july [a slow start]

This was a rare week for us. Nothing like staying home, doing most of the same things we usually do in a week's time but calling it a 'week off.' It was Jon who got a break in routine with the arrival of term break at the Bible School. It was well deserved!

 He has a 2 week break between each term. They are usually filled with additional teaching or other things. March's term break was used up holding our new baby. This term break found us hosting a conference which you can read about  here. 

This week's break in the schedule at a great time. We fit in some rainy season cleaning, a July 4th party, & lots of 2nd grade taught by Dad & much baby time. 4 months is a delightful age. See more of Leila here. It's great fun to get her to trade that furrowed brow and stare for a gaping smile & (almost) chuckle. 

4th of July party at the Baptist guesthouse. Burgers were a great treat as was the huge yard for the children to expend all extra energy. We enjoyed catching up with friends and making new ones.

 

  Have we told you we just said goodbye to Gary & Joy Butikofer? We wish them all the best as they settle back into WI.

Gary & Joy receiving their going away gift from the students & faculty. Speeches were given, hymns were sung in honor of Gary & goodbyes were said.

A collection of friends enjoyed the evening together with Gary & Joy a few days before they left Ghana.

How about what this guy's been up to?

Mike enjoying lunch with friends at the Lead Like Jesus seminar. He has entered into this culture with both feet. Joining in fufu eating contests, eating banku for breakfast (often) & living on a Ghana schedule. He will finish his 4 months of assisting Ron with the building project this week. He will be missed.

And have mentioned how much we are going to miss this lil' family? Ron & Audrey Bontrager will be training Barb & Leon Geigley to take their place beginning August 1. They leave Ghana August 26. They are wonderful friends & coworkers to us all. We look forward to seeing the great things God has in store for them.

Pastor Felix praying over the Bontrager family at his church in Boi.

Or how after more than 2 years we still mightily enjoy Grandma's love sent by mail?

And now you know. :)