THANKSGIVING AND BIRTHDAYS

Last Thursday most of the Tillis family gathered together at our house to celebrate Thanksgiving and Mom/Grandma Tillis's birthday. Even Grandma Hall (95 years old) joined us -- her first time to visit our home since we've lived here! We missed Coleen, Jerry, Sam & Ty but had a great day eating, laughing and enjoying each other. Next Tillis get-together: December 29!

Pics above are of the "kids table" (ages 5-15) and Grandma and the girls.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO US

This month marks Eric & Maria's 10 year spiritual birthday! In November 1997 we were "born again" into a new life with Christ. After 28 years of living according to our own plan, we found the hope that we had been looking for -- a promise of eternal life in heaven with God and peace while we live on earth. We never knew that it could be so simple -- acknowledging that we were sinners, in need of Jesus to reunite us with God. We asked Him to be the Lord of our lives and the past 10 years have been full of God's blessings and peace. We are so thankful to be children of God!

"But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. . .For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast." Ephesians 2:4-5, 8-9

SPECIAL VISITORS

Today we had a wonderful afternoon with our friends, Alan & Penny, who were visiting from down South. We were joined by the Dundore family and the O's dog, Snickers. The kids had a great time playing house and petting Snickers while the adults enjoyed catching up. We miss you, Al & Penny!!

AVERY'S DIARY

This week Avery wrote in her journal . . . "My perfect day: when we got Buddy" and "One thing I know I'll never forget: when my dog Buddy left". For those who don't know "Buddy", he is a Chihuahua that our family had for 3 weeks this summer. Shortly after Buddy's arrival, Maria realized that she was severely allergic to him. Thus, Buddy was only with us for a short time. Poor Avery still talks about her dog Buddy often.

FALL LEAVES

Each year we are "blessed" with an abundance of fall leaves. Playing, raking and bagging have become a weekly pasttime at our house.

HALLOWEEN

We enjoyed our annual trick-or-treat fest with our friends and neighbors. A giant bowl of candy is being enjoyed by all! In the pictures you will see a cowgirl (Avery), the Little Mermaid (Ella), the White Witch from Narnia (Meghan), a black cat (Anaja), Cat in the Hat (Mrs. Schmitz) and Curious George (Kalan). Not shown, but also joining us that night were a unicorn (Amaris), a werewolf (Mason), a pirate (Carter) and a little German girl (Tori). We are thankful for our good friends who live nearby!