Fall

(It's still technically Fall, right?)

As mentioned in the newsletter, we moved into a new neighborhood on October 1st.  While we are grateful for our home on the mountainside, it was becoming increasingly difficult for us to do life in such a small space (homeschool, zoom calls, meetings, etc.) and the isolation was also playing a big part in my peace of mind.  Ivan had a big international trip in October and so our hope was to move before that happened, and it did!  God is good, and we found a house for rent, fully furnished, with plenty of room to move around in (and outside)!  It is located inside a gated neighborhood and has 24/7 security guards.  Our favorite feature is the large park that is right behind the house with beautiful trees, paths to walk and a small pond with ducks and geese.  It's only about 30 minutes away from our other home and so we can still go out there on a nice day to enjoy the mountain views.  I've joked that if you were considering visiting us, this is the time!  We have a lovely guest room and spacious home for hosting!

A highlight for us was getting to host the Ecuador Action Team at the end of October.  The Action Team is made up of adults who are financially and spiritually supporting the ministry in Ecuador and helping to advance the vision and mission.  The Ecuador Action Team is a mix of adults from the US and from Ecuador.  We have a monthly zoom call together but this was the first time we were able to all physically meet together and also have the local staff and their families join.  It was a very sweet and encouraging time.  From there, I travelled to NC for an annual women's retreat.  I felt like I had a pre-retreat because I was able to spend a few days with my aunt in NC beforehand.  A bonus was also getting to see my grandmother and parents briefly.  The retreat is always a very life-giving time for me and this year was no different.  I gathered with other North American women who are serving with Young Life in Latin America and we laughed and cried and did some shopping!  Retail therapy is real!  

The doctor's appointment in September with Benjamin did not show the results we were hoping for.  We have another check at the end of March but we are feeling pressure to begin a medication regimen.  (Growth hormone therapy). Continue to pray for us as we research and consider options.  It is something that weighs heavily on us.

This weekend, we will be hosting the annual staff retreat at our house.  Then a few days later, Ivan's family will be joining us for Christmas festivities.  The house will be FULL.  

We are looking forward to some family time as direct ministry in Ecuador takes a break until the new year.  

Come, Emmanuel, Prince of Peace, shine your light in the darkest places.  

Even Luna got a new house! -designed by Benji and Ivan

The park behind our house!

Sunset views in NC

Snuggled up with a book!

First women's retreat without our dear friend. Her message to all was this: "You matter"