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!!