29November2009 Still Full

Like a flash Thanksgiving came and went and three days later we are still full. We ate an excellent meal of turkey, dressing, sweet potato casserole, mashed taters, green bean casserole, cranberry sauce, pumpkin pie, pecan pie, coca-cola cake, etc. After a couple helpings everyone sat around in a carbohydrate-induced haze. Bliss! The only thing missing was parades and football on TV.
In the evening we had a bonfire in the vacant lot across from our apartment. Everyone made room for hot chocolate and roasted marshmallows. Our group, approximately 30 folks, listed things we were grateful for and then we sang some songs. A perfect ending to a wonderful day.
We're thankful for a Dad that never gives up on us, family and friends and the many blessings of this life but this year we are especially grateful for being here, in our new home. It's been a long time coming.
May we who are so abundantly blessed be a blessing to those around us!
12bf

23November2009 Goodbye dear friend!

For 3 years this faithful companion has been by M's side, well, in her mouth. Our two oldest gave up their pacifiers before now but with the transition our family has been going through we wanted to preserve M's one item of comfort at least until after Christmas. With our deadline fast approaching we''d been conniving how to get rid of this neon abomination as painlessly as possible. Fortunately M took care of our dilemma a couple nights ago by accidentally biting the end off, rendering it unfit for service. Of course, initially she was upset but now she is sleeping remarkably well. PTL!
When questioned about how she can sleep so good without her old friend, M is quick to tell us, "Big girls don't need a paci!"
RIP pink NUK, RIP.

17November2009 Another tooth bites the dust!

Apparently all Z is going to want for Christmas is his 2 front teeth.

14November2009 Ahlan Wa Salan

Ahlan wa salan (or "welcome to our home") Here are some pictures of our apartment. We will be here for the next 5 months and then off to another more permanent abode. We hope you enjoy our little tour. And if you're ever in the neighborhood....
12bf

11November2009 Reconnected

So, we've been without internet for the last 4 days. It seems like much longer than that possibly because it has been off and on since we got here. After the initial aggravation, which lasted until....yesterday, rather than being frustrated we have been trying to figure out what He is teaching us by this.
First, don't you hate it when you have to learn patience?!? Second, isn't it terrible that it takes so long to learn it? Apparently this is something we will continue to figure out. The pace here is slower (since we come from the south that's saying a lot!). Fortunately there are some distinct advantages to the slower pace. More family time, less stress (once you figure out how to go with the flow...an art to itself) and a deep appreciation for when things actually happen on time to name a few.
The good news is we have our internet back. The better news is that we are learning about life here. The best news is He cares enough to teach us!
12bf