Wednesday, February 04, 2009

I woke up at 4:30 a.m. on Monday to be ready to leave for the airport at 6:30 a.m. We had to be there at 7:00 a.m. Julio's brother, Raphael, picked us up in the school van and Leila and Laura went along to be sure we got through everything at the airport. I can't believe how crazy the traffic was at 6:30 a.m. but we made it to the airport safely (which we were always thankful for with all the crazy driving) just a few minutes after 7:00 a.m. We figured we would get checked in and through security and have plenty of time to look around at the shops in the airport Boy were we wrong! We first had to stand in line to get a slip of tax exemption because we paid our exit tax in with our ticket prices. We then stood in a very long and very slow line to check in. In this line we went through our 1st security clearance as we were questioned by security officers about all sorts of things: the reason for our trip, where we stayed, our professions, how we obtained our ticket (this one almost tripped Dad up as his ticket was the one we got with airline miles), who packed our luggage, etc. We got through this clearance but then Dad got pulled to have his luggage searched ... and of course his underwear was right in top! Finally we arrive at the check in counter and get checked in without any problems. We then proceeded to the next security clearance where we and our carry-on items are checked. We said our goodbyes to Laura and Leila before getting in line We were really glad to have them with us to guide us through the maze. We both got frisked at the clearance and then passed through. At this point we still thought we had enough time to look around so we stopped in one of the shops.
Dad came with the determination to purchase me an emerald since Columbia mines emeralds and is known for some of the finest in the world. We never got a chance to shop for any during the week so we took a look at the airport. We were astonished at how expensive they were. The first necklace I looked at was over $1000.00 US. I have to admit the depth of the color and clarity of the emeralds were exceptional. We lowered our expectations of what we would be able to purchase and I found a beautiful emerald pendant. I purchased a chain for it once back home.
We went on to locate our gate and I was still thinking I could look around after finding it but, again, I was wrong. First of all, to our surprise we had to go through another security clearance to get to the gate area. We got settled at the gate and I went to purchase a snack as we had not had breakfast. I got back to find that we had to take everything out of the gate area as they set up another security clearance we had to go through. We went through this clearance to be told they were bringing my checked luggage to the gate for searching. I'm still not sure what the deal was but they had an officer come to check mine. The other bags were being checked by a clerk and the dogs came to sniff mine. They told Jim he had to stay to be there for the search and the plane was then currently loading so Jim sent me on to the plane. I was very nervous as I waited and waited and waited for him to come on the plane. Finally I saw him. He said the officer moved things around and sniffed my bag. I'm not sure what they were looking for but they didn't find it.
Finally we took off for Newark, New Jersey. This was a long, hot, and uncomfortable flight that seemed like it would never end. When we finally arrived in Newark, they had all flights in a holding pattern while they changed the runway schedule due to weather. It was an awesome feeling to get off that plane. I was glad to be back in the States. Going through customs and baggage check went quickly and smoothly which we were glad of because we were late getting in and had to change terminals and were pushing it to get to our next flight in time. Then we found out our next flight had been delayed an hour due to weather. We had a smoothie, made some phone calls and waited.
The departure time kept changing but finally we boarded ... to wait for de-icing of our plane. It was great to finally get off the ground and headed for Detroit. We arrived in Detroit, dug our car out of the snow & ice, grabbed supper, and headed for home ... HOME SWEET HOME!!!! We arrived home around midnight to excited dogs and a warm, comfortable home. We were definitely exhausted from our 18-19 hour day but very blessed and very fulfilled!
I am so thankful that God opened this door of ministry for us. We were so blessed in so many ways! I can't wait to see the next door that God opens!

