Shortly after that, in February, we learned that Jeff’s military unit where he serves as an Army chaplain would be deploying in September for a year to the Middle East. Since Jeff had training to complete beforehand, he has been away from us since early July (with a couple quick visits before shipping out in September). He is missed immensely, especially during this holiday season when it just doesn’t feel right to be apart. But we are thankful for the many opportunities this time is providing him to minister to the soldiers’ needs, evangelize the lost, and to serve our country. Here we are saying our last goodbyes early one morning:
Not long after learning the deployment news, we received a sweet surprise of another baby on the way! We plan to welcome baby BOY #4 very soon (Leap Day is the actual due date)! The other 3 boys are very excited about this addition, and Ethan especially grows impatient for the baby to “pop out” as he calls it. They love to feel their little brother moving and have so many questions surrounding the event…it’s been fun experiencing this with them since they are now old enough to understand a little and appreciate the wonder of a new life.
Jeff finished his interim pastorate in May, and then spent June doing military work and getting ready for his many travels. During that time, we started attending a wonderful Word-focused church where the pastor and wife as well as the entire church family have shown us such support and love that is rare to find. We are so thankful for the Lord’s providence in bringing us to this church and hope that we can be half the blessing to the body as they are to us.
Ethan continues to progress in the school for the deaf with his language, speech, and auditory skills. We still have hope that he will become more intelligible in his speech since he has taken significant steps in that direction. Levi is my inquisitive little helper around the house and is so proud when he can assist Mommy in all his little ways. Judah just tries to keep up with his big brothers, which has led to many a boo-boo along the way I’m afraid. He is one tough little guy, and yet he’s still our cuddly one, constantly coming up to give kisses and hugs.
My sister, Sarah, came to stay with us for a couple of months and ministered greatly to me in caring for the boys, cleaning the house, doing laundry, and a great many other details of life. My other sister, Talitha, plans to come for a few weeks to help out when the new baby arrives. So, between their stays here and also our most recent few trips to Arkansas, it has helped to break up the time for the boys and me while Jeff is away. Also, Jeff should be able to take 2 weeks leave around the time of the birth, after which we will have to say bye for a while longer then see where the Lord’s providence takes us.
2 comments:
Wow, Lisa! A lot going on! My heart is very, very full reading your update. Praise the Lord for His provision of employment for Jeff, a home for you all, and four boys who will rise up and call you blessed! :) Praise the Lord also for your helpful sisters! :) God is very good! Love love love to you, dear friend! May the Lord keep you in close contact with Jeff while he's a way and speed up that time, too (but slow it down when he come to visit). You will also have to come see us to break up the time, too, if you can manage it!
I am in agreement with everything Cynthia said. Thank you so much for posting the update and pics of your sweet boys. So happy for you as you get ready to welcome a new baby to your family and I'm glad to hear Jeff will get to be home for the blessed event.
My thoughts and prayers are with you during time while he is away. Praise God for your good attitude.
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