It’s hard to believe that we are already halfway through November, and over ½ of the way through our time here.
Jason and I celebrated our 15th wedding anniversary this past weekend. We stayed in Rooi Els at our friend’s cottage on the beach. It was lovely! We had beautiful weather and plenty of time for relaxation and reflexion on our years together. Jason and I discussed how grateful we are to be in South Africa and how thankful that we didn’t let our fears stop us from being here. It’s hard to imagine missing out on all of the many blessings enjoyed and lessons learned.
We came back Sunday night for Bible study. The study is focusing on the Christian World View and how we are the image bearers of Christ. Much of the talk last night was on the fruits of the Spirit (the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control… Gal. 5:22) and how each of them begins with our attitude, which I had never thought of before. We also looked at the cooperation of the Spirit, (2 Peter 1: 5-8) and how it is so essential to an abundant life. This study is very encouraging as well as convicting.
Our email is out again. It may not be a quick fix this time, we will just have to wait and see. For now we are emailing at a friend’s house. Please be patient with us as we work to resolve the problem.
In other news…
The work team has left and we are busy cleaning and getting things back to “normal”
The church construction is coming along well
We continue to make new friends and grow deeper relationships… praise God!
Brittany had a nice weekend with friends… lots of laughing, sharing, talking and getting to better know each other
Chandler also had a nice weekend with friends…lots of swimming, playing with snakes (their new pets) and more swimming. Oh, and a broken toe, poor guy
Please continue to keep the Weinbergs in your prayers. Their son in-law has been given 6 months to live and is not doing well with the chemo. Pray for wisdom (in knowing when they should return home) and peace (being so far from home when their daughter is going through something so difficult.) We are so thankful that we can be here to support them. Please pray that we will have encouraging words and actions.
Sending love and hugs your way!
In His Service,
JSBC
Rick said,
November 18, 2008 at 5:09 pm
What wonderful reflections and how caringly written….it is clear that you understand what you are writting about…..I am so glad that you are experiencing life in this wonderful way….I will keep everyone there in my prayers….and congratulations on 15 marvelous years together! You two ROCK! Love you! Dad XXOO
P.S., Chandler! How’s the toe! What on earth happened????!! Did a snake bite it!??
Hi Brittany!!! 
Harry/Cindy said,
November 19, 2008 at 5:13 pm
Hi Guys -
We miss you lots, but support you in your endeavors! You have been married 15 years! We congratulate you! How nice. You guys have had an experience of a lifetime these last few months. Thanks for sharing some of it with us! We Love you!
Rick said,
November 21, 2008 at 2:57 pm
What a great picture of you two! It didn’t come through the first time I opened and commented on this particular blog….you look marvelous, well and happy!!
I love that! Love, Dad 
Mom/Grandma Susie said,
November 22, 2008 at 12:19 am
Frustrating about your email problems (your anniversary note is on your email when you can open it) but liked what Chandler had to say too that keeps things in perspective.
Your Thanksgiving plans sound very similar to what we used to do when we lived in Africa — all the Americans got together for a service at the cathedral, our school choir performed at it. I know it will be a very special Thanksgiving for you there.
I need to know what your street address is for directions to give our travel agent. I have asked in an email and am going to try here too and hope you can give us an answer asap. We are close to confirming everything for our trip.
Love, Mom/Grandma Susie
Kevin and Jennifer Box said,
November 22, 2008 at 4:05 pm
Happy anniversary and congratulations!!!! Jennifer and I just celebrated our 2nd with more love in our hearts for God and each other than ever before. I am sure you are experiencing the same by all the wonders expressed on this blog. I am grateful that you are having such an opportunity to see what can be done in the Lord and look forward to what that will bring in your future. Anything is possible! Keep blogging and we’ll keep watching. Mike looks bigger than ever and Brittany looks as if she smiles any brighter, she might PoP! Blessings to you all!
Wayne and Judy said,
November 23, 2008 at 1:15 pm
Hi, Now, just how did Chandler break his toe? Ouch!!!! It sounds like you had a very nice 15th anniversary. One to be remembered forever, I’d say. It’s wonderful the kids have friends to be with and enjoy. Now, snakes….goodness, wouldn’t be my choice for a pet! Have a wonderful Thanksgiving. We miss you and love you.
Wayne and Judy
Mom/Nana said,
November 24, 2008 at 10:59 pm
Hey! I’m in Sioux Falls, SD. Not quite as exotic as Africa. Your picture looks great. How did you break your toe, Chandler, and how is it feeling now. Getting better, I hope. I’m making pickle wraps for Thanksgiving, Chandler. I’ll be happy to make some in January when you come back.
B,. how are you? Are there any foods you are missing that you can’t get a hold of in Paarl? Did you ever get a hold of the young man you guys met in Yellowstone last summer?
Love and miss all of you,
Happy Thanksgiving!!
Mom/Nana
Harry/Cindy said,
November 26, 2008 at 1:44 pm
Hi Guys! When I opened your blog today, I see this beautiful picture of you two! I just wanted to say Happy Thanksgiving! I know you will have a nice day with your friends there. We will think about you tomorrow with much love!