Back to School and Yet Not

Ethan and Megan are on the verge of completing their first week of school as I write this. They started Monday, August 13. They were excited to get started because they're using new curriculum this year that promises to be more interesting than last year's. Instead of being entirely text-oriented, this year's curriculum uses engaging videos to teach everything from science to Bible to handwriting. That makes Christy's involvement a lot less intense, relieving a lot of the stress that was ever-present last year. She's still there for the kids when they have questions or need clarification, but she doesn't have to be there every second of every school day. I'm very glad for her. For these reasons, this year promises to be better. However, the kids still long to be with their friends at Hinkson Christian Academy in Moscow. We know that, especially for Ethan, the lack of regular contact with these important people in his life, it is difficult for them to be content where we are. Please pray for Ethan and Megan to have the relationships with friends they need. I know Mom & Dad can't provide everything they need for their development and contentment. Thanks!

The "and Yet Not" part of the title has to do with our future as English teachers. As most of you know, Christy and I (& Liz) taught English several nights a week at Phoenix School last year. The building in which we taught is owned by the city, and the officials have recently determined that they can use it for something more profitable next year. Therefore, Phoenix School is now permanently closed and we will not be able to teach there this coming school year. That news made us sad because it was such a wonderful opportunity to develop good relationships with young people that we will miss. We are talking and praying about some alternative activities that will allow us to continue working with these students. Please pray with us about this. Thanks again!

Patrick

Pictures 1 & 2 - Ethan & Megan have already gotten through their first week of school. Here they are working hard.

Picture 3 - Here is a picture of me with 2 of my English students. I have been able to strike up a friendship with Dima (left) outside the classroom and look forward to seeing how that develops this coming year.