Humbling, Happy, Holy-Spirit Moments....

This week my heart was joyous as the Lord showed up, as He seems to do, right when we need His touch most!  There's a lot swirling around in our corner of the woods~lots of life happening~and on Tuesday my spirit was heavy.  I felt like some of my old insecurities were rising up, and that just isn't a good feeling.  So, I prayed and reached out to one of my prayer warriors, and God's appearance was BEAUTIFUL!

As I was waiting for Graham to get done with science, a sweet gal showed up at my driver's side window.  Our paths have crossed a couple of times during this journey towards the mission field, and each time she's shown such kindness and graciousness.  She inquired about our trip being just around the corner and then asked if she could pray over us.....gently shocked I said, "Yes, please!"  We then proceeded to discuss her family's trip to the Philippines last year and the many amazing, this-is-a-God-thing moments they encountered!  She then prayed over us...and I was overcome with emotion (not so surprising, I know!!).  She prayed deeply, boldly and beautifully for our family as we near our departure date.  Then she referenced Joshua 1:9, which talks about being bold and courageous.  She had no idea that Graham and I memorized that exact scripture 2 weeks ago because we've been "writing" scripture on our hearts that talks about not being fearful but being bold and courageous in the Lord...that was so Jesus blessing my heart in the grandest way!  Be encouraged that He hears our most personal, deep, heart requests....

Logistics update:  We finished our second to last vaccine on Tuesday with no side effects...thank goodness!  We have one more to take starting on Monday!  Instead of counting down the months to leave we're now able to count down the days!  Just talked today with my mom about the luggage we'd be sending through and carrying on...making it more real!

We were able to change a too-tight-of-a-connection flight so we're a bit more at ease with the schedule in place.

We're close to having all our clothing/flip flops together...we know it will be hot so lots of shorts, sandals, skirts (for me!), tennies for the hikes into villages and short sleeve shirts.  We have our little arsenal of essential oils, too, for bug repellent, possible digestion issues, and calming ones for the plane rides!!

Doug and I went on a date last night, and when we were at the bookstore he pulled a book on the Philippines.  It was fun to think we'd be there in a little less than 3 weeks.  We've really been praying that the Lord would prepare us for what He has in store and to serve with joyful, selfless hearts. 

Thank you sooooo much for your continued prayers, love and encouraging support.

P.S. I figured out how to allow people to follow our blog...pretty high-techy for me!  Thankful for a wonderful friend who helped with that one!

Running His race~

Doug and Noelle