"Feliz Mom and Dad!"

We've been listening to our new favourite Christmas carol in our home recently, and it's been quite hilarious to hear our children at their attempts to speak Spanish (or sing, as it were). We have had many variations of "Feliz Navidad" sung, but our favourite was Levi's "Feliz Mom and Dad" with Daisy echoing a quarter note behind. Fun times indeed.

Our 3-ring circus continues over here. With Darryl gone most mornings by 5:30 am (amazing, I know!) I am left to coral my munchkins and get them to where they need to be. Colton and Levi are loving their time at Prince Charles Elementary, just down the hill from us. Levi is flourishing in Kindergarten and Colton continues to amaze us with his eagerness to excel in Grade 2. Daisy started preschool this year (Tuesday and Thursday mornings) and is loving it too.

It's been a bit of an adjustment for Mama Bear without all her cubs at home, but I'm surviving. I'm trying to do things for myself while the critters are all in their places. That consists of some exercise and a Bible Study with an amazing group of friends. We studied Beth Moore's " A Woman's Heart: God's Dwelling Place," which I highly recommend. It will change your life.

While our kids really enjoy school, their passions lie in other areas. Colton is happiest when he's on the ice playing with his team-mates on the Abbotsford Canucks. Levi has developed a real liking for gymnastics--its a good release for his bouncing-off-the-walls energetic personality. Miss Daisy has taken a liking to dance this year. She doesn't like all the attention all on her, but is eager to participate with all the other ballerinas in her class. It is priceless.

Darryl is busy as usual with work, and remains involved at our church. He continually amazes me with his dedication to our family and our faith.

We are heading on a cruise this Christmas. I feel undeserving of such a luxurious vacation, but decided I'd be a good sport and tag along...:). It got me thinking though...It got me thinking of the offer of God's grace and mercy. I feel so unworthy of His love and grace in my life, but I humbly accept it and allow His spirit to work in my life. (Why is this so much harder to do than take someone up on their offer to take you to Mexico?!) I know that this letter will find you all in very different spaces this holiday season. Some are rejoicing the birth of a new babe, a job promotion, or a great financial year, while some are facing great financial turmoil, sickness, mourning the loss of someone very dear, depression, etc. In church this past weekend,we were led through a great study of Luke 2. Please take the time to be encouraged by listening to the podcast of this Dec. 14, 2008 sermon. While we don't always understand where God takes us, for good or bad, we can rest assured knowing that it is part of His plan for us and He will make it good.

Friends, we would like to wish you the most amazing Christmas season, celebrating the hope that came to us many years ago wrapped in swaddling clothes. It is our sincere hope that you would experience God's love in all it's glory. If you think you're not worthy of it, you're right...because none of us are--but that's just the point. God's love is an amazing gift available to whomever will humbly receive it.

The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.
Numbers 6: 24-27

Wishing you a hopeful family-filled Christmas,
"Feliz Mom and Dad!"

Darryl & Corina
Colton, Levi, & Daisy