Send Kadin & Reese to School!

UPDATE: Two months ago we took a leap of faith. We committed to a better school for our boys. One that would meet their learning needs and build confidence in them. We had some ideas about how to pay for it, but none that would cover the cost entirely. The Lord's faithfulness and the generosity of others would be the only way this journey could be fulfilled. We felt the Lord asking us to step out and commit to the school, not knowing how He would provide.

It was a day in, day out journey to trust and not doubt. I (Jessica) was humbled by how weak my faith and trust were on a day-to-day basis. I was reliant on God for a plan I could not see. It should have been easy; He's provided for me so many times in my life in a number of ways. I should have no doubt or worry that He would do so again. But I did. I couldn't know or produce the plan, and that made me nervous.

Yesterday a friend was asking me how the fundraising was going, if we had met our goal yet. I responded that we were close, but not there yet. We've been blown away by the generosity of people who love us, acquaintances, even of people who don't know us at all. Shortly after I hung up with my friend, we received a donation for the remaining amount of the fundraising goal. That same afternoon, I also opened the mail to a check from a friend for more funds. The end result had us over our fundraising goal, just six days before school starts.

I began to cry. Blown away by the generosity of others, grateful for God's faithfulness to us. In that moment, He said to me, "See. Ask and I will do immeasurably more than you could ask or imagine." (Ephesians 3:20)

I share this as a way of saying thank you, to all that have given, and to many that have prayed and continue to for our boys. I share it not as advocating prosperity gospel, but as a testimony to the Lord's faithfulness to us. Whatever journey He has you on, wherever He's asking you to step out where you can't see the path...He is faithful to provide, to see you through, to meet you. Surrender your doubt to Him and move forward in faith. It is often a daily step, but a worthwhile one to be sure.

To all who have supported us, in any way you could, we cannot express the depth of our gratitude. Our boys' future will be different because of you embracing us. With all our love, thank you.

Photo credits: Curtis Wiklund Photography

THE BACK STORY

There are ways of doing life that make you look polished and perfect. And then there are ways that make you look like you’re tumbling down a dusty road with little control over speed or direction. We are dusty road kind of people. Our family is cobbled together with love and imperfection and the biggest measures of grace. And to those who know us well, we like to think this adds to our charm. At least we’re hoping that’s the case, as we are entering a very challenging season of life that will really only be possible with the support of others.

Kadin and Reese – our strong and joyful and talented boys – have the opportunity to be educated in a school environment that is tailor-made for them. Made to build on their strengths and overcome their challenges. Made to go at their pace and help them thrive as they learn. We have spent months researching and studying, and we are so certain that this opportunity is critical for them.

And while we are summoning every bit of resources we have, the reality of the situation is that we alone don’t have enough.

We are not enough for what we believe wholeheartedly that these boys need.

And even though that is one of the most difficult things in the world to admit, we’re sharing it because we’re convinced that there are others who care for our boys and will want to help them grow.

This is a humble request. Granted, it’s also an invitation to celebrate. But first … it’s an honest ask for that which we cannot do on our own. We need our village to help. So as you consider any contribution, please know that we are grateful for you taking a moment to think about Kadin and Reese. And we are so thankful for the donations and thoughts and prayers of so many of you.

And please come join us to celebrate … to cheer on our boys as they grow and learn and become incredible young men, to share a meal of thankfulness for all the ways in which God has already provided for them throughout their young lives, and to give us an opportunity to thank you and serve you.

Total funding goal: $12,000

Funding purpose: to support tuition costs for Kadin and Reese to attend Eton Academy for the 2016-2017 school year.