A MUST READ!!!!

I have just started reading this book called the "A Gospel Primer". It was recommended by a couple of wise friends. I picked it up and quickly knew this was going to be a jewel. First of all it is thin and very simply written. What is not simple is the depth of truth and focus on the gospel that leave you so hope filled. Many of us have been blessed to have heard the importance of preaching the gospel to ourselves daily. This is such a helpful tool to do just that. In small bites you are encouraged to remember where hope truly lies. What a blessing as we live in a world that is bombarded with anxiety to have a gentle beacon of the bedrock truth that our greatest problem has been reconciled in the cross. I didn't realize how far from that truth the reality of my life has strayed. I still think there is some good works I can add or need to. I am so encouraged by this book. I hope you consider checking it out. It can be purchased at the Covenant Life Church bookstore, or directly at 1-800-913-6287.

O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree

Knowing that we would be in Florida for most of our Christmas Break, we did not purchase a tree this year. Instead we made one we could EAT! Here is the smallest yet tastiest Slack tree ever. It was such a different experience from our times with icing from when the kids were younger no one put any in their hair. There was once when I had to stop Christian from sticking the tip of the icing bag in his mouth. Overall it was a sweet experience!

Christian's Birthday at Spy Museum

We celebrated the gift of our son Christian's this past Saturday. He was 12 on the 12th day of the 12th month. We went down to DC and toured the International Spy Museum. We weren't sure what to expect but found there was alot of interactive spy spots. My favorite was when they had us crawl through the air conditioner vent to try and hear spy secrets. It ended on a more serious note as they pointed to modern day spies and terrorism. We left grateful that there are people who put their lives on the line each day carrying on espionage for our safety. We had a gift certificate for Macaroni Grill we had been saving so we had a yummy dinner out as well.

A Special Christmas Tea

This Saturday morning we were treated to a beautiful Christmas tea put on by the ladies of the PC admin. team with special guest chef "Dawn Weaver". The tables spoke of detail, thoughtfulness and care. The food was truly mouthwatering and we enjoyed a getting to know you game . Once again the expression of care is humbling. Thank you to all who served us so kindly! This is a picture of the ladies I have the privilege to be walking this wonderful journey with.

An "Eight Cow Woman's" Date

Recently for a sermon illustration a pastor at church shared a story about a woman called Sarita. The custom of her village was that a man would offer a cow to ask for a woman's hand in marriage. For a wealthy or special woman there may be two or perhaps three cows offered. There was a quiet and simple woman called Sarita and a man came and offered eight cows for her. The village was awed that he would pay such a high price for such a simple woman. Later a reporter heard and came to visit the couple and was amazed at the lively respectable woman that served them. When asking who she was the man proudly acknowledged that was Sarita. The reporter wondered what had happened to her to change her from what she originally had been. The husband replied that she was acting like an eight cow woman. Well that is what my sweetie did this past Sunday when he planned a surprise date and took me to see Handel's Messiah at Washington National Cathedral. I did not realize that it was mostly scripture about God's great love and sacrifice of his Son. It was presented by masterful musicians and singers. Set in the backdrop of the beautiful cathedral it was an awe inspiring evening. I sure did feel like an eight cow woman. Thank you Matt for planning and blessing me at a time when there is great demands on your time.

Some more Slack home Pics

A Peak Inside Our Home

A friend (Jess Aiduk this is for you) asked me if I would blog and show pictures of where we are living. It is a very nice townhouse that we rent through the church. When we first got here the kids commented it was nicer than what we were use to. Thanks Jeannie Harvey for taking such good care of us!

Catching up with the Kirchers

On our way home form Georgia we stopped by and had a quick visit with our good friends the Kirchers. They lived in Orlando and this past year moved to Mooresville, NC to be part of the new church plant there. As usual time with them was warm and refreshing. The kids had a chance to jam in the kids music loft and had a chance to go four wheeling. We had to take away Christian's license when one of the boys came in and said "Christian caught some air". Meaning that he left the ground. I love my fearless guy!

Ty, Turkey, and Thanks

We took a quick trip to Atlanta, Ga to spend Thanksgiving with my mom and brother and his family. It has a been a mini tradition the past few years and with the thought of being in NY we really wanted to make seeing them a priority. My sister-in-law Judy blessed us with her delicious cooking and kind hospitality. My mom brought much affection and joy. My brother keeps us all laughing. We love spending time with our cousins Kaley, Ty and Cole, even though they kill us at ping pong. My nephew Ty even postponed his b-day party so we could participate. He had an inflatable slide which was a big hit. Encouraged to be brave I tried once. We had some very thoughtful conversations and came away very thankful for our family.

A Surprise Weekend Getaway

Ben Wikner (holding the baby girl) one of the PC students who always has fun up his sleeve planned a couples getaway for our caregroup. It was very special knowing that every minute the guys take a break from studying is valuable. We didn't know what to expect but were treated to a beautiful house right on the Chesapeake Bay. The water view here is right out the back door. There was also a firepole, which my friend Lilli braved. Speaking of brave The Laws even tried my green smoothie. The guys took over the kitchen and made some yummy meals. It was such a refreshing time. Thanks Ben and Erin!!

