A Refreshing Summer

Preparing for a summer back in the US requires quite a bit of work, but it pays off with a schedule full of time with so many precious people. While we met a handful of new folks, we spent most of our time connecting with existing partners, friends, and family. And though it wasn't without its challenges, overall we had a wonderful time catching up with so many of you! Thank you for opening your homes to us, sharing what has been going on in your life, buying us a meal, or treating us to coffee. We also raised two-thirds of our goal for ongoing monthly support. Wow! God is so faithful! We are incredibly humbled by the many blessings bestowed upon us while we were in the USA, and our hearts were refreshed by the encouragement you each offered.

We returned to Thailand the last week in July—Nick was back at Grace International School for all-staff orientation less than 48 hours later, and the kids have also since returned to school. Summer flew by for sure! It’s impossible to believe we only have three years left with Elam before he graduates and likely moves back to the US for university. Moriah moved up to join Grey in middle school this year, and Wren has just two more years before she moves on from elementary, too. How are our kids this old already!?

While Nick and the kids are back to many of their standard rhythms, Traci’s schedule typically gets a full reset when we spend the summer stateside. Her regular discipleship relationships and Bible studies have already resumed or will resume over the next few weeks, while other ministry commitments and Thai study times will shift based on everyone’s new availability. And every time we leave Thailand for an extended period, we inevitably have a bit of catching up to do when we return, so we are intentionally adding things back into the schedule gradually as life settles into its new rhythm.

In The Midst Café did great in our absence and was fully operational without us, which has always been the goal. We will continue consulting with them, helping with marketing, new menu items, and staff guidance. But given the business's health and sustainability at this point, our involvement has shifted to being more relationally driven, which aligns even more closely with our ministry focus. Pray that the café continues to be a resource and space for ministry; pray for new inroads with staff and customers who are interested in learning more about Jesus.

The Lattes & Fellowship ministry—for young moms—also continued while we were stateside, and Traci has enjoyed reengaging with that group of women. Several new moms have joined, too. Pray for many more opportunities to share the love and hope of Christ and provide clear gospel explanations as those conversations naturally arise.

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