Our Journey Into The Blue

Saturday, June 25, 2016

Cessna 206 Flight Training

Here at SMAT, there's also a one year flight school training future missionary pilots and they have a Cessna 206 in their inventory on loan from Mission Aviation Fellowship. Pacific Mission Aviation also has Cessna 206s, so when the opportunity to receive some flight training presented itself, PMA agreed it was a good idea to get some time under by belt before arriving in Micronesia. The 206 is 6 seater, singe engine aircraft that has been the backbone of mission aviation for many years.

While much slower and less complicated than my previous military flying, it is different nonetheless and takes a little getting used to. Previously, there was no propeller blade angle or mixture to control. A different instrument cross check, less power and maneuverability (obviously), and the ability to takeoff/land on grass are some additional things I have to learn in this transition.

God has provided above and beyond what we need financially to serve with PMA and we were able to use our financial support for this training. Thanks to our financial supports for this opportunity to prepare better for future missionary flying!

Saturday, June 18, 2016

New Missionary Wheels

On the Pacific islands, we'll have one family vehicle and my motorcycle. After looking around on Craigslist for a few months, I found a nicely kept Suzuki dual sport to buy. When it's time to pack up the container in August, she'll be going along with our belongings to the island. Kids are excited to ride along whenever they get the chance, even if it's just around the yard.

Saturday, May 28, 2016

Our Kids

Through this past year, Lana and I have done our best to speak weekly, if not daily about our upcoming transition to the islands of Micronesia as we seek to follow Jesus and share His gospel we will minister to.

It's also been amazing to watch them grow physically, mentally, and even spiritually over this past year to. A year ago, Liam asked Jesus to save him from the penalty of this sin and Lilli has started to ask some more questions about Jesus as she comprehends more and more of the gospel. It is our prayer that God take their lives and hearts at an early age and that we would be good Christian examples for them to follow!

Saturday, May 7, 2016

Date Time!

During this year of preparation, Lana and I have been trying to get away some without the kids - though to do with three of them under the age of five. But, we're so thankful for our friends who have helped make it possible for us to be able to focus on each other in the midst of the business! Some donated hotel points and others let us borrow their airplane - God is good! We were able to get away for our anniversary last fall and two other weekends, one to Grand Rapids and the other to Traverse City and Sleeping Bear Dunes. We even flew to Holland on Lake Michigan for a spur of the moment evening dinner...spontaneity is a good time sometimes!