Bill & Debby Bateman

Seven Days in Senegal on a World Vision Trip !!!

2011-01-21T12:17:00.000-08:00

Our primary purpose was to visit the work of World Vision and report back to our church, CFC, that their praying and giving are transforming the lives of families, showing them the love of Christ. We met many children everywhere we stopped.
We also visited the village of Baback to which CFC has gone annually for the past seven years. Fortunately this was not our means of transportation.

Finally, we wanted to see Laurie Fenicle, our first full-time missionary sent to Senegal last year. She is with her fiance, Philippe. Nice guy, really. They went to Baback with us and we visited their church on Sunday. They hope to be married in May at Calvary Fellowship in Downingtown.

Finally after thousands of air miles and dusty roads.......

2011-01-21T11:56:00.000-08:00

Diarra Thioury & Fallou Samb have been our sponsored children since March 2010.
Finally, they are no longer just faces on the refrigerator.....

but little children whose families & villages gain the support of World Vision whose ultimate goal is to show them the love of Chirst.

Almost all of us on the trip were able to meet with their sponsored kids, except Brian. Read on.

Surprise - We stopped in Fallou's Village

2011-01-21T11:34:00.000-08:00

To my greatest surprise, while visiting a village to meet Brian's sponsored child, Fallou came out to see me and have me meet his family.
I met his dad yesterday, and now meet his mother, brother and sister as well as aunts and cousins. It was a real family affair.

Then mom invited me into their hut, what a treat. And they gave me a basket of peanuts, a gift I was not allowed to refuse.

Six family members live here.

Now this is the new photo for my fridge. He finally smiled for me !!!!!

Bob Marley Lives On........

2011-01-21T11:19:00.000-08:00

We witnessed the beginning of a World Vision Micro-Financing Enterprise.Present at this meeitng were 12 men who entered into a business contract with WV based on their business plan to fatten livestock for resale. This will enable the village to care for itself during to hungry season. Present was the local Imam (in green), the village chief (in blue) and a village elder (pictured below).
I struck up a friendship with the village elder after praying for the transaction and asked if I could have my picture taken with him. He obliged and was then asked by the village chief to remove his .... um ..... hair covering.

Quelle surprise !!!!! as they say in French.

Miscellaneous Photos

2011-01-21T11:06:00.000-08:00

This is the Boabab tree, most famous in Senegal for its size and fruit.I just can't resist a good sunset shot.

It's a fact and this proves it.........

Penn State has the largest alumni association in the world.

Mike - always checking for a signal. Boy - does he miss his wife.

Goree Island - Senegal

2011-01-21T10:47:00.000-08:00

This guy is just showing off.
Goree island processed millions of slaves to the Americas.

We spent only a few hours here on our last day in country.

Quite a moving experience if you think of the many that died here...

And the separation of families.

Micah Updates

2010-12-11T08:06:00.000-08:00

"Now that there's a Grand kid, nobody pays me any attention."
"Don't you think I'm better looking?"

"Yo - who gave me this double chin?"
"Guess what I just did?"

"Boy - I wish I had some teeth..."
"When will he put that camera away?"

Micah Again

2010-11-17T17:22:00.001-08:00

Praying for his Grandpop "Grumps" already.

Fall Shots @ George's Farm

2010-11-17T17:15:00.000-08:00

How about some sunset shots -----

2010-11-17T17:11:00.001-08:00

More Micah

2010-09-02T07:27:00.001-07:00

Finally I get to hold him.
Here I am pretending to be asleep.
Here I am pretending to be half asleep, half awake. Which one will get me more attention?

Micah William Bateman

2010-08-31T17:22:00.001-07:00

Proud parents Jeff and Sarah
No, he's not cleaning him off, just showing him love.

6 lbs, 2 oz, 20 inches long for those ladies who have to know the numbers

Compare the smiles - one says "We're adopting our next one."

The other says "finally, someone to play Wii with".

The first stinky to change. Many more to come and I know Grumps won't help.

Down to the Outer Banks to vacation with H & Z

2010-08-15T16:01:00.000-07:00

Sunsets were hard to come by but this is Sunrise on our last day.
Zeke & Heather & the grand dog - Maya

Suck in the gut Bill.

Okay, one sunset was worth shooting.

My beautiful women.

Up at Lake Wallenpaupak again this year

2010-08-15T15:54:00.000-07:00

The old man still has it.
Jason on one cup of coffee before........
Jason on one ski.

More Lake shots ........

2010-08-15T15:49:00.000-07:00

An unexpected dinner guest.
Some kind of heron or crane on the dock.
Of course you have to have a sunset shot.

The next picture will be as parents. Little Billy due on August 29th.

