Piano Recital

Our baby girl did very well at her first piano recital---she played "Ode to Joy" by Beethoven. We are very proud of her. Our prayer is that all of our children will use their gifts and talents to glorify God.

Swimming Party

The girls had a combined birthday party (again) at the pool. They turned 7 and 10 this year. Their guests included: aunts and uncles, old friends from back home, and new friends here. They had a really fun time at their party.

Easter

Easter 2007 was a very cold one. The kids couldn't wear their Easter outfits because it was just too cold. We also had to move the Easter egg hunt indoors. They didn't mind---we hid eggs under the couch, behind the TV, in the magazine rack, and even in Uncle's pocket!

Just Chillin'

Spring is in the air! When the weather is nice, we enjoy playing out in the front yard---they ride bikes, rollerblade or jump rope. This day, the kids were particularly joyful and the day was gorgeous; it made me think of the words from one of our favorite choruses: "This is the day that the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it!"

Upward Basketball

The girls played organized basketball for the first time--Upward Basketball. They both had a great time. They are already looking forward to playing again next winter. The girls were blessed to have great coaches that taught them not only great basketball skills, but also taught them to practice sportsmanship and to demonstrate Christian character at all times. These two things, along with Scripture, are at the heart of Upward Sports---it is so awesome!

Snow!

The kids were so excited to wake up and find snow on the ground! The girls pelted Daddy with snowballs, made snow angels, and played with some neighbor girls. He didn't have that much fun, he was just cold. This was our attempt at a snowman, actually "snowgirl".

Family

We went home in January for my precious Aunt Petra's funeral. It was a sad occasion, of course, because we will miss her, but it was also joyous because my Mom had led her to the Lord during her last few weeks on earth. We know that we will see her again. One of the beautiful things about funerals is that you end up having a family reunion of sorts. We were able to see extended family members that we hadn't seen in years. In this photo, from left to right: Grandma (my Mom), Me, my sisters, and my babies.

Christmas

We've had many "firsts" this year, including our first Christmas here. We spent a very restful day at home and spent Christmas evening with W & J. As with all "firsts", there was a sadness, yet a certain excitement, surrounding our 1st Christmas away from our home of 12 years. God has blessed us way beyond our comprehension!

2nd Birthday

It is so hard to believe that our little boy is now 2! He had a great time at his birthday party---it was Cars theme, of course. Sisters & Mama made his birthday cake. Children truly are a blessing from the Lord!