We stepped right into April with Easter, which is celebrated here in Guatemala as Semana Santa. This is one of the biggest and most meaningful times of the year in the country. Entire cities come to life with daily processions that fill the streets and often shut down major roads for hours. People spend countless hours creating intricate alfombras, or carpets, out of colored sawdust, flowers, fruits, and vegetables. These beautiful works of art line the streets and are then walked over by the processions passing through. It is both stunning and deeply meaningful, reflecting the culture, tradition, and faith of the people here.
With so much happening around us, we chose to use that week as intentional family time at home. We slowed down and enjoyed simple moments together, dyeing eggs, cooling off in our little pool, and just having fun as a family of three before everything changes in the coming weeks. It also ended up being a really helpful week on the ministry side, as some of the staff were off, which gave Jay the perfect opportunity to catch up on a lot of vehicle work without having to rearrange schedules or pull away from other responsibilities.
After that restful time, we began preparing for our next team, which was the last one before my maternity leave begins. We had a great week with them overall, but it came with some challenges. Logan got sick again, this time with an intestinal infection. It started off mild, but as the week went on, she got worse and was eating and drinking less.
By Friday, Jay was out with the team at the feeding program, and I could tell something was not right. Logan had become very lethargic and was refusing to drink anything. As soon as Jay got home, we headed straight to the ER. She received an IV, and we saw improvement almost immediately. It was clear her body just needed that extra support to begin recovering. We are so thankful for how quickly she responded and how the Lord provided the care she needed in that moment, and for our family who stepped in and helped with the team responsibilities so Jay could be with us.
A huge praise this month is that we got our truck back. It had a engine overhaul, which is a major repair. With a job that big, it is normal to have a few small things that need adjusting afterward. We have already noticed one thing that will need a little more attention, but that is to be expected. We are grateful to have it running again and thankful for the work that has been done.
We also made it a priority to have one last intentional day as a family of three before Presley arrives. We wanted to create a special memory for Logan (and us), so we planned a zoo day. She had the best time, and it was even more fun because her cousin Ahsoka was able to come too. They are only ten weeks apart and love being together. It was such a sweet day and a meaningful time to give Logan our full attention before this next season begins.
And in true “why not add one more thing before a newborn arrives” fashion, we somehow ended up with a bunny this month. Someone was giving it away for free, and since we already had supplies, it felt like an easy and exciting yes. Logan is absolutely obsessed and loves her new little pet, so we are calling it a win… for now. Meet Fluffer.
We have also felt so incredibly loved this past month. Some of our friends and family here blessed us by throwing a baby sprinkle and helping us prepare for Presley’s arrival. More than anything, it was such a sweet time of being surrounded, encouraged, and truly showered with love and support.
Ways to Pray:
- A safe and healthy natural delivery for Presley and I– little under four weeks to go
- Health for all of us, that our bodies would stay strong and protected
- That we can get the remaining small fixes on the truck completed quickly
- Financial provision. The ER visit, car insurance, and a few unexpected repairs made this past month a bit heavier financially. We also have upcoming expenses with doctor visits, the birth, and everything that comes with that. We are so thankful for how clearly God has already provided in many ways, and we are trusting Him to continue providing for what is ahead
- For Jay as he sets up his office and begins working with the 3D printer. He is very excited about this, so please pray for wisdom, clarity, and a smooth setup process
Thank you for praying with us, supporting us, and being part of what God is doing here. We are so grateful for each of you.
As we look ahead, we are preparing our hearts and home for Presley’s arrival and stepping into maternity leave. We are also so incredibly thankful that my parents will be coming to visit shortly after Presley arrives. It is such a gift to have that support during those first weeks, and we are really looking forward to that time together as a family.
For those who have been asking how to support us from afar, thank you. It truly means so much to us. Since my parents will be visiting soon, they are able to bring a few things down with them if needed. We have Amazon wishlist for baby items for anyone who has been asking, but please feel no pressure at all. Your prayers, encouragement, and support mean more to us than anything.
Financial Support
For those who have asked about giving, thank you so much for your generosity and heart to support what God is doing here.
- You can give through our website at jaykelsie.com using the donate link on the front page. There is also information there for those who are giving from Canada.
- You can also give through PayPal at kgwester@gmail.com.
If you have any questions about giving or are looking for other ways to support, feel free to reach out to us directly. We are always happy to connect and share more.
Thank you so much for your prayers and continued support. We truly see this as a team effort, and it means so much to know that we are not doing this alone. Each of you plays a part in what God is doing here, and we are so grateful to be in this together as we continue in this season of ministry. With Presley arriving soon and maternity leave beginning in about two weeks, we will most likely not send out another update until the end of June as we take some time to step back and be with our family during this special season.
Love,
Jay, Kelsie, and Logan
