The Johnstons' Journal

The gardens at Philbrook

2009-08-22T20:48:00.000-07:00

2009-08-22T17:27:00.000-07:00

Another thing we enjoyed with the Harrises was our children's creativity together. We were thoroughly entertained, almost nightly, with plays. There were scripts, rehearsals, songs, costumes, playbills, programs, etc. Very impressive!

Who knew what creative children we had in the home?

Such talent!

Oklahoma!

2009-08-22T17:19:00.000-07:00

Did you know the state song of Oklahoma is the Rogers and Hammerstein song "Oklahoma"? We of course couldn't let the Harrises leave without a chance to see the musical. Armed with plenty of bug spray, and thankful for a relatively cool evening, we really enjoyed the performance.

After the show, we went down to meet the cast. We had to be careful where we walked because this outdoor show came complete with horses and wagons!

Here are the girls with Ado Annie and her beau, Will.

And, of course, we had to meet Laurey, the Belle of Claremore. We even know where Claremore is now...

Anna set her hat for Curley, the leading man.

The children were thrilled to get autographs after the performance and the actor/actresses also enjoyed the British accents of our friends. Ali Hakim, the "wandering persian peddler" below, will be wandering to London this fall for an acting opportunity. Wonder if he'll meet Any of the Harrises again?

The Cherokee village, Tahlequah

2009-08-22T17:08:00.001-07:00

Another day we went to Tahlequah to see the Cherokee Heritage Museum~for a fact it didn't matter where we went, everyone was happy to be together!

It was very hot.

Fortunately, the Harrises suggested ice-cream, and we stopped at Braum's for a refreshing treat.

On the way out of town we noticed a statue for "Where the Red Fern Grows" (my favorite children's book) and had to stop.

Billy, Old Dan and Little Ann posed nicely with the children. The children, on the other hand...

A fun day.

The Gilcrease Museum

2009-08-22T17:02:00.000-07:00

We took the Harrises to a museum we have come to enjoy here in Tulsa. This is a true Western museum that houses many of our favorite sculptures by Frederic Remington. I enjoyed seeing many paintings of all things western, including some that were done in the last decade. Very different than what you find in England!

Here is another work of art~our friend Anna.

They also have an art area for children to create works of art. See what they made!

The Drillers~

2009-08-21T21:10:00.000-07:00

The Tulsa Drillers were one of the events we took the Harris family to. Who can resist a game of American baseball?

The Harrises

2009-08-21T19:23:00.000-07:00

Our good friend Adrian and Fiona Harris, along with their beautiful daughters Anna, Rachel and Kirsten arrived last week to bless us. We were so glad to see them!

They were so glad to see our pool, especially when they read the thermometer!

The aliens have landed . . . .

2009-08-17T13:58:00.000-07:00

memories of summer

2009-08-14T22:45:00.000-07:00

Fun with the James'

Nanna?

2009-08-12T20:34:00.000-07:00

We were SO blessed to have Nanna Johnston and Uncle Marcol and Aunt Bevie visit us last week. We had a wonderful time with each of them, and have many special memories of things we were able to do~

Here is one of my favorite memories~Nanna swimming! She surprised us all and jumped into the pool, fully clothed. She is such a character!

The girls' faces are priceless~Nanna is in the water?!!!!

We have such a cool Grandma~

Had to include a picture of how HAPPY we are to be together~

Picking peaches

2009-08-12T20:26:00.000-07:00

Our new friends, the Brookshire's, invited us along on their annual trek to pick peaches~who could resist an invitation for fresh peaches?

The peaches were excellent, and we were able to sample them before buying. Alas, the orchards were closed for the day, but we bought up a large supply to bring home to each of our families.

Daniel entertained us for the entire car ride with jokes from his Braille joke book. What a funny guy!

Love the sign~

A new home~

2009-08-12T19:58:00.000-07:00

When the Mayflower truck pulled up to our new home last month, we smiled. Here at last, after two years of having all our household goods in storage, we were about to settle in with all our "old" things. What would we discover?

The first thing we discovered was a whole plethora of Tulsa Bible church helpers. Many people came to clean, organize, unpack, and help carry our boxes in. We couldn't believe the help.

Andrew has discovered a good use for our left over boxes~

But it gets better~

Here is a group of people from the church who came and trimmed all our trees and bushes! And to make it more impressive, they did it in over 100 degree temperatures!

We are getting there~

p.s. Here is a picture of TBC~as the moving truck pulled up to deliver a desk to Jim's office. Just a partial picture~Sorry!

Jim's office~

More later~

Good Books

2009-05-08T09:32:00.001-07:00

There are a lot of missionary biographies out there to read to children~here is one of my favorites:

A set of 5 is available for boys or girls~the rest in the series we have include:

Ten Girls who used their Talents
Ten Girls who didn't Give In
Ten Girls who made History
Ten Girls who made a Difference

Published by Christian Focus Publications

Good Reading!

Polar bear plunge!

2009-05-07T08:52:00.000-07:00

Our family has some funny little traditions.

Andrew found the raisin in his oatmeal this morning. Jim asked him what special thing should happen today because he discovered the "prized" raisin. His suggestion?

His daddy take a dip in the lake.

He strongly suggested that the children join him~(my excuse being I was holding a camera)~but there was a bit of resistance~

Way to go brave Daddy!

A lot colder than one would like~perhaps because the lake was still frozen two weeks ago~

The children bravely followed~

Run away, Andrew, Run. It's cold!

And all for a raisin.

Way to go you guys!

verse for today~

2009-05-07T08:48:00.000-07:00

"Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness that God requires." James 1:19-20

Lake Alexander

2009-04-23T17:13:00.000-07:00

Over the last few days we have watched our lake slowly emerge from up under the ice. . .

We waited to see if we could hear the "groaning" that many say happens when the ice begins to move and crack, but alas, nothing.

We were also told that sometimes the ice will sink right before your eyes, and so we all watched carefully to see if we could catch that phenomenon~

We missed it!

We woke to a surprise this morning~the ice was gone!

Did we really spend months walking and ice-skating on this lake? I laugh at how quickly it seems impossible to believe we really did that.

With the soaring temperatures of 75 degrees it has been a marvelous day of playing outside. I even have a few brave children that donned swimsuits and waded in the water. I shook my head and laughed at how earnestly we are ready to embrace Spring!

Papa Johnston

2009-04-22T19:39:00.000-07:00

Dad and Mom visiting us on Camano Island, WA 2002

Arthur P. Johnston
(August 3, 1922 - February 25, 2009)

Arthur P. Johnston, Ph.D., age 86, a resident of Windsor Park Manor in Carol Stream, died Wednesday, February 25, at Windsor's Johnson Health Care Center in Carol Stream. He was born August 3, 1922 in St. Paul, MN.

Art's career was entirely devoted to evangelism while planting churches and founding an association of churches as a missionary in France, President of St. Paul Bible College in Minnesota (currently Crown College), Professor at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in Deerfield, IL, and Founder and President of Tyndale Theological Seminary in the Netherlands. Art was an ordained minister in the Christian and Missionary Alliance. He also served on the board of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, was actively involved in his local churches which included the Wheaton Evangelical Free Church, College Church in Wheaton, Simpson Memorial Church and North Suburban Evangelical Free Church. He was also the President of the Wheaton College Alumni Association.

He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Muriel; his children, Beverly Elna (Marc-Olivier) Demaurex of Lausanne, Switzerland, Stephen Arthur (Joy) Johnston of Paris, France, Carole Noelle (Jeffrey) Seume of Wassenaar, Netherlands, Thomas Paul (Raschelle) Johnston of Liberty, MO and James Andrew (Lisa) Johnston of Corcoran, MN; his grandchildren, Laurelle Bordas, Aveline Bussy and Rosemarie Bourgeois, Emily Andersen, Philip Johnston and Stefanie Wessner, Peter, David, Mark, Christina and Caroline Seume, Katherine Hunter, and Jonathan and Joshua Johnston, and Claire, Julia, Sarah and Andrew Johnston; his great-grandchildren, Iphigenie, Augustin and Maxence; and his sister, Ruth Neighbor.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Rodney.

A memorial visitation will be held on Wednesday, March 4, from 4-9 P.M. at Hultgren Funeral Home, 304 N. Main St., in Wheaton. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, March 5, at 11:00 A.M. at College Church in Wheaton, 332 E. Seminary Ave., in Wheaton. Interment is private at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, IL.

In lieu of flowers memorial gifts may be directed to the Arthur and Muriel Johnston Fund at Tyndale Theological Seminary, PO Box 242, Wheaton, IL 60187.

