Christmas in Hutchinson with our Family

Don and I came to Hutchinson, Kansas, on December 3rd. We will return to Texas after the first of the year. All of Don's daughters and daughter-in-law were here at our house. We had seven beds - 9 adults staying here in our new home. Ann's sons were along, and Karen's children who live in Hutchinson spent time here with us. We had 14for Christmas dinner the day after Christmas. Our company started coming on Wed. the 23, and Ann and her boys left today, Tuesday, the 29th. Also on the 28th my cousin and his wife flew in on their way home to Iowa, so until the weather clears so they can fly on to Iowa, they will be staying with us. We are so thankful that we have room to keep everyone here now.

Afternoon in Nuevo Progreso, Mexico

Saturday we once again went over to Mexico. We bouht a big bag of chicken hind quarters to give to the family we visit, but as we drove up we found them butchering a goat. So we decided they didn't need chicken just then, so we kept it for the 2nd place we visit that has about 20 moms that come with about 40 kids. So each of the moms got a leg/thigh, and they were very happy. I guess that would provide a little flavor for the pot of beans. They are always so grateful for whatever we take to them. We had about 15 pairs of flip/flops for the kids, lots of cereal and chocolate animal crackers. When we go again in 2 weeks we would like to have one group for the children and another for the women.

Heritage Day at Yoder

Late in August we attended Heritage Day in Yoder. There were buggy races, a parade, pony pulls, tractor pulls, etc. It was a fun day.

June's Children

June and her children spent most of the week here in Hutchinson at her folk's home. I spent time working with Evan on some school work. All five children LOVE to play on our adjustable bed. In the line-up are Maggie, Molly, Evan, Eli, and Micah.
Evan was workining toward winning a prize with his school work. On the last day he got to take home the "killer whale". It's always a joy to be able to teach children.

7th Anniversary

Today Don and I left about 11:30 to go to Kanopolis Reservoir to spend some time in the water. Since it was close to lunch time we decided Little River was about the only place we were going to find food. The only place we found was a bar and grill, but it looked totally like a bar from the outside. Well, we went in and were pleasantly surprised. The food was delicious. It looked like it was The place to be at noon in Little River. Fat Boyz definitely has good food.
We spent a couple of hours in the water and got a little more sunburned.
This morning Don surprised me with a beautiful bouquet of red roses. Thanks, Don.
We had a good day - a change of pace. (But now, Don is back in the basement painting the walls of our new bathroom). So much to get done before we return to Texas soon.

Seventh Anniversary

Don and I will celebrate our 7th wedding anniversary on August 11th. We thank God for these years together, and our privilege of serving our Lord at RGBI these past many years. We plan to return to RGBI the last weekend of August to resume our ministry there. We have purchased a home in Hutchinson, KS, and have spent the last 5months here. We plan for this to be our place of eventual retirement.

Camping at Clinton Lake

Don and I had the privilege of camping with Roger and Mary's family for a couple of days. Three of their children and 14 of their grandchildren were along. We had a good time with all of the kids.

North Pole at Colorado Springs

Today we went to the North Pole near Pike's Peak. We rode the tram, the train, and ferris wheel. We ate lunch at the Mason Jar and visited crowded Manitou Springs. We headed for home about 3:00 p.m. not knowing where we would stay for the night. We decided to stay in LaMar, Colorado. Had somewhat of a problem finding a room, but did finally find one. Will head home tomorrow.

Our Experience with Raft Masters

Yes, Don and I got brave today and went on a white water rafting trip. Since we were not able to take a camera, we have no pictures to show of us in the raft. Of course they took some pictures, and we bought one to prove we actually did this. The only pictures I have are of my scraped, bruised, swollen elbow. We chose a rather calm trip, but it took us down Pokemon Falls on the Arkansas River near Canon City. I saw these large rocks jutting up out of the water on my side of the raft. We hit the falls sideways and hit the rock. Don, who was sitting on the side opposite of me, was thrown over against me. I almost fell over the side, but instead just hit my elbow on the rock. All in all it was a good trip - this satisfied my wanting to "sometime" take a white water rafting trip. In earlier years I could not get anyone to go with me. So thanks Don for suggesting we go on this trip. It was delightful.

This and That around LaVeta, CO

Thursday we just stayed around LaVeta. He drove on a path to high meadows and saw a brown bear. My only picture is of him disappearing into the dense trees.
The area was gorgeous as usual.

Visit to Summitville - afternoon drive from Monte Vista, CO

Don and I visited Darrel and Ann Booker at their lovely home in Monte Vista. After lunch we drove to Summitville, an old mining camp. What a beautiful drive.

Cool in Colorado

Don and I arrived in Colorado on Saturday. Sunday we arrived at Jarrott's cabin near LaVeta. The weather has been beautiful. We have been to Cuchara, Bear Lake, Blue Lake, Taos, N.M. and today to Monte Vista with a beautiful drive to Summitville, high in the mountains. Today we saw snow, yesterday the hail was piled along the highway looking like snow. We are not suffering from the heat like those of you in Kansas and Texas.