Our Trip to BFA to help with ICEC Conference

2010-08-15T15:40:00.000-07:00

The team from Calvary Fellowship worked very hard and loved it.
Schloss Rotteln was always a favorite hike and we did it one last time.
Of course we had to visit the storks in Holzen near the dorm wehere Debby and I subbed on weekends.

Then off to Haut Koenigsburg in France. The castle of Wilhelm II, the King of Prussia.

Looking from France into Germany across the Rhine river.

Jason and Erin's Wedding on March 12th

2010-08-15T15:33:00.000-07:00

May I present to you for the first time Mr. & Mrs.
What is Zeke thinking?
The happy couple.

Summer, Fall & Winter 2009

2010-08-15T15:21:00.000-07:00

We had an unusually tough winter, be we love the snow.
In the fall we visited some of our closest friends from Germany, now living in Vermont.

I just couldn't resist this shot.

We live close to Amishland (Lacaster, PA) and occassionally get some neat shots.

It's Official - Jason's Engaged !!!!!

2009-07-26T16:11:00.000-07:00

Jason and Erin hope to be married this March, maybe on our anniversary, the 12th. He looks happy, doesn't he? He should be, she's a sweet young lady, who love the Lord and very missions minded. It will be fun seeing them grow together and watching where the Lord leads them.

Vacation "Down the Shore"

2009-07-24T15:04:00.001-07:00

Always have to have a sunset. This is in the port at Lewes, Delaware
Heather shot this one - make note of the bee in mid flight.

The rascal made off with my lunch.

The life guard rescuing the damsel in distress. Actually, this was Zeke's first step in the Atlantic ocean.

Deb, as always, hard at work capturing the moment.

Final Picture of Kandern !!!

2009-07-09T10:21:00.000-07:00

This shot was taken from the new floor addition at Haus Palmgarten. The sun setting made the lighting perfect. The house we lived in for 11 years is the white peak just to the left of the church's steeple. What fond memories. I know the picture is our banner, but putting in a blog allows YOU to download it, feel free. I don't when we'll be back for more pictures of Kandern so this will have to do for a while.

Friends to have fun with in Grindelwald

2009-07-09T10:16:00.001-07:00

Here we are eating lunch with Jonathan and Cathy Schmidt. Cathy taught 1st grade with Deb and is the vice principal of BFA's elementary school. Deb also taught Jonathan in 1st grade, but now is going into 9th.
After a bit of cajoling, Jonathan finally put his feet in the freezing water than runs off a glacier. What a refreshment in the middle of such a long hike. The sign says 55 minutes to the lake. It took us an hour and a half. All because of my picture taking efforts I'm sure.

A Day in Grindelwald, Switzerland

2009-07-09T10:07:00.001-07:00

The Eiger, Moench u. Jungfrau are three mountain peaks around which there is a Swiss legend. In English they are the Ogre, Monk and the Virgin. The monk comes between and saves the virgin from the ogre.
We hiked to a lake almost to the top of Grindelwald and had lunch there.

Edelweiss - finally we found some for a picture and it was in a pot at a restaurant where we had the best pizza ever. Onkle Tom's Cabin on Main Street Grindelwald

The final view as we headed to the car. This shot was taken at a cemetery. What a place for a memorial service.

Meals with Special Friends

2009-07-09T10:03:00.001-07:00

Danny & Sherri Plett are very dear friends. You can view their blog at:

http://www.dannyandsherri.blogspot.com/

Glenn & Shelia Lewis are heading back to the states and Glenn will be assuming the role of Missions Pastor, just like me !!! I'm not telling who's beer that is.

An Evening in Basel

2009-07-09T09:47:00.001-07:00

No doubting what country we're in!!!
Sitting on the banks of the Rhein.

Hopefully we won't get wet !!!

Spillman's Restaurant at the far side of the bridge where we had dinner with the entire graduating class of 2001. What memories.

One Last Grad Shot

2009-07-09T09:45:00.001-07:00

Sam Lee and his favorite teacher.

Some Time in Ireland....

2009-06-25T15:31:00.000-07:00

We got to visit Brian & Brenda Duffield serving with BCM in Ireland.
Now that's a baaaaaad haircut !!!

The meadows of the Curragh where they filmed battle scenes for Braveheart.

I am not a cat lover, but couldn't resist this picture.

Another one of God's miracles I got to see at a Bible study near Newbridge.

Graduation Day at BFA 2009

2009-06-25T15:01:00.001-07:00

Bill had the great privilege of addressing the largest senior class in BFA's history.

Just one of my many favorites - Kingsley

This young lady had both Mr. Batemans as teachers. Jeff when she was in 8th grade at Twin Valley and then the old Mr. B while a sophomore at BFA. Congrats Hannah.

