Coupuccino

Bill's E-book Picks

2012-01-28T16:20:00.010-05:00

Here are my recommendations of some good books that I have read on my Kindle over the past six months:

Bible: ESV Study Bible

Devotional: The Applause of Heaven by Max Lucado

Sports: Coming Back Stronger by Drew Brees

Ministry: Leaders Who Last by Dave Kraft

The Land Between: Finding God in Difficult Transitions by Jeff Manion

Fiction: The Circle Trilogy by Ted Dekker

Non-Fiction: Decision Points by George W. Bush

Personal: The Resolution for Men by Stephen Kendrick

The Weaver

2012-01-24T18:34:00.004-05:00

My life is but a weaving, between my God and me,
I do not choose the colors, He worketh steadily,
Oftimes He weaveth sorrow, and I in foolish pride,
Forget He sees the upper, and I the underside.
Not till the loom is silent, and shuttles cease to fly,
Will God unroll the canvas and explain the reason why.
The dark threads are a needful in the skillful Weaver's hand,
As the threads of gold and silver in the pattern He has planned.

--ANONYMOUS

Recuperation

2012-01-14T12:49:00.000-05:00

Wow ... we are just overwhelmed with all the responses of prayer and encouragement in regards to Cristian needing surgery to repair his lung. We are rejoicing that we are able to give a good report that Cristian's surgery went very well, the holes are repaired and he is home two days earlier than the doctor first anticipated. We have no doubt the Lord has been answering as you've joined us in prayer. Thank you also for your prayers and encouragement for Tracy as she was able to spend the week at the hospital with Cristian, and for Bill and Ashley as they took care of things at home. Though it was a long week we have experienced the Lord's help and strength, and we are so appreciative of the encouragement that seemed to come just when we needed it.

This week Cristian will have his stitches removed and the doctor will do a follow-up exam and x-ray. We praise the Lord that Cristian is recuperating; he will need to adhere to the doctor's orders of no activity and complete rest for the next month. He will continue to experience pain during the recuperation process and beyond. Please also be praying for him as he will need some cooperation from his university professors in order to be able to make up the homework, projects and final exams he has missed and/or will miss over the next two weeks. Cristian was happy to sleep in his own bed last night and has asked us to let you all know how much he appreciates your faithful prayers. He expressed many times that he knew people were praying and that the Lord has been helping him.

Happy New Year 2012!

2012-01-01T20:07:00.000-05:00

The tradition here on New Year's Eve is to burn a "dummy" or efigy. Some choose a family member, cartoon character, or political figure. This year we chose to burn Yogi the Bear. Since we took into account the the youngest girls would probably not make it until midnight, we burned our "old year" a little earlier in the night. We enjoyed sparklers and burning Yogi. At midnight, we also burned the second one--Tigress from Kung Fu Panda at midnight, accompanied by overhead fireworks, and sharing New Year's greetings with the neighbors.

This digital slideshow generated with Smilebox

Ballet

2011-12-30T11:50:00.002-05:00

Both Elise and Joanna participated in their respective Christmas ballet performances. They both did an excellent job!

Merry Christmas from our family to yours!

2011-12-24T10:01:00.000-05:00

Personalize a free digital ecard

Christmas Candids

2011-12-23T07:56:00.000-05:00

Christmas Song Spotlight #4

2011-12-19T10:51:00.010-05:00

"O Holy Night"

In 1847, Placide Cappeau de Roquemaure was the commissionaire of wines in a small French town. Known more for his poetry than his church attendance, it probably shocked Placide when his parish priest asked the commissionaire to pen a poem for Christmas mass. Nevertheless, the poet was honored to share his talents with the church. Using the gospel of Luke as his guide, Cappeau imagined witnessing the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem. Thoughts of being present on the blessed night inspired him. By the time he arrived in Paris, "Cantique de Noel" had been completed. Moved by his own work, Cappeau decided that his "Cantique de Noel" was not just a poem, but a song in need of a master musician's hand. Not musically inclined himself, the poet turned to one of his friends, Adolphe Charles Adams, for help.

As a man of Jewish ancestry, for Adolphe the words of "Cantique de Noel" represented a day he didn't celebrate and a man he did not view as the son of God. Nevertheless, Adams quickly went to work, attempting to marry an original score to Cappeau's beautiful words. Adams' finished work pleased both poet and priest. The song was performed just three weeks later at a Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve. Initially, "Cantique de Noel" was wholeheartedly accepted by the church in France and the song quickly found its way into various Catholic Christmas services. But when Placide Cappeau walked away from the church and became a part of the socialist movement, and church leaders discovered that Adolphe Adams was a Jew, the song--which had quickly grown to be one of the most beloved Christmas songs in France--was suddenly and uniformly denounced by the church. The heads of the French Catholic church of the time deemed "Cantique de Noel" as unfit for church services because of its lack of musical taste and "total absence of the spirit of religion." Yet even as the church tried to bury the Christmas song, the French people continued to sing it, and a decade later a reclusive American writer brought it to a whole new audience halfway around the world.

Not only did this American writer--John Sullivan Dwight--feel that this wonderful Christmas song needed to be introduced to America, he saw something else in the song that moved him beyond the story of the birth of Christ. An ardent abolitionist, Dwight strongly identified with the lines of the third verse: "Truly he taught us to love one another; his law is love and his gospel is peace. Chains shall he break, for the slave is our brother; and in his name all oppression shall cease." The text supported Dwight's own view of slavery in the South. Published in his magazine, Dwight's English translation of "O Holy Night" quickly found favor in America, especially in the North during the Civil War.

Back in France, even though the song had been banned from the church for almost two decades, many commoners still sang "Cantique de Noel" at home. Legend has it that on Christmas Eve 1871, in the midst of fierce fighting between the armies of Germany and France, during the Franco-Prussian War, a French soldier suddenly jumped out of his muddy trench. Both sides stared at the seemingly crazed man. Boldly standing with no weapon in his hand or at his side, he lifted his eyes to the heavens and sang the beginning of "Cantique de Noel."

On Christmas Eve 1906, Reginald Fessenden--a 33-year-old university professor and former chief chemist for Thomas Edison--did something long thought impossible. Using a new type of generator, Fessenden spoke into a microphone and, for the first time in history, a man's voice was broadcast over the airwaves: "And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed," he began in a clear, strong voice, hoping he was reaching across the distances he supposed he would. Shocked radio operators on ships and astonished wireless owners at newspapers sat slack-jawed as their normal, coded impulses, heard over tiny speakers, were interrupted by a professor reading from the gospel of Luke. To the few who caught this broadcast, it must have seemed like a miracle--hearing a voice somehow transmitted to those far away. Some might have believed they were hearing the voice of an angel. Fessenden was probably unaware of the sensation he was causing on ships and in offices; he couldn't have known that men and women were rushing to their wireless units to catch this Christmas Eve miracle. After finishing his recitation of the birth of Christ, Fessenden picked up his violin and played "O Holy Night," the first song ever sent through the air via radio waves. When the carol ended, so did the broadcast--but not before music had found a new medium that would take it around the world.

