hOLTON hIGHLIGHTS

long long ago in a land far away

2009-05-19T22:06:00.000-07:00

I started this blog right before we left for Hawaii, then Guatemala. I once thought I'd update this weekly, then monthly, now it's whenever. Sorry to anyone who may check in regularly or should I say thank you.
We are excited to have Steph coming to the mainland for the summer. For those who know her and would like to see her, give her or us a call or stop by after June 13. She should be here through July, then in and out for a time, but still in the NW.

Eli turns 14, back in November

2009-03-22T21:38:00.000-07:00

Boys just wanna have fun......I love that they still love to play. The next day they went to the football field with several more of the guys and played football in the pouring rain. Great times and memories.

God is hilarious....

2009-03-22T20:42:00.000-07:00

I have always found zebras to be one of the funniest animals that God created. This picture was taken from a friends blog. They actually live in Africa.

Having some fun in Hawaii-Christmas 2008

2009-01-07T21:33:00.000-08:00

A friend sent me this with a note that maybe she wasn't such a boring person afterall. I never thought you were boring Christina!
Hers's my responses to the list.

*1. Started your own blog
*2. Slept under the stars
3. Played in a band
*4. Visited Hawaii
*5. Watched a meteor shower
*6. Given more than you can afford to charity
*7. Been to Disneyworld(Disneyland)
*8. Climbed a mountain
*9. Held a praying mantis
10. Sang a solo
11. Bungee jumped
12. Visited Paris
*13. Watched a lightning storm at sea-does a large lake count?
*14. Taught yourself an art from scratch
15. Adopted a child
*16. Had food poisoning-haven't we all!
17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty
*18. Grown your own vegetables
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France
20. Slept on an overnight train
*21. Had a pillow fight
*22. Hitch hiked
23. Taken a sick day when you're not ill
*24. Built a snow fort
*25. Held a lamb
*26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Run a marathon
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice
*29. Seen a total eclipse
*30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
*31. Hit a home run
*32. Been on a cruise
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors
*35. Seen an Amish community
*36. Taught yourself a new language-a work in progress
*37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing
40. Seen Michelangelo's David
41. Sung karaoke
*42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
*43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant
*44. Visited Africa
*45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
46. Been transported in an ambulance
47. Had your portrait painted
48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
*51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
*52. Kissed in the rain
*53. Played in the mud
*54. Gone to a drive-in theater
*55. Been in a movie-does a local comercial count, and our daughter was on Lost
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
*57. Started a business
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Visited Russia
*60. Served at a soup kitchen
*61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies
*62. Gone whale watching
*63. Got flowers for no reason
*64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma
65. Gone sky diving
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp
*67. Bounced a check
*68. Flown in a helicopter-scared me to death(well nearly so)
*69. Saved a favorite childhood toy (book!)
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
71. Eaten Caviar
*72. Pieced a quilt
*73. Stood in Times Square
*74. Toured the Everglades
*75. Been fired/laid off from a job
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London
*77. Broken a bone
*78. Been on a speeding motorcycle
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person
80. Published a book (in a few months anyway)
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in Jerusalem
*84. Had your picture in the newspaper
*85. Read the entire Bible
86.Visited the White House
*87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
*88. Had chickenpox
89. Saved someone's life
*90. Sat on a jury
91. Met someone famous
92. Joined a book club
*93. Lost a loved one
*94. Had a baby
95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake
97. Been involved in a law suit
*98. Owned a cell phone
*99. Been stung by a bee
100. Seen Mount Rushmore in person
*101. Learned to play an instrument
102. Kissed the Blarney Stone
103. Ridden a camel
104. Ridden an Elephant
105. Petted a cheetah
106. Eaten Opposum-gross....

Merry Christmas

2008-12-25T22:31:00.000-08:00

Hi all. We are in Hawaii enjoying Christmas with Stephanie. Eli, Bob and I are taking full advantage of the sun and ocean. Oh to feel the warmth on our faces. It was snowy and icey in Oregon for more than a week before we left. I'll add pictures as soon as possible. We went and saw Steph dancing at the Christmas eve service here in Honolulu.

Love these kiddos

2008-11-05T23:27:00.001-08:00

the "Tourists" I love the ABC bag, it totally makes the costume.

Hopefully this is as close as he ever gets to a motorcycle......

Brother and sister mugging for the camera.

Fall color

2008-10-29T21:11:00.004-07:00

Happy Fall.
I love the changing of the seasons. The old ones mark is left behind as the new one ushers in an unexpected freshness. I know it's coming but it always brings me joy. Shuffling through the fallen leaves, checking out the changing colors, and even putting on a sweater. They all signal a change, a chance to enjoy once again, Gods' creation anew. I just seem to feel different about things when the seasons change, ready for what God has in-store.

