Hello once again! We are writing to update you on our progress so far in raising funds and preparing to leave for Costa Rica. There are several exciting things to report!
First, we have raised about 30% of our funds so far. It has been an incredible experience to see people step up and generously support us. Raising money is definitely challenging us and pushing us out of our independent, self-sufficient cultural mindset. It’s been such a blessing to see God provide for us in ways we never expected. We have been humbled and immensely encouraged, knowing people are praying for us and giving generously to support what we’ll be doing down in Costa Rica. A HUGE thank you to all of you, whether it’s been words of encouragement, prayers, or a financial contribution. We could not step into this adventure without you.
Second, we have started a blog where we’ll post these newsletters online, as well as other posts documenting the “getting ready” process. The amount of work, planning, and emotion that goes into a decision like this is truly remarkable, and we thought a blog would be a good way to keep people updated on a more regular basis of what we’re doing and where we are at in this process. The blog is http://www.tresriosproject.blogspot.com/. If you’re interested, check it out!
Third, we have been praying a lot about when we should actually leave. We would love to leave as early as this October, but there are several variables influencing our decision, and we’re considering what is best for our family. As we mentioned in our first letter, we need 100% of our support for our first year to be raised or pledged ($3,500-4,000/month), and we have been encouraged by what has been given so far. Also, many of you know that we had a miscarriage earlier this year and have hopes of having a second child. We’re flying down to San Jose in August to meet with a doctor and to take a tour of the hospital to make sure we feel comfortable with potentially having a baby in Costa Rica. Third, at Kate’s two-year doctor’s appointment, it was recommended that we have her evaluated for possible speech delay. Our initial evaluation is on June 22nd and if it turns out that she does need therapy, we may need to stay in Seattle for a few extra months to ensure she gets the help she needs.
So that leaves us with lots to think and pray about! Here is how you can pray for and support us:
· Pray along with us about exactly when we should leave and that the Lord would give us wisdom in all the small and big steps as we prepare to move.
· Pray that all of our finances would be raised. Pray specifically for more monthly donors.
· If you haven’t contributed financially and feel led to, here’s how:
o For one-time donations, you can write a check payable to “Tres Rios” and send it to Visions Made Viable, or go online to http://visionsmadeviable.org/tresriosproject and click the Donate button at the bottom of the page.
o For on-going, monthly donations, fill out the enclosed form and send it in to Visions Made Viable.
Thank you again for all your prayer and support and for taking the time to read our letter.
With love,
Joe, Jennie, and Kate
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