The Year That I’ll Have 2 Birthdays

My 30th birthday will be quite special. I will have it twice.

Let me explain that.

I will board an airplane in Tanzania on the morning of my birthday in January. I will spend lots of hours on airplanes and in airports. And thanks to the time zones, I will land back in Spokane the morning of my birthday (again).

Now let me explain that.

Over this past summer, the Lord opened many doors that John and I never even considered opening. It started with enjoying a cup of delicious coffee with the missions directors from our sending church and sharing with them that many people have asked us if we’ve ever been to Tanzania and are quite surprised when we say, “No,” considering that we are relocating our whole family there for, well, 15+ years. The response of our missions directors: “Well, we want to go to Tanzania!”

Long story short, the Lord eradicated my “Top 10 Reasons why a short-term trip to Tanzania is utterly unnecessary” list and has opened the door for both John and me, John’s parents, and our missions director couple to travel halfway across the world to see, taste, smell, and experience for 12 days the place we hope to call home soon.

So that’s why I will have 2 birthdays this year.

As the new year and this trip will be here sooner than we think, we truly cherish the prayers of God’s faithful servants. Please pray:

– For the boys, who will be staying with John’s brother and his wife (+ lots of cousins). Pray that they would be comforted in our absence and for our dear brother and sister who are taking on the great responsibility of taking care of 2 more kiddos. We’re thankful beyond words! And yes, let’s be honest, pray for me as well, as the separation is probably going to be harder for me than for them!

– For the Lord to really open our hearts and eyes to what He would have us learn and see during this trip.

 

 

 

Thank you!