I just returned from travels to Charlotte, Nashville and Philadelphia, meeting many of the great people associated with ALARM. The passion of so many for Africa is really encouraging. I took a day off on Friday and spent most of it hanging pictures with Rebekah. We are still in the midst of much unpacking. With both of us keeping busy schedules at ALARM, there is limited progress we make each week.  A part of my trip to Philadelphia was to have a tooth extracted and a titanium post implanted. I had a tooth with a crown--the crown has come out twice in the past 18 months--the tooth root appeared to be cracked . . . leading to the potential of infection . . . a risk given the spinal infection I had last June possibly linked to a dental problem. All that to say, regretfully the tooth had to come out. Hopefully things will heal and in three months a crown placed on the post. 

Two weeks from Sunday I leave for Africa. I am really enjoying serving ALARM and the African team. Right now is a particularly difficult time financially--a combination of the economy and the need for us to build a broader support base. We are seeking to make difficult decisions as well as trusting God for his provision.

Rebekah is involved with a theater production that runs 7 weeks, 4 nights a week. She continues to audition on a regular basis. Ben's place of work has had several layoffs and work is not as plentiful as he would like to see. 

Sorry for the sporadic blogging . . . .getting settled and learning the new responsibilities is taking all of my time and energies.

We are deeply grateful for God's provision for us. For our friends, our home, the ministry we have the privilege to serve and for the many opportunities God has given us through the years.