Christmas gift preparation

We had another early start today stopping by the supermarket to buy sweets and bars of chocolate for the Widow's Mite presents. We had considered buying them Christmas Chocolate Father Christmas's but I promptly reconsidered when I saw the cost. They were approximately 2 pounds each and I managed to get a bar of chocolate and a nice packet of boiled sweets for 41 pence each. It is called stretching the money which is a way of life for me on the mission field and in private.

Afterwards we went by Minibus out to the village of Sofronea (about 5 miles outside the city towards the Hungarian Border) to the home of Pastor Jackie. We spent the day making up 160 presents for the Mocrea Hospital patients and 27 gifts for the Widow's Mite Project - we give thanks that the Havens Sheltered Housing Complex in Hirwaun had already provided us with 8 beautiful Granny boxes. We had already sent the items out in bulk from Wales and so it was a matter of sorting them and packing. We completely took over Pastor Jackie's house with boxes and packets everywhere - however we completed the task in time to catch the last train home at 7.15pm. We enjoyed a beautiful meal, courtesy of Jackie's neighbour and helper Vio, who has the most beautiful little 4 month old baby called Richy seen here in his teddy bear suit.

It was great to have a chat with the family tonight. We are very weary and hope to have an earlier night.