Summer Days

Last week we took a day trip with the youth group to Santa Cruz. The weather was absolutely perfect and we had a great time playing football, volleyball, strolling the boardwalk and playing in the sand. Joel loved it too, and didn't slow down all day!

Last week we also celebrated Justin's 25th birthday. I am so thankful for my faithful and loving husband. I'm excited to experience life this next year with him as well. We had just a little dinner, because he had a bigger birthday celebration over the weekend when the family was all together on Father's Day.

Last weekend my dear friend Andrea got married. What a privilege and blessing it was to share in this time with them in PA. It was a fast, but great trip, and I'm so thankful that God has brought her such a Christ-loving man!

Saturday Morning

What a fun morning we have had. Joel's been waking up earlier because of the brighter mornings, so we were all up and getting breakfast going by 7. Joel ran all around the house in his diaper (which is super cute) and Justin read to me from The Gospel Primer as I made some muffins and maple sausage. After breakfast, Justin settled on the couch to begin his day of seminary study. Joel, though, wasn't about to be left out. He brought over one of his books and settled next to his dad for some study too. I had to pull out the camera for this!

Also, we have a chin-up bar in our doorway, and Joel is determined that if daddy does it, I need to do it to. He's got down exactly what he needs to do, even down to the grunts as he pulls up and down. And we think little kids don't notice things...ha!

By 8:45, Joel was wiped out and ready for a nap. I'm so thankful for my precious family, and for the blessing of a morning to be together and enjoy this gift!

SoCal

We were able to spend last weekend with some of our Juniors and Seniors down in Southern California. It was beautiful weather and we had a great time together. Of course, I forgot to take pictures at the beach of Joel in his super cute little beach outfit, but here are some pics of our time at a Go Cart Racing place. It's amazing how soon boys enjoy cars...Joel gravitated to the car race arcade game right away! :)
Having some fun with Dance Revolution. He actually was stomping on the squares!

Shout for Joy

"Shout for joy to God, all the earth; sing the glory of His name; give to Him glorious praise! Say to God, 'How awesome are your deeds! So great is your power that your enemies come cringing to You. All the earth worships you and sings praises to you; they sing praises to your name.'"

I read this passage this morning from Psalm 66 in my quiet time, and my heart was lifted as I pondered the greatness of God. I can shout for joy because He is GLORIOUS, He is WORTHY of praise, He is AWESOME...He is GOD!

Catching Up!

Sorry it's been so long...here's some pictures of the past couple months!

Caleb's Visit

We were able to have Justin's brother Caleb spend a week with us on his way to China. We had a great time together. Joel especially enjoyed his treats from Uncle Caleb, including chocolate and suckers! =)

Our precious boy turned one!

We can't believe how fast this year has flown...Joel turned one on January 26. What a gift from God he is, and we are so grateful! We celebrated with an open house birthday party on Saturday in our home, and then a family dinner/birthday party on Sunday. How exciting to celebrate this special time!