Farewell to Tarta

I have heard that God puts friends in our life for a season... it is probably true for pets as well.  Two weeks ago our neighbor decided that it was time for Tarta (tortoise in Portuguese) to be moved to a wildlife sanctuary.  Below is a pictorial of his time with us.  

The first month here

A love-hate relationship with Barnabas

The face of determination

Close the gate quick... he moves fast!

There is no relaxation when Tarta is around

Not happy unless he has something to push around!

Warming up in the sun

3 years later - My how he has grown!

Good-bye pic with Anke and Sarah

Farewell Tarta... may you find peace in your new home!

Family Camp

Final YFC event of 2012

Club 4:13 Family Camp

The first weekend of December was an opportunity for the Holy Spirit to repair relationships between Club 4:13 students and their mothers.  

Arrival

Welcome!!

Opening icebreaker was a challenge to see who could keep from smiling the longest... obviously I lost right out of the gate!

Don't smile...

Really... DON'T SMILE!

Our first experiential activity provided opportunities for parents to trust their kids and practice listening.

Do you trust me?

Watch your head!

Working together to solve a puzzle upside down, with the realization that your can't force pieces to fit that don't belong.  Mother's learned that God has a perfect place purpose for each child and they can't force them to be someone they are not.  

Be careful or the pieces will break!

While the youth learned about conflict resolution, the parents practiced "listening to your child's feelings"

The "Slippery Slope"

Role playing everyday conflict situations brought practice for new skills learned.

Time to eat!!

Rain kept us inside for the afternoon

A talent show brought laughters and smiles.  

It's not a movie without popcorn and cool drink!

Everyone needs a hug!

Up early for some exercise!

Sunshine allowed for outdoor teachings

What does your body language say?

Appreciating God's creation as we hike

Waiting for the moms to catch up!

Group photo (and time to catch our breath)

What did we learn this weekend?

I can glorify God through conflict

Listening to my child's feelings show love

Chief Invigilator

Matric Exams are well underway...

And the Western Cape Department sent gentle reminders of the no-no's

Nathan has an excellent team working with him to ensure all students follow the rules.  This month is going to fly by.

Baptism

The "Foundations Class" that started in August culminated in a baptism this afternoon for 4 members of the Island Church.  

"For by one Spirit we are baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one spirit." (1 Corinthians 12:13)  

"For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ, have put on Christ" (Ephesians 3:27) Agnes, Leon, Aaron and James... one with Christ!

Ending the fellowship with Words for each of those baptized...

A big "Thank You" to Louise and George for hospitality extra-ordinair!  May the Lord bless you according to His glorious riches!!

WOW!! I can't believe it has been 7 weeks since we last posted a blog.  We have been VERY busy... so let's get started.  Nathan spent the last 3 weeks facilitating Grade 9 Assessment tests.  10 schools and 2,800 students later... finished till next year!

Last week he started as Head Invigilator for Knysna High School Matric Exams... (will post pictures later) It is very strange seeing him in a tie every day!