Make all you can, Save all you can, Give all you can - John Wesley

The trip to VA was such a blessing. The wedding was truly blessed, the kids did great, we had lots of help, I got to have quality time with the bride, and it all came together. As only God can make it, if you know what I mean.

We were refreshed by connecting with some folks we knew from college and were still in the area. Ron, who married us back in the day, and his family were still in the area, and it was a God thing to connect with him, pray with him, and have the encouragement we needed.

The weather was perfect on the wedding day, here is the whole family up to date. Not the best candid shot, but you get the idea:
Thankful to have the family picture too...without too much stress! Daniel still sleeps with the pillow he used as the ring bearer.
Some bubbly fun in the grandparent's cool tub...
And of course we come back hitting the ground running. Daniel had his first soccer game this past Monday, and scored! I got it on video below, it is hard to see, but it was him.

And now I am excited about a girl time in DC with my best friend from college...Kevin will be on parent duty for just two nights. I am looking for some time to recharge, and then it is onto school. Ready or not here we go!

Turning the Corner

A strange thing happened to me this past weekend. I took the kids to the beach, and I enjoyed myself. Kevin was at work, it was just the three and me, and we had fun. Then we went to the zoo as a family, and I didn't need my stroller. The kids all walked, and stayed close. I didn't really know what to do with my hands, well I was able to pet an elephant, which was cool, but it hit me. My kids are growing up. Noah is asking to use the potty, Daniel is a huge helper, Rachel is a great encourager, and they are growing up. As we turn the corner on summertime, and sprint to the finish, I think the end of this summer will be bringing some new and exciting times. Not all easy, but good.

Here Daniel is looking out from one of our newer rope swings.

Rachel loves frogs, and catching them, and here she is showing one off.
She loves to paint, and has such a joy with her arts and crafts.
Here are the cousins at the zoo last week. We were celebrating Hadessa's birthday, and it is a joy to be around for these occasions.
I love the quote at the top of this one: Social Animals
Noah is chatting up a storm, and I need to remember to video him, because that raspy little voice will continue to change.