tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-290534832024-03-07T19:07:53.825-05:00From my perspective......I share what the Lord is teaching me, happenings from day to day, and amusing moments that make me pause and laugh. Come walk with me and catch a glimpse from my perspective...Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09288381628255711401noreply@blogger.comBlogger783125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29053483.post-11725347705280470632017-01-03T02:33:00.001-05:002017-01-03T02:33:57.093-05:00Shutting Down.After blogging for several years, I've decided to indefinitely close this blog down as I've not been able to maintain it like I did in the past. (That's an understatement!) Instead, I would like to guide you over to the website for the ladies paper at my church - <a href="http://www.graceandhonor.org/">http://www.graceandhonor.org/</a>. Over there, I plan to continue my column by writing by-monthly and sharing tidbits from Thailand.<div><br></div><div>I also send out a monthly email update and would love any blog readers to join that list, if you're not on it already. Feel free to leave you email address in the comments as I won't be publishing those comments for this post. </div><div><br></div><div>Blogging has been a sweet experience for me and was always as much for my benefit to be able to look back as for anyone else. Thank you for following my adventures through the years and for rejoicing with me in God's goodness!</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09288381628255711401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29053483.post-25767024450054481912016-09-16T14:38:00.001-04:002016-09-16T14:38:20.890-04:00What Do I See?<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">As I was going through some pictures on my phone, I paused when I came to this one:</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTPF1gsAGNanKdqGtXfTB_t0RlwQ1F89KzTzkaXEimHUeYPn8XNWoJtBgYrJ-eOpI9jNvPY7U3Rms15Q4cJou5HihLASEL1gq7NsdhuYAIQfraWEe5428G7J7MVWU26KWNXDiaDA/s640/blogger-image--567113749.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><font color="#000000"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTPF1gsAGNanKdqGtXfTB_t0RlwQ1F89KzTzkaXEimHUeYPn8XNWoJtBgYrJ-eOpI9jNvPY7U3Rms15Q4cJou5HihLASEL1gq7NsdhuYAIQfraWEe5428G7J7MVWU26KWNXDiaDA/s640/blogger-image--567113749.jpg"></font></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">There's nothing fancy about it, but this picture communicates so much to me and brings a smile to my face.</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I see a compassionate man, willing to step in and help me out with the breakfast dishes, after a very busy week. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I also see two eager learners, something I don't always notice or take the time to notice!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I see a loving church family, graciously providing for the needs of their missionaries.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I see bright sunlight streaming in, reminding me of the blessing and beauty of summertime in Pennsylvania.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Praise God from Whom all blessings flow!</span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09288381628255711401noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29053483.post-82868833317452942532016-08-19T10:10:00.002-04:002016-08-19T10:17:57.563-04:00I'm still here!I'm pulling this blog out again after what has to be a record summer in terms of being busy. After returning to the States in mid-May, we began traveling up and down the East Coast for two months as well as squeezing in some family time with both of our families. We enjoyed the time visiting several supporting churches and traveling around, and now we're enjoying some time to be at home until mid-October when we return to our other home in Thailand.<br />
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So now some pictures (of course!)... <br />
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I love this picture. Paul's eyes are so expressive! </div>
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As much as I want to think Ellie is staring into my eyes and thinking wonderful thoughts about her mom, she's probably really thinking, "This yogurt is so yummy! You should try some, Mom."</div>
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We spent a LOT of time seeing this view.</div>
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Playgrounds have been our go-to place. Big thanks to whoever invented the swing!</div>
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While we were in Michigan we bought a science museum membership on a whim, and it has turned out to be a fantastic idea. We recouped our cost within three museums and the kids have really enjoyed the "hands-on" part!</div>
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Nat and I also celebrated our 6th anniversary with a quick trip to Cape Cod. I'm so thankful for the wonderful husband God has given to me. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09288381628255711401noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29053483.post-44655696651490373792016-05-04T05:05:00.001-04:002016-05-04T05:05:31.379-04:00Life From The Camera.<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">We recently took a trip to get some paperwork done, so along the way we stopped at a fun coffee shop. Paul and Ellie love the fish pond, so what better way to enjoy it than from a rocking horse!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiu2ouJnfXes1075vAWsFw7pbXucRN46jz2zo8q5Oy0DeYSMORyFzwUTtIEsIBmFnhzeNisoW9zTJW8lAVPdtwP634xin228MC9-mXBm2IjpcG6wfqMMhba6GwUJQPNAREvynMZg/s640/blogger-image--1614445157.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiu2ouJnfXes1075vAWsFw7pbXucRN46jz2zo8q5Oy0DeYSMORyFzwUTtIEsIBmFnhzeNisoW9zTJW8lAVPdtwP634xin228MC9-mXBm2IjpcG6wfqMMhba6GwUJQPNAREvynMZg/s640/blogger-image--1614445157.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Ever since we came to Thailand, we've consistently played at one particular play place. It is so hard for me to believe we were at this same place two years ago with just Paul. Now Ellie enjoys running around and playing with him!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwmZJ8Psipzjo4W-pLCo8VFYZhQ5edkXlcS99q88ZtnJr1IuRDSedOfA5HENbsC4E5h_Iudubp6omm71YQS3fl20-pGY15_mF11aXkTXbB-7kzWuymYtEWkaG3ppq1ky_N3ZzLDQ/s640/blogger-image-329691440.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwmZJ8Psipzjo4W-pLCo8VFYZhQ5edkXlcS99q88ZtnJr1IuRDSedOfA5HENbsC4E5h_Iudubp6omm71YQS3fl20-pGY15_mF11aXkTXbB-7kzWuymYtEWkaG3ppq1ky_N3ZzLDQ/s640/blogger-image-329691440.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We found a restaurant/bakery that also happens to be a bird sanctuary. This was an extremely aggressive bird and completely entertaining for my kids. :-)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQX-GeMQXV4Gv3kYFMuiFwdcI2JmbJVT4W69fNsF95usvdSta1jCRkfnIWcsNhwj1eqDWunljp_4cAtsCRAlJLwM73Qxt_YsjE1fuPJ0drdIayriE5pnN-18fECV0amQLH8sk3Ng/s640/blogger-image-1143912452.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQX-GeMQXV4Gv3kYFMuiFwdcI2JmbJVT4W69fNsF95usvdSta1jCRkfnIWcsNhwj1eqDWunljp_4cAtsCRAlJLwM73Qxt_YsjE1fuPJ0drdIayriE5pnN-18fECV0amQLH8sk3Ng/s640/blogger-image-1143912452.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The other day I was driving to the Golden Triangle to buy a few things and I was once again awed by the beauty of this country. Now that the burning season is over, the mountains have returned in all their glory and truly display God's amazing handiwork. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq0pb4nYUXhxtk4a0lnD1RQvRQWfjafUGLIaH1SqDtqfOlMeRg26FyD9oLmR32yM-DYzYc5ZQDQSrcPaXeMwrwJ9Qc9Z8cnlmJMPqGzVD0bUSbm9bbxfqleeNobjFezDRcOict3w/s640/blogger-image--1945591603.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq0pb4nYUXhxtk4a0lnD1RQvRQWfjafUGLIaH1SqDtqfOlMeRg26FyD9oLmR32yM-DYzYc5ZQDQSrcPaXeMwrwJ9Qc9Z8cnlmJMPqGzVD0bUSbm9bbxfqleeNobjFezDRcOict3w/s640/blogger-image--1945591603.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Today we met up with some friends for lunch and chose a particular cafe because it has a little place for the kids to play. Our two had a blast romping around with other kids their age, something they don't get to do too often!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvvFE-y_pw4lADXAGzKcGZDJbvO_60e4n9dL6bATg89VnzapEXGzts3q3cwSKwgsp-NKQvtYPruracr94lkWI-OjjqA12ebQDsx1APiY5OtQkutto8Qi0PRWd_lhXIsN62f3ZtYg/s640/blogger-image-1530959240.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvvFE-y_pw4lADXAGzKcGZDJbvO_60e4n9dL6bATg89VnzapEXGzts3q3cwSKwgsp-NKQvtYPruracr94lkWI-OjjqA12ebQDsx1APiY5OtQkutto8Qi0PRWd_lhXIsN62f3ZtYg/s640/blogger-image-1530959240.jpg"></a></div></div></div></div></div><div><br></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09288381628255711401noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29053483.post-46303354059349049672016-04-23T04:39:00.001-04:002016-04-23T04:43:28.326-04:00Summertime Fun.<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The glorious summer days of Thailand are upon us, and this year we made a new addition to our family: a pool!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdwUyJketXQ_kcCWpceJ31ZLlAW_EMuoIkpB7w_0xeb6xKAqJjsqGr5Ks88XnqHm0AuH5XUcNGewu8X3pTBPyemQRcal2fVFed4a9zKPRzFGsnBHUaYbsU458isdIhokqg8YIMDQ/s640/blogger-image--1915108160.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdwUyJketXQ_kcCWpceJ31ZLlAW_EMuoIkpB7w_0xeb6xKAqJjsqGr5Ks88XnqHm0AuH5XUcNGewu8X3pTBPyemQRcal2fVFed4a9zKPRzFGsnBHUaYbsU458isdIhokqg8YIMDQ/s640/blogger-image--1915108160.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Although this pool is only a week old, the sand pit, bikes, and balls are almost a distant memory. Within minutes of Paul waking up, he is quick to mention water in the hopes of immediately going swimming. :-)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Of course the kids have spent hours playing and splashing around in the water. For the most part they really do play well together even though the picture above makes it look like Ellie is giving Paul a thump on the head!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09288381628255711401noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29053483.post-26084620777623078712016-03-19T03:38:00.000-04:002016-03-19T04:37:31.119-04:00Appreciation.<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I appreciate many things: iced coffee, fresh produce, a clean floor, time to read a book, and more. But lately I've been appreciating my kids. (It <i>is</i> a tad ironic that I'm writing about my kids as I sit at a coffee shop, taking a quick breather by myself. Did I mention I appreciate irony?!) </span><br />
