This is the group pic from our staff conference. Over a thousand staff serving in Eastern Europe and Russia. 60-70% are national staff - serving in their own country. We're on the front row if you can see us. 

The Area Staff Conference - A Great Success!

Yes, the Area Staff Conference was a tremendous success! We heard over and over again how our staff, both nationals and ex-pats, were enjoying the conference. They felt the teaching of the Bible and the worship times deeply ministered to them. They enjoyed hearing from one another. They enjoyed the video reports from the different countries, etc. Drew worked very hard on the program with a great team of men and women. Their efforts really paid off! Pictures coming!

We (just Joan and Drew) had a chance to slip away to Spain for a few days. We went to the Southern coast near Malaga. It was beautiful and sunny. Not as warm as we wanted, but much warmer than Budapest. 

Claire turned 3 years old on Jan. 24th! She's such a big girl now. She enjoyed a new doll from Grammy. She likes her "babies." She is such a blessing to us! 

January 2005 Update

January is in full speed ahead for our family. Nate and Grant are back in school at the Intl.Christian School of Budapest. Because Joan worked with the boys over the three-week break, they were well-prepared to re-engage in their education. We are also gearing up to be at the Area Staff Conference between January 17-23. When Claire turns 3 on January 24th, she will start going to Hungarian Kindergarden part time. We are blessed and look forward to this new year! Drew

The Area Staff Conference Coming Soon

January 17 -24 in Hungary all the CCC staff from E. Europe and Russia will gather for a conference that only happens every three years. This is a time to encourage our staff in their walks with the Lord and in their ministries. It is also great to hear what the Lord is doing throughout the region. Drew has a big role as the program director for the conference. There is a great program in process. Our key speaker will be Dr. Joe Stowell of Moody Bible Institute. More news to come.

Joan sings Kareoke with some friends during our New Year's Eve party. We had a great evening with some friends over a 6 course meal. Our friend Steve Rodd did a great job of cooking. We've never eaten so well!