This surely has been the best furlough yet. Maybe because its so long, we’ve actually had a chance to rest.  The 5 months were broken into 3 parts.  The first 2 months were for traveling with the kids and seeing everyone we possibly could.  It was exhausting (driving across a different state every few days at times) and energizing (seeing loved ones after 2 years).  Thanks to all those that housed us and fed us!!
Then we settled in Tulsa for a month to catch our breath, get Jakob started in school, get set-up in the lovely place we’re staying, and re-establish the great relationships we have with our church and friends.

For the last couple of months, September and October, Joel and Joseph (he’s flying in 9/4) will be traveling and fundraising for the building campaign for the Children’s Ministry Center.
Hayslip Boys:  Here is a picture of Jakob in his uniform clothes he’s wearing while attending Summit Christian Academy.  After just a couple weeks, he’s memorized the Pledge of Allegence (he’d never heard it before!), Pledge to the Christian Flag, Pledge to the Bible and many memory verses.  Wow!

Silas has big news- he can walk now!  He started walking the day before Joel’s parents came to visit (at 15 months), almost like he wanted to show off to them!  The 2 boys are growing tall, strong and smart and we’re proud of them both.