this is the new year

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! Ok…so that was so like a month ago but at least it’s still January. As Natalie and I look back on 2007 we’re both amazed at all that took place. So much happened over the course of such a small amount of time. We moved for starters…away from our families and closest friends. We left a church and staff that we considered family…we also lost a dear friend on Christmas day. All that to say that I’m sure 2008 will hold and unleash more than we can imagine. I shared with Natalie tonight about a few things going on a work. We’re both still amazed at all God has done here and continues to do through this body of believers. I’ve felt so challenged and feel as though Natalie and I both are taking major ground in our marriage and in our walk with Christ. We’ve both been encouraged as we’ve poured into the community around us. Last weekend we had over 15 kids in the house…we had a great time! I came up with a treasure hunt for everyone that kept the kids busy for close to an hour. When all was said and done, we ended up having a big popcorn and coke party. Natalie has come alonside an older women who lived next door to us for a few months. Our community group pulled together and was able to help move her down to south Dallas. Natalie has stayed in touch with her and has even taken the girls down to have lunch with her…it’s been amazing to see God at work! Another recent change of pace for us has been that Natalie and I have started attending CR (celebrate recovery). We’re three weeks in and can already see Gods hand at work in us. We’ve had close to 200 newcomers start attending CR this month…WOW! It’s been such a ride and we continue to look forward to what the year holds for us here and all our friends and family in Arkansas…our prayers and thoughts are with you all…
In Him,
Josh

The Carr’s Crazy Camping Adventure

Camping 2007
It’s that time of year again…when things get cool and chili seems to taste better than ever. Yes, fall has officially come and Christmas is soon to be around the corner. I’m always reminded when the seasons change of the creativeness of our great God! While some find joy in heading to the beach when it get’s hot and others venture into mountains and freeze to death…I like to say that I most enjoy camping in the fall. At any rate I’m not a true “camper” (i.e. Craig Loibner, Taido Chino, Annette Avery) like others I know but I do enjoy it. This year Natalie and I took the girls up to Arkansas to meet up with some great friends to go camping. Kindell and Corinne had so much fun playing with friends and enjoyed staying cool in the river close by. All in all, we had a great time connecting with friends and taking in the great outdoors. Like every trip, this one had it’s moments. Kyah for instance decided she wanted to wake everyone up a few times each night. Jonathan Jones took a tumble into the lake and the Hall boys felt the need to jump into the lake…I think it topped in at about 40 degrees. Craig managed to find some odd conversation with some locals while Taido found himself cooking for 25. I’ll close with saying thanks so all who made our trip back home one filled with fun, food and adventure. We love you all and hope to see you soon…
In Him,
The Carr’s