I have wanted to get this out for all our overseas friends who wanted more information about Dad Johnston's graduation to heaven. I hope this suffices!

We miss you Papa~

He is Risen!

2009-04-12T18:38:00.001-07:00

HE IS RISEN INDEED!

THE POWER OF THE CROSS

2009-04-10T18:54:00.000-07:00

Oh, to see the dawn
Of the darkest day:
Christ on the road to Calvary.
Tried by sinful men,
Torn and beaten, then
Nailed to a cross of wood.

This, the pow'r of the cross:
Christ became sin for us;
Took the blame, bore the wrath—
We stand forgiven at the cross.

Oh, to see the pain
Written on Your face,
Bearing the awesome weight of sin.
Ev'ry bitter thought,
Ev'ry evil deed
Crowning Your bloodstained brow.

Now the daylight flees;
Now the ground beneath
Quakes as its Maker bows His head.
Curtain torn in two,
Dead are raised to life;
"Finished!" the vict'ry cry.

Oh, to see my name
Written in the wounds,
For through Your suffering I am free.
Death is crushed to death;
Life is mine to live,
Won through Your selfless love.

This, the pow'r of the cross:
Son of God—slain for us.
What a love! What a cost!
We stand forgiven at the cross.

Stuart Townend and Keith Getty

Books~

2009-04-09T16:28:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite pastimes is reading to my children. Yesterday I started reading a beautiful book on the history of Oklahoma to them, which they are enjoying. Did you know that Oklahoma has 67 Indian tribes represented in their state?

The other book I started is my all-time favorite childrens' book. I heard it first read out loud to me in fifth grade, and from then on have re-read it many, many times. The book is titled, "Where the Red Fern Grows" and is written by Wilson Rawls. Also set in Oklahoma, this poignant story shows a beautiful and sacrificial relationship between a boy "Billy" and his Redbone Coonhound hunting dogs "Old Dan and Little Ann."

The only problem reading this book is that I am choked up with almost every paragraph! It's hard to read when I am having to clear my throat at regular intervals.

What are your favorite childrens' books?

April Fool's Day

2009-04-01T10:44:00.000-07:00

Jim was wakened this morning with water dripping on his face~by a sponge, squeezed gently by an oldest child

The children woke up early, went outside and tried to scare us through the sliding glass door in our bedroom. Egads.

Julia just made cookies for Papa King. ONE, however, is filled with red chili pepper and tobasco sauce, stuffed discreetly in the middle of a lovely looking chocolate chip cookie. We can't wait to see them today and continue the April fool's tradition.

I THINK the greatest laugh is from the Lord as He showered us with snow all night. It is a beautiful gift~

We parked at the top of the driveway, just so we wouldn't be stuck today as we head down to my folks.

I couldn't resist a walk through the neighborhood today, snapping pictures before the wind blew the snow off the trees.

So intricately beautiful.

Another six inches today~

2009-03-31T18:24:00.000-07:00

Snow flakes.
by Emily Dickinson

Snow flakes.

I counted till they danced so
Their slippers leaped the town,
And then I took a pencil
To note the rebels down.
And then they grew so jolly
I did resign the prig,
And ten of my once stately toes
Are marshalled for a jig!

Interesting breakfast~

2009-03-27T15:55:00.000-07:00

Breakfast took a bit longer this week~until we finished the box of Alphabits.

2009-03-27T14:54:00.000-07:00

"The heavens declare the glory of
God,
and the sky above proclaims
his handiwork.
Day to day pours out speech,
and night to night reveals
knowledge.
There is no speech, nor are there
words,
whose voice is not heard.
Their measuring line goes out
through all the earth,
and their words to the end of
the world.
In them he has set a tent for the
sun,
which comes out like a
bridgegroom leaving his
chamber,
and, like a strong man, runs its
course with joy.
Its rising is from the end of the
heavens,

and its circuit to the end of
them,
and there is nothing hidden
from its heat."

Psalm 19

Is Dr. Seuss visiting?

2009-03-27T14:53:00.000-07:00

Look who's five!

2009-03-27T08:44:00.000-07:00

Five years ago, March 5th, our little Andrew James was born. How the time has flown!

a few days old, held by Papa Johnston

First birthday

Second birthday

Third birthday

fourth birthday

Look who's five!

Andrew is now very aware of what happens on birthday celebrations, look at this enthusiasm!

Thrilled to have another 'Busy People' book~

Andrew's favorite game, "Dutch Blitz" (which he has shortened to 'Dutchy') and which he is always available to play~

Thank you, Lord for Andrew! Happy Birthday Buddy~

Valentine's Day Feast

2009-03-26T18:46:00.000-07:00

The cousins came up for Valentine's Day, and we celebrated with, of course, treats!

We love each one of you crazy kids!

Meet our new friend

2009-03-26T15:19:00.000-07:00

Success!

2009-03-26T15:17:00.000-07:00

A very proud Sarah is happy to announce a missing tooth!

Hawaii

2009-01-28T19:22:00.000-08:00

A few months ago, I was invited to Hawaii to celebrate my good friend Maria's 40th birthday. Anna, Maria's sister wanted to surprise her and fly me (and our good friend Clarinda) out for a week. Hmmm, it was a tough decision~

Being with Maria alone was incentive enough, but it certainly didn't hurt that the time frame for the gala was to span the coldest week of the year here in northern MN~

Check out the car thermometer on the day that I left town (January 15)~

Here we are in Kauai at the airport, and the surprise was wonderful! Maria was blindfolded and was absolutely amazed when she saw Clarinda and I. We all cried~

Whew, 80 degrees at 10 at night~would my skin fall off?

Here are a few of my favorite memories (and pictures) of our time in Kauai:

Spouting Rock:

The state bird: the chicken. At least it appears so. Actually, these little birds were everywhere on the island, running wild.

Another surprise was this new sport of rowing on a surfboard~next time I want to try this!

Goldfish the size of walleye~

"Shaved Ice" which is ice-cream covered with small bits of flavored ice~very good!

We attended a Luau~watching a fantastic show and experiencing "Kalua Pig"~

Ice cold coconut juice~

Great coffee (which I actually partook of, much to my husbands delight)

Beautiful views and scenic stops~

We enjoyed swimming in the ocean here~

Lots of excellent local food!

But most importantly, a very special birthday celebration with Maria and family~

Maria and Anna

Wonderful parents~

A delightful week, one I will not quickly forget! Jim and the children did very well in my absence, but it is also good to be home again. (Maybe we could make this an annual event, though~)

Deer Hunting

2008-11-08T05:28:00.000-08:00

I don't normally take pictures of my neighbors clothes, but I chuckled when I saw this set airing outside~

The Nests~

2008-11-04T20:36:00.000-08:00

Leaves are in abundance up here, and we are making the most of them!

Two "nests" were made today, and a request was made for lunch to be delivered; no problem!

Halloween

2008-11-04T20:22:00.000-08:00

We had fun on Halloween trick-or-treating in our neighborhood. Our new friend and neighbor Marva organized the whole neighborhood to have treats for our children! Here she is~a delight at that.

Duluth

2008-10-29T17:31:00.000-07:00

Duluth. This is one of the places I have never been! I always wanted to "go North" and see this city on the shores of Lake Superior, but never had a chance.

And now, I did.

The children's favorite part of the whole day? Climbing on the rocks~

Another guy enjoyed it too!

Gooseberry Falls~

Leif Erickson memorial park~(someone we just studied!)

We also took the famous "Skyline Drive" and took a few autumn pic's along the way~

A favorite fall memory already~

2008-10-10T17:09:00.000-07:00

Look where we get to live~what a blessing. We took a drive today and enjoyed the magnificent fall that the Lord has given us.

These pictures I snapped on my walk around our neighborhood.

Claire is now Eleven!

2008-10-05T20:24:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Claire!

What do you do when you run out fingers? How do you tell people how old you are without speaking? We had to enlist Sarah's help this year, since Claire is now eleven!

Yesterday was beautiful, and after a yummy breakfast, my folks arrived to help celebrate the big event!

Another 'horse' birthday for Claire~

After roller-blading down the road, we happened to come upon ANOTHER carload of well-wishers, my sister Michelle and her family. What to do? Well, how about swimming!

Claire requested Clam chowder for dinner, and then, a few more gifts!

Thank you Lord for Claire!

Dissertation

2008-10-03T15:05:00.001-07:00

Jim here--

Thanks for all your great comments! It's been so fun to see all the encouraging notes and congratulations.

