Gratitude

To the Faithful One who has seen me through with grace and mercy.

Recalling the events of the year has caused me to once again acknowledge the Almighty One for His abundance upon me.

In January, He has led me to a calling never before would I ever imagine could happen. To lead a home school and back to basics; it is learning and teaching again albeit a different programme and set up. It has since then been occupying me and my obligation to make it work burn daily in me. God's divine intervention and presence I have felt and seen. Thank you dear God for allowing an opportunity so alien and yet compelling.

The family trip to Turkey was a treat in February. So Asian and European at the same time, the land has opened my eyes to a world of different culture, religion and the thick history so appealing. Visiting the lands of the 7 churches and the ruins of Ephesus was nostalgic as it reflected the reality of the Bible in my readings.

In the wishing well near Mary, the mother of Jesus' home, Esther said that my prayer for her to have a boyfriend has been answered. 

In June, the little one of the home tied her marital knot with Garrett; her boyfriend of a decade.

It was a happy day and the couple finally completed their vow with everyone's blessing. I am glad she has taken the decision and on to her next course of action in her well-planned life.

With the wedding behind and things back to normal, it is travelling for us again. To the land of the rising sun, so beautiful and unforgettable. You have to be there to witness and feel to understand me better. I learn the cultured way of seeing things, many of which I shared with my prodigy, the most memorable one being the clean seats in toilets with gadgets to wash during big and small businesses.

A very contented couple savoring the intricacies of Japanese beliefs and way of life. Yes, I will visit other parts of the country when our currency puts up a better show in the future; let it be as soon as possible I pray.

September cannot just come and go without an event especially with the long Hari Raya break. So, the itchy feet brought us to a land nearer home; Saigon.

In Vietnam, we realized the hardworking populace has taken over our country in education and trade. This is proven in the status of the nation in international tests. I was appalled to find out that I had to fork a lot of money to buy a top in a mall in Saigon city. When were we overtaken? I had to admit but it is reality.
Truly saddened.

Soon, the end of the year came by. But missing the little grandchild empowered us to take many weekend trips to play with the darling.

While in her mummy's womb, I laid hands over the scanned image of her and asked God to present a child who will bring joy to everyone around her. Emily is a joyous character with little fuss. Even when mummy and daddy left her for a trip overseas, she does not give problems to those who babysit her. We thank God for this sweet disposition.

Christmas came and went.
What other better way than to spend it with all loved ones especially with my dear parents who are nonagenarians. Mum's determination to defy the odds in fighting against a fall saw her back to her legs. She will bear all pains to accomplish her best and she now can walk. She has taught perseverance and her tough spirit is hard to emulate.
We praise God for His unending mercies and grace upon the home.

To God be the glory for the year 2016.

Thank you dear Jesus for undeserving grace.

We look forward to 2017 with a prayer that You will keep us under your guiding hand and protection; that you will watch all our going outs and coming ins and cover us with your precious blood and covenant.

Amen.