June 22, 2009

We are beginning a blog so that we can keep people updated on what is happening, what we need (the most popular question due to all of you being the most wonderful people), and how we are doing.

Today was our last day of not being able to do "anything." Tomorrow our former home will be unboarded for a while so we can go back in and salvage what may be left. Although there is not furniture that could be saved, there are good papers, a few photos, and maybe our address book, that have been pleasant surprises so far.

This will also be when we meet with our insurance people and get that ball rolling as well. Although looking at the piles of burned "stuff" is a bit hard, it is also a bit of a relief. At the very least, it helps us know what we are saying "good bye" to and put some serious finality on the end of the "messy" era of our life and hopefully, enter into a greater simplicity - one of the joys of this experience (we are looking for them!).

For those who have meeting so many of our crazy needs, thank you over and over. And for those who have been asking what you can do and what we need...our first need is prayer. It is making all the difference in the world for all of us. Secondly, please keep letting us know you are out there. There are moments, because we've been displaced, that we are feeling a bit disoriented, and hearing from you makes this much better.

Last of all, for those who are hoping to help us "start over," we are going to register at Target and possibly Kohls or another department store for our basic needs. Then, whether an item is provided from another home, or from the store, we can simply mark it off and everyone will know. This has also helped us greatly as it's very hard to remember what was there when it isn't anymore.

We love you all, rejoice in the love you are surrounding us with, praise the Lord moment by moment for all His mercies, and look forward to inviting people over to our house again!

The Andersons