Alyssa and Lyndsey - never forget: "Once a Falcon, always a Falcon!"

Erin, Autumn & Steph (Ernie too)

What a fun time we had revisiting the former life we had as teachers there. We had meals with many old friends and visited some of our favorite spots. Thanks tim and class of 2009 for the invite.

Tazz arrives !!!

2009-06-25T14:54:00.000-07:00

Many of you remember Beanie. Well, here's her replacement. He's the one smoking the cigar, the other pup is Heather and Zeke's. Maya is a puggle, a cross between a pug and a beagle. Both are pretty hyper at this point.

Sold it !!!!!

2009-06-25T14:52:00.001-07:00

Here it is, the last photo of my Honda before I sold it.

On the Lake

2008-09-28T16:44:00.000-07:00

Thanks to some very generous friends we were able to spend the Labor Day weekend in the Poconos.

Cute little neighbors.
I never did get in any fishing.
And this is why, too much fun on the lake.
Knucklehead sons.
58 mph on water - a bit crazy.
A view from the deck.
Their version of water ballet. Lovers in the tube.
Even the old man can do it.

What a great weekend !!!!!!

Our Trip to JAARS

2008-09-28T08:27:00.000-07:00

Deb and I, along with 9 others from CFC, went to Waxhaw, NC to visit two CFC families that serve as missionaries with Wycliffe Bible Translators at the Jungle Aviation and Radio Services facility. CFC has sent a team there for five years now to help with inventory and other services.

Here they repair and ready airplanes for their work in the bush. This particular plane will be dis-assembled and pack into a container and shipped to the jungle by truck, train and boat.

Here are the Gayles - Jeff, Sue, Jonathan and Sarah. Jeff works in the IT department at JAARS and serves also as board chair for the Christian school where Sue works and their kids attend.

Visitors from Europe

2008-06-21T14:23:00.001-07:00

Wow, what a surprise!

David & Kathryn Lohnes from Paris & Debs on her way from the Philippines to Paris
Cathy and Jonathan Schmidt from BFA on a summer HMA in the states

Our New Domicile

2008-06-21T07:50:00.000-07:00

Here's just a few shots of our new house hoping you'll come to visit.

238 Stoyer Road, Coatesville, PA 19320

Drapes are in the works !!!!

Living room, Dining room & Family room

Deb in her new Kitchen. I've hidden the handcuffs well.

We still get the sunsets we used to see in Kandern. Thank you Lord !!!!

Wedding Day

2008-06-18T11:49:00.000-07:00

On June 1st, 2008 Heather Leigh Bateman married Ezekiel Frank Adewale. It was an awesome event. To see many more pictures visit: http://www.hofferphotography.com/. Then click on "blog" in the green circle. Scroll all the way down and you'll see many creative pictures of blessed event.

Finally - an Update

2008-06-14T16:31:00.001-07:00

OK, I just didn't feel right about a new update until certain things were in order. Now that my real priorities have been established, maybe I'll be a bit more faithful. Here's my new ride, a 1998 BMW R1200C. It's the same one ridden by James Bond in "Tomorrow Never Dies" where the "chick of the flick" is handcuffed to JB sitting on the tank riding backwards. Deb, at this point, remains wheel-less.

Moving Day

2007-12-30T12:44:00.001-08:00

Here we go - packin' it in. 8 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. It was a long day.
I can't believe we filled the whole thing. As only Germans do, these guys boxed everything. I think if we were sending home snow tires, they'd box them too. Hopefully it all will arrive safe and sound on January 16.

Now it's time to paint and clean. CYA on the other side.

Last Times !!!!!

2007-12-27T08:59:00.001-08:00

Last white Christmas in Germany. This shot was taken in Chalampe, France, only a 15 minute drive away from our house.

Last time making Pizza in Germany

Last social with our German neighbors. 93 came to our "goodbye" open house and signed our guestbook !!!

Last time in France AND for a great Christmas dinner at the Kents.

More Special Good-Byes

2007-12-27T04:52:00.001-08:00

Hans Shaffer - Chaplain's assistant
The Youngs - Lane, Michelle, Jeffers, Meagen, Emma - fun family
The Kents - Randy & Jan - former BFAers, now in France (great Christmas Dinner)

Linda Sommer - our ESL specialist
Chris Greathouse - the Athletic Director who refused to go one on one with me in basketball
Sam Stemple - BFA's Chaplain

Glenn & Shelia Lewis - Rook partners
Mike Hill - piano teacher and a Pennsy guy
Mari Ellen Reeser - school counselor and so much more

More of the kids that make this job so much fun !!!

