The other day I was on the Metro, and since it takes about 1 hour to get anywhere in Paris I had some time to think. I decided that though there are many nice coiffurs (hair cutting places) close to our house, I could probably do it myself and save about 25 euros. I always pay attention at the hair salon and even had layering explained to me before leaving the states. I mentioned to my roommate that I was pretty sure I could cut hair if I needed to, and she said I could start with hers. So, this morning in our kitchen I gave my first haircut! Complete with layers and was even on both sides. It turned out a little shorter than she requested, but that just means it will be longer until she needs another one :)

this sign is everwhere in Paris, maybe where you live too...but I think it is hilarious! Basically it says "89% of men whose wives play PS2 (Play Station 2) are spending more time with their kids"

the nicest day I have seen here, you just can't take too many pics of the tower :)

one famous Rose window inside the cathedral

the doors of Notre Dame

a view of the Seine...this is not close to where we live, just in case you are wondering :)

while helping put out the presents from Santa, after the kids went to bed, we heard the neighbors outside and realized that this French man was dressing up as Santa for his family. He offered to come over and pose for some pictures and even woke up the youngest boy to wish him a Merry Christmas...it was really random yet very festive :)

when you spend Christmas in a house with 5 kids you have to play a little :) Anna and I found this wig, hat & beard (that would not stay on) just before some family movie time on Christmas Eve. We were told we resembled Mr. & Mrs. Clause in the early years...I hate being the guy, but at least I don't have a mullet!

Joyeux Noel du Notre Dame! (Merry Christmas from...) This year the story is fresh in my heart as I think about celebrating. A Holy God came to earth, to live and die for me, so that I might be brought back to Him. What a precious Lord we serve. I pray Jesus is truly celebrated in your life this year.

A sunny day in Paris is rare so we sure enjoyed this one.

The headless one in the middle is St. Denis. It is said that after being beheaded his body got up, picked up his head, and walked to the outskirts of Paris where he died...this suburb is now named after him because of this story. I was glad to see him honored at the entrace to Notre Dame when I visited this week.

about 3 blocks from our house there is an Italian restaurant...and even when they are closed you may still get a hot pizza out of this "pizza vending machine" oustide the store! You just choose which kind you want, insert the money, wait 4 minutes, and take your food home! We tried it today for Sunday lunch and I will say it was the best vending maching pizza I ever had :)

My address: 14 rue Bidel / 92600 ASNIERES, France

the view from my kitchen window, yes that is the Eiffel tower in the distance...we live on the 5th floor (with no elevator) in an apartment that is just outside of Paris.

the tower at night :)

"Palce Igor Stravinsky" or that great fountain where they have a photo shoot in the movie Sabrina! This is Paris' first contemporary fountain.

my first day here we went to this building, and while watching people ice skate out front realized there was a petition to sign to free the French journalists who are being held captive...so I did my part for my new country by signing!

Not the best picture, but proof I am here!! Every hour the Eiffel tower sparkles for 10 minutes-- so beautiful!!

Bonjour! I sure do wish that you all could see how beautiful Paris is decorated for Christmas. Though it sure has been chilly! I can't seem to wear enough layers to stay warm while walking around the city. I start French school on Monday and look forward to learning some language so that I can communicate with all the people I see each day. I also have been visiting the suburb where I will start working this week. Honestly it is hard to see the mass poverty that the people live in, but I believe that my Father is already in conversation with them. My prayer is that I will see with His eyes and daily walk in obediance where He leads. I miss you all and will send pics once I get my computer online. Thanks friends :)

Paris here I come!! My visa finally arrived so I will be departing Monday December 6th. Thanks for your support and prayers as I take this next step.