Later, Ben and Greg traveled up to Michigan after Greg's interview and Ben's work. My sister, Gayle, her husband, Glenn, and their family were visiting from New Mexico, and we celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary with a picnic lunch and a special cake.
We also enjoyed spending some time with Gordy's parents.
In August, we were privileged to bring resources to the Addison County Fair and Field Days, representing Answers in Genesis and the Creation Museum. Both Greg and Stephen alternately helped "man" the booth. Gordy had specifically desired to offer solid biblical material at this Fair, so this indeed was an answer to our prayers.
The last day, Vt. Governor Jim Douglas came by our booth, and his wife took a photo of him with our family. Gov. Douglas was the one who vetoed the "same sex marriage bill" a couple of years ago, but unfortunately, his veto was over-ruled. We expressed our thanks to him for his effort in standing up for what is "right". By the way, AiG has published an article and a booklet that pertains to this subject called, "How Should a Christian Respond to Gay Marriage". To read this article, click: http://www.answersingenesis.org/articles/nab2/christian-respond-gay-marriage
Also during the week, both Greg and Ben were able to exhibit a painting of their choice from their 2009-10 art collection.
On August 18th, without any warning, Ben jumped up and appeared from the back of Stephen's pick-up truck. Mom screamed with both shock and delight (and immediately began crying). Barrett, Ben's dog, jumped all over him, and both Stephen and Ben laughed together in victory as they had accomplished the "surprise visit" that Ben had desired. Greg said that he knew that something was up.
After Dad arrived home, he was equally surprised. When he first caught sight of Ben sitting at our kitchen counter, Gordy stuck out his hand and excitedly said, HEY! HOW ARE YOU DOING? For those of us who usually see Gordy as calm and collected, it was fun to see him surprised! What a wonderful reunion we had as a family! Nicholas, Beth and Audrie joined us for a picnic one evening, and we were able to take a few family photos.
Also, Ben was happy to spend some time with his friends once again.
September/October
We had a yard sale over Labor Day weekend, then at the end of the week we headed up to Old Orchard Beach, Maine for a time of rest and relaxation for two days and two nights. While Greg and Stephen enjoyed playing ocean side sports & spending time with their friends, Gordy and I took some brisk walks on the beach (stopping to take pictures & collect sand-dollars), visited with friends, and exercised by swimming in our motel pool.
Prior to our trip, we made reservations for a schooner ride on "The Olad" in Camden harbor, so on the 2nd morning, Gordy and I drove 2 hours north for our ocean adventure. There were only 12 of us on this 57 ft. vessel, and it was a delightful new experience.
On September 11th, my Dad (at almost 86) was baptized up at his Michigan cottage with my two brothers at his side. Our family was pleased to rejoice with him in this news, and he felt a great sense of peace and joy through this experience.
Gordy led another AiG course in mid-September called, "Genesis of a Legacy". This study focusing on "raising Godly children in an ungodly world" lasted for 11-weeks and many of us found it to be very helpful. We had the opportunity to use the Cornwall Town Hall for these weekly sessions.
October 1st-5th, Gordy and I took our belated 30th anniversary trip to Acadia National Park. While in Maine, we spent a day and night in Camden, and 3 nights in Bar Harbor. We relaxed and enjoyed our time together, taking in the sites and sounds of the island and ocean. One late afternoon, we took a schooner ride at sunset on the Margaret Todd, a 151 ft., 4-masted windjammer. Our time on the island was way too short, but it was a wonderful trip that we will never forget. We again thank our family and friends for making this special trip possible.
The weekend after we arrived home, we traveled over to the Word of Life Inn in Schroon Lake, NY. Ken Ham was there for a conference and because of our VCC training, we were able to assist with the book tables, along with another couple from Georgia. During the weekend we had the opportunity to meet several other Christians with the desire to support biblical authority.
The summer market ended the last weekend of October. For the past several years, Greg has been my main "pie-crust roller-outer", so we have benefited greatly from his patient help and artistic designs on each pie. This fall, Greg was able to raise over $600 towards the publication of his book through these pie sales and we thank God for supplying for his need.
November/December
Stephen began selling his "pastured lamb products" at the winter market. He sells this specialty meat under the name of Shepherd's Boy Farm. Many people in the Middlebury area enjoy lamb so he hopes this will be a good business endeavor.
It was our delight to have 25 people (from 12 different towns) attend a "Couple's Harvest Gathering" the first Saturday of November. A new friend/pastor that we met at the Fair gave the devotional, and we all experienced a sense of uniting together as Christians for a common purpose.
Every Saturday in November was filled with work day projects, getting ready for the Live Nativity. The young men built a couple of new sets, and some of the gals helped with raking, stacking wood, and clean-up around the yard. One Saturday a few girls gathered to assemble luminaries. Two sisters even helped at a late fall yard sale with the "proceeds" benefiting the cost of some props, etc. Nicholas allowed the guys to use his tractor, and that helped with one of the projects.
