A Time to Reflect and Be Thankful

It’s hard to believe it’s been over a year since we have posted to the family blog – which will give you an idea of what life has been like in our world! We hope each of you have had a good year with special memories made along the way, as you navigate your own full lives.

Steve is marking his 13th year as part of Living Waters for the World, which continues to grow and face new challenges, with 663 water systems serving communities in 25 countries. Tonya has done some freelance graphic design work and manages the family, keeping everyone on track. Tonya’s mom, Diane, came to live with us in September and has provided a much-appreciated extra set of hands and gentle, loving spirit.

Lily Grace will turn seven! in January and is adapting well to the challenges of first grade, loving reading and math. We are still adjusting to the rigor now expected of new elementary school kids – homework four nights a week (in the first grade?) and teaching concepts we first learned in the third and fourth grades! 

Sam is a happy-go-lucky four-year-old with just two gears – 5th and park – and has never met a stranger. He has qualified for our county school system’s Pre-K program, which will help in his development, and both children are benefiting from daily exercise therapy we’ve begun this fall.

Glancing back though this blog helps give us a “rearview mirror” appreciation of our many blessings. Thanks to all who have followed our journey ever since we started preparing paperwork in anticipation of that first life-changing flight to Kazakhstan six years ago.  We appreciate and treasure your prayers and support. 

May your upcoming holidays be full of love and laughter, praise and thanksgiving.

Steve and Tonya