Adventures, Milestones & A Whole Lot of Gratitude

We hope this little corner of our lives brings a smile and maybe even a bit of encouragement today. It’s been a season full of movement—physically, emotionally, and spiritually—and we’re still catching our breath from all that’s unfolded. But through the whirlwind, God has been so faithful, so present, and so kind.

Let’s start with a truly unforgettable experience from February. Nikki and our daughter Crissie were given an incredible opportunity to go on a mission trip to Greece. The first few days were spent exploring the rich biblical and cultural history of Athens, Corinth, and Delphi—places we’ve read about in Scripture suddenly coming alive before their eyes. Standing in the ruins of ancient marketplaces and temples, imagining Paul preaching boldly to crowds who had never heard the gospel—it stirred something deep in both of them. It reminded us how real and living God’s Word is, and how history points us again and again to His faithfulness.

After soaking in the history, they traveled to the island of Samos, where they partnered with a ministry working with refugees from all over the Middle East and North Africa. The stories they heard were heavy—families fleeing war, persecution, and devastation—but in the middle of the heartbreak, there was also such profound hope. It was a sacred space where language barriers didn’t stop love, and the gospel was shared not just in words, but in meals prepared, hands held, and prayers whispered through tears. Crissie especially was moved by the way God used their presence to simply offer dignity and kindness in the name of Jesus. The whole trip was a powerful reminder that missions isn’t about swooping in with all the answers—it’s about showing up and being the hands and feet of Christ.

In March, Nikki joined a team from Global Youth Ministry and headed to Kodiak, Alaska to help lead a DNow weekend for students. The snow fell, the days were long, but the work was so worth it. The churches they partnered with had poured so much into preparing the event, and it was beautiful to come alongside them and share the love of Jesus with students craving truth and purpose. Seeing teenagers light up during worship, ask big questions, and lean into faith—it never gets old. And on the way back, the team had a layover in Seattle, so they squeezed in a little exploring, some sightseeing, and of course, plenty of coffee.

March was also special for another reason—Crissie turned 15 on March 19th! She celebrated with friends and family (and dirt cake, of course), and hit a huge milestone by getting her learner’s permit! It’s a little wild to think about her behind the wheel, but she’s growing into such a thoughtful, capable young woman, and we’re soaking up every bit of this new season with her.
David had a huge moment of celebration this month, too—he officially finished his Master of Divinity from Liberty University!🎓 It’s been a long journey of balancing school, family, ministry, and work, and to see him cross the finish line was such a joy. We are beyond proud of his dedication and calling, and we’re excited to see how God will use this new season in his life and leadership. Also, yes, he is now reading books for fun again… and probably writing papers in his sleep. 😂

We ended March on a high note with a family trip to see the Savannah Bananas play in Atlanta—and y’all, what an experience! It’s baseball meets circus meets comedy, and we laughed and danced nonstop. If they’re ever in your area, do yourself a favor and go. It was such a refreshing night of joy and silliness—and sometimes, that’s exactly what the soul needs.
April brought even more reasons to celebrate—Nikki had a birthday, and we were able to spend time with good friends who made the day extra sweet. It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle of life, but moments like these are such a gift. Just being with people who know you, love you, and laugh with you—there’s nothing better.

Meanwhile, Daxton has been hard at work—literally. He’s been saving up for summer camp by working for our neighborhood POA, clearing ditches and culverts and doing the kind of labor that builds both muscles and character. He’s almost got everything he needs, and we’re super proud of his determination. It’s been awesome to see him take ownership of the process and learn the value of working toward a goal. That boy has heart!

And speaking of summer camp—we’re already gearing up for another full season of ministry with Global Youth Ministry. There’s nothing quite like summer camp: messy games, late-night worship, deep conversations with our fellow youth ministry laborers, and teenagers encountering the love of Jesus—some for the very first time. We’re praying already for the students who will step foot on campus this summer, that God will meet them in powerful and personal ways. Camp is where so many seeds of faith are planted, and we’re honored (and pumped!) to be part of what God is doing.
As we look back over the last couple of months, we’re reminded that even in the hustle and the travel and the constant juggling of schedules, God is near. He’s the thread tying it all together. In Greece and Alaska, in Atlanta stadiums and neighborhood ditches—in birthday celebrations and quiet morning drives—He’s moving, speaking, shaping hearts (including ours), and calling us all deeper into His love and purpose.

Thanks for following along with us—your prayers, encouragement, and friendship mean more than you know. Here’s to more adventures, more grace, and more of Jesus in every season.