Getting across the finish line yesterday for the PhD was a huge milestone for us. Thursday, October 2 was the day I finally turned in the final copy of my dissertation signed by my three examiners or readers. Yahoo!!

I thought I'd fill you in on what happened the last few weeks from my perspective.

I spent the two weeks before August 24 (D-Day, Defense Day) cramming for the big day. If this live defense of my dissertation didn't go well, it could have made all the work, transition, and sacrifice of the last year and a half worthless: leaving our friends at First Free, selling our house, moving to England, late nights in the library, etc. So I was feeling a little bit of pressure!

On D-Day, you go into a room with three professors who are sitting across the table from you. One of them is your supervisor--he's friendly and on your side. The other two are there to GRILL you--that's their job for the sake of maintaining academic quality. If you can't answer technical questions and defend yourself adequately, then presumably you are not prepared and don't know your material well enough. It's a good thing, but grueling. Oh, and there are half a dozen doctoral students in the room learning from your experience.

After a few softball questions to get the ball rolling, the second reader takes over. I had absolutely no idea what he would ask and was totally surprised by his lines of questioning. We went back and forth for over an hour. Then the third reader starts to ask his questions, again from a totally new angle.

Actually, the questions they asked were very thought-provoking. I have been thinking about their critiques and questions the last few days and feel like I understand my topic better because of the defense. So that too is part of the educational process.

Well, after the intense questioning, they ask you to leave and you sit outside for 15 minutes while your fate is in the balance. I was pretending to read a brochure, but I don't think anyone walking by was fooled for a second.

When they asked me back in the room, the third reader excused himself and walked out, which I took as a bad sign. But actually, he was going to get a bottle of sparkling grape juice to celebrate (for our British friends, Trinity is dry for the most part).

They did ask me to write another section and modify some things before they would sign off on the dissertation. So I spent the next week doing these revisions, then submitted them to my supervisor for his approval.

I can't tell you how good it felt to see the third signature go on the dissertation! I turned the two signed copies over to the librarian for binding, and walked away a free man after almost ten years of study!!

Several people have asked me what my dissertation is about. So I snapped pictures of some of the first few pages so you could get the gist of it if your interested.

The abstract will give you an overview of the whole thing. The total dissertation was 351 pages.

Enjoy...

Drum roll please. . . . .

2008-09-24T10:58:00.000-07:00

HE PASSED!!!

Praise the Lord!

Only a week or two of revisions, and then Jim will resubmit his dissertation, and be DONE!!!

Thank you so much for praying for us~

Wonderful!

Please pray tomorrow!

2008-09-23T18:37:00.000-07:00

After nine long years, Jim will be defending his dissertation tomorrow at 10:45 a.m.

This 'oral defense' can be quite grueling, as his three Readers have the opportunity to grill him about anything in his 300+ page dissertation. Even his German, Greek and Hebrew will be under scrutiny!

The girls keep saying, "We can't wait to call him 'Dr. Daddy!'" for even they realize the momentous effort put into this endeavor.

SO PRAY!

Homeschooling

2008-09-23T16:52:00.001-07:00

There have been a few surprises in homeschooling. The first is that I actually really enjoy it! I know that sounds crazy, but after the first few weeks of wondering if I would survive, we have all settled into a good routine and we are all learning a lot.

That's another surprise. I am learning! I feel like I am doing school all over again, but with a teacher manual to help me~

BUT, probably the biggest surprise is how much I realized I WASN'T teaching my children before. I realize now that I am IT. I am the teacher, and so I better get my act together and round out their education well. SO, I had a unit last week on "How to take a shower." I know, I know, you may be saying to yourself, 'haven't you already done that?' Well, of course I in general have, but I certainly haven't sat them all down in a circle with washcloths and soap and shampoo and given a tutorial. Here were a few of my points:

1. The shower liner must ALWAYS be inside the shower, and this is how you do it~water is not allowed outside the shower
2. This is how much shampoo you should use, conditioner, soap etc.
3. You should have a towel ready so you don't trail mass amounts of water across the bathroom into your bedroom.
4. You need to rinse your hair. A lot.
5. Hang up your towel when you are done, put your dirty clothes in the laundry and clean up the bathroom~

From there we went on to brushing teeth, washing hands, reminders about public restrooms, and other basic hygiene topics.

Indeed it has been an education all around~next weeks topic~cleaning bathrooms!

Camp Ripley

2008-09-23T14:03:00.000-07:00

We took a field trip on Friday, our first, while living here in Brainerd. We headed to Camp Ripley, an Army base, which also houses a museum complete with outside climbing apparatus.

Inside as well as out~!

We met some new recruits while we were there~

and learned quite a bit~for instance, did you know that MN has had 45 individuals win the Medal of Honor?

A cousin's birthday

2008-09-22T18:38:00.000-07:00

Just to show you that our children aren't always wounded or dirty, I thought I would include a few "clean" photos.

For cousin Caroline's birthday the girls enjoyed dressing up; after using most of my mom's eye shadow and lipstick, of course.

We enjoyed the "Lady of Shallot" pose, and thought you might enjoy it too~

Another day at Nanna and Papa's

2008-09-20T09:13:00.000-07:00

A beautiful garden awaits you upon arrival at my folks place~and I can never resist taking pictures!

I couldn't resist taking a few more pictures of a different species of "flowers" that I encountered one afternoon.

The children decided to make mud pies and mud cakes to sell, and Andrew discovered a green bean (below) he thought we could eat for dinner~

You can just see the corner of my Dad in this picture, the girls are heading his way to give him a little love~

What happened while we were gone?

2008-09-18T17:36:00.000-07:00

My folks watched our children for a few days last month. Who doesn't like to be with their grandparents? But, THIS is what we saw when we returned and drove down the driveway!

I leaped out of the car in a panic, and was completely convinced a great tragedy had struck Claire. (I might have not been so concerned had I looked at my Dad first instead of my daughter~)

Somehow the injuries appeared worse than perhaps they WERE, but then I was really concerned when I beheld a few more people straggling toward the car~

This next one really concerned me the most, for who exactly was watching our children when my Mom was also injured?

If you plan on going on a trip, I would suggest asking other people than my parents to watch your children.

Fall is here~

2008-09-16T11:53:00.000-07:00

Here it is, a sinkful of apples, cut up (me) and thrown into the pot (Andrew.)

What is it about the smell of cooking apples and cinnamon that evokes such pleasure? We are sure to have a good day with a home that is scented like this!

Fall gifts from a new friend~

2008-09-16T05:54:00.000-07:00

beautiful tomatoes!

Imagine my surprise when someone I have never met showed up at our door yesterday; with this!

Ron and Margaret (good friends of our friends Lynn and Linda) took it upon themselves to bless us with some 'extra' veggies and apples from their home.

God provides good stuff, doesn't He?

I am off to make a bit of apple sauce~have a nice Tuesday!

2008-09-15T18:21:00.000-07:00

Psalm 145

A Song of Praise. Of David.

I will extol you, my God and King,
and bless your name forever and ever.
Every day I will bless you
and praise your name forever and ever.
Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised,
and his greatness is unsearchable.

One generation shall commend your works to another,
and shall declare your mighty acts.
On the glorious splendor of your majesty,
and on your wondrous works, I will meditate.

They shall speak of the might of your awesome deeds,
and I will declare your greatness.
They shall pour forth the fame of your abundant goodness
and shall sing aloud of your righteousness.

The LORD is gracious and merciful,
slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.
The LORD is good to all,
and his mercy is over all that he has made.

All your works shall give thanks to you, O LORD,
and all your saints shall bless you!
They shall speak of the glory of your kingdom
and tell of your power,
to make known to the children of man your mighty deeds,
and the glorious splendor of your kingdom.
Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom,
and your dominion endures throughout all generations.

(The LORD is faithful in all his words
and kind in all his works.)
The LORD upholds all who are falling
and raises up all who are bowed down.
The eyes of all look to you,
and you give them their food in due season.
You open your hand;
you satisfy the desire of every living thing.
The LORD is righteous in all his ways
and kind in all his works.
The LORD is near to all who call on him,
to all who call on him in truth.
He fulfills the desire of those who fear him;
he also hears their cry and saves them.
The LORD preserves all who love him,
but all the wicked he will destroy.

My mouth will speak the praise of the LORD,
and let all flesh bless his holy name forever and ever.

2008-09-15T18:09:00.000-07:00

Would you like to see some pictures of where we are staying now? Of course you would!

Today was a lovely day, and Andrew and Sarah took advantage of the warm weather to do a bit of swimming.

