Ice skating

When we took our youth ice skating last year, it went so well that we decided to go again this year. My roommate Angela suggested that we take them downtown to an outdoor rink. I'm so glad we did, it was a great experience! The atmosphere was fun, the kids loved iceskating, and I was amazed that no one complained about the cold. Even our kids who never skated before had fun. We had some trying spins, skating backwards and creative falling techniques. Many kids in the city never go iceskating (though they are pros on rollerskates!), so it was a good opportunity for them to try something new.

Last Saturday, I had the priviledge of going over to one of our families for dinner. It was a late birthday/early Christmas celebration. This family has come to mean so much to me. The grandma and her kids and grandkids are all actively involved in our program. Some sweet memories were created as we talked, laughed, sang Christmas karaoke & had pizza. I feel honored to be welcomed so warmly into this family. And it was an example of how God uses the people we minister to to bless us.

I am now on vacation until mid-Janaury. I'm thankful for this opportunity to take a break and get away for a bit. I'll be able to visit family in New Hampshire, go to Maryland to visit a friend and then down to North Carolina to see another friend. It's been awhile since I was able to get away for this long of time and have a vacation (as oppose to traveling for conferences etc). Even though I'm excited, there is still a part of me that is going to miss Highland Park and our families. If you think of it, please pray for me that it will be spiritually and physically relaxing (and renewing!) and that I will have a peace about being gone.

I hope you all have a very Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!!!!!