Coming out of Hibernation...

It's been a LONG time again since I've posted anything. Here are some random shots of our life...

A trip to the Maple Sugar Festival at Spring Water Conservation Area:
The Rope Walk

Siah...because he's just cute.

Swinging at the park on that beautiful week we had EARLY this Spring.

The lovely group shot of Becky's boys, Belinda's kiddos and My ladies.

Chalking...

Visiting Taun in Michigan

Sisters

Sisters are Like...
flowers in the Spring,
a hug on a bad day,
a friend who just 'gets it'.

Sisterhood runs deep...
because you grew up in the same home,
you know where they got their characters from,
you've shared the giggles and the wounds.

Sisters in Christ...
are a glimmer of the fellowship of Heaven,
reflect the hope of our future there,
and have a bond that is ETERNAL!

Last Friday we drove to MI in the snow. We got to love on our nephews and niece for a bit and then stole their Mom for a night away. We (or should I say 'I') ate lots, laughed tons, shopped like women, swam like fish (OK, maybe NOT), and shared some Bible/prayer time. For more of our weekend, check out Taun's Blog.

Kara having her eyebrows 'threaded' in the mall. This an Indian technique used instead of waxing. Very neat to watch.

Mr. Jude watching us leave from the front window.

Mia opening her birthday gift from Caleb and Tiana...

Valentines from cousins.

Hair clips for Esmé's birthday.

Sen got some too...

Winter Days

Be Warned!!!!

When boy cousins come for more than one day....

They get mauled...

...and, well, ummm....they get girlie! Meet Princess Blake! Truth be told, he didn't realize it was a crown-or that was just his excuse?!

Some Randoms...

Caleb and Mia reading together...giant Busy Town book.

Munchin on apples!

A belt I made for Mia. Lynnette found this idea on Etsy. All you need is ribbon, two D rings and a needle with thread. Very easy and fun to make. I'll make you one for a price!

Happy Birthday Esmé!! 3 Years Old!

When I tuck this critter in at night, I am very thankful for her health. She reminds us often of God's grace in His care towards her. When she was born she spent 11 days in the hospital with a heart abnormality. It has not affected her since and the Dr's do not expect it to. Her last echo was in 2008 and her next one is in Sept 2010.

Then...

Now...

Apparently she felt left out at Christmas when we bought Mia and Ksena CD players for their room...'a player' was her birthday request.

Sunday birthday coffee...

A beautiful vest from Grandma. Candy from A. Shaylynn (I think?)

A Peek Inside!

In case you hadn't heard the news yet, now you can see it!!!

Baby due Aug 30. I was so amazed at how tiny this little baby is and at how much it was moving when the tech showed me the image. What an incredible creator!!!

"BEFORE I formed you in the womb I knew you;" Jeremiah 1:5a

"I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made;

Marvelous are Your works,

And that my soul knows very well." Psalm 139:14

Singing her Heart Out

My Mom gave the girls a Jamie Soles CD (The Way My Story Goes) for Christmas. Ksena listens to it 24hrs a day! This Cd has so much information from the Old Testament in it-get it for your kiddos-they will love it!

Note: Don't forget to press stop on my music player to hear this video!

Candy n' Cupcakes
I've never decorated cupcakes for a boy, so I was seriously worried to make them for Micah's birthday party. They were very fun to make! And working with blue was a treat!

Mia Turns Six!!!

On Jan 5 Mia turned 6 years old! It is so amazing to have a big girl!! Of course she is dreaming of being even bigger, like Aunt Shaylynn or something. What a blessing to see another year of her life!

Family Birthday Coffee...

Surprise Party for Dan's 30th Birthday!

Boy was Dan surprised! "Chill out Mel!!"....if you were there, you know exactly what that's all about! There were over 50 people in attendance from as far as Texas, Florida and Michigan! Dude, I married one special guy! In all seriousness, we are so thankful to God for the life He has given Dan. My heart is full when I see Him lead our family and love on us. Thank you Heavenly Father for abundantly and graciously providing!

Noise makers and hats compliments of Monica who knew that Dan wanted these for his 30th birthday party.

Mia hogging Nico ;O)

Sen's turn...

Baby Anna Grace...such a sweetie!!

Texas guest...sorry Nick, I couldn't help posting such a flattering picture.

THANK YOU everyone for coming and making Dan's 30th memorable!!!!