I'M SPENDING CHRISTMAS WITH
JESUS CHRIST THIS YEAR

I see the countless Christmas trees
around the world below;
With tiny lights like Heaven's stars
reflecting on the snow.

The sight is so spectacular
please wipe away that tear;
For I am spending Christmas
with Jesus Christ this year.

I hear the many Christmas songs
that people hold so dear;
But the sounds of music can't compare
with the Christmas choir up here.

For I have no words to tell you
the joy their voices bring;
It is beyond description
to hear the angels sing.

I know how much you miss me,
but please remember dear,
That I am spending Christmas
with Jesus Christ this year.

I cannot tell you of the splendor,
of the peace inside this place;
Can you just imagine Christmas
with Our Savior, face to face?

I will ask Him to light your spirit
as I tell Him of your love;
So pray for one another
as you lift your eyes above.

Please let your hearts be joyful
and let your spirit sing;
For I am spending Christmas in Heaven
And walking with the King !

Author Unknown

Merry Christmas To All

Wishing you and your family

a very merry Christmas

and a delightful New Year

full of peace and joy

comfort and goodwill

from all of us here in Africa!

(woof!)

"We're going to the zoo today"

Holly and I took the kids to the zoo today, with some help from one of our volunteer families (and their 10-seater van!). It was a great day and the kids had so much fun seeing the animals in real life that they've learned about in the movies and books. My princess especially had a great time, and talked our ears off! That's her above with the polar bear. Did you know that polar bears slither? Actual fact! We got to see it getting down off this rock and that's definitely the word for it's method of descent!

We also took along a snack (Christmas cookies, which the kids helped me bake the night before) and ate them while watching the LIONS! Unfortunately, I hadn't planned quite as well for lunch, and we ended up having to eat at Cafe Fino, as the hot dog stands are only open at the weekend. The kids enjoyed it though!

Our little man looking very stylish in his hat, which he, of course, didn't want to keep on! This is probably one of the last things we'll do with him before he goes! :-(

The girls and a pig! There's a big scene in Barbie: Princess and the Pauper involving pigs, so they were a big hit!

And, lastly, my princess clearly takes after her Auntie Anna and not me! She LOVED the snake exhibit and we had to spend ages looking at the snakes in each cage. I had my game face on though, and she left with the belief that Mommy totally LOVES snakes too! :-)