Life with the Coyles

Kindergarten, Here We Come!

2012-02-01T01:28:00.000-07:00

Andy just arrived home from taking Moriah to her first day of kindergarten! He and Isaiah helped her set up her desk and locker, and then after the morning devotions, Andy offered to go into the classroom with her for a bit. She ran off with the kids with a wave behind her. It's hard to believe she is so grown up already! We are thankful for her excitement and this opportunity to learn and grow.

We enrolled her in a private Christian Ukrainian school here in Odesaa (the only one, actually!). It's such a great chance for her to learn the language in the easiest way, and to make some friends. Plus, her teacher speaks excellent English and is so kind! It's a small class- about 10 kids- and we're praying that she can really enjoy it and be brave. Completing Kindergarten is a prerequisite for beginning first grade (the real "beginning" of school year), which is why we are starting in February. For now, she will participate from 8-12:30, which makes for an easier transition. We welcome your prayers for her in this important time in her life, and that she would know in a very real way that the Lord is with her wherever she goes.

Meanwhile, the boys and I have a new phase of life going here at home :)

We are thankful for Andy's schedule right now that allows him to study at home! He is such an awesome Daddy and we're cheering him on as he makes strides in learning Russian.

January Evangelism Outreach

2012-01-27T06:56:00.000-07:00

We are so thankful for the opportunity that exists here in Ukraine to share the Gospel in public schools. Our co-workers here with the Youth Center ministry have been presenting the Light of Christ through such creative means with elementary school students in rural Odessa. We are so encouraged by their faithfulness to reach out to others with Christ's love- and we hope you are as well. May the Word of God bear fruit in these young hearts, that a new generation might be raised up for Christ here in Ukraine.

Pastor Alexander Gross, Youth Center director

Ministry co-workers, Sasha and Olga, sharing the Gospel through clown ministry

Pastor Alexander Gross telling about the Gift of God

Nice hair, huh?!

Jenya, who works at the Children's Center (an after-school and home-care program for children in need) in a nearby village, shares with the children.

The Youth Encounter team shared a concert at each of the programs, as well as some full-length concerts in many other places throughout Ukraine this past month. Thank you to this awesome team for sharing their time, talents, and love for the Lord.

Evangelistic Outreach This Week

2012-01-14T03:39:00.000-07:00

Yesterday began a winter blitz of school evangelism presentations here- 15 presentations in 13 days! These presentations in local schools include puppets, skits, dramas, and testimonies. A team of five college students is volunteering here with Youth Center volunteers to share the Gospel to hundreds of elementary school students.

Would you please pray with us for open hearts to receive the love of Jesus Christ? Please pray also for the busy schedule in the week ahead, and for the Watermark Team, and for the Youth Center staff and volunteers.

Mission Building Nears Completion

2012-01-11T12:40:00.000-07:00

This month we anticipate the completion of the Mission Building at the Youth Center property in Petrodolina. Much, much prayer has brought about this gracious provision, and we have been privileged to see God at work in this throughout the last year. The building will provide housing for Pastor Alexander Gross (Pastor of the Petrodolina church, Youth Center Director, and President of the church body with which we work) and family, Pastor Ole Magnus (Norwegian missionary and Bible Training Ministry co-worker), limited guest housing, storage, and offices for the Bible Training Ministry.

Visit the Youth Center's website for the photogallery.

Pastor Ole Magnus and Pastor Alexander Gross

Nearly-completed Mission Building

Christmas in Petrodolina

2012-01-11T12:25:00.000-07:00

We celebrated our first Orthodox Christmas this past January 6-7. In Ukraine, as well as in other former Soviet countries, Christmas is officially celebrated according to the Orthodox calender. Our church here celebrates Christmas on the traditional dates (Dec. 24-25), but this was a great opportunity to share in our new culture and celebrate Christ's birth in a new way. Our family joined with the Pastor Alexander Gross family, Pastor Ole Magnus (Bible Training Ministry co-workers), and other ministry volunteers at the Youth Center in Petrodolina.

We had a wonderful meal on the eve of the Orthodox Christmas holiday. Alyona prepared some traditional dishes, with "verenikiy" as the main dish. Verenikiy, specifically Ukrainian, is a potato-filled dumpling that is very tasty! After dinner, we were treated to some traditional Ukrainian Christmas songs. We enjoyed some great fellowship and fun- especially for the kids :) The men were able to have some longer planning sessions for the Bible Training Ministry that evening and the following day.

December 2011

2012-01-02T02:22:00.000-07:00

Who, me?

"Chocolate? What chocolate?" After Andy realized Josiah was strangely (and silently) occupied in the living room, we found Josiah with his new favorite food. Apparently he thought it was his turn to open the window on the Advent calendar!

How many of us does it take to string the garland?

Grandpa and Grandma Olsen arrived just in time to celebrate Christmas with us! Yay!

Isaiah had his heart set on being a shepherd for quite a while. Here he is on Christmas Eve, after our family program.

Josiah played the role of Baby Jesus on Christmas Eve at church. He graciously smiled at each of the youth group members during the play as they presented him gifts :)

Not picture-perfect, but evidence of a the reason we celebrate- a Savior born in the fullness of time.

Christmas in downtown Odessa

Happy 1st Birthday, Josiah! We are so thankful for our joyful little man and the blessing he is in our lives.

Maybe he will be our soccer player?!

We were able to visit the Children's Center, which is an outreach of the church body we work with here in Ukraine. It is located in a village outside Odessa and ministers to children and elderly in need. We joined them for their English Club, presenting on the United States and specifically the Midwest. My Dad gave a demonstration on roping, and the kids each wanted to try.

We had a birthday party for Jesus. Above is Jenya, leading us in songs.

The children (about half of those who live in the home were able to attend that day) opened gifts for them to use in their Center. Special thanks to generous friends who donated the gifts. The children were pretty eager to play the games :)

Happy New Year, dear friends! с Новым годом from us here in Ukraine! We pray you have a year full of His grace and peace this 2012.

Everyday life with the Coyles

2011-12-05T12:40:00.001-07:00

Thanks for checking our blog! I hope to be adding more photos of family and ministry life in the busy month ahead.

Our cardboard house (aka the Coyle Castle) boasts of indoor lighting and even two rooms! The kids have had many hours of fun already. Now, after a week the duct tape is wearing apart and the walls have needed reinforcements. Not to worry; Isaiah is becoming quite the handyman and is convinced duct tape can fix anything.

