The Stare Down

the Perfect Pecan Pretzel

My mother-in-law dipped pretzels in almond bark for a snack one day. Everyone ate them so fast I didn't get any. When she decided to make them again the next day I went over and "helped" make them to make sure that I actually got some that time. I remember in 5th grade not liking sweet & salty things, I even felt a little nauseous when I ate a chocolate covered pretzel. I certainly have gotten over that, I couldn't eat enough of these.

Bathtime Buddies

Today I gave both my children a bath and to save time I did it at the same time. Of course I had my new camera right by my side (since it hasn't really left my side since I got it, you might even find me sleeping with it). I snapped this photo and thought is was really cute, I love my daughter's super sized eyes.

In Focus?

During the Christmas season there are many things that you can put your focus on, presents, decorations, food, family . . . This is the first Christmas that my daughter was really able to understand what the true meaning of Christmas is. For the month of December we read through a advent calendar of events that explained the story of Christ's birth. It's so easy, especially children to focus on opening presents and getting, getting, getting. I really wanted to have my daughter think about giving and others. I can't say that I succeeded but we will not give up.

A Year of Ups & Downs

2009 started off with a special trip to Beijing to confirm that my second pregnancy was fine after having a slight scare. The rest of the year followed suit with lots of simultaneous good and hard times.

We started off the summer with 6 weeks of full-time Chinese study while my 3 year old daughter began Chinese preschool. At the end of the summer, we then headed to Beijing and welcomed our little boy into the world 2 weeks early. I was elated to meet him, but sad that my sister, who had been planning to be there, missed it.

Shortly after our son was born he lost over 15% of his birth weight, becoming scary skinny and dehydrated. I had to concentrate on his gaining weight, but was extremely blessed by the support of my husband, sister and good friends. I am happy to say we now have a happy, plump baby.

My father, after suffering for 2 years from MS, left this world and his decrepit body and was made whole in Heaven. (His mother also went to be with the Lord just a few weeks before he did.) My entire family was able to get together, mourn over our loss, celebrate my father's inspiring life and rejoice in the fact that he is now worshiping at Jesus' feet. I was glad in the fact that my husband was able to travel to America with me and that my family got to hold my precious new born (only 5 weeks old at the time).

We have ended the year spending Christmas and New Year's with my husband's family for the first time since we have been married. It has been a big blessing to make these memories together as a family.

Even during the hard times I was able to rest in the Savior and find peace. Looking back I can even see how God has worked everything out and how His timing was, and will continue to be, perfect! Thanks for giving us a great year full of blessings.


Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth,
Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide;
Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow,
blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside!

Great is Thy faithfulness! Great is Thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning new mercies I see.
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided.
Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!