From day 1 they have just fit. I remember walking around the quad, nervously reading the names far before anyone else had gotten in. And through deductive reasoning of space occupation we discovered that the Wilkins had some kids. When I met them all nerves immediately dissolved.

Our Wilkins fit right into our family right off the bat. The way Rebecca takes motherhood with grace and honesty, yes I immediately found in her a kindred spirit. Oh the kiddos may be exhausting, but she just delights in them so. And her heart for Jesus is just beautiful. I have become a better follower of Jesus through Rebecca’s steadfast example.

Chris’ jokes and playfulness radiate in his kids’ smiles. And I have just loved waking into a room to find Matt and Chris deep in conversation, marveling over Jesus.

And let me tell you what has been just plain beautiful to watch?

These precious friendships.

From singing “We are BFFs!” on the streets of New York City

to skipping two-by-two to breakfasts, lunches and dinners together. These little friends have just delighted in each other. You’d think they’d get sick of each other after spending all day in classes together, but oh how they can’t wait to run out and see our Wilkins in the living room each morning. It’s so beautifully precious how they love each other and care for each other. Everyone is included. Everyone is a playmate.

We have made some wonderful memories with our Wilkins. Wonderful memories that will last a lifetime. And we’re sure hopeful to make memories on the other side of the ocean too since our dear Wilkins are only a country away. =)

I can’t possible put into words how thankful I am for this dear family. And our goodbye hugs will be really, really hard.

But I am so incredibly thankful that we are sending them off into all that God has prepared for them.

There are no words for the imprints they have made on our hearts.

Thank you, Jesus, for our Wilkins.