Andy is working hard on verbs of motion and perfect/imperfect verbs. Did you know there are 84 forms of two verbs you can use in Russian to express "going" somewhere? Oh, yes! It all depends... Are you walking or going by transport? Is it habitual motion? Is it a round-trip or a completed action? The list goes on... but thankfully the Lord gives WISDOM and COFFEE!

"O Give Thanks to the Lord!" Psalm 118:1

2011-12-05T12:22:00.000-07:00

It's never too late for giving Thanks, is it? Though it was a few weeks ago, we had a wonderful first Thanksgiving here in Odessa- turkey and all. A group of about 25 missionaries and Americans joined us for Thanksgiving dinner. Our apartment was packed but it was so much fun. We are grateful for the fellowship and encouragement of others serving the Lord here in Ukraine. Later in the afternoon the power went out... and that may have actually been the highlight for all the kids! "Electricity" was added to the thankful list the following day :)

Fall Fun

2011-11-20T13:31:00.000-07:00

Martin of Tours Day celebration at St. Paul's Lutheran

Josiah- 10 months

Happy Birthday, Andy!

Bible Seminar- Lutsk (Northwest Ukraine), November 4-5. Andy taught two workshops with Pastor Alexander Gross and Pastor Ole Magnus Breivold over the weekend. The kids and I tagged along for our first overnight train ride and a couple of days with our friends, Tomasz, Miriam, and Hannah Chmiel. We had a wonderful time together with the Chmiels; it was a very encouraging weekend. Moriah and Isaiah thought the train was the coolest thing ever... poor Josiah didn't like it so much and ended up with a bad cold :(

This Is Now

2011-10-30T14:22:00.001-06:00

This week marked our fourth month here in Odessa, and it's hard to believe the time has gone so fast. So much has changed in such a short amount of time that it is hard to encapsulate life as we know it.

Before I go any further, I want to say how thankful we are for God's grace and the prayers of so many. We are hemmed in on every side by such a mighty God! He is a faithful Guide, a tender Shepherd, and gracious Comforter.

A lot has happened in these four months, and we are so thankful for the transition we have had into life here in Ukraine. God is opening doors for friendships and ministry; we are making progress with language study; we can find most of what we need for food, etc., (including some awesome bread!); the children are adjusting well and I even caught them speaking Russian in Sunday School today! We do feel at home here, and the adventuring has been fun.

Yet to be truthful, four months is just four months. I still have to stop and realize that this IS a foreign country to us! I have caught myself reminiscing a lot in the past few days, thinking of special times and special faces. I have had to be honest with myself and with the Lord, depending a lot on Him to help us as we find our way in this adventure of following Him.

Yesterday we finished our read-aloud book with Moriah and Isaiah, Laura Ingalls Wilder's "Little House in the Big Woods." The closing lines confirmed the importance of enjoying TODAY. Not wishing for yesterday or dreaming of tomorrow, but living fully for the Lord in the "now."

When the fiddle had stopped playing, Laura called out softly, 'What are the days of auld lang syne, Pa?'

'They are the days of a long time ago, Laura,' Pa said. 'Go to sleep now.'

But Laura lay awake al ittle while, listening to Pa's fiddle softly playing and to the lonely sound of the wind in the Big Woods... She looked at Ma, gently rocking and knitting.
She thought to herself, 'This is now.'

She was glad that the cosy house, and Pa and Ma and the fire-light and the ysic, were now. They could not be forgotten, she thought, because now is now. It can never be a long time ago.

Thank you, Lord, for the assurance of your promise to be with us wherever we go, and that "even if we settle on the far side of sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast (Psalm 139:10)."

October Highlights

2011-10-30T14:22:00.000-06:00

Feeling the love from Iowa! A little bit of Iowa right here in Ukraine :)

Good ole' corn... otherwise known as kukuruza.

"On the Christ Solid Rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand... all other ground is sinking sand."

Gloria Concord Newsletter

2011-10-04T05:34:00.000-06:00

The youth ministry work that we are part of here in Ukraine has a wonderful journal, entitled the Concord. The most recent edition, which includes articles and photos from the summer camp ministry, is available for download in pdf. Included is an article by Andy, which introduces our family to the Gloria youth ministry. Click here to download the recent edition.

You can also visit the Gloria website here.

The Story of Moriah's Broken Arm

2011-09-28T11:09:00.000-06:00

The most common request Isaiah makes is, "Can you tell me a story.... please?" This past weekend Moriah broke her arm, and I guess that's a good story to share here. The title might otherwise be, "The Story of Moriah's Pain Tolerance."

While running, Moriah tripped and fell, probably less than a minute after she ran off to play with her friend. I knew by the look on Andy's face that it wasn't good. Her forearm looked and felt broken. However, she seemed fine just 20 minutes later, and could move her fingers and rotate the arm. Since it was late and she was happy to go to bed, we decided to wait until morning. We knew she needed an x-ray but weren't sure of the best place to go. We prayed for wisdom and God provided! After church, a doctor friend (ministry co-worker) gave us her thoughts (probably just dislocated) and directed us to the pediatric hospital. Another friend, who was with us when the accident happened, went with Andy and Moriah to the hospital to translate. When they arrived back home, I was shocked that it was broken- and of course we felt so bad! But she couldn't wait to get out the markers and take me up on my offer for fresh brownies.

And as for the pain tolerance, Andy said she yelped twice during the re-setting process. She was more upset about not being able to get her shirt back on after the cast was molded! She is healing fine now and finding ways to do about everything that she needs to. Thankfully it was her left arm, as she is right-handed. Thank you, Lord, for taking care of us! "Unto You, O Lord, do we give thanks; unto You do we give thanks." Psalm 75:1

September Family Photos

2011-09-28T10:49:00.000-06:00

Josiah- 8 months old

Ready for bed! Josiah brushes his six teeth (and counting).

We were so happy to find a park with little kid stuff nearby our house.

Josiah thought nap time was a better option :)

Sooooo big!

Tractor man... and what a straight line. I hope it's a sign of being organized?!

Up to trouble... based on what we've seen so far, Andy and I may be in for some exciting times with the "Middle Man" and the "Little Man."

Andy prepares for a seminar.

Ready for fall!

All set to leave the apartment building for a walk to St. Paul's Church.

Nine months old!

Seminar in Kiev

2011-09-06T11:20:00.000-06:00

Last weekend Andy traveled to Kiev with two fellow pastors, where they led a training seminar. Above, Andy is teaching a textual seminar on Romans 12:1-2. There were about 25 students that attended. We will return to this church in December for another seminar.

Andy and Ole in front of the city gate to the ancient of Kiev.

