Grandma in Brasil

I get sad when I think about Gabriella's and Caleb's both sets of grandparents living so far away. They miss out on so much...emails, letters, phone calls, and pictures just don't compare to the real thing!

Bella being very observant has noticed that all of her little friends have a grandma. "Where's my grandma?" She asks on a weekly, or bi daily basis. We explain to her that her Nana lives in Canada and Grandma lives in Brasil. I think she understands but isn't satisfied with our answer. "Why can't we go and drive there? or Why can't she just come on a plane? She should come for lunch..." is her ready response. Distance has no meaning to her... but I can hear the heartache she is experiencing in her sweet voice.

Grandma wrote them an email yesterday that helped ease her longing, if only for a day. I thought you would enjoy it!

'A surprise for Gabriella and Caleb'

Dearest Precious Gabriella & Caleb,

This is your Grandma! I love you and miss you. Grandma drew this picture for you.

Hugs & Kisses,
Grandma

Funny Bella

I sometimes wonder what actually goes on in my daughters mind...

Mommy: Bella look at that beautiful dog

Bella: (Grabbing onto my legs) It's going to bite me!

Mommy: No honey it won't, it is a nice dog.

Bella: No Mommy, he wants lunch!!!

Hahaha! What a kid.

Afternoon Trip

On a whim, we decided to take a drive to find a special place. It was as spontaneous of a trip you can get with toddlers. I mean they HAD to have a nap first, and we HAD to pack extra clothes, and diapers, and towels and....

We only drove about an hour out of the cities before we found a beautiful state park. We were delighted that this park had a shallow sandy beach for the kids to play in. There was even fish swimming around nibbling on all of our toes! Michael attempted to catch one but they were too fast!

On the way home we stopped at a cute fish restaurant with an outdoor patio facing the lake. The food was delicious, the kids worn out and content, and we actually had a calm meal!

This mini trip made us extra excited about going to a cabin. There is a possibility that it may work out for this weekend! We will keep you posted!

Caleb

Today Caleb is sporting a deep blue and purple bruise on his knee. It is huge, and worries me. But he thinks it is pretty cool. How did he get it? It remains somewhat of a mystery.

He could have fallen on something. He can be quite clumsy. He is always hurting himself. But my motherly instinct tells me that Bella probably has something to do with it. She is always "hurting his feelings" as she puts it. We are trying to teach her how to control her natural urge to push, and strike back if she is bothered by her brother's antics. But to her defence, he isn't as innocent as he looks, he is very quiet about antagonizing her. He will steal her baby, pinch her leg, and grab onto her shirt without saying a word. I feel like I am a referee, constantly breaking the two of them up.

But of course there are the times that they play nicely together. Bella directing the play of course. They sit together long enough for me to do my devotions, put away the folded clothes, or start dinner. I like spying on them, they are so cute, and funny this way. Caleb admires his sister and delights in being able to be with her. Sometimes she will warn him about something dangerous, and he will obey her. My favorite is when she will say, "Come here Caleb let me have you" and obediently he toddles over, plops on her lap, and she will awkwardly hold him for 20less seconds.

Bedtimes together the past week have been interesting. They talk, laugh, and shriek at each other until 9pm or later. Our warnings have been ignored and they continue their fun. Once Michael went in and found ALL of their books in Caleb's crib, and another time I went in and found Bella in his crib! Sometimes Gabriella will steal his beloved blankie, and lion.... the little stinker! But he has repaid her by accurately hitting her in the head by throwing his sippy cup out of the crib! We can only sit in the living room and laugh despite our desires for them to go to sleep. Sigh... these times are so fleeting.... they are growing so fast!

I am sorry that we haven't included many pictures lately. Truth is I am enjoying the moments too much to run and grab the camera. I will try to include some later.

Garbage man

Michael has a bad habit of throwing out things that are important in our house.
I can't really blame the guy since he is the only one that actually takes the trash outside... without being asked... yes ladies... my husband is amazing...

But everything comes at a price...
So far he has thrown out my wallet, which contained very important papers, and i.d.
Gabriella's shoes
Bella's new expensive "cafe" cup ( that is a whole other topic!)
And last night my cell phone... our only phone.. oh no!

He came home last night and stated that it was time for us to get new phones...
Why? I asked. My phone is fine...
Well... he said... I kinda threw it...
What? Did you break it?
No... it works fine, I threw it in the trash... it was in my hand... and then it wasn't...he sheepishly admited!

