It’s the start of a brand new year. In 2026, there will be some milestone events that we’re very much looking forward to – namely, Freedom’s first high school graduation! But until then, we’re doing our best to take advantage of the days we’re given. Check out these 31 photos from January.
Ministry
In the Dominican, it’s tradition for senior classes to go through what is called “Senior Promotion” where they “introduce” themselves to the student body as they get ready to graduate.The Class of 2026 chose to focus on the word “LEGACY” as they follow the Lord out into what it is He has for them.The seniors performed in a morning assembly at schoolMy birthday month buddy (Rachel) turned 40! Since I wasn’t there to celebrate, Aylin was very happy to help blow out candles. 🙂Katie (right) and others discussing some math during a free period at schoolSome wonderful groups joined us in January to help around campus – both in tutoring and on the construction siteKristine is such a special person! She may not live in the DR, but she is truly part of the Freedom family!We recently met a matching gift that will primarily be used to do some expansion on our outdoor multi-use buildingGravel all smoothed out and ready for the next stepSome goobers for kitchen staff 🙂High school Honor RollThe littles remembered Dominican founding father Juan Pable Duarte in January. (Fun fact: I share his birthday!)
Family
Some snowy days this month!What better pairing than snow and hot chocolate? (Cal definitely has an obsession.)This picture of Pepaw and his grandkids sits in our room – sometimes it’s sweet to think about the good times of days gone by ❤I still haven’t gotten to hold the newest member of Jhoan and Yuleisy’s family, but I love the pictures I receive!Cal loves to try new recipes – she made some fun little cookie cupcakes using her Barbie cookbookYes to all the soups! Pasta fagioli is one of our faves.I got some good reading in! This is from an Elisabeth Eliot book I devoured this month.I definitely don’t get to see this lady as often as when she lived right above me in the DR, but we enjoyed catching up one evening!Roo thinks that MY blanket is hers. I got it for Christmas, but Caleigh has essentially claimed for herself, too. Perhaps that will justify my buying myself a second one? 😉Leyton has enjoyed MS basketball again this seasonI have a couple of new buddies! The coach’s kiddos enjoyed hanging with the fam during a lot of evening games.This one has the MOST energy – and maybe a special little place in my heart! ❤Scott and I have been helping out with the junior high youth group at church. It’s been good to get to know some of these gals!The moment church is out, the boys beeline it to the gym for some basketball. 🙂Rachel stopped by for a quick little visit! Of course, we had to squeeze a game or two of Secret Hitler in with the kiddos.An early morning airport drop-off. Until next time, friend!Both boys are in the same algebra class. I may not be teaching right now as a profession, but I still seem to get my fill in other ways! 😉My sis-in-law made me a homemade cookie cake!Scott and I broke out a new game this month – you have to use your phone along with cards from the game to solve crimes. Definitely unique, and it gives me escape room vibes.
The Mitcheners 