A Macedonian Christmas

 

Snow has finally fallen here in Strumica, Macedonia and it's absolutely beautiful. This picture is taken from our third story balcony.

Last night, the group of Americans here celebrated Christmas together. The Jakus family so graciously hosted the celebration. As Andrew and I were walking to their house I said to him, "It's starting to feel more like Christmas with the snow crunching under my feet." The night was full of listening to Christmas music, munching on all kinds of goodies, a white elephant gift exchange and lots of laughs. Andrew came home with a pocket knife (that he bought!) and I came home with cherry gummies and chocolates. Such a fun evening!

We are flying into the states on the 23rd...so soon! : ) We're so anxious to see family and friends. We'll be home for about a month. Andrew will be turning his cell phone back on so feel free to connect with us!

I hope you are all enjoying this time of the year and the significance that Christ's coming has for us as believers! "Go, tell it on the mountain, over the hills and everywhere! Go, tell it on the mountain that Jesus Christ is born!"

Won by 12!

ABA Strumica had a football basketball game last night. It was freezing cold in the gym. We guessed about 35 F. Pregame warm-ups had double meaning We played Kumanovo. ABA Strumica dominated the first half and held on tight for the second. Play was incredibly aggressive. A couple of our guys got injured; Zolke got a sprained wrist and Bobby a facial injury (not quite sure the extent of it). Our post guy, John Chappell, was pushed up and down the court. I'm not one to be known for how observant I am, but even I noticed how bad it was. The Kumanovo fans were equally as aggressive. They had a big drum and were chanting the whole game. Court-side fans tried to spit on the players when they came near. It was a zoo! Andrew played a great game though. The team played together as well as they have all year.