Vegetables from the garden~

And look at this sunset!

Family Game Night~

2008-09-15T17:57:00.000-07:00

Last night we played the game of 'Spoons'~a new family favorite!
Fortunately, there was only one injury~

Yes, a new post!

2008-09-14T18:27:00.001-07:00

WHEW!!! That's what I have to say about sitting down at my computer tonight. It works.
What do I mean? Read on~

I know many of you dear friends are asking yourselves, "Are the Johnstons still alive?" And that would be a valid question! We have had a whirlwind the last few weeks, and settling into where we live now is just one more element of readjustment for our family.

After two weeks of intensive homeschooling training (via the "Clarinda James Homeschooling Academy for the Novice") we are settling in nicely at our friends' beautiful second home on Lake Alexander (MN.) Thank you again Todd and Kirsten. We love being here!

I will be able to keep you up-to-date now via internet (thanks again T & K) and am hopeful that our blog will continue with perhaps a new look and name~I am open to suggestions!

First things first~please pray! Jim has his oral defense Sept. 24th, so he is busily studying and preparing for this serious event. Please pray especially for any questions he may be asked in RE to his Hebrew. He is working hard on that as we speak.

We are still actively looking at different churches, but as you may (rightly) assume, the process can be quite unpredictable, so pray for us as we actively move forward and as we patiently wait on the Lord for His timing.

As I write I am in awe of how the Lord has provided for us, so many tangible ways He has loved us and cared for us. The place we are living now is a huge gift to us! We are so thankful. Psalm 145 has become a new favorite for me. Please read it when you have the opportunity and praise the Lord with us.

Here are a few pictures of the last few weeks, enjoy!

the Minnesota State Fair~

My mother-in-law's 80th Birthday party(s)~

Good friends!!

an update~

2008-08-04T18:48:00.000-07:00

Alright, alright, I know that most of my faithful readers have all but given up on this blog, so I knew I needed to write and fill you all in on where and what and how we are doing now.

Many people have asked me how we could have been so faithful in writing almost daily in our blog while we were in England. The answer? It was made easy by my computer. Fast internet access, using an iMac, and a good location for our computer made blogging fun and entertaining.

No longer is it that easy! My folks have dial-up, which is (as you probably know) quite painful to use. Plus, I am using my Dad's laptop, which means I am not downloading our pictures on the same computer, and so I am sadly not able to share some very fun summer memories with you all. Alas~the woes of moving!

Another dilemma, our blog name. "Johnstons at Tyndale" no longer works, so what to do? Do I stop blogging? Do I change the name? Alas, dear friends, I am in a quandry. Any feedback would be appreciated.

Okay, on to what is new with us. We have yet to see the Lord show us what His next step for us will be. There is a church on the west coast that Jim has interviewed with, but we are just in the beginning stages with them, and do not know if this is indeed where the Lord is leading us. Please pray for us. We are growing as we see the Lord stretching us in faith to trust Him when He asks us to wait for His leading. But, as you probably already know, waiting is challenging. I am keeping close to my heart this verse, "They that wait on the Lord will renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not grow weary, they shall walk and not faint."

As never before I see and feel the challenges of 'waiting.' Jim and I would much rather ACT. But God has asked us to wait for Him. I had no idea how hard this would be. We fight the temptation to worry about a number of things; finances, housing, schooling for our children, etc. SO, I am thankful that God renews the strength of His children who 'wait' on Him. And He is doing this. Another verse, "Wait for the Lord, be strong and take heart, and WAIT for the Lord." Isn't surprising how much strength and submission it takes to wait?

Another gift in this has been the gift of faith. Truly, faith is a gift. We have prayed for this, and we have seen the Lord give us faith in Him, not by our own intense effort to believe in Him, but by His good hand. I have found great comfort in Psalm 112 and Psalm 119, and I so want the desires of my heart to be fully focused on knowing Him. I am seeing more and more that when I focus on God, the rest takes care of itself.

Right now we are thankful that we can be here with my mom and dad. The girls spend most of their days riding horses, reading and playing outside. They are very happy and content. What a blessing! Andrew spends most of his days getting dirty and changing his clothes. Another happy child. And Jim and I are so thankful to spend time with my folks, they are such a gift to us both.

Jim is down visiting his mom and dad right now, and finishing up the edits for his dissertation. In about two weeks he should be done with those, and then he will make copies for his three readers. Then he schedules his oral defense for a few weeks after that, and so hopefully will defend some time in September. We are almost there!

The next step is still unclear, but we are trusting the Lord. Please pray for us as we seek His will for our future!

Keep in touch~

We are still here!

2008-07-16T19:49:00.000-07:00

Yes, sorry it has taken so long to post another blog. We have had a busy twelve days since returning to the U.S.! A special thank you to the James family for hosting us through our jetlag~the only time the Johnstons will ever be up BEFORE the James' in the morning, I might add. (Smile.) Flying first to Chicago had it's other benefits as well~for we got to spend time with Nana and Papa Johnston, Auntie Beth and Uncle Bill and the Berg and Ahrenholz families. We are so thankful for each one of you!

Now we are camping out at MY folks house, enjoying every minute of it. The girls are making a 'city' in the field, where Nanna has mowed 'roads.' They are dragging out lumber to build with and are thoroughly happy. Another first, being allowed to ride the horses, by themselves, in the 'soft' field. A real treat for Claire and Julia.

It is good to be back in the U.S.~for one, I love being near family again! I like the roads, (much more room to drive!) customer service, better gas prices (believe it or not) and some actual warm weather. It now feels like summer for us.

All are eager to hear British accents in our children, and there is still a bit there, but they are quickly reverting back to match their peers here. They still use much of the british vocab, however, and I am reminded often that 'so and so did not do that properly!'

Well, friends, keep in touch with US. We miss all of our dear Cambridge friends, and are eager to keep catching up with our Minnesota friends.

I will try to be more faithful to write in the days to come~thanks for your patience!

We're back!

2008-07-04T18:02:00.000-07:00

Yesterday morning we drove for the last time down the gravel lane from our flat, and cried. We had a wonderful departure group of friends who came to say good-bye, and after tears all around, we were struck with how MUCH we will miss this place, Tyndale House, England, Cambridge, etc. What a very special year this has been for us~we have been shaped and molded by our time here, and are amazed with how much we have changed. God has been so faithful!

This afternoon we arrived safe and sound back on good ole American soil. A good plane trip. Uneventful. Julia commented as we get off the plane, "People are speaking differently here~" and we smiled. We are home again. As we walked through customs we were thrilled to see Mom and Dad Johnston, the James' family, and the Ahrenholz family too~replete with welcome home sign and many hugs and welcomes. It was very sweet. Again, more tears.

The children stayed awake until 8:00, a minor miracle, but considering that we are staying at our good friend's (James') house~not too impossible. What a blessing to have good friends! We are rich with these friends here, and now, in England too.

I must go now to sleep, I am trying not to compute the time difference right now, but my dry eyes are insisting on sleep.

Please pray~

2008-07-02T05:51:00.000-07:00

Hello dear ones!

Our paper chain is now down to two links, and we are getting ready to leave! We are close to being packed up, and are cleaning and getting things organized for a trip across the pond. It is amazing how much can be accomplished in just a few short hours, when one is motivated!

Please pray for our van. Please pray that it soon becomes someone else's van! We are leaving tomorrow night to drive to London, and we need to sell it today or tomorrow. We are getting it back from the shop today (it had it's M.O.T. done, a British car test done annually on every vehicle in the U.K.) and are praying for a quick sale!

Two more days and counting.

The girls sang last night at King's College Chapel. It was absolutely wonderful. The Boy's Choir also sang, which was a tremendous treat as well.

Off to keep packing, I just had time for a quick update!

Carole and Christina

2008-07-01T01:11:00.001-07:00

We had a lovely weekend with Carole and Christina, Jim's sister and niece from Holland.

They were so great to drive over and see us before we leave!

We headed over to show them King's College~

Where Andrew did a little weeding for the King's College gardeners~

We walked into Cambridge on the busiest Saturday of the year~Graduation!

We also managed a trip to the Orchard, where we had tea under the apple trees. A lovely weekend with two of our favorite people!

Virginia

2008-06-26T13:11:00.000-07:00

Meet Ginny, (a.k.a. 'Virginia). This little four-year old Tyndale House child has made quite an impression on our family. She is quite a character! I will miss her~

Today, she walked in our flat, came over to the sink and asked me without any preamble, "Could you tell me your secrets?"

I obligingly wrote one down, (and yes I will share it with you, "I love to swim") and off she went in search of other willing participants.

