Rachel is 40 today! To mark this special year we did a small overnight trip in Manito- woc. Rach loves to ride bikes, so we planned to do some leisurely biking together (6 of us). The weather was drizzling and cold the first day, but that wouldn't stop a diehard like Rachel...she and Dad zoomed off for 45 minutes in the rain. She's already done many week-long biking trips in her life, and now a new road bike will give her some extra speed for those long endurance days.

Rachel is a good friend. Because she was my older sister, I couldn't help but look up to her, and she was a wonderful example for me. We have many things in common, and that's a good start to having a great pal! She actively listens and cares about what you're saying. She is kind-hearted and patient. God uses those skills in her job as a High School counselor.

A big round of applause for my lovely sister! HAPPY BIRTHDAY RACHEL!

Virginia Olive (Warren) Gasper

January 18, 1923 - May 30, 2009

Cheerful servant,
Dedicated writer,
Wise listener,
Loving wife and mother.

Forgiven because of Christ's sacrifice,
Child of God.
Home with Him.


(photo taken 3-21-09)

Justin is 29 today! He has extreme talent in computer programming, technology, and electronics. Pretty handy around the house. Knows the balance between serious conversation and 'being funny all the time'. Loves his wife. Helps at his church. Responsible. Loves God. A good worker. Generous to others. Just a really nice guy with fine character and true integrity. Love you Justin. HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!

Cincinnati was the gathering place. A reunion for John's side of the family. God's Sovereign Plan allowed many of the family to meet this weekend, but there was an unexpected turn about 20 days ago when John's mother went into the hospital. We spent Saturday sharing memories, visiting Ginnie in the hospital, and saying our goodbyes. She is very sick. Dealing with pain and bad news, she made the choice to enter hospice. We are sad, but rejoicing that she trusts only in Jesus Christ as the way of salvation, and she is a child of the Almighty God.

The leader for our Junior High girls group had a year-end hot tub party at her home. It was a chilly evening, but the girls were jumping on the trampoline, swinging from the tree swing, and chatting as they enjoyed the hot tub. Then some brave souls wanted to try out the pool (though Penny warned them it was probably only 40 degrees). It was 1) jump in the pool 2) scream and have startled faces 3) jump out.

My mom and dad enjoyed being parents. They loved us so much they took the time to train, discipline, laugh, teach, have fun, listen, and play. The four of us kids were each unique and different. I know we caused exasperation and anxiety for our parents as we grew up. But I didn't doubt their love for us.

My mom is a great example to me. I am honoring her on this special day by standing up to say "She is a blessing in my life!"

This picture shows me as a newborn, being held in my mother's lap. My sister is inquisitively looking on.

My nephew Titus turned 6 last week. I don't have any recent pictures of him, so these photos are about a year old. Titus is a kind boy, quietly compassionate towards others. Then, in a flash, he's darting around and yelling, playing exuberantly. He enjoys mechanical items, puzzles, and taking things apart, so we'll have to watch where his engineering mind takes him in life. He joins his brother in outside activities, finding bugs being a favorite. HAPPY BIRTHDAY TITUS!