We're on March Break this week and are enjoying having the time together at home, while checking things off our to-do lists (like this newsletter). The past two months have held celebrations and new beginnings; Paul turned 3 in February and Ruth just turned 1 yesterday! It's crazy how quickly time flies by.. so here's an update on everyone in our family:
Paul is such a sweet, funny kid! He loves reading books, playing with his trains and cars, taking pictures, and playing with friends. He is very inquisitive and loves to know how things work; he asks a lot of clarifying questions (questions that I have answered probably 100 times haha) to understand the world around him. Caleb has invited him to help with making some meals and Paul loves to "make these meals" in his toy kitchen for days after (lots of pasta, pancakes, and cracking eggs). Paul recently started going to preschool two mornings a week and brings home a painting almost every day. Paul is kind, caring, loving, and sweet; he's still a toddler with all the tantrums, but we're definitely seeing the little man God created him to be coming out more!
Ruth is a riot!! For most of this first year, we thought she was very much like Caleb: quiet, observant, taking it all in. In just the past two weeks, her personality has really started to emerge with lots of babbling, climbing, and getting into everything she can. She likes to be independent, but also likes to come back to "home base" for cuddles before speed crawling to the next thing. She is standing on her own and has taken a few steps without support. We're expecting her to be walking by the end of the month! She is also quite inquisitive and, like Ariel, she wants to be where the people are. Thankfully, there's usually always someone for her to play with these days. We're excited to watch her continue to grow!
Rogie has been settling in well and his grades have started to improve since being with us. Caleb has invested a lot of time and effort in helping him with school, especially math. Rogie and Caleb will often play chess throughout the week; Rogie has yet to beat Caleb, but he's definitely come close! They've tried to teach me and get me involved, but I struggle with thinking through all the possibilities and get decision fatigue haha. Rogie had a guitar concert a few weeks ago where he had a singing solo and his artwork was on display (middle photo). It's fun to watch him in his various interests: rugby, soccer, drawing, guitar. We're excited to discover more of his interests as time goes on! We've also been so encouraged as he opens up to us more about his desires to pursue the Lord and listening to the Holy Spirit.
Last, but not least, hi! Caleb and Rachel get a turn! Caleb is loving being back in the Philippines and getting back into the swing of things. They just finished International Week in Elementary, where all the different countries at the school are represented and celebrated; it's definitely a favorite. He has been helping coach soccer once a week for an upcoming game at the end of this month and is getting into sourdough baking. I am starting to feel more settled, but had a bit of a rough go settling back into life here; I think I definitely took our furlough time for granted and had to grieve the loss of all the family time we once had. I'm finding joy in new friendships, reading books, and spending time with my family. We are incredibly blessed with the community and support we have here!
In regards to the photos above that seem a bit random: (1) we had a joint birthday party for Paul and Ruth, (2) if you've ever wondered what driving can be like in the Philippines - here ya go! The road outside of our subdivision is currently under construction, and (3) we were able to attend our church's Marriage Conference at the beginning of the month! If you made it to the end, thanks for reading my novel haha we love you all!
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