Tuesday, November 3, 2015

go west

What a sweet joy it was to head west for a little while and see family and friends.
Mark and I tag-teamed to spend time in the Seattle area, 
bringing Michael in the middle for the wedding of one of his closest cousins.

(clockwise:) Michael worked to finish all his homework on the flight, freeing him to enjoy the time!
We loved seeing Mark's mom settling into her cozy new condo on Lake Washington.
Michael takes in the gorgeous view from the rooftop
and we spotted this treasure in the entry way - "our verse" from Ps 126.

 Then precious time with Barbara's family before the wedding 
(thanks so much for opening your home, J&C!)

“He that raises a large family does, indeed, while he lives to observe them, 
stand a broader mark for sorrow; 
but then he stands a broader mark for pleasure too.” 
 – Benjamin Franklin

(clockwise:) And an absolutely beautiful wedding.
The lovely bride relaxes after the photos
Our handsome nephew waits for his bride to enter
Sheer joy!!  
The beautiful mother of the groom with Michael and Mark
Barbara's sweet auntie enjoys the chocolate fountain. 
(You don't look a day older, T!)


After Mark and Michael returned to Dallas,
sweet time with family continued for me...
...an elegant tea with some of my dear sisters,

and just-too-short times with some of my "grands" -
great nieces and nephews who are beyond delightful to be with!
I miss you all. ♥
(and J, you know I'm blogging just for you! ♥)

I'm reminded again of how thankful I am to be in the US right now, and able to be with everyone at this special time.  We're sad that Amy and Elise couldn't join us, but I guess this blog is for you, too, A&E, so you can see some of the faces of the family who missed you. ♥