YWAM revisited, well almost

2008-10-09T22:05:00.003-07:00

I met these lovely ladies in Kona, HI in 2006. Amanda(long blonde hair)was our school leader, Tina(sassy new hair cut) was one of our staff leaders, and Alexis (cute prego one) was one of my fellow students. Alexis is now married, Tina is managing a Starbucks in Canada, and Amanda is making a new life for herself right here in Oregon. We all met up in Portland last week and had a fun time together. Ya, Bob was with us, but he took most of the pictures so wasn't in to many. Can't wait to meet the new little girl who will soon be joining us.

2008-09-24T13:09:00.007-07:00

Seems like so long ago that Adam left for school and now he is returning from his externship. He was in Waterton Lakes Park, Alberta, Canada, working at the Prince of Wales Hotel. The food, of course, was excellent!!!
Bob, Eli and I went for a visit so I thought I'd show you some pictures. They really tell the story better than I can.

I think you can figure whats what!!! It was awesome to see so much wildlife. We saw bear also, but to far away for a decent picture.

Enjoying a little sun out on Waterton Lake. We were actually in American waters when this picture was taken. The park is part of an international Peace Park with Glacier Park in the USA.

Bob,ELi and I on top of "Bears Hump", a grueling uphill hike, but so worth the view.

Eli and I on the shore of Linton(sp)Lake(took about 20 minutes to hike around it)

This and that

2008-08-25T08:16:00.005-07:00

Singing songs on a sunny summer Saturday.

A little tag football on a sunny summer day.

What to do on a rainy summer day...

Perspective

2008-08-19T10:37:00.003-07:00

I was looking for a picture of Steph to put here (one she recently sent us)but I couldn't find it. Truth be told, I just didn't know how to get it from the email to here. This reminded me of her for many reasons. For those of you who know her, you can surmise for yourselves what they are and for those not in the know you can use your imaginations!!!!
"Perspective"
When God speaks to me I "hear" him in many different ways. Sometimes it's in something I see, like a beautiful sunset, the smile of loved ones. Other times it might be in what I am hearing; a song, the laughter of a child, even in the thunder. What kid, growing up in the Midwest, wasn't told it was God and the angels having a bowling match!!! The fragrance of a flower, the smell of a baby, arouse my sense of smell and remind me of the Creator of all things. And how can a stone be both smooth and hard? As I hold it in my hand and feel it's weight, it's softness and hardness at the same time, it's mind boggling. God also uses my sense of taste. That perfectly ripe strawberry, the steak cooked to perfection, that fresh picked ear of corn. Who am I to deny the existence of a loving God, I should daily be extolling his greatness, his majesty.
This past Sunday a man from our church spoke on the importance of putting things in our lives in the proper perspective. Do we live by fear, which usually involves our senses or do we look to God and see things in the proper spiritual perspective. When he spoke of David, the boy, going up against Goliath, he, David, had the proper perspective. When I go up against my Goliaths, do I?
This challenged me. We are flesh, we are full of senses. God uses those senses to speak to us, to me. Yet, they can be a stumbling block as well as a source of wonderment. How do I know the difference? How do I separate my feelings, my reactions in my senses, from what God wants from me or what the enemy would like me to do? I don't. Only "He that is in me", can. Only by putting things into their proper spiritual perspective can I be who and what God wants me to be. May God help me day to day, moment to moment, to see my situations through His perspective.

Rooster man...

2008-07-29T19:23:00.004-07:00

After reviewing my last several post, I realized I hadn't really put anything about Eli on here in a while.
The many faces of Eli.
As the Rooster, in a fundraiser for our local animal shelter (they did the Tortoise and the Hare)
Hanging with his buddy Dallas.
In the music room doing his thing!!!!

"The Prince"

2008-07-19T18:48:00.002-07:00

Adam is loving Canada and working at "The Prince." (Prince of Wales Hotel in Waterton, Canada.) He is cooking up a storm and enjoying his surroundings as often as possible. We hope to go visit before his externship ends.

For Susan!!!!!!!

2008-07-03T20:36:00.004-07:00

Hey Susan,
Here are some more pics for your enjoyment.
There's nothing like kayaking in the Caribbean. This picture is already hanging in our house.

Relaxing with my honey.....

2008-06-13T09:51:00.004-07:00

Bob and I went to Cancun, Mexico in celebration of our 30th wedding anniversary!

Hope springing eternal...

