Let it Snow!

Well, we've had quite the restful first week here in London town; partly due to a longer-than-usual spell of jet-lag - our bodies go into "wake up!" mode just when it's time to go to bed - and partly because it's been snowing a bit here, which apparently is rare and a very big deal for this nation of cottages, gardens and tea-cozy's; such a big deal, in fact, that the Department of Transportation decided that no trains should run to the station near where we live (even though it was sunny and hadn't snowed in 4 days), leaving us with no other choice than to stay put.

This said, a few of our London Christmas plans have had to go out the window... But it's really okay! We've been blessed to spend more time with our dear friends, the Coates's. It's been a wonderful season of renewed fellowship and community sharing, leaving us blessed all around.

On another note: when was the last time you walked into a McDonald's and heard your favorite Celtic Christian progressive rock band playing through the speakers? That's precisely what happened today when we took the Coates children to the "golden arches" to play at the attached play space. You'd think there would be a steady playlist on a fast-food chain approved radio station consisting of all the recent pop hits, but not at this McDonald's!

Playing back and forth between tracks from big name acts like Beyonce Knowles was the song "Matthew-The Man" from Iona's early 90's "Book of Kells" release; and it just so happens that this is 9 year-old James Coates's favorite song! Period. He loved it! Must be a God thing. :)

The Book of Kells is most likely the most ancient and elaborate version of the four gospels ever recorded, and done so by early Irish monks. It can be viewed the Trinity College library in Dublin, Ireland. Google it.

Here's the lyrics to the above-mentioned track, referring to the Gospel of Matthew:

"Matthew - The Man"

The tears that salt the earth
The wounds that bleed the land
The mark of ancient scars
These are the ways of man

The sound of restless souls
That pierce beyond the skies
The love that seeks release
The mind that tries to find
A place of peace

There is a place of peace
There is a sea of calm
Where the Spirit gently breathes
Life into the soul of man

And in another realm
Beyond the plains of Earth and time
Where angels gaze upon
The man of truth and light

Blessings of Peace and Love,
 Joey and Christy