The church with the green domes is the Cathedral of St. Sophia.

This church dates back to the 11th century.

We were able to visit a new museum to see what life was like for Ukrainians hundreds of years ago. This museum is now a place of national pride.

Family Shots

2011-09-06T11:01:00.000-06:00

God is So Good

2011-08-11T12:42:00.000-06:00

One of Isaiah's favorite songs to sing is "God is So Good." During our first few weeks after our arrival especially, and now too, he has at random times belted out a verse or two- and it is hard not to stop everything and sing along! Yes, God is so good and he takes such good care of us. While at family camp, he was polishing off a drinkable peach yogurt, probably his favorite food. After a big "aahhhh" and placing the cup back on the table (and with a huge yogurt mustache all over his face) he began, "God is so good...". I'm with you, Buddy! It does the heart good to pause and praise God for the many ways He daily cares for us. "Awesome is God from His sanctuary; the God of Israel- He is the one who gives power and strength to His people. Blessed be God!" Psalm 68:35

Above, Isaiah reluctantly shares his song for us. Apparently he favors the spontaneous approach :) Happy 3rd Birthday, Isaiah!

Family Camp

2011-08-01T12:37:00.001-06:00

We had the privilege to attend the Gloria family camp, July 24-31 in Ochakov, Ukraine (three hours away). Families from Ukraine, Russia, Moldova, Poland, Germany, Slovakia, and America joined together for a great eight days of fellowship. Each day included a seminar, taught by a couple from Poland, on issues related to the family. Each seminar was very informative and contained strong biblical teaching. Evening sessions, each with a special theme, were times of great worship and celebration. Music,

drama, teaching were all very well done. There was much laughter and joy.

It was great from Monica and I to see the Youth Center’s co-workers in action. We were very impressed with their creativity, organizational skills, and spiritual maturity throughout the week. We really look forward to working with them in the coming years. We also enjoyed meeting and getting to know a few key partners in the work of the Youth Center.

Moriah & Isaiah participated in the kids' Bible program each morning. They were reluctant to sing the new songs in Russian, but now that we are home they have been belting out a few tunes! It is pretty humorous, and neat to see them adapting to the language.

We enjoyed Ukrainian fare each meal at camp- it was good and there was lots of it! The kids learned to try a few new foods. Even Josiah! MMmmmmmm :)

2011 marks the 10th anniversary of the Gloria youth camps in Ukraine. We celebrated by sending up lighted balloons, one for each family represented at family camp.

Evening worship

Andy introduces our family and leads in a worship song

The "last supper" celebration meal was quite a feast and followed by a wonderful closing program.

Ministry Overview

2011-07-15T07:11:00.000-06:00

Our work with the Bible Training Ministry is in close connection with the German Evangelical Lutheran Church of Ukraine (GELCU), East European Missions Network, and Normisjon. The GELCU, which is the historic Lutheran Church of Ukraine, is in the process of rebuilding after seventy years of atheistic oppression.

Over the past ten years, the youth ministry program has grown significantly. This generation of youth is the first to grow up without any remembrance of communism- what an opportunity to share the love of Christ and the hope of the Gospel! This summer there are nine camps being held during the summer months. One of these camps, held July 4-8 in a village outside of Odessa, was hosted by East European Missions Network. 120 students, ages 6-16, participated in the week of camp with the team of Americans. For more pictures and a wonderful explanation of the week, check out the blog of our friends, John and Nichole Moberly (EEMN Team Leaders). The week's theme was HOPE, found in Christ alone.

Andy gave the opening Bible story for one morning of English Bible Camp.

Morning worship before English classes, crafts, recreation, lunch, and drama.

For the closing program, Andy and Ann's class sang "This Little Light of Mine" with two other classes of 6-8 year old students.

Co-Teachers :) Actually, Ann taught the class for most of the time; Andy would say he was just the sidekick. Next year Andy will be hosting the camp with EEMN staff.

Above is the Youth Center, located in the village of Petrodolina (25 km from Odessa), which serves many purposes. On the lower level is a sanctuary, where Sunday worship is held. On the upper level is housing for 20 people. The facility hosts short-term teams, weekend conference attendees, and pastors conferences. The Bible Training Center will initially be held here. For more information, click here. The program is set to begin in fall 2012.

This is the Children's Ministry Home in Novogradovka, a village not far from Petrodlina. Some of the church's co-workers live here, and serve in reaching out to the children and elderly. Below you can see the solar-powered shower for the needy children and the chicken project.

Isaiah and Will Moberly check out the chickens. The eggs provide food for many needy families in the area.

Above is the Lutheran church building in Novogradovka, a village nearby Petrodolina. It was one of the very few churches that were given back to the Lutheran Church after communism. It became a "house of culture" (as you can see on the engraving yet remaining near the roof) and has since been vandalized. In the future, there are hopes to rebuild it into a home for recovering addicts.

Snapshots of the first week

2011-07-12T13:46:00.000-06:00

Our first week was a busy one as we were part of EEMN's short-term mission team. It was very energizing to be part of this great group! Andy and Ann took part in the English Bible Camp, which was held in a village near Petrodolina (a small town about 25 km from Odessa). Our ministry base for the Bible Training Center and youth ministry is located in Petrodolina. The team stayed in the Youth Center there, and we were able to join them for special events in the evenings after camp.

Andy and Ann took part in team training on Friday, July 1. On Saturday we joined the team for an outing to the Black Sea. It was gorgeous! Below are some photos of us enjoying the beach.

The kids and I spent most of the weekdays at our flat. It was nice to get caught up on sleep, unpack our suitcases, and get settled in our new home. It had been five months of living out of our suitcases, so this was a big thing!

The camp was held from 9am to 3 pm, but Andy and Ann left here at 7am and usually got back by 4-5 pm. We joined them on Thursday evening and on Friday for most of the day.

Beauty and the (sorry Isaiah...) Beast! I was working on a project in the living room while Moriah and Isaiah were exploring with some of the toys and dress-up clothes our friends (whose apartment we're renting) left for us. They proudly presented themselves and I was pretty impressed!

Josiah- 6 months and such a smiling guy!

Traveling to Ukraine

2011-07-12T13:17:00.001-06:00

Leaving Minneapolis-St. Paul FULL of energy! We were thankful for Andy's parents, Pastor Del Palmer, and Pastor Don and Mavis Richman who sent us on our way after a time of prayer.

We flew out at 12:30 to Washington-Dulles, where we met my cousin, Ann Wilken. She traveled with us and was a huge blessing! She will be with us through mid-July and we're so thankful she can be here for this part of the journey.

