The past year has been both challenging and rewarding. After arriving in Spokane, we stayed with my Mom and Dad for 2.5 months. We were able to celebrate our first Thanksgiving and Christmas together with them and my brother and his family, which was a dream come true for all of us! In mid-December God blessed us with the opportunity to rent a home about 30 minutes from town in a small farming community. There we met another family of 6 who lived just up the street and became fast friends. This was an answer to prayer for both families, and we are thankful for the friendship and fellowship God so graciously provided with the Kauffmans!
Not long after arriving in Spokane, Sean and I participated in a Foster Parenting Course, and I attended the Orphan Summit later in the Spring. The Lord has been speaking to us about fostering for years, and we are still waiting on Him to show us how, where and when. We submitted the preliminary paperwork, but a few obstacles have presented themselves. We know when it is His timing, He will make it happen! Here is a powerful short film on the positive impact foster care can have in a child's life:
In August, the Lord opened up an opportunity for us to move back into the city of Spokane and stay with a lovely couple from our church. Ben and Emily have opened their hearts and home to us and have made us feel so welcome! We are so blessed to be able to share meals, fellowship and LIFE together. We are very thankful for this haven of rest God has provided once again in our time of need.
Sean was able to return to Kenya for 9 weeks to continue work with the disciples there, and also visited our church family in Australia for 3 weeks in the Spring. Both trips were very fruitful and our Father used them to teach us so much about the ministry in Kenya and His plans for His people there. Sean is currently preparing to return to Kenya, but one thing we have been learning is the essential of waiting on God. His plans and timing are perfect! "We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps." Proverbs 16:9
In the meantime, my Mom's condition has remained pretty stable. Her last tests actually showed the breast tumors are shrinking! In July, Mom was able to go to California to encourage a friend of hers who is also in Stage 4 cancer. We are so thankful for God's mercy and grace in her life and are making some wonderful memories with her. Looking forward to spending another Thanksgiving with my family!