Carrie Tedder

The fifth floor of a red brick hosptial was where I inhaled my first breath. Born to great parents and surrounded by a large Christian family, I was loved and spoiled! I am the oldest of three kids. We had a fun, carefree childhood that consisted of playing barefoot in the summer, climbing trees, and chasing after the daily ice cream truck. It was during one of those sizzling summers that I was presented with a clear, retro presentation of the Gospel while attending VBS. The story of Christ's birth, death and resurrection was drawn in coloured chalk and enhanced with a cool black light. I still remember that the cross glowed when the visiting artist flicked on the black light! That was the day of my second birth.

The next big event for me occured in the early eighties. With lavendar bridesmaid dresses chosen and Farah Fawcett hair sprayed in place, I walked the church aisle. I married Mark, my life's soulmate in 1982. Twenty five years later - it's still all about the love!

Then in 1985 we relocated house and work to England. Punk was in and WHAM were top of the pops. The next year Benjamin, our blue-eyed blond with techy genuis tendencies, was born. And because boys basically rock, God gave us another one in 1988. Daniel, our smiling brown eyed drummer was born in Bath, England.

Today, Ben is a dashing 21 year old sporting a college degree. He is a graphic designer in China. Daniel is 19 and lives in Beijing while he manages university studies online. He mentors under his Dad in the area of lworship eadership.

Content, purpose-driven, joyful, and fulfilled are all words I might use to describe myself while living in the shadow of Calvary's Cross. On days when I step outside the shadow's safety; freaked out, worried, a time waster, sinful, and full of pride then become my descriptions.

Though the ink is still drying on my life's story - I am confident that the One who started this saga will finish it. He will finish it to his satisfaction and pleasure. To Him be glory and honor and power forever!