From Washington DC, we flew to Vienna, Austria. The overnight flight went very well overall. Isaiah and Josiah slept really well... thank you for praying! In Vienna we had a little layover and then a short flight on to Odessa. We arrived there by 3 p.m. and retrieved ALL of our bags!

Josiah enjoyed his sweet dreams and I was SO thankful for that! It was a neat answer to prayer as to how we were able to get this bassinet in-flight. Thank you, Lord, and thank you, prayer team!

Our mission director, Pastor Bill Moberly, as well as other EEMN staff and ministry co-workers, met us at the airport in Odessa. We traveled with the EEMN English Bible Camp team, and shared the following week and a half with them.

Home, sweet home! We were so thankful to get to our flat in Odessa, just 20 hours after we left Minnesota. We are renting a flat near the center of the city and it is a huge blessing as we transition. We were welcomed by a warm meal from our hosts, and were able to get settled for the evening.

Grandpa & Grandma Coyles'

2011-07-09T01:55:00.000-06:00

Isaiah made some sweet memories during the guys' outing to a Twins Game. It was so fun to hear him tell us all about it!

We celebrated Isaiah's 3rd birthday in advance- Happy 3rd Birthday, Isaiah!

Moriah and Grandma had a fun girls' night. They had a popcorn party and did some fun crafts.

June Family Time

2011-06-22T12:45:00.000-06:00

We enjoyed a wonderful two days with family at the Moreau River Sanctuary in Western South Dakota. The prairie was lush and green, and the weather was perfect. We will remember it forever, dear Wilkens & Olsens!

Isaiah learns to catch in the family softball game.

"Yes, Jesus Loves Me!" Isaiah & Andy in the Wilken/Olsen Family Talent Show

My Little Cowboy

Moriah and Buford

Grandpa & Grandma Coyle

We look forward to spending the weekend there before we fly out.

2011-06-22T11:35:00.001-06:00

One week to go!

2011-06-22T11:15:00.000-06:00

Here we are with one week before we depart for Odessa. It is amazing to think of all that has taken place since we began deputation in February. We began a busy schedule of traveling as a family, moved from our home in Radcliffe, and tried to tackle a to-do list that seemed to be never-ending! As we pause in the midst of these last few days before our adventure begins, we give thanks to our Sovereign God. He has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy. From beginning to end, HE has provided all we need. Grace, grace, and more grace. Strength. An awesome team of prayer warriors. Resources. Time with family. Peace in our hearts.

The past month has been a whirlwind, from mission training to commissioning, with several presentations in between. Our mission training with World Mission Prayer League was such an encouragement, and we are so thankful for the things we were able to glean. The AFLC annual conference in Sioux Falls, SD was a great time of fellowship and sending off. It works out that we can be in our home congregations, Bethel Lutheran (Faith, SD) and Word of Life Lutheran (Mankato, MN) for the last two Sundays before we depart. In these last few days, we are soaking up the time with our sweet family and finishing up the last of our tasks.

We depart for Odessa on Wednesday, June 29. Thank you in advance for your prayers for us! We look forward to updating you as we transition into life in Ukraine.

To view our previous June e-newsletter, click here. If you are not already receiving our e-newsletters and want to, please let us know! If you would like to receive our current prayer card, the EEMN Office will be able to send you one.

AFLC Commissioning Service- June 15, 2011

2011-06-21T14:48:00.001-06:00

Mission Training Retreat

2011-06-21T13:26:00.001-06:00

Josiah and I were napping in our cabin when I heard some familiar voices calling my name from outside. I stepped out on the porch and this is what I saw!

Andy and Isaiah caught three fish on their outing with Chris Broderson, WMPL Personell Director and Briefing Course leader.

We had some nice, hot days- on the second day there it was 102!

Josiah liked the cooler days better than the hot ones. Here he is snuggling in the big bed for a little R&R :)

Josiah's main form of transportation for the week was our baby carrier. He sleeps well in it, thankfully. Good practice for the travels coming up!

Take a look at this photo and tell me what's missing. Any guesses? The laptop, right! We enjoyed a week away from our to-do list and the wireless world. We enjoyed some great fellowship and time in the Word... and coffee :)

Moriah participated in the VBS program and did a great job singing "Thank You, Thank You, Jesus" in Swahili for the program. She had a blast and made some new friends.

May Repost- Fun in Michigan

2011-06-21T11:43:00.001-06:00

2011-06-02T22:31:00.000-06:00

May Snapshots

2011-05-23T13:36:00.000-06:00

Getting closer to home! On the way back to Iowa, we couldn't pass by this pig!

Josiah- 4 months old

Garage Sale!

2011-05-23T13:32:00.000-06:00

Thanks to Andy's parents, we managed to eliminate a lot of "stuff" in their citywide garage sale in late April. The kids were a bit reluctant to say goodbye to a few items, but since we are shipping their favorites they are not too distressed. Meanwhile, Andy was sipping coffee by the beach (well, not really- more like packing as much Russian into his brain as possible in 21 days!).

He Is Risen!

2011-04-26T22:32:00.000-06:00

We were so thankful to celebrate our Risen Savior together. Thanks to some frequent flier miles, Andy was able to come back from CA for the weekend. What a blessed time with family!

April 2011

2011-04-26T22:29:00.000-06:00

Snapshots

2011-04-16T16:32:00.000-06:00

Miscellaneous March

2011-04-16T16:15:00.000-06:00

Commissioning Service

2011-04-16T16:07:00.001-06:00

"Yes, by God's grace," was our response as Pastor Moberly officiated the commissioning. Apart from His grace, we could not imagine even one step ahead. Praise God for His amazing grace.

It seemed to me that the commissioning was a little like a wedding and funeral combined. The serious, solemn commitment as a mission and missionaries are joined. The joy of a union with the goal of seeing the name of Jesus glorified. The dying to self, and it's desires and plans. You gotta love a wedding, and a funeral in this sense has a special kind of beauty. The iris flowers were a perfect touch, reminding us of our wedding nearly eight years ago.

Friends and family from Word of Life Free Lutheran, Andy's home church.

March 2011

2011-04-12T10:04:00.000-06:00

Josiah with Godparents, Kirk & Jenn

Josiah- 3 months

Happy 5th Birthday, Moriah! Cousin Katie made her a gorgeous (and delicious!) princess cake.

Hot off the press!

2011-04-01T09:52:00.003-06:00

Our first e-newsletter is hot off the press. Click here to view the e-newsletter. To subscribe, please email us with your request.

