GRANDPARENTS ARRIVE!

July 30, 2008

We had a great two weeks visit with Jeff’s parents. As you can imagine, the kids excitedly awaited their arrival and immediately hugged them as they stepped from the plane (even Tyler who was jus two when they were last here). This was their third time to visit us in the three years we have been here. We are always so blessed by their willingness to step out of their comfort zone and come to Paraguay. They showered us with gifts, encouraged us in our work and made some great memories for the grandkids. This was their first trip out to our house in the rural area. Their eyes were wide as we journeyed out and especially as we hit the dirt road. Jeff’s mom kept saying, “You are so far out here!” Throughout the trip both she and Ted mentioned that our life in rural Paraguay reminded them of their growing up years – dirt roads, gas stoves, simple houses, and all the farm animals. These memories generated fascinating and priceless stories from their youth. While they were here we took a trip to Encarnacion to view the Jesuit Ruins.

Amy and Jeff's mom, Carol


Grandma reading to Ginny


Grandpa and Ginny flying


We killed one of our ducks and
cooked it for dinner. Jeff and his
dad are hanging up the dead duck
to drain the blood.


Playing with Grandpa just before
saying good-bye at the airport.


Grandpa teaching Tyler to play chess


Playing Settlers


Jesuit Ruins


Jesuit Ruins

JULY 2008

HAPPY BIRTHDAY AMERICA!!!

July 4, 2008

It is always a bit challenging celebrating American holidays over seas. For 4^th of July this year we were in Asuncion. Our newest team mates, the Terharrs invited us over for the evening. They provided the dinner and we provided the fire crackers. It is on holidays such as these that I am reminded that my husband is a little kid trapped in a grown up body. He loves blowing things up (like onions and watermelons) with the firecrackers and setting off the biggest rockets. The younger kids loved the sparklers and the older kids loved lighting the big loud ones. Micah was scared and fascinated at the same time. He kept saying, “Go” but when we went inside he cried to go back out and watch. We had a fun night celebrating America’s birthday.

Jeff and the other"kids" lighting fire crackers


Micah 21 months

SPIRITUAL LIFE RETREAT

July 12, 2008

We just came back from our annual SIM retreat. This year we had it at a hotel about 45 minutes outside of Asuncion. A pastor (from one of our missionary’s supporting churches) and his wife came from the states to minister to us. Each morning Pastor Chan brought us a timely word on the highs and lows of Elijah’s life. How wonderful it was to sit in “church” and not be interrupted by kids – thanks to a wonderful group (from another missionary’s supporting church) who came to give our kids a VBS experience. They loved every minute of the Cowboy themed days and learned new songs, made cute crafts, and made some new friends. The weather was wonderful and the kids swam each afternoon and played on the play ground. Of course, the highlight each year for the kids is the bonfire and s’mores. We also had a group come from the states to lead us in worship. It is an incredible time of renewal and relaxation.

During three afternoons we had the option of going on a field trip. The first day Ryan and Jeff went on a ropes course. The following day Ryan and I went to see an old volcano rock formation. On the third day we all went horse-back riding. Jeff and I stayed up way too late (1am) all 4 nights playing volleyball. We were so tired last night that we went to bed at 8:30!

So now we are (again) at the Asuncion guest house waiting for Jeff’s parents to fly in on Monday.

Ginny enjoying a sunny day at the pool


Joshua riding a horse


Ryan (in the black) and Ginny (in the
pink) riding horses one afternoon


Bringing in the cows via horse


Peek-a-boo Tyler