Nate and Christiana

Hello Friends! I apologize that it’s been so long since we’ve posted anything. It has been an incredibly busy month–first with the holidays, and then with Cambodia preparations. The movers came and took most of our possessions this past Wednesday (see picture above),  and we leave for Cambodia TOMORROW (12:05am on Monday, to be exact).

There are so many thoughts and emotions surging through my soul right now. We’ve almost finished our long list of goodbyes, and each has been more difficult than the last. Nate and I have cried together many times, talking about how much we’re going to miss our beloved family and friends. Having Ava makes things even more complicated, as she is the cherished first grandchild in my family and also dearly loved by Nate’s family. And our friends think she’s pretty swell too :).

As we contemplate our departure, we are filled with such gratitude and affection for all those that we are leaving behind. We have both been blessed with incredible families and amazing friends. We have had so many wonderful memories and moments with each of you…and Lord-willing, will CONTINUE to have with you. For you see, this is not the end! I have to keep reminding myself of this. We are privileged to live in the age of email, facebook, Skype, blogs etc…Through the blessing of technology, we can maintain contact with you all…even chatting on the phone! We are also planning on returning to the States every two years or so. In addition, we heartily welcome any guests! Please come visit us in Cambodia! We will always have a guest room available for visitors.

One passage that has been surfacing over and over again is Luke 18:28-30, “And Peter said, ‘Look, we have left everything we own to follow you!’ Then Jesus said to them, ‘ I tell you the truth, there is no one who has left home or wife or brothers or parents or children for the sake of God’s kingdom who will not receive many times more in this age–and in the age to come, eternal life.’” Even in our nightly Bible devotion, we “happened” to read it tonight. It was mentioned in the preaching, by two different pastors, in the last two Sundays, and by several other unconnected individuals. It has been such a comfort–a providential gift from our loving Heavenly Father. We know that as difficult as this move is, that we are in the Lord’s will, and that He will bless us as we follow His guidance, both now and in the future.

Many of you are supporting us with your prayers and finances. We are truly overwhelmed by the care and generosity of those around us. We are constantly humbled by your interest in us and in the Lord’s work in Cambodia. Thank you, thank you for your role in making this possible!

God be with you til we meet again…soon!…on the computer! :)

With much love,

Christiana (for Nate and Ava)

P.S. We want to be really good at communicating, so if you think we’re due for another update, please let us know!

Nana (grandma) and Ava playing “hide and seek” in the boxes

The Littlest Traveler…and no, we did not pack her in a box to save on airfare.