Alaska, Bermuda, and Loving Others

Hello Dear Friends and Family!

It’s time for our bi-monthly update to keep you informed about our lives. Thank you for caring and praying with us!

Alaska and Bermuda

Melanie and I celebrated our 25th anniversary in August! We were graciously given some money to celebrate. As such, we got some great deals and booked a cruise to Alaska for Melanie and Phil. The boys stayed with their grandparents at the farm. It was a wonderful time and very refreshing and rejuvenating! The scenery was majestic… and so was our time together! We were also able to do a family cruise to Bermuda with the boys. The Bermuda cruise was adventurous and fun! David’s highlight was rock climbing. Jonathan’s highlight was the shows. Melanie’s highlight was the family being fully “unplugged.” Phil’s highlight was family time. If you are interested, I made a video of some of our favourite moments, it is 4.5 minutes long. To watch, click below.

Fall Adventures - Loving Others

The Fall has brought many activities and spiritual adventures for our family. The boys are in school, music lessons and swimming lessons. We are starting a Mental Wellness Growth Group in our home and Phil will be taking a Mental Health course to grow in his ability to serve those who are declining in their mental well-being or are in a mental health crisis. Melanie and Phil are also giving leadership to launching a Kids Group at our church that we pray will reach our neighbourhood children! The boys have invited their friends and we will make it a family night of ministry! Jonathan wants to help with some of the talks and David wants to help with the activities. Oh, I can't wait! Pray with us as we seek to make the most of every opportunity (Colossians 4:5)!

Jonathan and I are also getting ready to participate in a biking fundraiser to help our local refugee ministry, Matthew House. Last year Jonathan raised $1000 all by himself! This year we are asking God to surprise us with more than we could dream or imagine! We know with absolute certainty that God loves and cares about the refugees (Psalm 34:18)! We also believe that it is a privilege to play a small part in making a difference (Matthew 25:34-40)! If you would like to learn more or are interested in supporting Jonathan and me you can CLICK HERE. Pray with us that Jonathan's heart may grow BIG in loving others!

There is always more we could share, but we do not want to neglect reminding you that we love and appreciate you! Your prayers and friendship make a difference in our lives. Thank you! If I may be so bold, could you wrap your arms around you? No, seriously. On 3 give yourself a squeeze and we'll do the same. Ready? OK. 1... 2... 3!! SQUEEZE! Ahhhh, it was good for me too! We love you! Be safe! Thank you for being our friends!

Love,

Phil, Melanie, Jonathan, David, and Raya (Cat)