Today, looking outside the picture window that looks on Shear Lake, we see the glory of God displayed in pristine white. The pine trees are heavy laden with layer upon layer of snow. It is beautiful! We greatly enjoy the change of seasons.

The months of November and December at camp are a nice change from the intensity of the summer and fall camping seasons. Some call these our "off" months, because there are no groups camping. We use these months for preparing for winter retreats, and for maintenance jobs (that can only be done when there are not many mouths to feed). We continue to meet as a staff on Wednesday mornings for a time of Bible study, fellowship and lunch which Dave and I prepare. Occasional small groups come for special projects that we also prepare meals for.

November is also the time we take vacations. Dave went to the U.P. with his hunting buddies - no big buck this year, but he enjoyed his time there. Betsy had the privilege of going to Florida for a week with her two sisters and five of her nieces. It was warm and sunny where we stayed. We came back refreshed and rested.

We are looking forward to going downstate and spending time with our family. Then, between Christmas and New Years, some of the group will return to Barakel for three days of winter fun. We'll stay in two of camp's lodges and enjoy our meals together at the ES dining hall.

We are thankful to the Lord that in this journey of faith we do not travel alone. Our Savior nourishes us; his presence sustains us. He has left us his Word and the precious promises in that Word. He has also given us traveling companions like you, who with your prayer support and financial giving, encourage us in the faith. Because we have God's strength and provision to rely on - we are able to continue on. We always thank God for YOU as we remember you in our prayers.

In Christ,

Dave and Betsy Proper
Philemon 4-7