Tuesday, February 03, 2009

So it is the evening of our last day in Columbia ... sad to be leaving ... ready to be home and missing everyone at home! Our host family, Julio, Leila and Laura were there along with another of Julio's daughtesr and her husband ... and Max, the puppy. Dianna, her mom and brother came by to visit and say goodbye. I wanted so much to give Dianna something for all she did for us but didn't have anything else left but a few chocolates. (We took all kinds of chocolates with us to share with the people. Our friend, Rick, told us they loved chocolate, especially Reese's. We shared most of what we had with our host family and everyone at the retreat but still had a few left.) Jim and I were talking about wanting to give something to Dianna and he reminded me that I had 2 new books by Tommy Tenney about Esther and about worship. I felt like I was supposed to give those to her so I wrote a note to her and got out the rest of the chocolate.
We all sat around sharing what God was speaking in our hearts and through us to each other. I haven't sat with a group of people where the Holy Spirit spoke and ministered in such a powerful way in a long time. Prophetic words, encouragement and appreciation just flowed between us. I will treasure this time for a very long time. When we were at the retreat they gave each person a small gift that Julio said had a prophetic meaning for each individual. I received a treasure box with a scripture reminding me that as I follow and obey God He will bless me and prosper me. I was reminded that I am a treasure and that God lives on the inside of me and has planted many treasures in me. Jim received a jeep full of food, supplies, coffee, etc. I'm not sure what his scripture said ... can't remember at the moment ... but I do know he needs a new car. His Toyota is over 300,000 miles now and I believe this token showed God's provision in our lives. I really believe this trip is a turning point in our lives: we are headed toward financial freedom and I believe this is the beginning of God opening more doors in our lives to walk in His purpose for us. I will find Jim's scripture and share it with you in another post. During our sharing, God ministered to the group about their needs being met for a building so they can carry on their purpose of seeing change in their country. Jim shared the miracle of provision of a building for FCCS. It was hard to see this time come to an end but the hour was late and we had a very early start on Monday morning. I gave Dianna the 2 books and shared the rest of the candy with the group. Dianna was very touched by the gift but especially by the note regarding God preparing and using her for her "such a time as this". She shared with us that God has been speaking and confirming this in her over and over. I'm so glad we obeyed God in giving her the book and that the words I wrote were from His heart.
We all sat around sharing what God was speaking in our hearts and through us to each other. I haven't sat with a group of people where the Holy Spirit spoke and ministered in such a powerful way in a long time. Prophetic words, encouragement and appreciation just flowed between us. I will treasure this time for a very long time. When we were at the retreat they gave each person a small gift that Julio said had a prophetic meaning for each individual. I received a treasure box with a scripture reminding me that as I follow and obey God He will bless me and prosper me. I was reminded that I am a treasure and that God lives on the inside of me and has planted many treasures in me. Jim received a jeep full of food, supplies, coffee, etc. I'm not sure what his scripture said ... can't remember at the moment ... but I do know he needs a new car. His Toyota is over 300,000 miles now and I believe this token showed God's provision in our lives. I really believe this trip is a turning point in our lives: we are headed toward financial freedom and I believe this is the beginning of God opening more doors in our lives to walk in His purpose for us. I will find Jim's scripture and share it with you in another post. During our sharing, God ministered to the group about their needs being met for a building so they can carry on their purpose of seeing change in their country. Jim shared the miracle of provision of a building for FCCS. It was hard to see this time come to an end but the hour was late and we had a very early start on Monday morning. I gave Dianna the 2 books and shared the rest of the candy with the group. Dianna was very touched by the gift but especially by the note regarding God preparing and using her for her "such a time as this". She shared with us that God has been speaking and confirming this in her over and over. I'm so glad we obeyed God in giving her the book and that the words I wrote were from His heart.
After our goodbyes, we said goodnight to our host family and went to get a few hours of sleep before our early morning on Tuesday. I'll try and finish up our trip in my next post!

Monday, February 02, 2009

There were a couple of things we really wanted to try as we awoke on our last day in Columbia. We wanted to try their empanadas and tamales. Our host family provided us with one of those for breakfast, tamales. They were delicious and totally different from the tamales we have had (which are also delicious.) These were a mixture of ground rice, vegetables, a boiled egg, and chicken which was wrapped in banana leaves. They pulled the banana leaves up around the mixture and tied it closed. This was then boiled. It was served tied up in the banana leaves. To eat it you just untied the leaves and ate. The taste of the ground rice mixture was very similar to the tamale. They served it with some sort of cornbread and cooked bananas with a sweet cream inside of them. It was all very delicious and way too much food for breakfast! They told us that in another part of Columbia they made something that sounded similar to our tamales but is called something different.
Jim preached in the church our host family attends and that the school is located in. The church runs about 10,000 to 12,000 people. They have 4 services on Sundays to get everyone in and each service is packed. The pastor there was awesome: he very much had the heart of a pastor for his people. We enjoyed the time we spent with him. The praise and worship was awesome and Dad did an awesome job sharing God's Word with the people. They were very receptive and responsive to the preaching. Dad preached a great sermon on not wasting your sorrows (that no matter what is happening Jesus is Lord and Jesus is Victor ... He is our Lord and He gives us victory in every situation. 21 people came forward to accept Jesus and the people of the church fully received the Word. The pastor left a wide open door for us to return any time to minister.
After church I found a fan. An older lady came up to me and through an interpreter told me she watches me every day on television and loves me. She stated that she is losing the channel I'm on soon and will no longer be able to watch and is very sad. I didn't know how to tell her I wasn't whoever she thought I was. I was really in shock and a little confused ... so I just nodded my head and smiled and gave her a hug. I can't believe I am a star and didn't even know it!
After church 2 daughters of our host family (our host, Julio, had became ill at the retreat and was home in bed), a son-in-law and his father took us out to lunch. They took us to a nice, little Colombian restaurant call Soups by Mama and Desserts by Grandma (of course it was in Spanish). It was a really neat place with wonderful food. We got to try the empanada and fresh fried pork rinds ... which were delicious. The fresh juices were awesome and Dad had one that was the best we had the whole trip ... not sure what it was though. After lunch they took us shopping to a normal souvenir type shop and another open air market and then to a more up end mall. We purchased a few things including some Colombian coffee (at Juan Valdez') to bring home with us.
Exhausted, we headed back to our "home away from home" to get out things ready for our trip back home. Later that evening we were expecting Dianna and her family to come for a visit ... which turned out to be a very special time and a great ending to a great week! I will tell you about that in my next post.