2008-05-26T13:51:00.004-07:00

"Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and cetain of what we do not see." Hebrews 11:1
They say it's spring, but the weather doesn't support that comment. So as we sit here in Oregon, chillin', waiting for the spring weather, we still proceed with hope. Gardens are being dug and planted. Flower beds are awakening with lots of "spring" color and hopes of summer glory.
I'd like to always live my life like this. Proceeding with the hope and assurance I have in Christ Jesus and being certain of what I do not see or know! When I do step out in faith, it is so awesome to feel God working through me. I don't always get to see the end results, in fact, that is rare. Yet I know He is doing something, even if that something is only in me and not in those I think I am reaching out to.
Yesterday at church, Amanda challenged us to see the individual, not just the need
"People with needs are always going to be among us, but can we see them as more than just a NEED?" To love as Christ loves. When we do that, we will often times not see the results of our actions, yet we can be assured that Christ in us, will do more that feed the hungry, house the homelss, heal the sick.
Proceed with hope. Go out with love. Spring is coming.....

Where I'd like to be somedays......

2008-05-04T08:33:00.002-07:00

It's Official....
She's an island girl!!!!!

Adam at school in Portland

2008-04-27T15:42:00.002-07:00

Adam getting ready to cook us a yummy meal at Oregon Culinary Institute

The "chef" visits our table
Adam is getting ready to head off to Banff Canada to do his internship.
He will be at the Prince of Wales Hotel for 16 weeks beginning June 5.

HAPPY GOLDEN BIRTHDAY ADAM-SWEET 19

2008-02-19T11:10:00.001-08:00

Snow and such

2008-02-11T11:57:00.000-08:00

Well the new year is well under way and I am just getting back to this blog.
I am thrilled to learn of another Holton family out there serving our Lord.
Not to much new yet this year. Eli is playing basketball and really enjoying himself. Adam is doing well at school and beginning to look at locations for his internship, look out world! Steph is enjoying life in Hawaii and still going through a little transition phase. She is currently living and working full time with a family that she nannies for. She is hoping to get a place with some friends in the near future, while continueing to nanny. Fall will find her going to school in Hawaii full time.
At this time Bob and I have no mission trips planned, though we are always open to what the Lord has for us. We do have a triped planned though. We are planning on spoiling ourselves this year in celebration of our 30th wedding anniversary!!
Just had a delightful visit from my sister Margo. It was great to have her here in Philomath and to introduce her to all the "church ladies" ( several, who have been my sisters for over 20 years) and my home schooling friends. My family doesn't get to see me in my own element very often. I hope she liked what she saw even if she didn't understand it all. Love ya sis.
We are looking forward to another fun eventful year. I'll try to keep you posted as things transpire.
The photos are out front of our house one wintery morning in January and Margo and I at the beach.

SEASON GREETING

2007-12-17T10:06:00.000-08:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR.
TALK TO YOU ALL NEXT YEAR.
MAY THE LOVE OF CHRIST BE REAL
TO ALL OF YOU THIS HOLIDAY SEASON.

Where we go.....

2007-11-28T15:21:00.000-08:00

In response to my emotions brought on by my last blog entry I feel compelled to share my thoughts. Missing our kids is normal and healthy for both sides. It means they have moved forward in their lives and we can know look at them through the eyes of our memories without all the messy stuff. At least that is how I like to do it! We also get to see them in their new roll as independent grown ups (or almost grown up/almost independent). Yes we still supply support, but won't we always, as parents support our kids in some ways? Be it financial, emotional and always spiritual.
I was thinking about my mom the other day (she passed away almost 6 years ago) and I was missing her. I missed her alot the last 30 years. Not unhealthily, just as a daughter misses her mom whom she doesn't see often. I realized I am not unique in my family as the daughter who left the family "behind", to explore new worlds. Starting back with my Grandmother DeVictor, she left Italy on a boat, never to return to her family. She entered the USA through Ellis Island one day in the early 1900's as one of thousands. She must have felt lost and alone, yet ready for what the new world held for her. She was a strong woman and I loved her dearly, though we didn't see her often. My mom, her daughter, also left home. First to get her college education, she never did, interrupted by WWII. Than she married my dad and left her family and moved north. She was amazing in her own ways. Strong, like her mother, funny like no other, and all about family. Maybe being away from hers caused her to cherish us a little more. Then there is me, I moved across the country, got married, started a family and rarely visited. Not because I didn't want to, just because. Life keeps us occupied, I just always tried to be occupied with good things. God, my husband, kids, friends and even strangers at times.
Now my daughter has moved across an ocean. She is doing good things, serving God, making friends, blessing strangers and yes, she visits as often as she can. I know someday that may change. For know, I cherish every minute with her, for someday she will have another who will occupy her thoughts more than family does. And that is good and right.
It doesn't make me miss my kids any less, it's just nice to share my thoughts and feelings. May all who read this feel blessed this Christmas by the love of God, who never leaves us.
Moving onward towards...........