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">The last week or so we've been in the thick of potty training. Paul has caught on to the concept of going #1, but is still (ahem) very clueless about going #2. Several messes later, and we're scratching our heads hopelessly all the while praying for some break through. </span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Ellie has been very hesitant about the potty, so the party was real this morning as we hooted and cheered her on. Let me tell you, chocolate chips are worthy of going potty! As we've pushed through this week, I thought about how my kids are growing up... learning new skills... developing into the little people God intends them to be. I have the joy of watching them grow and encouraging them to keep growing.</span><br />
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">But as I've been cheering them on, I've also had a verse running through my mind that has been convicting:</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Proverbs 29:15 - "<i>... a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame.</i>"</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">The other day one of my children needed correction and to be honest, I didn't want to take the time to deal with it. But this verse came to the forefront of my mind and I realized leaving my child to do their own thing would bring shame. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">A while ago a friend and I were texting about child training and she said, "</span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">You can't let [my child] win. [My child] is giving you ready made opportunities to teach [my child] to obey. The sting of correction has to be worse than the pleasure of [my child's] disobedience in order for it to work. By God's grace you can and later when [my child] is older you'll be glad you fought these battles now."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">That conversation was months ago, but I've referenced it often as I try to teach and train my children. None of us are perfect, and some days I feel like a big failure and mess. But then when I see my children grow in an area they've struggled to obey in, I'm encouraged to keep pressing on and not give up. Too much is at stake!</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09288381628255711401noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29053483.post-32327582800629492072016-03-13T08:51:00.000-04:002016-03-13T08:51:05.666-04:00Gentle Pruning.I had the wind knocked out of my sails earlier today. Sometimes communication is a blessing and sometimes... it's not. My spirits were low, Nat is sick, and Paul had a potty training disaster (think walls smeared brown). But as we started our service, the first song I glanced at was an immediate comfort:<br />
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<i>In times like these you need a Saviour,</i></div>
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<i>In times like these you need an anchor;</i></div>
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<i>Be very sure, Be very sure,</i></div>
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<i>Your anchor holds and grips the Solid Rock!</i></div>
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<i>This Rock is Jesus, Yes, He's the One,</i></div>
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<i>This Rock is Jesus, The only One;</i></div>
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<i>Be very sure, Be very sure,</i></div>
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<i>Your anchor holds and grips the Solid Rock.</i></div>
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As if that wasn't enough, the next song prodded a little further:</div>
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<i>All for Jesus! All for Jesus!</i></div>
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<i>All my being's ransomed pow'rs.</i></div>
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<i>All my tho'ts and words and doings,</i></div>
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<i>All my days and all my hours.</i></div>
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<i>All for Jesus! All for Jesus! </i></div>
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<i>All my days and all my hours.</i></div>
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<i style="background-color: rgba(255 , 255 , 255 , 0); font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">All for Jesus! All for Jesus! </i></div>
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<i style="background-color: rgba(255 , 255 , 255 , 0); font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">All my days and all my hours.</i></div>
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<i style="background-color: rgba(255 , 255 , 255 , 0); font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">Let my hands perform His bidding,</i></div>
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<i style="background-color: rgba(255 , 255 , 255 , 0); font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">Let my feet run in His ways;</i></div>
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<i style="background-color: rgba(255 , 255 , 255 , 0); font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">Let my eyes see Jesus only,</i></div>
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<i style="background-color: rgba(255 , 255 , 255 , 0); font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">Let my lips speak forth His praise.</i></div>
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<i style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">All for Jesus! All for Jesus!</i></div>
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<i style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Let my lips speak forth His praise.</i></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">And then as only the Lord can do, the message we listened to was spot on and just what I needed to hear. I love how God is intentional about meeting my specific needs. I don't necessarily enjoy going through some discomfort, but I know it's for my good and for His Glory. I'm grateful to say the Lord brought me out of a slump, reminded me of the grace that has been bestowed on me, and encouraged me to step back in the fight. Praise the Lord for His Gentle pruning.</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09288381628255711401noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29053483.post-35799410535735249912016-01-20T01:43:00.001-05:002016-01-20T01:43:16.277-05:00Our Days.<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhedgu-CSHVNa1SiFJw17grnCf7Lxl6IS51F_77tCvI0sS5TJiFuUMoCYMzmaKHSqC64V-mKA9Ny0OmukADYdR70l2e_F9bLn_tyYJtEqWCl7q4B7j2PeZG4_pfgVkx21agxju-qQ/s640/blogger-image--2134339301.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Here's a quick peek into our lives from the last several days... </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhedgu-CSHVNa1SiFJw17grnCf7Lxl6IS51F_77tCvI0sS5TJiFuUMoCYMzmaKHSqC64V-mKA9Ny0OmukADYdR70l2e_F9bLn_tyYJtEqWCl7q4B7j2PeZG4_pfgVkx21agxju-qQ/s640/blogger-image--2134339301.jpg"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I've been enjoying doing some daily scripture writing and I love the little nuggets that come out as I read and write. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5r8U1PsmY_S4OsXFHpT8uFngjHImSHmNkB-q24i_oP6bzd72yXIkCyU6iXOsM-czxMOnb9JaisK1CAmypC6aHRKC8eilJ8IR5UzKQ3ny31smb4mkjn-qcDjcDeXM1ekg2ihdRJA/s640/blogger-image--613668097.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5r8U1PsmY_S4OsXFHpT8uFngjHImSHmNkB-q24i_oP6bzd72yXIkCyU6iXOsM-czxMOnb9JaisK1CAmypC6aHRKC8eilJ8IR5UzKQ3ny31smb4mkjn-qcDjcDeXM1ekg2ihdRJA/s640/blogger-image--613668097.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We've been (slowly) working on our little plot of ground out front. Last week we had some dirt delivered, but we have to break up the clumps. The other day our neighbor boys came over to help! Next step is to get some sod down.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE4bQRylMpdIo6udHv_XXBDkbA77J5aNS8g9LOjyBV2btx3ASXyUt9gi9A8Rar94A2FnXiGK_aTcCnfzOFenXlWD7YMMZE5FKMmc9XIZ1j-Gz9HATWY_aHLHJ-dh_UvH5WCLaHwQ/s640/blogger-image-1894030694.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE4bQRylMpdIo6udHv_XXBDkbA77J5aNS8g9LOjyBV2btx3ASXyUt9gi9A8Rar94A2FnXiGK_aTcCnfzOFenXlWD7YMMZE5FKMmc9XIZ1j-Gz9HATWY_aHLHJ-dh_UvH5WCLaHwQ/s640/blogger-image-1894030694.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Hardly a day goes by that we are not visiting the playground. The kids love to play on the equipment and the local school kids love to play with Paul and Ellie. :-)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7DmpElFrAJ52DsD_FqBXiZ-wntj-07hM6eeAaZ7KMvULt5feBPmUdl3YmEFCcjMf_lGqzfwkDGWAkKAYx_fAVTxNzfCFTZuqWyC8K0G2HQzFCdXsmzbBz2a2DptHEF-9a9h_Mnw/s640/blogger-image--668011393.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7DmpElFrAJ52DsD_FqBXiZ-wntj-07hM6eeAaZ7KMvULt5feBPmUdl3YmEFCcjMf_lGqzfwkDGWAkKAYx_fAVTxNzfCFTZuqWyC8K0G2HQzFCdXsmzbBz2a2DptHEF-9a9h_Mnw/s640/blogger-image--668011393.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The other day I found this rather humorous as I was waiting to make a u-turn. This was the third bus to do the u-turn and he did much better than the first two! Anything goes around here. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGpO-mfVe4AiiVxo5Rbqd5U6A4suXgHd7Ff3E7hpW_bEiPFu-exy8kRdQJB4EzDDUW8U7vEB1dxliRehhbTbCJafe6kAlgpxPyZx6u4xrbjMnraFTFhKlFx2OVP85f495rVUruAg/s640/blogger-image-1537396495.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGpO-mfVe4AiiVxo5Rbqd5U6A4suXgHd7Ff3E7hpW_bEiPFu-exy8kRdQJB4EzDDUW8U7vEB1dxliRehhbTbCJafe6kAlgpxPyZx6u4xrbjMnraFTFhKlFx2OVP85f495rVUruAg/s640/blogger-image-1537396495.jpg"></a></div><br></div></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">My teacher and I were studying Thai out on our porch on Tuesday when Ellie came out looking like a cowgirl!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOp7GFC1AKbqxwmZ_Ug3qRbXruNDImBXBPHkEEB5k-B6_raiTsUxqWrZjcQY6lS8Vmn_WQtBRqxN77y5AAobsS6lr2JO2XbCqblMQ1ycgqLtXfY0JhHU1CKwC2YYGN5qFIhxCdgA/s640/blogger-image-566492023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOp7GFC1AKbqxwmZ_Ug3qRbXruNDImBXBPHkEEB5k-B6_raiTsUxqWrZjcQY6lS8Vmn_WQtBRqxN77y5AAobsS6lr2JO2XbCqblMQ1ycgqLtXfY0JhHU1CKwC2YYGN5qFIhxCdgA/s640/blogger-image-566492023.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We went to the playground today and it just so happened to be recess for local school kids. Everyone loves Ellie!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Jd6rfMA04vMYnYYhCFPI3VcwjpwX5VMhB-zj91TaaFuY8AvuswV_INejDegahUYJsI11ZRCNP_P4FC8TldnZxW0kmSz2DHWW3Jn07QmggYtyssEwR1gy2eXeQltqpkV4QCbYpg/s640/blogger-image--18877429.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Jd6rfMA04vMYnYYhCFPI3VcwjpwX5VMhB-zj91TaaFuY8AvuswV_INejDegahUYJsI11ZRCNP_P4FC8TldnZxW0kmSz2DHWW3Jn07QmggYtyssEwR1gy2eXeQltqpkV4QCbYpg/s640/blogger-image--18877429.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Meanwhile Paul enjoyed playing ball with some boys... Or running away from them. ;-)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_wklTtgVlPkVGk_HfQai0-4ne74sBaiTiiUoTYrClCzPjwoeRHd7hz40fPn1rbEeKa0yBB4j5HEwm-M-k84XMKc4jsS7jATIn3Fboo0tgzAhD1YhfIAnLr3XVXqCLrr5c8ecGaw/s640/blogger-image--1110379461.