Since that first rendition at a small Christmas mass in 1847, "O Holy Night" has been sung millions of times in churches in every corner of the world. And since the moment a handful of people first heard it played over the radio, the carol has gone on to become one of the entertainment industry's most recorded and played spiritual songs. This incredible work--requested by a forgotten parish priest, written by a poet who would later split from the church, given soaring music by a Jewish composer, and brought to Americans to serve as much as a tool to spotlight the sinful nature of slavery as tell the story of the birth of a Savior--has become one of the most beautiful, inspired pieces of music ever created.

Reprinted from "Stories Behind the Best-Loved Songs of Christmas"

Christmas Song Spotlight #3

2011-12-16T09:06:00.003-05:00

Silent Night

180 years ago the carol "Stille Nacht! Heilige Nacht" was heard for the first time in a village church in Oberndorf, Austria. The congregation at St. Nicholas Church listened as the voices of the assistant pastor, Joseph Mohr, and the choir director, Franz Xaver Gruber, rang through the church to the accompaniment of Mohr's guitar. On that Christmas Eve in 1818, a song was born that would wing its way into the hearts of people throughout the world and has been translated into hundreds of languages.

The German words for the original six stanzas of the carol we know as "Silent Night" were written by Joseph Mohr in 1816, when he was a young priest assigned to a pilgrimage church in Mariapfarr, Austria. His grandfather lived nearby, and it is easy to imagine that he could have come up with the words while walking thorough the countryside on a visit to his elderly relative. On December 24, 1818 Joseph Mohr journeyed to the home of musician-schoolteacher Franz Gruber who lived in an apartment over the schoolhouse in nearby Arnsdorf. He showed his friend the poem and asked him to add a melody and guitar accompaniment so that it could be sung at Midnight Mass. Later that evening, as the two men, backed by the choir, stood in front of the main altar in St. Nicholas Church and sang "Stille Nacht! Heilige Nacht!" for the first time, they could hardly imagine the impact their composition would have on the world. Karl Mauracher, a master organ builder and repairman from the Ziller Valley, traveled to Oberndorf to work on the organ, several times in subsequent years. While doing his work in St. Nicholas, he obtained a copy of the composition and took it home with him. Thus, the simple carol, began its journey around the world and is known as "The Song Heard 'Round The World".

Parade

2011-12-09T07:53:00.004-05:00

Yesterday Loja celebrated 463 years of independence. The city was founded in 1548 by the Spanish conquistador, Alonso de Mercadillo. To commemorate this event, each local school participates in a parade with its respective marching band. Laura dressed in her formal uniform (white gloves and all) and marched with her school band. It was a fun morning as we watched the different school bands march by.

Happy Birthday Joanna!

2011-12-08T19:11:00.003-05:00

Happy 4th Birthday to our precious Joanna. You are getting so big and we love you very much! :)

Christmas Song Spotlight #2

2011-12-06T20:20:00.015-05:00

“O Come, O Come, Emmanuel" is probably the oldest Christmas carol still sung today. This popular hymn dates back to the ninth century and the writer is unknown. He was probably a monk or priest who penned the words before 800 A.D. and was also a scholar with a rich knowledge of both the Old and New Testaments.

In its original form, “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” was known as a song of the "Great Antiphons" or “Great O's." The Latin text, framed in the original seven different verses, represented the different biblical views of the Messiah. One verse per day was sung or chanted during the last seven days before Christmas.

The song owes its worldwide acceptance to a man named John Mason Neale. The tune that went with Neale's translation had been used for some years in Latin text versions of the song. “Veni Emmanuel” was a fifteenth century processional that originated in a community of French Franciscan nuns living in Lisbon, Portugal. Neale's translation of the lyrics coupled with “Veni Emmanuel” was first published in the 1850s in England. Within twenty-five years, Neale's work, later cut to five verses and called “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” grew in popularity throughout Europe and America.

The first verse of the song is taken from Isaiah 7:14 and Matthew 1:23. It introduces Emmanuel-“God with us”-and Israel as a symbol for the Christian world, held captive on a dark and sinful Earth. Isaiah 11 serves as the theme for the verse that begins “O come, thou rod of Jesse, free" (in some translations this is called the "Branch of Jesse"). In it the rod of Jesse represents Christ, who is the only one who can defeat Satan and bring eternal life to all those who follow him.

“O come, O Dayspring, come and cheer” presents the image of the morning star, a concept that can be traced back to Malachi 4:2. In this verse, the song states that the coming Savior will bring justice, honesty, and truth. He will enlighten and cast out darkness as "The sun of righteousness will rise with healing in His wings.”

The lyrics then turn to "O come, thou key of David," a reference to Isaiah 22:22. The words in this verse explain that the newborn King holds the key to the heavenly kingdom and there is no way to get into the kingdom but through Him.

The verse that begins “O come, O come, Adonai” (in some texts this reads “O come, thou wisdom from on high”) centers on the source of true wisdom. This comes only from God through his Son. Through the Savior, this wisdom can reach around the world and bring peace and understanding to all men. Thus, Christ's teachings and examples fulfilled all Old Testament prophesies. In this simple but brilliant song, the echoed voices of clerics from the past gently urge today’s world to accept and worship the King who fulfills God's greatest promise to his children.

Excerpted from Stories Behind the Best-Loved Songs of Christmas by Ace Collins, a 2001 publication distributed by Zondervan.

Christmas Song Spotlight #1

2011-12-04T16:34:00.008-05:00

One of my favorite Christmas memories is caroling--outdoors with the frost nipping at your nose or indoors at a local nursing home seeing the faces of the elderly light up. This Christmas season we will post some of the well-known Christmas songs and give a background of who wrote them and why they were written.

Joy to the World

Isaac Watts (1674-1748), known as the "Father of English Hymnology" wrote the lyrics in 1719 based on Psalm 98. The music was adapted and arranged by Lowell Mason in 1839 from an older melody believed to have originated from Handel. As of the late 20th century, "Joy to the World" was the most-published Christmas hymn in North America.

Joy to the world! the Lord is come;
Let earth receive her King;
Let every heart prepare him room,
And heaven and nature sing,
And heaven and nature sing,
And heaven, and heaven, and nature sing.

Joy to the world! the Saviour reigns;
Let men their songs employ;
While fields and floods, rocks, hills, and plains
Repeat the sounding joy,
Repeat the sounding joy,
Repeat, repeat the sounding joy.

No more let sins and sorrows grow,
Nor thorns infest the ground;
He comes to make His blessings flow
Far as the curse is found,
Far as the curse is found,
Far as, far as, the curse is found.

He rules the world with truth and grace,
And makes the nations prove
The glories of His righteousness,
And wonders of His love,
And wonders of His love,
And wonders, wonders, of His love.

Christmas 2011 Playlist

2011-11-29T21:56:00.007-05:00

The First Noel by David Archuleta
While You Were Sleeping by Casting Crowns
Silent Night by Josh Groban
Joy To The World by Casting Crowns
O Come All Ye Faithful by Third Day

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In the Newspaper

2011-11-24T22:01:00.004-05:00

A couple of weeks ago, we attended a banquet to welcome Elise's new ballet teacher. The newspaper photographer came around to take pictures and our picture made it in one of the local newspapers. We are now famous-- HA HA!

Click here to see slide show from the newspaper La Hora : Loja

With Thankful Hearts

2011-11-23T21:33:00.001-05:00

With thankful hearts we praise the King of Kings
The mighty God who fills our lives with wonderful things!

