Praying for Newtown, CT as We Approach Our Lord's Nativity

It was another eventful week here in the Lowcountry and nationwide, very unfortunately. We, along with the rest of the nation and world, mourn the tragic massacre that took place in Newtown this past Friday. If you have children, tell them everyday that you love them. If you have a sibling, always be thankful for their presence in your life. We never know when we will leave this earth so we must always be prepared to go.

That being said, we tell of our week of not so important events...

Chris was accepted to Boston University for some online courses as electives for Wash U in order to remain on track for his Masters program. Go Terriers! Jo finished her finals for the semester - leaving her with three more courses until she will have her Masters in Organizational Development from Webster!

James Island Light Festival

Wednesday, the Feast of Our Lady of Gaudalupe, we went to see the James Island Park Christmas lights with our friends Sarah and Trey; a drive thru light show for the holidays. We then dined at Brickhouse Kitchen; it is a large home with a restaurant inside. I (Chris) had the Penne Pasta w/ Shrimp, Tomatoes, Artichoke hearts and Feta cheese. Rita Jo had crab cakes with Arugula Pesto. If you make it to Charleston, this is an interesting place to eat and they have live mic nights and other outdoor events as well.

Our friends, the McMichaels, sent us their Christmas card, with some newly wed gifts: 4 port wine glasses, a bottle of Stone Hill winery Port, a tray and a jar of free/cheap/fancy date ideas. Thank you!

Jo's first Instagram attempt!

As has been the case for a while, I have continued half marathon training - less than 5 weeks away already. I went on a 10 mile run Saturday morning with Mike L while RJ baked cookies for our work holiday parties.

Saturday evening, we attended Jo's manager's work Christmas party. His wife prepared some delicious heavy hors d'oeuvres and made an awesome Amaretto cake! It was good to meet more folks from the Charleston site (for Chris) and to avoid work discussions outside of the office for once!

Today, Gaudete (Rejoice) Sunday, the third Sunday of Advent, we enjoyed our first meal on our new kitchen table - pumpkin pancakes and French press coffee thanks to the lovely Mrs. Horan! She also made this beer bread using Widmer Brothers "Brrr" Seasonal Ale with some honey butter to spread on for the second work Christmas party of the weekend. It was quite the hit!

                 

Happy Birthday to my (Chris') mom tomorrow on her 31st...I mean 48th birthday! We love you! 

We may be on hiatus for a little while until we have returned to Charleston from Christmas break! We pray for safe travels for all this holiday season! 

Continue to pray for the souls of those killed, including the shooter, in Newtown, CT and for their families and loved ones...

Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. Through the mercy of God, may they rest in peace. 

St Rose of Lima, pray for us! Amen. 

+JMJ+