Summer 2018 Update

Our New Normal From East to West. We finally made the move across the world last June. We packed up all our worldly belongings either into boxes to be stored, or suitcases to take with us for the year. Our new place in Arizona couldn’t be any more opposite from our house in the Philippines. We went from high cement walls with barbed wire across the top, to acres of desert and no locks on the doors. From the middle of a noisy Asian city to the middle of small town USA. Below is our journey... Scan the photos below for a quick update about our lives these last few months.  Then see 5 ways you can be involved in the ministry.   Moving is Hard!! Packing all your belongings, saying goodbye to your dog, one last snuggle with your cat in an empty house... Even with all that we are so grateful to have places for our pets stay and friends who helped us every step of the way.  Goodbye parties and last hugs with friends...  Travel time!! Lots of bags! Eleven to be exact, not counting carry-ons. It's a long way back to the States, sometimes you just need your Dad to carry you or a quick nap in the airport. New beginnings... Hello Arizona. Hello new kittens and cowboy boots. Hello new house and driver's permit.  Family time!! One super hard thing about living overseas is being so far away from family. We are so grateful we had a chance to spend time with them this summer.  Our summer road trip not only took us to see family but also a few supporters and friends along the way (one picture is even in the top of the Arch in St. Louis). We finally made it to Michigan to spend time with our SEND family (last picture) and even a quick stop to visit best friends on the way home.   These last few pictures are of life... Starting school without uniforms, turning 6 years old,  school sports, and donating beloved hair.  What's next? We are here in the US for another 9 months. During that time we will prepare to go back in order to continue our ministry in the Philippines for another 4 years.   Read Our Blog- Padens in the Philippines 5 Ways You Can Help 1. Join our prayer team. Please email us to sign up and we will send you regular prayer updates. 2. Partner financially. We need to raise a significant amount to go back ($1,500 per month) and you could be part of that team. Or if you already support, maybe you would like to increase monthly? click here to support online 3. A one time gift toward a new vehicle in the Philippines. Our van in the Philippines was old and broke down at least once a month. We sold if before we left and need to buy something more reliable when we return. Just click and make a note that it goes toward our vehicle fund. 4. Invite us to share with your church or group. While we are home in the US this year we would love to come and share with your church or group about our ministry. 5. Deputation costs. Making a one time gift toward the cost of traveling and visiting churches while we are stateside would really help. Just make a note of that when you give.  Give Online Now Thanks again for taking the time to read our update. Your partnership in our minisrty is what makes this all possible. Serving Him, Gilmer and Julie Paden (Nhaya, Caleb, Josiah, and Luke) SEND Int'l