Yikes! I never quite know what messages and pictures from Thailand I'll wake up to on any given morning. Yesterday it was this. The back of one of the children's wardrobes nearly half chewed through by termites.
Yupa says they thrive in the rainy season, and make their way indoors to feast on whatever timber-based treats they can find. I've seen an entire doorframe decimated, and some unattended books snacked on.
Partly this is because we are a little bit out of the city, much like you'll see more insects at the cottage than at home. And partly it's because our buildings are older and retrofitted, not offering the most up to date pest deterrents.
Yes, we need our new facility!!
The good news is that these wardrobes needed replacing anyways. The bad news is, this comes at a time when other first-of-the-school-year expenses increased in ways we were not expecting, due to the general state of Thai economy as a result of the global fuel crisis.
Other than the ick factor, and having to clean up the mess, everyone at Hot Springs is taking all of this, termites and tariffs and gas tanks and politics, in stride. I am amazed and inspired by the persistence and resilience and strength that is so solidly hooked to the humility and faith of Suradet and Yupa, the rest of our Staff, and the kids themselves.
All of you who support us, both financially and also in prayer and with encouragement and love, are part of this. We know we're not alone, and that keeps the nasty little surprises, and the unexpected stresses that come with, in perspective.
Thank you for all who have been stepping up in generous ways as we have moved into this calendar year. You make me glad to be partners with you in the care and well being of our children, and confident as we press forward into the future.
One way you can still participate, if you haven't already, is to check out the Practice Makes Possible Workshops that are being run in June. It is an online 2 1/2 hour experience aimed at helping us deepen our connection with God. All proceeds go to the New Facility Project.
Blessings and joy, always.