2007-12-27T03:35:00.000-08:00

This is Deb's small group that met every Wednesday evening. Joanna, Ginny, Alyssa and Erin.
Luke and Serge - basketball martyrs

Katie B and Autumn
Becki and Debbie
Bethany and Chew

Korean Kookiness in the Dorms

2007-12-27T03:31:00.000-08:00

I'd would sit by the fireplace and do my homework and Deb would disappear upstairs into the rooms with the girls.

Rebecca, Esther and Ja - what goofballs !!!

Good Byes at the dorm - Storchenblick

2007-12-27T03:05:00.000-08:00

"Praise God from whom all blessings flow...." you guys were part of those blessings.

Every Thursday night for several years we would sub for the dorm parents who needed their night off. Dinner was always an adventure and we always sand the doxology before eating. I'm sure that any future singing of the doxology will bring many good memories, if not, tears.

Here's Debbie and Bethany woofing it down before I even get in line. We miss you guys already.

After dinner often was laundry time and Krausey ..... well let's just say I almost stuffed you into one of those dryers.

Good Bye to my Small Group

2007-12-27T02:58:00.000-08:00

For 12 years now I've been in a small group with a few guys who try to hold me accountable. The faces have changed over the years, mostly just getting wrinkled, but I'm know that despite the miles and decades, we will always be great friends. Left to right - Mark Wiebe - BFA board chairman; David Harrop - pastor at BFCF; Tim Shuman - director of BFA; Glenn Lewis - ResLife administrator and Mets fan. Cinnamon buns compliments of Tim's wife Sandee.

Our Last Christmas Banquet

2007-12-08T06:17:00.001-08:00

Glenn and Shelia Lewis are some of our closest friends here at BFA. Glenn heads up the Residence division of the school. Together Glenn and Shelia were the MCs for the evening.

Deb hosts a discipleship group every Wednesday night and her girls are Joanna, Erin and Ginny.

I had all three in Bible class last year and I guess they saw the need for some Bateman balance. I'm sure Deb has corrected all my faulty teaching by now.

Pizza Night - Again

2007-11-18T05:52:00.001-08:00

Sam, David, Jae, Rebecca, Esther & Deborah just had to sample Mr. B's pizza before we leave. A quick game of Spoons followed and then Taboo.

These are some of the things we'll miss most !!!

New Staff Gathering

2007-11-18T05:48:00.000-08:00

We had 32 new staff members gather at our house for fellowship. They've been on the job now for 90 days and it's time for a checkup. Pray for these fine folks as they enter their first Christmas holiday season apart from family.

Herbstmesse in Basel

2007-11-11T09:20:00.000-08:00

We took in five buses loaded with students for this fall festival.

Talk about the "fall of man".

Polish Pottery

2007-11-11T09:14:00.000-08:00

Every once in a while Deb gets some time out with her girlfriends. This year the group of them went to Poland for one last trip to the pottery factories.

I suppose this would amount to me going to a motorcycle convention.

All Saint's Day in a Polish cemetery.

AAAAAHHHHHH !!!!! The treasure at last!

Fall Shots

2007-11-11T09:11:00.001-08:00

This is without a doubt the prettiest autumn season we've had here in 13 years.

Saturday Night - Pizza Night

2007-10-21T07:07:00.000-07:00

Every Saturday night is Pizza night. Sometimes we invite staff, sometimes students. Here's the group from last night, all nine of them.

Merrit, Phil, Ginny and Erin David, Brandon, Kingsley, Serge, Alyssa.

These are the just some of the things we'll miss.

Senior Class Trip to Rome - Venice

2007-10-13T05:47:00.001-07:00

You can't do Italy without making a stop in Venice (Venezia). The trip was saddened by the news that the Phillies lost all three games, but I'll get over it soon. The day was overcast, but that was better than the heat we've experienced here in the past.

It's a shame that the canals are filthy, but there is still the mystery of the city that floats.

At the end of a long day, which was the end of a long trip, we all sat down to enjoy a concert performed by the Interpreti Venezians. They made Vivaldi's Four Seasons come alive. We boarded the bus one final time at midnight and returned to BFA by 8:45 a.m. the next day. What a trip, what a great group of kids!!!!

Senior Class Trip - Rome Day 4 & 5

2007-10-13T05:43:00.001-07:00

Day 4 we spent as a day off from touring the city. The kids hung out, swam and watched another glorious sunset. We then went out for dinner, Italian style, a full 6 courses.
One final class photo at Osteo Antica before we head off to Venezia, then home.

Senior Class Trip - Rome Day 3

2007-10-13T05:29:00.001-07:00

No trip to Rome would be complete without a tour of the Coliseum. Every year Mario Bruno, missionary to Rome and friend of BFA, gives us an outstanding understanding of the history of the Coliseum and the Forum.

