2013 was a big year for the Kuykendalls.
One of the high points was finally buying a home after 2 ½ years of renting following our move to Woodburn. Our house is a few miles south of town and is on almost 20 acres. Some may say that it’s foolish for a minister to waste his time farming. I would reply that I'm not as interested in growing corn or cattle as I am growing boys, and there’s no better place to do just that. We are very thankful to have our own place out in the country and look forward to farm life and all its trappings.
Another highlight was taking my (BJ) sons, Jared and Jesse, with me to Mexico on a mission trip with our church. I was so proud of how hard they worked and how well they handled a VERY different environment. The trip stretched us, grew us, and reminded us just how blessed we are. “To whom much is given much is required.”
Our good friends, the Johnsons took us to Disneyland in October. We were able to keep the whole trip a surprise until we got to the airport-and boy were they ever surprised! The hotel, the food, the sunshine, the friends, the rides; it was all wonderful!
On a sadder note, Elaine’s mother, Connie, passed away on August 27th after a long battle with multiply myeloma. We thought we were going to lose her the previous August, but the LORD graciously extended her life for one more year. Connie had a relatively good quality of life until the very end. We really miss her-you’re never ready to lose a parent- but we are thankful for all the good times we shared and full of hope that we will one day see her again in heaven.
Sometimes life seems slow, but when you are looking back it seems so fast. I can’t believe how much are boys are growing. They are learning how to be godly men and will no doubt be lights for JESUS in this dark world. Here are a few things worth noting:
-We attended the Christian Heritage Homeschooling and Family Discipleship conference in April, and got to stay with Uncle Mike and Aunt Candy.
-Jared, Jesse, and Justin participated in Bible Bee over the summer and memorized a LOT of Bible verses.
-Jared went Elk hunting for the first time and did a great job.
-Jesse can often be found hunting starlings on our property, wrestling brothers, or baking cookies for his mama. (He's become quite the baker.)
-Justin joined his two older brothers in taking piano lessons with Donna Coleman.
-John is learning how to read and is always ready to help with outside chores.
-Judson learned how to ride a bicycle and continues to have boundless energy.
-Joshua and Josiah, our twins, always keep us entertained with their antics! It is a joy to watch the differences in their personalities develop.
-We got a puppy in December and named him Jack.
BJ continues to pastor the Hoodview Church of God, Elaine continues to home school the boys and manage the household, and the boys continue to keep our hands full (in a good way)!
May the good Lord bless you and yours this season.
Merry Christmas!
1 comments:
You guys are such a blessing and inspiration! Love from the Parypa family.
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