Sunday, February 01, 2009

Before leaving on Saturday I went up on the roof of the dormitory and got a wonderful view of the surrounding valley and the mountains. Columbia is a beautiful country with the Andes Mountains and all the tropical greenery and flowers. There were flowers blooming everywhere and some very fragrant.
A couple of the people wanted to be sure we got to go down to the river. I'm so glad they insisted and even held up the bus for us. It was pretty much a straight shot down and very slippery. One of the guys walked backwards in front of me holding my hands to be sure I didn't fall ... and he almost fell. It was so gorgeous around the river. Orchids of all kinds were in the trees and vines everywhere. It felt very much like a jungle. It was a pretty large river and a "rushing" river. There were all kinds of plants and fruits. One thing I didn't know was that a large flower blooms on the end of each bunch of bananas ... it was kind of purple or burgundy. We also saw coffee plants and I confiscated a coffee bean. It was well worth the trip down and back up the incline!
We loaded our things and we were on our way back to Bogotá! We wanted so much to stop in the small village just outside of the retreat center and were excited when Dianna talked them into stopping. It was a very small village and the two of us "white folks" definitely drew some attention ... and of course Jim was taking pictures which drew even more attention. There was a beautiful Catholic church and what I would call a village square with a couple of very unique statues. We went in a couple of shops. In one little coffee/pastry shop we went we were treated very special. The owner seemed very excited that we stopped in. We sat down and had some snacks ... not sure what .... some type of meringue and pastries and a wonderful cup of coffee. And when we came out of the shop we found everyone looking for us and worried about where we were! Back on the bus others shared some of their treats with us too. One fruit they shared (actually on the way to the retreat) was very interesting. It was full of this rather "slimy" stuff full of seeds and you sucked it out and ate the seeds and all ... it was very sweet and very good.
The trip back we got to see some the area that we weren't able to see coming due to darkness. The trip back was pretty uneventful other than when our bus driver decided to pass a couple of 18 wheelers while we were coming up on a curve and you couldn't see what was coming. Passing makes me nervous anyway but this was crazy. And of course around the curve a truck comes barreling down on us and stopped right on top of us ... actually seemed like his hood went under us ... and I had a perfect view as I was sitting on the front seat! This truck driver was livid. He jumped out of his truck and took a picture of the bus license plate with his cell phone, said something (I'm sure some choice words I wouldn't repeat!) and then he did something stupid ... he went speeding into our lane with oncoming traffic to go around the bus. But we made it safely back to Bogotá and our home for the week. Our host family had supper waiting on us ... we ate and crashed for the night.
The next day was Sunday and our final day in Bogotá! I will share that in the next posting

