An Especially Difficult Couple of Weeks

Please pray for our family on a number of fronts. Mary found out last week that her mother was diagnosed with cancer and will be going in for surgery soon. She would obviously like to be right by her Mom's side during this time but that will not be possible. Her aunt is planning to come from California. Mary hopes to go home to Maine in April with Eve to be with her Mom post-surgery. Please pray that we are able to get her there.

My cousin Patrick McCourtney, 47 years old, took his life this week after struggling with depression for some time. We had not experienced anything like this in our family and it is incredibly disturbing. Please pray for my Mother and for Patrick's family as they wrestle with digesting this.

School was also more difficult this week. Both Mary and I had the feeling that our minds were "at capacity" and if we had to take in much more it may spill out our ears! This was complicated by the fact that we both had exams. Fortunately, next week is "Spiritual Emphasis Week" and the teachers are not allowed to give exams or homework. Throughout the week we will be hearing from special speakers on a variety of different biblical topics designed to bring us deeper in our walk. We are looking forward to this and will be anxious to share what we learn with you all.

The children all received their first-quarter report cards yesterday and I am happy to report that they are all doing great...alot of A's and a few B's. Their teachers reported that they have adjusted nicely to their new culture and are learning alot. Praise God!