Finally fall!

Growing up in Colorado, fall was always my favorite season. I have great memories of taking drives through the mountains to see all of the Aspen leaves changing colors. For the past 8 years I have lived in the land of heat and palm trees. I have missed fall! When I told some friends up here in Alaska that I was so excited to finally live somewhere with four seasons they just laughed. Apparently they think that the very short fall we have here before the snow comes doesn't count- but I know better! I am soaking up every crisp, crunchy day!

Hiking on the trail that starts in our yard

It has been a very full month so far! Steve is really enjoying teaching his math courses as well as the Old Testament course. He says that teaching in this environment is very different from any he has experienced before. Not only does he get to invest in the students academically, but he is also involved in their day to day lives in a way he has never been at any school before.  

Steve's Old Testament Class

 Chapel Time

First time students receive their bibles from ACC. For many this is the first bible they will receive.

 Our friend Simone, from AZ, who served as campus pastor for a week

Since the beginning of August I have been working part time in the development office helping to raise operating costs for Alaska Christian College. One of my tasks is to help the other support-raised missionaries connect with people who share their vision for Alaskan Natives. I enjoy my work, but the best part about my job is the fact that I get to spend all day while the kiddos are at school working on campus along-side our incredible students. My office is right next to Steve's (we have dubbed it the Hallam wing) and we get to serve in this ministry together.  I enjoy the daily breaks in my regular tasks for time with students during story (testimony) time, chapel, and mentoring times. 

Mentoring time with Marlene making kuspuks

 Noah modeling his new kuspuk

Thank you so much for all of your prayers and notes of encouragement.  I can't tell you how much they mean to us! You can't imagine the difference they make. Please continue to pray for our students. We still have full retention, which is a total miracle! Many of our students have a lot to overcome, but they are in the best possible place to succeed. With your prayers and support we truly feel like we are making a difference in the lives of these students.

Some of our students at the beach