VIP's

Last week we had the privilege of hosting lifetime friends/mentors, Rob and Sherri McClure, along with their kids. Rob and Sherri were my (Blake's) youth pastors and are now pastors at The Bridge. 

We drove all over the island seeing as much as possible. I (Blake) got to drive everyone in our Speed The Light car bought by The Bridge. We went to the Cliffs of Moher on the most beautiful day I've ever experienced at the cliffs. The amazing weather was matched only by the conversation and laughs we had on the trip.

I could write for hours on the ways that Rob and Sherri have impacted my life. I will simply say that it was an absolute honor to show them around. After just a couple of days with them I felt uplifted, lighter, and ready to face the world. 

Thank you Rob, Sherri, Madison, Mac, and Cassie. You are all such blessings to our family.

Students of Dublin Launched

The first Students of Dublin story went live last week! It’s been so fun collecting stories these past few months. People are so fascinating.  There is so much more depth than we realize in the people we pass by every day. 

You might not think you have a story worth telling, but, believe me...you do. One of the lies we all believe from time to time is that our story doesn’t matter.  One of the most common responses to our requests to hear a student’s story was a little laugh then, “I don’t have a story.”  

We want every student to know that not only do they have a story worth telling, but it is a story that is as significant as they are. God cares about these students being able to express their thoughts and have someone listen.  

So, hit the link above and stay tuned, as we begin this cool new focus for Students for Christ Dublin. 

Update on Visa Saga

This image has been our lives these past couple of weeks. We got news about the progress of our visa. They need a few more documents to complete the process (good news, since that might confirm we haven't been rejected). This visa is based on Eli's possession of an Irish passport, so we need to demonstrate that we are (a) not deadbeat parents and (b) are an actual couple who like each other. 

So far, so good with those two items. The first thing they need is a bunch of photos of me and Blake that prove that we are a real couple (images of us skipping through meadows, knitting matching sweaters, etc.). Check. It was a lot of fun going through nine years of photos together. I was on the edge of making a full-on scrapbook, but I held back. 

Next, they need letters from our family doctor and Eden's school that basically outline how Blake is an amazing dad. Check check. Lastly, we need to get a couple more documents signed by our solicitor (lawyer) and this whole process will be complete. Thank you guys so much for praying for us. It's hard to press on in ministry when the temptation is to sit and anxiously wait. We feel so encouraged by all of you guys. Stay tuned for more updates!