Holiday Vacation-Showin Some Gratitude

WOW- It's been an AMAZING vacation so far. John and I and the kids left La Paz Dec 12. at 6am. We drove 14 hours the first day- VERY LONG DAY! The kids did amazing though (we had the DVD player- Thank you Jesus!!) The next day we crossed the border and made it to my Grandmother's in Loma Linda (which is where we stayed the first week) We had an amazing time with my Grandmother- she spoiled us!! The kids were lavished with gifts and clothes and John and I the same.
From Loma Linda, we then went to Ventura. John and I recently connected with a group of people there who we have fallin in love with. So we stayed there for a weekend- again we were totally spoiled!! I am not sure I have ever had such extravagant dinners like the ones they prepared for us every day we were there. We felt like royalty in their house! It was a blast getting to be with them. We look forward to spending time with them again here in a couple of days.
From Ventura we traveled to Vacaville- where we stayed a night with Garrett and Joanna Davis. Garrett was our nanny while John and I were in School of Ministry- but over the years has become a brother to us- His family is very special to our hearts and we were so glad to have time with them.
From Vacaville we headed to Sacramento- got to see our long time friends, Demetrius and Latrica- We have had a lot of history with these guys and again, they are like family to us. It was good to catch up with them- felt like old times.
From Sac we then went to Grass Valley where we stayed with my second family, the Mains. I have known these people since I was about 10yrs old. Words do not describe what a blessing and a treasure these people have been to our family. They have blessed us not only financially, but spiritually. The Mains are the type of people every time you think of them, you just have to smile because they just ooooz the glory of God.
From there we came up to Redding where we spent Christmas with my Aunt and Uncle and John's family. It was an incredible Christmas!! Not only because of the gifts we were given, but some of the re-connections that were made. I got re-acquainted with some people very dear to my heart, Donna Capps and Graig and Tammy Jones. It was one of the best Christmas presents ever!
From my aunt and uncle's house we then went to Linda Joiner's house. (which is where we are now.) Linda has been a long time friend and mentor to us who's friendship we cherish, love, and adore. Our time in Redding has been very busy, but wonderful. We have had so much fun re-connecting with friends and family.
Relationships are sure an important part of the kingdom. They will teach you a lot about God's character, His love, His loyalty, His commitment, etc, etc. We are so thankful for the relationships God has put in our lives- it's something we take very seriously. We know that a part of our destiny is within each person that God has strategically brought into our lives. Relationships are important and they are important to God.

We head back to Mexico Wednesday the 5th. It's been an amazing trip! We are anticipating all the awesome things God is going to do this year. We really believe it's a season of stewarding the grace and favor God has put on lives. We also believe it's a season for growth (there is always room for growth!!) a season of realizing more and more who we are in HIM. It's gonna be a great year!! We wish you all a great one and Thank You for all your prayers, support, love, and encouragement- words are just not enough for the gratitude that we feel for each one of you.

Bringing Freedom to the Nations-
John and Jess and the kiddos