Don't you love this little face?

They're back!

2008-06-26T12:51:00.000-07:00

A very interesting element to Cambridge life is the livestock. Seriously. Today the cows have returned to the parks and the fields around town.

I had to walk off the path today to avoid one ambling bovine, and more importantly, it is crucial to watch where one steppeth~

8 more days.

Afternoon at the Harris home~

2008-06-22T14:45:00.000-07:00

We spent the afternoon and evening today with our friends Adrian, Fiona, Anna, Rachel and Kirsten. We enjoyed a lovely meal (as always Fiona!) and Jim was treated with a very special gift, HAGGIS!!!

Fiona had agreed to try Peanut Butter and Jelly at our home, in return, Jim promised to try some Haggis. What is Haggis? Here's what Wikipedia says:

"Haggis is a traditional Scottish dish.

There are many recipes, most of which have in common the following ingredients: sheep's 'pluck' (heart, liver and lungs), minced with onion, oatmeal, suet, spices and salt, mixed with stock, and traditionally boiled in the animal's stomach for approximately three hours."

Delicious. At least that's what the Harris family thinks. We, well, we TRIED it~

After some lovely desserts, we also played cards (the four adults that is) where the U.K. soundly beat the U.S., much to the United States chagrin. Adrian very kindly sent me the below picture, so we could remember the scores for posterity sake. How kind~

Thank you friends!

Happy Birthday Jim!

2008-06-21T09:11:00.000-07:00

Last night we celebrated Jim's 42nd birthday on a large Tyndale House scale~above is Jim with friends Jason and Pete~

Jason kindly made 24 pizza's for the Tyndale House weekly Friday night BBQ~and they were delicious!

Jim's birthday cake is right behind Julia~notice that two small mice did a little "pre-taste"

Today we celebrated again with breakfast in bed, our family tradition~

And now, Jim and I are off to a restaurant for dinner!

Jim has told me that the best birthday present he could possibly want he now has, a FINISHED dissertation! Hallelujah!

Happy birthday Honey!

Legoland!

2008-06-20T07:43:00.001-07:00

Yesterday we surprised our children again with another treat~LEGOLAND!

We of course didn't tell them until after they had gotten their uniforms on, eaten breakfast, etc. Jim and I love to catch our children unaware!

We set off immediately, for a good hour and half drive. Unfortunately Andrew got carsick and gave up his breakfast about 1/2 way there. What were we to do? Fortunately we found a T.K. Maxx, (England's version of T.J. Maxx) and bought a pair of pants (trousers).

That, plus a lot of traffic for Ascot (a huge horse race, where everyone dresses up to go and all the women wear hats~see below~

meant that it was quite a drive~~but we made it! Here are a few of our favorite pic's of the day~

New friends~

and foes~

LOTS of Legos~

Favorite rides~

Learning how to drive~

A great memory, and a great day especially for Jim because he is now done! He just finished his bibliography today, hooray!

Tomorrow is his birthday, and he couldn't wish for a better gift than to be finished, now we just wait to hear back from his advisor on what he might need to change. Pray for this please~

Also, please pray that we can sell our van. Thank you!

15 more days!

2008-06-19T13:44:00.001-07:00

One more link off the paper chain...

London, as a family~

2008-06-17T05:25:00.000-07:00

After discovering that Sarah had found the largest honey-nut cornflake EVER made, we proceeded to surprise our children at breakfast yesterday morning.

Jim to Lisa, "Have you called the school?"

Lisa to Jim, "No, I wrote a letter, and talked with their teachers~"

Lisa, "And so, children, change your clothes, because you are not going to school today."

Children, "Where are we going?"

Lisa, "We are going to London!"

Children, "Are you kidding?" "No?" screams all around, a hurriedly finished breakfast and rapidly changed clothes, and we were off!

We drove down to the first tube stop, Epping and took the tube into London~

Got off at the Tower of London~

and then took a short cruise down to Westminster Abbey~

Tower Bridge

the London Eye~

Big Ben and Parliament~

In front of Westminster Abbey

On to Kensingston Garden, for a picnic lunch at the Princess Diana Memorial Children's playground.

The whole playground theme is Peter Pan and Neverland~

Next was the Science Museum~

A family portrait, aren't we lovely?

Then, off to the Natural History Museum,

You may wonder why we took this picture, but this is my Dad, "King Vulture" or better known as the stealer of all his children's and grandchildren's toast.

Giant Sloth~

Victoria and Albert Museum, where the only thing we did was run into to look at their beautiful chandelier, and the children played outside on the railing. Playing on the railing was Sarah's highlight of the whole trip.

Piccadilly Circus~

Then, off to Pizza Hut, in honor of our friends, the Sellers.

A tube ride home, a car ride home, and we all fell into bed happy. A great day!

Happy Father's Day!

2008-06-15T23:36:00.000-07:00

Happy Father's Day to ALL the Father's we know!

May Bumps

2008-06-13T07:28:00.000-07:00

Last night we headed over to the Cam River to watch the 'May Bumps' a regatta race between all the colleges of Cambridge University. The May Bumps are similar to the May Ball in that both are University events that take place in June. (I don't know why~ it might be because it comes at the end of May Term, or it might be to mislead people like you and me, or maybe a little of both...)

We needed a map to get there, and Andrew drew one for us, see below. He is pointing to the river in his map~

We were able to park right in a field on the Cam River (all right, that's our van, not the other car~)

This swan wasn't very happy to see us and he was quite territorial. Who knew swans were so mean?? We all gladly gave him his space~

We saw several different races, men and women, and the whole concept of the "Bumps" are fascinating. Basically, each crew (or boat) is separated at the start by a distance of about 1½ boat lengths and the point is to bump the boat in front while not getting bumped from behind!

Here are some crews heading downriver toward the start~

Here's how Wikipedia describes the Bumps:

Once the "go" signal is fired, a crew must attempt to catch up with the crew ahead of it and bump (physically touch or overtake it) before the crew behind does the same to them. A crew which bumps or is bumped must pull to the side of the river to allow other crews to continue racing. A crew which neither bumps the crew ahead nor is bumped by the crew behind before crossing the finishing post is said to have rowed over.
A crew which bumps then swaps places with the crew that it bumped in the following day's racing. A crew which rows over stays in the same position in the following day's racing. If a crew finishes at the top of a division, apart from the first division, then it may row at the bottom of the next division to try and get into that division. This crew is called the sandwich boat. The process is repeated over four days, allowing crews to move up or down in the overall order of boats. The finish order of one year's May Bumps are then used as the starting order of the following year's races.

The ultimate aim is to try and finish Head of the River (also said as gaining the Headship), i.e. 1st position in division 1. This is only realistically possible for crews starting in the top 5 places. For other crews, the aim is to rise at least 4 places to try and set themselves up for an opportunity to take the Headship in future years."

OK, so why were we there, you ask? Beside enjoying the races, our friend Hunter rows for Selwyn College so we went to cheer him on

Here is Hunter (waving) as they warm up, going downriver toward their starting place~

Hunter & Laura's two boys were there to see their Daddy race!

Fifteen minutes later we heard a cannon boom in the distance and we knew the race was on!!

Here they come up the river... it looks like they're close to the boat in front of them!

Sure enough, they were right on the heels of Gonville Caius College (btw., Caius is pronounced "keys").

They're closing in!!

We were all yelling and shouting from the shore! Even the normally reserved Brits were cheering and screaming.

They did it! The coxswain's hand goes up to acknowledge the "bump."

And now the victors from Selwyn start off slowly home.

Notice the greenery in their hair. When you pull over after a "bump" the tradition is for the winning boat to decorate themselves and their boat with branches from the shrubs along the shore (a bit like laurel wreaths.)

A fun evening at the May Bumps!

Salad

2008-06-12T12:44:00.000-07:00

Fresh from the Tyndale House garden comes this lovely lettuce. I continue to be amazed at all the women who live here, so diversely gifted and ready to serve. This fresh spinach and lettuce came from our friend Stephanie, who is growing it in abundance. Thanks Stephanie! It was delicious~

Update~

2008-06-11T12:08:00.000-07:00

Three weeks from Friday we leave to return to America. Ironically we are returning to the States on July 4th; which is simply a coincidence! Our British friends, however, find this amusing and have given us a hard time about "fleeing back to the Colonies" or some such rot. In actuality, we will really miss England~

We will fly into Chicago and stay with friends for a few days, and our girls are thrilled that they will be back in time for a night of fireworks~I will give you an update on how long they will be able to stay awake for them~*smile*

Jim is back at the library for another late night of writing. He is now done with editing all his chapters, has finished his introduction, and is working hard to finish his conclusion by this evening. Once this is done he will send the whole kit and kaboodle into his advisor, and while waiting for his final response, will finish the bibliography.

