Bracing Abigail

December 1, 2014

The first two months here in the States, our priorities are focused on our family needs. At the top of the list is our daughter Abigail’s scoliosis. For the last three years we have monitored her curves but the doctor in the Philippines did not want to put her into the hard shell, uncomfortable brace […]

Winter Blessings

November 24, 2014

As many of you know, we arrived back to the States just three weeks ago. From one day to the next, we went from the high temperature of 92 in the Philippines to 42 in Michigan. One day, in the Philippines, we were wearing shorts and flip-flops. The next day, in Michigan, the apparel was […]

Celebrating Fall

November 18, 2014

One of Ginger’s favorite seasons is fall. We knew we were coming to the States late in this season, and her desire was that the Lord would save a few colorful trees for her to enjoy. God is so good even to answer such whimsical desires! The trees directly outside our window are very beautifully […]

Praise the Lord!

November 6, 2014

Wednesday started out warm and humid at the Manila airport. The same day, 28 hours later, it ended cold and dry in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Yes, this very long day is the day we asked you all to be praying for and we witnessed God’s answers to your prayers. We only had two connections with […]

Bittersweet

October 20, 2014

Months have become weeks, weeks have become days, and now days have become hours . . . until we leave the village to return to the States for our Home-Assignment. Our hearts our torn during these last few hours. Yes, we want to see our families and friends again. Yes, we would enjoy clean water […]

Braces to Brace

September 28, 2014

We are now only a few short weeks away from boarding the plane that will take us back to the States. In preparation for our return, Rebekah’s orthodontic braces have just come off and she is all smiles. During the last 24 months, Rebekah has had an expander, two canines surgically pulled into place, braces, […]

Another Side of the Story

September 4, 2014

Our hearts rejoice in the Lord when an Agutaynen turns to Christ and believes in Him alone for their salvation. But sadly, there is another side of the story: those who reject Him and the Good News. It breaks hearts to see many of our neighbors who have done this. They have heard the clear […]

Firm Foundation

August 11, 2014

We are so excited that the water tank tower project has come to a successful completion. After 10 weeks of planning and working, the water tank was moved to its new cement stand and the old rotten wood tower was pulled down. After seeing the condition of the old wood, Stephen was absolutely amazed that […]

Typhoon and a Volcano

July 20, 2014

Last Wednesday morning the winds were blowing and the rain was pounding as Typhoon Glenda made its presence known here in Manila. We had just arrived hours before to Manila to await the arrival of Ginger’s brother, David, and his family. Trees were falling, the power went out and we lost internet connection. And on […]

Celebrating the Fourth

July 7, 2014

When it is the Fourth of July, what do you think of? Independence! Red, white and blue! Parades and fireworks! As Americans living in another country, we desire our kids to know about their home country and the holidays that are celebrated there among you. So, we try to remember these special days and make […]