Things I've learned about myself since moving to the DR part 4

16.  I know nothing about Dominican interior decorating.
17. I can do all things through Christ, who gives me strength.
18. An unreliable internet connection makes wedding planning very difficult.
19.  Dominican children can always make my day.
20. Every thing that has happened in my life up to this point, was preparing me for this point.

a time of change

 A few months ago I wrote about some big decisions that Eddy and I would be making and I asked for your prayers.  Today I want to update you on what has happened since then.  In February, my parents came down to visit.  They stayed with me for a couple days and got to know Eddy's family, they worshipped with us on Sunday, and they brought a group down who showered blessings on our ministry here.  My parents were also able to come with me into the classrooms and see me interact with the kids and see what our school is all about.  By the end of their time here, I think that they understood why I would choose a life here with Eddy working for God's kingdom at this school and church.  By the end of their time here we also received their blessing to get married.  Eddy and my dad had "the talk" and Eddy proposed to me on Valentine's Day. 

Eddy and I both feel strongly that God is calling us to continue working in the ministry here in Santiago.  The school, that started with 18 children a few years ago, is growing so fast and continues to grow every year.  This year we have around 250 students.  We now have work teams and other groups coming regularly to help the school, more and more people are getting involved in the states, and there is a huge need for people here to help build the school up, get it organized and running smoothly and help make it be what God wants it to be. 

Eddy and I have been meeting with Guille and Shelley and also talked to my mission organization about the two of us forming a team with them and working together to help this ministry and the people here grow closer to God.  I am in the process of changing my status from temporary to permanent, and Eddy is in the process of being accepted as a permanent missionary with Global as well.  We are so excited about what God has planned for us, for Guille and Shelley, and for the church and school here. 

We will be getting married on August 13.  So we are also busy planning a wedding, fixing up an apartment to live in, preparing for marriage, figuring out  residency and visa options, and preparing for our new roles in this ministry.  We are both taking on more administrative roles at the school and Eddy is taking on more responsibilities at the church. 

Please continue to pray for us during this time of change.  It can sometimes be overwhelming, but God is our strength and we know that He will be with us every step of the way.