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missing them so bad, it hurts.

So much of our ministry here is a blessing to us as a family. We have met new friends (who are now as close as family), we have had the opportunity to see beautiful sites, we have had experiences beyond our expectations...and most importantly, we are where we believe God wants us to be right now; serving Him, and growing in His love.

But it is really hard when confronted with the realities of what we have to give up. Today a beautiful new member of our family was born to Rebecca's sister. I really have no idea when we will get to hold little Rylinn for the first time. My sister Amy will be getting married in July. We won't be able be at the ceremony and again, I am not sure when we will get to meet this new member of our family. Only Rebecca was able to be with her family for her dad's funeral. We've missed countless birthday celebrations, family vacations, and holiday celebrations. We've been absent from our friends' birthdays and weddings. We just flat out miss those who we are so close to.

This life living "overseas" is hard. Our hearts ache when we think about all that we miss. We miss our family, we miss our friends. Yet, while we hurt and cry when thinking about these things, we still rejoice and try find joy in all the things with which God has blessed us. We're not sure how long we will lead this life of overseas service. We pray for God's comfort during these times of joyful heartache especially if He continues to keep us in this ministry.

Please pray for us...and all families serving abroad as missionaries. While we may get to "live the dream" and live in places that most people only dream of visiting, it can be a lonely life. We love serving our Lord in this way...but I guess no one ever promised us that it would be easy.

Thanks for reading. Thanks for praying. We love you and miss every one of you.

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