A lot can happen in a month

A month ago, I shared with you the news that my visa extension was denied. Since then I have learned a few things.

I have learned that I am part of an amazing community, near and far.

I have learned that I am not going through this alone.

Coworkers and friends!

My neighbors and friends!

I have learned how settled and invested I was in Texas. It takes leaving to recognize what you’ve built.

I have learned how quickly you can wrap and pack up a home and a life. A personal record.

I have learned how organized I am. Pretty impressed if I say so myself!

I have learned that road trips are the BEST thing ever and should always be prioritized.

Last minute road-trip to California!

I have learned the incredible beauty of God’s creation.

Lake Tahoe in California

Picking lemons, so fun!

I have learned again the importance of intentionality.

I have learned that trust and faith are best learned and practiced when we are stripped from security and things become uncertain.

I have learned that time and distance do not have to stand in the way of friendship.

I have learned again to grieve the losses. It takes time to grieve what I have left behind.

I have learned how excited looking ahead can be. The end of a chapter is the beginning of another.

I have learned what I am passionate about, how deeply I believe in the preventative care and support for Missionary Kids.

Preparing our little ones!

I have learned to state my vision and not be afraid to share this.

I have learned how beautiful the Netherlands is.

I have learned how much I have missed cheese, chilly weather, and bikes, to name a few.

The list goes on and on…

Of course, I knew most of these things already. They are more reminders than anything else. It is our choice, however, to recognize and welcome them as reminders.

What is next?

I arrived back in the Netherlands almost two weeks ago. I caught up on some sleep and took time unpacking my bags, knowing I will not be repacking them anytime soon.

Mercy Ships has been incredibly supportive throughout this season. I am able to continue my work remotely from the Netherlands for the next few months. Because my visa was directly linked to my position in Texas, Mercy Ships Holland has stepped in and made it possibly for me to continue in my role through September 2020. I am now receiving a full salary, which I am so grateful for. A two-year commitment turned into 8 years and I could not have done it without your generous financial support and prayer. Your support has made a difference in so many lives!!

You can of course continue to support Mercy Ships, I have seen first-hand that donations are being used well. However, any donations meant for me will no longer be processed directly to me.

At the moment I don’t know yet what will happen after September. Mercy Ships currently has a hire-freeze due to COVID-19. I love this organization and I’m willing to serve them using my specific skills. However, it is in God’s hands and I will go where He leads.

Even though I no longer need monthly donations, I would love to keep you in the loop. I am currently not able to give a presentation like I usually do; however, I will post an update on here as soon as I have more news.

Thank you all so very much for your prayers, your financial support, the many cards, emails, messages, words of encouragement, and so much more. I have been overwhelmed by your thoughtfulness. I hope to respond to each individual message in the next few weeks.

Please let me know how you are doing and how I can be praying for you!