People keep asking us all sorts of questions about the kids and how they are handling all this change. The answer is "better than me!". All we have talked about for the last three years is moving to Uganda. Our kids have seen the pictures, watched the videos and listened to endless stories. It has permeated almost every aspect of their lives. For example when they complain about eating all their dinner we have a whole host of responses now. Like: "There are starving children in the world that would love to have what you are throwing away. I've seen them!". Or: "When we move to Uganda you won't have a choice of what you eat. It's rice and beans three meals a day." Much eye-rolling and "MOM!" with an exaggerated sigh ensues.
Another area this passion for missions has affected is their toys. They have spent years perfecting the art of consumerism and were crushed to relinquish any of their "treasures". Our entire basement was their playroom filled with all sorts of wonderful things. Once we knew we were selling the house they had to make some hard choices about what to keep. In the end they each kept two stuffed animals, some books and coloring stuff. A few toys made it out alive to their grandparents' house. It taught them an early lesson on letting go. (A much needed lesson for me too.) And during the many garage sales they were excited to sell their stuff and tell all the people about our move to Uganda.
Every time we go to the store they know not to ask anymore for things because there will be no room to take them with us. ( Okay, they still ask but they understand now why we have to downsize.)
This also affects their friendships. Aiden will not be returning to Stillwater Christian school obviously. He had a hard and sad last day of school saying goodbye. Yet his witness to his friends is amazing. And hopefully he'll have a few faithful pen pals! Hannah and her friend Ava have been the dynamic (naughty) duo since they were 18 months old. The thought of splitting those two up is hard. ( But maybe better for mankind in the long run!) Even with all the finality of saying good bye to their friends, they are excited about making new friends in Uganda. I have reminded them how God brings certain people into our lives for a time and then moves us on.
This will also affect their schooling. They will both be enrolled at Kootenai Valley Christian School in Libby, Montana until Christmas. And then their uber-smart mom will be their teacher. (Pray like you've never prayed before...I'll need it!)
Mostly this will affect their world view. And thank God for that! I am guilty of contributing to their spoiled american mindset. I am thrilled that they will see how the rest of the world lives. And hopefully be more grateful because of it. So yes, they have a lot to adjust to...letting go, saying goodbye, giving, sacrificing and serving. I wish I had learned those lessons as young as they will!
We trust that your prayers go with our children!
