Happy Birthday, Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year!

We had a festive, tropical holiday season in Jamaica! It started with Jasmine & Chloe celebrating their 8th birthday on the 22nd. They had a princess tea party hosting all the children.

On Christmas Eve morning, our family opened gifts.

Emma was so excited about her doll from Grandma & Grandpa Stutzman. Thank you!

That evening, we had a dinner together, then let the children open new pajamas to wear that night.

After they were settled in bed, the staff gathered again for an evening of games, music, a gift exchange, and a movie.

Christmas Day dawned bright and sunny.

Everyone gathered for a large Christmas brunch. We read the Christmas story, then the children opened gifts.

Since none of us had ever gone swimming on Christmas Day, we jumped in the pool in the afternoon.

The day ended as beautifully as it started.

We celebrated New Year's Eve on the roof, watching several fireworks shows in the bay at midnight.

Rose's brother Kevin & his wife Rosetta came to visit and joined us over New Year's. Our "visitors' season" has begun, and we are all excited about seeing family and friends!

As I reflect over 2014, I can see God moving in so many ways. There were good times, there were tough times, but I am excited about a new year; not because I think that everything will be good, but because I know that God is good!

I don't have a sign of the week, but I will leave you with this picture:

Have a blessed New Year!
Kevin