Our family moved to Loja more than a year ago,
Apart from our coworkers we didn’t know a single soul
By His grace we’ve seen some wonderful friendships start,
We pray we can one day see them invite Christ into their heart.
Our prayer is that we can study the Bible with them,
That they will put their faith and trust in Christ, and only Him.
We need to be patient, trust God, though the work is slow,
Remembering that we sow the seed and God’s Word will grow.

Laura and Elise (and hopefully soon Joanna, too)
Have been blessed to start studying at a national school,
They’ll soon be speaking Spanish far better than mom and dad,
And to see them with so many new friends makes our hearts glad!

God surprised Cristian this semester in an unexpected way,
An academic scholarship, leaving very little to pay!
We’ve seen the Lord bless with a wonderful circle of friends,
University guys whose hunger seems never to end!
They visit here often, and we wonder what God has in store
As we’ve seen the Lord bring the world right through our front door!

Ashley praises the Lord for His help with college plans,
She’s yielded to God’s will; she’s put her future in His hands.
With a passion and talent for music and photography
She desires to be a blessing and use it all for His glory.

Our bookworm, Laura, is growing fast and getting so tall!
She’s outgoing and joyful and smart and she loves basketball!
Elise is graceful and lovely and stylish and funny!
She loves ballet and her outlook on life is sunny!
Joanna’s so cheerful, her laughter and smiles light the room
And she’s very excited, she’ll be four very soon!

For our blessings and joys and for many wonderful things
With thankful hearts we praise the King of Kings.

School Days

2011-11-13T07:51:00.002-05:00

This past week the Lord opened up the door for both Laura and Elise to attend a public school. In the public schools it is difficult to obtain a "cupo" or spot in a class, while your name goes on a waiting list. Both girls were able to enter the school because of students who moved or withdrew. We are thankful for this opportunity to meet new parents and teachers. The girls are very excited about their new schedule and making friends with their classmates.

Elise's class

Student body gathered together for the student council introduction

Count Your Blessings

2011-11-10T20:07:00.003-05:00

When upon life’s billows you are tempest-tossed,
When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost,
Count your many blessings, name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.
- Refrain:
  Count your blessings, name them one by one,
  Count your blessings, see what God hath done!
  Count your blessings, name them one by one,
  *Count your many blessings, see what God hath done.
  [*And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.]
Are you ever burdened with a load of care?
Does the cross seem heavy you are called to bear?
Count your many blessings, every doubt will fly,
And you will keep singing as the days go by.
When you look at others with their lands and gold,
Think that Christ has promised you His wealth untold;
Count your many blessings—wealth can never buy
Your reward in heaven, nor your home on high.
So, amid the conflict whether great or small,
Do not be discouraged, God is over all;
Count your many blessings, angels will attend,
Help and comfort give you to your journey’s end. (Lyrics by Johnson Oatman, Jr.)

N@tional P@rk

2011-11-07T20:39:00.005-05:00

We enjoyed a leisurely stroll through Podocarpus National Park. The scenery was breathtaking and our family had a fun time hiking the trail.

Tradition

2011-11-01T18:13:00.003-05:00

Tradition is abundant here this weekend for the celebration of the Day of the Dead. It is similar to a memorial day and many will visit the grave sites of departed loved ones. In the main squares, vendors have set up their stands selling colada morada (a purple drink) and guagas ("wah-wahs") de pan, or bread figurines.

The bread is shaped into figures and then decorated with faces. This dates back to an an old indigenous tradition of baking bread for departed loved ones and leaving it in the cemetery in hopes of sustaining their souls with food in the afterlife.

The thick, pasty drink is served either hot or cold. The ingredients for this concocted drink include: corn flour, herbs, cinnamon, sugar, apples, blackberries, pineapple, naranjilla, babaco, blueberries, and strawberries. We got our purple drink and bread to go!

Upside down

2011-10-31T11:54:00.004-05:00

(Pencil drawing courtesy of Ashley)

FYI: Ashley is taking a drawing class online and is learning how to draw on the right side of the brain. She drew this turtle upside down on the first try.

This poem appeared on my friend, Philip Brande's website:

The day is young

The week is younger

and even though you try and try again

push and push

talk, hoping to convince

pray and pray some more

some things are still set in motion

because the path was already being taken

before they came to you.

The best that can be done at this point is

to work to stall

what is coming to pass

with the fool-hearted hope

that change will occur

and turn to the direction

God desires.

Author “unknown”

Happy Birthday Ashley

2011-10-28T06:38:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday Ashley--The Big 1-7!!! We love you very much. :)

Come To the Well

2011-10-24T07:58:00.005-05:00

Casting Crowns recently released their new album, "Come to the Well" and the title song is "The Well". I was reminded of Jesus' encounter with the Samaritan woman at the well in John 4.

1. She was spiritually thirsty.

2. Jesus offered her "water" to drink to never thirst again.

3. She "drank" from the Well and told others about her experience.

♪ ♫ And all who thirst will thirst no more
And all who search will find what their souls long for
The world will try but it can never fill
So leave it all behind and come to the well. ♪ ♫

Ashley's photography

2011-10-17T11:36:00.004-05:00

Ashley has been learning about the ins and outs of photography this past year. She is currently doing an internship with her photography teacher online. Last week, she was able to teach a little bit during class time and explained her project. Click here to visit her updated blog that highlights her photography. In the right sidebar, vote for your favorite picture taken by Ashley.

Puppy Luv

Flower power

Guitar strings

Sisters

7-11 in the park

2011-10-04T17:59:00.002-05:00

Making a quick stop for chips, candy, and cola while enjoying a day in the park

Puppy Luv

2011-10-01T09:11:00.000-05:00

For her birthday Laura picked out an adorable yellow lab. Our co-worker told us that she saw this puppy in the pet store, so the next day we went down to see if she was still there. She was and we were able to negotiate the asking price as well. Laura named her puppy, Bindi Sue and she fits very well into the family. Abby, our other dog, is very glad to have a companion.

Joanna's 1st Day of Ballet Class

2011-09-22T18:16:00.000-05:00

Happy b-day L.J.

2011-09-17T07:13:00.003-05:00

¡Feliz Cumpleaños Laurita!
Happy 12th Birthday Laura Joy!
We love you very much and thank God for your life.

Jipiro Park

2011-09-16T19:05:00.004-05:00

One of our favorite things to do as a family is go to Parque Jipiro (Hee-pea-roh). There are paddle boats, horse back riding, playground equipment, and sports courts at the park. It was a very fun afternoon!

Acrostic by Laura

2011-09-15T08:59:00.000-05:00

Look at the bird
And how he goes and makes good,
Use of the garden that grows.
Rats and mice
Are not all that nice, to him they are pesky as crows.

Crows are birds that
Old and young, eat
Up the beetles gathered around the dung.
Please be like the bird and not the crow.
Ere is the time I must go.

10th Anniversary of 9/11

2011-09-11T08:46:00.007-05:00

Attack on America...United We Stand...We Will Never Forget....