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_wklTtgVlPkVGk_HfQai0-4ne74sBaiTiiUoTYrClCzPjwoeRHd7hz40fPn1rbEeKa0yBB4j5HEwm-M-k84XMKc4jsS7jATIn3Fboo0tgzAhD1YhfIAnLr3XVXqCLrr5c8ecGaw/s640/blogger-image--1110379461.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">So cute! Thai kids do a great job taking care of my little people and loving on them.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU92RXnQd1WKOrxSdJZe0jlA3B_-xKz5ab8cNqHlAjxZJ2FECaI5a4_nKRt1QVKPpLby-Qzr_TJvORiOaW8RxAcfdqv9w_TK5ty3PWl_ypumkSxcee9QX1uK-HO-ESZMYHsr9XyQ/s640/blogger-image-2019420617.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU92RXnQd1WKOrxSdJZe0jlA3B_-xKz5ab8cNqHlAjxZJ2FECaI5a4_nKRt1QVKPpLby-Qzr_TJvORiOaW8RxAcfdqv9w_TK5ty3PWl_ypumkSxcee9QX1uK-HO-ESZMYHsr9XyQ/s640/blogger-image-2019420617.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We found a new restaurant here in our town. As in, only 3 miles away! Coffee shop, great smoothies, Thai and western food, and lovely ambience means we'll be back! I'm so glad we didn't have to drive 45 minutes away like we usually do. The smoothies were kid-approved and we walked away with no spills, no broken dishes, and calm children. That's a good restaurant visit in my book. :-)</div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09288381628255711401noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29053483.post-19827210769235194312016-01-17T02:52:00.002-05:002016-01-17T02:52:33.375-05:00Victory In Jesus.An old, sweet hymn ministered to my heart today. Perhaps in part because we had a friend accompanying on the guitar. All of our singing is done without any music, so the guitar playing was a wonderful treat. But oh the words to this hymn! So familiar, and yet so fresh. The wonder of salvation is all about Him, because He is the one who sought me. Praise the Lord for Victory In Jesus!<br />
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<i>I heard an old, old story, How a Saviour came from Glory,</i></div>
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<i>How He gave His life on Calvary To save a wretch like me;</i></div>
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<i>I heard about His groaning, Of His precious blood's atoning,</i></div>
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<i>Then I repented of my sins And won the victory.</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>O victory in Jesus, </i><i>my Saviour, forever,</i></div>
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<i>He sought me and bought me, </i><i>With His redeeming blood;</i></div>
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<i>He loved me ere I knew Him </i><i>And all my love is due Him,</i></div>
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<i>He plunged me to victory, </i><i>Beneath the cleansing flood.</i></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09288381628255711401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29053483.post-32259559518115813202016-01-13T00:31:00.001-05:002016-01-15T01:29:43.317-05:00Family Time.<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">We try hard to keep Wednesday as our family day. Even then, something may come up. This past Wednesday was no exception, but by 10 AM, we were ready for to go. </span></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisJi8u9ApGfieZ0aK0212ZCVB31uS5E4vULlNp9BFltOmBczgSZa8b4VsSN4yolGJkpbC1sr0QESWLZ6GR2iv5JCgKvfv6SRidZsh8yH6Nv3C9dYKtEJSLfDseRh59F3_yZhYwBA/s640/blogger-image-122026669.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisJi8u9ApGfieZ0aK0212ZCVB31uS5E4vULlNp9BFltOmBczgSZa8b4VsSN4yolGJkpbC1sr0QESWLZ6GR2iv5JCgKvfv6SRidZsh8yH6Nv3C9dYKtEJSLfDseRh59F3_yZhYwBA/s640/blogger-image-122026669.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Our first stop was a strawberry farm Nat recently saw and wanted to check out. The fields were pretty, and the lake out front with the mountains in the back made for a second glance.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVa958vuC7LYjZEt46TLOd_IJpR8n1rgBppdGAkXyI84Ho5PDhER03wSLRSb_NDzzAtPb6kBl2hSvSKbO5Et8TMDAA19EECw2Tiae2iprdO5F7osBfMUOZaaL8Mw9MIIC-ZkImhQ/s640/blogger-image--479278275.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVa958vuC7LYjZEt46TLOd_IJpR8n1rgBppdGAkXyI84Ho5PDhER03wSLRSb_NDzzAtPb6kBl2hSvSKbO5Et8TMDAA19EECw2Tiae2iprdO5F7osBfMUOZaaL8Mw9MIIC-ZkImhQ/s640/blogger-image--479278275.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Paul took one look at this tractor and knew he had to check it out. Fascination with farm equipment is in his blood!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1vm4jyMmjygqhLP-btEv2nmoFCXL9pEzwqrnse0IprB4TC94fLb5QWLzu2fq8XUJLbU68kui3muENOdqCzbhykPE2bJHxCSzFh0OQQK4gepuYpAje_rwm4ShpbxtMQNHQnr7fjA/s640/blogger-image--73580568.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1vm4jyMmjygqhLP-btEv2nmoFCXL9pEzwqrnse0IprB4TC94fLb5QWLzu2fq8XUJLbU68kui3muENOdqCzbhykPE2bJHxCSzFh0OQQK4gepuYpAje_rwm4ShpbxtMQNHQnr7fjA/s640/blogger-image--73580568.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Of course we had to stop to let our little celebrity have her picture taken. :-)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_496gyl4-OIF4-xIVPNR61alYwxvElcDM_YL5QQpyi3nTZiMtRNLlAURKm-4dOSS9LWRXDSZcAW_PE71U-8tRhkO28FTWikNGC7YeRuDih8Jfgbz2bHPiNF3BE9BiYJAPSZjuKg/s640/blogger-image--1782342231.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_496gyl4-OIF4-xIVPNR61alYwxvElcDM_YL5QQpyi3nTZiMtRNLlAURKm-4dOSS9LWRXDSZcAW_PE71U-8tRhkO28FTWikNGC7YeRuDih8Jfgbz2bHPiNF3BE9BiYJAPSZjuKg/s640/blogger-image--1782342231.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif5wZJ1mGMk4-zV9hKGjPSp8WFnU05dQuvsX-tKxrhR0w58TDRcwZnDk8haaz_K6LGEGhbSrUPy1F5VMSTWR2m-YzcjaPLyCNCo_kuWlc5Iul1FIym8Lv-QUoIKcWMNbnC0QcEUw/s640/blogger-image-2007852971.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif5wZJ1mGMk4-zV9hKGjPSp8WFnU05dQuvsX-tKxrhR0w58TDRcwZnDk8haaz_K6LGEGhbSrUPy1F5VMSTWR2m-YzcjaPLyCNCo_kuWlc5Iul1FIym8Lv-QUoIKcWMNbnC0QcEUw/s640/blogger-image-2007852971.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Amazingly enough, this place is also a resort! So if staying in a strawberry house is your thing... Here you go!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIT9jeVekvee3axWn5_qumBBRfOWb_CLeczehc9q6HrC8V5ry-ntKkKcqzfB-d_zm3iaobqPNHEvQTQMBUAwNUGgMYStU0_9dL0GHc1wSp03V-u6S34v1wcHmRX_5VP21DnXLS_A/s640/blogger-image-218073671.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIT9jeVekvee3axWn5_qumBBRfOWb_CLeczehc9q6HrC8V5ry-ntKkKcqzfB-d_zm3iaobqPNHEvQTQMBUAwNUGgMYStU0_9dL0GHc1wSp03V-u6S34v1wcHmRX_5VP21DnXLS_A/s640/blogger-image-218073671.jpg"></a></div><br></div>The mountains fascinate me. Such mystery and intrigue...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbArL03ZBzyZHTNxClUJpg7Wf5XOsRHcjiqXxXpGZJA0DWWUrTiLBoGiI2UkmpfjY3YBxdgl-xuLWEPIouMl_3qaLRqlTPxFqgp10RS8Fghu8d8Ft6A59Jll8IPBIEo9orK6m_kQ/s640/blogger-image--1067528172.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbArL03ZBzyZHTNxClUJpg7Wf5XOsRHcjiqXxXpGZJA0DWWUrTiLBoGiI2UkmpfjY3YBxdgl-xuLWEPIouMl_3qaLRqlTPxFqgp10RS8Fghu8d8Ft6A59Jll8IPBIEo9orK6m_kQ/s640/blogger-image--1067528172.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0v9xidOegRNVvyxZtlZiZsxhidvWlEzGoGwlmqMEROtNXOCPELsFSe6Ff0bwRyk-yz2uchemdKv6iHXBuvvpNbfmDG7YmHDSEqWH6LRjUfIx9pB8-GNCMA5uijUcEBWwzTtmSWw/s640/blogger-image--1066744865.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0v9xidOegRNVvyxZtlZiZsxhidvWlEzGoGwlmqMEROtNXOCPELsFSe6Ff0bwRyk-yz2uchemdKv6iHXBuvvpNbfmDG7YmHDSEqWH6LRjUfIx9pB8-GNCMA5uijUcEBWwzTtmSWw/s640/blogger-image--1066744865.jpg"></a></div><br></div>All in all, it was a wonderful, refreshing day!</div><br></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09288381628255711401noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29053483.post-6777308574122574422016-01-09T08:24:00.001-05:002016-01-09T08:24:20.324-05:00Visual Antics.I thought I would give another picture update of what life has been like around here! Starring Paul and Ellie, of course...<div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhJ5muZq4SZCrSo3pg-eblhcZxzoTSpUlJGxF-_fuoiDsLnPftZ9fG1wt6JvmJtJRYORJNMJrnsMBTNzZpl0gJWYnqFH6iARAJIyT-bC6vrcgFM3QiNb1rS_BH6hysCtynGWfwnA/s640/blogger-image--637015700.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhJ5muZq4SZCrSo3pg-eblhcZxzoTSpUlJGxF-_fuoiDsLnPftZ9fG1wt6JvmJtJRYORJNMJrnsMBTNzZpl0gJWYnqFH6iARAJIyT-bC6vrcgFM3QiNb1rS_BH6hysCtynGWfwnA/s640/blogger-image--637015700.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Ellie is the new owner of a little bike her size! (Paul seems to think he is partial owner.)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPrHHvpPJnFJMpZt4cpu1ZR4AAdgdZ8pUoRMUIO6UA8Wa5JIGqzSlwDDKX5mXVrii-9MN8aakPKka4uR2UOKgm2PdNrjP7LkDHjLV1W6YlOIy7H9WNUqfpbRvMl1UQf_Q_c8MsZA/s640/blogger-image-130161896.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPrHHvpPJnFJMpZt4cpu1ZR4AAdgdZ8pUoRMUIO6UA8Wa5JIGqzSlwDDKX5mXVrii-9MN8aakPKka4uR2UOKgm2PdNrjP7LkDHjLV1W6YlOIy7H9WNUqfpbRvMl1UQf_Q_c8MsZA/s640/blogger-image-130161896.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The first sunrise of 2016 was stunning! Actually almost every morning offers a spectacular show, but unfortunately a camera just can't capture what the human eye can see. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpEbemL69SN_m2_K3hFsOQQRnqEjaNNBd_InFrPniuSLFJGVvourwIN7aNB_dQ_aEOvBRMK_keoEI7rTelom9OR73cowndzAR-umioUnEsX2ulQgG8LHTeYFUw-ZPeyGFYW-vPJg/s640/blogger-image--1555733849.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpEbemL69SN_m2_K3hFsOQQRnqEjaNNBd_InFrPniuSLFJGVvourwIN7aNB_dQ_aEOvBRMK_keoEI7rTelom9OR73cowndzAR-umioUnEsX2ulQgG8LHTeYFUw-ZPeyGFYW-vPJg/s640/blogger-image--1555733849.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Paul thought this was a great place to eat his morning snack, and Ellie did too. It's so sweet to watch these two do things together.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT7_tSeqSgEb8sJU0yWZiw8DwJpAY7r_EE1jr0lknpvuFyAh4-IYsl7K2_rgK6EgeLMIPUj0mW45TTGYMdxS7GTKJ3NBJXNLPMG7FapfycQnvcDTOYaAf8wGSsdB1ZJpMKdOAABg/s640/blogger-image-123115284.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT7_tSeqSgEb8sJU0yWZiw8DwJpAY7r_EE1jr0lknpvuFyAh4-IYsl7K2_rgK6EgeLMIPUj0mW45TTGYMdxS7GTKJ3NBJXNLPMG7FapfycQnvcDTOYaAf8wGSsdB1ZJpMKdOAABg/s640/blogger-image-123115284.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We got a laugh out of this one. One of the men Nat is working with received two boxes from Operation Christmas Child. Since his kids are older, he gave them to us for our kids! From America to Thailand, and currently on the way to another country now. :-)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga3tmu58Iz7M2lK3fp8JovV5D3-aZxLhkZZl9v8ZCPpM6J2LKoLdmzuErOQAXVJ2YZ-xQbyryc8JLc26RjzzKOdbw9zE6GbWWktSLFhOVIaQYLGKDUYJOrigPQQLW8cSWMVWebcA/s640/blogger-image-1095711076.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga3tmu58Iz7M2lK3fp8JovV5D3-aZxLhkZZl9v8ZCPpM6J2LKoLdmzuErOQAXVJ2YZ-xQbyryc8JLc26RjzzKOdbw9zE6GbWWktSLFhOVIaQYLGKDUYJOrigPQQLW8cSWMVWebcA/s640/blogger-image-1095711076.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Ellie is definitely watching her older brother and following in his steps - both good and bad. She figured she could stand on the fence too.