Missing my kids.....

2007-11-27T16:54:00.000-08:00

Can you fit all of you into this small a space?

All decorated for Africa! She got lots of strange looks when people saw her hands.

Adam in his apartment with roommate Jacob.

Fall leaves.

2007-11-18T17:15:00.000-08:00

Stephanie stayed in Oregon for a few days after our trip to Africa to enjoy the beautiful Oregon fall.

more pictures of Africa

2007-11-12T18:31:00.000-08:00

While traveling to Africa in October we saw the sun rise in London and set in Liberia!! We didn't even know we would be traveling through Liberia till we checked in in London! Go figure. This sunset is our last in Sierra Leone as we got off the ferry that took us across the bay to the airport. What a fitting end to an incredible time.
Life next to the church where we did most of our ministry. This was right outside the door, we looked into the neighbors yard, or should I say life. Most things take place around the water. It is also a pulic water source, so many came by regulary to fill jugs with water. We saw children bathed, dishes and clothing washed, puppies playing, and always, kids being kids. It was fun to engage them, usually the camera coming out of a pocket was enough to draw them to us.
These four boys lived near our hotel. Not surprising they loved having their pictures taken, almost to much. They would be goofy just to get our attention.
Construction at the hotel. So does this look up to code?

Sierra Leone 07

2007-11-02T11:27:00.001-07:00

Stephanie and I went to Sierra Leone, Africa with a team of 9. What an incredible time we had. This was a return trip for me and a first for Stephanie. We went to support and encourage the local church. While there we ministered to one of the outlying village churches. We did 6 mini services and handed out worm medicine to over 400 people, mostly children, all in one day. Many were prayed for and many received Christ that day. We then moved into Freetown and held a three day pastors conference taught by the three pastors who we traveled with. During the day we where able to fellowship, pray with, and encourage many of those attending. Nightly services where held and attended by many. Stephanie danced a worship hula on Friday evening that was well received.

Saturday the five women on the team held a womans conference. The Lord wove together the theme of prayer and God's faithfulness. I believe we strongly encouraged the local woman as we ministered through our testimonies and dance. Barbara Schnake then taught the women how to use the Evangacube to reach out to their families, friends and neighbors. We had cubes for everyone, lovingly donated by Tom Doyle whom I had met while in Kona with YWAM. Thanks Tom.

The childrens rally on Saturday afternoon was amazing. We had over 170 kids packed into the church. Bible Stories, missionary stories, the Wordless book, songs, crafts, face painting and learning a hula were some of the highlights. Over 100 kids received the Lord or assurance that day. PTL.

The people of Sierra Leone are some of the friendliest, joyful folks I have ever met. They made us feel so welcomed, blessed and special. Not just the folks in the church, but at the hotel, in the market place, everywhere. People where willing to stop and talk and spend time with us. Yes, some wanted to sell us things or ask for money, but even when we said no, they stuck around to spend a little time with us. All had a ready smile and a friendly "How da body" greeting. We understood each other fairly well which made for easy conversations.

I'll post more pictures in the coming weeks as time permits. Please keep the people and the church of Sierra Leone in your prayers. They are the second poorest nation in the world, but hopeful for their future. In just the two years since my last visit I saw improvement in the sanitary conditions, though there is a long way to go. The resent election resulted in a positive outcome. Please pray the transition from the sitting president to the newly elected one will go smoothly.
Thanks for reading.

Amanda comes for a visit

2007-10-01T13:32:00.000-07:00

Amanda, on the right was our school leader in Kona, Hawaii for our DTS.
She is amazing in her ability to get people excited for what the Lord has
called them too.
Alexis, on the left, was one of our fellow students. She has such a heart
for the Lord. She lives right up the freeway from us outside of Portland with her
hubby of one year, Derick. (not sure how he spells his name)
It was fun to get together with them an reminisce about our time together, share what the Lord has done in this last year, and look excitedly at the future. God
has great plans for all of us. We need to be bold and walk them out.

Family vacation

2007-08-07T14:45:00.001-07:00

The Lava tubes in Central Oregon.

Adam and Eli hiking along the Deschutes River.

The beautiful Deschutes River in Central Oregon.
We also hiked at Smith Rock State park one day. Very dry and hot, yet beautiful in its own way.

Steph comes for a visit.

2007-08-07T14:30:00.000-07:00

We had a great time with Stephanie in July. She, of course, was freezing a good part of the time. Went to the beach, shot off fireworks for the 4th, went for lots of walks and just hung out. It was so good to have her home.

2007-07-14T09:51:00.001-07:00

Adam is graduated!

