Made it to the playoffs!

This is my favorite time of the year! Fall! The aspen are changing, the leaves are falling, the sky is gray, the sweatshirts are out, the marching bands are playing and the footballs are flying! Yes! How I love fall. Thanksgiving Day is my favorite day of the year and November my favorite month, but October tells me that it's right around the corner! Yes!!

Dennae and Jami's softball team has gone through a dramatic time this season. Their coach resigned due to a series of run-ins and conflicts with some parents and players. Another gal stepped in and did an admirable job. My friend, Andy Roob, agreed to help out as an assistant; he's brought a lot to the team. But in spite of all that, they made district playoffs and will go down to Aurora to play next weekend, October 16-18. This is also most likely Dennae's last year to play (she has another year of eligibility - but would rather get a job she says); Jami has a couple to go. They have both improved dramatically, and it's been fun to watch Dennae at shortstop and Jami in center field throughout the year. They've played really well; we'll see how they do in the tournament. I'll keep you posted. The pictures are of their last regular season game and the "farewell seniors" party they had afterward. Jami "roasted" Dennae during the whole thing; it was quite funny.

Michael's football team made the playoffs too. I've been an assistant coach on his team, and that's been a lot of fun too. Ivy's soccer team is doing very well also. They should move up to the next level, Premier 2, after this season. Everybody seems to be doing well in school. Michael continues to excel on the tuba. I also feel like we are going through a season of spiritual growth as a family. That's been very encouraging.

Noel continues to work hard in a very difficult real estate market. We've started a little side business with the rest of the DeVries family out here, and her real estate experience has been an invaluable tool in getting this business up and running.

The church continues to grow, thank the Lord! I am excited about what God has called us to and enabled us to do. Please pray for us! Trust you all are continuing to grow in the grace and knowledge of Christ yourselves!

Don't forget the pics at the bottom of the blog.

For Christ's sake,

MJD,Sr.