Windy Texas day

Phil's beloved grandfather passed away Dec. 13th in Maine at the VA home. He'd been there for almost 5 years. Some of you may remember Phil going up to Maine to see him when he was so ill in early 2004. Shortly after we went to Ecuador and it was Phil's prayer request to see his grandfather alive again. This picture is when we returned in 2007. This summer our family was able to celebrate his 88th birthday with him, his wife, Betty, their 7 children and spouses. Please pray for the family during this sad time.

It is 29 degrees with lots of wind, so it feels like 11. Nate had his third ortho appointment today. So much progress. We even met Dr. Birth today, the lead dentist. We have a tradition to get soft glazed donuts after the appointments. I am proud of him for keeping them clean and all of the pain he's endured. If anyone is considering braces, they are worth it, but the first week especially with expanders is excruciating. I am running out to buy gas at $1.36 before it creeps back up. Abi and I will wrap presents later.

Phil is in Prague teaching at the Baptist Seminary. Please lift up his students that struggle with sharing their faith in such a post-Christian culture.