Why we came home

When we decided to come home early, it was because my dad's health had declined so quickly and we felt the need to be here for awhile to be with mom, help her as we can, and spend quality time with Dad.

Last night we went to see Dad in his new home, Marantha Village. I had prayed much about this visit before we went and Mom did her best to prepare us for how we would find dad now. I just don't think anything can prepare a child for seeing their parent like that. I struggle to put words to how I feel right now. It was a very emotional time for me and I'm still not sure how to handle my feelings other than to just rest in knowing God will give me the grace to handle each moment.

I know this is also hard for Joel as he has been with our family now since almost the beginning of when we noticed Dad changing. He didn't "sign up" for this but has loved my Dad like a son, no matter what state Dad is in. He is feeling this pain as we all are. I couldn't ask for a better husband.

Many of you here in Springfield have reached out to my Mom in the last months and have loved her through this. I thank each one of you! There are also many around the world have prayed for us all too, having never met my family. Again, thank you! We will continue to need your prayers in these next months. I have no idea what to expect from this time but I know that our desire is to bring glory to our God in all we do. How that will look, I don't know. Please pray for us.

Sleeping

We knew jet lag would be an issue to face for us when we got home but actually living through it takes much patience and for us that patience has been required at midnight each night since we got home.

Jack seems to be waking up at the same time each night, wide awake and ready to play! We, on the other hand are having no problem sleeping through the night so our bodies are experiencing a strong conflict of interests! He is sleeping just two hours each afternoon for his nap, which is less than what he would sleep normally but he is still waking up at midnight and then several times afterward, we find him crying out, needing to be settled to sleep again.

Any of you, who have been through this with a kid his age, and can shed some light on how to help him cope, we welcome your comments!