Hahahahahah! I can only laugh! Poor guy..he has such a bad track record!
So I can't call you anymore...please email us if you need to reach us... we hope to get a new phone soon...

All in a day

I don't have a ton of time to write so here is the short order of our day:

1. Woke up at 7am and actually got a shower with Caleb still sleeping! What a rare treat!

2. After breakfast I allowed my children to be bored this morning. I sat with them in their room, read a good novel and drank hot coffee ( also a rare treat) ! They used their imaginations along with pulling out every toy in their closet. I was surprised that they could have fun without mommy conducting play! Maybe we will be bored more often!

3. A friend, Noemi, dropped off her daughter to play while she went to a funeral for her best friend's Dad. She ended up staying for lunch before she left. How comforting a heart to heart can be over grilled cheese and ketchup. And Adriah, you delight me! I can't stop smiling from all of your sweet hugs. I love you, and I love how you love my Bella Bella!

4. Caleb is going through a rough few days. We quit "numma nums" (nursing) and we both are sad about it. Poor guy, he wasn't expecting to be cut off and neither was I...

5. It's my mom's birthday. Happy Birthday Mom! I have to admit that I did call her, but not to wish her a good day... I didn't know what date it was. Ooops, sorry mom! I really need to get out of the house...

6. Speaking of outside... I guess it was really hot today... I wouldn't know...is it really summer?
Air conditioning is wonderful isn't it!

7. Lastly I decided to write a list of the things I let my kids do so I can talk on the phone. I think you would be surprised what I would do for a few mins of adult conversation. I don't think Caleb was too happy about Bella rubbing bar soap in his hair today so I could just finish up on the phone. Ooops.... Also I am still finding kix in odd places from a few weeks ago when they dumped an entire box on my bedroom floor!

Words from a Tot

Before bed last week, Gabriella and I were sitting on the couch. She was engrossed in her doodle pad, and I began asking her questions. Our conversation went like this...

What's your name?

Bella...

Where do you live?

Minnesota...

When's your birthday?

November 9th...

How old are you

Two and a half...

Where does grandma live?

Brasil...

Where does Nana live?

Canada

Where were you born?

Hospital...

Where was Daddy born?

uhhh... the sink... (really?)

Where was Tia Michelle born?

The Zoo!

The Zoo?

yep the zoo.....

Sorry Michelle... I don't know where she got that idea from.. we have since corrected her!

Life

I am sitting here wanting to cry, but really the tears won't come. My heart feels too heavy, too tired to let go...

I want to cry for the Morrisons who said goodbye to Lucia Rae on Sunday, their little light who went to be with Jesus. Ryan and Brianna's strength, amazes me. I am proud of them for they truly know what it means to lie their children in the hands of the Lord. Dear Little Sylas, may you be strengthened by your parent's faith, and comforted by God's presence.

My heart is heavier still for those close to me who don't know Jesus, or worse yet, for those who know Jesus but daily choose to reject Him. There is no peace, no real meaning to life without Him. What words do I speak so they may hear God's voice? I do not know... so I pray, and I wait, and I hope that today they lay down their life, before tomorro is too late.

At the same time my heart rejoices for Sarah and Rubens. For God has given them a new life. A child. What an amazing gift. Already this little one has given them great joy, and so many others.

My heart is full for my own babies napping. Lord, may they grow to truly know you, and may they love you with great passion and zeal. Use Michael and I to teach them your ways, may our example correctly lead them. And Father when they come to the crossroad of decision may they choose you.

Redecorating.. a home is more than a house

Some of you live too far away to be a guest at our home so I included a little glimpse of our house. One of things Michael and I enjoy is home decorating. It is so fun for us to see a room transform from an idea we had. I just LOVE creating a comfortable, peaceful atmosphere for my family to live and relax in. Michael and I work well together, our ideas rarely clash, and the outcome of our projects are pleasing. We are drawn to simplicity and color.

Since Michael and I have been married we have been in constant transition. This current home has been the longest we have stayed put. We wanted to give the kids a sense of stability before uprooting them once again to move overseas. I have found that no matter how long we are to be in a location, making it a home is vital to feeling settled, and it is easier to focus on the present rather than the future that lies ahead.

We have found ways to paint and decorate at very little cost. The Home Depot sells "oops" paint for $1 a litre, or $5 a gallon. It takes a little patience to wait and find the returned paint, but the result is worth it. Ikea clearance has also become our friend. We have found lamps, picture frames, and furniture 50% to 75% off. The key is just looking and waiting.

