We arrived in Canada three months ago and what a summer it’s been. Almost seven weeks ago we welcomed our sweet Nathaniel into our family. He is thriving and we are loving life with him. But on Monday night we begin our long journey back to Macha. It’s time to go home. As I’ve been processing the thought of leaving it is definitely bittersweet but I’ve been struck by the privilege it is to have two homes. Two places that couldn’t be more different from each other, but they both feel like home with people who are dear to us. In some ways, it is harder to leave this time than it was in January. It’s not easy to take a baby who seems to change daily, away from family. But I know this time was an unexpected bonus and I’m grateful for the months we’ve had here. Although I’d love to say I had a baby in the bush of Zambia, we remain confident this was the right decision for our family.

While I’m sure there will be tears tomorrow and goodbyes will be hard, we are ready to go home… to our house, to MICS, to our work and to our friends in Macha. After three months of being spoiled the boys are in need of some routines and to be back at school. We are incredibly grateful to my parents who have opened their home to us over the last few months, to friends who have given us baby equipment or filled our tummies with delicious meals and the countless other ways we’ve been loved and supported while we’ve been here.

We appreciate your prayers as we return to Zambia and adjust to life there with a young baby. The country is now experiencing eight hour daily power outages which will make life more of a challenge (you can read more about it here). Our next visit is planned for Christmas 2016 so this will be our longest stretch away. We recognize this adventure is not possible without the love and generosity of so many of you. Thank you for your support as we continue on.

First swim

First time at the farm

First smiles