Happy New Year!

Happy Chinese New Year, that is!
We were invited to a JaoZi party the other night. I was excited because we don't go to many "parties" these days unless they are for kids. I was also excited because Chinese food was involved and it was made by Chinese people. Jaozi are what we usually see as "dumplings" at restaurants. The tradition is that on Chinese new year groups of family and friends get together and roll out the dough, make the filling, stuff the dumplings, steam them and then of course eat them. We arrived mostly for the eating part, but it was fun anyway.
I have been involved in "Friendspeak" now for six months or so. It is like the stateside version of "Let's Start Talking." We do it at the church here. Right now all of our students are Chinese. It has been really good for me to participate in. It is fun and is a challenge.
I have enjoyed getting to know LiYan and of course would take her up on her invitation to go visit her in China if given the opportunity.

Did You?

Did You?

I think that these elections are different than other years in that I feel like more people will go out and vote since there is so much at stake. But, for some reason, I wonder if I'm just getting old. I remember not being interested in politics not very long ago. Four years ago we were in Mexico and I didn't vote and eight years ago I honestly don't remember any reason why I didn't vote; but I didn't. So, yet one more thing I'll blame on my kids. I guess I care more about the future because of our kids.

Sacred

Paul bought a new Caedmon's Call cd. I read the lyrics to this song and it immediately brought tears to my eyes. This is for all my friends who are moms. I hope it encourages you.
Kim, I read this right after our last talk. I love you. You speak God's words to me.

Sacred
words and Music by Randall Goodgame and Andrew Osenga

This house is a good mess
It's the proof of life
No way would I trade jobs
but it don't pay overtime
I'll get to the laundry
I don't know when
I'm saying a prayer tongiht
Cause tomorrow it starts again

Could it be that everything is sacred?
And all this time
Everything I've dreamed of
Has been right before my eyes

The children are sleeping
But they're running through my mind
The sun makes them happy
And the music makes them unwind
My cup runneth over
And I worry about the stain
Teach me to run to you
Like they run to me for every little thing

Could it be that everything is sacred?
And all this time
Everything I've dreamed of
Has been right before my eyes

When I forget to drink from You
I can feel the banks harden
Lord, make me like a stream
To feed the garden
Wake up, little sleeper
The Lord, God Almighty
Made your Mama keeper so rise and shine
Rise and shine cause

Could it be that everything is sacred?
And all this time
Everything I've dreamed of
Has been right before my eyes