We were pleased to have my niece, Jennie Joy spend a few days with us in mid-November. Jennie has spent the past 2 years in Sudan, Africa. It was wonderful to have some time to visit with her again.
During Jennie's visit, I got a "brave streak" and I asked Stephen for a horsie ride. I hadn't ridden a horse in over 31 years, so it was fun to see Stephen and Greg smile. They had never seen me on a live horse before.
We had the opportunity of representing AiG through a video conference at the Panton Community Baptist Church the end of November. There Gordy and I were pleased to meet several folks with open hearts to standing on the authority of God's word.
Greg was interviewed and hired to work for the museum in the role of "zookeeper" just before Thanksgiving. We are delighted to know that God has opened the doors for him to work in this ministry.
Late Thanksgiving morning and early afternoon, with Nicholas' help (and his tractor), the guys brought down the remaining winter firewood from our woodlot. This was a great help to us as our wood supply was inconveniently located on the other side of the ledge. Meanwhile, Beth, Audrie and I made cookies in the kitchen. :)
Early in the morning, on November 28th, Nicholas called and told us of the birth of his son, Noah Ryan, a 10 lb. baby boy. We are thrilled that six-year-old Audrie now has a brother. What a blessing to us all!
When a friend from Michigan learned that both Ben and Greg were leaving home this year she said, "Two boys leave and you have another to keep you going". That was a very sweet thought, Carmen! Thanks. :)
We also wanted to mention here that many of you helped & supported our 2 sons this year with their new jobs, moves, etc. We sincerely thank you for extending your love and prayers. It meant a great deal to them (and to us). Bless you. :)
Stephen began working at Champlain Orchards at the end of November. At present, he is training to be a "pruner" and his overseers have been encouraged by his progress. Stephen really enjoys the work.
The first weekend of December brought Live Nativity 2010 (our 4th year). We are grateful for the 34 cast members who gave of themselves to make these 2 presentations possible. We pray that the Lord will always use our efforts to bring folks to Himself.
Meanwhile, down at the Creation Museum, Ben kept busy each weekend reenacting as a shepherd in "Christmas Town", a free live nativity for the public. This year a total of 22,110 people came to this event. We praise God for allowing Ben to be a part of this ministry.
As we mentioned in our letter, Ben's artwork was used in a new 32-page booklet called, "Uncovering the Real Nativity". The museum also made "Prince of Peace" Christmas cards to sell online & at the bookstore, and banners to hang outside the museum from Ben's work.
To order cards, click: http://www.answersingenesis.org/PublicStore/product/Prince-of-Peace,6717,257.aspx To order copies of the booklet, click: http://www.answersingenesis.org/PublicStore/product/Uncovering-the-Real-Nativity,6735,228.aspx
On the evening of Ben's 25th birthday, our family and many kind friends joined together for a special "farewell gathering" for Greg at the Cornwall Town Hall. Tables were decorated with fresh-cut greens & brightly shining candles, warm memories were shared and delicious food was served. After Gordy spoke, read some scripture and letters from loved ones, Greg responded graciously, sharing his heart and asking for our prayers. After others had shared uplifting words, the men (old and young) gathered around Greg and placed their hands upon him as they tenderly prayed. It was a meaningful and a memorable evening for all.
My Aunt Arlene Telfer passed away on December 16th at age 90. Our last visit with her was when we were in Michigan for Christmas a year ago. We have many fond memories of Aunt Arlene being at our family gatherings, and she will truly be missed.
Ben was able to fly back home the week before Christmas. The days were full of busy activities as our sons played hockey and went ice-skating with friends, filmed scenes from our Live Nativity for 2 nights, joined us for caroling, etc. As the weekend neared, the "flu bug" (with some fevers of over 104 degrees) caught up with all three of our sons (and Dad too), thus making it a very different ending to our anticipated Christmas celebrations.
Several days later, Greg and Ben were finally well enough to leave for Kentucky 3 days after their original plan, but the Lord was merciful in blessing them with safe travels.
This Christmas season, we have been happy to receive so many
pretty cards, photos, and informative letters from all of you. They presently decorate our kitchen entry-ways and bring cheer to our hearts each time we pass by.
Yes, this year has been busy with lots of studies, travel, changes, gatherings, presentations, more changes, and goodbyes. It has been full of sentiments and sharing, holding on to and letting go.
Time has gone by so fast. Where have the years gone? Three of our 4 sons are now living on their own. We can't go back and relive those family times, homeschooling days, etc., no matter how much we wish we could. None of us can make the past "picture perfect", but we know that our Lord has been very gracious, regardless of ourselves. He has been so merciful to us!
