Being away from home over the holidays is never easy, especially the weeks leading up to Christmas. But the funny things is, when you somewhat "dread" Christmas, your expectations are so low that when the day comes, nothing can let you down. So when the saddest-day-to-be-away-from-home arrived, it wasn't so sad after all... it was actually a very special, enjoyable time!
We spent Christmas Eve with Bryan and Maricel's extended family and enjoyed a Filipino feast, making friends, and lots of laughs (have I mentioned that Filipinos like to laugh.... a lot!!?!??!)
 |
ready to go out Christmas Eve.... no toques and wool coats
here, that's for sure! |
 |
| meeting Maricel's cousins |
 |
| oh dear... this video game was very entertaining! |
Christmas Day was enjoyed at home, with yummy home-cooking/baking, many presents for the kids sent from family and friends, our favourite Christmas tunes, a long and entertaining present-opening Skype visit with my family, and an unconventional hospital Skype date with Darnell's family (Darnell's dad broke his elbow Christmas Eve). We had a nice day as a family and it really felt very special.
 |
Cody enjoyed listening to his cousins sing Christmas carols, watching their
excitement of opening gifts, and seeing his cousin Lauren running around
in a vintage bird costume :) |
 |
| Can you believe this ALL came from home???!!! |
The weekend before Christmas was also full of festivities. We had our Peace Church friends over for a Christmas dinner, games and carol singing...
And we went for a day-trip (thanks to our new
vehicle!) to Laguna to attend the Sunday morning worship service and Christmas
party at Lumban Mennonite Bible Church. We had a great time connecting with our
friends there.
 |
| Cody always finds friends! |
 |
| We all piled into our vehicle for a little joy-ride to see the view of Laguna Bay. |
That sums up our Christmas. On Boxing Day we took a long trip up north to speak at the Mennonite Youth Camp... I'll save that, and our New Years celebration, for a later post:)
Happy New Year dear friends and family... love to you all!!!!
Thanks!!
ReplyDeleteHow was your visit with Greg and Carmen?
Happy New Year!
Love,
Marijke
Marijke, they are here right now!!! I'll blog about the time with them next week but we are having a great time with them. They're at a beach resort for a couple days right now but they'll be back tonight to spend a few more days with us. We're so thankful they could come visit!!! Happy New Year to you and your family too!
DeleteHey Darnell, Could you send me your email address? I'm trying to get a hold of you but have not been successful recently! MEI is coming your way! Heather
ReplyDeleteHey Heather, sounds like a party. Email me at cdbarkman@mennonitechurch.ca
Deletetalk to ya soon.