Welcoming in 2014

New Year's Eve ended up being a full evening for us. James had continued painting our church gym in the afternoon, and then we quickly figured out if we could get anyone to join us in the last few hours of 2013. :) Micah and Krisandra, their two girls, and Les and Ashie and their kids, plus Shantel, came over and we a great time together. William joined us a bit later on, and we ate some yummy snacks, and played a few games.

The kids playing Jenga.

Krissy and Micah during Qwirkle.

Les and Ashie with one of their boys.

Erik and Darius. The kids played quite well together, and then later on, we put on a "Road to Avonlea" for them to settle down to. :)

William arm wrestling Kaius.

Les and Ashie had to go before midnight, but the rest of us stayed up as we got into the beginning of a game of "Settlers".

Then - 2014 arrived - with some kisses, hugs, and a quick cleanup of the game.

Another year has dawned...

Another year is dawning, dear Father, let it be
In working or in waiting, another year with Thee.
Another year of progress, another year of praise,
Another year of proving Thy presence all the days.

Another year of mercies, of faithfulness and grace,
Another year of gladness in the shining of Thy face;
Another year of leaning upon Thy loving breast;
Another year of trusting, of quiet, happy rest.

Another year of service, of witness for Thy love,
Another year of training for holier work above.
Another year is dawning, dear Father, let it be
On earth, or else in Heaven, another year for Thee.

-Frances R. Havergal