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Just an Update

A quick synopsis on life:
-The school year is well under way, and we are enjoying the change in routine.  It's been encouraging to see that most of the girls enjoy going to school and work hard to do well.  We are able to maintain a bit more sanity ourselves now that we have time carved into our day to accomplish the "job-like" tasks of houseparenting (paperwork, phone calls, faxes, appointments, meetings, menu planning) before we give ourselves completely to the girls upon their arrival at 3:30pm. 
-We were excited to welcome a new youth to Barton this week!  She is nine years old and a bundle of joy.  We shed tears of joy (okay, I did) as we were able to watch her reunite with her sister who lives next door on campus.  They had not seen each other for over a year. 
-Although daily life is a rollercoaster, we are encouraged that in some ways, we are moving forward with the girls and continuing to build trust and the kind of relationships that will foster faith and hope.
-We met with the two ladies who represent our sponsor church (Second Presbyterian Church of Little Rock) on Friday and it was such an encouragement.  They showered us, the home, and the girls with blessings and talked with us about all the ways they can support us this year - they plan to drop off monthly care packages with things the girls need/like/want.  


Prayer Pleas(e):
-Pray for our soon-to-be 18-year-old whose birthday is this week.  At that point, it will be her decision whether or not to stay in care and continue to follow the recommendations of the court which would be in her best interest and allow her to achieve her goals for next year which include college, etc.  She is pretty determined to stay here and in care, but we know a lot could change on her birthday. Please pray she is given an extra dose of wisdom and self-control this week and that we can have a positive influence.
-Pray for us as we prepare for our first long in-home observation this month and the annual board visit where we will be hosting several special guests.
-Pray for us to be patient and kind.  To not be proud or self-seeking.  Pray we have everything we need to truly love.

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