Although we enjoy God’s amazing creation of winter, we are really thankful we don’t live any further north. Our bodies are a little wimpy after living so many years in the tropics! We are really enjoying the more springlike weather we’ve been experiencing recently, and seeing new life pop up around us, especially here in our new home, as we aren’t sure yet what kind of plants, etc. are going to appear. This new life is a great reminder, of course, of the new life that God Almighty has freely given us through His Son; how grateful we are!
We really loved having all our kids home for Christmas. It was great to catch up on each other’s lives and have time to relax and enjoy everyone’s company. The time went quickly, but we are thankful for the memories made and time shared.
Just before the kids all came in December, we got a new family member. This cute little Shih Poo (Shih Tzu/Poodle mix) came into our home and hearts and has brought lots of joy and fun for us all. We named her Shaddai because of all the great and mighty things El Shaddai (God Almighty) has done for us over the years. She is a constant reminder of God’s goodness.
Speaking of new family members, we are expecting another one this summer! Along with this one, we will receive new names and new roles. For those that haven’t heard yet, Bethany and Zach are expecting their first baby, our first grandchild, around August 1 st! We are so excited! We’ve heard that being grandparents is wonderful and we look forward to finding out how true that is!
We don’t want to bore you with the details, but Melanie has been dealing with some nagging health issues. We are thankful to be back in the States with better medical care, but we need wisdom to know which issues need attention. We would appreciate your prayers for that wisdom, for God’s provision for the extra medical expenses, and also for stamina for Melanie dealing with more pain and limitations than she already has.
The start of the new semester at the Missionary Training Center in January brought the opportunity for John to teach some classes and for further involvement with our ministry of training families for cross cultural life and ministry overseas. We enjoy our interaction with the students, as well as the staff with whom we work.
Things are getting busier for us here over the next couple of months with our ministry, as well as personal activities. Many year-end events, a lot having to do with having a high school senior, are on the calendar. These events will culminate with Josh’s graduation from high school on May 22nd and then he leaves for his missions trip on the 26th. You should have already received his letter about the trip. We appreciate your prayers for him.
Thank you for partnering with us! We appreciate you being part of our team through your prayers, gifts, and encouragement
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