Hello friends and family,  

Happy Summer, everyone!  We have transitioned into a new season here, as the rains have begun.  I am always amazed at the drastic change and how it feels like a switch has been flipped, turning on the water from the sky!  Gone are the dusty roads, the mud has arrived!

Andy is gradually getting better.  He still struggles with pain from his broken tailbone, headaches, dizziness, and balance issues. He is getting back into his normal work routine, and he is back on the mower again. He plans to stay out of the fields, though.  During this time of healing, he has been working on recording our history for the book he feels called to write.  Our lives have been filled with so many God stories that need to be preserved and shared to encourage others.

Regarding the wooden house we purchased several months ago, we have decided to hold off moving it here until the site is prepared.  We planned to place it on cement support columns and raise the house 8 ft above the ground. Then, eventually, we can enclose the bottom space for additional use. For now, there is a lot of dirt moving going on around the property.  The fish pond by the orchard has been started.  We are using the topsoil from there to level out low areas, ruts, and holes.  The goal is to make the grounds easier to mow and maintain.  Jose and Pablo cleared the ground behind the shop, and we are bringing in fill for a parking area..  While they were working, they located the nest of bees that attacked Andy and proceeded to burn the nest!  They had a fire going for several hours, as bees kept coming back.

This month, we were contacted by a local teenage boy who is participating in a program called Men of Honor, sponsored by a local church. One of their requirements is for the young men to give of their time and talents in a service project. He wanted to know if he could come serve here with us for two Saturdays, and maybe bring others to help. Jonathan came with three more teens and one adult leader, and they worked hard! We were so impressed with their great attitudes, and it was fun to be with them. Andy shared a biblical challenge with them after lunch. This was a big encouragement to us.  

On a personal note, June 28th was our 50th Wedding Anniversary!  We spent 3 days and two nights at a nice resort on the beach in Hopkins to celebrate. The years have passed by so fast. When the Lord brought us together at Northeastern Bible College, l never dreamed of the adventures that would come. Andy promised me life would not be boring with him, and he was right! God is so good!  Thanks for your prayers and support.  We really enjoy hearing from you, too. 

Prayer request

• Praise God that we are still able to serve Him here in Belize!
• Pray for good health and wisdom as we serve the people here.
• Pray for the planning of the next driving team and shipment, including the finances needed to complete the project.
• Pray that the remaining part arrives next week for the refrigerator, and that the repair will be complete.
• Pray for a replacement engine, or a replacement vehicle for the Ford Escape!

Nancy & Andy Merrick