Donna:
“Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. Luke 2:10,11
The first birthday celebration in December began with Riley’s Birthday, the first day of the month! We were blessed to have time together with her in Portugal and get to know her better. She is a brave as well as kind little soldier and we pray for her protection and good health in the coming year!
Initially, we had a lot of preparations yet to make for the arrival of Phil, Julie, Zac and Riley. Finishing touches to the cabin and surroundings were accomplished. We planted a clementine and an orange tree, replaced an olive tree as well as various flowering bushes that should endure the cold winter to come. Thankfully, lots of rain this month has enabled these new trees to continue flourishing.
Gabriel also had his birthday on the 23rd! Both he and Emanuel enjoyed another great camping trip in Hong Kong. They are refining their tactics and have found amazing ways to tackle the outdoors and enjoy it’s beauty! We see that he was playing tennis and enjoying quality time with family! Selma, Selen’s mom, was in Macau for her birthday as well! The three of them took a trip to visit the rice fields in northern Thailand which they enjoyed very much! Prayers for a good year for Gabriel and Selma!
Next came the birthday celebration of the month! Christmas! Whether we get the exact date correct, the significance of Christmas is what we celebrate. ‘”Emanuel, God with us!” God entering into humanity! Philip and Julie traveled from afar to add joy and love to our family gatherings! We were able to visit our extended family together,:one opportunity was with Uncle Fernando and Aunt Adozinda at their farm and another with Uncle Antonio and Aunt Olinda at their home! Lots of conversations and catching up to do, as some have not been together for over 12 years now. We also joined with Nuno’s family to share the warmth of family at Christmas! These were lovely occasions, full of joy and good will! Peace on earth, good will to men!
As following blessed traditions, Cristy and Nuno opened their home to us on Christmas Eve and hosted a lovely meal, a “Consoada”, the traditional Christmas Eve Dinner. We also had a wonderful time singing carols and eating delicious deserts along with some of Nunu’s family. On Christmas Day we were at home with Gloria, Jason and Phil, Julie, Zach and Riley to enjoy a nice lamb roast and exchange gifts. We read the Gospel of Luke 2, and thanked the Lord for the gift of His son Jesus! All beautiful memories to be cherished for years to come. We also received pics, and chatted with our family in Macau and that was heartwarming as well! Thanks a lot!
At the farm, although it was quite cold and rainy most of the time, we did have some outside activities. Julie started a big fire to burn all the branches left after the harvests and we all joined in to feed it. We planted a young cedar tree together, the first of many. The men were able to visit some castles in Belmonte and see the street Nativity Scene in Sabugal. Later, down in Lisbon, we all visited the Palmela castle braving wind and freezing cold!
Now, the New Year has arrived which we look forward to in faith and believing in his grace for every day and every situation. We are honored to read everyone’s prayer requests and thank you for sharing your thoughts and new year resolutions. We continued to pray for you all!
“The Lord bless thee and keep thee: The LORD make HIs face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee; The Lord lift up His countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.” Numbers 6:24-26.
Love and prayers.
Images of the month:
MORE FAMILY PICTURES FOR 2025 HERE