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdYMX9oU3NqkWgwIH9l6CL0PHtvh2EDERe2yMGHzmiakOtPeMejjJBSodUqYc3AY0JfE5pBN4SXMlntaeir2zX_QpAPi7XLxSV45do2iQJ8lEo8bl-z1A__CLOYVzDgdnWIfWpxA/s640/blogger-image--1347455398.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdYMX9oU3NqkWgwIH9l6CL0PHtvh2EDERe2yMGHzmiakOtPeMejjJBSodUqYc3AY0JfE5pBN4SXMlntaeir2zX_QpAPi7XLxSV45do2iQJ8lEo8bl-z1A__CLOYVzDgdnWIfWpxA/s640/blogger-image--1347455398.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">While Nat got his hair cut, this sweet lady entertained the kids, mainly by giving them little tangerines.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBd4zDoHvIQFFsnRM47fZ0H0-V_lVbr7HLxZz2qq5X1jkm3zw7RSsgGVnMsYGzz2XcKZh6eMnmiyHheQD1k5FLUTVAoJ62MMneHLk5HEFdqp3amcO4tZoHl1IogAXkpKSEJ2QV6A/s640/blogger-image-758276212.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBd4zDoHvIQFFsnRM47fZ0H0-V_lVbr7HLxZz2qq5X1jkm3zw7RSsgGVnMsYGzz2XcKZh6eMnmiyHheQD1k5FLUTVAoJ62MMneHLk5HEFdqp3amcO4tZoHl1IogAXkpKSEJ2QV6A/s640/blogger-image-758276212.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Thirty minutes later, and the kids started to get restless. Running off steam on the barber's front porch was a great solution! </div></div></div></div></div></div><br></div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09288381628255711401noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29053483.post-22334979367600136112016-01-03T03:05:00.002-05:002016-01-03T03:05:40.533-05:00Unchanging Grace.Sweet words are found in the old hymn, "The Solid Rock" and ministered to my heart this morning:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>When darkness veils His lovely face,</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>I rest on His unchanging grace;</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>In every high and stormy gale,</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>My anchor holds within the veil.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
When the storms of life come (not if, but when!), sometimes I feel alone. I'm not wrestling with a particular struggle or trial right now, but I suppose that's why the words of this song captivated me. At times, darkness <i>does</i> hide His face. But His grace doesn't change. Ever. Isn't that precious?! That's what I'm thinking about today ~ the amazing grace of my God.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09288381628255711401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29053483.post-29058889233239886492016-01-01T01:31:00.001-05:002016-01-01T01:47:24.217-05:00Happy New Year!<div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">There's something so fresh about a new year, and I do believe this is the most excited I've been over January 1st in a really long time. I am not a to-do list, goal setting type of person. That would be my husband. :-) But I've actually set some goals in a few areas of my life and I even wrote them down! That right there is a major accomplishment for me. (It helps having a cute journal given by a sweet friend!) </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">So now I'm exited to see some of these goals accomplished throughout the year. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I should do a quick review from the last month, though. </span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">We put our Christmas decorations up the day after Thanksgiving, and that really gave a festive feel to the house! </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">My mom left in the beginning of December, after a lovely month-long visit. Immediately after she left, we enjoyed lots of cool weather. Figures! </span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Poor Mom was pretty warm when she was here. </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">We've decided to stop telling people when it's "cool" here, because we've adapted and now have a new definition of cool! </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Wednesday is our family day, and recently we have really enjoyed taking some scenic drives around the different mountains in our area. This past Wednesday we stumbled upon a resort and restaurant on a river with gorgeous views all around. The cashew nut chicken was fabulous and the creative handiwork of our God was incredible. What a blessing to enjoy living in this beautiful country.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">And now? Now it's a new day, new month, and new year. Praise God for new beginnings! </span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09288381628255711401noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29053483.post-31129696705862860512015-11-22T04:39:00.000-05:002015-11-22T04:39:25.800-05:00Joy.<div style="background-color: white; font-family: serif;">
Some Sundays I have a really hard time remembering that it is Sunday. Today was one of those days. During my quiet time, I begged the Lord to give me that "joy" in serving Jesus. Admittedly, my joy was lacking the last day or so. What changed? Not God. No, it was definitely me that moved.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: serif;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: serif;">
As we started our service, I sang the first hymn with one eye on the hymn book and one eye on two reluctantly-seated children. Going through the motions, you know? But then my glance fell upon the hymn on the opposite page and when Nat asked me for a favorite, I said "Once For All". </div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: serif;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: serif;">
As we sang, the words ministered to my heart:</div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: serif;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: serif;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Free from the law, O happy condition,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Jesus has bled and there is remission,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Cursed by the law and bruised by the fall,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Grace </b>hath redeemed us once for all.</div>
<br />
<div class="chorus" style="background-color: white; font-family: serif; font-style: italic; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="chorus" style="background-color: white; font-family: serif; font-style: italic; text-align: center;">
Refrain</div>
<div class="chorus" style="background-color: white; font-family: serif; font-style: italic;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Once for all, O sinner, receive it,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Once for all, O brother, believe it;</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Cling to the cross, the burden will fall,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Christ hath redeemed us once for all.</div>
<br />
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Now we are free, there’s no condemnation,</div>
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Jesus provides a perfect salvation.</div>
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“Come unto Me,” O hear His sweet call,</div>
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Come, and He saves us once for all.</div>
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“Children of God,” O glorious calling,</div>
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Surely His grace will keep us from falling;</div>
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Passing from death to life at His call;</div>
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Blessed salvation once for all.</div>
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After we finished singing this song, my mom chose "What A Friend We Have In Jesus" - a song very dear to my heart. The Lord was answering my prayer as my perspective slowly shifted from my bad attitude to what He has done for me! The things of this earth tend to fade away whenever I turn my gaze to Calvary. We finished our service out with a message on the grace of God and by the time it was over, the joy was back! Praise God. How good and patient He is with me.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09288381628255711401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29053483.post-35399856161883369892015-11-01T00:01:00.000-04:002015-11-01T00:01:00.366-04:00Amazing Thailand!Prior to getting married, I lived in Thailand for a year working with some missionaries. When I first returned to the States after that year, all I could talk about was Thailand. I didn't realize how <i>much</i> I was talking about Thailand until a family member said, "Umm, Thailand is all you ever talk about."<br />
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That first visit was a long time ago (over 8 years ago!) and since then I have come to love this country in a big way. From the distinct smell and humidity that engulfs you when you step out of the airport, to the cacophony of sounds coming from every direction, Thailand is like no other country I have visited.<br />
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Some of the ladies over at <a href="http://baptistmissionarywomen.blogspot.com/">Baptist Missionary Women</a> are sharing interesting tidbits about their countries, and so I thought I would jump in and share Thailand with you. After all, I couldn't stop talking about it before! ;-)</div>
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1.) The normal Thai greeting is the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thai_greeting">wai</a>. My daughter does a much better job doing the wai than my son does!</div>
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2.) Iced drink shops are everywhere here! Coffee, bubble tea, smoothies... you name it and someone probably has a shop for it! My Thai tutor explained it's because it is so hot here that people feel cool and refreshed with an iced drink.That works for me!<br />
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~my kids love this part of the culture~</div>
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3.) Blonde-haired, little Americans are a magnet. I'm serious! I am stopped several times a week by someone asking if they can take a picture of my kids. Around here, my kids are constantly called dolls, particularly Ellie!</div>
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4.) You will see "Amazing Thailand" printed on many tourist items (hats, shirts, etc), and for good reason. This country has a rugged beauty. No, there are no snow-capped mountain tops, but there's plenty of breath-taking valleys and lush rice paddies. I especially love seeing a rice paddy with new shoots. So fresh and green!</div>
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~this rice is just about ready to be harvested~</div>
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~"the sleeping lady"~</div>
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~each evening brings a spectacular sunset~</div>
