greetings to everyone.
Our latest family news is that our son Timothy is off to college at Liberty University. He received a scholarship, is moved into a dormitory, and is starting classes. He says the food there is great. He seems to be doing well as he starts a new stage in education. We're quite proud of the steps he is taking.
The girls are in high school and involved with activities. Vera has gotten involved with art and drama. Diana is looking at sports. They stay in touch with Tim, as well as their friends back in Russia, and are making new friends here.
Cecil is serving as the Missionary in Residence at the Native American Bible School in Shannon, NC ( http://nabc.edu ). He is teaching a basic computer class. He also lives in the men's dormitory and keeps and eye on things there, and helps with the regular chapel meetings. He especially enjoys updating and debugging the computer lab. After the hurricane the grass is growing like weeds, and so he's been spending time on the big riding mower to help keep the grounds looking good.
Tonya is doing her best to keep the family in line and spends a few hours a week teaching English to immigrants at a local community college. She has formed some friendships there and using her gifts with friendship outreach.
It seems international conflict has been an issue in the Russian news lately. They are doing civil defense drills in case they are attacked https://themoscowtimes.com/news/russia-launches-exercises-to-test-populations-readiness-for-external-aggression-63042 and https://themoscowtimes.com/news/russian-media-whips-up-us-war-scare-with-bomb-shelter-food-tips-61124
Do hope things calm down in in regards to international tensions.
Hurricane Florence came through our area and knocked down some limbs. Power was out at the Bible college for a few days. Convoy of Hope came and distributed tons of aid to local communities.
Here are some students and staff (and their kids) from N.A.B.C. who helped Convoy of Hope with the aid distribution.
Word from our friends in Russia is that Hope Center is busy with activity going on daily. The building at the Dacha is fine, but being used only occasionally.
Please pray for us as we settle into the new normal.
Please pray for Russia, as our hearts are still there as well.
Blessings to you,
From Cecil & Tonya
