harvest sunday

we had a great day yesterday for our harvest sunday. we had lunch at the church followed by an afternoon service. we also made some new friends who came as our guest speaker and family.  it's the closest thing to thanksgiving that we have here.  for the 2nd year in a row, we were able to get some gourds from our local florist.  most people around here aren't very familiar with them and even ask "what do you do with them?" but everyone seems to like them and for us they are a little bit of home.

a new tradition

it seems that abbie and i have begun a new tradition for our church-baby showers! they are not as popular over here as in the states but our ladies bible study has really gotten in to them! and last night was my turn. i had a few suspicions but overall i was surprised. i didn't have my camera so i just have the photo below of the presents. if i get any more photos, i'll try to post them. it was fun to have the girls come for part of it and see firsthand how the Lord is providing for us.

having a baby in another country far from family, friends and familiar medical care has had its challenges. thanks to a new friend who encouraged me with this verse:
"He will tend his flock like a shepherd;
he will gather the lambs in his arms;
he will carry them in his bosom,
and gently lead those that are with young."
Isaiah 40.11

ladies outing

we visited gwydir castle & gardens and had a cream tea down in llanrwst yesterday. the Lord gave us beautiful weather and great fellowship! it's hard to believe that we've been here for over 8 months. in some ways i feel like we've been here forever. in other ways i feel so unsure of everything and everyone. very thankful for the friendships that are beginning to form.

resurrection sunday

this is the best picture we got of the girls.

here are the kids saying john 11.25. maggie wouldn't say it and insists on my standing up there with her. daniel said it quietly. josie did a great job.