Work, work, work . . .

Busyness is the word of the day.

Vickie and the kids return from her mom's this afternoon and not a moment too soon.  During the past week I spent four days in North Carolina speaking at a church followed by three days of absence from my family while they are in Maryland.  I miss them.

So, to keep my self busy and out of trouble I have spent the last few days cleaning and packing, packing and cleaning, and oh, did I mention cleaning?  Our goal is to leave the Residence cleaner and better than we found it.  The jury is still out as to whether or not that will happen.

Hannah, thank God, is doing amazingly well.  August 1st she will be able to get her head wet (swimming, showering, and the like) a date to which she is looking forward with great anticipation.  The three boys are doing well also, although the stress of upcoming move is having its toll on everyone.  Aaron, the young man who moved in with us to attend college, has been a huge help watching the kids and cleaning while we pack.  Finally Vickie is amazing as always, packing and cleaning with a typical ferocity learned after many years of military living.  After we get settled I hope to take everyone out for a relaxing day.  Maybe we'll go see a movie . . . 

It has come to my attention recently that there is a person in NJ who is again attacking my family and myself.  Two years ago this person virulently spoke evil things against us, making broad accusations.  All of the accusations were proven false.  This did not stop the evil speaking, however.  I am amazed, after two years of relative silence, that she would again come forward so aggressively, filled with rage. I am amazed even more that people are still listening to her tired judgments.  Someone once said that the way we conduct ourselves when attacked reveals who we really are, and I believe this to be true.  Every attack is really an opportunity for us to tune our selves, improve ourselves, and show our love for God and others in new ways.  Person, if you're reading this, I want you to know that we are praying for you and your family.  We pray that God's ministry, mercy, and peace will envelop you. 

Meanwhile, we have ten days left in Philadelphia before we head West.  Despite the challenges we currently face, we are all looking forward to the move.  We can't help but believe that God has wonderful things in store for us.  Indeed, during these trying times, He alone has remained our One True Hope.

Thank you for reading.  I'll keep you posted.