Our Soldier

A fellow mommy friend (Shilo) from Desert Hills Evangelical Free Church (AZ) is a photographer.  She asked right before Glen came home from chaplaincy school if she could take photos of our family, no charge.  These shots were taken the day before we left for WA. Can't wait to print some up and display in our home to remember him while he's gone overseas. Thank you so much Bri!!

Saying Goodbye

Throughout the summer, Glen and I were praying about whether to take our precious Daisy girl to WA with us.  We've had her for four years. But knowing his upcoming deployment, we knew it wasn't the best thing given all the demands.  Hardest decision we've had to make...but God provided in such an AMAZING way with a sweet older couple in northern AZ who had been praying for a beagle.  She has a big yard to run and play in, is very loved, and the great news is that we get to see her whenever we visit.  So thankful.

 We miss you Daisy (tear)

 New owner, Nancy, let us come visit to say goodbye.  Micah did so well :).

Summer Goals

Two areas I wanted to work on with Micah was scripture memory and tracing/writing letters.  Has kept me going while dad is away :).

The Lord's Prayer

(and no, he can't read yet-`just wanted to hold my bible)

 Almost done, a few more left!

 This is an antique tea party set/table that belonged to my grand-mother.  I used to play at this all the time when visiting her home as a little girl.  Now I get to watch my own kids play at it, so excited.

HAPPY Father's Day...

seems to mean so much more now since Glen's been gone.  He was able to fly home for a quick 1-2 day turnaround and it was worth it.  We surprised Micah by telling him his Clifford stuffed animal was hiding in our bed sheets and he wanted to come have breakfast with us.  SURPRISE!  Anna stood amazed for awhile, then was all snuggles.  Blessed beyond measure to have this short time together.

We love you Dad!

Dad & Caleb getting acquainted again

Kids were ALL over him, so precious

Happy girl :)

New U.S. Army Kid hat

First family breakfast together in over a month

More snuggles & tears

Made him a family photo book as a gift

All together again!

Micah found Dad's backpack

Explaining more to Micah what goes on in chaplaincy school

Anna's belated b-day gift from us

I think she likes it!

Growing Up

Annabel Joy turns 2!

Morning started off with chocolate chip muffins with all their friends

Simple party later on (some of the friends had to leave)

YUM!

Ravenous brother who picked out what to eat

Opening gifts

Opening card from daddy

Caleb starts cereal!

"Is my shark bib scaring you mommy?"

Swim Lessons

This girl LOVES her lessons

He, on the other hand...not so much

 Happy face again AFTER lessons

Present from Popie & Grandma

 Micah & Anna showing Caleb the "ropes"

 Oodles of yummy cuteness

Looks like we got a thumb sucker on our hands, does NOT prefer the binky

Summer Fun

"Me love cookies"

Swim lessons have begun!

 Crystal comes to visit again and help.  How did I deserve such a friend?

 BIG teether on our hands

 "Daddy is gone for HOW long mommy?!"

 "Okay...well, as long as he comes back soon"

 Glen bought Army outfits.  Yep, we are "officially" military folks!

Love seeing them play more together...

Micah & Dad Skype for first time

A B&B Week

B&B is short for Bill & Barbara, which is my nickname for Glen's parents.  They flew in from NJ this past weekend and stayed with us for a week.  Had a wonderful visit together.  Glen was able to be there for all of the visit too, which was the first!  Here are capstones from the week:

Caleb gets to know Popie & Grandma

 Found Bumbo cheap on Craig's List, seems to fit...like a glove!

Park Day

 Beautiful tree.  Love yellow!

 A friendly game of golf perhaps?

Sweet, lovable Caleb

 Date night at D-Backs vs. Phillies game

Family Night, Western Style

We surprised B&B for their 40th wedding anniversary, Popie's B-day, and Mother's Day.  I (Shilo) used to go here as a little girl so it brought back fun memories.

 Petting Zoo (see baby goat on left, so cute)

 We had Bill arrested, aren't we mean?!

LOVE!

 Cutest cowboy!

A few more...

 Grandma & Anna

  Three generations

 Fishin'

Popie & Grandma buy Anna a trike!