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5.) Who doesn't love Thai food?!? My favorite Thai dish is chicken fried rice with freshly-squeezed lime. Yum!</div>
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6.) On any given day in any given neighborhood, someone is driving around peddling their wares. The best I've ever seen was full-sized wardrobes on the back of a pick-up truck (who looks out their window and thinks, "Oh, look! They're selling wardrobes on that pickup truck! I've been meaning to buy one.") We also buy some of our vegetables from a lady hauling them around on her motorcycle cart. And then of course you can buy tarps, ladders, or brooms, depending on the day. :-)</div>
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7.) Speaking of motorcycles, that is a main method of transportation for many people... and things. I am always impressed at the creativity of Thai people and how they can fit quite a bit on a motorcycle.</div>
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8.) In the market or at the grocery store, you will see lots of interesting things. Never a dull moment in going shopping here!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7uTg7lnxw6XYx87GF2xO5kf9usAr-IK0MyrEPMr66wDN8Nz9ct0cNrbC8_J1by7rDgGY4VWIEhnP9nHqh21RwNGwcKYhWZp3UeX5vBYlcvh5GUgVza_uEB2DHe0hAk4Sq7RIbMA/s1600/IMG_7429.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7uTg7lnxw6XYx87GF2xO5kf9usAr-IK0MyrEPMr66wDN8Nz9ct0cNrbC8_J1by7rDgGY4VWIEhnP9nHqh21RwNGwcKYhWZp3UeX5vBYlcvh5GUgVza_uEB2DHe0hAk4Sq7RIbMA/s320/IMG_7429.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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~in the grocery store~</div>
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~at the market~</div>
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9.) Often I will see Thai people wearing a coat, pants, socks, and a hat --- in 90* weather! Thai people don't like sun burn, so they will completely cover up. Even then, sometimes I'll see an umbrella just as an extra precaution!</div>
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10.) Let's face it - Thailand is hot. We've acclimated over the last two years, and now think low 70s is downright chilly. But give us 88 degree weather, and we only need a fan! Praise God for air conditioning for when the humidity makes it feel like 100 degrees!</div>
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Now that you're done here, head on over to <a href="http://keepinghouseinthehimals.blogspot.com/2015/10/ten-things-i-wish-people-knew-about-my.html">April's blog</a> and see what it's like for her! </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09288381628255711401noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29053483.post-25972486260681001232015-10-15T22:42:00.001-04:002015-10-15T22:42:54.991-04:00Hug.<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div>I feel like God gave me a hug this week, just to remind me that He loves and cares for <i>me</i>. What a kind Father! So here are some of my hugs:<div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6f-I3PeXOHlWPZnc0jcA_RnSzNTwUrdzD6eHFOoyWL8iUkPZ5QmLIPRS83FZzq9KktyFE350m9CLSyBkQtmnRaPOoanmccTuKOIllqdXfZzAmRHNJGW_HQhHYnV67-dENiY-0IQ/s640/blogger-image-680773944.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6f-I3PeXOHlWPZnc0jcA_RnSzNTwUrdzD6eHFOoyWL8iUkPZ5QmLIPRS83FZzq9KktyFE350m9CLSyBkQtmnRaPOoanmccTuKOIllqdXfZzAmRHNJGW_HQhHYnV67-dENiY-0IQ/s640/blogger-image-680773944.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>Our weather on Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday stayed in the mid-60s and it was glorious! I love the cozy feel of being in a warm house on a cold day. The sky had that overcast look when it's going to snow (not that it did!), I had some music playing, candles burning, and comfort food cooking on the stove. We pulled out the slippers and socks, and the kids enjoyed wearing long-sleeves again. Why is this a hug? I grew up in Pennsylvania, where I enjoyed having four seasons. Thailand is the land of perpetual summer, so I was thrilled to have some cool weather, particularly since my brain knows it's October. ;-)</div><div><br></div><div>Hug.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6y8h7ThDsa1-cz1GxASe1_6D81waybV_yOW0QRNJtbC_jEVebkXdZjfS6oDEOL_Frg46aWUa5CcMPWZkg3G4d6FbyowUs1IuCd87jACKM5weBUcRxGZqZzlEAtzJrntwievuDlA/s640/blogger-image--1686453728.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6y8h7ThDsa1-cz1GxASe1_6D81waybV_yOW0QRNJtbC_jEVebkXdZjfS6oDEOL_Frg46aWUa5CcMPWZkg3G4d6FbyowUs1IuCd87jACKM5weBUcRxGZqZzlEAtzJrntwievuDlA/s640/blogger-image--1686453728.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Earlier this year we stopped by a yard sale in Chiang Mai. A family was moving back to the states and wanted to get rid of some stuff. The yard sale was well attended, but somehow this little gem was overlooked by everyone! Not only do I love Yankee Candles, one of my favorites is Sparkling Cinnamon. Sure, the candle was half-used, but I didn't mind paying $1.00 for it! And now I have it as a reminder that God truly cares about the little things.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Hug.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT_n-8UVKUEMwOc4-13nVK5KP2jMjJtWyh8ESEf53h9Ut5nSmW01BDDVWJulldHsOKzSUc-dLq-FG3hgCwyPH8Tq-VPQrJ0le-h_e_437298BLQDUbMV-z4cTm7xH4kvqDQxfN1A/s640/blogger-image--1887406787.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT_n-8UVKUEMwOc4-13nVK5KP2jMjJtWyh8ESEf53h9Ut5nSmW01BDDVWJulldHsOKzSUc-dLq-FG3hgCwyPH8Tq-VPQrJ0le-h_e_437298BLQDUbMV-z4cTm7xH4kvqDQxfN1A/s640/blogger-image--1887406787.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Most evenings we go for a bike ride and usually catch a beautiful sunset. By the time I took this picture, the sun was just about gone, but God has given amazing scenery as a backdrop to our neighborhood!</div><div><br></div><div>Hug.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCG0AinsLBqxZ-rN7jOlBwXXdqPZuAwyYBSTn87Re460c_tuHtDb99Mo3527aGG9WFwZT9eUfi9Jc7ax2-BFV7sToQKsxvJIEUFodDhHQUEsBjC5SYkec4vf9hX6Nw8cTjboKTPw/s640/blogger-image-1819972745.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCG0AinsLBqxZ-rN7jOlBwXXdqPZuAwyYBSTn87Re460c_tuHtDb99Mo3527aGG9WFwZT9eUfi9Jc7ax2-BFV7sToQKsxvJIEUFodDhHQUEsBjC5SYkec4vf9hX6Nw8cTjboKTPw/s640/blogger-image-1819972745.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbvTqKY2iz7io5nZ0NWJ2tGKdtg6x_MEZJjUuHSh24p5aU01nsHIbPJ5WyK1AybPmcy0B0vvAGu7Xl0nOLcHaivzT5K7tqoHwy3X27dUfDEwsnOugEfsdrSNzY-3uD2gLZdYVqPA/s640/blogger-image--346248337.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbvTqKY2iz7io5nZ0NWJ2tGKdtg6x_MEZJjUuHSh24p5aU01nsHIbPJ5WyK1AybPmcy0B0vvAGu7Xl0nOLcHaivzT5K7tqoHwy3X27dUfDEwsnOugEfsdrSNzY-3uD2gLZdYVqPA/s640/blogger-image--346248337.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div>Any parent can tell you kids are a lot of work, but these two really do bring me so much joy! It's so fun to hear them giggling together. I love watching them play together. I pray they grow up being best friends. I have such great memories with my siblings, and I want these two to experience that.</div><div><br></div><div>Hug. </div><div><br></div><div>And then this morning? My brother called me.</div><div><br></div><div>Big hug!</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09288381628255711401noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29053483.post-47680736793600381372015-09-27T03:58:00.000-04:002015-09-27T03:58:14.869-04:00What a Friend...We sang "What a Friend We Have in Jesus" during our time of Bible study this morning, and the words ministered to my heart in such a sweet way. I'm not discouraged at the moment or going through a trial (watch out, Anne! right?), but sometimes home and friends seem very far away from my little corner of the world. But what a precious thought that Jesus is my friend and I can take everything to Him in prayer - right here. Let the words of this song minister to your heart like they did to mine today...<div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>What a friend we have in Jesus,</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>All our sins and griefs to bear!</i></div>
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<i>What a privilege to carry</i></div>
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<i>Everything to God in prayer!</i></div>
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<i>Oh, what peace we often forfeit,</i></div>
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<i>Oh, what needless pain we bear,</i></div>
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<i>All because we do not carry</i></div>
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<i>Everything to God in prayer!</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>Have we trials and temptations?</i></div>
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<i>Is there trouble anywhere?</i></div>
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<i>We should never be discouraged -</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Take it to the Lord in prayer.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Can we find a friend so faithful,</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Who will all our sorrows share?</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Jesus knows our every weakness;</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Take it to the Lord in prayer.</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Are we weak and heavy-laden,</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Cumbered with a load of care?</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Precious Savior, still our refuge -</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Take it to the Lord in prayer.</i></div>
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<i>Do thy friends despise, forsake thee?</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Take it to the Lord in prayer!</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>In His arms He'll take and shield thee,</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Thou wilt find a solace there.</i></div>
