Visit to Rockford

This is a bit late, but we wanted to share some of the joys we had during our all-too-brief visit to Rockford, IL. It lasted only one night and part of two days. Patience was recovering from sickness, but she was sweet and happy as usual, and it gave her one more excuse to stay home from school and visit with us. We also enjoyed a not-baby-any-more Corban--energetic yet very sweet.

Thank you Rockford Bixbys for letting us crash in on you! We are sad that we won't get to see you again (or our family north of you) before we leave for France in June.

Fun in Vermont

Stefan enjoyed exploring the creek and the barn at Lydia's parents.

Giving sweet little Cooper lots of kisses!

This is one incredible yard!

Our visits with Nati, Gina and Laetitia

The weekend we were gone was special as we were able to spend some time with some special people. We weren't at the Guetli long, but we did squeeze in a little tête-a-tête or two! We enjoyed seeing several old friends besides Nati. From there we went to Basel to see Gina. She fixed us a delicious Swiss meal and we chatted for a couple of hours. Then off to Geneva. Laetitia actually lives on the French side of the border. We had a great time with her and even did some sightseeing. I didn't edit the pictures, so there are a lot that you can look through! Just click here.

Dinner with some special people!

Last night Jonny and Maria Baker came over. They had to be back on campus for a concert, so they had very little time, but they ended up coming back after the concert for dessert. We had a great time together. They are some very special kids and have a very special place in my heart. They are both technically sophmores, but Maria is almost 22, and Jonny is almost 2o. They sat out for a while from PCC before transferring this semester to BJ. I'm thrilled to have them nearby. Tim and Ruth joined us. They had come over to help me with some things at the house. I could NEVER have gotten things done without them. See my blog for pictures of Ruth's and my accomplishement. I'll post some of Tim's later. He impressed me with his handymanism! I'm exhausted and still have a lot to do. I will post pictures on my blog of the house and yard--which is looking amazing--when everything is done and the realtor has left.

Germany-- Part 2

The first afternoon almost everyone went sightseeing in Fulda-- a beautiful town about 30 minutes from the place where we were staying. It is the center of catholicism even today. It was a perfect day for being outside. If you want to see more pictures go here. I uploaded some more pictures of conference, too, if you are interested.

Happy Birthday!

Inspite of your husband's absence on this very special day, we are confident that the lovely children you have reared will rise up and call their mother blessed today. (I'm sure Daniel will spoil you upon his return.) We are thankful for you and your love for God and dedication to your family. You are an inspiration to all of us. Thank you for being you!
Have a wonderful birthday!

Playing with Bubbles!

Germany-- Part 1

Here are just a few shots of our time at the Germany Field Team Conference. The second picture on top you can see the Youth Hostel in the back. Beautiful facilities. The bottom right corner is the group picture. The others are just some shots of the things that we did. It was very well organized, but also very relaxed. More to come...

Micaiah loses his first tooth!

OK, so the pictures aren't too flattering, but you do get the idea that this is one happy boy to have lost his first tooth! It's been loose for more than a week, and he has been wiggling it, but unwilling to let anyone even consider pulling it. We haven't pressured him about it at all, and sure enough, last night it just popped right out into his hand during dinner. And he ever so calmly holds it out to me and says, "Look, Mom. Here's my tooth."

The "tooth fairy" paid a little visit last night, and he's bargaining with the fairy to try to get the tooth back to show it off and still be able to keep his dollar.

Finally ... Spartanburg Easter pics

A few from the breakfast:

... and the "Resurrection Egg" hunters:

ADOPTION DAY!

Patience, we are truly blessed to have you in our family. I hope you have a special day today!

Shots around the Jones Farm

The middle bottom is Fort Fremont--Civil war fort, bottom left is the front of the building they are getting ready to rent for their assembly. The kids, especially Corban, LOVED the farm!

The Joneses

Some shots of the Jones family. It was such a blessing to "re-meet" this family. Since retiring from the military they have been church planting in St. Helena, SC. It is a hard, taxing environment. Their faithfulness and dedication in a difficult environment was an incredible blessing. Their children are a tribute to their godliness. Sweet kids.

Peek-a-Boo, I See YOU!

On Sunday after church we drove to Beaufort and met with the Jones--church planters in St. Helena. We ate supper at a fish food restuarant which had buckets in the middle for crab bones, etc.... Corban found better uses for the hole! :-) Too Cute!

The Wedding

I know some of these are fuzzy, but hopefully it will give you a taste. It was a beautiful wedding. Crystal was vibrant, the ceremony was beautiful, the message was excellent.

Patience in 4th Grade!

On Friday, Patience joined me for lunch and the rest of the afternoon. I think she enjoyed being in 4th grade for the day, and my students definitely enjoyed her! Auntie Donna enjoyed showing her off!

Taxi, Please!!

Big brother Dan helping his sister get around with her broken arm!

Family Time at the Park

Yesterday the kids were needing some outdoor time, and the weather was just perfect for it! Our hosts recommended Penitentiary Glen Reservation to us, and we made the most of it. We had a wonderful, relaxing time making memories together as a family, and thought we'd share a few of our pictures with you.