Christmas Kids Outreach

After a morning at the beach and afternoon of naps, we went to help with the local kids' outreach and feeding.

I later find out what I really look like--sharing with the kids about my testimony and teaching them a verse. You can see the meals over there to the left ready to go.

I shared how my sister, only six years old, led me to Christ when I was three. Jesus loves children. I love my friend, Emi, always helping me in ministry.

Kids are learning to say 1 Juan 4.14 in Cebuano.

This girl has it memorized and shares the Word with the other kids.

Micah's mandolin--I'm teaching them a song!

The kids will not go hungry.

Getting their meal and snack. Older help the younger.

One of our 12 sisters helping out. I love these ladies. Such huge hearts for the Lord.

Eating in the streets.

Nate brings the boys

That night we finally got to open the presents my mom left in the closet for us.

What a day! Time for bed.

Christmas At Paradise--Looking Forward to Paradise

Christmas is a celebration of our Savior, Jesus, who came to save us from our sin and give us eternal life in Him. We look forward to one day going to paradise to be with Him! However, this Christmas we went to "Paradise" on earth and had fun at the beach in the sun! If we can't be with our families we may as well enjoy the blessings of the Philippines!

Elijah is into boats and shovels, as you can see. He starts digging right when he sees sand.

Mama is going crazy with the pictures--Malachi's first Christmas! (Again, Sarah provides the outfits--Beach boy, hand-me-down--we're always thinking of you!)

I LOVE THIS ONE!!! Oh my heart soars with love.

Mama's attempt at a brothers monkey shirt picture--not working, but good try.

Malachi at the beach--getting his feet wet!

Monkey boys photo attempt number two--our first matching outfits =)

Beckers at the Beach--Merry Christmas!

I post this one for my sister (can you tell I'm missing her as I post!?). The travel bed still gets use. Look at your little lambs buddy!

Elijah found a little Philipina buddy. I was proud of him for branching out and meeting new friends.


Again, my little Malachi--precious!!

Last year Elijah was sticking his head in these coconuts--who knew a year later we'd have Malachi Tyndale!

And here we have it---Santa at paradise. We don't believe in Santa but I think this pic is ironic. If only they had a statue of frosty the snowman at the beach!

Christmas Eve and Christmas Morn

Christmas Eve we went to our Irish friends' house and had good times with other families with kids. My attempt at a family Christmas photo was not the best--green and red--cute---boys, not too happy. It's okay...maybe next time.

This is where the real party was at--the kids' room. Now my friend Rachel and I find ourselves laughing at what a difference holidays are for us (review the Thanksgiving post). We eat a bite, play with the kids, drink a sip and then feed a baby. Blessings!

Our precious kids! SMILE! Hahaha! CLASSIC...just look at these bundles of love.

Malachi was so joyful on Christmas Eve! Look at this guy smiling! (Wearing cousin Jonas' hand-me-down Nike shirt!).

Who was the first one up on Christmas Morn? This cheery boy--early riser. We went down for pictures together of his first Christmas. (Ernie will notice the ornaments he made that adorn our meager tree---Grandma will notice her quilt--THANK YOU!).

Baby's First Christmas!!!

Eljiah is ready for the beach!

Family Vacation--Just a Five Hour Bus Ride Away!

We took our first family vacation with the four of us. The day after Nate was done teaching we got a taxi and went to the bus station. When we loaded the bus we were the last ones on and had to sit in the very back row. We bounced all the way there but we made it!

Once there (my sister would say "WHERE?"--you'll see...) we had lots of family time in a peaceful place. Grass, trees, breezes....it was worth the winding roads through the mountains on a public bus with two little ones! I love our boys!

The Beckers four--we miss our family but are enjoying our little nuclear family while here.

I love Elijah's eyes and many joyful expressions.

Fun swimming with mosquitoes and playing on tractors.

Our friends also came to this place to visit their parents/grandparents. Elijah got in with the kids but wasn't so fond of the wheelbarrow ride.

Peaceful and precious moments with papa...what a serene place in nature to enjoy and rest.

Chase Mama! It was tricky getting Elijah to sleep in our room but we got a system worked out.

Elijah's favorite playmate is "Mama!" Playing "Hiding" and what a fun smile!

My boys--what a blessing from God!

Fun idea--brothers in the wagon--nope Malachi was not a fan.

This is not a good pic as a photographer, but I like it because it shows a common occurence that I find special. Mama was holding back to take a picture of her fam, but Elijah turned around and put up his hand to make sure I was coming too. He didn't want to take a walk unless I was coming. He makes me feel like the greatest lady in the world--I melt and take his hand.

Here it is---the place we went was Nasuli, a translation center for more than 50 years. It is closing down now so it was our last chance to visit. It is kind of like family camp with different houses "cabins' and a guest house where we stayed. Grass and trees in the middle, they ring the bell for church and you can hear everything across the courtyard. A nice place to visit--glad it has served its purpose and now will be turned over to another ministry.

So many new places to explore. It was so good for me to get out--me the travel woman--I realize I have not left the city since Elijah and I went to China in February. That must be a record for me of not going anywhere!

Beautiful rural Philippines...and my true love holding our son. Thank you, Lord, for the family times together in Your creation!

First Haircut & Fun With Friends

After 19 months of life it was time for a haircut. I had been waiting for a long time for a chance to get pictures since there is a space in Elijah's baby book for this momentous occasion.

To get him to sit still we had to give him scissors of his own and he cut the plants, as you can see here. He was getting quite the curly locks there wafting in the wind. He looks more grown up now.

Malachi and his friend, Kaileigh. Jeralyn helped me with the cut. This picture is quite a catch for a lady like me! (Sarah--"FRAMABLE")

And, the new do...stylish!

Random pic--Mother sees child sleeping so peacefully--camera!

One of Elijah's best friends, Sojo, came to play. I love the colorful ball pics!

Malachi is not so sure he likes the ball bath.

Elijah can't wait for his new playmate to grow up--he loves putting balls and toys on Malachi's head.