Swensen Family

It has been a whirlwind of travel for us these last couple weeks. This time of furlough has been very beneficial. We are meeting (some for the first time) and getting to know our supporters better. God is lavishing us with His blessings.

We have had opportunities to kick back and have some fun. One of those times was watching a pinewood derby that Jeremiah's friend was a part of. He won 2nd place in speed and design.

We spent a morning at Covenant Shores Retirement Home where Mark spoke at a men's prayer breakfast. After the incredible breakfast, the kids spent time enjoying the green grass and the shore of the lake.

But the highlight of that morning was definitely the time spent talking with a couple of the residents. The lives they have lived were facinating. The children enjoyed the "grandparent" treatment. Best cookies and hot cocoa in town.

We had a fabulous time visiting with a supporting family who live on a farm. The kids got to collect eggs

play on a tire swing

and climb a mountain of hay.

Katelyn has been the most endearing social bug I've ever seen. She has latched on to and loved on everyone that will let her. She is soaking up every ounce of attention she can get out of those we visit.

One of the many outings with Papa Swensen was spent at a navel museum. The kids had a blast using their imagination in one of the hands on displays.
Another lasting memory for our kids is the time we spent with supporters in Oregon where Jeremiah got to shoot off a rocket several times

and Neakita had her wish of petting a horse come true. Her dream is to own one of her own.
Our time with friends, family, and supporters has been wonderful. We have enjoyed every moment with everyone we have been with. We pray we have been as much of a blessing to each person as they have been to us, for we feel we have been showered with love by everyone. Our schedule is filling up fast and we have much traveling ahead of us. Please pray that God keeps us in the safety of His hands.

Our health has been good. We attack any bit of sickness that tries to overtake us and nip it in the bud. And try to get the sleep we need to stay healthy which has meant not setting an alarm unless absolutely necessary. Please continue to cover us with prayer in this area. Please pray for Mark’s back, he has had some slight discomfort, which he thinks is from all the driving.

School is going better than one could expect, although with all the moving around from one place to another, it is getting harder and harder to accomplish what I want to. God has given me much encouragement through others in this area and I praise Him for giving me these boosts of confidence.