Some Updates

I just realized I have never given an update on Nathan's last dental visit with the results of the biopsy. The oral surgeon checked things out and Nathan seems to be healing nicely, but a hole still remains which is not expected to heal completely for three months or so. He has to carefully clean it out daily so there is no food residue trapped inside of it! Yuck! We were a little startled about the results of the biopsy, but we know God has everything under control. The type of cyst Nathan had can be a symptom of Basal Cell Carcinoma Syndrome, a topical skin cancer. The doctor sent a copy of the biopsy results to our family physician, and suggested that he see him in regard to this. I have an appointment set sometime in August when he will be checked for this cancerous condition. On a somewhat positive note, the doctor did say that of all the cancers, this is the one to get if you're going to get cancer since it can be treated and doesn't affect the liver, heart, lungs, and so forth. The oral surgeon said Nathan's shoulders, back, and temples need to be watched carefully for any signs of cancerous spots throughout his life. He also mentioned that often a person who has this sort of cancer has extra ribs and a bigger forehead (which Nate does not have). Anyway, please remember this in prayer when you think of us.

On another note, James has recently consented to being the pastor of a little country church about ten miles from our home. He has felt that God would have him pastor again for the past couple of years or so, but with older children it is difficult to suddenly pack your bags and move when they have jobs and commitments. This opportunity opened up and we feel it is God's way of showing us where He wants us. Please pray for us as we follow God's leadership in shepherding this little flock and gaining new souls for Him at Voice of Victory Bible Methodist Church in Waynesfield, Ohio. We want to lead lost souls to the One who can provide forgiveness, peace, joy, and hope. Our first service is this evening's Prayermeeting service. We are excited about what God has in store for the little church there!

Vacation = Family + Fun + Memories

Christianna Joy at Tahquamenon Falls State Park, Paradise, MI

Nathan by the Upper Falls

James and I in front of Upper Falls

Joshua and Daddy

Misty photo of Upper Falls

Another view

My attempt to get a night time picture of Mackinac Bridge ~ Did not work!

Enjoying the bay in Petoskey, MI

Nathan relaxing along the bay

Big Jackson Tabernacle, a church my Grandfather started when he was around 90 yrs. of age
Paris, MI

A sign near the church typical of my Grandfather's advertising (He probably had this made)

My Great-Grandfather and Grandmother's old homeplace where my mom was born
Grandpa and Grandma Draggoo

Typical Horse Carriage ride on Mackinac Island, MI

View from the island

Beautiful sunset from a free Vesper Cruise we took on July 4th

Nathan at sunset

God's gorgeous design

Christianna Joy enjoying the boat cruise

Yellow parachute is coming from Nathan's boat where he will parasail ~ ScArY!!!!

Evangelyn enjoying the ride

Possibly Nathan parasailing (3 were on his boat ~ not sure when he was up there)

Sault Ste. Marie, MI locks

Ship going through the locks

Again!

Repeat

Another attempt at a nighttime photo

Crossing the Bridge

Upper Peninsula landscape

Tahquamenon Falls State Park

Lower Falls area

Again

Our three oldest (Wish it would have turned out better)

Beautiful!

My Darling and Handsome Sweetheart!

Lower Falls

God's Creation

Joshua enjoying the beauty

Misty view of Upper Falls

Better view

Climbing down 94 steps to view Upper Falls up close

Closer view

Joshua enthralled with God's awesome creation

James and I in front of Arch Rock on Mackinac Island, MI

A small cave on the Island

The family

View from the bay at Petoskey

Mackinac Bridge

Mmmm .... yummy Mackinac Island fudge
Joanne's Chocolate Peanut Butter is the BEST!!! Delicious! Murdick's is also tasty!

Typical Mackinac Island view ~ no cars here ~ only horses and bikes

Another view from the Island

Last week was an enjoyable week for our family to get away from the normal routine of life. We spent our time in the northern part of lower Michigan, as well as the Upper Peninsula. This area of America definitely shows God's beautiful handiwork. I love it up there, and so does the family. Enjoy the pictures and take a trip there sometime. You will not be disappointed! (Sorry the pictures are so mixed up, but that is how they uploaded.)