Slow but steady…

Since we returned from our vision-trip to Peru in July, our kids often ask, “when we live in Peru, will we…?” They are excited and thinking about our move. Their enthusiasm encourages us as we slowly but surely make progress toward the goal of returning to Peru in January or February of 2026.

We have been back in Michigan for a little over 3 months and have settled into new routines. I thought it might be helpful to give a window into what things look like for us week-to-week as we prepare to return to Peru. Before then, we need to accomplish two big goals: (1) I must complete my PhD, and (2) we need to raise support for our long-term ministry (see where we stand on these goals below).

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Adriana has been caring for our kids and home full-time. This year, Imara, our 3-year-old, is doing pre-school part-time. For the first time in over 9 years, there are no kids at home for part of the day. The quiet takes some getting used to! Adriana began working part-time this week at Wedgewood Christian Services as a Behavioral Technician.

Much of my day-to-day energy goes toward our long-term goals. I am working full-time writing my dissertation and sprinkling in reading for my comprehensive exams. In addition, I serve as a Teaching Assistant to an OT professor at Wheaton. In other words, for 40+ hours each week I read, research, edit, write, and meet with people and churches to share about our ministry.

Thankfully, just two weeks ago, I submitted a third chapter (20,999 words—64 pages). Much will likely need to be cut, but this represents significant progress! I have three body chapters left which should add up to around 40,000 words.

I hope to finish writing next summer so that I can defend the dissertation in the fall. While that seems like a long time, I am feeling the pressure. This past weekend, I met with my advisor and reiterated my goal to him. His response was,

“Alright! We’ve got a lot of work ahead of us! It is good to have a goal.”

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Ph.D. Progress Tracker

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Ministry Partner Tracker

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Please Pray

• Kids school: All four are in a local Christian school and are learning in English for the first time. Previously they have been in a dual language (Spanish-English) program. This has been a tough transition for them, but they are adjusting.
• Adriana’s work: She is excited to be working with children with autism spectrum disorder, helping them learn and grow.
• Andrew’s work: Progress is slow, and it can be hard to feel that there is movement day-to-day. Pray for energy and perseverance!

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