2007-06-11T15:21:00.000-07:00

Adam has done it. Yeah!
After 12 years he is graduating,
ok, 13 if you count kindergarten.

He has been accepted at
Oregon Culinary Institute
in Portland Oregon.

We are proud of Adam and his
accomplishments and can't wait to see
where the Lord takes him over the next
few years.

Please keep Adam in your prayers as he begins
this next exciting phase of his life.

ah, the sweet sights and sounds of spring

2007-05-18T11:37:00.000-07:00

Happy Spring everyone. I love the changing seasons. It always brings new life, new sounds, new smells. The feel of dirt on my hands, the sun on my face. The boys, young and old, playing street ball. What could be finer. Come, enjoy, let's have a real old fashion visit,complete with lemonade. Hope to see you all soon.

The green lady!!!!

2007-04-09T22:58:00.000-07:00

Adam had a great time at his high school cooking competition in Portland. They took 7th overall and 1st for overall appearance of the food. He cooked the main dish and veggies. Salmon and asparagas.
What happens in Seattle stays in Seattle.
Adam and Eli at the Nuggets/Sonics game. We had a great time.

Adam Turns 18

2007-02-19T13:31:00.000-08:00

Last year Kona, this year Philomath
Adam and Ian: look out world
Doing what he loves

When did Feb. get here?

2007-01-31T10:50:00.000-08:00

Eli and Sam at Woodpecker Loop trail.
So, I've been reading a friends blog lately who writes "of important things", as his daughter says. Well, if you're expecting that here, don't!!! I write of trivial things, that may matter only to me yet I choose to share them with you at times.
Today we have a friend from Ohio visiting who is originally from Swaziland, Africa. He and Eli are good friends and enjoy the times they have together. Yesterday we went on a hike at Woodpecker Loop Trail in the William Findley wildlife refuge. It was a beautiful day to be out in the woods. Eli is playing basketball for the first time this year and enjoying it. He is very athletic so is picking it up quickly. I think he likes the fact that he can score regularly. In football he was on the defensive team and over the size limit of the league to be a ball carrier so he couldn't run with the ball. He did get a safety though. Go Braves.

Stephanie is happily living in Hawaii these days. Still volunteering as a missionary with YWAM at the base in Honolulu. She has begun hula lessons and had her first performance this last Sunday. They dance to worship music and perform as a ministry for free.

Adam is turning 18 in Feb. When the heck did that happen. He is looking forward to his adulthood. So are we! He is becoming a great chef. He is part of a competative cooking team and has his first competition the 24 of Feb. We have been the lucky taste testers-yum yum. He is in charge of the main dish for the team. All I can say about his recipe is it involves salmon and cashews and artichokes and other yummy things-hey, I can't give away all his secrets.

Today is Feb. 10, I kind of got distracted while writing. Life, it does go on....

Bob's business if doing well and he is still enjoying the work. Physically it gets hard for him sometimes and I feel badly for him, but can't do much to help. Adam is working with him more and more. Not sure if he can employ him full time this summer. If not, Adam will have to get a job elsewhere. They make a great team. Adam even has his first regular customer who calls for him, not Bob!

I started a new job. I work part time from home for a dot com business. I do not do to much computer work yet, mostly phone calling and verifying information. I love all the people I get to "meet". Eli and I are still homeschooling together and having a good year. We are also part of a co-op that meets once a week. I teach Science to 5-7 graders, help in Latin with 2-7 grade and occasionally jump in with the little guys and have some fun, 5-6 year olds. I love teaching and will miss it when it comes to an end. Till next time..

The picture is of Eli and Sam out at Woodpecker Loop trail.

New Years Snow, well almost.....

2007-01-13T18:30:00.000-08:00

Life moves on and we need to let it.
We have been no more busy than normal.
So I can't and won't use that as an excuse for not updating this thing in so very long.
God has shown Himself time and again to be faithful to me and the family. And we are thankful for that.
We had Stephanie home for 3 weeks at Christmas and enjoyed every minute.
My cousin and her family moved to the northwest this summer and we spent Thanksgiving together as well as several days over the Christmas break. This is the first time in almost 26 years that we have had family with us at Christmas. Even Stephanie has not been home for Christmas since 2003.
I hope this new year brings you many blessings and adventures. We are looking forward to what the Lord has in store for the Holton family.

Eli turns 12 !!!!

2006-11-06T20:35:00.000-08:00

Eli hoping to get some candy and giving away his stuffed animals on our last day in Guatemala to two of his favorite friends.

