By far the hardest part of our job is being away from our family and friends. For years I've been asking the Father for people who would love our kids like family in the absence of our precious family. People that would take time for our kids, listen to them, make them feel special and important even when they are being silly or naughty. To my surprise the Father saw fit to continue answering this request, for now, through our family. My parents skype faithfully with us and it's the highlight of S's week! She "reads" them stories and shows them her new "tricks."

We recently received our first official package since being back in the country from J's twin brother and his family, with another package already on the way! The kids (and their parents) were elated!! My sweet sis-in-law took the time to patiently show our babies everything she was sending to them so that they know exactly who sent it. (S is especially into where things came from these days. I think it really helps her to feel connected to the people she loves that are far away.) They also take time to skype with us and it means so much to our children who ADORE their older cousins.

It's not the same as it would be if we didn't live so far away, but it's its own kind of special and for that, I'm so thankful!