Still Here

Tons happening--very little time for blogging and usually no internet service.
I'll recap some of what's been going on in this post and then I will try to add some more in the next few days. I intend to get back to posting at least once per week as was my original intention.

First, our church had a number of Christmas activities. The ladies had a luncheon event. The Travesía ministry had a meal and gave out gifts in the village. We had a Sunday School program and the kids did a great job. The children's ministry workers had a Christmas party for more than 70 kids and 30 adults.
Joy, Teddy and I made a trip to the States. We got to be with our family for the holidays and got ready for Lexi's wedding (which was beautiful). I hope to get a few pictures from the wedding on the site. We had a marvelous time with friends in the Orlando, FL area and from around the country. We were able to visit supporting churches in Florida while we were there. Friends even took us to Disney's Animal Kingdom. An awesome time!
Our dear friend Pastor Loyal Carlson had heart by-pass surgery and had a rough time of recovery. We got to spend time with him. Pray that he will continue to recover. When he was well enough, Pastor Carlson took Teddy fishing. That was a great treat.
Back in Ecuador, the church went through a roller-coaster of emotions and had to pull together to minister to one-another. Zonia Marriott when to the presence of the Lord. We have asked prayer for Zonia many times. We are grateful for her testimony of joy and patience. That same week, Zonia's daughter Melanea gave birth to a son named Aaron. Luis and Melanea are very special to us. The church held a funeral with praise and preaching, and then helped welcome Aaron.
We returned to Manta on January 16. There are lots of things going on. We'll be keeping you posted. Later this week I want to get a few pictures posted as well.