I was so happy to get this site and it has helped some friends from the past (including high school) to locate me but I never get around to maintaining it so… here’s a suggestion…  I have a site with lots of pictures posted at  http://joymanda.multiply.com  PLEASE check it out.  You will see pictures I have taken hee in the Philippines.  If you check it out and then have any questions feel free to drop a note and I will respond.  The Philippines is a wonderful place.  You may hear of unrest, extremest groups, corruption, poor economy and people with great needs.  All of these are issues but  they do not threaten my physical safety.  God is working here in the Philippines and He has directed me to this place at this time.  I cannot think of any place where I’d rather be!

With a smile~     Joy

I had told you about Doods and his Kidney failure.  He was confined to his home for quite a while (with the exception of dialysis).  On his final day on this earth – his final moments – he asked for a cold Diet Coke and then raised his weakened arms and said, "Into Thy hands I commit my spirit," and he died peacefully.

His wife continues on as an usher at church.  Being involved and smiling a lot as she trusts God for her life.

Every year, just before spring break, we have a track and field day.  For the event all the kids are put onto one of four teams.  Each team has children from all age groups.  Each child signs up for several activities.  The longest race is a 3K.  The 3K is also open to adults from the community.  On the less strenuous end there is the Frisbee throw. 

This year we had perfect weather!  It was overcast in the morning during the long races.  Everyone had fun.  The high school kids also come over for the event and help us (the teachers) to run the events.  I had two high school kids helping with the standing broad jump – one measured and one raked the sand.  By the way, one of my 4th graders jumped a full 5′6" in this event!

At the end of the day the high school kids run the last marathon – "The miracle mile."

After track and field we have parent teacher conferences.

It’s a great way to bring an end to the third quarter of the school year.