In a month traditionally associated with Thanksgivings, we admittedly are on the receiving end of a multitude of mercies graciously bestowed upon us. We can in no wise confine our giving of thanks to one particular day, but are constantly in need of expressing our gratitude to the One who has given us everything! In Him we live, in Him we move, in Him we have our being! Actually, I think God delights in  perfecting in us the art of being thankful. The Bible instructs us to thank God for His goodness and loving-kindness.  “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good. His mercy endureth forever.” Psalm 136:1. It actually instructs us to be thankful for everything.  “ Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; Giving thanks ALWAYS FOR ALL THINGS, unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ .Eph 5:19,20.  Could that include thankfulness even when our activities are limited due to physical restraints; thankfulness even when we are separated from loved ones; thankfulness for life itself although it doesn’t always take the shape and form we expect it to? Job summed it up perfectly; “Naked came I out of my mother’s womb, and naked shall I return thither: the Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.” Job 1: 21

Thanksgiving dinner on a Sunday –

This month we were so happy to receive a precious gift from God naked out of her mother’s womb! A beautiful baby girl was delivered into her mother and father’s arms on Saturday, December 1st at 10: 26 am, in Seattle, Washington. Julie was blessed with a very easy and short labour. The delivery proceeded without any complications and the nurses were so impressed with Philip’s aptitude as a coaching support that they allowed him to assist in the receiving end of the delivery! Both mommy and baby are doing well and returned home the very next day and we were able to see them on Skype! God is gracious, and as grandparents and uncles and aunties we are anxiously awaiting the next family reunion!

Philip and Julies’ precious bundle of joy.

Back at home, we continue learning.  Jason continues with his Chinese studies. Also, after studying about viruses and bacteria in Biology class, he came down with a very high fever and it was no longer only academics on how pathogens wreak havoc in our body systems. After recurrent knee issues, Donna is researching natural sources to replenish cartilage, synovial fluid and collagen in joints. Gloria continues to study anatomy in Portugal everything from the nerves of the brain to those in the tips of the toes. Emanuel has one last exam to pass and we are all looking forward to Christmas holidays!

Jason with his Chinese teacher

With friends on Sunday morning fellowship

Playing with local football team