On the steps of the Victory Monuments are Deb, Christine, JyHae, Bekkah, Katie and Bill. All great kids. We will miss them all very much in a few months.

Late afternoon shot of the Coliseum.
Here's the Forum where Paul gave witness to Jesus Christ and where I'm standing is where tradition has it that Paul and Peter were imprisoned before their execution.

Senior Class Trip - Rome Day 2

2007-10-13T05:25:00.000-07:00

Day 2 took us on a walking tour past the Pantheon (above), Trevy fountain and other neat sites. We were able to return to the hotel early enough for the kids to swim in the Meditterranean as the sun went down.
We had our own little cove.

Senior Class Trip - Rome Day 1

2007-10-13T05:14:00.000-07:00

After spending a day in Florence, we then head off further south to Rome (Roma) for five days. Here are just a few of the hundreds of photos I saved.

We waited in this line for 2.5 hours to get into the Vatican. It seems criminal that the RCC has some of the world's greatest art treasures locked up here and cannot manage crowds enabling more to see the works.

One of Deb's favorite shots every time we visit the Vatican museum.
Here's a photo taken of Rome from the top of te dome at Saint Peter's Basilica.

Lunch with our friends Mike and Loralee Hill. There home supporting church is Hershey EFree.

Senior Class Trip to Rome - Florence

2007-10-13T04:59:00.001-07:00

We stop for 8 hours in Florence (Firenze) on the way to Rome, so the bus drivers can sleep. While there, we visit the Academia, where Michealangelo's "David" can be seen. Unfortunately, they do not let anyone take pictures these days.

This shot of the Arno river in Florence was the clearest we've seen in the three times we've been there. I am standing on the famous Ponte Vecchio as I took the picture.

Deb loves this shot as an exmple of symmetry. I tries to get the sculler to move over a few feet for my camera, but I guess he didn't understand my italian. Just joking, of course.

Hundreds of mopeds and scooters line the streets.

Anyone for gelati? Some of the best in Italy is in Firenze.

Quick Ride in Switzerland

2007-10-13T04:02:00.000-07:00

Here are just a few shots of our latest ride across the border to Switzerland. The cycle is up for sale, so we'd better se it while we can.

This is the town of Rheinfelden that borders Germany and Switzerland as it sits on both sides of the Rhein river.

Steve and Renee Grubb have been cycles buddies for Debby and me since they arrived in Kandern. We now welcome them to the Yamaha family with his latest purchase.

Our Baby's Engaged

2007-09-02T00:08:00.000-07:00

The proposal !!!
I guess she said "Yes". Look at that contentment...aaaaahhhhhh !!!

Glorious Late Summer Sunsets !!!!!

2007-08-23T11:19:00.000-07:00

There has to be clouds for great sunsets.
The fall brings us some of the most spectacular sunsets our bathroom window can behold.

First Sunny Day Back - What a Ride !!!

2007-08-12T08:54:00.001-07:00

We're still getting over jetlag and one of the best ways to appreciate being back is to go for a ride. This one was to the Alsace region of France, which is only 30 minutes from our house in Kandern.This is Hartmanswillerkopf, also know in french as Vieil Armand. "All Quiet on the Western Front" was written about this spot where the French and Germans stood face to face in the trenches for years, battling it out. Sometimes the trenches are less than 20 feet apart. Meeting their enemies over Christmas holidays, they'd eat and sing together. Then it's over and back to fighting them.Hundreds died here. Jeff and Jason loved to explore the bunkers, caves and old hideouts when they lived here with us.

Can you read French or German? Zoom in to read the story.

Isn't she one mean looking chick?

Don't get too close, you'll see the bugs in our teeth.

The Big Summer Event - Jeff & Sarah

2007-08-06T16:04:00.000-07:00

Here they are, the pictures you've been asking for. And these are only a few, I think we kept about 500, plus videos of the reception. Feel free to download and print, or whatever.

What a day !!! What a summer !!!

The happiest couple in the world and their kids.

Pray that they keep their eyes heavenward. Is that manna ???

What is that man doing up there? He's not licensed !!!
Heather, Dad, Mom, Jeff, Sarah, Deb's Folks, Jason

Is this "Men in Black" or "Bond and the Boys"?
While mom is off with the Bride getting ready, we snapped this one.

Precious time of prayer before the big event.

Jason Graduates from Williamson

2007-06-30T07:00:00.001-07:00

Here he is.....walking the line after three long, hard years of work.
Jason standing with the head of the machinists program.
Even grandmom and grandpop made it.
Here's Jason with the school's chaplain and long time family friend Rev. Mark Specht.
And finally, mom made it all the way from Germany. What a wonderful day !!!

Congratulations Jason, we love you and are so proud of you.