This past weekend we redid our bedroom for under $50. The idea for it began last May when we moved in. I was dreaming of a serene, romantic getaway for Michael and I. We are more than pleased with the results.

After putting away the paint, I turned to Michael and said, "Now we can be done with the house." He readily agreed. But just this morning I was thinking of a new idea for our entry way... after all we still have 9 more months here.

Please feel free to stop by! We love having our family and friends come.

My stranger...

We had a really late night, we came home from a friend's birthday party at 11pm and plunked the kids to bed. They were exhausted, having no real naps earlier that day and skipping their 7 o clock bedtime had done them in. As I shut their bedroom door I smiled. " Hmm, it is so nice that I can just lay them down and they are out for the night!"

I shouldn't have been so confident. Caleb was awake from 1am to 4am crying, and screaming, for no apparent reason. Michael and I took turns trying to reason with ( HA!) and comfort our sad/mad little boy... to no avail. Finally at 3 am , I flicked on our bedroom light, set him on our bed, gave him his orange ball, and said "Here, have fun!" Michael grunted, turned over on the bed rather annoyed and tried to sleep. Caleb oblivious to the havoc he was creating, slowly adjusted his red, puffy eyes to the bright light, and grinned the most silly impish grin I've ever seen. "Bah, Bah!" he said clutching it for dear life, his shoulders still shaking from crying so hard!

"You little stinker" I thought. No longer feeling sorry for him, selfish pity began to rise in me. "There is nothing wrong with you, Bah, is all you wanted?" For a second I considered leaving him with Michael and crawling into his crib to sleep!

But I didn't, instead until almost 4am I sat with my funny little monster, he took turns snuggling with me, the ball, and his Daddy's back. He began crying again when the ball fell off the bed, so I decided to put him back in his room. It was obviously a power struggle because the min I set him down he started to whimper. "Fine, you win..." Picking him up again I sat on the rocking chair and held him close until his body felt heavy and his head rested on my shoulder. After awhile I felt warm drool slide down my shoulder... mmm how nice. His hair smelt like sunblock and I was brought back to what a older man said to me and a friend as we were walking our babies through a park. Passing us, he tipped his hat, and said," You ladies are what makes the world go round." What a compliment and encouragement from a stranger. I doubt he knew that I would be pondering his comment so early the next morning...

Or maybe he did know, maybe he was an angel in disguise and knew that pretty soon I was going to be having a late night playdate with my son, and later on that morning would be cleaning up poop , my clever little boy had smeared ALL over himself, his crib, and sheets. ( A new discovery for him by the way!)

His words will always have a place in my heart, because they were honest, kind, and heartfelt. Sometimes all a mom needs to get through a rough 24 hours is a few comforting words from a stranger, or a friend.

A Family Retreat

Yesterday morning Michael emailed me from work saying that he felt our family was in need of a break from this crazy city life. While working he had glanced upon the book, "In the quiet places" and was reminded of what it was like to be in a serene quiet place.

Sigh... isn't that what we all need sometimes? A break from the busy life we all lead, leaving behind bills, phone calls, deadlines, t.v. , house work, car repairs, and the list goes on and on!

So the mad search has begun. We have been looking everywhere near and far to go for a few days. We are imagining a simple, small cabin, in the woods, by a sandy lake. A place where we can re-energize, relax, watch our kids imaginations grow, and spend time with God. The options are endless, our cash flow limited, but we are trusting that we will find the perfect retreat.

If you have any ideas let us know!

Visitors

This weekend was a whirlwind of activity. We had friends of ours from college and their two little girls stay with us for a few days. It was spontaneous, fun, loud, and busy! It was great to reconnect, relive old Bethany days, and see their beautiful girls.

Their daughter Jadelyn is a few weeks older than Bella. It was adorable watching them play and follow each other around the house. It reminded me sweetly of being little and playing outside with my childhood friend Thora; coming in to eat hot dogs and chips, watching movies, sharing secrets, and having disputes about whose turn it was to play with that favored toy.

It also made me appreciate all the work my Mom did to entertain our playmates growing up. She would always go above and beyond, taking us horseback riding, making us special lunches, and letting us talk late into the night. She never complained about the noise or the mess.

Instead she delighted in my friendships and encouraged us to have fun.

I was sad to see our friends go. Because their life is in China and ours in transition, you never know when the the next visit will be. It makes every opportunity to see each other special.

