|
| I love my youth! Last night, I reunited with 12 of my youth who are away at University. We met at a Pub for an after Christmas meal. Spending time with them was so energizing. Most of them are going on with God and involved in Bible Studies (some are even leading them!) Makes me so proud how they've progressed since leaving youth group. And the meal was yummy too. I had a brie, cranberry, mushroom and walnut pastry bake thing with fresh vegetables & rice - very English but very good. 
 
| | |
| Just enjoyed 2 weeks with my USA friend Bobbie. We went to London, Bath & Paris. All in a week. What a lovely time together! We did some Christmas shopping at Harrods, dodged scary swans & geese in Windsor (home of the Queen), stayed with Messianic Jews in Bath and went to their Torah study, and ate a 3 course meal on the first level of the Eiffel Tower! One of the poshest meals I've ever had. In fact, I got confused when ordering my appetizer and ended up with Duck Pate & Cavier!!! It is an acquired a taste I think ;) Bobbie has most of the good pictures, but here's a couple... Pigeons @ Trafalgar Square  Bobbie outside Westminster Abbey
The Eiffel Tower | | |
|  Normally, Autumn is quite busy for me. But my work in the schools has been slower in starting this year. Thus, I've had a bit more time on my hands.
So one day, I took one of my youth Amy on a walk to a place called Carlton Bank. A place where all problems seem to fade. Check out the view! Then earlier this week, I went on a mini road trip to my favorite retreat centre (Rivendell). I spent a couple of nights there and did a lot of reading & planning. It was such a nice getaway. My little cabin in the woods.  
Look at those Autumn leaves. & my cozy cubbyhole called 'The Corner.' | | |
| The past 6 months have been really interesting. On the one hand, I've struggled emotionally quite a bit - mostly because of several difficult & heartbreaking situations in my job. Yet in the midst of the storm, God has showered immense blessing. - Passing my driving test first time & getting my first UK car
- My best friend Jeni visiting for 3 weeks
- A fabulous trip to India stimulating more of a heart for the poor
And if that weren't enough... I tend to visit Texas every summer. But because of India & the car, I lacked the finances to go. I grew homesick but kept quiet about it knowing that my own financial decisions had prevented a visit. But still, I shared with the Lord of how much I missed my "baby luvs" (5 year old Olivia, 4 year old Luke & 22 month old Beau). I daren't ask Him to provide a way; I just confessed my nostalgia. Well, without knowing about my longing, a couple at church began offering me airmiles for a trip home. I politely declined not wanting to be a free rider. But each time I saw them, they persisted. And so finally, I accepted! Then, my brother shared that an amazing deal to go to Disneyworld had been presented to him (benefits of another generous Christian) and that if I'd like to go as well, I'd only owe money for meals and souveneirs. HELLO?!?! How humbled am I at such abundance? Not only does God fill me with the endurance and companionship I need to minister in a challenging environment, but He also grants material extras that make me smile. Below are some pictures of the Disneyworld adventure. What refreshment little children bring! 
 
| | |
| Pictures of Richard & Juanita's Wedding. I was Maid of Honor last weekend. What an amazing day! So many different Christians joining together (some doing flowers, some coordinating the potluck meal, some decorating....) Such a happy couple. And me - the happy matchmaker :)
 
| | |
|