Another BFA Grad, but from the Coast Guard Academy

2007-06-30T06:51:00.000-07:00

Micah Gentile, a BFA alumni, was privileged to receive his diploma from the top. We've seen 4 Gentile kids graduate from BFA over the years as well as many others whose parents have been faithfully serving the Lord here in Europe. Micah's parents worked for Campus Crusade for years. His sister Bethany graduated with our son Jeff, and his brother Josh graduated with Jason.

BFA Graduation 2007

2007-06-30T06:38:00.000-07:00

It was my privilege to hand out 73 diplomas this year and watch each graduate walk across the stage smiling for moms and dads from all over Europe, North Africa and the Middle East.

This particular graduate is Luke Shuman, son of our Director Tim. Tim is on my right and Mark Wiebe, the board chairman, is on my left. The three of us are in an accountability group that meets every Thursday morning. Great guys !!!

Having completed 12 years of service at BFA this year, Luke and another student Timo, mark a milestone for Debby and me, in that we were there as they both entered 1st grade 12 years ago.

For more shots of grad day check Tim's Blog at : www.timandsandee.blogspot.com

Sophomores in Strasbourg

2007-05-27T09:42:00.000-07:00

Climbing to the top of Strasbourg's Notre Dame cathedral. What a neat view from the bell tower.

56 sophomores and their class sponsors spent the day walking around the canals of Strasbourg.

Junior Senior Banquet

2007-05-27T09:31:00.000-07:00

As always, this year's JSB was a great time for our BFA seniors. The juniors hold fudraisers every year to pay for a banquet where they honor the seniors.

Jeff & Sarah's Visit

2007-04-13T12:39:00.000-07:00

Here's the anxious couple up at the Hoch Blauen. If you've ever visited, you know the place.

Here they are after a long day of sightseeing. Poxy the pug is pooped as well.
Isn't this a sweet one staring at the Swiss Alps in Adelboden. They think they're on their honeymoon already.
Mom's getting into the picture now giving advice about something. Probably about how far you can throw Jeff if he gets out of line.
They playful couple with life spinning around them. They'll land sooner or later. We had a great time together, getting to know Sarah and making sure she knows Jeff from our perspective. Pray for them as they prepare for the big day on August 4th.

This Week - Winter Returned !!!!

2007-03-25T08:14:00.000-07:00

We actually had a snow day this week. I was actually called while in the shower ...... Mr. Bateman, please can we have a snow day? I suppose one per year won't hurt.

Last Week - Springtime

2007-03-25T08:08:00.000-07:00

Absolutely Gorgeous !!!! We thought winter was gone.

Pictures compliments of my buddy Tim. He has more on his blogspot. www.timandsandee.blogspot.com

Bill & Deb's 30th Hochzeitstag

2007-03-17T08:46:00.000-07:00

We spent the evening with good friends at Papa Joes Restaurant in Basel. Yes, I took my wife to Switzerland for our 30th anniversary. Everyone else would think to be very special. For Deb, knowing that Switzerland is only a 15 minute drive for us, the specialness was not the where, but the BBQ ribs we ordered. Not too common on the menu over here, but boy were they delicious.

Hey, didn't the first woman, Eve, come from a rib?

We would've done it up a bit fancier except that there's a wedding in the near future.

Jeff and Sarah - Engaged !!!

2007-03-17T08:37:00.000-07:00

Don't they look sweet? In Love? Goo-goo eyed? All warm n' fuzzy?

Save the Date - August 4, 2007

We are thrilled for both of them. One problem, we have not yet met Sarah. That's one of the sacrifices of living over here in ministry. Life goes on sometimes without you. They will both be here in a few weeks on their spring break. We look forward very much to meeting Sarah, the gal who stole my son's heart. Or, maybe the only one brave enough to take him on.

High School Retreat - Nürnburg

2007-03-17T08:24:00.000-07:00

Grades 9 - 12, all of us in one Castle !!!!! What a weekend, what a blast !!!!

Phil Carnuccio opened the Word and challenged the students and staff on several fronts; Softening their Hearts, Loving Christ, Forgiving Parents, Developing Pure Relationships.

The "Bridge Band" from Calvary Fellowsip Church in Downingtown, our home church, led us all in worship. What a great time.

Thanks so much, all of you who came, wives Lyndsay and Jill included, for making our retreat such a special time. It was more than just special for Deb and me as we got to spend some quality time with "old" friends who never grow old. (Phil paid me to say that.) We love you guys and miss you already.

Fasching Time

2007-02-21T09:34:00.000-08:00

Below are some pictures of Fasching here in Germany. It is similar to Carnival or Mardi Gras elsewhere and represents a very dark spiritual time for many. Just prior to the season of Lent, where we sacrifice something of ourselves, this is the time to let it all hang out, coupled with the thoughts of chasing away the dark spirits of winter.

