26August2013 Where Moth & Rust Corrupts

Last night, while we were sleeping, someone broke into our cars.  As you can see from the photos above they made quite a mess.  Fortunately nothing of consequence or value was taken.  A small flashlight and some pocket change are the only things missing.  After the initial anger we sort of felt sorry for the dude (Yes, it was a man.  We have the whole thing on video).  He went to a lot of trouble to break into our vehicles only to find out that we really don't own anything.  Rather than a cool GPS, expensive stereo or maybe a handgun, he found an extensive collection of napkins and straws from various fast food establishments, a bunch of kids' DVDs and a 50 pound bag of shelled corn (don't ask).  So grateful our treasure...and our hearts...are stored where thieves can't break in and steal!  See Matthew 6:19.

Check out this note M. wrote to the police that came to investigate.  So cute!

22August2013 Universal Language

What's the universal language?  Math?  I hope not.  English?  Billions across the globe may beg the differ.  Poetry?  Music?  Love?  It's hard to argue with that one.  However, last night we were reminded of an unequivocal truth.  As we sat around a dining room table with new Iraqi friends, communicating over cups of tea, the sound of our children, laughing, screeching in joy echoed across the back yard, further evidence that play is a universal language.  Kids don't care about grammar, vocabulary or syntax.  They just have fun.  That needs to be replicated!  Get past the fear, ignore the stereotypes and enjoy the people God has placed in your path.  That's a language we want to be fluent it! 

15August2013 Back to School

4 of our 7 started back to school today. 

J started 7th Grade

Z started 6th Grade

M started 1st Grade

D returned to the classroom and is teaching 6th Grade Math, Science and Literature.