Can it be? Could we really almost be done? After 9+ years of working on a doctorate, we see the end in sight, and both Jim and I feel like we are finishing a marathon. It isn't quite the euphoric high that I expected, instead, we feel like with the Lord's help we will just make it.

I can tell that God has carried us securely through this process. The unique stresses and challenges of this year have stretched us often to the limits of what we thought we could do, and then He has shown us more of Himself, and we have been sustained. We praise Him~He is GOOD.

And now, I look at our calendar where events are written in this month for England and next month for America, and I chuckle to myself to see one leg planted here, and one leg running across the Atlantic. The inevitable merging of two lives again~

The girls and I packed away most of their clothes today, much to their delight. Comments like: "Just lay out two different dresses for Sundays" "Remember it will be warmer in America" "Don't forget a sweater for the plane~" and "Who can we give this too?" resounded through their little room today, and made the reality of leaving just a little stronger for all of us.

When you think of us, please pray for this transition for all of us. We covet your prayers~

Walking buddies

2008-06-11T05:38:00.000-07:00

The nights are very short here now~in fact it is close to 10 before darkness arrives, and the sun comes back up at 5:30 (or earlier, I just haven't noticed!) I can tell our children are tired, because it is SO hard to fall asleep while it is still so light out.

Julia and I took a walk last night to take some pictures around the colleges before her bedtime. The students are out and about celebrating as exams are now wrapping up, and you can tell the relief in their faces!

Newnham College

Right now the flowers are beautiful~Here are a few pictures of Clare College, I personally think they have the most beautiful gardens!

Here's one Julia took of the Cam River. The students are out in full force on the river, you can catch a peek if you look to the far right of this picture.

Next, Selwyn College~

Almost home, here is a picture of our neighbor's roses~

A lovely evening~

for Anne

2008-06-10T07:52:00.000-07:00

Psalm 84

How lovely is your dwelling place,
O LORD of hosts!
My soul longs, yes, faints
for the courts of the LORD;
my heart and flesh sing for joy
to the living God.

Even the sparrow finds a home,
and the swallow a nest for herself,
where she may lay her young,
at your altars, O LORD of hosts,
my King and my God.
Blessed are those who dwell in your house,
ever singing your praise!
Selah

Blessed are those whose strength is in you,
in whose heart are the highways to Zion.
As they go through the Valley of Baca
they make it a place of springs;
the early rain also covers it with pools.
They go from strength to strength;
each one appears before God in Zion.

O LORD God of hosts, hear my prayer;
give ear, O God of Jacob!
Selah

Behold our shield, O God;
look on the face of your anointed!

For a day in your courts is better
than a thousand elsewhere.
I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God
than dwell in the tents of wickedness.
For the LORD God is a sun and shield;
the LORD bestows favor and honor.
No good thing does he withhold
from those who walk uprightly.
O LORD of hosts,
blessed is the one who trusts in you!

Summer is here~

2008-06-09T12:46:00.000-07:00

The roses are in full bloom all over Cambridge now~in fact I just saw a two story house with a rose bush growing all the way up to the peak of the roof! I will try and take a picture next time I go by it~

Here are a few of the Tyndale House roses bushes; they always make me smile~

A few other little "roses" enjoyed the hot weather and a new pool yesterday~

Is it summer for you yet?

Tea anyone?

2008-06-07T08:31:00.001-07:00

We had fun last night with our friends the Harris's playing cards. We had a bit of tea~quickly becoming a favorite beverage!

Soggy laundry

2008-06-07T08:25:00.001-07:00

It was raining for much of the week, and alas, much of our laundry was caught out in it! Here are a few pictures of Claire wringing out the laundry before bringing it back inside to spin again in the washing machine. Bless her heart~

I think our girls are more excited than me that we might have access to a dryer soon! (We're coming home Mom!)

Learning to play Cricket!

2008-06-05T12:53:00.000-07:00

Last Friday we met our friends the Sewall's again for a fun afternoon and evening~

We headed to Wimpole Hall to jump off the logs (always a priority when we are here)

But the highlight for us all was learning to play Cricket! It was a lot of fun!

We headed home to make the Tyndale House Friday night Barbeque~

At the end of the night, several children said, "This was the best day of my whole life!"

Success!

Chestnut trees in bloom~

2008-06-03T14:48:00.001-07:00

Friends

2008-06-03T06:06:00.001-07:00

Last week was a sad week for our family. Two of our dearest family friends left to return to the United States. The Seller family with their five children left on Tuesday (Ah, we miss you all!) and our children cried all the way home from dropping them off at the bus station. (They only had 28 suitcases to take home with them!)

Greg and Dorinda Beale left on Saturday, and we miss them very much as well. Because we were next door neighbors here at Tyndale House, we saw each other daily, and Dorinda and I also walked together regularly. Greg and Dorinda would join us as we walked to church on Sundays, and I was able to take pictures of our last Sunday together here:

Here is Greg kindly carrying one of the children's scooters:

Dorinda posing for me in front of the Wisteria~

Another view through the hedge of Newnham College~

We always see beautiful gardens~

Ah, we miss you Dr. and Mrs. Beale!

Trip to Lammas Land~

2008-06-03T05:56:00.000-07:00

Summer is upon us and I can see the relaxing effect it had on our family last week. Since the children had the week off (mid-term break) we headed out and about to enjoy the sun.

On our way to the park~this is the short-cut way through our neighborhood to "Lammas Land" a wonderful park near us~

You might notice that Andrew has learned to ride a two-wheeler (way to go Andrew!)

Being pushed on their favorite 'swing'

A happy day, especially because it ended with ice cream cones at the store!

Hello again!

2008-06-01T14:40:00.000-07:00

We are sorry for the delay in posting any blogs! My computer has been down now for over a week, and I am hopeful that tomorrow our internet connection will be up and running again (I am borrowing another computer to quickly type this.)

Stay tuned, because there are a number of things I want to post when I have the opportunity. Until tomorrow (hopefully)~

Six more weeks~

2008-05-22T01:39:00.000-07:00

I woke up this morning with the realization that six weeks from tomorrow we fly back to America.

How fast the time has gone!

Yesterday I packed a large duffel bag with the warm clothes we aren't wearing now. I informed the children's school today of when their last day would be. I began an inventory on food stuff we need to 'eat up' before we go. And Jim is packing to fly for another interview in the States this weekend. We are leaving!

My friends are asking how I am doing with it all, and I would have to say, "well." When I think back to all the ways we miraculously saw God bring us here, provide for our needs and grow us richly, I can't help but be thankful we stepped out in faith and came. What a blessing it has been to be here for this time~we are all so much richer for this experience~

And the latest good news? Jim just finished his last research chapter! He just has one more chapter to condense (he wrote a bit too much for his liking) and should be hopefully done with that this week. Then, he just needs to write the intro, conclusion, and finish his bibliography. He is on track to finish by the time we leave.

He told me how fun it is to begin to return all his books back to their shelves! I am so proud of how steadfastly he has persevered with this immense project. Even I am still trying to get my mind around how challenging it is to write a dissertation, and how much work it is to finish well.

Please continue to pray for us as we end here; for the dissertation, for our good-byes to dear friends, and for our next transition.

We couldn't have done this without the encouragement, support and prayers of our friends and family. So often, we sit and marvel at the support we have received from so many to come and do this. Thank you dear ones. We are eager to see many of you again soon.

A princess party!

2008-05-19T12:35:00.001-07:00

A party was in order yesterday. Sarah turned 6 and 1/2 and her friend Lena turned 6 and 3/4 on the same day~ (We don't need excuses to celebrate!)

Julia and her friend Rachel (along with a bit of help from Claire) planned a wonderful party for the little girls who live here at Tyndale House.

They planned 5 games, including "Princess, Princess, Queen" (except when they came to Andrew, it was "Prince.")

They had fun baking, and even spent their own money at the store for other goodies too~

After lots of treats, games, and watching "Cinderella" we sent home some very happy little girls~

Well done, girls!

Oreos in England!