Marching Onward

2011-03-08T13:42:00.000-07:00

Saying goodbye is never easy, especially when we have been so blessed by our dear friends in Iowa. This past week was a crazy one, but through it all God's grace was sufficient. Praise God for His limitless grace and boundless love!

Packing up and moving out seemed to be an insurmountable task at times. It's amazing how much "stuff" we accumulated in 2 1/2 years. We were reminded of Philippians 3:7-8 several times. One morning Andy read that text for devotions and explained that compared to Jesus everything else is rubbish. Moriah, who had been listening intently, exclaimed in disbelief, "People are garbage?!" We found it rather hilarious, but Andy was able to explain that while people are very important, our possessions are nothing compared to knowing Christ Jesus our Savior.

We enjoyed fun times with friends during the week, and our hearts overflow with thanks to God for the friends He has given us.

We had a slumber party in our empty house the night before we moved. It wouldn't have been a party with out a slice of Iowa (Casey's pizza) and a good movie (Thomas the Train). In this time of transition, we are so thankful for God's promises in His Word. How encouraging to remember that this world is not our home and that a far better home awaits us!

February in Review

2011-03-07T21:31:00.000-07:00

February began our nomadic lifestyle, also known as missionary deputation. Based out of the parsonage, we were able to keep a normal schedule for portions of each week. We enjoyed visiting and sharing with some great friends and family- what a blessing!

We're finding ourselves spending a lot of time on the computer! From scheduling and planning, to researching and language study, there's plenty of work to be done.

We enjoyed a farewell party with the St. Paul's congregation in mid-February, which was a lot of fun and very encouraging.

Family Time
We were so blessed to spend time with both sides of our family in February. Above Isaiah is enjoying reading a favorite book with Great-Grandad Wilken.

January Recap

2011-03-07T21:23:00.000-07:00

January was packed full of special events as our last month at Salem and St. Paul's came to a close. Annual meetings, Josiah's baptism, confirmation Sunday, and farewell parties marked the calendar. We enjoyed having lots of company, too!

Farewell party at Salem

Josiah's baptism at St. Paul's with Grandpa & Grandma Coyle present

Confirmation Sunday
Andy and his six students had a condensed year of confirmation class, with the grand finale on January 30.

A New Chapter Begins!

2011-02-03T11:48:00.000-07:00

This month begins our new chapter of missionary life. As we embark on the journey ahead, we are so grateful for each of you whom God has called to partner with us. Apart from God's grace and the Body of Christ, we would not be able to move ahead in what God is calling us to. Please know how we praise God for you!

Quite possibly, our first day of deputation was a little picture of what is ahead in the next few months. We packed up the van for an all-day trip to where we'll be sharing with several congregations in the week ahead (although, we drove through a bit of a blizzard in Iowa, so I hope all our travel isn't like that!). While in the van and here at my parents' home, we've been doing a lot of planning, emailing, and researching.

It can be a little overwhelming to think of all the tasks ahead, but we're reminded of God's grace for each day. He has already provided for us in such amazing ways, and we praise Him for His faithfulness- yesterday, TODAY, and tomorrow.

This month we will be presenting in churches on Sundays and some mid-weeks, downsizing our home and preparing to move out of the parsonage, learning Russian, and making other preparations.

Our first newsletter mailing will be going out this month, and if you'd like to receive one, PLEASE let us know! Just visit our EEMN page to contact us with your email/and or US mail address.

Praises:

We may have a home! A house has come up for sale (very rare) in the village in which we'll be serving, and there is a potential for us to buy it. Until now we had planned to live in an apartment in Odessa (a 45-min. bus ride). This is a great opportunity for our family to be very close to the Bible School and those with whom we work.
Passport applications and renewals are on their way!
Language training opportunity for Andy.
Time with family and friends as we travel.

Requests:

Purchasing the house- please pray for the details to be worked out as we seek to buy it, and for God's will to be done in our housing situation.
Language training- please pray for diligence and time-management as we seek to learn the language on our own, and also for details to be worked out for Andy to attend a 3-week Russian training course.
Deputation plans- please pray for the scheduling yet to be done, for our family's health and safety as we travel, and for God's blessings on those whom we meet.
Wisdom- please pray for God's wisdom in guiding us in the decisions we make in this transition time.

Introducing...

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Josiah Donald Coyle joined our family on December 27 at 12:08 a.m. He weighed 6 pounds, 10 ounces and is 20 inches long. He is welcomed with lots of love by Big Sister Moriah & Big Brother Isaiah.

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Merry Christmas!

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Happy Birthday, Jesus!

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December Highlights

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The Christmas Tree Hunt

What about this one?

Helping Daddy chop it down.

The best part of all... the tractor ride back.

The finished product!

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The stockings are hung... even one for the Baby!

Isaiah practices for our piano "duet" during St. Paul's Christmas program. He actually did come up and plunk some tunes with me (unfortunately Daddy was unable to retrieve him) while I accompanied the kids for "Away in a Manger."

Glory to God in the highest! Salem's Christmas Program

The ADVENTure Ahead

2010-12-05T15:20:00.000-07:00

The countdown is in full swing at our home!

Our Advent calendar and chain are ticking down every day as we celebrate the coming of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Moriah and Isaiah eagerly pull off a link each day and the anticipation continues to build. As we look forward to His birthday, we remember God's great love for the world and the greatest Gift we've been given. What a wonderful time of year! Thank you, Lord Jesus, for your love for each of us.

The baby's due date is getting closer and closer each day as well. We eagerly await the arrival of the new addition to our family! It has been so fun to watch Isaiah point to my tummy and explain (through sophisticated gestures) that we should be quiet so our baby can sleep. Moriah can't wait to meet our baby and it has been fun to have her help in getting some things ready. Three more weeks to go!

The big transition from pastoral life to missionary life is approaching quickly. We have less than two months here at Salem and St. Paul's, which is bittersweet. We have been so blessed here the past two-and-a-half years, and it will be difficult to leave. Yet, we are excited for God's plan for us in Ukraine, and with joy look forward to the adventure that awaits. There are many preparations to be made and we appreciate your prayers! We're currently making plans for deputation travel, beginning February 1, and for the mission training phase. Please keep in touch and feel free to email us. Visit EEMN's website for more information and future updates.

May the joy of Advent fill your hearts! O Come, Emmanuel.

Andy, Monica, Moriah & Isaiah

November Highlights- So many reasons to be THANKFUL

2010-11-24T21:43:00.000-07:00

So thankful for Daddy! Happy 30th birthday, Andy! We celebrated the big occasion with Dana, Heather, Micah, Mackenzie & Evelyn. Andy let Isaiah lick the spoon from the Birthday Cake Frosting. And might I add, there is significance behind the capital letters- yummm!

