Update 12/22: We've done a lot since we last added photos or an update here.  Much of it is similar to the normal (school, work, play, trip to Galilee).  With the exception of Katie (now 8 months), the kids don't change so quickly these days.  Luke and Mark are both in kindergarten (at different schools), both are learning Hebrew, and both love it.  Bethany talks more than Mark now, and does not seem to be on the path to becoming a shy and reserved young lady (her parents are ok with that).  Katie is a doll, getting attention wherever she goes.  We're thinking that the winter break is appropriately named - the van has broke (now fixed) and the new scanner (which cost more than the new engine for the van) just broke :-(.  What's not broke: our health, our humor, and our faith in an ever-wise and greatly-merciful Father. The IBEX families (with 12 kids younger than 10 years) went last week to the "Safari" in Tel Aviv.  We had a great time, and we have posted photos of our trip.		Family photo - Dec. 13, 2004 (click photo for larger size)   IBEX Kids at lunch (click photo for larger size)    mp3 file Katie making noises 45 seconds (Requires QuickTime player)

The safari started out on the bus, driving through the "open" area where animals roamed freely and we could see them through the bus windows.  You can see how popular Uncle Randy became in the front seat.  Afterwards, we got out for a walk around the zoo.

The giraffes could get a bit closer than some of the other animals (and a good thing - the leopard was lunging at us!) and the kids enjoyed the close view.

All the kids posed for a photo.  Our kids took turns at pushing Katie around in her stroller.

Luke jumped on the balancing beam and mastered it quite well.		For the afternoon, we visited the IKEA showroom where we had lunch (see kids photo at top) and then found a grocery store with p--- nearby :-).  So now we are enjoying b---- and eggs for breakfast!