Just like Daddy!!

I absolutely adore the way our son admires his father. From the minute Dada walks in the door, Caleb runs to him, stops half way, and says "Bah Bah" (ball) He then turns in another direction and runs (usually falls on his face) looking for the nearest ball to throw at his Daddy. This is always followed by wrestling, tickles, boxing, and lots of laughs. Until bedtime Dada is the favored one. Caleb waddles after him constantly, and Michael loves the attention I'm sure.

I can just imagine the mischief the two of them are going to cook up in the future! And talk themselves out of!

The two of them are very similar. Michael is hard to read, quiet (well most of the time), laid back, has a fun sense of humor, and just loves being with family and friends. Caleb is the same, he is Mr. cool man that roams our home, laid back, loves to eat, and also difficult to read. Sometimes I think that Caleb is bored or grumpy but he is really just relaxed having a good old time. Just like his Daddy! Bella and I really love our boys!

A true friend sticks closer than a brother...

How grateful I am that my kids have great friends to love...nothing like an evening in the park and a fun bath!

My love

It was just one of those days that nothing was going right. The kids were in a non cheery disposition, the house just wasn't put together, and if I didn't slam my hand in the cupboard, I stepped on one of those ABC blocks that just happened to find my foot.

When Michael came home I was exhausted and at my end. As usual he saved the day.
With him wrestling the kids on the floor I was able to go lay down in our room and savor some good reading time. Afterwards he loaded all of us up and we went for a long drive. There was a cool breeze and the sun was shining, just the thing I needed. I found myself relaxing and enjoying the company of my family. He treated us to a dinner out, originally planned for celebrating his new raise at work. It was fun, the kids enjoyed themselves, and on the drive home all of us were ridiculously hyper and singing and laughing! Dinner was followed by our routine before bed walk. I love these walks. They are comforting and make me feel loved since Michael dreads the idea of a 'walk' but is always up for one with us.

With the kids tucked in we had coffee out on our porch. I poured my heart out to Michael and he listened and offered a new perspective. I'll never get over how nice it is to have someone who understands me and loves me just for who I am. Thank you Jesus for my husband! I am so thankful!

If that wasn't enough, when Michael came home later that evening he presented me with a gift bag filled with chocolate, and body wash, lotion, and moisturizers. He also gave me a card full of encouragement and tokens of his love. He later admitted that he asked a woman at the store what kind of lotion to buy me. He was embarrassed but I thought it was sweet. He spent the day, seeking out to love and please me with great detail. Even the card, gift, and tissue paper was color coded!

Today is a much better day! The kids are happier ( probably because I am happier!), the house is deemed live able, and we even made it outside for a walk. And I can't stop smiling! Michael- he is a man that can turn things around! He always knows the way to comfort his family! I aspire to love like he loves! He lives true to his name.. "Michael" - who is like God.

For the Grandmas and the Grandpas

These are pics for all the grandmas and grandpas out there... especially Caleb's and Bella's! P.S. Gabriella is demonstrating mama's pout!
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The Zoo

One of the most fun gifts that has been given to our family is a membership to the Zoo. We went today and had a blast! Enjoy the pics!

Our Jetta

Ever since May 28th I am challenged with a new fear. I am afraid of something that most people don't even think twice about. My heart starts thumping wildly every time I even think about sitting in the driver's seat in our car.

It was a great day. We took the kids to the park, had a BBQ, the sun was shining brightly and we were all in the mood for some DQ ice- cream. The perfect end to the perfect day.

I will always question what in the world possessed me to want to drive that evening. I liked driving but preferred to be a passenger whenever my husband was around. But I did take the keys in my hand and we started on our way. The energy in car was fun, the kids were laughing. and we were listening to Brazilian music.

It's odd how in a moment everything can change. I stopped at a stop sign, and waited. I looked to my left- there were no cars coming. I looked to my right- there was a car in the distance - but I figured I had enough time to proceed.

I went slowly forward, and as I changed my gears into second, I heard my husband gasp, and then in one second I heard a loud crunch and the screeching of tires that will forever be etched in my mind.

Michael says that I screamed really loud, and started to cry frantically. I don't remember that. All I remember is my kids crying and the little boy sitting in the passengers seat of the black Pontiac that struck the left side of our car, staring at me.

The events that followed are a blur. The mom and boy in the other car were very kind and forgiving, the police came and waited until our cars were towed, and Michelle and Chris came as soon as they could to pick us up.