Saturday, January 31, 2009

The retreat started at 7:00 a.m. each morning and went all day long. We began the day with devotions by the school pastor and then had breakfast. Dad and I did all of the sessions each day. Dad had the pleasure of starting off the retreat. He did a great job teaching on many different subjects. A few things really stuck out to me. He taught on the need for unity among the staff. This was something really close to his heart as he experienced the effects that a lack of unity has on a school through the issues that Fountain City Christian School encountered last year. This was a very anointed and powerful teaching and I watched as God ministered to His people regarding the need for unity and the resulting power that comes with unity.
One thing I became grateful for right away was the way the school pastor was able to take the word God spoke through us and direct it to specific needs in the hearts of the staff without preaching the sermon again or without preaching a different sermon. He was very sensitive to what God was speaking and to what God wanted to do. We brought him up to close out each session. I appreciated him very much and he was a great asset to the ministry God sent us to do.
Another message that really stuck out to me was when Dad took some time and ministered to the group on how much they need each other. Dad split them in groups according to what they each did and then he pointed out what each group did, the importance of what they did, and what would happen if they weren't there doing their job. It was a very powerful time and they each realized how important the other persons are and that it takes everyone doing their part, using their particular individual gifts to accomplish what God wants to do in their schools, in their students, and in their country. It was a powerful time as Dad released them to appreciate one another.
Dad's last message came from Esther and the message of God putting a person in a place, in a position ... for such a time as this. It was an awesome way to end the retreat as God sent out the message that He has placed each person where they are for a specific purpose and for a specific time. The challenge went forth for each person to step up and have courage and do what God placed them there to do.
I ministered two sessions. The first day I ministered to the women on the Characteristics of a Wise Woman (while Dad ministered to the men on Men of Excellence). It was an awesome time of teaching and it was great to see the women receiving from God. The second day I ministered on inner healing and freedom in Jesus. I really believe this word went forth in power and began a work in the hearts of the people from which they will continue to see fruit over the next year. It was awesome to watch as the people received the word and allowed God to begin a healing in their hearts and begin to set them free. It was a great honor and privilege to be used by God to speak into the hearts of His people.
The worship was powerful all day, each day. I always love the hunger and the freedom in worship when we travel to other countries. The first night I couldn't understand a word that was said in the worship but I completely understood the heart of worship. I cried as I thought about the fact that I had no idea where I was or how to get home ... I didn't really know anyone but Dad ... I couldn't communicate with very many ... but I felt so at home and felt the awesome presence of God! It was a blessing!
We finished up the retreat on Saturday afternoon and they had prepared a wonderful snack ... a glass full of mixed fruits and juices ... very refreshing! We prepared to leave for Bogotá but got a little tour of the property before leaving. I will tell you about that in my next post!

Friday, January 30, 2009

The continuing story of our trip to Columbia, South America......
We left the house around 4:30 p.m. and as we walked out the door we found out we would be walking to the church........which wasn't very far but here you have 2 white people (already a head turner as we walk down the streets) and now we are pulling our luggage behind us. We arrived at the church to see a large tour bus awaiting us for our trip to the "farm" for the "retirement." We loaded up and did the typical thing: we waited for everyone else who was late to arrive. Finally, we left for our trip DOWN the mountain. Now just imagine the narrow, very curvy roads going down the mountains here in the States (if you have ever been on those roads) where you can see where you came from over on the other mountain and where you are headed down the next mountain ... no guardrails, huge drop-offs, and a long line of 18-wheelers in front of and behind us. Of course, because we were their special guests we were privileged to sit on the front seat of the bus and we could see EVERYTHING! I'm sure we made all sorts of faces and sounds as we watched where we were going ... and as we prayed a lot! It was a very long trip. Our bus driver really went slow (which I was thankful for as I watched other buses passing the long lines of 18-wheelers and our bus going extremely too fast.) Jim made the statement that it was no wonder you hear of buses going over the sides of the mountain ... a very comforting thought as I looked over the edge of the mountain!
We arrived late at the "farm" where the "retirement" was taking place. We had no idea what we would be walking into. We found out that the "farm" was actually a retreat center and the "retirement" was actually a retreat! It was a beautiful location! Very tropical ... and right beside a large, rushing river. The church purchased the land and has built a open sanctuary, a full commercial kitchen, an open dining room, and dormitories. They have a family that lives there full time to take care of everything as well as a professional chef to cook. We were very pleasantly surprised as they showed us our accommodations ... a private room with a bedroom and full bath. What a blessing to have our own bath! It was small but new and served the purpose great! We settled our room and went to meet the others in the dining room for supper.
It felt like all we did was eat while at the retreat ... much different than the first couple of days. Every meal was huge and delicious. Every meal, including breakfast, had soup, a full meal, fresh juice, coffee, and fruit or dessert. I fell in love with the coffee. When you asked for coffee you get wonderful Columbia coffee and it is sweetened with sugar cane and loaded with fresh cream. I'm not a coffee drinker but I think I could get addicted if I lived in Columbia! We had all kinds of fresh fruit: papaya, plantains, bananas, pineapple, apples, tangerines, avocados (are they a fruit????) and other fruits I've never seen or heard of before ... but they were delicious. On the property were trees and bushes with every kind of fruit! Also, we had canaries and love birds everywhere. It was so neat to watch them playing and hear their singing!
We met our interpreter, Dianna. She is about the age of our son, Jamie. She is native to Columbia but spent 8 years in the States. She is a graduate of Oral Roberts University and spent some time here teaching after she earned her degree. She was an awesome blessing to us; not only was she a great interpreter, she also was very sensitive to the Spirit of God and moved right with us as we ministered. She plans to be back in the States in August to work on her Master's. She plans to come visit so hopefully all of you will be able to meet her. We really developed a heart bond with her over the few days we spent together.
Next post, I will tell you all about the retreat and the awesome way God moved!