2008-05-18T05:48:00.000-07:00

'Color of Wet Mud!' Oreos Invade England

Dipping Biscuits in Tea is Fine -- but Oreos in Milk? Some Brits Bristle

By BRENDAN O'NEILL
The Christian Science Monitor
May 17, 2008

LONDON -- "It's very dark. It's almost black." May Woodward, an office worker in central London, is holding an Oreo cookie in her hands. It's the first time she has ever seen one "in the flesh as opposed to on an American TV show," and she's not sure she likes what she sees. "It's the color of wet mud!" she complains. "And the bit ... looks like toothpaste rather than cream."

(Landov/AP Photo)

She twists and turns the cookie in her fingers, staring at it from every angle with a screwed-up look on her face that seems to say, "Gross!" not "Mmm, cookie time." You could be forgiven for thinking she's handling some dangerous alien element, Cookie Kryptonite, say, rather than one of the best-known biscuits in the Western hemisphere.

She bites, chews, raises an eyebrow, chews some more.

"OK, I get it," she says, finally. "I can see the attraction. It's very sweet." Suddenly she seems to change her mind. "Actually it's too sweet ... it's becoming mushy," she says, alarmed as tentative chewing becomes frantic munching to wolf the cookie down.

I couldn't resist sharing this article with my U.S. friends. Although we were thrilled to see Oreos come into our local grocery store, it seems that not everyone here shares our enthusiasm!

Psalm 86:8-13

2008-05-16T01:56:00.000-07:00

There is none like you among the gods, O Lord,
nor are there any works like yours.

All the nations you have made shall come
and worship before you, O Lord,
and shall glorify your name.

For you are great and do wondrous things;
you alone are God.

Teach me your way, O LORD,
that I may walk in your truth;
unite my heart to fear your name.

I give thanks to you, O Lord my God, with my whole heart,
and I will glorify your name forever.

For great is your steadfast love toward me;
you have delivered my soul from the depths of Sheol.

The drive home~

2008-05-15T06:31:00.000-07:00

I normally wouldn't do a blog about our drive home, but something interesting happened that sufficiently warrants an entry.

Mary and I were stuck in a traffic jam (caused by a "horse trials" competition) on the way through the Peak District. No problem, we decided to take another road.

We were a bit concerned when we encountered this road, clearly shown on our map~

Since it didn't look like much of a road, we of course checked out the map again~

Yep, the road is there alright~on we go~

I thought the grass was beginning to get a bit high~

Wouldn't it be funny if this road just ended?

Ha-Ha~

We told the cows to stop laughing at us.

After much concerted prayer, I then proceeded to back all the way back down the lane (quite a ways) with Mary walking beside me. We opened a cow gate and tried to turn around, but couldn't quite do that. SO, we kept backing down the "road."

FINALLY we were at the end of the lane! When I tried to turn the car around I got stuck, one wheel spinning in the grass, hovering on a little precipice.

Mary walked into town and found two guys to help get us out. EGADS.

We are now home safe and sound! Praise the Lord.

Pride and Prejudice~the house!

2008-05-15T05:52:00.000-07:00

*JANE AUSTEN*

DARCY. Pemberley. Derbyshire. I don't know about you, but these names immediately conjure up for me Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, a cult classic.

On the way home from the Lake District we headed toward the Peak District, and Lyme Park, the beautiful mansion used in the A & E version of Pride and Prejudice (Darcy's home.)

The driveway into the house was well over a mile long, sufficiently impressive with vast sweeping fields and trees.

"The Cage" a hunting lodge on the property
Also used for locking poachers up when they were caught on the estate!

The house is of course very grand~

But I laughed at the huge car park behind the home. It was a lovely day to visit and the grounds of "Pemberley" were overflowing with tourists!

We did tour the house (sorry, no photography allowed) which was beautiful. The movie crew only used the outside of this home for filming, the inside was filmed mostly at Chatsworth, another National Trust property.

Beautiful manicured gardens~

Could this be the pond that Darcy dove into before that fateful meeting with Elizabeth?

We hiked up to the "lantern"

A lovely afternoon~

Is it already time to head home?

Beatrix Potter

2008-05-14T03:51:00.000-07:00

Beaumont B&B

We headed northwest next up into the Lake District for our next stop. Spending two nights in Windemere, our express purpose here was to see Hill Top, Beatrix Potter's farm, and to hike.

We hiked first up to Orrest View, a beautiful hike that allowed us to finally overlook Lake Windemere and much of the surrounding areas~

Lake Windemere~

After taking a ferry across the lake, we hiked up to Hill Top~

along with a fair share of hills, we also disturbed our fair share of sheep~

We passed many beautiful stone cottages, available to rent on a weekly basis~

When we arrived in the little town of Sawrey, we knew we were close to Hill Top, because we met "Mr. McGregor" at a local pub~

Picture of Hill Top~unfortunately the pictures don't do this place justice. The gardens were lovely and the house was very interesting~

a few Beatrix Potter tidbits~(given to us by the National Trust employees of the farm)

1. Beatrix became old and crotchety (like her mum, according to our guide) as she aged.

2. Few people in town knew who she was, because when she married William Heelis, she obviously changed her name and didn't make a big deal of her writing~

3. She only invited Americans in for tea (in general) because so many of her British fans came to see her she wouldn't have had time for them all, besides the Americans tended to be educators, and she wanted to expand her reading audience.

Beatrix with her brother

4. The people in town are all very much indebted to Beatrix, she did much to save many, many farms for the Lake District, keeping farmers employed. (She ended up buying 4,000 acres en total.)

I would love to come back here, there was so much to see, and so many wonderful hikes that we weren't able to do! I encourage you, if you are ever in this area, to take full advantage of this beautiful place.

It rains, on average, 250 days a year in the Lake District, and we had a beautiful weekend! We were so thankful~

The literary tour~

2008-05-12T13:37:00.000-07:00

I don't want to overwhelm you, dear friends, with our trip to the Lake District, (because if the truth be known we took over 600 pictures!) so I thought it would be helpful to divide our trip into literary sections. To begin:

*THE BRONTES*

Sisters Anne, Emily and Charlotte Bronte (there still remains a shadow of their brother Branwell, which appeared after he painted himself out. He didn't know that this picture would hang in the National Gallery, or else he might of worked a bit harder on cleaning this up!).

the parsonage, home to the Bronte family

Charlotte's Jane Eyre, Emily's Wuthering Heights and Anne's Agnes Grey are of course classic novels that have stood the test of time. We wanted to see where this famous family lived, and so headed to the moors of Haworth to see their family home (and museum). See above~

We happened upon a wedding at the Bronte church~

Mary was especially eager to walk in the moors and see the home that inspired "Wuthering Heights."

The trail up into the moors took us through some picturesque places~

Green and beautiful on one side, and dry and rough on the other~

We hiked up in the moors for a bit, and we discovered why there are an abundance of stone fences, because that is what is predominantly underfoot! I was amazed at the people who ran and mountain biked across this terrain, I must say, they were in great shape. You would have to be, because this is hard going.

Down near the Bronte bridge and waterfall~notice the rocks everywhere!

After Shepherds Pie and a lamb and mint burger, we headed off to Windemere in the Lake District~

We're off!

2008-05-12T12:47:00.000-07:00

Mary and I returned safely from our trip up to the Lake District~here are a few pictures to commemorate our weekend~

We are packed and ready to go! Getting our rental car~

Some woeful faces bid us good-bye~between the two of us, we left nine children!

On our drive North we saw a sign for Sherwood Forest, home to Robin Hood. We had to stop!

Here is Robin Hood fighting Little John on the bridge~

and a few more photos of our walk~

We took the walk to "the old oak tree" and found out that, indeed it was. Old, that is. 800 years to be exact. Obviously many old things need a little support!

See you Monday!

2008-05-08T14:10:00.000-07:00

My friend Mary and I are off to the Lake District for a (can you believe it?) GIRLS WEEKEND!!!

We are planning on seeing the area the Bronte sisters lived in~and then are heading up to the Beatrix Potter area in Windemere and Hawkshead. I look forward to showing some pictures on the blog when I return. Pray for my husband~Mr. Mom for the weekend.

The Patience of Faith

2008-05-08T02:40:00.000-07:00

Patience is more than endurance. A saint's life is in the hands of God like a bow and arrow in the hands of an archer. God is aiming at something the saint cannot see, and He stretches and strains, and every now and again the saint says--"I cannot stand any more."

God does not heed. He goes on stretching till His purpose is in sight, then He lets fly. Trust yourself in God's hands. For what have you need of patience just now? Maintain your relationship with Jesus Christ by the patience of faith. "Though He slays me, yet will I wait for Him."

Faith is not a pathetic sentiment, but robust vigorous confidence built on the fact that God is Holy love.

