Girls Day!

These 3 ladies (from our small group) and I took time to get away from the hustle and bustle of life. We treated ourselves to pedicures and enjoyed a relaxing, soup and dessert, meal before heading home. It was such a special day to connect with these woman, share the joys and challenges of life, all while exchanging much laughter and giggles. So thankful to be on the journey with these ladies and am greatly blessed by their friendship!

Visit with the extended family

We had the opportunity to connect with Uncle Larry, Aunt Jean, my cousin Jay and Grandma Jo. Our visit was lovely and always too short!

Thanks Traeger from refraining from spitting H2O from your mouth for the picture with Auntie Jean.

Ataly making a new friend.

I guess it didn't take long :O)

It was a special surprise to have Jay in town at the same time we were. We're glad it worked out that way!

Bounce House Heaven

My parents knew of this sweet bounce house, among other entertainment, kind of place.

It was a huge hit!

Not even this big slide intimated either one of the kiddos.

Thumbs up!

"I can do it all by myself mom."

All smiles!

Ataly went for it, with squeals, giggles and smiles the whole way down!

Then it was onto another 'house' for a balancing challenge.

No fear and can do attitude!

I even got in on the action.

We even found a hoop..."just my size!"

Lunch date

On our way to a lunch date with Nonnie and Grandpa!

Dad, are we that bad of company :O)?

Troopers

These kiddos are troopers. I am thankful for kiddos who travel well, are super flexible, go with the flow, and display "up for anything" kind of attitudes when we're on the go!

Oops!

I guess I waited a little too long...so she put herself to sleep for nap time.

And she's out!

Clean up in aisle 1

This is evidence of why I typically don't even try to accomplish anything, let alone something crafty, while the kiddos are up. I took 2 steps away from my barrette project to get Ataly something to drink (that she asked for) and found the remainder of my already low paint supply dumped out. I think that little stinker asked for something to drink just to get her hands on the paint...what do you think :O)?

She patiently sat by me while I put the finishing touches on the barrettes. Not exactly the place I thought I would be doing that but it brushed on just fine off the floor.

Mom's creation

Hopefully soon I will be able to tell you who this beautiful new room is for but until then I will leave you with a little teaser.

My mom is amazing and got inspiration from this picture frame...

and created this!

There is a white picture frame in the middle but is blocked out for privacy. I don't think the picture does this room justice. I just love this room.

The color, the cuteness...everything is just perfect!

Reading Buddies

Evidence of God's grace.

Bitter cold temps...many inches of snow...busy schedules...just might be reasons to complain.

However, this winter God has taken care of us each time it snowed despite

bitter cold temps...many inches of snow...busy schedules.

At some point before we needed to back out of our driveway, someone came to save our day, plow us out and took a time out of their busy schedules to serve us!

Each time, I couldn't help but praise God for providing for us in this little but really BIG way that we didn't even ask for!

God is great!

Happy Valentine's Day!

Grandpa and Nana Visit

A fun time was had by all while Grandpa Tim and Nana stayed for the weekend!

Lots of games were played.

Lots of cuddle time was enjoyed.

Traeger ate up all the game time that took place.

The adults went out on a double date and came home to play Nertz until the wee hours of the morning.

Big smiles were seen all weekend....

because these two are amazing and love and serve us in such tangible ways.

Gas Pumping

The youth group had their annual CEYC Matthew 5:16 gas pumping event. It states, "In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father."

An evidence of God's grace from the day...Luke had the opportunity to share God's love with an elderly man who was on his way to the Marshfield Hospital to be with his wife of 65 years who was dying.

Warming up and filling up on pizza after a brisk morning sharing God's love with others.

The kiddos excited about hanging out with the big kids and playing at the youth center.

Go Raiders!

After cheering on the Medford Raider Boys Basketball team, Traeger got to try his hand at announcing.

Watch out Mr. Thurmaier...Traeger will be ready to take over your job soon!

"And starting for the Raiders...."

Toward the end of the game Traeger took it upon himself to start cleaning up under the bleachers. Gross I know, I tried over looking that and focused on his heart. After taking one load out to the garbage he came back in and said, "Guys, I've got a lot of work to do," and was off.

Cookie Cutter Bracelets

I'm always amazed and love to observe the differences between having a boy and a girl. I'm pretty sure only girls think of wearing cookie cutters as bracelets. I don't think it ever crossed Traeger's mind. Interesting...God's design is unique and fantastic!

Playmates

Great playmates!

I think they were off on an adventure...oh, to be a kid again :O)!

Game Time

Playing their version of Guess Who.

The boys have really been into playing Monopoly!

Donut Time.

While the Daddy's were working or at the Men's Retreat, the mommies and kiddos met for donuts...lots of sugar and quality fellowship!

Discoveries.

Drop the pill in and wait for the magic to take place.

Ta Da...a sponge!

Wild, Zany, Crazy Hair/Hat Night!

I admit we didn't have the wildest or the zaniest or the craziest hair or hats...but special nights at Awana sure are fun and bring a little variety to the night!

All ready with hats and my piggy tails for the night.

The girls....

and the boys :O)

Bob Lenz in Town!

Bob Lenz made an appearance in Medford for the second time. He first spoke at the Middle School this year. Later in the evening he shared the gospel message to the Youth Center, while the band rocked out after his talk.

Chelsea, Crystal and Me gearing up for the big night.

(and Bryan sneaking in)

A full house.

open ears.

Holy Spirit working.

decisions made to follow Christ as their Savior.

Bob is such a gifted man...

God uses him in such a real way to reach out and connect with the youth!