Merry Christmas everyone!Wishing you all a Christmas full of love, joyful expectation, and Christ's peace that passes understanding. What a beautiful season this has turned out to be, and how blessed we have been, with so much love, family, and new beginnings.
Both Matt and I have been blessed with the gift of work, and believe me we both understand just how blessed we are in this economy. I started on as a social worker at a nursing home in Federal Way (just North of Tacoma.) I'm doing mental health and crisis management, and helping people on rehab return home safely. I had no idea how much this job would keep me on my toes. There is definitely never a dull moment! Matt is a supervisor at a small factory in Lakewood (just South of Tacoma) with a company called Greatwide where they repair pallets. He's enjoying the smaller atmosphere, more leeway for making his own decisions and the bliss of having 1 boss instead of 6. He's getting to use a lot of his Spanish, and learning the invaluable Mexican idioms and dialect differences.
It has been so nice to be home and share Christmas with our families again, and all the little things about Christmas in the US that are so North American, like snowdrifts, candy canes, Christmas carolers, and old Dean Martin favorites. It has been so wonderful to share in the excitement of the season with our nephews for the first time, and to just cherish each special moment. Being able to go to Aiden's Christmas program was precious. He was so animated and had so much fun. No one can replace our girls in Chile, but it's amazing what a dose of the kidos with all their wonder and excitement can do for a home sick girl. Still, I can't help but wonder what the girls are up to, how they're doing, or think about their beautiful smiles... especially now - not only is it Christmas, but Summer vacation just started! Many of you have been asking if we have heard how the girls are doing. We have sent down cards, and a big Christmas package too, but haven't been able to call much, so we don't have many details. The girls have been doing well though. They have all been going to full day school with more time to complete their class work at school. Last year the girls would only have about 4 hours at school, and would have to catch up the additional class work at home - in other words an OVERDOSE of homework. More of the girls have been involved in after school activities too and really enjoying that time. Paloma was able to return home with her mother a few months ago, and we are so happy for her. It was a big step, and I know that it was a good one. We'll keep you posted as we hear more!
Sister Rosita finally got the money for the playground toy through to the Chilean account on December 15th. She is hoping to get everything built and in place as soon as possible. The first step will be preparing the ground site, flattening the little hill out, getting the retaining wall in, and putting down the pea gravel. We will keep you all posted on the progress. Every time I talk with her, or write her, she always asks me to thank EVERYONE who helped make this possible, and all the generous donors. The girls are so excited and so thankful!!! It's hard to believe that just last Christmas the dream was just beginning to form. Very soon it will be a reality! It really means a lot. So thank you all again soooo much!
Blessings and much love, to you and all your loved ones.
Love,
Janelle and Matt
3 comments:
Merry Christmas Janelle and Matt! We would love to see you! Let us know if you are driving through town during your holiday travel.
What a great letter Janelle! I'm so excited that you and Matt were able to get jobs. I've had you on my prayer list since I last saw you and have prayed that you would find something. So yeah! :) It's great to hear how the girls are doing as well. I am so excited for them to get their playground. Thank you again for the updates and lovely Christmas letter!
~Phil and Jody :)
Congratulations on both finding work! I hope all goes well for you!
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