Tomorrow. The day we’ve been hoping for and dreaming of for almost two years will arrive. Tomorrow, our family of five will fly to Brazil and on December 4th we will return as a family of seven.

Today I woke up in the early morning hours (when it was still dark outside) remembering all of the things I had left to pack. When I glanced at the clock at realized it was only 4AM and so I did what any other normal person would do and tried to go back to sleep. After about 45 minutes of trying and not being successful, I decided I might as well get up. By 5AM I was sitting on the couch, Bible and coffee in hand, reflecting on God’s faithfulness. I do love the quiet early morning hours.

Going on a long run was one of my top priorities for the day so before I started on my to-do list, I laced up my running shoes and headed out the door…at 6AM. Running in the dark was a first, but I loved it. About 3 miles in and on one of the trails, I had this incredible sense of God’s greatness and my smallness. With all that we have going on around us, it was a needed moment. All of my fears vanished, my worry’s disappeared, and this incredible excitement welled up inside of me. Have I mentioned running isn’t just good for the body, it’s just as good for the soul?

Now we’re getting the rest of our things packed, iPods/iPads loaded, and eating what’s left in the refrigerator. The kids are excited which makes it fun, and they are all filled with excitement for our time in Brazil.

We have a crazy itinerary. The number of airplane tickets we’ve had to purchase is likely more than some will purchase over a lifetime. We will pick up the boys next Tuesday (they’re first airplane ride)…and will have them with us from then on. If all goes as planned (and all consulate appointments cooperate go well), we will be back December 4th.

God has done some amazing things throughout this entire process. I’m confident He will get us the rest of the way.

Stay tuned here for updates along the way.

Mandy Sig