The Party, then the Parade

This is quite scary !!!!!

Skiing Anyone????

2007-01-27T07:49:00.001-08:00

Stoos, originally uploaded by BFA Bill.

We are void of snow so far this winter except for a few flurries this weekend. This shot is from our HS retreat a few years ago. This year our retreat will be in Nurnberg, Germany. Phil Carnuccio from Providence in West Chester will be the speaker along with the Bridge Band leading worship.

New Occupation

2007-01-19T11:57:00.000-08:00

No, we are still working at BFA, but it's fun to see our name used in England and elsewhere.

Maybe this is a long lost relative. What is Honest Ale anyway?

New Year's Eve Fun

2007-01-01T04:20:00.000-08:00

Enjoy the following shots from the New Year's Eve gathering at our house. All shots were taken by Tim Shuman at considerable risk. Credit where credit is due.

Glenn, Phil, Jason, Luke & Tyler in chorus together.
Overlooking the our little town of Kandern. All is aglow with fireworks. Our neighbor called the fire company because of a tree fire down the street. Believe me, it was not our fault.
Our house with some interesting lighting effects and fireworks in the background.
Option 1: Jason's New Year's resolution will be to give up smoking.

Option 2: Jason shooting off his mouth again.

Option 3: Jason under the full effects of the Gluhwein.

Any way you look at it, we had a great time. Wish some of you were here.

Family Time at Christmas

2007-01-01T04:05:00.000-08:00

Well, here we are, all together once again. Despite some traveling difficulties we are able to spend six days together as a family. We got to our Christmas Eve service at BFCF and then home for dinner. On Christmas day we could open only some gifts because most were in lost luggage in Zurich. The eventually arrived and we has the second opening on Boxing day.

Don & Cyd Storrs and Zeke Adewale joined us for Christmas day dinner. Zeke is a good friend of Heather, Jeff & Jason and the Storrs work with us at BFA.

Christmas Trivia

2006-12-21T12:42:00.000-08:00

These strange balls of green in the trees, what is it? You don't see it in the summer with all the leaves on the trees, but it is very visible in the winter when the leaves are gone.
Technically it is a parasite that eventually kills the trees. One more factoid: it is illegal to pick this stuff off the trees for any purpose because of its parasitic nature and ease of spreading. This stuff can't be good for anything or anybody, can it? Leave a comment if you know what it is.

2006 Christmas Banquet

2006-12-12T11:24:00.000-08:00

This year Deb and I took a break from attending the banquet, to serving at it. What a blast working behind the scenes. I'm amazed at all the time and effort put into pulling off such a special night for our students.

Every year the Student Council grants some Christmas wishes and this year was my turn. My wish was to have my picture taken with my 10th grade Bible class students all dressed up in their finery for the banquet. Here they are:

Kandern in the Fall

2006-11-05T12:28:00.000-08:00

The school building is now finished from the outside. The big brown roofed building in the foreground is our gym, the aluminum roof to its left is the latest project completed and the windowed building on the right is where Bill's office is. I wish we had an aerial view, but this'll have to do for now.

Senior Class Trip to Rome

2006-10-16T11:10:00.000-07:00

Debby and I are senior class sponsors this year which entitled us to go along on the senior class trip. What a privilege to not only travel with, but to get to know these kids on a deeper level outside of the classroom. A quality group they are. On our way to Rome we stopped in Florence and on the way home it was Venice. I think my class trip as a high schooler was downtown Philly to see the Liberty Bell. Enjoy the pictures.

This is the Victory Memorial in center city Rome.

This is Trevi Fountain in Rome.

This is Debby misbehaving in Rome.

Sunset on the coast in Santa Severa where the whole group stayed.

We have had some very interesting senior trips over the years, each with their own unique theme. For instance we've had the year of the stomach flu, the year of the tunnel fire, the year of the bus door accident. This year was the year of the sun. Six cloudless days of temperatures in the 80s. What a blessing.

Heather Comes Home

2006-09-06T11:10:00.000-07:00

Yes, that is a real castle behind Heather. Neu Schwanstein was built by mad Ludwig and it is in the Bavaria region of Germany. The castle in Disney World is patterned after this castle and it is just one of four that Ludwig had built before his suspicious death at age 41.

Heather's visit was a great time for all three of us. She's in the midst of moving from UVA to NC State to begin her graduate studies and was able to squeeze us in for 16 days. That's our baby, all grown up.

