We found out over a month ago that Beth is expecting and as of right now, and is about twelve weeks along. Last month the mission doctor visited our center from another region and he brought an ultrasound machine with him. So, we got to see the baby and even see the little heart beating! This was an amazing blessing to be able to see our baby and we were so thankful to the Lord for it. Imagine that, here we are in the middle of “nowhere” and we were able to see our baby earlier that we even saw Jude in the States! God is so good to us!
The due date is June 25, and we’re not sure yet where we will go to deliver the baby, when the time comes. Giving birth in Papua New Guinea is not really an option, as the risks are too high. Because of this we will be flying to either Australia or back to the States to have the baby. At this time Australia is looking like the most logical choice but there is still a lot we have to look into before we make the decision.
For the first few months Beth has struggled a lot with morning sickness but seems to be feeling a bit better in the last few weeks. Please pray for the baby to grow strong and remain healthy, and that Beth will not feel as sick and have good energy throughout the remaining six months! Also, please pray for us as we make some decisions about where to deliver.
Needless to say, we are very excited!
Amanda McCracken says
Congrats!!! We are so happy for you guys! Praying that the right doors open & all the info you need comes in making the delivery plans. Also, praying for a safe & healthy pregnancy! Love you guys! Keep fighting the good fight! Love, The McCrackens!
Laura Rodeheaver says
Congratulations!
chandra bauer says
congratulations!! a new life is always a blessing from god. i will continue praying for your family and for a healthy arrival of your new team mate!! blessings and love
chandra bauer
Darcel Shankle says
Wow! Wasn’t expecting this kind of news from you all! What a blessing! The Lord will lead you in the right direction for delivery. We will be praying for a safe and comfortable pregnancy for Beth! Love you all!
David & Darcel Shankle
Dan Carlton says
We are praying for all three of you, and know that God will show you just what to do.
Love Dad and Cristina
JB & Dave Ripper says
Congratulations!!!
We’re a little late responding – cause I just read your note! Like Ruthie, I had no idea what you meant at first! What a thrill! Beth looks WONDERFUL so I am praying that she is feeling great by now. Jude looks like life in PNG is just the ticket for him – happy and contented little fellow. He is just adorable. Tom, you are quite the man! Great family, great mission. I pray for you and your work, your family, and for God to keep you healthy, strong, encouraged, and mightily in His will, moving his people to his heart.
God bless you all!
With love,
JB for the Rippers 🙂
John and Dana Lochey says
Sweeet! I’m so excited for both of you and little Jude- the big bro!
We will pray for good health, and a safe delivery!!
Love,
the Locheys
Mark Hartfeld says
Wow guys! Way cool! I am so happy for the three of you. Kate and I will be praying for you all now concerning the baby as well as the mission work. Another added prayer request. Hooray! Did you want me to send him a good supply of Taco Bell?
Chuck and Judy Davis says
This is wonderful, a blessing from the Lord. We will certainly be praying for clarity as to where to have delivery. Also, for strength and good health during the pregnancy (for both mom and dad), for the Lord to use this, as He has allowed it, somehow to reach the people of PNG in a special way.
Blessed indeed, in Him
Shelly Jelsma says
Congratulations!! I am so excited for you guys! Jude is so adorable =) and babies are such a blessing!!
Ruth Woodard says
At first it didn’t hit me that it is “our Beth” that is expecting!!
I thought, “Oh, they must have another Teammember named “Beth”!
What was I thinking? Then it hit me! This is Beth and Tom and Jude!!
How exciting! Will be praying as this little one grows strong and look forward to June 25th to hear the news of his/her arrival …….of course, we’d love to see you come back to America to deliver, but the long flight might not be the wisest.
Congratulations!