Bihar, India

Jesus stood up and cried out, "If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, "Out of his heart will flow rivers of Living Water."

John 7:37-38

These are two of our dearest friends, Jayson & Marianne West. They are also leaders of our Awana Cubbies. Jayson & Marianne travelled to Bihar, India on Sunday and will be back this upcoming Sunday. Bihar is recognized as the "graveyard of missions" by Operation World. Our Awana ministry decided to focus our tithes and offerings on the villages of Bihar after learning of the lack of fresh water. Our precious Awana clubbers have raised enough money, $800 each, to support the digging of two wells in this impoverished village.

More importantly, these wells are dedicated in the name of the Lord. These villages, where less than 0.02% are Christian, are hearing the name and good news of Christ. Please pray for these precious people and their hunger to know Him more.

3 years old!

Our sweet Eli is 3 years old! Wow-this one was hard for me! Three seems much older than two, and it is so apparent how much he has grown up in the last few months. We certainly feel proud to call him our son. He has blessed our lives in so many ways.

MawMaw and Paas got him a brand new set of "real" golf clubs. He has an uncanny ability to hit a golf ball so his Daddy already has him practicing...Papa & Gigi got him a "real" basketball goal, and like little boys do, our two have already discovered dunking off the stairs. He also got his own fishing rod with weights so he can practice casting in the backyard. Knowing our two little boys, most of these gifts will require direct supervision....

Happy Birthday Eli! We love you so much!

1st Dentist Visit

These pictures crack me up-you would think we were doing investigative reporting on Tammy's hygientist skills. Thanks Dad for the great pictures! Thanks Dad for coming! As soon as Eli learned of his impending Dentist appointment he asked everyday if his Papa would be there, and of course his Papa didn't disappoint.

Eli was an angel. Perfect the entire time. He didn't so much as whimper about having his teeth cleaned. I was so impressed. I thought he would do well, but not really this well. No worries, little brother will more than make up for our peaceful adventure this morning when he takes his first trip to the Dentist-I promise. Back to Eli, it was surprising to learn that he doesn't have any of his 2-year molars yet, 3 are cutting and 1 is still under the skin.

Eli and I are rarely alone and today was one of those exceptions. As he went over to pick out a sticker, he quickly selected a Spiderman for himself, but then studied them all to see which one would be perfect for Knox. He did the same thing when picking out his new toothbrush. I was so touched today by how little time he takes to consider a "treat" for himself, but is meticulous when thinking of his brother. He never asked if it was okay to take goodies to Knox, it is just automatic for him. Knox sure does have a great big brother!

Knox

This little boy is growing up faster than I'd like to admit. He weighs 32 pounds, five pounds lighter than Eli, and is never more than a few feet from his brother. Their bond continues to amaze me. I can't believe at this young age Knox can already love Eli so much. He also loves anything Eli loves. He rarely thinks for himself, always feeding off of anything Eli says or does. Eli's best friends are Knox's best friends, and Eli doesn't seem to mind. Knox, you are rotten to the core...

Dear Eli...

Dear Eli,

You are almost three years old and this nearly breaks your Mommy's heart. I cannot believe that time has gone by this fast. You are such a great brother to Knox. You always include him in all that you do. You confidently interpret all his babble. You also ask me not to pop his hand when he disobeys, stating "that hurts him Mommy." It breaks your heart for Knox to be corrected.

You have an extremely strong will that is just beginning to really reveal itself. You love your Daddy above all others and ask about him often during our days together. I often overhear you telling Knox, "Daddy is in Stanford today." You mean Sanford and you think he goes there everyday. God and Jesus are a part of your normal vocabulary. You ask us to pray for God and Jesus, rather than pray to them. One day you will know the difference and we will celebrate with you!

You also feel that everyday should be spent hitting golf balls and playing basketball. Another love we hope you keep! You are very special to us!

Love,

Your Mommy