More Guests

2006-08-06T06:48:00.000-07:00

Scott and Shelly Leary came to visit for 10 days. Despite missing their dog, Winston, I think they had a pretty good time. They flew into Nice and joined us in Monaco for a few days as Bill wrapped up substitute preaching at Monaco Christian Fellowship for two weeks. Then we all drove up to Kandern to visit the school and answer the many questions they have regarding the possbility of their joining us on staff someday. Scott is the son of my twin sister, LouAnn. Pray for them as they yield to the leading of the Lord.

Heather arrives tomorrow, August 7, for her first return visit "home" in several years. Can't wait !!!!!

Summer Visitors to the Bateman Hotel

2006-07-04T10:03:00.000-07:00

The whole Mellon clan for Tini's graduation

June 7 - 11

Mark & Heidi Berg June 23 - 26

Heidi (Freisen) graduated from BFA 2001

Gordon & Cathy McNiel June 22 - July 2

Cathy is Bill's cousin from Denver

More are coming in August - How about you ???

Our summer projects continue on the Janz building. The roof trusses are in place and the new floor has been laid. The outside will be finished by the start of school, Lord willing. Check out that project and its progress on our school website listed on the right.

Bill is preaching three times this summer, twice in the International Christian Fellowship of Monaco and once at our home church of Black Forest Christian Fellowship. Deb is in a van with three other BFA ladies somewhere in Poland at the time of this posting. I'm sure she's having too much fun!! Our nephew Scott Leary and Shelly, his wife, will fly into Monaco and ride back with us to visit the work at BFA. Our daughter, Heather, will also be here for a few weeks in August. Can't wait !!!!!!

Graduation Day

2006-06-20T11:46:00.000-07:00

Finally, eventually the year comes to an end. We pray God's blessing on all 72 seniors, now alumni, as they scatter to the ends of the earth. We are reminded of the school's vision statement: Globally minded Christians impacting their world through biblical thought, character and action. May the Spirit of the Lord rest on each one of you as you follow His leading.

Sad Goodbyes :-(

2006-06-04T08:52:00.000-07:00

The year is almost over and with just one week left it's time to start saying "goodbye". This goodbye belongs to the Storchenblick Senior girls. Alana, SunMin, Liz, Grace, Fiona & Nicole with aunt Deb left of middle. They're headed off to Turkey, Korea, Australia, Ireland and the USA. With a solid 3 - 7 years of BFA behind them, we know they'll do GREAT !!! We miss them already. God bless you ladies. It's been tons of fun.

The Junior Senior Banquet

2006-05-27T01:10:00.000-07:00

This is one of the most cherished memories for our graduates every year. The junior class raises funds to put on a great banquet for the seniors. Here's just one of the many pictures we will hold on to for a long time. Tini, the last of the Mellon clan is graduating. It's been fun teaching her to play Rook, throwing pizza parties for her and her friends and picking on her in the halls of the school. In a few days I'll have the privilege of shaking her hand and 64 others at the graduation podium on the big day. Wow, what a blessing!!!

Easter Dinner

2006-04-16T11:03:00.000-07:00

This was our first Easter without our kids. We were able to get together with three families that form our small group that meets biweekly and their kids as well. School starts up again this Wednesday after a two week spring break. However, after two weeks of pretty lousy weather including several days of snow, we are still waiting for spring to arrive. Those springtime pictures will have to wait.

Deb's Art 1 Pizza Party

2006-03-26T10:03:00.000-08:00

With the end of the school year approaching, and Deb's first semester Art class over, it was time for a celebration.

Snow Storm of the Year

2006-03-05T08:06:00.000-08:00

Boy, did we get hammered. The heaviest snow in the eleven years we've been here. Perfect timing too, our High School is closed Monday because of their retreat this weekend.

Thai International Dinner at Blauen Dorm

2006-02-25T07:26:00.000-08:00

From left to right we have Lauren from Ireland, Elise from Uzbekistan, Jason, Ellen, Laura & Frauke from Germany, James from Kosovo & Rachael from Germany. All great kids and now superior Rook players, well at least some of them. The Thai food prepared by Glenn & Shelia was great, but the fellowship was even better.

Deb's Wednesday Night Bible Study Group

2006-02-09T05:34:00.000-08:00

Pray for these junior girls: Lydia, Elise, Linnea, Anna & Laurel

Heather, Jeff & Jason in PA - Christmas 2006

2006-02-05T06:20:00.000-08:00

Our Beanie - we miss her

2006-01-29T11:06:00.000-08:00

RIP - July 2005
16 years old

The Kids

2006-01-29T09:56:00.000-08:00

Here they are:

Jeff - Teaching at Twin Valley MS in Morgantown, PA
Heather - BioLab technician at UVA
Jason - Student at Williamson Trade School

Serving at Black Forest Academy

2006-01-29T08:52:00.000-08:00

Our sending agency:

CrossWorld
PO Box 306
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
610-667-7660