I think I like it. 35. There’s something happy about embracing the very stage you find yourself currently living. I have a fear of missing out, but in a backwards nostalgic sense. My fear is that by moving forward to the next life phase, I’d miss out on something in the previous stage. All the… Read More Turning 35
We began this new year with a new experience. Groupmuse has recently come to Portland. What started on the East Coast as a group of musician friends playing music together at each others’ homes, has now opened up as an invitation to the community to come listen to beautiful music in nearby homes. Here’s the… Read More Connecting Over Music
We made memories in our own home this year as it’s the first Christmas we’ve spent in Oregon, and the first Christmas that we’ve owned this house. I’m so happy we have a fireplace, and we took the chance to use it quite a bit this holiday season–even roasting marshmallows in the family room {not… Read More Christmas by Firelight
I’ve been so busy doing nothing this Christmas break, that I just haven’t had time to blog! Early in December I had my wisdom teeth removed (finally!), and a friend of mine came over for two days to take care of me and the kids. Debbie is such a sweetheart to serve us so selflessly.… Read More Zoo Lights & Other Celebrations
Cooper Andrew has had a season of birthday celebration this fall. It began when Grammy and Grampy threw him an early birthday party in Indiana this September. Then {since his November 27th birthday usually falls on or near Thanksgiving} we hosted his party on the 18th–before all our friends were partied-out! Finally, we gave him… Read More He’s Finally 5!
Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change. James 1:17 ESV Thanksgiving is a sweet holiday. It’s a time to pause in reflective thankfulness to God our Father. It’s a time to enjoy family and friends… Read More Thankfulness
Fall in Oregon is dazzling! This October has been dry, warm, and sunny–especially compared to last year. By now, most of the leaves are either gone or have turned brown, but it’s been a beauty of a season! We explored Sauvie Island (an island in the Columbia River) one weekend. Though it’s just across the river… Read More Autumn Activities
Somehow Silas turned 7 this year. He’s such a fun kid with lots of interests and a big personality. He’s so very precious to us! One thing Silas has been consistently known for is being a good friend. Ever since he was a baby, he’s been a people magnet. And his teacher this year again… Read More Birthday with Friends
After a fun season of t-ball this past spring, we signed Silas up for soccer through Somerset West Soccer Club. Silas was on the Bears team–coached by a friend just down the street from us. Our motivations for signing Silas up for soccer were to give him time to be with his buddies and to provide… Read More Bears Soccer
Summer vacation began with a bang as we hosted our housewarming party during a triple digit heat wave in late June. We enjoyed time with neighbors and friends from both church and school. Swim lessons were a staple nearly every weekday until mid-August. Silas finally advanced to Level 2. Hooray! Stephen attended weekly classes for… Read More Summer Recap