A Quick Update

It seems so much has happened and yet not much at all. This is the off season for us, not many visitors coming through the gates, yet I seem to find myself busier than ever. But, busy is a good thing. I enjoy making new acquaintances via email and helping them plan their trips. I like looking at the empty schedule sheet and filling it in to capacity. This summer is going to a crazy one with guests and interns, but it looks to be exciting. It will be a real test of just how much I have learned because for at least 2 months, I will be without the Bakers. However, in their absence, I will inherit a house, 2 dogs, and something like 8 turtles. Yes, I get to house sit all summer with Chrissy which will be a nice escape from the crazy at the end of each day. I am looking forward to riding a bike to and from work. I am looking forward to having a kitchen that is mine. But I am jumping a little too far ahead.... Before we even make it to the summer, I am heading back to California for sixteen days. I am so excited for this trip. I've already planned out my first few days of meals. Yes, I am planning my visit around food because there are some things I still can't get here. I will be home for Easter which will be nice because I will get to see a lot of family. I know my thoughts are scattered right now, but maybe a few photos will catch you all up on what has been happening this month.......

Viv is here and turned 17

I ate a lot

Henry is just as handsome as ever

Anabel Lee learned a new face

Stacey turned 22

Miracle Baby

Today our sweet Amity returned home after having emergency, life saving surgery at a hospital in Beijing. She still has a battle ahead of her in this very cold season, but we are trusting the Lord. He provides and cares for His children. What a blessing to see her so full of color and life! Continue to pray for her fragile heart...

Thank you...

I usually write of the smiles and good times and post pictures of beautiful children, but it is not always smiles and good times and beauty. I just hit my three month mark, and while I didn't have the nightmares of the one month mark, it has definitely been the hardest milestone. The spiritual attack and spiritual dryness has been rampant. I can honestly say I have lost focus. I have forgotten why I am here. I have neglected quiet times and strayed from prayer. I have picked fights with those I love. And now here I am, standing in the new year, knee deep in realizations. I am looking forward now to a renewed spirit, to a deeper love, to a greater understanding. I share this because, you, my friends, you are my accountability. You are my prayer warriors. You are my brothers and sisters. Thank you for sticking by me all this time. Thank you for praying with me and for me. Thank you for loving me, especially when I make myself unlovable. Thank you.

Psalm 31:5 "Into Your hand I commit my spirit; You have redeemed me, O Lord, faithful God."

Continuing Christmas (because I am irresponsible)

The title is true. I have been irresponsible. Back in the beginning of November, Gretchen sent a couple of things for Henry. My job was to deliver them, however, I instead put them on my table in my room and completely forgot about them. From time to time I would glance at them and think, "I should really get that taken care of," but then I would continue about my day without doing it. Today, December 27, I decided it was about time for me to be responsible. I continued Christmas for Henry Hill by delivering his gifts from his mama. Of course he can't know yet that he has a family waiting for him, but he was very excited to get Christmas presents, and even more excited when I told them they came all the way from America. He told Eric nice and loud where his book came from. Even though it was irresponsible of me to hang on to the gifts for so long, it was rather fun to deliver them as Christmas gifts. I hope these pictures will put forgiveness in his mother's heart now that I've finally done my job :)

Thank you!

Showing Eric his book

Looking at all the pictures

P.S. I am glad I was the messenger because I got the sweetest hugs and kisses