It has been entirely too long since we have posted an update and we ask that you please forgive us for our lack of communication. We have learned that life is a little more hectic on this side of the ocean. We are asked many questions about our time in Swaziland, but one of the most common is “what do you miss most?”. Without a doubt our Swazi family tops the list, but after that it would be the “lifestyle” we lived there, much more relational and laid back. Still we are very thankful for this season the Lord has us in and we have a lot to share with you.
Yes, we are still serving Swaziland with Adventures in Missions and we are really enjoying living and working in Gainesville, Georgia. It is hard to believe that we have lived in Gainesville for over a year and a half. Everyday the Lord confirms that we are exactly where He wants us. We never could have imagined a time where He would need/want us more in the States than in Swaziland. Silly us.
Mark continues to work closely with the missionaries and national staff in Swaziland. He helps coordinate all of our partnerships and programs providing accountability to our partners here in the States. He has learned so much from Scott Borg, stateside Manager, all the things about this side of the ministry and Mark is being equipped every day to bring even more value to the staff on the field. Mark travels back to Swaziland a couple times of year to continue to put in place the best systems and processes to complete the many tasks that have to be done. The Lord has blessed the ministry and it continues to grow and develop. With that Mark’s role and responsibilities continue to grow and develop. This is a challenge Mark takes very seriously and is excited to see what the Lord has in store.
Allison has recently become more involved with the Timbali Crafts ministry in Gainesville. You may have seen/heard that Timbali has opened a warehouse/retail space in the heart of Gainesville. Her main role is to coordinate all of the internet orders, retail orders, and manage the retail store part time. She works closely with Marcia Borg, the stateside director for Timbali and enjoys learning and serving along side her.
Madeline and Emma are thriving in their 2nd year of non-homeschool education. It has been quite an adjustment for both of them and they are still learning everyday how to live as a third culture kids. Hard to believe, but Madeline is a senior and is applying to colleges. She is planning on majoring in Art Education and Physics with a minor in Math. Emma is in 8th grade and loves telling stories and writing reports about her memories of Swaziland. She already feels like she is being called to serve full time in Swaziland one day.
Our last born, Ruby Mae (our Doberman), is doing well and she loves chasing the squirrels, chipmunks, and occasional deer in the back yard. It is not the same as the giant monitor lizards and snakes in the back yard in Swaziland, but she is adjusting. Being able to bring her back has been a blessing as she reminds us of our time in Swaziland daily.
So what does the future hold for the Clyburn family? It is always our hope and sincere desire to live a life of obedience to the Lord and we know we are to continue to serve here in Gainesville, Georgia. To all of our faithful prayer and financial partners, thank you for being a part of our journey. The Lord continues to amaze us with His provision and loving support through His people.
Blessings,
Mark, Allison, Madeline, and Emma
