Merry Christmas!!!!!!

In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. (This was the first census that took place while Quirnius was governor of Syria.) And everyone went to his own town to register. So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them. "Do not be afraid, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger."

Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,

"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests."

When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about."

So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.

~Luke 2:1-20

This has been a wonderful Christmas. God's love has been everywhere. Our mantle and fridge are filled with Christmas cards and photos, our tummies are filled with food, and we've been surrounded by wonderful friends and family.

On Saturday we were able to have lunch with "Physics" Auntie and Uncle Lin. They took us to the perfect place, with yummy food and no crowds. We had such a wonderful time chatting about everything, and getting some science lessons as well. (Auntie Lin has probably tutored every Taiwanese kid in the area, including me and Joe!)

Sunday, I went off to church and Joe stayed home because of the large service. In the afternoon, David came over to watch the Steelers game with Joe. David's company was very much appreciated. The game is not really worth mentioning. In the evening, David joined our families for Christmas dinner! We did the "Chinese restaurant thing" so we could focus on fun and family, rather than cooking and cleaning. It was great. At the restaurant we were able to see several friends and that was great too!

After dinner, we followed the annual tradition of going to Joe's parents house to open gifts. As usual it was fun and chaotic. Somehow though, it felt much more special and meaningful this year. We didn't really discuss it, but I'm sure everyone had in their mind all that we have been through this year and what is to come. Maybe I'm dreaming and imagining things, but the time we had together as a family last night just seemed so perfect. Then again, of course I didn't imagine it. It was perfect. I'm so thankful to our families. They are just wonderful.

This week is all about resting and relaxing and preparing for the hospital. Joe will get his blood drawn tomorrow. I'll update when we find out the results.

Thank you, thank you, thank you to our parents and brothers for being so generous with your love. Your gifts were generous too. But most appreciated is your love, patience, support, and time. We love you!!!!!!

Thank you David for joining us. You have been such a great friend to Joe, and our families think you're the best!

Thank you to "Physics" Auntie and Uncle Lin for treating us to a wonderful lunch. What a cherished memory.

Thank you Auntie S.B. Lin for the homemade food. It is SO yummy. Our families are so jealous! (Ooops, I guess we should have shared!)

Thank you so very much to Crystal; Pastor Jim & Kathy; Peggy, Kevin, Meagan, Lauren, & Vivian; Louison, Ping & Ethan; and Julie for all the yummy treats and goodies. I think everyone is trying to plump up Joe for transplant! Thank you, thank you!

Thank you to Gretchen and David for the gifts. You are such wonderful encouragement.

And thank you to my 2nd Auntie & Uncle and 3rd Auntie & Uncle and all of my dear cousins. You have shown us so much love in so many ways even though you are all so far away. I really have the best relatives!

A very HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Tim (yesterday),
December (today),
Lora, and ChristinaMarie (tomorow)!!!!!!!!

A very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to everyone!!!!!!!!!!!!