It's Been A While... Again

It's been a hectic couple of months - but wait - I said that last time I posted. Maybe it hasn't been hectic and I've just chosen other things to do besides blog... yup, that's it. I've not made it a priority to do this - the reason for sporadic, sparse, and few posts is my own choice not a hectic life. Now we all know the truth. : ).

It is October and wildly beautiful in the Pacific Northwest. Whereas last fall, Christian and I were floundering with what to do with ourselves amidst the rain, adjustments to a new city, building new relationships and so much more; this fall, we find ourselves enjoying the colors, brisk mornings, and rain showers that fall over our city almost daily. Though we still miss home (I mean let's me honest, no other state can say "OKLA-HOME-A") we are feeling more settled here. That might be because we moved into a rental house and out of an apartment, we have friends within walking distance, and my Mom and sisters helped us decorate when they came in town to meet Allie Joy. Speaking of...

Isn't she just the cutest?! We love her to death. These were our attempts at newborn photos. She is seven weeks old now (I think she was maybe 4 weeks old in these pictures) and we are enjoying every minute with her. Really. We love being parents!

In other news: 

The short term team made it back safe and sound from South Africa! They had a blast and saw God move in some really powerful ways. The team learned what it looks like to disciple and look for opportunities to minister within normal life. They learned to rest and rely on God to bring people into their day rather than to strive to find people. A small group was formed and several women were connected to the long term team. WOW! Thanks God!

Christian finished up his Portland Net training in disaster relief. What an opportunity for him to learn more of what is going on state-side in disaster relief efforts. He continues to work with Acts of Mercy and City Team, as well as Portland Net to coordinate Church efforts in disaster relief. 

As we continue to see a discipleship movement begin and grow in Portland, we have a practical need to move our Church location - again. So, we are now moving The Door further into outer Southeast Portland to a neighborhood called Rosewood. On Sundays we will be meeting in a large room that is owned by The Rosewood Initiative. During the week, the room is used for a basic after-school program, mentoring space, community gathering place for police, business owners, apartment managers, etc.. We are believing for creative ways to utilize the space for our needs and are thanking God for the $25/week we will pay to use it for now. This location will help us to also better reach the neighborhoods in which we are ministering!