Greetings from Hiiumaa!
As the title suggests, life on Hiiumaa, nestled between the forest and the sea, has been anything but dull. One early spring morning, we woke up to a racket coming from the roof above our bedroom. A pair of ducks was wandering around, seemingly reluctant to return to the ground. Thankfully, we were spared the sight of a duck nest on our roof!
One summer night, I woke up to Kaspars running around the bedroom, trying to catch something. It turned out that a baby bat had flown in to hunt. In the morning, we found it asleep on our dresser, exhausted from its night-time adventures. We were able to help it return to a more suitable environment. At least we had a mosquito- and fly-free night! 🙂
We have now been back on Hiiumaa for over two years. Adjusting was hardest for me (Evelyn), but it seems that I am finally “settling in.” My biggest challenge this year has been searching for a new job. Wonderful colleagues, 100% remote work, and flexible hours made my previous position a perfect fit for our family life. Unfortunately, in August, the Lithuanian headquarters decided to lay off all copywriters and product specialists.
As a result, I’ve had more time to rest and catch up on work for EDN (European Disability Network). I’ve also attended several courses on artificial intelligence to develop my skills further. Currently, I’m actively looking for part-time remote work that would allow me to balance family time and my contribution to EDN’s mission. Financially, we’re managing for now, and I’ve decided I won’t start worrying until February if nothing new comes up. 🙂
Thanks to the unexpected free time, our family welcomed a little Jack Russell puppy named Frodo, bringing balance between the male and female members of the household. Frodo, our “Latvian” dog, seems to have a calmer temperament than the typical Jack Russell. However, at dog training, even large German Shepherd puppies are quick to feel Frodo’s sharp puppy teeth if they get too close to his treats! 🙂
No major changes have occurred for the other members of our family. Kaspars continues to work part-time as a physiotherapist at Hiiumaa Hospital and travels to Latvia once a month. Rebeka (6) is in her final year of kindergarten, Karola (8) is in the second grade, and Rasmus (15) is in his final year of primary school. All the children are active in sports and extracurricular activities.
Thinking about Rasmus’s future, we ask for prayers that he will secure a spot at Hiiumaa Gymnasium next year. It is the only high school on the island, and those who don’t get in must leave Hiiumaa to continue their education. Rasmus does well in his studies, but two years of online learning have left gaps in his math skills that need to be addressed. He is also in his fourth year of learning Estonian as a native language, while his peers are in their ninth. Still, we trust that if God has carried us this far, He will continue to guide us.
Wings for Wheels continues its small group ministry online this year. This summer, we also managed to meet in person and spend a day in fellowship. You can read more about that day [here].
It was incredibly encouraging to witness Aivars’ baptism. A few years ago, at a camp we organized, he said “yes” to God, and Christ became his Savior and the Lord of his life. Why do I mention this? A person who grew up in the Soviet Union and endured a challenging life journey is saved and baptized — a testament to God’s immense love for us.
The European Disability Network (EDN) also continues its work, hosting Zoom discussions on disability and Christianity every second Tuesday in January, March, May, September, and November. Participants come from various European countries, and occasionally even Africa, which is a great joy. Topics have included healing, sharing the Gospel with autistic children and youth, and reaching people with visual and hearing impairments. Europe has a vast number of people with disabilities whose needs are often overlooked in church and denominational development plans. Thankfully, there are still those who strive to raise awareness about this invisible group and find ways to support them better. I am grateful to contribute my small part to this effort.
Two years on Hiiumaa have been full of interest and surprises. We are eagerly looking forward to what 2025 will bring.
Thank you to everyone who takes an interest in our lives, intercedes for us, and supports our mission work. Although we are no longer full-time missionaries, it is comforting to know we are not alone and that we have a strong support network behind us.
With blessings
Evelyn, Kaspars, Rasmus, Karola, and Rebeka