What a wonderful Christmas break. I must say- we truly took a break. Although we were sad to say good bye to some old traditions, slowing down and simply living with no schedule for a week and enjoying life here together did our hearts good. We didn't get to go to Snoqualmie Pass, WA skiing as usual between Christmas and new Years, we had a very rushed fondue Christmas Eve due to 3 services Rob had to do, and we really missed alot of friends....BUT- new beginnings are refreshing and new traditions-well- were necessary. We began our break with 9 girls in the house for a sleepover and cookie making...phew that was exciting! We fit in making "pigs ears", eating fondue, making gramma's bread, and finishing the homemade sibling presents. During the break we slept in, stayed up late, and enjoyed PLENTY of "screen time." I got a cold- which forced a few sedentary days but that ended up being a great thing. Sometimes my "go go go" mentality is really not what the other 5 people in the family need. God was good to us- we slowed down. We realized that since we arrived in Indiana- we have hit the ground running and we were so tired. Isn't it amazing how we continue to find out that God knows us better than we know ourselves??!! I am not sure why this surprises me, but I guess I like surprises.
As we watched the days go by we find ourselves back in the swing of things. School has begun, sports are underway, and schedules are conflicting on the calendar. As we head into this new year let me tell you a few amazing blessings....
1. I think we have found a piano teacher. We could never replace our teacher in Ephrata and this "piano search" has been such a burden, but I believe we have come to the end of the search.
2. The kids were so excited to return to The Master's Study (their part -time school). Even though the transition to this type of schooling has been SO difficult (mostly for me) and full of many doubts...they seem to really love where they are!
3. I have started to exercise again!! YAY!!! It has been way to long
4. Sammy is making progress. Many of you know that Sammy's transition here has been the hardest and we have had discoveries of learning difficulties. His heart seems a bit better, he is not as angry, and we see glimpses f slow progress with his reading. Please continue to pray for him.
