We spent Christmas Eve evening with new friends here in Thailand and learned a new Christmas tradition. Each year, each member of this beautiful family gives a gift to Jesus, we had the privilege of joining in on the tradition this year. It was a precious opportunity that helped us focus on the reason we celebrate Christmas, as well as getting to know each other even better. I wish all of you could know the Penningtons. Julie's two favorite words are precious and beautiful and they describe her perfectly. She is the director of the elementary program at FLC, teaches and is a mom of three. Brent, who always has a smile on his face and a sparkle in his eye, is the director of FLC in charge of teaching several classes, developing vision for the school and working on fundraising. Both of our girls are privileged to have him as a teacher. Ben is in seventh grade. He is the oldest son, he is quiet and smart, and loves to play board games. Kate is in fifth grade with all the sparkle of her dad and the beautiful spirit of her mom. Jack is five, he has more energy and strength than anyone I've ever met, and is presently enjoying dragging around their two month old puppy everywhere he goes.
Christmas day we spent at home with just the four of us, a first. Several of our wonderful friends here did invite us to join them, but we were in the mood to stay home. We enjoyed playing Apples to Apples with new cards from home, opening gifts, watching most of A Christmas Story online and just being together. It almost felt like Christmas except for the 85 degree weather.
Christmas Day Pictures
The girls with their presents:
Lindsey
Megan