Day 4 of the Road Trip

It was a long drive through the cornfields of Iowa and Nebraska. On Saturday, we made it to Denver and were able to spend some time with friends we haven't seen in awhile. Sunday, we were hoping to go to a Colorado Rockies baseball game but it was sold out so unfortunately, we couldn't get tickets. We weren't too upset though because it was 95 degrees. Instead, we went to a restaurant with friends to watch part of the game.


Late afternoon we jumped in Malibu and headed to Rifle Ridge Campground in Colorado. Here we camped for the night. The campground had a few hiking trails that we enjoyed last night and this morning. It was beautiful to be surrounded by waterfalls and mountains. Other than the sounds of nature, things were very peaceful. It was refreshing.



This morning we hiked a bit more at the campground before driving to Utah. We decided to skip Glenwood Hot Springs because we heard so many wonderful things about the National Parks we have on our list to see. We went to Arches National Park today and spent 6 hours hiking. It was absolutely breathtaking. Words can't begin to explain the beauty we saw today. What we did learn is that hiking is hard work and we need each other (or at least Dawn needs Justin's help) to make it through each trail.





We took 600 pictures in the past 2 days because there were so many beautiful snapshots of God's creation. We can't wait to share some of those with you. Tonight we are staying in a hotel (because the campgrounds don't have showers and after 6 hours of hiking, we needed to clean up a bit) and plan to head to Bryce National Park in the morning. We hope to camp out tomorrow night and then head to Zion National Park. This should keep us occupied for the next few days.
Thank you for all your phone calls of support and prayers being offered on our behalf. We believe that we have been safe on the road and been blessed because of your prayers. Thanks again! We love you all!

The First Day of the Adventure

Last night was our final stay at 3059 Highland Dr. Apt. A. We needed to empty out our fridge and cook the remainder of the meat in our freezer, so we decided to host a party. The little apartment was packed with friends and family. We had a great time talking, eating, and sharing our last moments together in H-ville. The party lasted late into the night, but we were up early this morning and ready to start packing. Our good friend "The Todd" cooked us an amazing breakfast and once our bellies were full we were ready to start loading the truck.



We had a great turn out of friends and family willing to help us load the truck up. All of our stuff fit into a 7ft by 9ft area. We were glad that Brian was there to show off his mad packing skills. He saved us some money since we didn't have to use all the space we thought we were going to have to use. Then at 12:39 eastern standard time we departed from Highland Dr. We turned on Waiting for Iris and let the tears roll down our faces. It was a freeing moment. We have built this move up so much over the last two months and after many good bye parties, we were ready to get on the road. Today we drove 8 hours and made it to Des Moiner Iowa (By the way the "S" are silent in case you didn't know).

The Cavy is GONE!!

Parting with people has been difficult but parting with the Cavy after driving it for 9 years was also difficult. The Cavy found a good home today with a kind family. It will be driven by a 17 year old, which will be a perfect match. One less thing on our list to complete. God is good!

Last Weekend in Michigan

Dawn spent the past weekend with "the girls" on the East Side of the state. We went camping near Lake Pontiac to the state park and it was a beautiful campsite. The beach was also beautiful (minus the sand fleas that ate up my foot). We camped out two nights and enjoyed laughs, good food, conversation, and memories. We were able to catch up on the happenings in each of our lives and remember how blessed we are to have such wonderful friendships.



I was able to find some Fire wood from the surroundings and we took turns cutting pieces up. It brought me back to our college years in Traverse City.



Between the Hobo pies and good drinks, it was a perfect weekend by the fire.



We also went to the Tigers game on Sunday afternoon. It was 85 degrees as the first pitch took place and was in the 90's by the end. It was a bummer that my Tiger didn't play because Raburn had 3 errors that game. If Inge had played we all know the game would have had a different ending. I will miss going to that stadium, having peanuts, a Jungle Juice, and singing, "Eat em up Tigers, Eat em up!"



I've learned that many things are irreplaceable. Friends, Tiger games, and being yourself around those you love will be something to be missed greatly as we continue our adventure.