May we continue to support, encourage, and faithfully pray for one another. May He continue to give us His grace as we seek Him & His ways. May we each bloom where He has planted us, and may we always be a good light for Him.
Although we're now miles apart, we're still a family.
With our love,
Gordy, Valerie and Stephen
The last day, Vt. Governor Jim Douglas came by our booth, and his wife took a photo of him with our family. Gov. Douglas was the one who vetoed the "same sex marriage bill" a couple of years ago, but unfortunately, his veto was over-ruled. We expressed our thanks to him for his effort in standing up for what is "right". By the way, AiG has published an article and a booklet that pertains to this subject called, "How Should a Christian Respond to Gay Marriage". To read this article, click: http://www.answersingenesis.org/articles/nab2/christian-respond-gay-marriage
Also during the week, both Greg and Ben were able to exhibit a painting of their choice from their 2009-10 art collection.
On August 18th, without any warning, Ben jumped up and appeared from the back of Stephen's pick-up truck. Mom screamed with both shock and delight (and immediately began crying). Barrett, Ben's dog, jumped all over him, and both Stephen and Ben laughed together in victory as they had accomplished the "surprise visit" that Ben had desired. Greg said that he knew that something was up.
After Dad arrived home, he was equally surprised. When he first caught sight of Ben sitting at our kitchen counter, Gordy stuck out his hand and excitedly said, HEY! HOW ARE YOU DOING? For those of us who usually see Gordy as calm and collected, it was fun to see him surprised! What a wonderful reunion we had as a family! Nicholas, Beth and Audrie joined us for a picnic one evening, and we were able to take a few family photos.
Also, Ben was happy to spend some time with his friends once again.
September/October
We had a yard sale over Labor Day weekend, then at the end of the week we headed up to Old Orchard Beach, Maine for a time of rest and relaxation for two days and two nights. While Greg and Stephen enjoyed playing ocean side sports & spending time with their friends, Gordy and I took some brisk walks on the beach (stopping to take pictures & collect sand-dollars), visited with friends, and exercised by swimming in our motel pool.
Prior to our trip, we made reservations for a schooner ride on "The Olad" in Camden harbor, so on the 2nd morning, Gordy and I drove 2 hours north for our ocean adventure. There were only 12 of us on this 57 ft. vessel, and it was a delightful new experience.
On September 11th, my Dad (at almost 86) was baptized up at his Michigan cottage with my two brothers at his side. Our family was pleased to rejoice with him in this news, and he felt a great sense of peace and joy through this experience.
Gordy led another AiG course in mid-September called, "Genesis of a Legacy". This study focusing on "raising Godly children in an ungodly world" lasted for 11-weeks and many of us found it to be very helpful. We had the opportunity to use the Cornwall Town Hall for these weekly sessions.
October 1st-5th, Gordy and I took our belated 30th anniversary trip to Acadia National Park. While in Maine, we spent a day and night in Camden, and 3 nights in Bar Harbor. We relaxed and enjoyed our time together, taking in the sites and sounds of the island and ocean. One late afternoon, we took a schooner ride at sunset on the Margaret Todd, a 151 ft., 4-masted windjammer. Our time on the island was way too short, but it was a wonderful trip that we will never forget. We again thank our family and friends for making this special trip possible.
The weekend after we arrived home, we traveled over to the Word of Life Inn in Schroon Lake, NY. Ken Ham was there for a conference and because of our VCC training, we were able to assist with the book tables, along with another couple from Georgia. During the weekend we had the opportunity to meet several other Christians with the desire to support biblical authority.
The summer market ended the last weekend of October. For the past several years, Greg has been my main "pie-crust roller-outer", so we have benefited greatly from his patient help and artistic designs on each pie. This fall, Greg was able to raise over $600 towards the publication of his book through these pie sales and we thank God for supplying for his need.
November/December
Stephen began selling his "pastured lamb products" at the winter market. He sells this specialty meat under the name of Shepherd's Boy Farm. Many people in the Middlebury area enjoy lamb so he hopes this will be a good business endeavor.
It was our delight to have 25 people (from 12 different towns) attend a "Couple's Harvest Gathering" the first Saturday of November. A new friend/pastor that we met at the Fair gave the devotional, and we all experienced a sense of uniting together as Christians for a common purpose.
Every Saturday in November was filled with work day projects, getting ready for the Live Nativity. The young men built a couple of new sets, and some of the gals helped with raking, stacking wood, and clean-up around the yard. One Saturday a few girls gathered to assemble luminaries. Two sisters even helped at a late fall yard sale with the "proceeds" benefiting the cost of some props, etc. Nicholas allowed the guys to use his tractor, and that helped with one of the projects.
We were pleased to have my niece, Jennie Joy spend a few days with us in mid-November. Jennie has spent the past 2 years in Sudan, Africa. It was wonderful to have some time to visit with her again.
