Bitter-sweet

So I finally have the word to describe the adventure we're on..."bittersweet". Thanks to a dear friend from our Sunday School class that has gone through a very similar situation, I now am able to put a word to the feelings. I guess I've heard the word a thousand times, but only recently understood the feeling. We have experienced "the lasts"...for example, "the last time at church until Christmas" or "the last time a family member can call us up for last minute plans." But then we are so excited about all "the firsts"! The first move, the first job, the first home away from home.

One lesson Justin has taught me is that, it's not about me. A lot of times we all get caught up in how sad WE are, or how lonely WE are, or whatever WE feel, but recently it's in those moments that I remember...it's just not about me....it's about God or about others. God has been our Provider, Companion, Guide, and Patient Teacher. He has began to teach us a lot through our Sunday School and through experiences, that it's all about His love and how He has shown that to us. I am breathless and speechless when I consider all that He has done in us, for us, and through us!! He's totally in control and I can't think of a better place for us to be than in His will.

Please pray for:
-Safe travels.
-Baby Charlie and Anna Claire's growth and health.
-Justin's dad's safe trip home in August.
-Rebekah's job opportunities in Texas.
-Peace and comfort from God through all these changes.
-An acquaintance that recently lost one of their two twins before birth and the other is in critical condition.
-All our friends who are beginning marriage soon and those who are adding little ones to their families :)

We're three days away!!! Thank you so much for all your encouragement and prayers. Hope you each are enjoying the beautiful summer weather and the fun summer vacations!! (below is a pic from our Memorial Weekend trip to Edisto...it was BEAUTIFUL and relaxing!)

Love always,
R & J

^{(Romans 15:13)}"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit!"

Two weeks to go!!

We cannot believe that we are only two weeks away from departure from South Carolina. A little scared because of ALL the newness, but totally excited to begin this journey!!! We've had lots of fun stuff going on and memories in the making the past week and thought we'd share some special pictures from the time with our two nephews (Daniel and Charlie) and niece (Anna Claire), our Bon Voyage family party, and our celebration of 6 months of marriage!! We feel so blessed and are so grateful for each moment we get with our friends and family.





Love, R & J

"How can I keep from singing your praise, how can ever say enough, how amazing is your love!"

Magnificent May!

Wow, where to begin! This has been a great few weeks! We cannot believe we are down to 3 weeks and counting. We have really been blessed while living here in Lexington. We've been able to attend lots of friends weddings, showers, and get togethers! We have also been able to spend lots of time with family on Wednesday nights and the weekends. One lesson I've learned is to take in the moments. I believe that is one of the most important lessons so far in my life. Just to stop and take in the moment that you're in. Justin has learned to Trust God. Trust He will provide. He will always provide as we continue to believe in His sustaining power!

We've enjoyed getting ready to move into our new home in Texas. All the boxes are packed, we got a new washer & dryer =) , and furniture is in the process of being bought. We're so excited about a family Bon Voyage party we're having this weekend. It's going to bring us so much joy to have all the family together before we head out. Lots of people ask me if I'm sad or nervous, and I have to be honest I have had one day that was full of emotions, but after praying to God with an open and honest heart, he redirected my energy and gave me peace.

As always, our nephews and niece have continued to bring so much Joy and Love into our lives. As I told Kathy today, "there isn't many things in this life that make me feel this loved." The twins are home and we are ALL loving it...it is just so neat to see every prayer the Lord has faithfully answered. Daniel is just as full-of-life and excitement as ever! We had a very fun day at the park's Kid's Day...it had tractors, horses, and popsicles :0)


We are celebrating our 6 months of marriage this week! It is hard to believe it's been that long, but at the same time so very much has happened in such a short time! I cannot begin to praise God enough for the blessings and grace he has LAVISHED upon us.

We continue to pray for our country and the decisions our leaders are making. Luke 19:40 continues to come to our minds when we feel that it's a lost fight..for "how can we keep quiet about what the Lord has done for us!" (Acts 4:20)

Love you all. Thank you dearly for your prayers and please know that we continue to lift up those of you who have asked us for prayer. Take care!
Love, R & J

Luke 19:20
"If they keep quiet, the stones will cry out!"