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</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09288381628255711401noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29053483.post-57745101916539891752015-09-20T09:03:00.001-04:002015-09-20T09:03:58.471-04:00Where Did The Week Go?<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The days just fly be here, so let's have a week in review via pictures, shall we?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh61Tnd1qHIu67NdWP9K7NWsR2vv-F_jk-ohgQUzahT1bmW8Ldjlwg45APIG_omizeZre7lQJa7mBa_NwJMKNJC-nMtKPQpDoM3MaEXabBUiOTMutyqIcRBYPjHLQqpq3VFWuWVWQ/s640/blogger-image--2111411036.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh61Tnd1qHIu67NdWP9K7NWsR2vv-F_jk-ohgQUzahT1bmW8Ldjlwg45APIG_omizeZre7lQJa7mBa_NwJMKNJC-nMtKPQpDoM3MaEXabBUiOTMutyqIcRBYPjHLQqpq3VFWuWVWQ/s640/blogger-image--2111411036.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We took our friends out to eat at a Chinese restaurant and I decided this is the biggest plate of pork fried rice I have ever seen! Oh, and the mushroom platter??? That was for my husband. :-)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkE-T-RKtN9K0jrRwOfPeduAQ5N3SwQBJZfj3JyndbRCWnz4OB9bU2D3CTNmzE_2SIuuwE_TnTYH_gpXtMB9h0IWtvG-cTVRRQ7OYCyfcCbQPNr-k4kdhAhCT_WDvAn2pNX5S0LA/s640/blogger-image-523498750.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkE-T-RKtN9K0jrRwOfPeduAQ5N3SwQBJZfj3JyndbRCWnz4OB9bU2D3CTNmzE_2SIuuwE_TnTYH_gpXtMB9h0IWtvG-cTVRRQ7OYCyfcCbQPNr-k4kdhAhCT_WDvAn2pNX5S0LA/s640/blogger-image-523498750.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Discovered an amazing view from a nearby mountain. We can't wait to go back and explore on a clear day!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw46Xlt14WMm1zUQG1t0lJtKlLXh7GSLh5oat5gBOVwJUye1MCp-l5XKvu3kGtmEtj3n40jfGimaahP2Ynq9M7ML0aGXhILv4lZCLlP4m2sW_62Dyr6BBeeTPV_Gnvi9paDUxZpA/s640/blogger-image--1157535656.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw46Xlt14WMm1zUQG1t0lJtKlLXh7GSLh5oat5gBOVwJUye1MCp-l5XKvu3kGtmEtj3n40jfGimaahP2Ynq9M7ML0aGXhILv4lZCLlP4m2sW_62Dyr6BBeeTPV_Gnvi9paDUxZpA/s640/blogger-image--1157535656.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">That's a LOT of hay!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1JH61tmBGXDHEy1WjqvHL-72Yw8JniiW7Mg_yWxaQiTjmEz2ksUyLf7MOyzURjWw9BfPMUTvWFfvsucHLFjymG-c0CTKOcZeZQoO_HCOhdG5VgxtXyuYTNI7j1HziG9EIp3bQ6A/s640/blogger-image-11418235.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1JH61tmBGXDHEy1WjqvHL-72Yw8JniiW7Mg_yWxaQiTjmEz2ksUyLf7MOyzURjWw9BfPMUTvWFfvsucHLFjymG-c0CTKOcZeZQoO_HCOhdG5VgxtXyuYTNI7j1HziG9EIp3bQ6A/s640/blogger-image-11418235.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I loved having my friend and her husband here for a visit. What an enjoyable time sharing Thailand with them!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbfKofmWbtv0q573y5V5sp5mKZsjLJecy7NzxeYJqWFBSp1TdQ2JMYg1VaqCHRfnePMtvqcvypSO1uI1p9ASp-4vRrOTJK-lN1yl5UzrnJnCmJu4msHoXRjUj2Tny9EXptIjLqvA/s640/blogger-image-315673342.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbfKofmWbtv0q573y5V5sp5mKZsjLJecy7NzxeYJqWFBSp1TdQ2JMYg1VaqCHRfnePMtvqcvypSO1uI1p9ASp-4vRrOTJK-lN1yl5UzrnJnCmJu4msHoXRjUj2Tny9EXptIjLqvA/s640/blogger-image-315673342.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We have our ups and downs, but when my little guy smiles like this, he completely melts my heart.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikUugxGeY53VGxkZ9-wrrwX7XxkfPtmcNx_17sC6WTZZIgmH3VIDv8OO8yVlwfCJ5dltE3wYPhvPkvcKlJ0-DQBGrfDeHOFDphMrDXNgDtQ2ofAhjcAx1uJxM605z_wc_reenktg/s640/blogger-image-1424808170.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikUugxGeY53VGxkZ9-wrrwX7XxkfPtmcNx_17sC6WTZZIgmH3VIDv8OO8yVlwfCJ5dltE3wYPhvPkvcKlJ0-DQBGrfDeHOFDphMrDXNgDtQ2ofAhjcAx1uJxM605z_wc_reenktg/s640/blogger-image-1424808170.jpg"></a></div><br></div></div>A friend gave me Cadbury hot chocolate mix, so the first night that was even remotely chilly, I made some up and enjoyed it in my new mug.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuCixBrNS8niMvntNw5162O0ZatLpXvSG9d9kMDA1PEiaFf6ymcYYql24ho4YemtHfIBPu6BDn0OUNxf8-X7toJVA9l5r6ktQ3CaA4liKayARTah3cY_OWmvne2DiR3ns2b85C9w/s640/blogger-image--2062552393.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuCixBrNS8niMvntNw5162O0ZatLpXvSG9d9kMDA1PEiaFf6ymcYYql24ho4YemtHfIBPu6BDn0OUNxf8-X7toJVA9l5r6ktQ3CaA4liKayARTah3cY_OWmvne2DiR3ns2b85C9w/s640/blogger-image--2062552393.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Discovered a new cafe and restaurant or, as they label it, cafe and meal. ;-)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg223veQo95xXI9CgO9dHdtmWYAyM3pl8dVQxLC-2dSJySentA-CZOpmtyWhXLQ8hQshyBmSyf35WugJQWLzArsX7k5_AR2H3SGGZeU4SC3adDXzwgldSK_jRIrz1LiswbPD3p0Kw/s640/blogger-image--694108083.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg223veQo95xXI9CgO9dHdtmWYAyM3pl8dVQxLC-2dSJySentA-CZOpmtyWhXLQ8hQshyBmSyf35WugJQWLzArsX7k5_AR2H3SGGZeU4SC3adDXzwgldSK_jRIrz1LiswbPD3p0Kw/s640/blogger-image--694108083.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">This little girl takes smoothies very seriously!</div></div></div></div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09288381628255711401noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29053483.post-36354304290982300012015-09-14T04:25:00.004-04:002015-09-14T04:25:58.202-04:00Fun Visitors!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We have absolutely loved having friends of ours visit for the last week or so! It's been so much fun hanging out together, talking and laughing long after our kiddos are in bed. We've also enjoyed a couple of game nights, one of our favorite ways to spend an evening. :-) </div>
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Our friends tend to be more explorers and adventurers than, shall we say, shoppers, so between the four of us, we discovered plenty of cool things to see in nature.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCy_S028TZv2FhEPS5zVpGwat5gBvtDeHW1ba7rsVRm8fnDN9twTxhwbr73DN3IMcMGWdYVL3YWPXZj65m46xc3AmUEUaD-973gtW44IdZ5QmasdcOoZ0664AQROsQGEgTkC-wIA/s1600/DSC_0195.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCy_S028TZv2FhEPS5zVpGwat5gBvtDeHW1ba7rsVRm8fnDN9twTxhwbr73DN3IMcMGWdYVL3YWPXZj65m46xc3AmUEUaD-973gtW44IdZ5QmasdcOoZ0664AQROsQGEgTkC-wIA/s320/DSC_0195.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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{The Readers and Nat explored a cave}</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUMsvEz5YC-o2KnYZeyiv-0j8agDfE0xF1kZ1gjHJFxAbZggclfFyvxuu0gDCMfHboQmJghzKETpVwXxi8O_cDNFYsADxR6j5M54deFuuW6Moy_qsiRNNykKjueaI71emZzP3nxg/s1600/DSC_0055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUMsvEz5YC-o2KnYZeyiv-0j8agDfE0xF1kZ1gjHJFxAbZggclfFyvxuu0gDCMfHboQmJghzKETpVwXxi8O_cDNFYsADxR6j5M54deFuuW6Moy_qsiRNNykKjueaI71emZzP3nxg/s320/DSC_0055.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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{Ellie experienced her first elephant ride near this river}</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSTck-Min8AiHIga6nJxVU6-h1piiUULNl6rqH4I7N0qcpxhaASHG9pKMHxNSSO3NpJTW8Tgyhx12jihPg35NJIyF-f3YbjPI6TkNs99mZ4E__26r0O6O6xUbSg1FRDc06r6I5vQ/s1600/DSC_0082.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSTck-Min8AiHIga6nJxVU6-h1piiUULNl6rqH4I7N0qcpxhaASHG9pKMHxNSSO3NpJTW8Tgyhx12jihPg35NJIyF-f3YbjPI6TkNs99mZ4E__26r0O6O6xUbSg1FRDc06r6I5vQ/s320/DSC_0082.JPG" width="212" /></a></div>
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{Took a hike that led to twin waterfalls}</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKF_aTczqdEV9_YebU8AqxA1QAnK_Bck11RVlYL-PNhkS2Ts5zG4hQLSEG3nyssMVjZgPv0LI4-MSRVqtnYoqSYoQ9B5RMCcn12ppsehL2TELt9b0EaD0YB3lWsMFhrOPWAeTrng/s1600/DSC_0249.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKF_aTczqdEV9_YebU8AqxA1QAnK_Bck11RVlYL-PNhkS2Ts5zG4hQLSEG3nyssMVjZgPv0LI4-MSRVqtnYoqSYoQ9B5RMCcn12ppsehL2TELt9b0EaD0YB3lWsMFhrOPWAeTrng/s320/DSC_0249.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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{New pictures were needed for a prayer card/Christmas card, so we snagged a few mommy & baby poses as well}</div>
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{Such happy smiles}</div>
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I'm so thankful for sweet fellowship and precious friendship. We're sad to see our friends leave in the morning, but we are so grateful they came and spent the time with us!<br />
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(Photo credit: Ilona Reader)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09288381628255711401noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29053483.post-48160155648791095632015-09-04T10:11:00.001-04:002015-09-04T10:11:49.819-04:00Enjoying Life!<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We've had our share of busy days with visitors coming and going, investing in people, and just simply enjoying the life we have!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Last weekend we were traveling, so we had the joy of sharing a room as a family. These two were so delighted with the king-size bed that they entertained themselves on it for a good two hours. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRPWFuf6cbSYRUxmgasof6XXs4u-Vi27ReSMJa8bu71F3UGegnXoL6HC8KIFuBifV_LAKBqcKkVbyzav-ubM9W1yCXbtDYJQTy7ejY8cOiriqbQjy9y8XPccLYEBUi5SDy2MCX8w/s640/blogger-image-34052182.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRPWFuf6cbSYRUxmgasof6XXs4u-Vi27ReSMJa8bu71F3UGegnXoL6HC8KIFuBifV_LAKBqcKkVbyzav-ubM9W1yCXbtDYJQTy7ejY8cOiriqbQjy9y8XPccLYEBUi5SDy2MCX8w/s640/blogger-image-34052182.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">This little guy just melts my heart...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTkby7ql0YHlpHaakgg4Xhxw2b6hGKX9Og-dkp1raI_pDOmH0eWcrAeNcfW0xADzoB1qVKGNSTMSWtbw4Nu3F9jKrudxnq9tqCnqfp0BIj7P8HFPITCrw6RESm9oqNVq-13fN-jQ/s640/blogger-image--1991625013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTkby7ql0YHlpHaakgg4Xhxw2b6hGKX9Og-dkp1raI_pDOmH0eWcrAeNcfW0xADzoB1qVKGNSTMSWtbw4Nu3F9jKrudxnq9tqCnqfp0BIj7P8HFPITCrw6RESm9oqNVq-13fN-jQ/s640/blogger-image--1991625013.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Nat and some men were invited to teach in a mountain village... I wish I had taken a picture of the road going up to where Nat parked the car!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihCAhjR8ReAC3PGYr0kjtCG_9hDCWRc-OTzkQmlRvqvA1-9IyWGqL6x1JnqU5V5TI7q1InvjktM7EiKPZ0q55UqjMfZ8FwOmoi-ZcIpc2BmsebPOQNREwsbbuPIWB9liSMJPe-9A/s640/blogger-image-1753031616.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihCAhjR8ReAC3PGYr0kjtCG_9hDCWRc-OTzkQmlRvqvA1-9IyWGqL6x1JnqU5V5TI7q1InvjktM7EiKPZ0q55UqjMfZ8FwOmoi-ZcIpc2BmsebPOQNREwsbbuPIWB9liSMJPe-9A/s640/blogger-image-1753031616.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">In the village.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimODzWTc1pyNL8lIr84WbbQ654PYMVcAgDvXMZCnjRpiLgtmsxK5tPz2IkODDOR4fN_qNPWuYLxvLDu5uGUtg2qy5-huHb_EcfwbBovecAxvSZLDTrlZ8uL9vxTJ8SJtZKbqRIPw/s640/blogger-image--1223070399.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimODzWTc1pyNL8lIr84WbbQ654PYMVcAgDvXMZCnjRpiLgtmsxK5tPz2IkODDOR4fN_qNPWuYLxvLDu5uGUtg2qy5-huHb_EcfwbBovecAxvSZLDTrlZ8uL9vxTJ8SJtZKbqRIPw/s640/blogger-image--1223070399.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The evening view outside our room... So pretty, especially during the day!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3k2fwdo6iBpsjVGyYNwcqdQaTnlD-qC7LXqX81z6ePU6ls548iMXeU4JwLJWHpTssfcPFpd9DZZnuQbr8XUPdSVTLH0hnwrWAGOt2TziE_7Ya6Nh1KcFmQEEngmCVx1z0E7tENg/s640/blogger-image-1811933228.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3k2fwdo6iBpsjVGyYNwcqdQaTnlD-qC7LXqX81z6ePU6ls548iMXeU4JwLJWHpTssfcPFpd9DZZnuQbr8XUPdSVTLH0hnwrWAGOt2TziE_7Ya6Nh1KcFmQEEngmCVx1z0E7tENg/s640/blogger-image-1811933228.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Hanging out at a kid-friendly coffee shop!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqBOv2FC5cT3bH5TLumTfWlCPs3-bHbmMXoeFxZEW7NCl43oumkswWYcouY6SxtQm8alpEUBxuVanJUFhyNTIn7Depjq9vPT57i4tg9Sk1gtBhGjMhZT96R2LYcfX4KrZEIjTgyQ/s640/blogger-image--674842942.