All Together Again

There are seven of us living in The Shoe again. Yippee! Gretchen came back from her youth retreat last Sunday afternoon. She had a fantastic time. The highlight for her was the zipline. She actually rode it! I was so proud of her, because I am absolutely sure she was scared. This is the girl who wouldn't go down the fireman's pole at the local playground because it was too high off the ground! So, it probably took some serious courage on her part. Go Gretchen!

The teaching was solid. Mark MacArthur challenged the children to evaluate their lives to determine whether they are truly saved and producing fruit, or deceived because they are living in a Christian family.

Good stuff.

Gretchen and Gustav had a long talk when she returned. We pray God will do a mighty work in her heart!

Nicholas returned on Monday from nine days away at "Camp Pa." He shot guns, rode the ATV and learned to drive Pa's pick-up truck! He had a very good time. He flew as an unaccompanied minor and did a great job. When I got there to pick him up I got into the line to check in so I could walk to the gate to get him and, lo and behold, there he was right behind the desk chit-chatting with the United employees! They landed really early and he kept getting passed along until he made it to the check-in desk. I was mortified! But he took it all in stride. "Come on, Mom, baggage claim is over here..." Yep, he's big.

So, The Shoe is full to bursting again. But what a wonderful time of year to be snug together in a small house. We have all the Christmas decorations out. We have been having lots of company and are looking forward to our Bible study's Christmas party here on Saturday. I am getting out the chocolate fountain!

Yum!

I decided to call school off until after Christmas. I was a bit burnt and needed a break. Now we can focus on sending out Christmas cards, making fudge and cookies, and just plain enjoying this blessed season.

We are so sorry to be missing the baby boom in CT right now, but we rejoice in the Lord's goodness along with you!

And we rejoice in the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ, as well. May the wonder of the goodness of God flood your hearts this season.