Thanks so much for partnering with us. Every prayer of yours, even a short phrase, helps us move forward in ways we could never attribute to our own strength and natural ability. We are so excited about what is to come in 2010, but will be able to do so much more with your help. If you do already sponsor a child, would you consider marking off seven 5 minute spots each month to focus on praying for child soldiers and their rescue throughout 2010? You will be amazed at the stories we receive back as result of YOUR prayer!
Our family is counting the days ‘til Christmas, of course. The kids are out of school, and there is the usual flurry of sending off cookies and presents to family, the ongoing game of monopoly (to house rules), art projects, little girl dressup, and meal prep that go along with winter break. Frankly, all of us are as excite
d about the down time as we are about Christmas itself. Sleeping in and not accomplishing much are about as high a goal as I want to set for a while...
We also have the special...ummm...blessing of 2 December birthdays. Both Rooke (now a solid 11) and Samara (now a flamboyant 5) celebrate theirs the week before Christmas. Usually, we do a combined party for the two of them, which is small—just family—that kind of thing. But, sometimes in childhood you need a birthday to remember, so this year they each got their own party, complete with homemade piñatas (since Rooke’s party was populated by preteen boys, we made his piñata out of duct tape!). So we are well-feted this week!
Adrian (our TEENAGER!!!) started playing basketball this fall and is actually pretty good. He loves it, and it is so fun to watch him play. Marcus hasn't been able to make a game yet, due to his travel schedule, but that is ok, since I yell loud enough for the both of us.
Akhasa is such a complex person. I am enjoying (most days) watching her unfold into the woman God created her to be (yes, even at 7, she shows that kind of maturity). She loves rocks, especially precious stones, song writing and snuggling.
AND, as an added bonus to us, she is a great masseuse...she would win the "best massage by a seven-year-old" award, hands down!
I cannot say thanks enough for you partnership. I pray you have a merry and safe Christmas and that you remember the children that aren't safe this season: the trafficked, the enslaved, the child widow, the soldier, the street child, the begging 8 year old glue addict, the dump child, those used in films...the list goes on. Allow your heart to know their plight and ask what you can do about it. You would be surprised....
Much love and Merry Christmas from all The Youngs...
Marcus, Alyxius, Adrian, Rooke, Akhasa, Samara, Smokey the cat, Bluey the rat, Lisa the lizard, and 10 of the cutest chickens on the planet!
