Winter in London

The snow has been fun for Christmas-time, but this part of England hardly ever gets snow so they have been shutting down all sorts of things and having a tough time driving...
We had a blessed Christmas including carols, candles, a couple hours of playing tag in the park and an amazing meal un-like any American Christmas dinner!

There are all kinds of little discoveries every day about English culture -
It is a joy to be able to learn.

(Sidenote: The yogurt you can buy here is so delicious - and comes in tons of flavors we don't have in the states. Rhubarb is the best!)

This time in England has been a blessing- time to read and take lots of walks, as well as lots of time spent with the family we are staying with. We have played a lot of hide and seek, making animals out of baloons, and other creative ventures with the 4 kids who are here. They are treasures!
We've also been cooking, cleaning and gardening around the house.

A book we've been enjoying is "Life-Journey - A call to Christ-centered Living".  It is filled with poetry and art focused on Christ and His love.

Here is a prayer from that book:

Healing Lord,
Open the hearts of those in
conflict, help them to receive
your healing.

Merciful Lord,
May our human hearts never
harden to the suffering caused by
the absence of peace, help us to
yearn for peace.

Almighty Lord,
Help us to see where we are
avoiding reconciliation, please
grant us opportunities and the
will to change.

Here is the house we are staying in - Bless the Coates family Jesus!

Thank you all for your Christmas notes, prayers and love!

We are leaving for Northern Ireland in 5 days - We'll be in touch!
Love in Christ,
-The Rauwolfs