Welcome Home!

Saturday morning began early for our family as we prepared to move to Ponderosa Bible Camp. Rising at 5:15 in the morning is not out of the norm for me, but this day brought with it an anticipation and excitement that I can't put into words. Of course, Chris and I had stayed up way too late working on finishing touches of packing and trying to straighten and clean a bit so as not to leave the house in complete disarray. Chris had to make an early morning run to his business partner's house, so I showered and got ready. As I finished a few things up, I heard a scream come from downstairs. "Woo Hoo....Today is the day...Wake-up Braeden, it's finally here," were the shouts I heard from the boys' bedroom. I walked down to see Caleb with a gigantic grin on his face trying to wake Braeden so he could share in the excitement that the day had finally arrived! They slept in their clothes, due to the late night we'd had the night before, so teeth were brushed, hair was brushed, and shoes were on in record time. Bouncing around the house, it was hard to explain that we had to wait about 45 minutes before the Stone Family would arrive to help us pack the last few things. They helped me take a few things out and shove them into our already very full van. Then GiGi arrived in a surprise visit. She came bearing drinkable yogurts and Go-Gurts for all 3 children. She was a hit!!! They were bouncing around on the driveway, eating yogurt, and telling GiGi all about moving today. The Stone Family arrived promptly at 7:00 and we quickly began to load the back of the truck and pack Laura's SUV. What began as 3 vehicles just a few days before had become 2 trucks, 1 enclosed trailer, 1 van and 1 SUV. I am not sure how we would have made it without every inch of space God provided! What a precious home group family we have to ensure we are being obedient to God's calling by helping us move to camp! Very quickly things were loaded, two final walk throughs were made to pick up those last few items, and a wonderful time of prayer in the driveway was had before setting out on the road. The caravan was quite a sight to see. I spent the time on the road talking to sweet friends, praising Jesus for His provisions, and crying (the ugly cry) about this path to full-time missions. It seems as though we have been praying for such a long time about this, yet in reality, this is truly a short period of time in light of eternity. I have dreamed about the day we would pull through the gates at Ponderosa and truly call it home. Every part of the trip felt just right. This peace is only given through a trust in our Lord and Savior and the assurance that we are being obedient to His will for our lives. It was just as I imagined it would be...pulling through the gates, traveling down the gravel road to what has been known as the nurse's station, and backing in to unload was AWESOME! Several of our new neighbors greeted us with hugs of happiness and sweet signs on the doors welcoming us home. There is so much more to say and many stories to tell; however, the words are beginning to jumble. The remainder of the day was somewhat of a blur with unpacking and preparations for camp beginning just after lunch. We are still slowly but strategically organizing (understatement if you know me at all) and ensuring everything has a place in our home, but it will get there in due time. Thank you for your continued prayers for our journey and this ministry. We are very blessed by those who are going with us!

Less Than A Week Away...

So much has happened since I last posted.  At some point, hopefully soon, I will be able to blog about the many spiritual markers in our lives over the last year.  God's timing is so perfect and although we felt the calling and desire to GO last year, He had other plans for us!  This year has brought so many lessons and preparations for what is yet to come.

Now, we are less than a week away!  My resignation has gone through the board of education, Chris has sold his business, and we are packing up the necessities.  The boys have been counting down for months and moving "forever" to the Ponderosa brings a smile to both their faces.

Now, as the day approaches when we will move some necessary furniture and clothes for the summer, things are really gearing up!  We move Saturday and camp begins Sunday.  Our family will be serving together doing whatever is needed.  I can't believe it, the day is almost here.

With all hustle and bustle of packing, we don't want to lose sight of the goal.  Our prayers are for the children, teens, and young adults who will attend Ponderosa this summer.  No matter if they are campers, TEAM Members, SALT Members, Counselors, or full-time staff, our intention is to deliberately share the gospel, serve others, and encourage the development of a stronger, more personal relationship with Jesus Christ.  As we work on the last few details of actually, physically getting to camp, my prayer is that we will keep our hearts, minds, and eyes on the goal...

Thanks for following us on this journey.  I ask for you to pray with us for those attending Ponderosa Bible Camp.  I hope to post more often and will work to share what God has done along this path...

Thank you for your continued prayers and support!
Gina