happy birthday papa

We just got back from Num Num and Papa's place. 

Had a wonderful afternoon celebrating Papa's birthday! 

How I love visiting the country in the spring. 

We were here just two weeks ago, and I am amazed

at how quickly the spring blossoms come and go. 

These so-called canadian "magnolias" were just budding last visit ...

now look at them! 

 The kids enjoyed running around the big yard 

..... shooting bb guns,

blowing bubbles, writing with chalk on the patio,

while the adults chatted. 

 :: crab-apple blossoms ::

aren't they BEAUTIFUL!!

Of course Num Num loves every chance she can get with her grands....

(Isn't her apron adorable??) 

She made us a yummy mexican spread for dinner,

complete with a Dairy Queen cake for Papa! 

 

:: bleeding hearts ::

some of my favorite. 

 The month of April has simply flown by. 

It has been SO busy for the pastor with meetings,

presbytery, and a wedding on top of his regular duties. 

The Lord has been growing our little church body

and we have been so encouraged. 

Two new families were received into membership today ....

and 5 of our covenant kids were baptized! 

(not to mention one last week)

I was lovin' all of their unique names ..... and listening to the verses

the pastor chose for each one. I think I cried the whole time!!

 Beauty is everywhere you look .... isn't it? 

Inside the church and out. 

:: From the rainbow of spring flowers ::

~ displaying signs of the Creator's handiwork ~ to

 :: THE sign of the Covenant ::

~ displaying the Creator's love and desire 

for relationship with His children ~

How very blessed we are! 

We love being close to the pastor's family,

celebrating birthdays and holidays that, for so many years,

we were unable to ..... sweet, sweet times.

How I miss my family though!
My folks have been in San Diego visiting baby Beck the past two weeks.
Unfortunately, we will miss seeing them ..... BUT

we are thrilled to be able to go and reconnect with my brother and his family,

have the cousins meet each other for the first time,

and visit with our former church body! A much needed vacation and
some good old R and R :)

Good times ahead ..... if this 5-pack mama can 

actually get her act together and GET PACKED!! 

Happy Birthday Papa!
How we LOVE celebrating with you.
Many blessings to you in the next year.
You are loved and appreciated SO MUCH!!