During the September 11th attacks in 2001 we were living in Utah and working at Pioneer Bible Camp. I was driving up to camp, turned on the radio to listen to the news when the first plane crashed into the WTC. I called Tracy to turn the TV to watch what was unfolding. I worked at the camp for most of the day and when I got home saw all of the horrific events that transpired that day. We met with some friends and prayed for the victims and families involved. I will never forget the feeling of are there going to be more attacks. A week later, we traveled to Seattle to attend professional sporting events. The security in the airport and stadiums were unbelievable. 9/11 forever changed our history. As we reflect on that tragic day, we think of those 2,973 victims that perished and for their families and loved ones.We continue to pray for our nation and government. I am proud to be an American and God bless America!

8:46 a.m. Terrorists crash A.A. Flight # 11 into the north tower.

9:03 a.m. Terrorists crash United Flight # 175 into the south tower.

9:37 a.m.
Terrorists crash A.A. Flight # 77 into the Pentagon.

9:59 a.m. The south tower collapses.

10:03 a.m.
Hijacked United Flight # 93 crashes near Shanksville, PA.

10:28 a.m. The north tower collapses.

A Stick, A Sling, and Saliva

2011-09-07T16:02:00.010-05:00

1. A stick (Moses' rod in the presence of pharaoh)

2. A sling (In David's hand and a stone that took out the mighty giant, Goliath)

3. Saliva (Spit from Jesus' mouth mixed with mud that healed the blind man)

I am reading Max Lucado's book, "The Applause of Heaven" on my Kindle and I really enjoy his writing style and insights. Here is an excerpt from the book on Jesus' encounter with the blind man in John 9:

Or what about the blind man Jesus and the disciples discovered? The followers thought he was a great theological case study. "Why do you think he's blind?" one asked. "He must have sinned." "No, its his folks' fault." "Jesus, what do you think? Why is he blind?" "He's blind to show what God can do." The apostles knew what was coming; they had seen this look in Jesus' eyes before. They knew what he was going to do, but they didn't know how he was going to do it. "Lightning? Thunder? A shout? A clap of the hands?" They all watched. Jesus began to work his mouth a little. The onlookers stared. "What is he doing?" He moved his jaw as if he were chewing on something. Some of the people began to get restless. Jesus just chewed. His jaw rotated around until he had what he wanted. Spit. Ordinary saliva. If no one said it, somebody had to be thinking it: "Yuk!" Jesus spat on the ground, stuck his finger into the puddle, and stirred. Soon it was a mud pie, and he smeared some of the mud across the blind man's eyes. The same One who'd turned a stick into a scepter and a pebble into a missile now turned saliva and mud into a balm for the blind. Once again, the mundane became majestic. Once again the dull became divine, the humdrum holy. Once again God's power was seen not through the ability of the instrument, but through its availability. "Blessed are the meek," Jesus explained. Blessed are the available. Blessed are the conduits, the tunnels, the tools. Deliriously joyful are the ones who believe that if God has used sticks, rocks, and spit to do his will, then he can use us. We would do well to learn a lesson from the rod, the rock, and the saliva. They didn't complain. They didn't question God's wisdom. They didn't suggest an alternative plan. Perhaps the reason the Father has used so many inanimate objects for his mission is that they don't tell him how to do his job!

Max Lucado. The Applause of Heaven (The Bestseller Collection) (pp. 73-74). Kindle Edition.

Soles2Souls

2011-09-06T21:18:00.008-05:00

In our neighborhood there are many little shops like this one. These people have opened up a little business fixing shoes. This guy spends his day sewing, gluing, and polishing shoes. It reminded me of my "walk" and taking the Good News to others.

"How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching? And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, 'How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!'" Romans 10:14-15

Ask yourself these following questions: Am I walking in the Spirit daily? Where do my steps lead me? Are my feet prepared to carry the Gospel? What a challenge!

Back 2 School

2011-08-29T12:19:00.005-05:00

Today is the first day of school, YAY! Tracy has done a fantastic job in organizing and preparing all of the home school material for this year. The girls are excited and ready to get started. Joanna is a preschooler, Elise starting 2nd grade, Laura a 7th grader, and Ashley is tackling finishing up her last year of high school. Cris is waiting to see which classes he will be taking for his second year in the U. Pencils are sharpened, copies made, notebooks bought--Back 2 School 2011-2012!

Kittens

2011-08-28T17:15:00.002-05:00

Our cat, Cleo recently gave birth to four kittens. The girls have been having fun taking care of them. They are so cute!

Artwork

2011-08-24T13:43:00.001-05:00

Ashley "painted" a picture using Corel Painter X. Her first digital masterpiece turned out pretty cool.

Camp

2011-08-17T18:30:00.001-05:00

The girls had a great time at camp--made new friends, enjoyed playing games/activities, and learned more from the Word. Elise and L.J. were campers, Ashley was a counselor, and Tracy helped cook in the kitchen.

Random Pics

2011-08-07T14:18:00.002-05:00

Welcome Kindles

2011-07-20T19:41:00.003-05:00

Tim Challies writes on his blog, "Around the world some 120,000 new books are published each year. That adds up to ten thousand every month; over 300 each and every day. Americans buy over 4.5 million books every day, including many of these new titles. This adds up to over 1.5 billion books per year that are consumed within America. Yet even this totals only 35% of the books that are sold worldwide. While it might seem that television and the Internet are decreasing our love for reading, it is clear that books sell better today than at any other time in history."

I must admit that I have never really been a "book worm", but I am finding a growing appreciation for reading. The Kindle is very user friendly. I can search thousands of titles on Amazon (instead of jumping in my car and going to the Christian bookstore--which is impossible anyway) and with one click I can download a book to my Kindle in under a minute! I have been enjoying some leisurely reading and staying more in touch. We are so thankful for the Kindles that were given to us as gifts and we welcome them into our family.

Swim Lessons

2011-07-13T18:51:00.001-05:00

Elise is taking swim lessons this month and is doing a really great job. She has already made a couple of friends, one of which is going to be in her ballet class this fall. The only bad thing--Joanna is too young to take the class, but in a couple of years she to will learn how to swim!

2011-06-30T08:05:00.000-05:00

The Music Box

2011-06-28T09:11:00.002-05:00

Elise performed as a Spanish dancer in the Music Box. She did a great job and now has three performances to her resume.

Baker's Duo

2011-06-26T11:06:00.002-05:00

Both Elise and Joanna are great kitchen helpers. Elise is blossoming into quite the little baker and has added apple crisp, brownies, chocolate chip cookies, and muffins to her list of accomplishments.

Ashley's Senior Portraits

2011-06-25T22:53:00.000-05:00

Photos taken by Shawn Larsen
Layton, UT

Campin' Out

2011-06-21T11:15:00.006-05:00

Elise and Joanna have enjoyed camping out in the toy room for the past couple of nights. They prefer setting up the tent inside because they do not have to worry about bugs or rain. :)

A Psalm of Thanksgiving

2011-06-19T08:50:00.003-05:00

This personal psalm of thanksgiving is inspired from Psalm 136.

Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good,
for his steadfast love endures forever.
Give thanks to my almighty God,
for his mercy endures forever.
Give thanks unto the King of Kings,
because he reigns in Heaven forever.

to him who all Creation sings,
for his steadfast love endures forever.
to him who is in control of all things,
for his steadfast love endures forever.
to him who sent His only Son to die,
for his steadfast love endures forever.
to him who is Faithful and True,
for his steadfast love endures forever.
to him who is Jehovah Jireh--my provider,
for his steadfast love endures forever.
to him who I can boldly approach the Throne,
for his steadfast love endures forever.
to him who forgives and cleanses all my sin,
for his steadfast love endures forever.

