molding Godly hearts x 3

Christmas Card 
&Letter 

Honestly, Christmas Cards almost did not happen this year. Not because we have stopped loving you or did not want to share what God has been doing in our life, but because Christmas Cards take time! (especially if you have attention issues and obsessive compulsive tendencies!) This year we have really tried to put a high priority on how we spend our time at home.   Little time at home is hard for this family of five who just loves being at home.  Troy and I love being at home which is no surprise based on our constant “projects”. So do each of our children, almost always choosing to have their friends in our home rather than going elsewhere, which is absolutely answered prayer. This has always been our heart’s desire and motivation in making our home!

Of course, we love to do a lot of things that we really just can’t do at home. Mitchell (8) would have a hard time playing basketball and soccer at home. Georgia lawns are definitely not made for playing level field/court sports! Makenzie (14) cannot cheer and tumble at home – our ceilings aren’t high enough, not to mention she would so miss the competition she thrives on.  Marshall (16) absolutely cannot participate in Marching Band Shows and Competitions or even Concert Band at home. He might be able to have Academic Bowl meets at home, but sadly, I am not sure anyone else would ever answer a question.  Troy can’t hike at home, unless he was to wear his backpack to take out the trash!  I can do a lot at home, but eventually I would need more supplies! Of course, Troy and I couldn’t watch our children doing what they love if we stayed home. All of the time spent away from home just makes things like eating together, hanging out with friends, and staying in touch with those we love a top priority when we are home!

Much of our time spent away from home this year was fabulous. We were blessed with a trip to Ft. Myers Beach (thanks Uncle Mike!), a trip to Panama City Beach (thanks Uncle Jim & Aunt Tammy!), two trips to Illinois, a gold panning trip for Troy (and no, he didn’t get to quit his day job!) and a weekend in Savannah. Yet, every trip, regardless of how awesome it was, always ended the same –all of us ready to be home.

Exactly as I know Heaven will be, as incredible as the journey is here on earth—

there is nothing like Home.

Praising Jesus for leaving His home in Heaven for us,

Troy Kendra Marshall Makenzie & Mitchell

The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. John 1:14