2008--The Year that Was (almost!)

Another year has come and, almost, gone. To think it is almost 2009 is amazing. Where does the time go? We celebrated our 40th Wedding anniversary this past July and we won’t even mention those other “mile markers” of age! Even though I don’t seem to get around to sending Christmas greetings every year, that doesn’t mean friends from past and present are not in our thoughts. God has been so good to us over the years and brought so many people into our lives, bringing blessings in so many different ways. For that we are very grateful. This year has been an especially busy, fulfilling year for us. I am still enjoying teaching at the University of Arkansas in Monticello. I made a big move from Early Childhood to Middle Level (grades 4—8) this past year and I love it. Besides teaching Middle Level preservice teachers, I also teach in the Master of Arts of Teaching (MAT) program. The MAT is an alternative licensure program for teachers of students in grades 4 through 12. Teaching at a university is a constant challenge—I can truthfully say I had no idea how much work it would be. But, I still love it! Working with university students is such a blessing to me!

Delbert's Busy Retirement

Delbert stays busy meeting needs in the community. He not only is a Deacon at our church (First Baptist, Warren) but also is active with the local Gideons. With all the stormy weather this past year, he was often called on to participate in the chainsaw crews for Disaster Relief. All of the widows in town have his phone number and when something needs repairing or chopping down, he is the one they call. As President of the local Lions Club, he leads the way in providing vision screening for local children. In spite of all the activities, he still finds time to hunt and fish—especially with his grandsons, Gage and Gavin.

Delbert's Mission Trip to Mexico

In August of 2008, Delbert made his 2nd trip to Mexico. He was in Llano Largo just north of Mexico City. The purpose of the trip was to help build a house for a local pastor. His plans include a return trip with youth from our church this spring break.

Budapest

One of the highlights of the trip to Hungary was a visit to history-filled Budapest. The Danube, Chain Bridge, the food, the Market, and so many other breathtaking sights...

Spring Break with the BCM in Debrecen, Hungary

One of the highlights of 2008 for me was to participate with the UAM Baptist Collegiate Ministry (BCM) in a trip to Debrecen in eastern Hungary. I was also fortuante to travel to Gyor (western Hungary) in Fall 2007. Both trips were to universities and a fantastic learning experience for me. I will admit traveling with college students was also a learning experience. Overall, they were a great bunch of kids and we had a great time.

Gage's Vindication

It was reported earlier in this blog that Gage did not kill a deer at Thanksgiving. Well, that statement is no longer true. While hunting today, Andy found the deer that Gage "missed." The deer had been felled with a single, perfect shot to the heart. The body was a short 30 yards from where Gage shot it. Too bad those with "hunter eyes" could not see it.