Give thanks to the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and end,
for his steadfast love endures forever.

Glasses

2011-06-10T08:14:00.002-05:00

Elise received her new glasses this past week. She chose purple and pink frames, of course. She looks very grown up in her new glasses :)

Doors

2011-06-08T11:16:00.007-05:00

Doors are opened--doors are closed. Some doors are new, some other ones old. I was reminded of some Scripture verses while looking through some photos of doors. Here are some "door" themed captions:

"Strive to enter through the narrow door. For many, I tell you, will seek to enter and will not be able." (Luke 13:24 ESV)

"Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me." (Rev. 3:20 ESV)

"At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ ..."
(Col. 4:3 ESV)

Prohibited

2011-06-05T19:40:00.002-05:00

This picture was taken at the front entrance of the mall. As you can deduce from the symbols (universal language): No weapons or firearms; No outside food or beverage; No pets; No alcohol. To enter the mall, that about covers it don't you think!

Cold Wave

2011-05-31T14:52:00.003-05:00

This morning's headline in the local newspaper reads," Cold Wave Affects Loja". The "cold wave" hit this past week (which marks the change from the rainy to the dry season). The weather has turned a little chilly, bringing wind and rain with temperatures dropping to 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Normal temps range between 61-72 degrees F. I must admit that I have used my hoody sweatshirt this past week. According to the newspaper article, the "cold wave" is supposed to last for a couple more days. It is a little comical to see people walking around town bundled up in scarves, gloves, knit caps, and heavy coats. Everyone says that it is "freezing cold" outside. Oh, if they could only experience a wintry blustery day of -40 wind chill factor in the Midwest!

Pictures from the Past

2011-05-29T08:49:00.003-05:00

May 2007

2011-05-29T08:48:00.001-05:00

3 Years Ago in May 2008

In A Year

2011-05-21T16:21:00.011-05:00

It is fun to track purchases and activities done throughout the year. Over the span of a year, our family . . .

Consumes a minimum of 720 eggs
Spends at least 20 business days waiting in line & working on official paper work (driver's license, vehicle registration, i.d. cards, etc.)
Drinks approximately 350 liters of milk and over 720 gallons of bottled water
Eats 100 pounds of rice
Sings at least 288 songs from the chorus book during church services
Travels over 6,000 miles for ministry related events

Flora & Fauna

2011-05-15T11:53:00.005-05:00

Ecuador offers a wide variety of flora and fauna. Over the years we have taken snapshots of beautiful flowers and fauna from the Sierra to the jungle. Since we enjoy spring-like temperatures year round, many flowers are always in bloom.

Rooftop bouquet in Guano

Quito Orchids

On Mt. Chimborazo

At the park in Puyo

Palm in Loja

Seasons

2011-05-10T17:07:00.008-05:00

In Ecclesiastes 3 we read that for everything there is a season--a time to be born and a time to die; a time to plant and a time to harvest . . . Where we live near the equator we experience spring-like temps all year round. We do not experience the change of seasons--which we miss sometimes. The season of summer brings shorts, swimming, and watermelon. The change of fall introduces crisp winds, colorful foliage, and apples. The season of winter brings below-zero temps, snowmen, and icicles. The spring season marks new buds, green growth, and life.

Seasons come and seasons go. There is a season for everything and constantly changing. Verse 11 tells us that, "He has made everything beautiful in its time. Also, he has put eternity into man’s heart, yet so that he cannot find out what God has done from the beginning to the end." What a promise! God is still working on us to make us what we ought to be that will last for all eternity. The question I pose to you is what are you doing today that will have an impact for eternity?

Birthday Ballerina

2011-05-04T16:33:00.003-05:00

Elise enjoyed her special day with home-made pizza for lunch, a pink strawberry ballerina cake made by Tracy, and opening presents from the family. Happy 7th Elise and we love you very much!!

Garden City

2011-04-23T08:18:00.004-05:00

We had the opportunity to take a "field trip" to a friend's finca or garden outside of town. The climate there is semi-tropical and we found ourselves surrounded by a multitude of different plants and trees. We were taken on a tour of the property which lasted for a couple of hours. It was interesting to see the wide variety of vegetation from corn and peppers to cacao and starfruit.

Sampling the fruit from the cacao bush

The vegetation is lush and the view scenic

Our "tour guide" with the group

Our friend taught us that the banana produces fruit from the heart (purple flower at the bottom) and that the fruit grows upwards on the tree. It takes three months for a bunch of bananas to grow. Harvesting the bananas takes a couple of whacks with a machete.

Lunch

2011-04-18T12:07:00.003-05:00

Lunch is the big meal for the day. Yesterday for lunch we enjoyed a typical dish of cecina (say-see-nah). The plate consists of yucca and grilled beef, pork, and chicken. The meat is pounded very thin and cooked on an open smoke pit. Mmmm, good--makes your mouth water! Come on down for a visit and we'll take you out for lunch.

31 Ways to Pray for Us

2011-04-13T21:46:00.005-05:00

We greatly appreciate your prayers for our family and ministry. Here are some specific items that you can be praying for us:

1. Being sensitive and receptive to the Word of God

2. Having Christ-like harmony with family, friends, and co-workers

3. Developing a working plan to understand and teach God's Word

4. Being faithful in attending church (specifically preparing oneself to worship God)

5. Being true and faithful to spiritual convictions

6. Sharing the Gospel vibrantly with others

7. Turning first to God in times of trouble (and blessing)

8. Displaying courage in current and future ministry opportunities that God provides

9. Having Biblical insight/discernment in ministry

10. Calling on God's strength for trials and crisis

11. Seeing God's hand in every circumstance of life

12. Being consciously accountable to the Lord (and with other growing Christians)

13. Finding encouragement in God when discouraged

14. Preparing our hearts to hear the Word of God

15. Being faithful in reading, studying, and meditating the Word of God

16. Having a Christ-like response to conflict

17. Growing in ability for wise decision-making

18. Being filled with the knowledge of God's will

19. Growing in Godly character

20. Walking worthy of the Lord

21. Increasing in the knowledge of God

22. Using our spiritual gifts in the will of God

23. Expressing gratefulness for big and little things

24. Having increased victory over Satan's temptation

25. Developing deep and Godly personal relationships

26. Growing in the spiritual discipline of prayer

27. Living blamelessly

28. Being sensitive to take opportunities to minister God's Word

29. Abounding in love for others

30. Respecting and praying for those in authority

31. Looking daily for practical opportunities to speak about Christ to others.

(This list was compiled by Dr. Elwood Chipchase)

Downpour

2011-04-11T20:17:00.007-05:00

Last week we had a downpour that caused some minor flooding. It rained so hard in the span of 3o minutes that the storm drains could not handle the amount of water on the roads. Bill was driving home after picking up Laura from basketball class when the storm hit, and traffic was crawling and had to be diverted to side roads. We found some leaks in the roof that we didn't have before and water came in from the patio areas upstairs. This past week we were able to get some of the leaks in the roof fixed. Bring on the rain!