Work is Done

The time if flying by. Only one more week left and so much to do. Today was Dawn's last day at work with Hospice of Holland. It was a bittersweet day. On one hand it is great to have some time off to travel, get settled, and begin this new adventure. On the other hand, she leaves knowing that there is not another job waiting for her at this time. We know God will provide but we continue to step out in faith and this can be a bit scary at times.


Here are a few pictures of where Dawn has spent the past year working. It is from the Hospice House of Holland. What a beautiful place for people to be when they are at the end of their life. It is peaceful, warm, and comforting. Dawn will miss coming to this place each day but knows there is much more waiting for her (us) in California.

Saying Goodbye to Immanuel

On August 9th, Justin and I were blown away by the wonderful service planned at Immanuel. It was a day we were anxiously waiting for, were scared of, and were afraid to experience because we thought it may hurt too much. Through many tears, laughs, and smiles we were able to reflect on our 5 years of service. It was a blessing to hear stories from some of our favorite people while being led in worship by the youth of the church. We enjoyed having our friends and family surrounding us during this time. There was not a dry eye in the place.

Here is a picture of my small group minus Ellie & Elysia. Thanks Lexie for the picture!


With heavy hearts we get ready to leave this place knowing that we will take everyone else with us. This night was touching and beautiful. We will miss many of our friends here.

Thank you to everyone who shared in this night with us. It wouldn't have been the same without you.

Detroit Tigers Game

We went to the Tigers game today. It was Natan's first game in the States and it just happened to be "Fiesta Night" at the ballpark. We walked into the stadium while Latino music was playing. They honored all the Tiger Latino players and had their flags there (including the Dominican), and gave out hats that said, "Los Tigres." It was a blast even though they lost 11-0. What a wonderful memory with Lindsay and Natan. Thanks for this night together! We will cherish it forever!

Softball with the Boys

Justin had his last softball game tonight. It has been a fun season. It was fun seeing old friends each week and also fun getting to know new ones. Mrs. Lipinski brought us treats each week and Lindsay and Dawn ate sunflower seeds. Some memories in life will never be forgotten. The season went fast and we aren't sure what we will do with our Thursdays until we leave.

Beck/Norris Going Away Party

Dad and Mom Beck threw us another big party in Eaton Rapids. It was a great turnout and it was fun seeing all our family and friends together. We had awesome food, fireworks, games, a bonfire, and lots of laughs. Here are a few family pictures from the party.



Where there is a party, there is a game of spoons. Brian started but when he left Dawn took over and won! Jill was not happy.



Best Friends Forever. I love you all so much!

Braat/VanderLugt Going Away Party

Our parents put together a nice party at my Aunt Kris' house on the lake. We had a great turnout and were able to enjoy good food, lots of laughs, and memorable fellowship. My cousin also announced she was pregnant with triplets! It was an exciting day. It was nice to gather with the family for a celebration rather than a funeral for the first time in awhile. Here are just a few family pictures from the day.



Dawn with her brothers


Justin with the Braat Brothers


The Braat Family

Baldwin and the Peralta Wedding

Baldwin 2009 was just as eventful as usual. Nick and Whitney were in town for the week, the weather was perfect, the food was spectacular, the fireworks unforgettable, and the conversation memorable. It was difficult to think that this may be our last time in Baldwin for the 4th of July. This is one of our best weeks during the year and we would surely miss the experience. Here are just a few pictures from the cottage.




After relaxing in Baldwin we all geared up for Natan and Lindsay's wedding that following weekend in Holland, MI. It was a beautiful day with many beautiful people. We have enjoyed watching Natan and Lindsay grow more in love each day. We have also enjoyed getting to know Natan and seeing him adjust to all the American Culture. We have laughed and cried a lot together.

Choosing Fuller Theological Seminary

After years of desiring to go to seminary, we decided that Fuller Theological Seminary was where we were being called to. We took a trip to Portland, Oregon to look at George Fox Seminary as well but didn't feel as much of a connection there. The decision is made and we are getting ready for the big move.