First summer on the Rez!

Our first summer of ministry on the Yakama Reservation is coming to a close. We have blown many bubbles, drawn a few sidewalk chalk pictures, given several piggy back rides, and transitioned to life here in a studio space. One room living has been the way to go during this time. Zeke always knows where we are and this has been key to his security.

Zack has learned so much about roofing and general contracting this summer. Next summer, he will have a very active role in the construction that the work groups and staff complete. We were able to see the Lord's perfect timing in our move one month after we arrived. Due to a family emergency, Uncle Dave, the construction team leader, had to leave for several weeks. Zack coordinated the work during that time. We got a glimpse of one of his roles here. He is excited to learn more this fall and next spring which will enable us to love our neighbors well through sound construction methods.

Photo cred: Davy Granberry

The first step to becoming a school bus driver is complete. Zack got his CDL learners permit last week! The next month will be a time of completing driving hours for training. This license will provide income and benefits that we currently need given our level of support. Zack is glad to have the opportunity to see the kids on a daily basis and he will be another trained driver for the ministry routes. Zeke loves to wave and say goodbye to everyone aboard the church bus!

We will attend COMPASS at Mission Training International from mid September to mid October. This will be a time that we will learn about cultural differences, team dynamics, and personal growth.
All the current SRM staff have attended and we are looking forward to gleaning from others experience from their time on field.

We have a few prayer requests that we are sharing:

1. Housing! It is very hard to find decent and affordable housing on the Reservation. We have applied for a rural development loan and are waiting for approval. We have been looking for a rental home and have an option which we will view later this week! 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

2. Schooling! Due to our transition and lack of preschools close by, we decided earlier this year to keep Zeke home for the next two years. Tollie will lead this work using The Homegrown Preschooler's A Year of Playing Skillfully curriculum. Please pray for Zeke and Tollie as they begin the end of August. 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

3. Travel and Transition Again! We have gotten settled here in WA, but will leave for CO in a short six weeks. Zeke's transition here has been very hard. He is much better now that things are more familiar. We know that the time at COMPASS will be worth it, but we need prayers for our little man who is going to be confused why we are leaving our new home so quickly. We are anticipating another transitional time when we return back to the Reservation. 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

 The below pictures are just a glimpse of summer time here!