November fun

This November has been filled with numerous events and gatherings.

One of our favorite family outings is spending time with other families and playing together

...in the leaves

...around the table playing cards......or board games on the floor... ...and the most fun of all; making up our own games...

click play to watch a clip of the most recent "original game creation".

Another highlight in November was an evening that we were able to spend playing games and visiting with the John Loewen family from Hutchison. After dinner, we played a lively game of "Bible Tri-bond" and then of "Bunko". All of the little ones were able to join in the fun.

This month, we were also blessed to spend time with family. Little Jonathan has been a most welcome addition.

Each grandchild has his/her own distinct personality; each one is special in their own way. click play to watch little Ethan enjoying his "playtime" with grandma. As you will be able to tell, he has a bit of an ornery streak! (The game is-step on grandma's foot, and hear her say ouch!)

Little Ethan and Esther playing ball in Ethan's room.

Another "playtime" with friends includes the recent programs "playing instruments".
The girls were able to bring a "Thanksgiving" instrumental program to the senior group at Central Community Church. It was a beautiful mix of classical strings and mountain hymns. It was a blessing to be able to encourage and share our faith with other believers. The girls gave short testimonials about the purpose for their music, and their desire to bring glory to their God.

The girls played dinner music during the banquet.

We are able to incorporate Sarah and Kayla Flora into the program.

The girls at the table, decorated for Thanksgiving by the group at Central Community. The dinner was fabulous!


Of course, each month has its negative aspects as well...like when a major appliance gives up the ghost! However, we took friends, and made it into a fun event. Sharing life's experiences with others always seems to take the sting out of the bad times. Thank you Lord for good friends.

Hannah has been teaching violin lessons to a young lady named Lynnanne. She and her sister come to the house weekly with their mom. It has been a joy getting acquainted with their family.

Samuel still spends most of his time studying. Here he has set up a physics experiment on my coffee table.... yes, it involves fire, and yes...it is on a WOOD coffee table with sheets of PAPER, and yes, it is being done in the middle of my living room! ...

(at least he got an A)

On our way to visit Rachel after Jonathan's birth, we were able to have a nice family breakfast together at I-hop with Rebecca and Esther. Esther had no trouble finishing her little pancakes and eggs!

We spent each Saturday morning in November at Youth Symphony rehearsal.

We are blessed by the opportunity for the kids to be able to participate in such a wonderful program as this.

Hannah keeps the violin section in line.

Also during this past month, Esther came to our house for occasional visits. Here she's helping Samuel fold his laundry...

click play to watch this clip.


Thanksgiving day, we were able to spend in Joplin this year. The cooks posed for this shot, just before the food began to disappear.

It looked like this right now...but not for long.

Ethan, as always, was the center of attention at Thanksgiving...

Until he got in the way of the football game!!!!

The women doted on the new baby; Jonathan slept most of the time. Aunt Cindy certainly has a way with little ones!

The men could find a game at any time of the day or night...which isn't hard on Thanksgiving Day!

The Massey's, Dan and Rebecca, Dave and Rachel, and all the little ones were able to join us for a memorable Thanksgiving the following Sunday evening. We each shared the highlights of our year and what God has done for us. We then had a time of prayer for our family, and their continued attitude of gratefulness to the Lord for all He has done for us; especially in giving us His son to die in our place. We have much to be thankful for. We hope your Thanksgiving was a blessing as well.