Natasha at the Eagles Nest! The Eagles Nest was where Hitlers Vacation home was. (the home is obviously not in this photo)

Laura recently said to me that I don’t show enough family pics on the blog. I apologize for I have been so focused on the building project and it’s such a hassle to be able to upload pics due to server problems that I just don’t get it done. Well, in Laura’s most recent “howdies” that she just sent out, she told of our most recent trip. I’ll condense some of what she said but give you the gist, as well as a few pics.

Living on the mission field at times can make you remember all you are missing out on. We in NO WAY want anyone feeling sorry for us, but at the same time feel that UNDER GOD it is our responsibility to help our children make up for some of these “losses” when we are able. Believe me there are MANY more benefits than losses to living on the mission field, I’m only speaking of the times when we see that our children’s hearts are sad b/c of not having the “normal” life rewards for their achievements. One of those opportunities afforded itself while Daryl’s parents were here. Our daughter Natasha finishes the 8th grade this spring and in Christian day schools across America that is a special time of celebration and graduation looking forward to the High School years. Natasha had so looked forward to “marching” with her class for years, but that was no longer possible. After much prayer, we decided that she needed a class trip, beyond description, and what better place to do this, than Europe?!

Natasha’s favorite subject is history not to mention she’s really good at Geography as well. (She must have gotten that trait passed down from her Papa or her Gramp, for it skipped her Mommy, totally! J) With all of that said, we left here to take a fast trip around this part of Europe. Her Daddy, who is a former history teacher, did an excellent job of planning her trip.

Thanks Mom and Dad for all of your help in making this happen.

Congratulations Natasha! We are so proud of you!

"God never asks us to give something up without filling that void with something much better!"