Raising Arrows

In the last few months, Tim and I have had good conversations and time of reflection on the past 16 months, since moving off the estate. We like our new home and the natural woods that surround it, along with the nice walking paths that are all around our new village - seriously, we can get nearly anywhere on a footpath! But all the while, our family is still drawn to the city centre. We knew this move was not to be a long term move, but a strategic one. A chance  to heal some wounds and give refuge to our weary hearts.  Now, a year and 4 months into life outside the estate, we are grateful to God for the insight and counsel He's given us. We wanted to share a bit of what we've learned and where He's leading.  1. TEAM / COMMUNITY  Simply put, we can't do this alone and weren't meant to be alone. Having folks who are with us and living in community with us is SO important. Weekly and monthly meals with other Christians living in city-centre Stockton is SO important. ...

after dealing a bad virus and a some snow, we decided it was best to move our campfire and smores indoors. So we roasted marshmallows over a candle with a christmas movie.   candlelight meals with friends are so special during this time of year! T and I were the only ones healthy enough to make the Light Parade in Stockton this year.  It was cold, but fuN! homesickness = lots of baking!  Sprits are my favorite. we joined other homeschoolers and a few primary schools  for a Rockin' Christmas Concert in Middlesborough. E was chosen to go up on stage to help with the 12 days of Christmas!   First Annual Family Candy Cane Hunt He just keeps loosing teeth! Tried my hand, solo, at the kids' favorite christmas cookie.  I was told they were as good as Nanny's, so I'll count that as a the highest praise! Ugly (L). Ugliest (middle two). Uglier (R)  This years winners at the Annual Keith Ugly Christmas Sweater Party! Our home was so full and it was so F...

 Applied for our next visa. Got BMRP's done. Make pumpkin pie from scratch. Put up our Christmas tree. Chased sunsets and watched for Northern Lights. Date night to a concert. School work. England games. And sickness. November held a lot for us but we made the best of each moment and celebrated Thanksgiving with a winter virus and a heart of gratitude for how well God has taken care of us this year.  E is becoming more and more confident in reading.  He read signs, books, letters, well nearly anything these days! date night with my teen = England football game  capturing a quiet moment in school, copy work from our narrations of the book of Mark a snapshot taken by E of the family working at the garden  one of last Fridays at the garden with the club.  our date morning in Newcastle - this cute little cafe was so nice!  Date night OUT!  We were gifted concert tickets to Ben Folds in Newcastle.  We had hotel points and decided to make a night o...