What a Friend...

We sang "What a Friend We Have in Jesus" during our time of Bible study this morning, and the words ministered to my heart in such a sweet way. I'm not discouraged at the moment or going through a trial (watch out, Anne! right?), but sometimes home and friends seem very far away from my little corner of the world. But what a precious thought that Jesus is my friend and I can take everything to Him in prayer - right here. Let the words of this song minister to your heart like they did to mine today...

What a friend we have in Jesus,

All our sins and griefs to bear!

What a privilege to carry

Everything to God in prayer!

Oh, what peace we often forfeit,

Oh, what needless pain we bear,

All because we do not carry

Everything to God in prayer!

Have we trials and temptations?

Is there trouble anywhere?

We should never be discouraged -

Take it to the Lord in prayer.

Can we find a friend so faithful,

Who will all our sorrows share?

Jesus knows our every weakness;

Take it to the Lord in prayer.

Are we weak and heavy-laden,

Cumbered with a load of care?

Precious Savior, still our refuge -

Take it to the Lord in prayer.

Do thy friends despise, forsake thee?

Take it to the Lord in prayer!

In His arms He'll take and shield thee,

Thou wilt find a solace there.

Where Did The Week Go?

The days just fly be here, so let's have a week in review via pictures, shall we?

We took our friends out to eat at a Chinese restaurant and I decided this is the biggest plate of pork fried rice I have ever seen! Oh, and the mushroom platter??? That was for my husband. :-)

Discovered an amazing view from a nearby mountain. We can't wait to go back and explore on a clear day!

That's a LOT of hay!

I loved having my friend and her husband here for a visit. What an enjoyable time sharing Thailand with them!

We have our ups and downs, but when my little guy smiles like this, he completely melts my heart.

A friend gave me Cadbury hot chocolate mix, so the first night that was even remotely chilly, I made some up and enjoyed it in my new mug.

Discovered a new cafe and restaurant or, as they label it, cafe and meal. ;-)

This little girl takes smoothies very seriously!

Fun Visitors!

We have absolutely loved having friends of ours visit for the last week or so! It's been so much fun hanging out together, talking and laughing long after our kiddos are in bed. We've also enjoyed a couple of game nights, one of our favorite ways to spend an evening. :-) 

Our friends tend to be more explorers and adventurers than, shall we say, shoppers, so between the four of us, we discovered plenty of cool things to see in nature.

{The Readers and Nat explored a cave}

{Ellie experienced her first elephant ride near this river}

{Took a hike that led to twin waterfalls}

{New pictures were needed for a prayer card/Christmas card, so we snagged a few mommy & baby poses as well}

{Such happy smiles}

I'm so thankful for sweet fellowship and precious friendship. We're sad to see our friends leave in the morning, but we are so grateful they came and spent the time with us!



(Photo credit: Ilona Reader)

Enjoying Life!

We've had our share of busy days with visitors coming and going, investing in people, and just simply enjoying the life we have!

Last weekend we were traveling, so we had the joy of sharing a room as a family. These two were so delighted with the king-size bed that they entertained themselves on it for a good two hours. 

This little guy just melts my heart...

Nat and some men were invited to teach in a mountain village... I wish I had taken a picture of the road going up to where Nat parked the car!

In the village.

The evening view outside our room... So pretty, especially during the day!

Hanging out at a kid-friendly coffee shop!

I have a huge fascination with what motorcyclists can carry on their bikes. This passenger definitely got creative!

You can't see him in the picture, but the driver is actually a motorcycle taxi. I would love to hear that conversation play out, "Can you pick up 10 plastic chairs and bring them to me?"

Family day!

Oh this kid... :-)

... and this one too!

We stopped for a donut on the way home from the store today. The uneaten donut in Paul's lap is a good indication of just how tired he was!