can't help but smile...

We've been smiling this week over so many things that have made us glad,

like toasted blueberry bagels,

hot water in the taps,

the luxury of deliciously warm dry clothes tumbling out of a dryer,

text messages and hugs from family,

red, juicy cherries,

and cozy blankets to snuggle under while we catch up on rest.

 Here are a few photos of other things that have made us smile...

Mark's mom generously planned a trip for us ladies to see

the Pacific Northwest Ballet

in an amazing production of Coppelia.

Mom, Mark's sister Amanda, Amy & Elise at the ballet

The music was lovely,

the set and costumes were gorgeous,

and the dancing and acting superb!

I think it was the most FUN ballet I've ever seen!

Thank you, Mom, for the very wonderful treat!

We're smiling over the times we've been able to enjoy the amazing beauty

here in the Pacific Northwest.

We went for a hike on Tuesday, despite the rain and cold,

and loved every minute!

Thank you, Amanda and Marcus, for helping us blaze the trail,

for borrowed shoes to wear,

and for the fun picnic lunch at the end!

How could we keep from smiling in the company of 

our sweet family - a few of Barbara's great-nephews and nieces!

Their little siblings were already in bed - sorry we didn't get more photos,

but you look great in some of the Filipino clothes we brought for you to try on, guys!

And their mom, Serena, made us smile as she

shared her photography skills with us,

taking some shots of our family.

We plan to share more of these with you soon!

Thank you, Serena!!

Michael, Amy & Marcus work on a mini-dam

More smiles as we watch our kids 

enjoy all this breath-taking nature with their cousin.

We hiked down to a beach today,

shivering in the chilly Seattle June,

Amy, Elise and Mark on a very different type of beach!

...smiling at all the green, 

all the fresh air,

the sound of trickling streams and of quiet.

Everywhere, signs of the goodness of God!

Time with more family,

to share about our work,

catch up on their news,

and feast on fabulous home-cooked meals,

enjoying amazing hospitality!

One of Barbara's sisters, Jean, with Amy & Elise

Thank you, Jean and Curt, for all the smiles!

A glad heart makes a cheerful face

Proverbs 15:13

We have every reason to be glad...

every reason to smile!

What's making you smile today?