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Patience, impatience, tears, resignation, and then absolute elation. Those are all the phases of Willa’s life in the last year since we relinquished our sick dog, Nutmeg, to the vet for good. Tumtum was never a family dog. He always belonged to Ray and losing Nutmeg didn’t change that. When we moved away from Madang, Willa was our heartbroken dog girl because we had to leave beloved Meggie behind. The whole “we’ll get dogs” thing was mostly for Willa!! We finally (her emphasis) decided it was time to get a dog devoted to Willa, and it’s been just as perfect and wonderful as Nutmeg’s situation was a disaster. She is deeply invested in this tiny dog with a huge name (General Marchmouse) and he’s invested in her.

This last month has been personally full between the advent of General Marchmouse into Willa’s life and a lovely guest we had downstairs from Madang. We spent so much time with her talking books, art, and even going to the symphony. Best of all, we were able to host an “at home” conference on theology, art, and creativity with our guest and two families from church. That day was a load of work to prepare for and implement, but it filled our cups to brimming. Again, we’re deeply grateful for our life and work and community here.

Brian is gearing up for his travel season. We would appreciate prayers for him getting the work done, and us at home keeping the ship even keeled. look for more on his trips in our upcoming Mailchimp newsletter. In the meantime, we’re turning around the guest space for our next much-anticipated visitor from Madang. Ready or not, and all that!

Update from our last blog: Fred recovered physically from his stroke, but not mentally. He has slipped into a state of joy-filled unclarity. Oh, that we could be the type of people that become full of light and joy when all the filters are stripped away… like Fred. Please continue to pray for him and his family.