My heart was heavy with thanksgiving that nobody was hurt, and guilt that my mistake had put 6 lives in danger. I was also very worried that I had totaled our car. Gabriella was very sweet, she said over and over, "Mommy it's okay. Don't cry, It was just an accident. Shh, shh, it was just a mistake. " I was holding her, but in truth, she held me that night. Michael was amazing too, and put me to ease.

In the next two weeks I watched God work in amazing ways. The insurance was prompt , and not complicated. We discovered that we had GAP coverage and our car loan was paid off, Bella and Caleb showed no effects of being in an accident, and we bought a new car.

But this is the cool thing. We prayed and fasted and searched for the perfect car. God provided not only a good reliable car, but Michael's dream car with everything he always wanted, down to chrome detailing. We purchased a 2002 VW Jetta. In fact financially we are in a better position now than we were before the accident!

The first few times driving were really hard, I determined that it was something I NEEDED to do. God was with me the entire time. As I was driving encouraging scriptures came to my head and comforted me.

And it is still hard, so please pray for me. I don't remember battling this kind of fear since I was eight and was afraid of getting something in the dark basement of our home! Satan is real, and active, and desires to poison my heart and life with fear. I won't allow that.

So instead I am trusting God to conquer this fear, and I pray for his protection every time I drive. I will not be afraid, for Jesus is my helper! Indeed He is!

First Kiss

This is the kind of picture Gabriella is going to hate growing up! But we love it!

Staying at home

I have been asked before if i like staying at home with my kids.

My answer is YES YES YES!

Before Michael and I had little Bella Bella, we decided that we would do whatever it took for me to stay at home with her and other future babies. It's taken a little bit of financial sacrifice, we definitely live a simpler lifestyle, but for us it has been worth it.

I am truly spoiled to be able to spend all day with my kids. They are great! There is nothing better than hanging out first thing in the morning in our p.j.'s, watching Curious George, doing morning devotions while eating cheerios, and drinking yummy coffee in the kids sunny bedroom, during the construction of the tallest Lego tower in the world!

Growing up I always said that I was going to become a lawyer. I was NEVER going to fall in love and get married, and there was no way I was EVER going to have children. I like things organized, clean, and my goals achieved, so having kids would just get in the way. Even when I became a christian my own accomplishments were way to important to waste energy on such things. Wow! It is amazing what God can do with your heart if you give him access to it! In high school I surrendered my future to the Lord and within four years he really did take charge of my life! Instead of going to law school I went to Bethany College of Missions. There I met Michael, fell madly in love and became married 2 years later. Nine months into our marriage we discovered that we were going to have our first child! Definitely not in our plan, but a sweet surprise!

I am also a little surprised that I enjoy my life so much as a stay at home mom. Nothing is ever fully accomplished here. Face it with a 1 and 2 year old there is always more to do, more to clean, more to put away! But I am satisfied and happy. I am very thankful that God chose me to make an impression on these little people that have invaded my calm little world. A perk is that I get to watch them grow and discover life and their creator!

Baby

It only seems appropriate to indroduce you to Baby. She came to our family on March 10th, 2006 as a gift to Bella from Debora, a bible school student on the Bethany Base in Paraguay.

Baby has bright blue eyes, brown fur, long ears and a long tail. She really is a puppy, but many confuse her as a rabbit, and others don't know what to call her at all. Just ask Bella and she will say, "Her name is Baby Dugan."

For some reason Bella and baby hit it off from the begining. Perhaps she attached so quickly because it was during this time that Michael was on a trip to Brasil and baby gave her a sence of security. The first night she got baby she fell asleep quickly holding her little doll, where as the nights before she was awake for hours crying for her Daddy.

Since then Gabriella and baby have been inseperable. Baby is either held by Bella all day or is in arms reach. Baby is like any other REAL baby, baby can be happy, sad, misbehaving, hungry or tired. Baby gets nursed 3 times a day, and is currently learning how to use the potty. Baby likes to read books and watch Clifford. At most meal times Baby gets her own chair at the table, and in the car she likes to ride in the back middle seat. Sometimes in the store baby likes to wander off and get left behind. We have to remind Bella to keep an eye on her at all times!



