The last few months have flew by... Joshua's birthday party / Halloween bash was a blast! Everyone dressed up in their costumes, painted and decorated pumpkins and lots of food to name a few great things we did.

With Thanksgiving past and Christmas approaching, Chong & I are getting excited to closing off this year with good tidings and cheer. With the end of Chong's 1st semester in nursing school, and Helen's new job beginning in the new year, there's a lot of things to be thankful for! Mostly, seeing my brother Daniel who visited for 14-days in November. As a sister, I do confess that although every year it was sad seeing him leave for China, this year left a particular pain in my heart than I can't quite explain. His presence this Thanksgiving really reminded me of God's goodness and provision that we often fail to recognize day to day. I have seen a man devote himself to the calling of God's love, a love that sacrifices self for a love of others. Daniel was the greatest gift I needed this season and I miss him everyday.

This year is a little more challenging than last when the children didn't interact with each other as much as they do now. Last year, Eliana just starting walking and Joshua didn't pay much attention to her. Now with their blasts of laughter together, also come the blasts of tears (mainly from Eliana b/c Joshua is too rough)... this has been the most trying time for us as growing parents. We've embraced every challenge with the help from God who empowers us to teach, direct and guide their growing hearts. It's seems that selfishness and impatience (along with maturity) is the main issue at times. We have seen God working in their hearts each day as they come to realize the need to love each other. The lesson of the need to love others has been a reflection in my own heart this year as how I should demonstrate that myself. It has been a joy serving our children and our Great God, even in the little screams of "Mine" fights.

With each echo of hearing Eliana's high pitched, mouse like voice call "mommy", & little wet kisses first thing in the morning, & her little fingers against mine pulling me to the play room.... these memories bring inexpressible joy. What a privilege to this life, despite the challenges, failures and disappointments.... because Life is Still Good.... because our God is Still Good....