Harvey Travel Arts

Happy New Year! Here's wishing that the snow melts into spring, and God's seasons bring you new joy.

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6 Merry Christmas to all of you and yours!

Inside the caves at Valkenburg, we found evidence of their history all over the walls. These silhouettes were taken of American soldiers during WWII. The soldiers used these caves as a hideout from enemy forces. Jews were also hidden in the caves at various times during the War. Today, they have to have grating over the silhouettes in order to protect from graffiti. It is sad that others do not have a respect for history, and cannot understand that if history is not preserved, it could be repeated. So here's a prayer in time, thanking God for protecting our men and women in uniform, and for their dedicated service, no matter what conflicts they may be a part of.

The theme of one of two Christmas Markets in Valkenburg, Netherlands was "A Christmas Carol". For the next couple of weeks, I'll show pictures from these caves. The entrance was decked out with scenes from long ago, and it brought me along a trip down memory lane. More on that in a moment... Anyway, above you can probably barely see the silhouette of the "Grim Reaper" or death in the center window. If you've read or watched "A Christmas Carol" you will remember that the "Ghost of Christmas Future" comes bearing a Phantom reminding Ebeneezer Scrooge of Death. This marks the turning point for Ebeneezer, where he decides to keep the Spirit of Christmas alive within him. As far as my trip down memory lane? When I was in the 6th grade, we read "A Christmas Carol" and acted out the story in a mini-play for the school and our parents. I think my part included coming to the table as one of the Cratchit children.