We were in Illinois with our family as we shared our mission presentation at the church where Andy's brother serves as Senior Pastor. We were so blessed to be at Helmar Lutheran and have time together with family.

Who knew Daddy was so tall?! We were able to visit the Brookfield Zoo and the kiddos thoroughly enjoyed it.

Cousin Evelyn joined us for the day- thanks, Evelyn!

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We're so thankful for family! The kids and I enjoyed a weekend trip to meet Grandma & Boppa Olsen and the Wilkens. I was able to watch Katie compete in her speech events- way to go, Katie!

Fun times with cousin Joshua

Nobody tells a story like Grandma :)

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I was honored to be in my friend Rebekah's wedding- Congrats Jeff and Beka!

Kristin and I are counting down the days together... so thankful for you, Kristin!
BTW, long story on why my dress is stained. Question: how does wedding punch manage to be launched across the table by a four-year old and completely soak my face and dress? It was pretty amusing, I have to say :)

October Update

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It has been such a beautiful autumn season here in Iowa this year- gorgeous! October is nearly gone... and we've enjoyed a lot of fun things.

Celebrating Monica's birthday with a tasty dessert :)

We had a church family outing to an apple orchard/pumpkin patch, and as an added bonus, my Mom and cousin were able to be here that weekend. Above is Isaiah's favorite part, no explanation needed.

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Football season is here! Go Vikings!

Isaiah checks out his new duds.

Our bedtime beauty :)

The past few weekends we've been working on downsizing our storage area as we prepare to move in a few months, as well as winterizing the yard and some other projects. One might wonder how to keep the kiddos entertained while I sort through box after box (I sure did). The photo above explains a little of their energy and excitement- they had a blast with their forts and tent-making!

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And we can't forget harvest! It's been a perfect month for combining corn and soybeans here. Andy and the kids enjoyed riding in Mr. Paul's combine a few times. They come back home with the best stories!

No foolin' around

Looks are deceiving here as tractors and combines rate pretty high on Isaiah's list. He still prefers charades and yes/no answers to actual words, so he is quite the character when it comes to expressing himself. My guess is "I'm cold." Any other guesses?

September Travels

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Here are some photos from our time in California & New Mexico. We are so thankful for a great trip! And for the many faces, friends old and new, that we met along the way.

Elk Grove, CA- taking time to feed the ducks.

Isaiah likes the classy, new ride and enjoyed driving around the guest house where we stayed in Salinas.

Moriah was quite pleased with the flower crown from Miss Jessica :)

Gotta love the autumn season!

Fun with friends at the Bunn Farm in Salinas!

We had two hours to spare before we left, and had to make it to the beach even if it was short. This is actually the Monterey Bay just near Cannery Row, but we figured it counts :)

Fall Travels and Ministry Update

2010-10-06T21:05:00.000-06:00

Thank you to all who were praying for us as we traveled to the West Coast for our fall mission deputation. We are so thankful for God's protection and blessings on our trip. The kids traveled very well, we were able to stay healthy, and the travel details fell into place pretty smoothly. We're also very thankful for portable DVD players and GPS systems :)

To keep you updated on our timeline, here is the latest. We have sensed God's call to serve in Ukraine to help start a Lutheran Bible Training Center for lay leaders from Ukraine and former Soviet nations. We are pursuing full-time missions with the AFLC (aflc.org), as missionaries on-loan to EEMN (eemn.org). Both organizations have met in the last month and we are completing the final steps in the process. This fall we are doing some deputation traveling while Andy continues to serve as pastor of Salem & St. Paul's Lutheran Churches (Radcliffe & Jewell, IA). We await the birth of our third child, due in late December. We will begin full-time deputation and mission preparation in February, with hopes to depart for Ukraine next summer.

We appreciate your prayers and encouragement as we continue to depend on the Lord as He leads.
"I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing." John 15:5

If you would like a prayer card or more information about the ministry, please contact us!

Take... Three

2010-09-08T20:14:00.002-06:00

It didn't happen quickly, but in the end we did get a family photo. We're gearing up for some mission travel to the west coast this month. Soon we'll have our first version of our prayer card... that is until our little one joins us in late December and we do this all again :) Thanks for your prayers as we put on about 5,000 miles in the next couple of weeks.

August Fun

2010-09-06T12:40:00.000-06:00

Poor Isaiah... he didn't know what was coming.

The Birthday Boy!

Moriah loved swimming at Lake Okoboji! We met the Wilkens there one afternoon and all had a blast.

Isaiah preferred the sand and trucks.

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VBS 2010

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The kids and I were able to be with the Olsen family for a couple days. The highlight for the kids was attending women's jackpot in Dupree, which Mom helps coordinate. We didn't get to see her barrel race... bummer... but it was 90-95 degrees and Isaiah thought it was awesome to run up and down the grandstand. I, on the other hand, did not.

Isaiah helped Boppa drive the arena tractor.

Susan, Lindsey & Ann sold concessions- thanks for the amazing coffee cooler, Ann!

We love Grandma!

Ann, Katie, Isaiah & I (& Mom's horse)

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Moriah & Isaiah's new best friend: Buford, the pony

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Grandpa & Grandma Coyle were brave souls and took both Moriah and her cousin Lincoln to VBS at their church :) The kids had a blast together, and Moriah was so bummed we couldn't stay for the whole week. Our quick trip was refreshing and Andy and I even got to Panera by ourselves during nap time! When we came back, the kids were enjoying the bounce-around toy G&G have. We wondered if we might be able to use it in our basement this winter?! Ha :)

July Happenings

2010-08-05T19:55:00.000-06:00

We enjoyed a very quick trip back to SD, and packed in a lot of fun times with family. We took in some of Dupree's Centennial, my class reunion, and had a birthday party for Grandad.

Isaiah's highlight was riding with Boppa in the final mile of the Wagon Train Ride. He was very serious about the whole thing, and had a blast. He refused to get off!

We celebrated Grandad's birthday- Happy 84th Grandad!

Joshua & Isaiah... future farmers of America?

It was a hot day for the parade, but we got lots of candy :) Then we packed up and began the trek back to Iowa.

Ukraine Trip- Repost

2010-07-26T15:05:00.000-06:00

During the past year, God has been reminding us of His heart for the nations and nudging us to pursue how we fit with that. The door to Ukraine has been wide open, and it has been hard to deny the call to join others in starting a Bible training center for students Russian-speaking countries. Hence, the big adventure.