Wednesday, January 28, 2009



We had an awesome trip to Columbia, South America! God's presence was very awesome as we taught His Word and ministered to the people.
We arrived at the home we stayed in late on Tuesday evening. It was a long day of traveling and we were exhausted! We had a little snack and juice and visited with our host family before passing out in bed. Julio and his wife, Leila, both work for the Christian school that brought us to Columbia. They actually started the school many years ago. They had one daughter currently at home.....Laura. We took the family gifts of peanut butter, chocolate and sculptor/stonework by Carruth.....the artist in Waterville.
On Wednesday morning we slept in a little, had breakfast.........eggs, bread and peanut butter toast........with fresh juice. The juices all week were wonderful.......made fresh and we had so many different kind........papaya, orange, pineapple, mango, tangerine..........and some that I don't even know the fruit but they were great! After breakfast we did some touring of the church and school........meeting the teachers and staff of the school and the pastors and staff of the church. The church runs between 10,000 and 12,000 people each Sunday and they have outgrown the building...........they have 4 services on Sunday to get everyone in. They are currently looking for land so they can enlarge. Also, the school will need a new building in 2 years because theirs will no longer pass safety inspections to be used as a school.....it is several stories tall and within 2 years all schools have to be only one floor. They are trusting God for a miracle!

After leaving the school we went to visit a salt mine.........it was very interesting. The interesting thing to me was that now that although it is a working mine, they have made it into a cathedral.........they even have masses in it. So we are down in this mountain/cathedral and it has the 14 stations of the cross like we saw in Jerusalem...............places set up representing the different things that happened as Jesus carried His cross.
After visiting the salt mine we went for lunch/early supper..........we were starving because we had only eaten the small breakfast that morning and it was around 4:00 p.m. We went to a small local restaurant in the village we were in. It felt like we were sitting in a movie like Romancing the Stone wondering when the drug dealers were going to burst in and we would have to turn the table over and jump behind it on the floor for protection! And the owner looked the part of the drug dealer! But the food was wonderful! Dad had fish...........a whole fish split open with still the head.....and eyes but he enjoyed it. (OK, he really DID NOT eat the eyes.) We let our host order for us because the menu was in Spanish. Mine ended of being a huge steak with potatoes, some type of bread made of corn and fried plantains. After dinner we headed back to Bogotá.....the city we were staying in. We were really surprised by how large of a city Bogotá is and the traffic was crazy...........and there were small motorcycles everywhere, swerving in and out of traffic..........I don't think they obeyed any laws, as a matter of fact, I'm not so sure there were much of any traffic laws because those in cars didn't do much better! By the way Bogotá is (high above sea level) like being in Denver, Colorado so we were sucking for air a lot of the time!
On Thursday morning they added a cooked hotdog to our breakfast menu and we left to go up the mountain................mind you that Bogotá is built on the top of a mountain plateau already and we are going much higher.............it was like being in Breckenridge, Colorado. We were really sucking for air! On the top of this mountain they had built a Catholic Cathedral where they have regular masses. They also have a restaurant. We took a train straight up the mountain and a cable car straight down the mountain......a little scary! It was a beautiful cathedral which also had the seven stations of the cross leading up to it. It was a beautiful view of the city and the other mountains and countryside. The flowers were beautiful! We even saw a hummingbird..........a very big one!
After leaving the mountain we went for lunch in downtown Bogotá and met our hosts other daughter. We ate lunch a a very "muslim" restaurant..........the food was very good but it felt a little strange with all the writing that was on the wall regarding the muslim religion.
After lunch we did some shopping in an open market type place. They had all of the normal tourist things..............and they also had some beautiful poncho's, scarves and sweaters that were made in Columbia.
We returned home for a short rest and we prepared to leave for the retreat. We were told we would be speaking at at "retirement" at the "farm". I will tell you all about that later.
What an awesome trip and what an awesome God! We are thankful for His anointing, His favor and His protection of us and of each of you! We are very honored that He allowed us this privilege!

