Diane and I feel we raised the greatest family ever, six wild, crazy, exciting and unique individuals kinda like the ranch? wild, crazy and always exciting, and then after they became adults they just left us, abandant hmmmmm.
For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord , “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. (Jeremiah 29:11-13 NIV)
Building bunk beds with Blaine, and awana races twice a year. Safety patrolling and learning to ride his 50 Honda was always great fun.
Dates out with Jacqui and road trip picnics on the Harley. To watch her doing the neighbours girls hair in braids with lots of care. Times spent telling bed time stories and tickling her back to sitting at the office desk as we designed the next space baby and Jacqui telling me, your the best dad ever.
Dealing with Joey and all the pipes and garden hoses with fountains and floods everywhere then the attempt to get him cleaned up and in for supper with out a mess every where. Racing soap box derby cars and getting his divers license all created memories and excitement fit for a very blessed mom and dad.
Then Came Mike every bit as special as the others with the gift that keeps on giving to this very day. He was our Ferdinand, Mike always kept us caring and loving each other with his gentle smile and loving laughter. He loved our many pets and always needed to know what our workers had in thier lunch boxes. One day I brought home a set of drums to see who would grab hold of the sticks and play and that's when the new Ringo star began.
Then Jimmy bounced into the family and bouncing he never stopped. Off of furniture and building wacking his head under our chuck wagon playhouse. Ripping off and chewing every piece of used gum under every table. Never a dull moment and many a baby sitters ready to walk out after a short time with Jimmy.
Now for one of the greatest tests of ones faith as a new pregnancy and another expected blessing but then serious complications and being told that this child will not survive. But by the grace of almighty God, one miracle after another and four months in hospital we were blessed with a beautiful 7lbs7oz baby girl strong and healthy and another one of God's blessings to us and his kingdom.
Diane and I have been blessed at every stage of our children's lives. The journey not always easy but always an opportunity to draw us closer to God.
Today we desperately miss the hussel and bussel around our home, but we are and always will be thankful for each of our precious children, and the strong men and women of God they have become. Mom and I love you all for ever and ever.
PS. Now with nine incredible grandchildren we are in complete recovery
WE NEED YOUR HELP
TO DONATE : If you are able to and would like to make a very needed and appreciated donation to this worthy project that is changing lives now and forever right here at home PLEASE consider making a donation to:CROSSMAN MINISTRIES / BRRC or visit our web site for direct donating, thank you very much we cannot do it alone.
As a registered charity your tax deductable receipts will be sent out at the end of the year. Once again we thank you from the bottom of our hearts for considering The Battle River Ranch Camp a life skills and trades introduction opportunity, as a option to encourage men and women and to support financially, an option that is making a differance in the lives of our young men and women right here at home in Canada.
Harold & and Diane Stephan and the board of Directors of the Battle River Ranch Camp.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL US AT 1-3O6-825-7734 or 1-780-205-4743
God bless each and everyone
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