On Saturday (2/21), we traveled from Tallahassee to Ocoee where we would present our work at Victory Baptist Church on Sunday morning. We met a precious couple (Mr. and Mrs. Edwards) who teach at the church’s Christian school and live in a home on the church property. Ironically we learned that Jim had taught their son when he attended PCC. They invited us for a homemade pizza dinner, and allowed our kids to make their own “personal pizzas.” We had the privilege of being at Faith Baptist in Clermont on Sunday evening. Pastor and Mrs. Shackelford’s daughter was one of Kari’s nursing students at PCC and had also served with us in Peru in 2011. Sunday was our Sophia’s 5th birthday. Mrs. Shackelford had a birthday bag for her and gift bags for Matthew and Amelia as well. Upon returning to our camper in Ocoee, the Edwards surprised Sophia with a birthday cake and candles. We are so thankful for God’s people treating our children in such a special way.

We are currently parked in Hilliard, FL (north of Jacksonville), at Buford Grove Baptist Church, where Jim preached on Sunday morning. Our meetings this coming Sunday are within 30 miles of here. The pastor and church family here have been very gracious to us. It has been nice to stay put for a week and be able to concentrate on homeschooling as well as other daily tasks such as cleaning and laundry 🙂

On Tuesday morning, after family devotions but before school, Amelia (our 8 year old) sweetly trusted Christ as her savior. We have been praying for her and burdened for her salvation. It was obvious that the Lord had been convicting her recently. We rejoice that her name has been written in the Lamb’s Book of Life.