Saturday, December 13, 2008

Enjoy!!!



This is Isaac ... all ready for Christmas. THis is Crystal and David's handsome son
This is Aubrianna and Annaliese ... two peas in a pod awaiting the celebration of Jesus' birth ... and presents ... including a new little sister in March 2009. These are AMber and Ed' sweethearts.

This is Christian, Chloe, and Carson ... Jamie's and Crystal's three wonderful babies. They, too, are awaiting the joys that come at this festive time of year.

This is Papa and Gammy/Mimi ... two proud grandparents of six beautiful babies (plus awaiting number 7 in March 2009.)

Thursday, March 27, 2008


Here's some new pics of the grandchildren ... and the horses.

Lexie and Smudge (ready to shed the winter coats)


Papa and Isaac


Christian loving on sis, Chloe


Carson loving on Sis (Chloe)



Aubrianna helping to bathe Sis (Annaliese)


Tuesday, January 01, 2008

Sunday, December 16, 2007

Merry Christmas from the Garrett Clan!

2007 has been a very busy year for the Garrett family, and we are delighted to share some highlights with you. First of all, our grandchildren have doubled since last Christmas. We are thankful for the addition of Isaac Hebron Bunts (2/15), Chloe Jewel Garrett (4/22), and Annaliese Hope Marroquin (8/29) to our increasing fold.

Another huge highlight was the celebration of 30 great years of marriage for Cheri and Jim. When so many marriages are falling apart, it is a real thrill to see God bring us through 30 great years…..we are so blessed to have each other!

Jim finally completed his doctoral studies at Ashland Theological Seminary and is now officially Dr. James Garrett. PTL! Clearly, such a feat could not have been accomplished without the assistance of a loving wife who continually was saying “Write!,” a great daughter (Crystal) who stood as Field Advisor, two great kids (Amber & Jamie) who were continually asking how Dad was doing, and a whole team of others who walked the path alongside. (BTW, special thanks to Aunt Gloria for all your editing and suggestions.)

Cheri is still managing the office staff at Fallen Timbers Family Physicians. This is a continual challenge with much opportunity to share the love of Jesus and experience personal growth.

Jim is administrating Fountain City Christian School where he also teaches Latin 1, 2, 3, and 4. Additionally, he has the blessing of working with about 25 Bryan High School students in Latin 2, 3, and 4. Jim also is Adjunct Professor at Ashland Theological Seminary in Ashland where he currently teaches Foundations of Bible Study to about 30 graduate students. This is the fruit of God speaking to Jim that as he walked in obedience to God he would be used to touch many through teaching and passing on the passion to others.

Jim and Cheri continue their pastoral ministry through the Oasis. Although they have formerly been ministering in Dundee, MI and Sylvania, OH, they are now ministering this same thing in Napoleon, OH. God seems to be opening a door to plant a new work in this area.

Crystal and David are still living in Maumee, OH. Crystal teaches English with her dad out at Fountain City Christian School and David still works as a Chemical Engineer at Brush Wellman in Elmore, OH. Their son Isaac is a delight to everyone who sees him, and he continues to grow healthily and strong, dancing to every bit of music he hears.

Amber and Ed are still living in Bolingbrook, IL (Chicago). Amber continues to work as a neo-natal nurse at Edwards Hospital and Eddie ministers as media pastor at a large, Pentecostal church in the Chicago area. Their two girls, Aubrianna and Annaliese, continue to woo everyone who sees them with their beauty and their charm.

Jamie and Crystal now live in Bryan, OH where they are both busy in the food preparation industry and where Jamie is getting his college education back on track. Their children Christian, Carson, and Chloe are absolute baby dolls as they smile, laugh, and make funnies for everyone around them to enjoy.

We give Jesus all the praise and are so thankful for His many blessing in our lives. We are a continually enlarging family and are delighted to serve Jesus with all of our beings.

It is our desire that this Christmas season will be full of the joy of Jesus in your life and that the joy of Jesus will overflow on everyone God puts in your path.

Blessings…..Love…..Joy……Hope……Peace!

“Dr.” Jim & Cheri Garrett