car with supplies for 3 missionary families

I am thankful for expert packers in our family

We left small spaces for the kids to squeeze in

During the car ride I had downloaded some audio books for us to listen to together. My only mistake was not downloading more as I didn’t know that it would work so well! I had to space them out over our 6 days drive as it was one of their favorite car activities.

We stopped along the road each day for lunch

To let the boys get out a stretch a little.

The days in the car were long, but all in all the boys did really well. I had books for them to color in, we listened to silly songs and audio books and they played imaginary games together. I gave them each a blank book for a picture journal of what we did over our time there.

This was Ethan's picture of the tower Joel let him climb up — This was Ethan’s picture of the tower Joel let him climb up

This was one of the 9 boarders stops on the Guinean Boarder

After three days in the car we made it to our first stop…

Our first visit was to a family living in the capital of Guinea

It has been 3 years since our kids had seen each other.

We stayed with them on the church compound where they live — We stayed with them on the church grounds where they live

After three days playing with them, we hit the road again

To connect with two families who live out there

There of course was a lot of soccer as well

It was not just the boys who enjoyed connecting with friends — It was not just the boys who enjoyed the fellowship

It was a lot more work traveling together, but it was worth it. The boys enjoyed the travels even with the long hours in the car. They are learning flexibility – how to sleep and live in many different environments. However most importantly we were able to do ministry together as a family. They were stretched at times, but that is what growing is all about. We came home tired and covered in heat rash and bug bits, but also with some great memories.

More Pictures to come!

Comments

Carolyn Gaupo says

November 6, 2015 at 2:39 pm

WOW, Andi, You and your family never cease to amaze me. I know the Lord is blessing all of you richly and through you all the people your ministry reaches, not only in Africa but here at home too. For my part in that blessing I say thank you. I will continue to pray for all of you and hold you up before my God for nurture, for protection, and for spiritual growth. Keep up the good work and the wonderfully detailed blog that you share with us.
Carolyn Gaupo

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