Sleepy Bear

Samuel is still fighting off his cold. Yesterday we had to do some
running around and so I bundled him up to keep him warm.
He was so cuddly and warm in his little bear suit not to
mention adorable.

A less traveled path...

As many of you know, community in it's many forms has been pursuing us over the last year. From our small group back in Grand Rapids (that we do miss dearly) to great communities at work (also greatly missed) we have surrounded ourselves with people who support us, hold us accountable and provide us with a "family." Although we knew moving to Seattle, we would leave these communities behind, we desired to create new pockets of people here. Thankfully we have found some of these.

Last night, we had dinner with our dear friends Jon and Annie. Ever since we began talking about a possible move to Seattle, they have been a great support group for both of us. We always enjoy the time that we can sit and talk to them about real stuff that is in our hearts. Last night was no exception. To say the least, we always feel more alive after conversations with them. Craig and Beth have also become an additional couple we have turned to. They share many exciting adventures with us, moving from Michigan in August and being new parents. They were able to join us for dessert last night at El Diablo. Over great conversation, I finally felt God's presence here in Seattle.

Since our decision to move, I have been struggling with God's purpose for me here. Mike's is more obvious, go to school to pursue a desire that has been building in his heart for years and begin to change the world (should be easy right?), but what was I suppose to do in Seattle? August, September and October came and went, but no answers. I began to wonder if God decided to walk across the country, because I was certainly feeling rather alone. Knowing He would never lead me here and desert me, I really began praying that He would reveal what He wanted from me. What was I suppose to do here? Who was I suppose to meet? Finally he decided to "show up!"

As many of you know, we have talked about living in community with others since we decided to move. We were never quite sure what this would look like or how it would work, but trusted that when the time was right we would know. As the old saying goes, watch what you wish for. I have had this overwhelming desire and excitement about living in community with another couple, so we, after discussions with Mike and then with Craig and Beth, have decided to start looking for a house together. We are looking all over the Seattle area for a 4 bedroom 2 bathroom house where we can call "home." I am sure many of you think we are crazy, but then again we did pick up our entire lives with a 5 week old son to move to this rainy but beautiful city!?!

We are not sure what is entirely in store for us, but we do know that we have been blessed in many ways over the last several years and are trusting that we will continue to be. Will it be hard? Definitely. Will it be uncomfortable at times? Probably. Will it be an adventure of a lifetime? Hopefully. We will definitely keep you updated as all this unfolds. Please pray for wise decisions and honest hearts as we venture down a less traveled path.

Live well!
Jenn