Andy spent a lot of time with Pastor Gross, who is directing the Bible training center, as well as serving as pastor of two churches and youth director for the church body. We had a lot of fun staying with his family for our first night in Odessa. They took us to the Black Sea- a beautiful Sunday afternoon stroll. Boy were we tired after that!

Andy and I toured St. Paul's Lutheran Church with Pastor Alexander Gross, and Pastor Bill & Sally Moberly (EEMN Director). This historic church had been turned into a sport hall during communism, later destroyed by a fired, and then restored to a beautiful place of worship.

We met with some ministry leaders with the young adult ministry

We traveled to the village of Petrodolina, 25km from Odessa, for a tour of the Youth Center & Church. The facility is the beginning of the "campus" for the Bible training center, and a second building will be up this summer.

Youth Center & Church in Petrodolina

Block of land for future buildings

We joined Pastor Bill & Sally for a meeting with some educators who are helping plan the upcoming camp in a public school in Petrodolina.

Meeting with a host of the English-Bible Camp ministry being held this summer in Petrodolina

Prayer meeting with youth leaders

Evgenia gave us a tour of the children's ministry center in a nearby village, where she lives and serves. What a great outreach!

A famous opera house in Odessa. We enjoyed walking downtown daily during the days we stayed in Odessa. What a lovely city!

Home Again, Home Again, Jiggity Jig- Repost

2010-07-26T00:21:00.000-06:00

Andy and I returned back to MN, safe and sound after a delayed flight and rescheduled connection flight. Mom & Dad Coyle picked us up, brought us to our van, and a four-hour drive later we were reunited with our kiddos. We met at my cousin Ann's graduation. Eager to see the kids, we were a little surprised when they both completely ignored us! It didn't take too long, and they decided we were okay. Whew!

We spent a day and a half in SD before heading back to IA. It was a great trip, but so good to be home.

The partiers- Moriah and cousin Josh

Tricia, Andy, Lee, Grandad, Dad

The Wilken/Olsen/Coyle clan (minus Jamie who came a bit later)- Congrats Ann & Tricia!

Need help shaving? Just ask Isaiah.

"I guess I did miss you, Mom."

Family dinner... relaxin' with Grandma

Up to mischief

2010-07-25T14:27:00.000-06:00

Camp Olsen Ranch- Repost

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While Andy and I traveled to Ukraine, the kids stayed with my parents for a week. They (both the grandparents and the grandkids) had a blast, and it was hard to tell who was more sad to say goodbye at the end.

Isaiah is pointing out Buford, the miniature horse which you can't see. Buford was a big hit! Moriah rode him four times and was pretty attached. To understand how big of a deal this is, you must first understand: 1) Moriah previously was very "timid" of horses upclose; 2) Buford was a boy, not a girl (not sure why this was an issue); 3) we had some work to do for her to understand that this pony was not pink and didn't talk.

Tractor rides! Isaiah has been talking about Boppa's tractors ever since.

Visiting Grandma Wilken

Isaiah & Joshua enjoying time at a track meet

Moriah was so excited to go to school with Grandma. They both went one day after school was out, which provided the extra bonus: having a tour of a real school bus. It's hard to explain Isaiah's fascination for buses, but it is pretty cute because he says the word really well.

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Moriah is taking swimming lessons and is having a lot of fun. She's being so brave! She went off the diving board twice (with the help of both swimming teachers)!

We had our first "Family 5K Run" during Radcliffe Days- what a blast! I think I'll consider it my "Mommy Marathon" as I wasn't quite up to speed after being sick the week before, and then I ended up pushing the double jogger. But we made it, and it went a lot better than I expected.

We cheered for Daddy as he sped away at the start... and didn't see him until about 30 minutes later :) Way to go, Daddy!

In gearing up for VBS next week, we had a float in Radcliffe's parade. It was a hot day, but the kids did an awesome job and the float looked so nice.

We had a great time with Nick, Emily, Grace & Faith this past weekend! I wish we had gotten some more pics, but here Emily is reading to Grace, Moriah & Isaiah.

Fun in the Sun

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The kids are tending our California poppies- just learned today thought that they're poisonous if eaten!

Isaiah is driving his car... he moves pretty fast around the house!

Moriah and Isaiah enjoyed swimming with Megan & Jon.

The hat- can't be without it. Inside, outside, rain or shine.

We enjoyed touring Des Moine's Blank Park Zoo on an outing with friends from Salem. We had a great time!

Strange how I ended up with mostly pics from the farm animal area! We did see some exotic animals... :)

Moriah was reading books to Isaiah... must have found the best spot for it

One way to beat the heat!

Image Problem

2010-06-28T12:37:00.001-06:00

We're sorry for the problem with our images not showing- we're hoping to have it fixed soon. Please check back!

AFLC Mission Update

2010-06-22T14:46:00.001-06:00

We'd like to share with you a mission update that was recently posted on the AFLC's World Missions Blog. It has been so encouraging to know that many of you are praying for us and are behind us as we pursue God's plans with the Bible training ministry in Ukraine.

Andy Coyles Moving Forward in Missions

Many of you have been aware that Monica and I have been AFLC mission candidates for a few years now. Throughout our years in Seminary, we had planned to pursue full-time missions in Russia, with a Bible School ministry. Due to visa complications, that door closed. At that time, we sensed great peace in serving in parish ministry. It has been a great joy for us to serve Salem and St. Paul’s Lutheran in Iowa.
Over the course of this past year, an opportunity came before us to help start a Bible school in Ukraine. We have been praying about this open door for quite some time. In mid-May, Monica and I traveled to Odessa, Ukraine to pursue the possibility of this ministry. We traveled there to get a glimpse of the Church and the Bible School ministry, of which we have been invited to be part. God has made it very clear to us that He is calling our family to move to Ukraine to help them continue to rebuild after years of devastation wrought by an atheistic ideology.
Plans are moving forward on our end as well as in Ukraine. Our tentative timeline includes continuing to serve at Salem & St. Paul’s in Iowa at least through January 2011. During this time, we will begin a limited level of deputation and language training, as well as prepare for the arrival of our third child in December. We anticipate finishing deputation, participating in a missionary training seminar, and further Russian studies before departing for Ukraine in summer 2011. We are depending on the Lord’s wisdom, guidance and provision for these steps. Would you pray with us as we seek God’s will for our family and the Bible training ministry in Ukraine? We appreciate your prayer and encouragement so much.
In Christ’s Love,
Pastor Andy & Monica Coyle

Home again, home again, jiggity jig

2010-06-21T21:30:00.000-06:00

The partiers

Tricia, Andy, Lee, Grandad, Dad

The Wilken/Olsen/Coyle clan (minus Jamie who came a bit later)- Congrats Ann & Tricia!

