Mark's in Russia!

We hope everyone had a very Merry Christmas!

We enjoyed spending time at home and had a wonderful, fun filled Christmas dinner with some of our friends and their families. Twenty four people came to our house! We ate great food, played games, and enjoyed being together.
We stayed in Georgia for Christmas this year because Mark was leaving the day after Christmas to go on a mission trip to Russia. Since we were home "alone", it was fun to gather with friends to celebrate the day together!

Mark left Monday for his trip. We have heard from him twice so far. I am so excited for him and can't wait for him to come home and share all of the wonderful thing God has done through him and the team.

Here's an update he sent to us today:

Things are going well here. We had a busy day today and everyone is tired. I still can't get used to the idea that it is the middle of the afternoon there and it is way past my bed time here!
Today we split up into two groups and went to two different Harbor locations. I was with Paul, Rick, Bill and Charlie at the girls dorm / apartment doing renovation work. I think between morning tea, (and cookies) lunch, and afternoon tea, (and yes, more cookies), we were actually able to get some of the work done! :-) We left a liitle bit for tomorrow so we can go back and have more cookies!!
Everyone is so nice here. I was worried yesterday because of the overall feeling you get at first glance, but once you get to know people you get a glimpse of the hope and love they have here. It is pretty neat! I'm even picking up a little of the language from our fabulous translators!
I love you and miss you and wish you were right here with me experiencing all that I am and will be on this trip. God is so good! Again, give my love to all and have a fabulous afternoon! I'm going to see if anyone needs any help before I turn in for my beauty rest! I'm long overdue and it shows!!
Love you bunches!!



We miss him too! I am so proud of him and love that he has a heart for missions!
Please pray for him and the team.
Pray for their safety.
Pray for their time in Russia, that every person they work with and meet will be blessed by their service.
Pray for their strength and energy as they deal with the nine hour time difference.

Thank you!

In Him,
The Tates

"The Lord will keep you from all harm, He will watch over your life. The Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore. " Psalm 121:7-8