Living History : A visit to the Capitol

As we headed out to DC this past Monday we were able to take Amber Sutter (a friend from Fl) with us. We had a brief and amazing trip to the Engraving museum because Matt wisely discerned we should try to be on time to the Capitol Tour. A young man from the Maryland State Representative's office took us underground from the offices into the Capitol and right to the Senate floor. It was remarkable being in the building and realizing who else had walked in those halls. We could not take pictures of the Senate Chambers but here is a picture of where the original Supreme Court met until the 1950's. I was very grateful for being an American and saw God's grace reflected in much wise leadership over the years.

An Evening in Baltimore

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This past Friday night we went to the Baltimore Aquarium. Matt ran out of class later than usual and we jumped on the highway and joined in the evening rush hour and spent an hour and a half in traffic making our way to Baltimore. I started to wonder if this was such a wise plan on my part to head out on a busy rainy Friday night. We were greeted by a dreamy foggy harbor and an amazing aquarium. It was so worth the trip in retrospect. We strolled around looking at rays, sharks, aneonmes and fish. We were amazed as we went from exhibit to exhibit. The Australia and Rain Forest exhibits were like walking into the actual terrain. If you are in the area this is a must do (Friday nights the ticket is $8 instead of $22 for an adult). I have included two short videos, one of the cityscape and another or Matt and his new friend.

Great Falls lives up to its name

This past week we had the opportunity to go to a park called Great Falls. We stood by the water and were mesmerized by the many simultaneous falls and rapids. In those moments we ponder God's greatness as we stand before a small example of His amazing creation. We walked and laughed. Christian even found himself a crutch for when he grows up. These continue to be some of our sweetest times when we take time away from our full schedule and spend time as a family.

A Historical Day

Today we vote for our president. I find that participating in politics is such a privilege and responsibility especially as I see how much our freedom has cost others as we study our nation's history. I am encouraged that no matter the outcome my hope rests on the Lord. I am making a commitment regardless of who is voted in to respect and honor the office. The psalmist reminds me "Put not your trust in princes, in a son of man, in whom there is no salvation. When his breath departs, he returns to the earth: on that very day his plans perish. Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob whose hope is in the Lord his God, who made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them, who keeps faith forever: who executes justice for the oppressed.. (146:3-7)" Rest in him and I hope you join me in the privileged of voting.

Harvest Party Time!!

I so enjoyed getting the kids dressed up for the church's Harvest party. When they were little it was normal for them not to put on regular clothes to start the day. I would have breakfast with Batman, a princess, Robin and a fairy with wings. This is now a sweet memory so when the kids said they would like to get dressed up I jumped at the opportunity and hit a local thrift store. It was a fun night. Jordan dressed up as one of my favorite people, himself and gave a hand with the games. Sherry, Trinity and Jeannine could have won a contest as Pooh,Tigger and Eeyore.

Fun, Friends and Food

One thing that has made our stay in Gaithersburg so sweet has been the friends that God has
brought into out lives. This past week the Harveys who serve heroically on the Pastors College Administration Team (they plan many special events for the class each year) had us and the Schiels (another PC family ) over for a VERY nice dinner. It was a fun and filling evening and a great opportunity for my sweetie to take a break from a busy school week. It was so meaningful because they have already done so much for us. Thank you Craig for your example of servanthood and Jeannie for wrapping everything you do in love.

Pastors College "Field Trip"

One of the things we really enjoy about the Pastors College is that the guys work hard but those who care for us make sure there is time for play. This Saturday we had an opportunity to go down to DC as families with many of the folks who make up the PC administrative team. We were treated to an instructive and interesting tour by a man named Steve who goes to Cov. Life Church. He even shared interesting facts such as explaining that the helicopter that was flying over Arlington at the time was either showing a dignitary around or doing sniper patrol for the president's arrival. I so enjoyed his tour and being with everyone. We had a bright sunny day with a chill in the air and then ended with a fun pizza lunch. We are humbled by God's kindness to us in this season and so grateful for those he uses to extend that grace to us.

Celebrating God's Many Gifts

As I start this blog I want to celebrate the goodness of God in our family at this time. My greatest earthly gift is my husband Matt. Not only is he my best friend and sweetest thought, he has been my greatest teacher. He has taught me how to laugh, how to relax (still a work in progress) and most importantly how to trust God. Our life together has had many interesting turns and ups and downs, yet I have seen him grow in his trust of God as he leads and cares for our family. He is teaching me why I can "laugh at the days to come". All of our days are in God's very purposeful and caring hands. My children are all assistant coaches in the effort of teaching mom how to laugh and trust. Jordan is a constant source of wisdom and comfort. Seeing what God has done in his life, especially his heart of humility, has taught me to see that when I fail I can seek forgiveness and have my joy renewed. What an amazing gift to watch the student become the teacher. Mariah teaches me to laugh by her gentle ways and warm hugs. She is one of the funniest most creative people I know. Then there's Christian, my dance instructor. He is my personal trainer in enjoying life. No one I know takes as much delight in embracing life. Brooke teaches me to trust God as I see her so faithfully put her sweet little life and heart in our hands; trusting us with her deepest thoughts. I often think she is a picture of how I want to be with God, running to him with my every need and loving him with all my heart like she does with us. Well, I look at this new year with much faith. We have just begun the adventure of being part of Sovereign Grace Ministries Pastors College. Already there are others who are influencing my view of Christ and my life; the Ricuccis, Purswells, Harveys and the 17 other PC wives. I know it is a work in progress but I look forward to becoming a woman who can, by God's grace, "laugh at the days to come".
Thank you Cheryl Dawn Photography for the great pictures!