'13 Fall: Volleyball

Our fall semester is our busiest as we jump right into volleyball season. Tryouts are in the first week of school; then we begin a rigorous, demanding schedule of practices and games. Through it all, though, we find that coaching is one of the best ways to encourage and influence teenagers. When they are doing something they love, with their friends, and getting better at it, they are much more teachable and open to truth. We do our best to exemplify good character and teach them much more than the sport. We pray that these volleyball players will see Jesus through their time with us on the courts.

Coby helps carry the team's water bottles.

The season itself runs from August through the end of October. Within that time, we also participated in two tournaments--one hosted by our school and the other was located in Bangkok, Thailand. We couldn't believe it when we heard that we would get to take our team to our "home." What a blessing it was to make that trip together as a family--to a place we know and with a language we can manage. Our friends in Bangkok also came to see us and offered their help with our children. Overall, it was such an inspiring time for everyone. We enjoyed the tournament as well as the city, our players as well as our family.

Besides volleyball, Mark and Malia jumped back into the normal routines of the school year. Mark began teaching his classes of computer and digital media, and Malia began volunteering at Seoul International Playgroup. Together, we volunteer at AWANA as well.

Our children are growing and learning. Mika and Coby began preschool at home with Malia, and we go through a new letter each week. They are learning eagerly, working as a team on projects and practicing their writing. It's a privilege to spend this time with them at home.

Mika's Jungle Party for her 5th birthday

Our baby Konane is now a toddler. She is walking around and learning to speak. Thankfully, it seems her screaming spells are on their way out, but her strong will is around to stay. We pray that she will use her determination and volume to direct others to Jesus and speak truth plainly and boldly. Already, she brings much joy, and we also pray that she will continue to shine with this quality.

Kona Mae shows us her sour face!

Thank you for praying for our family. Here are our specific needs as we enter winter:

• Now that our volleyball season is over, we host occasional events for our team, meet for open-gyms weekly, and plan to disciple them once the new semester begins in January. Please pray for our influence on these teenagers--that they will see Jesus.
• We will be traveling to Hawaii for our Christmas vacation. Please pray for rest as we visit family and celebrate this special season.
• Malia has begun a new blog to reach women in cross-cultural situations. Please pray for wisdom and connection as she pursues this writing opportunity. You can read more about her blog here. 

Merry Christmas, everyone!