Thursday, January 23, 2020

Ellie turns 6!

Our little girl, the one who made us parents, turned 6 a few weeks ago! We can't believe she's getting so big and is getting ready to start school (first grade) this fall. We had our school sign-up interview last week, and she impressed the teacher with her vocabulary and German language skills, enthusiastic sharing and fine motor skills. She has grown up so much in the last few years and is now confident, bold and creative, always coming up with new games, crafts and imaginative projects. She loves ballet, drawing, singing and playing pretend. She's not afraid to go off on her own and meet new people (which was not the case a few years ago!) and people are always complimenting her on her sweet and caring nature. We love you, Ellie!


Celebrating at home after a day opening gifts and swimming at the thermal baths.

Friends party at the play area of a local furniture store


Opening gifts

Another "spraying candle"

Unicorn theme!

Highlights from Malta

Over New Year's this year, we had the privilege of travelling to Malta for WorldVenture's Hope Malta Conference for all of the workers in Europe and the Middle East. It was an incredibly encouraging 5 days for us. They had a team come in from Texas to plan a great program for the kids and while they were having fun, we had the chance to worship, listen to great teachings from Mark Young (President of Denver Seminary and former WorldVenture missionary), attend helpful and practical workshops and spend time with other missionaries. We also heard updates from the home office on policies, training and health care, had important in-person meetings, and reconnected with friends with whom we'd attended training years ago. A highlight was a talent show and party on New Year's eve, where I (Bethany) performed the "Who's on First" skit with our teammate and friend, Beth, and performed a song with Nate. We came away from the week exhausted but also rejuvenated and encouraged.

Here are a few photo highlights from our trip:

Beth and I performing Who's on First


The full video of our shortened version of "Who's on First"

Nate and I performing a duet at the talent show

We had a free day and went to the island of Gozo. We got to go climbing there with some others

Pub Quiz night with our "hosts" (These are our direct supervisors! haha)

Worship in English - a huge blessing!