Grace Bound

So, obviously, the Mac hasn't improved my posting frequency...at least not by much, anyway.  Oh, well!

For those who haven't yet heard, our family is on the move.  In mid-June, we're planning a move to Des Moines, IA and Grace Church.  We've been out there a couple of times now, most recently this last week. We're excited by what we've seen and what God has in store, but we're not looking forward to saying "So long!" to friends here in Ohio.

The last few years have been very significant and eventful for our family, and our friends at Old North have been very supportive. As they've heard of our plans, they've continued to be encouraging, especially as they learn that this move will put us within just a few hours of family in MO and OK.  My deepest thanks to them all!

As I said, though, we're more and more excited about the opportunities God is opening there at Grace.  The more chances we have to meet people and better understand the heart of the church, the more we can imagine some of what God has in store--and the more excited we become!  Stay tuned for details as God reveals them!

It looks to be another very exciting summer for the Simpson family.  We're looking forward to having Em and Mal back this way in a few weeks (Em for a week and Mal for the whole summer).  Em and Brock are hoping to join us in Iowa for the 4th of July, and Kim and Bobby are planning toward a visit later in the summer.  Brenda may actually get a chance to help Mal move into her new apartment at school this fall. Because of the distance, it's an opportunity she's never had.

Your prayers as we move would be greatly appreciated.  There are, of course, all the details of packing, loading, driving, etc.  Beyond that, Brenda is seeking a teaching position in an area that is currently dealing with significant education cutbacks, so your prayers on that count are especially appreciated.  God will provide, though, and we rest in that fact.

After we moved to Ohio a few years ago, I became aware of a few lines from a song that really expressed what I was feeling at the time..."It's frightening to be swimming in this strange sea, but I'd rather be here than on land."  Transitions aren't always easy, but I wouldn't have it any other way!

Blessings!