The welcome banner!
We’re settled back into our Chiang Mai rhythm after our recent road trip south for the Southeast Asia Missionary Kid (SEA MK) camp. This has turned into one of the high points of the year for our kids, but also for us, and now the Inspire ladies as well.
Our family of five packed into the van with both of our homeschool helpers, Faith and Lily, for a solid 14 hours to Dolphin Bay Juniper Tree. The camp itself hosted 86 MK campers from families serving in at least 8 different countries. For four days they had games, worship, deep conversations, beach time, and perhaps most importantly, time spent with other kids who “get” the missionary life. It took a while, but our kids have really found their peer group.
Faith and Lily both served as girls’ cabin counselors (this was Faith’s 2nd year doing so). It’s awesome to see them not only supporting families through schooling, but stepping into these other types of roles as well.
This was officially Josiah’s final year as a camper—hard to believe our oldest is wrapping up that chapter. There were conversations about him possibly serving next year as an assistant to the director of outdoor games. We’d love your prayers for wisdom and direction as he considers how God might use his gifts in roles like that as he transitions into adulthood.
Ruth and I got to spend some time connecting with parents, and got to hear stories from families serving across multiple countries—some in very restricted places—and to share what God is doing through our ministry here in Chiang Mai. These face-to-face conversations reminded us why we relocated: to encourage, support, and come alongside those who carry heavy loads in hard places.
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Before we close, a quick but heartfelt thank you to so many of you who have been lifting Faith up in prayer after the heartbreaking loss she experienced earlier this year. Your intercession has made a real difference. And to those who reached out or contributed toward her grief/trauma counseling costs, your generosity has helped make professional support possible.
Looking ahead, our next practical issue is a short required visa run in early April. Thailand’s current visa terms mean we need to exit the country every six months, so we’re planning a quick trip—likely to Malaysia, since it’s convenient and reasonably priced. We haven’t booked flights yet, but we’d appreciate prayers for smooth travel and easy reentry.
Thank you again for walking this journey with us. Your prayers, encouragement, and financial support keep us going. We see God’s hand in every connection, every answered prayer, and every step forward.
He is faithful.
Lance and Ruth (and the boys)