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqBOv2FC5cT3bH5TLumTfWlCPs3-bHbmMXoeFxZEW7NCl43oumkswWYcouY6SxtQm8alpEUBxuVanJUFhyNTIn7Depjq9vPT57i4tg9Sk1gtBhGjMhZT96R2LYcfX4KrZEIjTgyQ/s640/blogger-image--674842942.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I have a huge fascination with what motorcyclists can carry on their bikes. This passenger definitely got creative!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp_gnZe703kGxDIfMdjfBE3W82Tn-NhY77VeK6Dn2r-8CHzwdZKz8fB009HORDH3ejQTnbxLPGwM0TlV0UK_URsbRLyLT4_DjJxdMGYWFJWP4vJq137GT85d6WA66FtmldW7Z5-w/s640/blogger-image--968531299.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp_gnZe703kGxDIfMdjfBE3W82Tn-NhY77VeK6Dn2r-8CHzwdZKz8fB009HORDH3ejQTnbxLPGwM0TlV0UK_URsbRLyLT4_DjJxdMGYWFJWP4vJq137GT85d6WA66FtmldW7Z5-w/s640/blogger-image--968531299.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">You can't see him in the picture, but the driver is actually a motorcycle taxi. I would love to hear that conversation play out, "Can you pick up 10 plastic chairs and bring them to me?"</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFkM0opgUTYBV4RaSUFL0lyjLPnLE9tbb_WPUQO3oVqvVxePrKxh_XvfbfILZ60OHsERfL6J-1kSpHORUmt9q3XW2nUeK4vCpCcNiBYoLZlr5UYS80OkiSdyPUbkyQYa5JhIv0WQ/s640/blogger-image-184576285.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFkM0opgUTYBV4RaSUFL0lyjLPnLE9tbb_WPUQO3oVqvVxePrKxh_XvfbfILZ60OHsERfL6J-1kSpHORUmt9q3XW2nUeK4vCpCcNiBYoLZlr5UYS80OkiSdyPUbkyQYa5JhIv0WQ/s640/blogger-image-184576285.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Family day!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijZUGLMG66itzBh3xxrrppMzsSDf_UI4tdSArwfFYusr0R70OJ0LG9msaa2M6PMGDK32kaKkzFCDfy3gasr8qrUKmDugRsBV92tL0sILGk2HLZOFsyu0KT7jsvJ15nMjD-aDh4dA/s640/blogger-image--1644839318.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijZUGLMG66itzBh3xxrrppMzsSDf_UI4tdSArwfFYusr0R70OJ0LG9msaa2M6PMGDK32kaKkzFCDfy3gasr8qrUKmDugRsBV92tL0sILGk2HLZOFsyu0KT7jsvJ15nMjD-aDh4dA/s640/blogger-image--1644839318.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Oh this kid... :-)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaqlAlXoFBjAFa841XqQNjL9HbLNEUPuOYoGvMxGoRohfb92zGzyAzzMhPHTlEavdnR9UUnPKP3NKY1TP8mFcHVJvWmp2pl9sffPZh7536D-q9Mnpa-i9gvKQIMmGeuN7d-xaYDQ/s640/blogger-image--187597909.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaqlAlXoFBjAFa841XqQNjL9HbLNEUPuOYoGvMxGoRohfb92zGzyAzzMhPHTlEavdnR9UUnPKP3NKY1TP8mFcHVJvWmp2pl9sffPZh7536D-q9Mnpa-i9gvKQIMmGeuN7d-xaYDQ/s640/blogger-image--187597909.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">... and this one too!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4I0PPCHbzn4oHqc6v_fRSQih4_Fob8VfDOVTmMZH-IBx4nAQh_HUo6o1_4ymFGs70vB5KsqKzbDs0vMdfQSU7wpMrLmED2SHeC1LspsfRI6tZRFczq7t69dr4n_fKiAc96-MKoA/s640/blogger-image-1647187256.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4I0PPCHbzn4oHqc6v_fRSQih4_Fob8VfDOVTmMZH-IBx4nAQh_HUo6o1_4ymFGs70vB5KsqKzbDs0vMdfQSU7wpMrLmED2SHeC1LspsfRI6tZRFczq7t69dr4n_fKiAc96-MKoA/s640/blogger-image-1647187256.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We stopped for a donut on the way home from the store today. The uneaten donut in Paul's lap is a good indication of just how tired he was!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwE8sFUWGZ6IowGL5nfFOKjW3PfHciHQk4Vd71geISF5GWu6otBtEU6kuWiGkfquwCW59GhxHBrDuql1LtgWnDG78YMWedSIxdYF9osJ-f7MaJL8Y_2bq4R8-4Du4oHFaaKiu9Vw/s640/blogger-image-1149947779.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwE8sFUWGZ6IowGL5nfFOKjW3PfHciHQk4Vd71geISF5GWu6otBtEU6kuWiGkfquwCW59GhxHBrDuql1LtgWnDG78YMWedSIxdYF9osJ-f7MaJL8Y_2bq4R8-4Du4oHFaaKiu9Vw/s640/blogger-image-1149947779.jpg"></a></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><br></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09288381628255711401noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29053483.post-26400589239010335012015-08-10T03:06:00.001-04:002015-08-10T18:47:46.712-04:00At Least I'm Consistent!We've been having lots of fun in our new house and city, so here's a quick update via photos. (Again!)<div><br></div><div>We bought this rocking horse just before we moved, and now the entertainment is endless around here!</div><div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8Kx4pqXxH1iHwXC3wEwONdgn3_vEG9fY0KvH5ZDg9MkrM828S1OSh2UtF31Smx7uYkRtsFlsZAY4Dx1DLENJGgsPU4Kq1plHl40tJGPTQkB84kF438joSxO0Cn7oQbBHT-2gUBw/s640/blogger-image--534285340.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8Kx4pqXxH1iHwXC3wEwONdgn3_vEG9fY0KvH5ZDg9MkrM828S1OSh2UtF31Smx7uYkRtsFlsZAY4Dx1DLENJGgsPU4Kq1plHl40tJGPTQkB84kF438joSxO0Cn7oQbBHT-2gUBw/s640/blogger-image--534285340.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">This is the way Ellie drives...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheloGDYeVBSWlnXLB7kjhSx2ICRqDtX28coBL-IuoAZq8ebpoWtyrzvMDSk3yQDYt7-cBTP2P_qrmye4MUWOjEL9YVGSPWh9u0syTy8IUFNn30-EEYXHZM-0WlrtxWf9uVaX3v4w/s640/blogger-image-1653333300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheloGDYeVBSWlnXLB7kjhSx2ICRqDtX28coBL-IuoAZq8ebpoWtyrzvMDSk3yQDYt7-cBTP2P_qrmye4MUWOjEL9YVGSPWh9u0syTy8IUFNn30-EEYXHZM-0WlrtxWf9uVaX3v4w/s640/blogger-image-1653333300.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Nat has been busy scrubbing dirt off the walls and ground (the walls in the background show the difference), and Paul has enjoyed "helping" Daddy. :-)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrQEMJqjKt6dk6KDJl-nlS878FxpXL41sB0MrkjZ56QNI0skFY2sAaRtn7H9BmrlYutFGAObd4dIUhriRYlnyDwq-Thb2UgUd0QID2iTXCvd8h9Bqj57EalAenWD1_ohmdGwzkKA/s640/blogger-image-52310291.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrQEMJqjKt6dk6KDJl-nlS878FxpXL41sB0MrkjZ56QNI0skFY2sAaRtn7H9BmrlYutFGAObd4dIUhriRYlnyDwq-Thb2UgUd0QID2iTXCvd8h9Bqj57EalAenWD1_ohmdGwzkKA/s640/blogger-image-52310291.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>A couple of weeks ago I took a quick trip to Bangkok to visit with some friends. It sure was fun being in the big city again!</div><div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjeBBBqLqoscyYvXY89b0S-oG4o6dZFOYKi33jHwJLZbjuDWyKLwuTzGatAif0pqQTU0_ivt6RzyDHxgp778nYidVq0ghrMcsgY6_n4JSoCnF1TuOXDMr2w9vkyyjO45SZJ03SZw/s640/blogger-image-59969830.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjeBBBqLqoscyYvXY89b0S-oG4o6dZFOYKi33jHwJLZbjuDWyKLwuTzGatAif0pqQTU0_ivt6RzyDHxgp778nYidVq0ghrMcsgY6_n4JSoCnF1TuOXDMr2w9vkyyjO45SZJ03SZw/s640/blogger-image-59969830.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Nat did a great job with the kids while I was away, and he sent me this picture of Ellie's "daddy-do".</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmuHaAz4uKfpf5oq5XV-eX0z29F4Qhr0qlnC08gywuzquUV5vIEXl-U3qHLAtovAHz81TKSRZc3u-i6wmFni9fRgbT9hhMnHmPLi0T6oLId4ake-ZkPIdDox7Y393BL7nXzaXD5Q/s640/blogger-image--2054452842.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmuHaAz4uKfpf5oq5XV-eX0z29F4Qhr0qlnC08gywuzquUV5vIEXl-U3qHLAtovAHz81TKSRZc3u-i6wmFni9fRgbT9hhMnHmPLi0T6oLId4ake-ZkPIdDox7Y393BL7nXzaXD5Q/s640/blogger-image--2054452842.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>Apparently the back of our truck is loads of fun too... </div><div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVy4CcfGGv9cIL9HVbAQd2YZG8J-iBBdsEOksWs9c2fYO4uI0tP4AahhPS0DZXKB9NfKSmseFbksbeMcUs_Wn3mFjuSLZSIeLycoa0RHDXwavRzTZXWCmoAv0-H_FHbROX6O1Slg/s640/blogger-image--177808735.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVy4CcfGGv9cIL9HVbAQd2YZG8J-iBBdsEOksWs9c2fYO4uI0tP4AahhPS0DZXKB9NfKSmseFbksbeMcUs_Wn3mFjuSLZSIeLycoa0RHDXwavRzTZXWCmoAv0-H_FHbROX6O1Slg/s640/blogger-image--177808735.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>Check out this coffee stand we stopped at... That stepstool was helpful and the coffee was very good!</div><div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizLWm6PrGjQL6AA4wJJ78ILKCn1qFamhStPQqewVAbseld2bx24S3jdE5maVCOZ9xM3ZbSsh61EyOhwtoHcc8hYoOUQcKjaUy71OiHCWbH3hYjiyo9GS5LTPDa3ThRx7dyoVD0YA/s640/blogger-image-1191114719.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizLWm6PrGjQL6AA4wJJ78ILKCn1qFamhStPQqewVAbseld2bx24S3jdE5maVCOZ9xM3ZbSsh61EyOhwtoHcc8hYoOUQcKjaUy71OiHCWbH3hYjiyo9GS5LTPDa3ThRx7dyoVD0YA/s640/blogger-image-1191114719.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>Our house is in this neighborhood.</div><div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKQKFkgev_rZHTxBfnKlNByvjphTKAeZXlIB2JSvDgxn9d7CE1fQ76Oeqwa_XtyJtsGAhVouYkRXeOcc_x7HWhi3VzxLh56C9ow0DDPQS4H4y3Ks9cZm-rQftpH1F45OM2N05scQ/s640/blogger-image--2014073892.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKQKFkgev_rZHTxBfnKlNByvjphTKAeZXlIB2JSvDgxn9d7CE1fQ76Oeqwa_XtyJtsGAhVouYkRXeOcc_x7HWhi3VzxLh56C9ow0DDPQS4H4y3Ks9cZm-rQftpH1F45OM2N05scQ/s640/blogger-image--2014073892.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>These two love playing with each other and have the cutest giggles.</div><div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS7kv02ZykfPSqR0qVa0jo6mPJNesVqOXUglW7XS354eZOyHfpTtMUwYFTjgM6BC3x7i6m3Mj3bLZoWrDPbySNFLPy5LY54F7ftLY814YJu8nNA183v2fP3yDjxFIA9Linx9GMdA/s640/blogger-image-336834400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS7kv02ZykfPSqR0qVa0jo6mPJNesVqOXUglW7XS354eZOyHfpTtMUwYFTjgM6BC3x7i6m3Mj3bLZoWrDPbySNFLPy5LY54F7ftLY814YJu8nNA183v2fP3yDjxFIA9Linx9GMdA/s640/blogger-image-336834400.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">They are also huge daredevils and are constantly finding new heights to explore. 😳 </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcQ3zC0uWdN4dkHze1yQiG8fzP288zUmiXQPzMqD6_YVYnwUVdzXc-y6iH4PSseWyPR2w4zHmM3PAwpGArbDONAPx9FNON0fHMWP-yyJ2YCUxiVaoajo4B2CVTv3URfCtlpZ9NNA/s640/blogger-image--1148069089.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcQ3zC0uWdN4dkHze1yQiG8fzP288zUmiXQPzMqD6_YVYnwUVdzXc-y6iH4PSseWyPR2w4zHmM3PAwpGArbDONAPx9FNON0fHMWP-yyJ2YCUxiVaoajo4B2CVTv3URfCtlpZ9NNA/s640/blogger-image--1148069089.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div>Paul loves a mango smoothie! That yellow thing in his smoothie? Yeah, that's NOT a piece of mango, but some kind of jello-like rice glop. Big disappointment when the expectation is a piece of mango. </div><div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiba5FxOL-KbwTPT-RC9Cjp0ZLpizMiJs1hvBNmWvIbURQoPbdSbDVJmBwbz66Ls2djFeIqJx9jTzPFyXQQGYoZqkOvoMZzQC2PadW7wpiF6x0GH0Q6eyn_uDz8nDOq49ROoVjyZA/s640/blogger-image--1836821693.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiba5FxOL-KbwTPT-RC9Cjp0ZLpizMiJs1hvBNmWvIbURQoPbdSbDVJmBwbz66Ls2djFeIqJx9jTzPFyXQQGYoZqkOvoMZzQC2PadW7wpiF6x0GH0Q6eyn_uDz8nDOq49ROoVjyZA/s640/blogger-image--1836821693.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">There aren't too many playgrounds here, but there are plenty of kiddie rides at most malls and big stores. The kids were finally bold enough to take their first ride together. They loved it, contrary to the expressions on their faces. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif8wq9osC0rPm2KniXa9obw3Bx-SjKUULMPIn_nPshaFhb2zeb5SUKOYL3O2MPrrnLZusMg1rMPHFvdgbSYvWXtuDCt8J1BAP4XqzGDT9FYlUmUpJp_3-nvkq62lXmxkaC_xdf7Q/s640/blogger-image-2132955547.