Basketball

2011-04-10T19:04:00.000-05:00

Laura is involved in an afternoon basketball class. She is enjoying learning about the sport, developing her skills, and making friends. She is one of the tallest in her class so she is a natural rebounder!

Bus Ride

2011-03-15T12:33:00.004-05:00

Top 5 Reasons to Take the Bus:

1. The bus stop is one block from our house.

2. It saves on gas and driving downtown to find a place to park.

3. The bus fare is very cheap.

4. Elise and Joanna really enjoy riding the bus.

5. It is a great way to meet people.

Photography Project

2011-03-09T10:26:00.007-05:00

Ashley is enrolled in a photography class and learning a lot about angles, lighting, etc. Her latest photo shoot is entitled "Southwestern Coffee". Can you smell the robust aroma of a mochaccino?

Elise's Performance

2011-03-08T10:07:00.000-05:00

Elise performed in her class's Carnival of Rhythms. All the groups wore different outfits and her group wore masks. She is a "natural" and is really enjoying her class.

Christmas in February

2011-02-12T21:20:00.001-05:00

We enjoyed celebrating "Christmas" with Tracy's parents. The Christmas decorations were still up waiting their arrival. It was a real treat to receive "goodies" from the States. Thank you Grandpa & Grandma! :)

Family Visit

2011-02-11T21:03:00.000-05:00

We thank the Lord that Tracy's parents arrived safely and we have been enjoying our time together. We love you guys very much!

El Cisne

2011-02-06T10:32:00.007-05:00

The town of El Cisne is located 75 km. from Loja and was established in the 1560s as the center of worship for the Virgin. Two times a year, people from all over the world visit and pay homage to her in the cathedral. This plays an important part of Lojano culture.

Case for a Creator

2011-02-05T10:20:00.006-05:00

"The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork." (Psalm 19:1 ESV)

Living in the heart of the Andes Mountains is a daily reminder of God's beauty of creation

Tea Party

2011-01-23T17:59:00.006-05:00

Tea Party Attendees:
Laura and her doll, Samantha
Elise and her doll, Heidi
Joanna and her doll, Daisy

Event photographer: Ashley

Market Fresh

2011-01-15T12:00:00.003-05:00

We live within walking distance of the market. Bill takes his backpack and his helper, Joanna. They arrive home with a backpack full of fresh fruit for a good price. We have especially been enjoying cherries that come from Chile.

Fun at the P@rK

2011-01-04T15:01:00.005-05:00

Playgrounds. . . Paddle boats. . . Horse rides. . . Swimming pool. . . Soccer/ tennis/ basketball courts. . . Giant slides. .. . Ice cream. . . All of these things add up to one thing--a fun day at the park :)

A New Year's Focus

2010-12-31T09:15:00.006-05:00

Tonight millions around the world will ring in the new year. Many will make resolutions knowing that they will not follow through--to lose weight, to be a better person, to read their Bible more. All these things are good, but discipline and determination are needed to follow through. We know that this year will bring Peter & Paul decisions, Martha & Mary moments, as well as Jonah & Joshua experiences. With God's help, we can make the right decisions and glorify Him in the process. Here are some specific things we will be focusing on this new year:

1. Relying on God's promises (I John 1:9)

2. Reminding ourselves of God's faithfulness (I Thess. 5:24)

3. Rejoicing always (Phil. 4:4-7)

4. Reflecting on God's provision for our family (I Thess. 5:18, Heb. 10:36)

Day by Day

2010-12-26T10:39:00.008-05:00

One of our favorite hymns is "Day by Day" by Karolina W. Sandell-Berg:

Day by day and with each passing moment,
Strength I find to meet my trials here;
Trusting in my Father's wise bestowement,
I've no cause for worry or for fear.

Day by day, step by step, moment by moment. It is easy to get caught up in our problems, trials, and circumstances. We forget to trust God and have faith that He will do what He promises. Here are some "day by day" verses:

(1 Chron. 12.22) "For at that time day by day there came to David to help him, until it was a great host, like the host of God."

(2 Chron. 30.21) "And the children of Israel that were present at Jerusalem kept the feast of unleavened bread seven days with great gladness: and the Levites and the priests praised the LORD day by day, singing with loud instruments unto the LORD."

(Ezra 6.9) "And that which they have need of, both young bullocks, and rams, and lambs, for the burnt offerings of the God of heaven, wheat, salt, wine, and oil, according to the appointment of the priests which are at Jerusalem, let it be given them day by day without fail:"

(Neh. 8.18) "Also day by day, from the first day unto the last day, he read in the book of the law of God..."

(Luke 11.3) "Give us day by day our daily bread."

(2 Cor. 4.16) "For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day."

Merry Christmas ¡Feliz Navidad!

2010-12-24T08:51:00.007-05:00

"She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” (Matthew 1.21)

We hope that you have a blessed CHRISTmas celebrating the birth of our Savior

"Y dará a luz un hijo, y le pondrás por nombre Jesús, porque El salvará a su pueblo de sus pecados." (Mateo 1.21)

Les deseamos una feliz navidad celebrando el nacimiento del nuestro Salvador.

Elise's Ballet Recital

2010-12-22T10:15:00.004-05:00

Elise did a great job in her ballet recital. We hope you enjoy the movie clip (courtesy of Ashley)! Way to go Elerina Ballerina :)

Name Above All Names

2010-12-19T14:53:00.010-05:00

"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." (Isaiah 9.6)

We all have different names and our names express roles and relationships. My birth name is William, my nickname is Bill, and in Spanish they call me Memo (in Mexico) and Guillo (in Ecuador). The name of Jesus is above all other names. Did you know that the New Testament uses over 100 different titles for Christ? Just scroll down and meditate on the names of Jesus Christ:

