Liberian Christmas

Hey everyone-Ryan and I want to wish everyone a late Merry Christmas! We are doing well here. Our office closed down for this week and the next, so we've been able to relax some which has been nice. And I am trying to catch up on some work too! :)
The Liberians love Christmas! When the office closed last Friday we all sang "We Wish You a Merry Christmas" and everyone left so happy...kind of like kids on the last day of school. We then continued to celebrate with a Christmas party on the beach. Something else kind of funny is one of the sayings you hear at Christmastime here...."Give me my Christmas." Strangers will say this to you, meaning they want something (money) from you. Interesting for sure!
A lot of the international SP staff went home for Christmas, but the few of us here on Christmas day got together for a potluck. We went to a home on the beach and enjoyed a great meal with all types of food. Afterward we sat on the porch and listened to the ocean while one of the guys played guitar and we sang worship songs. It was really a special time....I know for me personally it was a good time to reflect on why we are here and to be encouraged by the Lord and by our co-workers who are here for the same purpose.
It was definitely a different Christmas for us. It didn't necessarily "feel" like the Christmas we know, but it was a great memory that we'll always have. And for the first time I think I realized that we didn't have to have Christmas decorations, presents, or even relatives around for it to be Christmas. :) The focus really was on Christ, and that was an amazing feeling.
So, now we're looking forward to 2009 and all God wants to do! Thanks so much for your prayers as we continue to settle in and adjust. We need them and can feel them. :)