Finally, an update

2006-11-04T10:10:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I did not intend for over two months to go by between entries. To all you faithful ones who have checked in, thank you and I am sorry. I ran into a friend of ours at the grocery store last week and he asked if we still intended to keep up our blog and was it a good way for friends and family to stay informed. I had to be honest with him and say it is a great way to stay intouch and informed IF you actually put stuff on it. Otherwise it can just be a point of frustration, which I never want it to be for anyone.
Since it's been awhile I will try to keep this brief. Stephanie is settled in in Honolulu, not Kona. She is on Base Staff with YWAM. Which means she is in a missionary position at the school. Heads up; she may be sending out letters soon. If you'd like to be on her mailing list let us know and we will add you to it. She has had some great adventures with the Lord these last couple of years and lots of growth and maturity in her walk with Him.
Adam is a senior. He is attending Philomath High school in the mornings and Linn Benton Community College two afternoons a week. He is as busy and social as always. He is going into Culinary Arts, so we have been looking at schools around the state. If you've never had any of his cooking, you're missing out. He and his dad will be atttending a Christian Music Summit next week along with 10 others from our church. Adam plays guitar like his dad.
Eli will be twelve next week!!!! When in the world did that happen. He just finished a great season of football. He is a sixth grader. We are homeschooling him and loving it. We saw so much growth in Eli while we where in Kona and Guatemala. He has such a heart for prayer and other cultures. He fit right in. He and I are taking a Spanish class together to try and keep up with what we picked up in Central America.
I think I'll save news on Bob and I till next time. thanks for sticking with this till the end.

Spending some time with Steph before......

2006-08-31T23:37:00.000-07:00

As some of you know Stephanie is moving to Hawaii very soon. I am going to miss her dearly so have been spending as much time with her as possible. This week we did a couple mother/daughter dates. We had a delightful tea in downtown Corvallis and tonight we went to an Oregon State football game. Beavers rocked the staduim.

California Dreamin'

2006-08-08T22:01:00.000-07:00

Ok, so while Eli and I were in Ohio boating and sunning and swimming and just plain having a good old time I started feeling a little guilty thinking about the guys back home. Well, I need not have bothered. The big boys where off having a grand old time of their own. Bob and Adam headed down to California on an eight day road trip. Big Sur, Monetery, Venice Beach, Lake Shasta.......They were home for two days then headed off again for five days to Creation Fest in George Washington. This is a Christian festival with hours and hours of music and lots and lots of people. They had a blast in both places.
We are all back to work now. Bob full time. Adam and I part time. Steph was working full time but is not feeling well so she is home resting, getting strong and healthy and helping out with Eli. Eli has started football camp this week and loving it. He is all about football.
Hope you all are enjoying your summer. School starts way to soon!!!!

Playing at the lake.....

2006-07-24T07:01:00.000-07:00

Our time here in Ohio has come to an end way to fast. It has been such a joy and such a blessing to spend so much time with famiy. Eli and I will have lots of great memories and stories to share. To all of you who made this time so special,a great big thank you goes out to you, and to my family back in Oregon, we're coming home.

Sailing on Lake Erie

2006-07-24T06:52:00.000-07:00

We enjoyed a beautiful afternoon out on the lake. Eli was a quick study in learning how to man the helm!
My sister and her son Mikey, both experienced sailors.

The Girls

2006-07-18T07:41:00.000-07:00

Barb & her sisters: Margo, Carol and Donna.

Eli and Barb enjoying Ohio

2006-07-17T19:47:00.000-07:00

Captain Jack in Cleveland?

Checking out the tall ships. They were something to see.

Relaxing in Aunt Margo's pool.

Serving the Lord and having some fun!

2006-06-25T23:30:00.000-07:00

Banana Man, the kids loved him at VBS

VBS

2006-06-24T23:23:00.000-07:00

Ahoy, welcome to Son Treasure Island. The kids learned that God loves us and sent his only son, Jesus, to us. The greatest treasure of all.

Summer time in Oregon

2006-06-24T22:53:00.000-07:00

Yummy Icecream

Desperate to do a few laps?

Home at last......

2006-06-10T16:54:00.000-07:00

This is probably the hardest post to write. How do I "end" this incredible story. This great epic we have been blessed to be a part of. We are back home and settling in. Life is good and life is weird. Thankfully God is great all the time and everywhere. We believe it is God's good pleasure to manifest His glory through those who trust in Him and his power. We saw so much of that in Kona and Guatemala. God taugth us to draw nearer to him, to choose to know him more on a daily basis, to understand a little of his character and nature just so we would want to know him more. I love how God shows us, or at least me, little glimpses of himself, just enough to keep me seeking him, desiring him. No, it is not a game he plays, he just knows me and desires to draw me to him in a way that is pleasing to him and me! Yes, God loves me so much that he does things that please me! little ole' me. How great is that. Psalm 37:4 says: "Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart." I want to delight in Him more and more as I see Him delighting in me. Not because he will do stuff or give me stuff, but because He loves me and I want to delight and please Him. In this we start becoming who we have been designed to be. The "becoming" is what he desires and in so becoming we begin doing. Then in the doing we become more. How awesome is that? Sorry if you aren't tracking, I am really trying not to ramble, but hey, I did say at the beginning this was the hardest post to write. Think I'll stop for now and say, I realize that this great epic will not end till I am in the presence of my Lord and Savior. And what a great story ending that will be. Thanks for listening.