Advocate (1 John 2:1) Almighty (Rev. 1:8; Mt. 28:18) Alpha and Omega (Rev. 1:8; 22:13) Amen (Rev. 3:14) Apostle (Heb. 3:1) Atoning sacrifice for our sins (1 John 2:2) Author of Life (Acts 3:15) Author and Finisher of our Faith (Heb. 12:2) Author of Salvation (Heb. 2:10) Beginning and End (Rev. 22:13) Bread of God (John 6:33) Bread of Life (John 6:35; 6:48) Bridegroom (Mt. 9:15) Capstone (Acts 4:11; 1 Pet. 2:7) Chief Cornerstone (Eph. 2:20) Chief Shepherd (1 Pet. 5:4) Christ (1 John 2:22) Deliverer (Rom. 11:26) Eternal Life (1 John 1:2; 5:20) Everlasting Father (Isa 9:6) Faithful and True (Rev. 19:11) Faithful Witness (Rev. 1:5) Faithful and True Witness (Rev. 3:14) First and Last (Rev. 1:17; 2:8; 22:13) Firstborn From the Dead (Rev. 1:5) Firstborn over all creation (Col. 1:15) Gate (John 10:9) God (John 1:1, 14; 20:28; Heb. 1:8; Rom. 9:5) Good Shepherd (John 10:11,14) Great God (Titus 2:13) Great Shepherd (Heb. 13:20) Great High Priest (Heb. 4:14) Head of the Church (Eph. 1:22; 4:15; 5:23) Heir of all things (Heb. 1:2) High Priest (Heb. 2:17; 3:1) Holy and True (Rev. 3:7) Holy One (Acts 3:14) Hope (1 Tim. 1:1) Hope of Glory (Col. 1:27) Horn of Salvation (Luke 1:69) I Am (John 8:58) Image of God (2 Cor. 4:4) Immanuel (Mt. 1:23) Judge of the living and the dead (Acts 10:42) King of Israel (John 1:49) King of the Jews (Mt. 27:11) King of kings (Rev. 19:16) King of the Ages (Rev. 15:3) Lamb (Rev. 13:8) Lamb of God (John 1:29) Lamb Without Blemish (1 Pet. 1:19) Last Adam (1 Cor. 15:45) Life (John 14:6; Col. 3:4) Light of the World (John 8:12) Lion of the Tribe of Judah (Rev. 5:5) Living One (Rev. 1:18) Living Stone (1 Pet. 2:4) Lord (2 Pet. 2:20) Lord of All (Acts 10:36) Lord of Glory (1 Cor. 2:8) Lord of lords (Rev. 19:16) Man from Heaven (1 Cor. 15:48) Mediator of a New Covenant (Heb. 9:15) Mighty God (Isa. 9:6) Morning Star (Rev. 22:16) Offspring of David (Rev. 22:16) Only Begotten Son of God (John 1:18; 1 John 4:9) Our Great God and Savior (Titus 2:13) Our Holiness (1 Cor. 1:30) Our Husband (2 Cor. 11:2) Our Protection (2 Thess. 3:3) Our Redemption (1 Cor. 1:30) Our Righteousness (1 Cor. 1:30) Our Sacrificed Passover Lamb (1 Cor. 5:7) Power of God (1 Cor. 1:24) Precious Cornerstone (1 Pet. 2:6) Prince of peace (Isa. 9:6) Prophet (Acts 3:22) Rabbi (Mt. 26:25) Resurrection and Life (John 11:25) Righteous Branch (Jer. 23:5) Righteous One (Acts 7:52; 1 John 2:1) Rock (1 Cor. 10:4) Root of David (Rev. 5:5; 22:16) Ruler of God’s Creation (Rev. 3:14) Ruler of the Kings of the Earth (Rev. 1:5) Savior (Eph. 5:23; Titus 1:4; 3:6; 2 Pet. 2:20) Son of David (Luke 18:39) Son of God (John 1:49; Heb. 4:14) Son of Man (Mt. 8:20) Son of the Most High God (Luke 1:32) Source of Eternal Salvation for all who obey him (Heb. 5:9) The One Mediator (1 Tim. 2:5) The Stone the builders rejected (Acts 4:11) True Bread (John 6:32) True Light (John 1:9) True Vine (John 15:1) Truth (John 1:14; 14:6) Way (John 14:6) Wisdom of God (1 Cor. 1:24) Wonderful Counselor (Isaiah 9:6) Word (John 1:1) Word of God (Rev. 19:13)

Borrowed from another blog on our blogroll

Ballet

2010-12-14T13:30:00.003-05:00

Elise attends ballet class three times a week. It is something that she really enjoys doing and it is a great way to meet new friends. One of her teachers called her a "natural". These pictures were taken in the theater during rehearsal for the Christmas performance.

God's Humble Visit

2010-12-10T18:57:00.002-05:00

Phillip Yancey observed in his book, The Jesus I Never Knew:

“God’s visit to Earth took place humbly, in a berth for animals with no attendants present and nowhere to lay the new-born king but a food trough. Indeed, the event that divided history, and even our calendars, into two parts had more animals than human witnesses. For an instant, the sky grew luminous with angels. Yet, who saw that spectacle? Illiterate hirelings who watched the flocks of other `nobodies` who failed to leave their names. Shepherds had a randy reputation and other Jews lumped them together with the `godless.` Fittingly, it was they who God selected to help celebrate the birth of one who would be known as the friend of sinners.”

Look Who's 3

2010-12-08T13:55:00.003-05:00

2010-12-08T13:52:00.004-05:00

NOW
Happy Birthday Joanna! We are so glad that you are three years old today and you are growing up so fast. We thank God for your life.

THEN

Christmas Past

2010-12-06T08:53:00.001-05:00

This photo was taken Christmas 2006 (before Joanna was born). It is always fun to look back at old photos. How all the girls how grown!!!!

Happy Birthday T.C.

2010-12-02T22:02:00.009-05:00

Happy Birthday Tracy, Tere, or TC! You are a great oil painter, organizer, mom, wife, & friend. We love you very much and thank God for your life.

(High school senior picture 1990)

Home Sweet Home

2010-11-29T19:32:00.006-05:00

You know you are living in Ecuador when ...

1. You hear music tunes playing from the gas and garbage trucks.

2. Getting your driver's license takes 15 trips to the DMV.

3. You can buy green coffee beans at $1.50/ lb. and roast the beans yourself on the grill.

4. $5 at the market will bring you home two grocery bags full of fruit.

5. You give the cashier a $20 bill for a $2 purchase and she cannot make change, or she gives you back change that weighs 15 pounds (they love the .50 piece & the gold dollar coin).

6. Eight of the ten people you talked with today are named José or María (Joseph or Mary).

Census

2010-11-28T07:50:00.006-05:00

Today is the national census which occurs every ten years. Thousands of high school students around the country are visiting every household and conducting the census. It is quiet, very quiet (except for our girls playing outside). Everything is closed--banks, churches, restaurants, and stores. There is even a law that no liquor is to be sold for 24 hours. We are supposed to stay inside our home until 5 p.m. and the police are patrolling the streets making sure nobody leaves their dwelling places. Our interviewer came and we answered all of the questions of the six page survey and have been officially "counted". The results of the census will be made known to the public in six months.

Did you know that in 2009 nationally . . .

361, 345 babies were born?
There were 76,892 marriages & 17,117 divorces?
That the recorded population was 14,286,678 (before the census) according to the national census bureau?

Thunder

2010-11-27T15:10:00.007-05:00

We just had a thunderstorm this afternoon and that is a rare occurrence for us here. I was vacuuming the floor and saw a white flash of lightning that hit close to the house. Two seconds later, I heard the boom of the thunder over the whine of the vacuum. It once again reminded me of God's omnipotence, His almighty power and strength.

Job 40.9 "Have you an arm like God, and can you thunder with a voice like his?"

Psalm 77.17 "The clouds poured out water; the skies gave forth thunder; your arrows flashed on every side."

Thanksgiving Trivia

2010-11-25T06:52:00.002-05:00

Following a brutal winter in the New World, the Pilgrims celebrated their first successful harvest in 1621 with a Thanksgiving feast. 90 members of the Wampanoag tribe and their chief, Massasoit attended. The Native Americans initially went to investigate the sounds of gunfire, which turned out to be the Pilgrims’ celebration. Upon this discovery, Massasoit sent his hunters out and they returned with five deer and numerous fowl to share with the Pilgrims over the course of their three day Thanksgiving celebration.

Thanksgiving wasn’t considered a national holiday until 1863 when President Abraham Lincoln released a proclamation, officially establishing the last Thursday in November as Thanksgiving. The Thanksgiving holiday was later moved to the fourth Thursday in November by President Franklin Roosevelt.

Canadians also celebrate Thanksgiving; however theirs is on the 2nd Monday in October.

Over 45 million turkeys are prepared and eaten in the United States for Thanksgiving each year.

