This year, we again find ourselves grateful to God for His many blessings on our family. We’re glad for the 7 ½ years we were able to spend getting to know Gary’s parents while they shared a home with us. Now, we’re thankful they are being cared for in a nice assisted living apartment that Gary’s sister picked out for them. And we’re happy for the extra living space, especially after finding out that God is granting us another sweet little relative who should arrive by next February.
We’re pleased to have been able to spend some time with my parents in July at Yellowstone Bible Camp near Pray, MT. And I’m particularly appreciative to have seen my parents again in late September when they flew out here for a few days. Though my dad was obviously in pain from his bone cancer, he seemed to enjoy their visit.
Gary’s long hours and the hard physical labor of his job made it easier to be enthusiastic about his unexpected job loss in September. We have all benefitted from his daily presence, his calm demeanor and abundant wisdom.
Dragon's decision in June to put on Christ in baptism was overwhelmingly welcome, and it’s a joy to watch her thirst for the Word and speak spiritual truths. She has continued her Japanese studies as well, hoping that God will use her skills to His glory and the benefit of the kingdom. She amazes me with her clothing design abilities. She patterns as she cuts, uses only what we already have, and sews every stitch by hand. She created a unique jacket with super-large pockets out of extra drapes we had, lining it with old tablecloth material. She has also knitted several large scarves this year, using the abundance of yarn others have given us.
God continues to hone Book's and Anony's character and integrity, drawing them to a deeper walk with Him and solidifying the commitments they each made in previous Junes. Book hopes to graduate this May, frantically cramming required credits into her senior year. She plans to attend a state college locally, living at home while working toward her nursing degree. If scholarships allow, she would love to transfer to Harding University’s nursing program with her associate’s degree in a few years.
Anony is our newest “driver in training”, increasing Gary’s gray hairs as he instructs her. She is enjoying her junior year, taking several classes through a homeschool co-op and involved again on the yearbook staff.
The winged one and her oldest brother, Jay, both volunteer with MOPs (Mothers of Preschoolers) twice a month, babysitting the children while their mothers take time to be encouraged and refreshed. Bee (she of the aforementioned wings) is slowly maturing, gradually learning duty, consistency and cheerfulness.
Jay bought two parakeets in early September. Their cage is in the boys’ room, so they’re surrounded by activity and noise. So far, he has cared well for his birds, keeping them clean, fed, and watered. He’s disappointed that they won’t step one claw outside of their cage or even onto his finger, but he’s not giving up yet.
Nick continues to make up stories and games for his siblings to play. He still struggles with dyslexia, but has begun showing some encouraging signs of improvement. He has recently been having fun riding a smaller-sized motorcycle around our property, taking turns with Jay.
Lately, Mike has become a reader, devouring stories about the Littles. He also impresses with his kitchen prowess, whipping up scrambled eggs, omelets, breakfast burritos, and quesadillas. He is all boy, wrestling his older brothers—though he has yet to beat Jay. He has more scars than the rest of the kids combined, and he wears them proudly.
Cade just turned five but is eager to be much older. She enjoys having tea parties with KC and playing with her brothers’ Lego people. She has a quirky sense of humor. KC admires Cade and is developing her own peculiar wit. They play well together most of the time.
All of the children are looking forward to holding their new baby sister, though Jay is hoping the ultrasound technician made a mistake and we’re actually having a boy.
May you all have a blessed 2010 and revel in God’s goodness to you. | 
