Lots 'o Celebrations !!!

This past weekend, we were able to go out on a date to celebrate Kirstin's birthday. Another missionary couple offered to take our kids for the evening as their birthday gift...................it was a great gift --- for all 4 of us !!! The kids had a great time going to a new pool with Aunt Beverly and Uncle Ted................and they fed them hot dogs and macaroni and cheese --- it doesn't get any better !!!! Meanwhile, Albert took Kirstin to a great Italian food restaurant, then down to the Wisla River for a romantic boat ride ! It was so relaxing..............and romantic!!!! (did I mention that already?) Plus, it was fun just to be out after dark...................a novelty for parents of young kids, you know !!!! Krakow is a beautiful city, especially in the evening !!!! From the river, we got to see parts of the Old City we had not seen before:

The Wawel Castle

Another shot of the Castle as we rounded the bend.

Our resident tethered hot air balloon !!!

Self portrait while the sun set !!!

Wawel Castle on the return trip!!!

The balloon descending during sunset !!!

We had another celebration today! Today is the birthday of our language teacher, Kasia! The kids helped make her a small cake and a homemade birthday card. At the conclusion of our lesson, the kids came running in with party hats and noise makers, anxious to sing "Happy Birthday" in both English and Polish to Miss Kasia. They proudly presented their card to her and explained in great detail every picture................it was precious !!!

Kasia was so overwhelmed, she had difficulty finding the words in English to express how she felt behind held-back tears !!! She even stated that it was her best birthday in Krakow !!! Wow !!! It was such a blessing to lavishly love on a Pole...............even through the simplicity of a cake and a card. It really gave us a glimpse of how guarded the hearts are that surround us.............no wonder it's hard for them to grasp the lavish love of a Savior who died on their behalf! Oh, that we can find ways to communicate God's love like this daily.............would you help us pray for hearts made tender by the work of the Holy Spirit, hearts that are ready to embrace His Grace and acceptance.............maybe even Kasia's !!!!!