Together

Matt rode the bus to Nairobi about a week ago to spend time with friends and await the arrival of the rest of the fam. Jenna and Amy arrived (a bit crumpled and bleary eyed as I understand it) on the 21st, but their bags decided they wanted to overnight in London. They came riding merrily out of the baggage conveyor belt the following evening. They spent a very interesting day visiting some residents of one of the distressed neighborhoods of Nairobi with some missionary acquaintances who run a school there. They took the bus here Christmas Eve. In the meantime (knowing Matt was taking good care of his sisters) Tim and I relaxed here in Arusha and took in a deeply meaningful and softly beautiful candlelight service at a local community church. We're grateful for these traditions that carry with them treasured memories of you - friends and family -as they echo through the years to touch us now and remind us of the truths that light our way. We've managed to bring some Christmas traditions with us; Stewart's breakfast casserole; Gert's snickerdoodles; weird candy in the stockings; and even the Muppet Christmas Carol DVD.  May you have a merry Christmas too as we celebrate the Child who is our light and our hope.