Joseph's 1st Anniversary of His Savior Day!

It's been an entire year since this precious treasure accepted Christ as his Savior. We are daily encouraged at the Holy Spirit's work in his life. He loves BIG and has a deep passion to show love to those around him. God is doing some awesome things through this kid. We are honored to be able to be a part of his life.

 



His anniversary was on the 9th, but we had to wait to celebrate together as a family on the 13th.

Happy Birthday to Me!

Seeing as though I'm coming up on the big 3-0, Andy wanted to do something bigger to celebrate my birthday this year. He asked if I wanted a party or to go away. I said neither. I wanted our kitchen, hallway and stairwell painted. Our home was built in 1974 and it doesn't seem like the kitchen, hallway or stairwell had been painted since then. I'm not exaggerating. Unlike a bedroom or bathroom which can be closed off from the kids while they are home, our main living area cannot. So, we haven't attempted to paint them the entire time we've lived here. And, they needed a paint job desperately.

 

You should have seen the look on his face when I told him that's what I wanted for my birthday. I hated to do it to him, but at the same time, that's honestly all I wanted. He paused and cheerfully said "okay". I knew he was overwhelmed just thinking about it. Well, his dad and step mom came in to save the day once again!!! (This is not the first time they've come in and helped us paint.) The timing worked out perfectly. I had already had a visit planned to visit some friends out of town, so they came in while I was away with the kids and did it all in 2 days.  I am on cloud nine. It is amazing what a couple coats of paint can do for a room...and for the woman who lives in it!

 

Here is our kitchen before and after. The color doesn't look right on the screen, but you get the general idea.

 



 

Not only did Andy's parents drive from 2 hours away and commit 2 entire days to this gruesome task, I came home to all new stainless steel wall plates!!!  They look amazing. They made things look so put together and complete. As I entered our home, I immediately choked up. The love, thoughtfulness and sheer talent overwhelmed me. They are impeccable painters! We don't live in a palace, but I certainly feel like a queen in our fancied up home. Thanks again, Dad and Berta, for making my birthday so memorable! I love you both.

 

*I haven't taken pictures of the hallway and stairwell yet. But, it's a light green color called soft fern by Benjamin Moore. 

Fast Friends

In this day and age, people are finding their soul mates and marrying them through the internet, so I guess I shouldn't be surprised when I meet and become fast friends with a woman over the internet, but I still am. Jennifer and my paths crossed about 5ish years ago through a mutual friend and we immediately connected. We met for the first time in person about 3 years ago but haven't seen each other since then.

 

We talked about trying to get together this summer and were finally able to make it happen. It was fantastic. The kids had a blast together and we once we got them all settled in bed were able to chat the night away just the two of us.

 

 

What a blessing this woman has been in my life these past years! I have found so much strength and comfort in her! Love you, Jennifer!

 

22 Weeks

Andy and the boys finally convinced me to take some pictures of "new baby". It's always easy to brush it off and say we'll do it later, but I'm so glad they succeeded this time. I'm going to cherish the pictures of me and my baby girl for years to come.

 



Girl Things

A sweet friend of our family gave Annabelle all of her old hair accessories for her birthday and the boys had an absolute blast initiating her into the world of girl stuff. It's precious to see how excited they get for her girly things. Since she has turned two, Annabelle has considerably ramped it up in the girl department. She is now constantly asking me for my chapstick to put on and is wanting to always comb her hair. This whole growing up thing is happening way too fast for me.