School uniforms

Elizabeth, Daniel and Rebekah are attending what could best be described in U.S. terms as a charter school. They all enjoy their studies and especially the new friends that they have made. Here Elizabeth is sporting her nifty school uniform along with her friend, Paulina. Elizabeth has a different colored collar because she couldn't find the "official" shirt on this particular day. As a matter of fact I still think that the shirt is missing in action. Not a big deal though. The uniforms are basically a tool for "uniformity" and identification with the particular educational institution. One bonus that we have seen is that the use of these uniforms cuts down on the wear and tear of their regular clothes. It also is nice to not hear "I don't have anything to wear today....." (that is unless they lose part, or all, of their uniform)

Sisters

Chilean Independence Day!

This past September 18th, the country of Chile celebrated birthday number 199. Yes, next year will be the big bicentennial. I was just four years old back when that number came around in the U.S.A. I don't remember much about that year's celebration but I vaguely recall that it was quite an important event.
Independence Day down here is celebrated by all, in one way or another. Everyone is obligated to fly a flag or face a fine for not having done so. Barbacues, parades, and traditional dancing are the norm. It is quite a festive time. This year we had the opportunity to go to a traditional party at the school that Elizabeth, Daniel and Rebekah are attending. It just so happened that the first dancers called out were our two oldest, Elizabeth and Daniel. They surprised us with both their bravery to dance a "not-so-familiar-to-them" number and to do it with such skill. I shouldn't be so surprised though, after all they are Chileans, it is their country and their culture. So in other words, they must have gotten the skills from their mom.

Trouble in Paradise

Please pray for a serious situation that has recently developed down here. Two church families are involved in a dispute that could bring shame to the testimony of the gospel. We have encouraged them to seek peace, forgiveness and reconciliation; remembering that the Father has offered us the same through faith in His Son Jesus Christ. So again, please pray that our God would somehow be glorified through the outcome of this situation. Thanks, and I'll keep you posted.