Oswald Chambers, My Utmost For His Highest, May 8

Robots and Wisteria

2008-05-07T13:35:00.000-07:00

The children and I took a walk after school to get a treat. It was such a beautiful day here in Cambridge we had to be outside! We ended up at the "Buttery" which is a university snack shop not too far from our flat.

On the way, we needed to take a few pictures. These pictures are all in Selwyn College:

Wisteria

Back at our place, here is Andrew demonstrating how his robot "Husky" works (he made Husky today at his playgroup.)

Cinco de Mayo~

2008-05-06T12:18:00.001-07:00

About a week ago I lamented to some friends

how much I missed Mexican food.

Along with the quintessential British pub,
there are tons of Indian, Chinese, Thai and Italian establishments around town,
but alas, the enchiladas and burritos are a bit scarce.

Fortunately, these same friends (one grew up on "the border" in Texas)
invited us over to celebrate "Cinco de Mayo."
I was thrilled!
Finally, great salsa, enchiladas,
chimichangas, chips, guacamole, etc.
(And ALL homemade!)

In the course of the evening we asked ourselves, "What is Cinco de Mayo?" Doesn't it have to do with independence from France, or some such thing? Since we couldn't remember exactly, I am very thankful to my friend Mary who was able to enlighten me, see below:

There are many stories related to the sinking of the Titanic. Some have just come to light due to the success of the recent movie.
For example, most people don't know that back in 1912, Hellman's mayonnaise was manufactured in England. The "Titanic" was carrying 12,000 jars of the condiment scheduled for delivery in Vera Cruz, Mexico, which was to be the next port of call for the great ship after New York City.
The Mexican people were eagerly awaiting delivery and were disconsolate at the loss. So much so that they declared a national day of mourning which they still observe today. It is known, of course, as Sinko de Mayo.

Thank you Mary~

The Master has come

2008-05-05T13:11:00.000-07:00

The Master has come, and He calls us to follow
The track of the footprints He leaves on our way;
Far over the mountain and through the deep hollow,
The path leads us on to the mansions of day:
The Master has called us, the children who fear Him,
Who march ’neath Christ’s banner, His own little band;
We love Him and seek Him, we long to be near Him,
And rest in the light of His beautiful land.

The Master has called us; the road may be dreary
And dangers and sorrows are strewn on the track;
But God’s Holy Spirit shall comfort the weary;
We follow the Savior and cannot turn back;
The Master has called us, though doubt and temptation
May compass our journey, we cheerfully sing:
“Press onward, look upward,” through much tribulation;
The children of Zion must follow the King.

The Master has called us, in life’s early morning,
With spirits as fresh as the dew on the sod:
We turn from the world, with its smiles and its scorning,
To cast in our lot with the people of God:
The Master has called us, His sons and His daughters,
We plead for His blessing and trust in His love;
And through the green pastures, beside the still waters,
He’ll lead us at last to His kingdom above.

This is one of our favorite hymns, Jim printed this out for our children to learn this week

Tea in the orchard

2008-05-05T12:53:00.000-07:00

We walked into Grantchester to the orchard today for tea. What a beautiful day it was! We had a collection of their large scones, replete with jam and Devonshire cream~

My friend Fiona and her girls came with us, and in doing so, 'made the day.' The apple trees are now in full bloom, and absolutely lovely.

Collections of "Meadow Sweet" (a.k.a. Cow Parsley) were collected on the way home~

To create beautiful maidens~(like our friend Rachel)

Julia's spelling test

2008-05-02T02:12:00.001-07:00

I got a kick out of one of Julia's spelling tests. Her teacher told her that she might want to write a "bit bigger."

John Piper on Parenting~

2008-04-30T08:27:00.000-07:00

The most fundamental task of a mother and father is to show God to the children. Children know their parents before they know God. This is a huge responsibility and should cause every parent to be desperate for God-like transformation. The children will have years of exposure to what the universe is like before they know there is a universe. They will experience the kind of authority there is in the universe and the kind of justice there is in the universe and the kind of love there is in the universe before they meet the God of authority and justice and love who created and rules of the universe. Children are absorbing from dad his strength and leadership and protection and justice and love; and they are absorbing from mother her care and nurture and warmth and intimacy and justice and love—and, of course, all these overlap.

And all this is happening before the child knows anything about God, but it is profoundly all about God. Will the child be able to recognize God for who he really is in his authority and love and justice because mom and dad have together shown the child what God is like. The chief task of parenting is to know God for who he is in his many attributes, and then to live in such a way with our children that we help them see and know this multi-faceted God. And, of course, that will involve directing them always to the infallible portrait of God in the Bible.

Thank you friend!

2008-04-29T09:06:00.001-07:00

Little Lamb, who made thee?
Dost thou know who made thee?
Gave thee life, and bid thee feed,
By the stream and o'er the mead;
Gave thee clothing of delight,
Softest clothing, woolly, bright;
Gave thee such a tender voice,
Making all the vales rejoice?
Little Lamb, who made thee?
Dost thou know who made thee?

Little Lamb, I'll tell thee,
Little Lamb, I'll tell thee.
He is called by thy name,
For He calls Himself a Lamb.
He is meek, and He is mild;
He became a little child.
I a child, and thou a lamb,
We are called by His name.
Little Lamb, God bless thee!
Little Lamb, God bless thee!

~William Blake

Lambing season in the UK

2008-04-28T13:26:00.001-07:00

I find it amazing how many little lambs dot the countryside here in England~

Choose your favorite picture!

Weekend with the Bauers

2008-04-27T13:22:00.000-07:00

Our good friends the Bauers came this weekend to see us! We had a wonderful time with them~what a blessing to spend time with old friends~

We went to Wimpole Hall where the three favorite things to do were:

Make daisy chains~

See the animals~(Andrew asked me if bunnies had noses, so we had to check one out to see~)

And ride the Zip line~

Our children thoroughly enjoyed being with Audrey and Dustin~

They were very calm the whole time they were together~

We enjoyed Caroline's sister Janet, too, who isn't in these pictures!

We are so glad you came to see us dear friends~you are already missed!

Wellies in the rain~

2008-04-24T13:15:00.000-07:00

The rain makes still pools on the sidewalk
The rain makes running pools in the gutter
The rain plays a little sleep song on our roof at night
And I love the rain.

~Langston Hughes

Fields of Rapeseed

2008-04-23T13:08:00.001-07:00

I have been transfixed by these beautiful yellow fields around Cambridge. This picture is from Bourne, Cambridgeshire.

Waiting~

2008-04-22T11:00:00.000-07:00

"Wait for the Lord;
be strong, and let your heart
take courage;
wait for the Lord!"
Psalm 27:14

"The heart of a man plans his way,
but the Lord establishes his steps."
Proverbs 16:9

"Fear not, for I am with you;
be not dismayed, for I am your God;
I will strengthen you, I will help you,
I will uphold you with my
righteous right hand."
Isaiah 41:10

We are waiting to see what God has for us next. I would be the first to say that waiting is not easy. My natural inclination is to want to know right away how our future will lay itself out. I would love to know what place, job, church, house and schools we will be heading into next. But, God is waiting to tell us. Since I know that His timing is always perfect I am reminding myself daily of these verses, and the truth that He has exquisitely laid out the timing for WHEN to tell me of His future plans for us.

Our children consistently are saying things like "When Jesus tells us where we are to go next, could we get a: (choose one) "trampoline? Horse? Dog? My own bedroom?" And our answer is often to say, "Pray about it, if God wants us to have a horse, then He would provide a barn." I must admit I am not praying for a barn, but then again, I don't doubt that God would give us one on behalf of our girls and their prayers! I appreciate my children and their faith. It is sweetly confident and utterly dependent on Jesus. My more "mature" faith requires the discipline of "thinking rightly" and being in the Word daily for me to move forward with a similar confidence.

A last verse~

"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for wholeness and not for evil. to give you a future and a hope."
Jeremiah 29:11

We look forward to sharing with you, when He tells us, what His plans for us are!

Sunday afternoon with friends

2008-04-20T12:29:00.000-07:00

As you may quickly have discovered in reading our blog, we have spent many happy Sunday afternoons exploring Cambridge. We often return to Anglesey Abbey, a favorite spot, with friends.

There is something about the rolling lawns of the place (it used to be a medieval fish farm!) that draws all children to run~

Ready~

Set~

Go!

While my friends Kathryn and Laura and I snuck away to smell the hyacinth garden~

Our children found much more pleasure in playing "King of the Hill" on the vast heaps of last fall's foliage~

Always muddy and tired after an afternoon like this;

but always smiling.