celebrate

Summer is a season of celebration in our family, as 3 out of us5 have birthdays,

and then of course, our home nation celebrates its birthday too!

left: Elise and Amy celebrate their 19th(!)  middle: Mark celebrates a few days later  right: July 4th

The birthday candles and the sparklers twinkle in the darkness, and I think about how much joy and wonderful good there is right here in the middle of being a family together. 

These celebrations are mile markers; reminders to look back with thanksgiving, grateful to the God of life, the One Who gives each breath, each smile!  And reminders to look forward with hope, to trust Him for the year ahead, full of unknowns, and full of opportunities to see His hand at work, faithful as the years are long!

center: Michael, Amy and Elise drive off to a day of work at camp   sides: Elise's sparkler photos

18 x's 2

Yesterday we celebrated Amy and Elise's 18th birthday.

 After a yummy breakfast Mark whisked them off 

to the DMV where they each obtained a driver's permit.  

Such an easy process once you're 18.

 Then the rest of us met up to hike down to the base of Snoqualmie Falls,

a majestic spot here in the Northwest.

together with Barbara's sister and nephew at the falls

 God gave us the gift of gorgeous sunshine,

and precious time with loved ones as we hiked,

picnicked together at the top,

and  later shared a delicious birthday dinner and cake.

(Thank you, Judy, for all your love to make it such a special day!)

♥♥♥
We thank God for His gift to us of Amy and Elise.
You two have blessed our lives in countless ways.
We're delighted in each of you, 
and so thankful for every day of every year we've had with you!
The Lord bless and keep you in all the days ahead...
♥♥♥
 

It was also the anniversary of the day Mark asked me to marry him...
21 years ago!

Yes, Mark - I'd say YES all over again!

 ♥

no sweeter mother

There never was a sweeter mother.

Happy Mother's Day...

in memory of my precious mama who loved and nurtured,

guided and prayed for all nine of us.

(I'm the youngest - not yet born in the photo above!)

Mother’s love grows by giving. 

~Charles Lamb

And with thanks to our own precious 3...

who worked to honor me today,

and who bless me with laughter,

insight, hugs, silliness, help, thoughtfulness, challenges, hungry stomachs,

questions, and more laughter every day.

There never was a richer mother.

Wishing every single one of you moms a day of celebration 

in this beautiful gift of motherhood. ♥