We have in our right—and left—hands . . . Jim and Lois' top ten events of 2007 10. Jim’s speaking at 19 conferences in 2007; Lois' keeping home fires burning Jim spoke at 19 writers’ conferences from Philly to Dallas to Florida to Colorado Springs. He really sensed God’s strength and stamina, but he’s cutting way back in 2008. During those absences, life was interesting for Lois in caring for our chow-shep-sky, Teddy, making a 10 x 20 foot garden plot in the backyard and dealing with a water main break in our front yard. 9. Being too tired to write number nine 8. Growing trust for financial needs With no “real” jobs for the past two and a half years, God has provided work with writing, book editing, speaking, serving as editor of Vista, rep'ing ACW Press, teaching an online writing class for Taylor University, and a brand new book—Communicate to Change Lives. We have still not "broken even," but are "warm and well-fed" for which we give God thanks. 7. Lois’ volunteering for New Hope Hospice It is an honor to journey with patients and families through the most difficult transition and adjustments in life. Feeding patients, filling bird feeders, sharing a crossword puzzle, singing, praying and reading are all part of volunteering, as well as offering bereavement care. One year-long patient’s death was very difficult, then three weeks later a close friend of eighteen years died. 6. Traveling to Zambia with World Hope International We spent two weeks in Zambia witnessing the amazing locally-based work programs so that HIV/AIDS orphans and patients can stay in their own villages for care and comfort rather than being warehoused in orphanages and hospitals. “Opportunity, dignity and hope” aptly describe this empowering organization. Read all about our adventures at Jim and Lois' sites. 4. Tying for number four: each getting a consistent job. In August, Jim started working as part-time Communications Pastor at College Wesleyan Church where he oversees print and online communications. The hours are very flexible to allow writing, speaking and tinkering with his Web site. Lois is scheduled to begin work in January with Marketplace Chaplains where she will provide spiritual guidance and care for the employees and families of Northwood Manor, an assisted living facility. It is an “on-call-as-needed” arrangement. 3. Caring for Hannah two to three days a week What a privilege to be a regular part of our two and a half-year-old granddaughter's life. Lois enjoys swinging and sliding when they go to playgrounds where Hannah’s cautiously adventurous nature tries most anything with success. Asking “Where are the kids?” shows her love for being with/watching other children. Papaw's favorite part was taking Hannah to the bank for "steeckers," going on stroller rides (along with Teddy), and shopping at Marsh with its scaled down shopping carts that she loves to push. 1. Tying for number one: the births of Nathan and Kaylah 11 weeks apart Paul and Amy's Nathaniel (Nathan) Issac was born September 25 at 21 inches long and weighing in at 7 pounds and 8 ounces. Faith and Mike's Kaylah Grace was born December 18 at 21 and 1/4 inches long and weighing in at 8 pounds 1 ounce. Micah and Hannah were born just one week apart. What a joy to watch them grow, develop and learn so much, so quickly. Cutting out and decorating Christmas cookies with Micah was a great treat in many ways—a chef/baker in the making. (Or, with his love for animals, a potential vet or "animal rescuer.") Hannah’s verbal skills potentially make her a teacher, preacher or politician. She quickly went from two-to-three-word sentences to “I’m thirsty for chocolate milk” and “I’ll get it Mommy. My back doesn’t hurt” when great-with-child Faith dropped something. Being grandparents is the best! Any time is a good time to enjoy family and friends. We are grateful for each occasion we had to spend time with you. If our paths did not cross this year, then hopefully they will in 2008. Love and prayers, Jim and Lois