Update

2006-05-09T15:00:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone, sorry no pictures this time just an update. We are leaving Panabaj(the area in Guatemala we have been in) and moving to Antigua. We will be there till the 19 and then on to Guateamala City and then back to Hawaii on the 21. Please keep us in your prayers as we pack up and move about. Saying goodbye to the many friends we have made will be hard. The children in the neihgborhood, the cook Vilma, the twin brothers Eddy and Daniel who have been like angels to us. So many to name. God has blessed us so much while we have been here. From opportunities to share the gospel, times to just play with the kids, holding VBS´{s, teaching English classes, visiting schools and churches, shifting dirt, shifting dirt and oh yeah, shifting dirt!!!! Building here requires so much work that we take for granted. To make cement we pick out the big rocks, shift the rest into large and small chunks and then remix it all in different proportions. Crazy! We had so much fun even with all the work. It was a team effort to do the smallest things. We would fall into bed exhausted at the end of the day.
The next several days we hope to do some childrens ministry at the local orphanage in Antigua and I am hoping to visit a place called the Dreamer Center that is at the old dump. It has a project going on call the God's Child Project. I met a lady in the Dallas airport headed there and we shared infomation. It should be a real eye opener. Please pray for God to make opportunities for us.
Adios friends.

Just because......

2006-04-25T13:14:00.000-07:00

The kids went into Antigua with some of the team members and had a fun sightseeing day. This was when Bob was going through the kidney stone incident so he and I did not go. The local boys challenged our guys to a basketball game. Not sure who won but they all had a good time.

Playing with the kids

2006-04-25T13:00:00.000-07:00

The first two pictures are kids in the 'hood. Little Sandra loves playing with the boys and went squirrel hunting with them. Then her brothers poised her with the 3 DEAD squirrrels-she loved it. The pictures of Adam and Eli each holding a boy was taken at the large refugee camp during one of our VBS days there. Please pray for the locals as the rainy season is just beginning again and they still have much fear. Last night and the night before we had hard rain and one little slide up the road from us. All is well in our area.

Ministry

2006-04-22T15:07:00.000-07:00

These pictures show some of the ministry we are doing here. The girls' hula is always well received. The boys' Hauka usually gets a few laughs, though it is not meant to. The Hauka is a Warrior dance that is calling down the power of God before going to battle. It just looks a little odd. Both the boys participate in dramas which the people seem to enjoy. We have ministered in churches, schools, two refugee camps and in our neighborhood. It is such a blessing to us when we reach out and do the things the Lord asks of us. We pray the people here are blessed and drawn to the Lord as we minister to them in the various ways he has gifted us. Please be praying for the people of Guatemala to get beyond religion and receive the Lord.

Easter week in San Pedro Guatemala

2006-04-22T14:59:00.000-07:00

Stephanie in SanPedro Guatemala

2006-04-22T14:52:00.000-07:00

2006-04-21T14:25:00.000-07:00

in Guatemala

2006-04-01T08:48:00.000-08:00

Hola, we are doing great. After Bob suffering from kidney stones for the first five days, things are now rolling along. Building block homes at the refugee camp and working with kids. We also have been just spenidng time at two diffrent camps hanging out with the kids and adults. Playing ball, doing bead work, nothing like they do though, teaching a little english, learning a little spanish and getting to know them. WE really desire to develope relationships as we will be here for a couple of months. Please pray we will stay strong in our health and spiritually. The team has suffered minor health issues but is doing well. The food is great. THe people are lovely and very freindly. the camp we are staying at was minorly effected by a small mud slide so we are helping them dig out. We all have beds and moslty hot showers. PTL. I will try to put some pictures on here next week. Adios.

Look Out Guatemala Here We Come!

2006-03-22T10:18:00.000-08:00

This was taken at the boys graduation. They had an amazing time here in Kona.

Surfing Fun

2006-03-20T20:50:00.000-08:00

Adam Enjoying Life in Hawaii. He learned to surf with his buddy Sam,from Switzerland, Andrew, from New Zealand, and Josh from the good ol' USA.. He hopes to keep it up back in Oregon.