I've heard comments from other moms, and read in magazine articles that a parent should be wary of this kind of attachment, and that perhaps we should slowly wean her from Baby. I disagree. True, Baby isn't the most attractive, she is worn and stained and becoming fragile from all the love and washing. True, it is a little extra work having to know where baby is when we leave the house. But that baby has helped Gabriella through many sad, scary, and hard times. Baby was with her everynight she was sick or teething and comforted her. Baby was the one thing that was familiar when we moved to the USA. Baby was there for Bella's first time at the church's nursery. Baby has been to Dr. appointments, pools, overnight trips, and Camp Snoopy. Baby has given Bella the courage to venture from us and make friends, and baby never complains when she is forgotten on the ground.



Baby is also a teaching aid. Bella is learning how to care and love for something. (and it is alot easier than a pet!) She is learning that Baby has feelings and she needs to be patient with her and speak softly and kindly. She is learning to pray for Baby when baby is sad. Gabriella is already a great servant, she has a gift of caring, and I know that her practice with Baby is going to make her a wonderful Mommy one day.



Baby is not just a stuffed animal. She is truly a part of our family, but more so a special part of Bella. I am very thankful fo Debora's gift because it has blessed our daughter.

So if you get the honor of meeting Bella's baby treat her like she is important because she is!

Late night, lazy morning

Today I am 90% unproductive. My morning began when I rolled out of bed at 7:30 only because my daughter insisted that she had to go xixi (pee) NOW! I managed through sleepy eyes to prepare breakfast, get the kids dressed and make our beds. I knew that Gabriella and Caleb would NOT be okay with me lounging on the couch so with a smile I played cars, read books, rocked Bella's baby, and gave many hugs and kisses. Lunch consisted of only left over pizza and bread sticks!

Currently Gabriella is napping and Caleb is playing in his crib. I am STILL in my p.j.'s, the breakfast and lunch dishes are waiting, there is four loads of clean laundry to fold and put away, and you could probably find over 100 cheerios lying on the floor!
Why am I being so lazy?

Because I was up till one am with a good friend. It was late and I knew that we were going to be tired the next day, but we didn't care. There is something wonderful about late night conversation, especially if the person you are talking to is very special. Our husbands went to see a movie, and our children were in bed. It was very comforting to share my heart with her about many issues and hear from hers. It was fun to laugh and chat and just be plain silly. We were having the kind of "hold your pee in as long as you can" conversations! I am sure that you can relate!

I think many times we miss out on opportunities to create strong friendships because of the many things that need to be done, and we often live by the clock. Obviously all night chat fests wouldn't be wise ALL the time. But once in awhile I think that it is not only okay but required! I went to bed last night feeling refreshed, encouraged, and affirmed.

So thank you Sarah for leaving all of your responsibilities at home, wrestling your girl to sleep, sitting back, indulging in chocolate and coffee, and sharing yourself with me. I love you!

A child's faith

On Saturday we all took a drive to a very fun place- the Minneapolis St. Paul Airport. We didn't have to fly anywhere nor did we have anyone to pick up, we just went to dream! The excitement we all felt was incredible!!! Just the thought that in less than a year we are to be on a plane heading towards Brazil is exciting. Gabriella was ecstatic to see them flying over the car so close.

Her love for planes has grown immensely since we told her of our plans to fly to Brazil. She can spot one way in the distance, and she always says this, " We go on a plane Daddy and Mommy! In one year! I go to Brazil! I go to see Grandma and Grandpa!" It is way over her head that we are planning on moving permanently to South America, and that we have to say goodbye to family and close friends, the church, our apartment, her bedroom, and her Jetta. She is also way to young to understand all the logistics that need to fall in place, candidacy, raising support, and figuring out passports and visas. All this in one year! To me the thought is a little intimidating and overwhelming.

I need however to follower my daughter's example. We told her that we are to go to Brazil in one year, and she believes that is what is going to happen. She isn't concerned about all the details. Why? Because she trusts her parents, we said so , so in her mind it's true.

After months of praying and searching God has told Michael and I that we are to go to Brazil, and work there. The time frame isn't specific, but we believe we heard Him tell us to start preparing to leave as soon as possible. We strongly feel that May 2008 is the time for us to go.

I need to trust God like my daughter trusts us. I need not to worry how everything is going to work out and get accomplished. I need not to obsess about every detail and logistic. I do need Gabriella's childlike faith. God has given Michael and I so much, he has always provided for all of our needs, I believe that will never change.

God told us to go, and so we are, next year, on a airplane, to Brazil. For now we will find excitement in all the planning, and reminders of the adventure that awaits us, like a child, like our girl!