During Jennie's visit, I got a "brave streak" and I asked Stephen for a horsie ride. I hadn't ridden a horse in over 31 years, so it was fun to see Stephen and Greg smile. They had never seen me on a live horse before.
We had the opportunity of representing AiG through a video conference at the Panton Community Baptist Church the end of November. There Gordy and I were pleased to meet several folks with open hearts to standing on the authority of God's word.
Greg was interviewed and hired to work for the museum in the role of "zookeeper" just before Thanksgiving. We are delighted to know that God has opened the doors for him to work in this ministry.
Late Thanksgiving morning and early afternoon, with Nicholas' help (and his tractor), the guys brought down the remaining winter firewood from our woodlot. This was a great help to us as our wood supply was inconveniently located on the other side of the ledge. Meanwhile, Beth, Audrie and I made cookies in the kitchen. :)
Early in the morning, on November 28th, Nicholas called and told us of the birth of his son, Noah Ryan, a 10 lb. baby boy. We are thrilled that six-year-old Audrie now has a brother. What a blessing to us all!
When a friend from Michigan learned that both Ben and Greg were leaving home this year she said, "Two boys leave and you have another to keep you going". That was a very sweet thought, Carmen! Thanks. :)
We also wanted to mention here that many of you helped & supported our 2 sons this year with their new jobs, moves, etc. We sincerely thank you for extending your love and prayers. It meant a great deal to them (and to us). Bless you. :)
Stephen began working at Champlain Orchards at the end of November. At present, he is training to be a "pruner" and his overseers have been encouraged by his progress. Stephen really enjoys the work.
The first weekend of December brought Live Nativity 2010 (our 4th year). We are grateful for the 34 cast members who gave of themselves to make these 2 presentations possible. We pray that the Lord will always use our efforts to bring folks to Himself.
Meanwhile, down at the Creation Museum, Ben kept busy each weekend reenacting as a shepherd in "Christmas Town", a free live nativity for the public. This year a total of 22,110 people came to this event. We praise God for allowing Ben to be a part of this ministry.
As we mentioned in our letter, Ben's artwork was used in a new 32-page booklet called, "Uncovering the Real Nativity". The museum also made "Prince of Peace" Christmas cards to sell online & at the bookstore, and banners to hang outside the museum from Ben's work.
To order cards, click: http://www.answersingenesis.org/PublicStore/product/Prince-of-Peace,6717,257.aspx To order copies of the booklet, click: http://www.answersingenesis.org/PublicStore/product/Uncovering-the-Real-Nativity,6735,228.aspx
On the evening of Ben's 25th birthday, our family and many kind friends joined together for a special "farewell gathering" for Greg at the Cornwall Town Hall. Tables were decorated with fresh-cut greens & brightly shining candles, warm memories were shared and delicious food was served. After Gordy spoke, read some scripture and letters from loved ones, Greg responded graciously, sharing his heart and asking for our prayers. After others had shared uplifting words, the men (old and young) gathered around Greg and placed their hands upon him as they tenderly prayed. It was a meaningful and a memorable evening for all.
My Aunt Arlene Telfer passed away on December 16th at age 90. Our last visit with her was when we were in Michigan for Christmas a year ago. We have many fond memories of Aunt Arlene being at our family gatherings, and she will truly be missed.
Ben was able to fly back home the week before Christmas. The days were full of busy activities as our sons played hockey and went ice-skating with friends, filmed scenes from our Live Nativity for 2 nights, joined us for caroling, etc. As the weekend neared, the "flu bug" (with some fevers of over 104 degrees) caught up with all three of our sons (and Dad too), thus making it a very different ending to our anticipated Christmas celebrations.
Several days later, Greg and Ben were finally well enough to leave for Kentucky 3 days after their original plan, but the Lord was merciful in blessing them with safe travels.
This Christmas season, we have been happy to receive so many
pretty cards, photos, and informative letters from all of you. They presently decorate our kitchen entry-ways and bring cheer to our hearts each time we pass by.
Yes, this year has been busy with lots of studies, travel, changes, gatherings, presentations, more changes, and goodbyes. It has been full of sentiments and sharing, holding on to and letting go.
Time has gone by so fast. Where have the years gone? Three of our 4 sons are now living on their own. We can't go back and relive those family times, homeschooling days, etc., no matter how much we wish we could. None of us can make the past "picture perfect", but we know that our Lord has been very gracious, regardless of ourselves. He has been so merciful to us!
May we continue to support, encourage, and faithfully pray for one another. May He continue to give us His grace as we seek Him & His ways. May we each bloom where He has planted us, and may we always be a good light for Him.
Although we're now miles apart, we're still a family. With our love,
Gordy, Valerie and Stephen
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