Need help shaving? Just ask Isaiah.

"I guess I did miss you, Mom."

Family dinner... relaxin' with Grandma

Up to mischief

Trip to Ukraine

2010-06-21T19:46:00.000-06:00

Andy and I had the opportunity to travel to Odessa, Ukraine, May 15-22, to explore the possibility of serving with a Bible training ministry. As many of you know, we had been preparing to serve in Russia with full-time missions as Andy was finishing seminary. The door closed due to visa restrictions, and we sensed God's call to serve in pastoral ministry.

During the past year, God has been reminding us of His heart for the nations and nudging us to pursue how we fit with that. The door to Ukraine has been wide open, and it has been hard to deny the call to join others in starting a Bible training center for students Russian-speaking countries. Hence, the big adventure.

We met with some ministry leaders with the young adult ministry

Youth Center & Church in Petrodolina

We joined Pastor Bill & Sally for a meeting with some educators who are helping plan the upcoming camp in a public school in Petrodolina.

Meeting with a host of the English-Bible Camp ministry being held this summer in Petrodolina

Prayer meeting with youth leaders

Evgenia gave us a tour of the children's ministry center in a nearby village, where she lives and serves. What a great outreach!

A famous opera house in Odessa. We enjoyed walking downtown daily during the days we stayed in Odessa. What a lovely city!

Camp Olsen Ranch

2010-06-21T19:26:00.000-06:00

Tractor rides! Isaiah has been talking about Boppa's tractors ever since.

Visiting Grandma Wilken

Isaiah & Joshua enjoying time at a track meet

May Days

2010-06-21T18:58:00.000-06:00

I'm not sure I have a good explanation as to why the kiddos are posing for pictures on the newly cleaned bathroom rugs... in the kitchen... in their pajamas. That's what I get for taking so long to update this blog!

We had a ride in the quad-track (I believe that's right) at the Handaker's- thanks, Dave! Isaiah is forever grateful.

We had a blast when Matt, Tana, Siri & Soren Olson visited us for a weekend.

Fun with Lincoln

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Springtime on the farm!

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Easter and springtime

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Grandpa & Grandma Olsen came for Easter and we had a great weekend together.

We hunted for Easter eggs at the local elementary school. Moriah was pretty shy about it, but enjoyed it in the end. Isaiah apparently didn't understand that we should wait to start collecting eggs until they say 'go' :) He had a good time, too.

Moriah loves to ride her bike now! Isaiah is king of the tricycle now :)

My spring cleaning helpers :)

Refreshing Family Time

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Miscellaneous March

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Thankfully spring is just about here! To keep occupied in the house, we've taken up cross country skiing (a.k.a. wearing Daddy's shoes around the house).

One more snowman... bigger and better than the last. Unfortunately (or fortunately?) he lost his facial features and limbs pretty soon after the picture was taken. Spring has come! Well, mostly. Yesterday we received another inch of snow, but it doesn't look like it will stay too long.

An Interview with Isaiah

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Happy 4th Birthday, Moriah!

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March

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February

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My Valentines!

Reading some Valentine's Day books with Daddy

Moriah, Isaiah and I traveled to Rapid City, SD for a girls retreat that I helped with in mid-February. Grandma Coyle came with us and we also saw a lot of family in Sd. Needless to say it was a fun-filled trip! The kids enjoyed swimming with Uncle Lee & Aunt Jamie (above), and of course, time with their Grandparents (below)!

January

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How can we best summarize January? Snow would be a good word to begin with. We've had a lot of it! This has been Iowa's 4th snowiest winter in recorded history. We've recorded a few memories of the snow for ourselves...

In January we were blessed to have some of our buddies visit us for a few days. Moriah and Will had a blast, as well as Isaiah and Leah.

Fun at Grandpa & Grandma Coyle's

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Welcome, 2010!

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Our new pets- thanks, Lee & Jamie! L to R: Princess Anastasia, Katya, Brett Favre, & Cowboy

Footnote: Since this picture was taken, Princess Anastasia & Katya have "fallen asleep in the water." :( My theory is that the boys ate all the food. An alternate theory is that Moriah may have fed them on her own? Not sure. We're hoping to keep these guys alive though!

Grandma & Grandpa Olsen's House

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Moriah had a makeover from Aunt Jamie- haircut & pedicure!

Football fanatics at their finest :)

Moriah went to school with Grandma for a morning and had a great time.

Christmas 2010

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Moriah opens a present on Christmas Eve

Last-minute creative planning for shopping during a blizzard... tricky. The smile on Andrew's face... priceless :)

Christmas Eve at home- Services were canceled as we had some bad weather :(

We enjoyed a special Christmas Eve with the Hendersons.

Christmas morning!

Happy Birthday, Jesus!

Yum! Birthday cake at 10am! This Christmas afforded us some new traditions, one of which was Isaiah's highlight (hint: dessert!).

Moriah models her cheerleading outfit, thanks to Tim & Jamie.

Our little farmer was quite pleased with his miniature tractor, grain truck and anhydrous tank :)

Getting Ready for the Party

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Goodbye, curls!

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Isaiah had his first (official, that is) haircut today. I managed to save some curls for his baby book. He didn't mind too much, thanks to the snacks and distractions :)

Moriah, the Angel

2009-12-22T19:54:00.000-07:00

Moriah was so excited to be an angel in St. Paul's Christmas program- don't let the shy face fool you :) This top photo was just the practice run. She did a great job and had fun.

Christmas is Coming!

2009-12-22T19:52:00.000-07:00

We decorated our tree and I wish I had taken a "before" picture... the "after" that we currently have is pretty impressive! Isaiah has taken it upon himself to redecorate the tree daily.

Even Violet (Moriah's doll) gets a stocking this year!

Moriah and Isaiah made reindeer snacks- Moriah was our chef and Isaiah was the taste tester.

O Christmas Tree

2009-12-06T19:23:00.000-07:00

We found our Christmas tree, chopped it down (yay, Daddy!), and then got a ride on the wagon as the tractor pulled us back. Isaiah loved the tractor and loves to make the tractor sounds (tha-tha! bub-bub-bub). Moriah loved the kringla cookies and cider we had afterwards as we warmed up. It was so cold!

The tractor :) Isaiah was pretty interested in watching the tree being shaken and tied.

December 2009

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November 2009

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