Did you know that turkeys can run up to 25 MPH and fly up to 55 MPH, see in color, have excellent hearing but have no ears, and sometimes sleep in trees?

Turkeys may "gobble, gobble" in English, but in Spanish they say, "gluglú, gluglú"!

2010-11-25T06:48:00.000-05:00

Giving Thanks

2010-11-24T19:04:00.015-05:00

"O give thanks unto the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever!" (Psalm 107.1)

Tomorrow we will sit around the table with our co-workers and enjoy a turkey dinner with all of the fixings. It is easy to give thanks on Thanksgiving Day, but everyday we should never cease to give thanks to God for His provision and protection in our lives. Here are a few of the things that come to mind as we count our many blessings:

We count it a privilege to serve the Lord.

The Lord has led us here and has so graciously provided for our needs. We have been in Loja four months now. The work is going slower than anticipated. There are no Bible studies yet, but we continue to meet new people. Please pray that God will lead us to people whose hearts are ready to accept the Gospel.

We are blessed with wonderful supporters & churches that encourage us.

The apostle Paul expresses our thoughts so well in 2 Thessalonians 1:3 -- "We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is fitting, because your faith groweth exceedingly, and the love of every one of you all toward each other (and toward us!) aboundeth." We are so thankful for the many churches and individuals who uphold us in prayer and support us on a monthly basis. We in turn have the responsibility of being good stewards with what the Lord has given to us to use for His glory. Pray with us that we will be mindful every day to accomplish His will, using our gifts and talents for Him.

We are blessed with a precious family!

Join us in prayer as we give thanks to God for our family, for protection, for His daily help and His daily provisions.

What are you thankful for?

Our Puppy

2010-11-21T20:41:00.002-05:00

Abby is a Husky/ German shepherd mix

Victory

2010-11-13T07:26:00.007-05:00

Last night we watched the local soccer team Liga de Loja play. They easily won 4-1 and clinched a spot to move up to the next division to play with the "big boys". After every goal that was scored, fans chanted, waved flags, and generally went crazy. The stadium was packed and the atmosphere electric. After the game, long lines of cars were honking, celebrating the victory. This was just one soccer game victory. Spiritually speaking, God has given us the victory through his Son, Jesus Christ. The victory of eternal life is so much important than a victory at a soccer game.

"To love God means that we obey his commandments. Obeying his commandments isn’t difficult because everyone who has been born from God has won the victory over the world. Our faith is what wins the victory over the world. Who wins the victory over the world? Isn’t it the person who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?" (I John 5.3-5)

Editor's Pick

2010-11-10T16:04:00.008-05:00

These pictures were taken by Ashley for her photography class. We the editors have picked our four favorites and would like to hear from you. Vote for your favorite on the sidebar to the right!

Fall

Park

Tired

Palm

Fleas

2010-11-08T17:07:00.004-05:00

Been thinkin' about fleas. I just "nuked" our puppy and cat with a flea treatment. Fleas can be like unconfessed sin in our lives. The sin can be a nuisance to our conscience and left untreated over time, can fester and fester. What a joy it is to know that we can bring our burdens before the Lord, unload them one by one at His feet and enjoy sweet fellowship after "nuking" (confessing) our flea-ridden sins to Him.

"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."
(I John 1.9 ESV)

Sweet 16

2010-10-28T06:16:00.004-05:00

Happy 16th Birthday Ashley. We love you very much & thank God for your life!

O.O.T.O.

2010-10-27T19:42:00.004-05:00

Out Of The Ordinary--Things we don't see happen everyday

1. Waiting with the girls in front of the Howard Johnson Hotel surrounded by the military, secret service, and the press to see the President of Ecuador for 2 minutes.

2. An amoured car broken down along side of the road with armed guards emptying the money bags into another amoured car.

3. Ashley turning sixteen years old.

4. The repair man who came to fix the water pump greeted and talked with Bill in English. He offered to "teach" Bill plumbing in exchange for practicing his English.

Water

2010-10-25T11:30:00.011-05:00

(Photo taken by Ashley for photography class)

Water is something we take for granted. You can turn on the kitchen faucet and out comes water. It is a luxury and something that we don't even think about until you do not have it. Our water pump is broken and we do not have running water into the house. The city water from the street comes into a large holding tank in the back of our house and then the pump turns on to bring it inside. Right now, we are anxiously awaiting the arrival of the technician to bring the repair parts. We have been bringing water in the old fashioned way--using the "bucket brigade" system. Washing dishes yes, but not washing laundry or taking showers. At least we still have jugs of drinking water. This experience was a reminder of our primary purpose for being here. Many people are spiritually thirsty and looking for answers. It is our responsibility to share with them the "Living Water".

Safe & Secure

2010-10-22T14:24:00.004-05:00

People ask us all the time, "Do you feel safe living in a third world country?" Granted we have metal bars on our windows and an alarm system in our house, a gated wall, deadbolt locks, and a truck alarm. Many measures are taken for our protection, but we remind folks what Isaiah 26.3 says, "With perfect peace you will protect those whose minds cannot be changed, because they trust you." Yes we have been robbed before, but we always remember that we are safe and secure from all alarms because we are leaning on the Everlasting Arms.

Playing soccer

2010-10-21T14:12:00.001-05:00

Bill, Cris, and Chaz play soccer at least 2-3 times a week in the stadium or on artificial turf. It is a great way to get some exercise, but more importantly to make new contacts and build friendships.

Broken

2010-10-09T19:26:00.011-05:00

About a month ago, I drove past a house in the countryside off the "beaten path". This family's business is a humble roadside kiln where they make and sell pottery. I bought a clay pot from the lady to give to Tracy, but did not know that it was still "wet" and not cured. Within minutes the clay pot was shattered into tiny pieces. It reminded me of the fact that our bodies are like jars of clay and that we are being molded and shaped by the Potter's hands. Sometimes He has to hammer and hurt us--sometimes we are broken. But the fact is, He is molding us and shaping us into His image.

Harvest

2010-10-06T10:16:00.010-05:00

One of the things we miss the most living on the Equator is the change of seasons. Autumn is one of our favorite seasons with reminders of the beautiful foliage and harvest time. Bill was cleaning out his desk and found a message that was delivered at a missions conference years ago by a very dear friend. It was on John 4.35 where Jesus was talking to his disciples,

1. "Lift up your eyes": raise your sights and expand your vision

2. "Look at the fields": readjust your focus and see that the harvest is right in front of you

3. "They are already white": recognize the opportunity--right here right now

"Do you not say, 'There are yet four months, then comes the harvest'? Look, I tell you, lift up your eyes, and see that the fields are white for harvest."

Spiders

2010-10-01T19:06:00.004-05:00

I (Bill) do not like spiders or snakes. Maybe that is why I am thankful that I do not live in the jungle. Where we live we do not have a lot of spiders or even bugs. A couple of weeks ago, we were meeting in our living room for a church service. I looked down on the floor and I saw it! A big, hairy spider was crawling down from the fireplace and following the floor trim. It was definitely the biggest spider I have seen here. The following events felt like it happened in slow motion. All of the kids stayed in their chairs, while I got up and smashed it! Looking back I should have put it in a glass jar because Cris wants a pet spider. On second thought, NO! I made the right decision in the heat of the moment.