Connected!?

Thank you so tremendously for your patience. We have battled since returning to the field to get an Internet connection here by almost any means. Previously, we had connected through the phone company because there was a line here on the farm that was not being used. We contacted them, they flipped a switch and off we went. This time, we were told there were no lines available. That usually means unless you slip a good "tip" under the table. We passed.

On May 1, the law changed that forces the government monopoly to allow other companies to use the lines they have already established. The "other" companies advertised that as soon as the law went into effect, they could open up connections to any town that already has phone lines. WRONG. The law is now in effect, but the agreements with the mother company are still on the table (or the boat or outer space). Nothing has changed since last year. So, we are outside of the area where they have expanded. Even Jon, who lives much closer to town cannot change his connection.

Last month, Cheyenne went to the phone company and stated she wanted the new Internet only connection with them (something that had not been offered before). They called the main office to see if it was available at our location. The home office responded that everything was good. She made a contract, they gave her the modem and then later called to tell her that there was no place to connect the line in the box on the street. We will have to wait until someone else cancels their connection tot give us a slot. Another "tip" is hinted at. 

This weekend we chatted with our neighbor who only uses his connection of the evening. Jon is coming on Saturday to connect a line directly to his modem. We then will split the service and the cost. Are there problems in not living in the center of town? Yes. But it is still worth it to us to be some place farther from the actions in town. Thank you for praying for patience for us. It had about run out!

Ann is doing somewhat better physically, but she still has battles with her Essential Tremor. Many of the medications used to treat this are very effective for a period of time. Then they must be changed to continue to function. She has tried a couple of different ones, but they each caused other complications. She seems to be stronger physically but tires very rapidly when exerting much effort. 

I, Gary, have (finally) recuperated well from my surgery in April. I expected and instant bounce back. I did fine as far as the surgery, but I noticed that I was dragging for quite a while afterward. At one of my check-ups, I asked my doctor why it was not like before as far as a quick return. His answer was, "Gary, there is a reason why the pages keep turning on the calendar." In other words, you're getting older! We praise the Lord for the health we have and that we are able to continue when many are unable. Most of our friends are retired and we haven't even thought of retirement yet. We realize that life is just a vapor, but are thankful we are still able to produce steam.

We are working with the deaf as we do the regular maintenance on the church building. It is being painted for the first time since the original paint job (1995). We have a good number helping, even though there are a few who "just bought oxen and need to see how they plow." Some are just made that way! Many are excited to see how nice it looks. Fortunately, there are no major repairs, primarily just cosmetic. We are thankful again that we are able to work along side of them and not just be a fixture sitting and watching. Lord willing, Ramiro (68 years old) and I will do the repairs at the roof line, second floor, because others have no idea how to start. Pray for safety.

Thank you for praying. Please continue to pray for new ones, souls to be saved regularly and spiritual maturity in this desperately wicked world. Thank you for your financial support which allows us to be a part of God's work. May He greatly bless you today.

Gary & Ann