Ringing in the New Year with Fun, Fellowship, and Monopoly Money

We rang in the New Year with a Casino Night at the beloved Party Palace. It was such a creative idea - everyone there was given toy money to play with, there were several options of tables to play at, and we were all instructed to bring an unopened gift. At the end of the night, we got to pick out a gift to take home in order of who ended up with the most money. All I have to say is that my husband and I are exhausted, but it was all worth it for the great fun and fellowship we had!!

~ Ringing in the New Year with the friends from church for whom we are so thankful - This was such a great way to celebrate, closing out what has been a precious first year with my husband~

O Lord,

Length of days does not profit me

except the days are passed

in Thy presence, in Thy service, to Thy glory.

Give me a grace that precedes, follows, guides,

sustains, sanctifies, aids every hour,

that I may not be one moment apart from Thee,

but may rely on Thy Spirit

to supply every thought,

speak in every word,

direct every step,

prosper every work,

build up every mote of faith,

and give me a desire to show forth Thy praise;

testify Thy love, advance Thy kingdom.
I launch my bark on the unknown waters of this year,

with Thee, O Father as my harbour,

Thee, O Son, at my helm,

Thee O Holy Spirit, filling my sails. . .

(taken from Valley of Vision, cited at www.challies.com)