Just wrapping up day #4 of “flying solo” without Fred, and so far, it’s been OK.
Of course, we miss him lots, but it hasn’t been the insanity I might have expected.
I’ve somehow managed to keep up with laundry, dishes, and most of my business to-dos, while also feeling like I’m getting some good time with the kiddos. They’ve been helping with the chores pretty nicely, so there’s been a bit more of a “team picking up the slack for being down a major member” atmosphere here at home. Of course, there has been the normal sibling bickering now and again, too, but they’ve also been playing pretty nicely overall. And Mom-mom has stopped by every evening to pick the girls up from VBS while I get the boys down to bed. It’s certainly been nice having her around in the evenings. Thank you, Mom-mom!
The kids all seem to miss Daddy in their own way. The girls have outright said multiple times, “I miss Daddy.” Matthew asked me tonight, “Where is Daddy?” When I said “on the other side of the world,” he looked a bit confused, so I clarified, “far away,” and he just looked sad. And Andrew has just been a little squirrelier than usual at bed time. I think he really misses the routine of Daddy coming to snuggle him down to bed after Mommy gives him some night-night nursies.
So where in the world is Fred? In case you hadn’t heard, he’s in Ukraine on a short term missions trip, helping a local church over there with English language ministries for youth. I don’t really know much more than that he arrived, as evidenced by the voicemail he left me when I missed his call yesterday (sad), the Facebook post he put up somehow, and the picture that our friend Kristy put up on Facebook for me…
That’s Fred, second from the right, with his ‘travel hat.’
That hat! Love that hat! It has survived the ridiculous crashing waves of the New Zealand coast and many an other adventure over the years.
The only other thing that I do know is that God is up to something very cool – in the lives of the students, in the lives of the team members, in Fred, in me, in our kids… in the world at large… sorry, can’t help it, I’m a big picture person these days!
Good stuff.
I can’t wait to get over there next week and join him!
Yup, Andrew and I will be heading over next Tuesday, to join Fred and the team for the last 5 days of the trip. It’s a red-eye, so I figure it’s either going to be great ’cause he’ll sleep, or awful ’cause he’ll scream. 
So, yeah, speaking of “flying solo” – any tips, besides nursing, for long flights alone with a crazy, 19 month old bundle of energy? I’m thinking books – he’s been getting really into books lately…
If you’re “the praying sort,” I’d definitely like to put out a special request for prayers for the trip – thank you! And if you’re not, I’ll also appreciate the kindness behind whatever good thoughts or well wishes you want to ‘think my way’ – thanks!
Oh, and I guess I should start thinking about packing sometime soon, eh? Wow, I’ve changed. The pre-kids me would have been overpacked and ready at least a full week in advance. Now, I plan to throw a few things in a bag and just go. It’s only 5 days. We can rough it. ;o)
Lacey! Love it! So glad that you are doing well. We’ve been praying for you and your adjustment with out Fred, esp. in the summer months, where I know that his presence is much enjoyed! I asked him, “so, Fred, what do summers look like for you as a teacher?” He said, “I play with my kids!” They are CERTAINLY missing him then! God bless your travels over. Books. Crayons. Drinks. Snacks. We have found that M. turns very good in situations when she gets snacks that she doesn’t normally get (ie. fruit snacks in our household…) We use these for dr. office visits, plane rides, and photo shoots. And the occasional special meeting or church service. Hope this helps!
Thanks, Kristy! I can’t wait to see you!!! I stitched up the holes in my backpack yesterday and hope to start packing tomorrow sometime.
Need anything?
Lacey,
Keeping you and your family in our prayers! You are so strong and brave – I know you will make this trip as successful as everything else you’ve been doing! Safe travels and savor the moments!
Thank you so much, Kate! I miss you! How are YOU?!
Wow…so many wonderful happenings. If you give me a call I might be able to share some games you can do on the plane. Look forward to talking soon. :-
Thanks, Rhonda! I’ve got noisy kids here all day and feel a bit like a chicken with my head cut off trying to get everything done. Not sure I’d be able to call before I leave tomorrow, but if you can email me any ideas that I can read while surrounded by boisterous children, that’d be great! Will be signing off email tonight for the week.
Lacey, Safe travels and best wishes for your trip. I’m sure everything will go smoothly
Thanks, Brooke! Hope you’re having a great summer.
Getting SOOOO close to your turn to board the airplane! I am excited for you! Tell me all about it when you get back, kay?!? I know you are good for emails, but I would LOVE to chat with you on the phone again! You and Fred are amazing and I will pray that the people you work with over there recieve you well! I am pictureing my last experience in Ukraine and remembering what it was like just trying to really put your trip in my mind…and trying not to be jelous! =) There are a few individuals that I would love to re-visit there! My heart is with you! Anyway, have an amazing trip! <3 Janessa
Thank you so much, Janessa. We got back late Monday night, crashed yesterday, and now I’m trying to get caught up on emails and such. Hope to get a good write up of the trip together soon, but would love to talk with you by phone too. Let me know what’s good for you. xo