I am trying to sleep, but I keep hearing this noise that won't stop. I finally pull myself out of my subconscious...it is the sound of the drums and chanting...it is 12 something am. The ceremonies have begun and we sense the spiritual battle that rages.

Our family has been sick with the flu for about a week. It seems life has come to a screeching halt. Thankfully Jim has remained mostly healthy and able to care for us sick ones. I think we are near the end of it now though and I am thankful for that.

I keep thinking of several things that need prayer so I guess I will mention them here so you can pray with us.

• A family walking through some hard things relationally. That they will continue to turn to God and be willing to follow His leading.
• Two children (4 yrs and 1 month) that are living in an unsafe environment. For their protection and opportunity for us to check in on them.
• A girl starting a dating relationship. That she would not be distracted from her relationship with God and remain pure.
• The young girl we were helping to school that now went back to the High School. That she would not forget all that she has learned about God. And that she would apply His truth in the situations she faces.
• For the church body here, that we would be unified and continue to grow together in the Lord.
• During this ceremonial time that Satan's activities will be bound and eyes will be opened to the truth of God's word.

Thanks for your faithfulness in prayers. They are so needed.

Blogger isn't letting me post pictures right now so maybe next time.

times at Bacavi

Well, we are back at school again here. It seems like the kids are glad to get back into a routine again. I am enjoying it too. Melissa is teaching a writing class to Bryce and Tara 3 times a week. That is really helpful since writing is not my strong point. She has also offered her assistance 4 hours a week for whatever needs doing around the house here. I feel very blessed to have that commitment from her.

It seems that in the last few months, that the local people that come consistently to church here has dwindled...yet it seems the few core people here, are very committed to following God even through the difficulties they face. That is a real encouragement to us.

At the moment I am operating on little sleep as we have spent several hours walking beside a couple that is dealing with some very painful things right now. God is so good in the middle of this. She was ready to give up on their marriage and as we prayed, cried and laughed together, God has done a mighty work in both of their hearts. Although their hearts are broken and painful they want to focus on God and do things His way. What a praise! He can work in ways that seem impossible to our human minds. Please help us in praying for this family; the next days, weeks and months will not be easy for them.

Also, if you think of it please pray for protection over a small baby boy (about 1 month old) who is living in an unsafe environment . In one such situation there recently, the baby's Aunt happened to stop in and was able to protect him, but what goes on when he's alone with his mother and/or her friends?

Thank you so much for all you do.

Here are some recent pics.

The guys using teamwork to get the driveway shoveled.

Tara tubing.
Seth coming up after a toboggan run.
The Toews' came out to enjoy the sledding/skiing.Nathan and Russ have also found used skis, so we have had some times to ski out back. It's quite a workout when there is no lift. But we are enjoying it...even Jim I think.

This is one of the projects I finished recently. The wall hanging and painting the dining room with a gallon of mis-tint paint from Home Depot. This pic does not show quite the true color. but you get the idea. It really warms up the room.