An Angel Among Us

2006-03-19T11:34:00.000-08:00

A visit from Emily

2006-03-15T08:53:00.000-08:00

We had a great time with Emily here in Kona. Adam and his buddies took her surfing, and yep, she got up and rode a short distance. She was fun to have around , a breath of fresh air for all of us.

Guatemala 2006 Team Picture

2006-03-12T15:49:00.000-08:00

This is our team going to Guatemala March 22, 2006 thru May 21, 2006
In the lower left are Hugo and Carmen Rivas and their son Samuel, they are the team leaders. Hugo is from Chile and Carmen is from El Salvador. We are so excited to have them as our leaders and look forward to getting to know them, really know them, in Guatemala. Those of you who have been on a mission trip or any trip really with a group of people, know what I mean! The whole team is looking forward to what the Lord has in store for us. With so many kids this should be a grand adventure. I have learned one of the most important phrases to know in Spanish: "Adonde Esta El Bano?"

Multimedia Exclusive: Rebuilding Panabaj - Top Stories

2006-03-02T17:32:00.000-08:00

Multimedia Exclusive: Rebuilding Panabaj - Top Stories

Adam turns 17 in Kona!

2006-02-22T09:17:00.000-08:00

Adam had a fun day. The family went to Hard Rock Cafe for dinner and then Adam had a bunch of friends over to the apartment-no surprise there. Can't believe he is one year away from 18!

2006-02-10T16:53:00.000-08:00

Bob-o thought I should put a picture of the turtle since I mentioned swimming with it. This is actually a distant cousin of the one I swam with, though they are hard to tell apart!

Barb and Eli

2006-02-05T20:52:00.000-08:00

2006-02-05T20:34:00.000-08:00

Guess I should put some text with all these pictures. It is not all fun and games here but we do enjoy our down time, what little we have. Adam is learning to surf and Eli is the snorkeling expert. He and I have been several times together and have seen every kind of fish imaginable (well not every kind, but lots) and sea turtles. Today I got to swim right along with one for about 3-4 minutes it was so cool. Classes have been so good and so challenging in many ways. Lots to take in and process every day. Do I fully understand the depth of his love for me? Do I want to be change in my thinking abut the sacred and the secular? Why is not every thing sacred? Why did God create this material world for us to live in and have dominion over? How do I do that in a way that is honoring to Him and a blessing to others? Lots and lots to think and pray about.
We are doing well and await the arrival of Stephanie in the next week or so. She is currently in Japan after having been in India for two months. Can't wait to hear all her stories. Till next time,the adventure continues.

Eli at Hupuna Beach

2006-02-05T20:32:00.000-08:00

Loren and Darlene Cunningham,Founders of YWAM

2006-02-05T20:30:00.000-08:00

Adam hangin' with some buds

2006-02-05T20:28:00.000-08:00

Here we are on campus the first week.

2006-02-05T20:24:00.000-08:00

Aloha from Kona

2006-01-03T22:42:00.000-08:00

Wow. What a change of scenery from Oregon. Palm trees, the beautiful ocean and the plumaria
trees right outside our door. Oh and the Mango tree that is dropping fresh mango's daily. Wonderful sights, smells and tastes.
School has taken off running. We had most of Sunday free after arriving on Thursday tired and glad to be here. Friday and Saturday were both packed with meetings and settling in.
The people here are so wonderful. Bob and I both feel right at home. This is truely a gift from God for us to be here with the boys. We are all reading Lorern Cunninghams' book "Is that really You God?" It's a great introduction to YWAM history and gives you a feel for the heart of YWAM.
Bob and Adam have already led a worship session this morning. It was fun to see them togehter with the palm trees and ocean as a back drop. Yeah, our class room has the best view on campus. It's outdoors under a large tent with open sides and sits on this little rise that affords us a spectactular view. I'm hoping after a couple of weeks I will be able to concentrat better! We will try to get a picture that does it justice.
Well it's been a long few days and I'm tired, so till next time, goodnight to all.

Let the adventure begin!

2005-12-26T15:48:00.000-08:00

We are ready to leave on a great adventure with the Lord.
Bob and I and the boys are heading to University of the Nation at Kona, Hawaii.
This is a Youth with a Mission school (YWAM).
We will be in school for about 12 weeks then off on a mission trip for another 12 weeks.
The boys will have their own classes. We will live on campus in a small apartment.
Meals are cafeteria style.
The school is about a ten minute walk from the beach. Adam is looking forward to learning how to surf from a "hot" surfer girl. His words, not mine!
Please keep us in your prayers.
Stephanie is currently in India, also with YWAM.
She is in Delhi working with youth.