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif8wq9osC0rPm2KniXa9obw3Bx-SjKUULMPIn_nPshaFhb2zeb5SUKOYL3O2MPrrnLZusMg1rMPHFvdgbSYvWXtuDCt8J1BAP4XqzGDT9FYlUmUpJp_3-nvkq62lXmxkaC_xdf7Q/s640/blogger-image-2132955547.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">As always, there's more to share but it's back to enjoying life with the kiddos!</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09288381628255711401noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29053483.post-90586463485266755742015-07-15T03:39:00.001-04:002015-07-15T03:51:07.639-04:00Taking A Breather<div>Last week I took the opportunity to slip away to a nearby coffee shop while the kids were napping. I haven't quite decided if this particular shop is going to be my new favorite coffee shop or not. For one thing, the name is Pen Da Hug Coffee. I keep forgetting to check the Thai spelling because then I might be able to figure out where they were heading with the name. The word "pen" in Thai is actually pronounced like "Ben" and means is/are. I'm not sure what "da" is supposed to mean, but "hug" sounds pretty comforting, so maybe it will be my new favorite after all!</div><div><br></div><div>And come on, this *is* a pretty cute way to serve an iced latte:</div><div><br></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVA_7nSkeJOagiubbV7KXfotJlT2Uhcq5gJ9ccUhZIA-i6OfoPAzzZvek-2vbEXrpdoUNiuHVehVu1Vgbyvwn_bH7Wgr8BvcDf3ZCKygYc7ocY4n4M2hY1vdVddLUPjNbtC_Epmg/s640/blogger-image-1453067806.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVA_7nSkeJOagiubbV7KXfotJlT2Uhcq5gJ9ccUhZIA-i6OfoPAzzZvek-2vbEXrpdoUNiuHVehVu1Vgbyvwn_bH7Wgr8BvcDf3ZCKygYc7ocY4n4M2hY1vdVddLUPjNbtC_Epmg/s640/blogger-image-1453067806.jpg"></a><div><br></div><div>So for approximately $1.20, not only did I get a cute-looking mug (great-tasting latte included!), I also had 45 minutes of downtime to sit on someone else's porch with a wonderful breeze blowing through and I got to read part of a book! Complete win: kids slept, hubby worked on projects, and I enjoyed a breather. :-)</div><div><br></div><div>That breather was needed because we've packed so much into the last two weeks. The move from Chiang Mai was the first time we've ever had to move everything to a new house, and I was grateful we had movers do the job. </div><div><br></div><div>We were very excited to have the opportunity to put together our kitchen the way we wanted to, so we started off with a blank room:</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-iincztdpoM_Au7Sb7u90mBXNstnfa2KUptMZ7AjQ3_oofhSzLIuiC3MdSRFCxpOlEN6I-filnVaKuJqUO-aQ8ijgGyKOJynHSEH1sOSPqCrbI3NF7tkbcwk8va7SYoUr2AaFFg/s640/blogger-image-893870143.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-iincztdpoM_Au7Sb7u90mBXNstnfa2KUptMZ7AjQ3_oofhSzLIuiC3MdSRFCxpOlEN6I-filnVaKuJqUO-aQ8ijgGyKOJynHSEH1sOSPqCrbI3NF7tkbcwk8va7SYoUr2AaFFg/s640/blogger-image-893870143.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>And came up with this:</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP8qvMpQh-jC4yiJRNmI4nBtjGAcmxfLLGnA0yRCzhEY2mVBGPqteI9I2vEe8U0yyCvNB23QKJXMSlz1JFAb35pQHxngWbUNany4T74_v5IjOgFWpP2RfCHz-GvAIs8aqcoNp9Ww/s640/blogger-image--505737654.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP8qvMpQh-jC4yiJRNmI4nBtjGAcmxfLLGnA0yRCzhEY2mVBGPqteI9I2vEe8U0yyCvNB23QKJXMSlz1JFAb35pQHxngWbUNany4T74_v5IjOgFWpP2RfCHz-GvAIs8aqcoNp9Ww/s640/blogger-image--505737654.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Can I just say how much I'm enjoying having a big kitchen?!? It was originally the living room, but the kitchen was more important to us than the living room, so we tossed the idea of a living room out. :-) </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We're still putting a few things together throughout the house, but overall we are completely able to function with lots of little perks along the way. We're also enjoying a wide porch, whether sitting out there to read my Bible, watching the kids play, or eating dinner. A soft breeze blows often and it's so quiet. God has been very good to us!</div><br></div><div><br></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09288381628255711401noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29053483.post-43985238952126689312015-06-27T05:36:00.003-04:002015-06-27T05:36:39.243-04:00These Two Little Munchkins.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A quick photo shoot last Sunday morning paused time for a brief moment -- one very brief moment!</div>
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These two munchkins kick the activity level up a notch around here and their giggles fill our home from before sunup until after dark. Even then, after two little bodies are safely tucked into their beds, we'll occasionally hear from a little boy adding his two cents to our conversations. Both of them are such adventure-seekers and Ellie delights in having us look for her, and then screams with delight when we find her crawling to the top of the stairs.</div>
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Of course dirt and mud beckon Paul's name and he simply can't resist. I often find him squatting over a pile of rocks, twigs, or dirt - intently focused on the important task at hand. </div>
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And this girl. Whoa. Ever since her birthday, her little personality has really developed. Gone is "baby" and taking her place is a toddler who can't quite keep up with big brother yet --- but she is determined to try! </div>
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My days are filled with childish laughter (and tears), food smeared on the floor ("oops!" I hear), training and teaching ("please put this away") and lots and lots of hugs and snuggles. Always, always worth it, although some mornings I don't hop out of bed with a bright smile on my face when I hear our bedroom door being slammed open by a very awake little boy. ;-)</div>
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Yep, I love my job!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09288381628255711401noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29053483.post-53349214491226669592015-06-26T03:52:00.000-04:002015-06-27T04:45:46.248-04:00Emotions.<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
We're moving in four days. </div>
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It goes without saying my emotions have gone all the way from elation to tears, sometimes within the same hour! What an unreliable indicator of truth.</div>
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On the one hand, we are incredibly excited as we take the next step forward in reaching out to people groups in SE Asia. So many brand-new opportunities and connections await us. How thrilling!</div>
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And, of course, there's the other hand. The hand that tugs on my emotional heartstrings. For instance, this picture:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD4I0qrSEVtDt3prj56ijQkzxqvgM9hDpxmvB3krS6jpRfHJa-Y58GsGb7RA4R7TWIUjRGihxefzqO79BSuPyB0A_UEaf_cEsD6onA90ia3p_gl_IFlnOkVj0ghVxPjQISNBzyUA/s1600/DSC_7116.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD4I0qrSEVtDt3prj56ijQkzxqvgM9hDpxmvB3krS6jpRfHJa-Y58GsGb7RA4R7TWIUjRGihxefzqO79BSuPyB0A_UEaf_cEsD6onA90ia3p_gl_IFlnOkVj0ghVxPjQISNBzyUA/s320/DSC_7116.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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These two little guys are Sunday buddies. As in, they play together each Sunday and have done so for over a year. Us moving four hours north is putting an abrupt end to the adventures in toddler-hood these two share. {Well, it would come to an end soon anyway since the other little boy's parents are returning to the states for furlough but ... I digress.} </div>
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We've put down some roots in Chiang Mai - 19 months of roots. We've gotten to know and love so many people, visited many unique places, hosted our first visitors here, made memories with Paul, and of course Ellie was born here. We stumbled through language learning (oh wait, I'm still stumbling!), had some cultural boo-boos, and were a source of endless entertainment for our neighborhood.</div>
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By focusing on the past though, I'm not going to make forward traction. Instead, I'm going to get sentimental thinking through memories, but not adjusting to a new set of adventures. </div>
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And so.... I choose to be excited about this new step ahead of us. Of course that doesn't mean part of my heart isn't being left behind in Chiang Mai. It is. Just like a part of my heart is in Pennsylvania. But I can't wait to begin putting down some new roots and making new memories in a new place. Oh, and the people we will meet! I want them to come to Heaven with me. So it's time to dig up those roots and plant them somewhere new. Souls are waiting.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9nvHIQWoPiBlsmVTNmFwhQqYXRsV_TR42ntsVtms7Yq8fpfvaqavkQXhhPvLozOwngjcjtyx9CCVJKOa2d9VmC1y4S-Fa4WrWpLpCJwhKBV4PEERRO-Kh4INKldIUA_yfdXMQlg/s1600/DSC_6774.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9nvHIQWoPiBlsmVTNmFwhQqYXRsV_TR42ntsVtms7Yq8fpfvaqavkQXhhPvLozOwngjcjtyx9CCVJKOa2d9VmC1y4S-Fa4WrWpLpCJwhKBV4PEERRO-Kh4INKldIUA_yfdXMQlg/s320/DSC_6774.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Our new city</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqPerhzG5UaGgZjLBpqWOicUls9Al8z3hdk2JOEXxg_Gs8T8WiRNlwiyiYiwnyYJIt5rG15NOTm1SrN8Rgu4j3R_ibzjEpOC9NTloTcOAbxSOjzo6ZXr7guXJ7i3eOENEgRjt_lg/s1600/new-house.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqPerhzG5UaGgZjLBpqWOicUls9Al8z3hdk2JOEXxg_Gs8T8WiRNlwiyiYiwnyYJIt5rG15NOTm1SrN8Rgu4j3R_ibzjEpOC9NTloTcOAbxSOjzo6ZXr7guXJ7i3eOENEgRjt_lg/s320/new-house.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Our new house - please come visit us!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09288381628255711401noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29053483.post-80067890600112991472015-06-22T04:31:00.001-04:002015-06-22T04:31:47.076-04:00Doing What They Love To Do.<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUdxhgDPgHdCy0-6U_LxouOzZertfq56LvBctw7N3b51l9jAp0IRUtWBIDTl5MkyAaOu7UapFOaVJ1ksYEOGda_Xu5wtg4jgdKStF2InGEFe44D6ZiKMllNrQRY89CFA5fLFiJOA/s640/blogger-image-1130775588.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUdxhgDPgHdCy0-6U_LxouOzZertfq56LvBctw7N3b51l9jAp0IRUtWBIDTl5MkyAaOu7UapFOaVJ1ksYEOGda_Xu5wtg4jgdKStF2InGEFe44D6ZiKMllNrQRY89CFA5fLFiJOA/s640/blogger-image-1130775588.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">While not the best quality, I love how this picture captures my two kiddos doing what they love to do: play with plastic containers and cooking. These two keep me on my toes and there are plenty of times throughout the day when the same lesson is taught over and over again (to me, haha!), but it's so fun to watch these little personalities grow and develop!!</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09288381628255711401noreply@blogger.com0