a quick trip

 We took a VERY quick trip to see some dear friends over the fourth of July. 

These friends go waaayyy back..... even before the baby years. 

In fact, we named some of our children after each other :) 

We met Jason and Kristin in GA, and they dragged us across the country to CA. Ha.

The boys got through seminary together, and Kris and I got through the first years of mothering. 

After seminary, they headed to MT.... and we stayed in CA. 

Because of these connections early on, our kids have really sweet relationships with each other. 

The pastor and I thought it was a bit crazy to drive 13 hours to see this sweet family,

but our kids would NOT let us consider otherwise. 

SO, we arrived in MT, after a long, BEAUTIFUL, car ride to this 10 acre home in the country. 

The kids picked right up with each other and had a glorious time,

while we adults did the same. 

Wouldn't have changed a second of anything...

(except the bad cold I had the whole trip :) 

Here's a taste of our trip and a few highlights:

:: beautiful, beautiful country ::

:: taking a breather from the car... ::

:: a long walk in the country on Jason and Kristin's property ::

:: lots of drawing ::

:: lots of make-overs..... ::

:: resulting in beautifully made-up girls ::

:: warm weather, and sprinkler-running each night ::

:: a good-ol' 4th of July rodeo ::

:: Jason's sweet relationship with his namesake (Toby), affectionately know as T-Jason ::

:: a sweet reunion at the rodeo w/ another family from way back!! ::

:: glorious mornings and evenings on the back porch, sipping coffee and talking ::

:: watching these two sweet girls Irish dance together! ::

(Kendall Kate is my namesake :)

:: watching the older kids with the younger kids :: 

:: can't say how much it blessed my heart!! ::

:: more make-overs ::

:: I want chickens in my backyard! ::

:: basketball games for the boys ::

:: sleep-overs in the camper for the older kids ::

:: swimming, movies, and date-night for the adults ::

:: glorious country-sunsets :: 


Thank you dear Father for the safety you gave us, the sweet fellowship, 
Your beautiful, diverse world,
and friendships that enrich our lives. 
How blessed we are, beyond measure.