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| December 27 marked the 3 year anniversary of the day precious Jadrian was welcomed into the arms of Jesus. It was a bittersweet day for us. Oh the dam of memories and emotions that come flooding like a river! I think I felt some emotions stronger yesterday than I did the day he passed when I was numb, and God was so graciously carrying us. God's gift of healing is a beautiful thing. I am forever grateful for the impact this sweet son had on my life! After the torrent of tears were over I could truly rejoice again for him....and the incredible blessing he has to be in the presence of Jesus! Some days I long to be able to join him. Some day I will! Until then, it is an HONOR to remember his life, and to strive to live life to the FULLEST until sweet reunion day! |
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| This year we started a new family tradition that the children all loved. We had a Bethlehem Dinner on Christmas Eve. |
You can create a very simple supper or a more elaborate experience.
Here's some ideas:
*Play instrumental music.
*Dress up in robes and sandals, pretending you are travelers at an inn in Bethlehem.
*Set the scene with oil lamps, simple pottery or wooden dishes, candles (no electric lights).
*Have guests wash their hands in a large bowl with a pitcher of water before eating. At our house, daddy washes each child's hands in a bowl while praying over them and they then go sit down.
*Sit on the floor on blankets or pillows and use a low table for the food. We spread the tablecloth right on the floor and eat.
* read the Christmas story during this time.
Here are some menu ideas to choose from:
Flatbread~Hummus~Fish~Chicken~Goat cheese (called "feta")~Olives`Raw veggie tray
Cheese and cracker platter~Pomegranates~Braided Jewish bread~Grape juice / wine
Grapes~Tomato and cucumber salad~Soup~Dates and figs~Orange slices
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| Contented sigh.....we had such a beautiful peaceful Christmas! We couldnt help but wish China treasure were home with us, and different times one of us would comment that "next Christmas little brother should be here with us" Speaking of China treasure.... AAHHH!! (mini vent!) the waiting is getting soOoOo long and frustrating!!! We havent heard one word about if they have locked his file yet and we are past the approximate time frame they had given. In HIS time...in HIS time!!!! It feels like we have been forgotten.....but we declare God is working in ways we cannot see yet. |
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| So precious watching Kianna's delight and excitement with her gift this year. |
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| After the ice storm the kids have been having so much fun in the icy shrubs. A lot of them are old thorn trees and this is the only time you could call them beautiful! They begged me to come tour their village..... this is the sign that welcomed us :) |
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| It was so much fun! I was so glad I went to the work to get Kianna & I all bundled up. It was so icy on the big rock we didnt need any sleds. Just sit and ...WHOOSH!!!! I doubt I sledded in ten years! And yes, I screamed the whole way down! Oh the joys of winter land! That awesome feeling of coming into a warm house with red stinging cheeks! |
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| The Winter sunsets are so breathtaking. Thankful a thousand times over for our beautiful view!! |
