Hello there!

This week the pace of life has suddenly quickened as school begins and our fall schedule comes together. But after finishing my summer classes last month I had an incredible, cup-filling  3-week break. I am grateful for the Lord’s goodness in giving me this special time with family and friends. I took so many pictures and made so many memories.

First I spent a few days with my aunt Kathy, uncle Jim, and cousin Anna at their home. Then we girls went up to see our grandparents at their farm. Our families joined us there a few days later.

Anna is one of the loveliest girls I know, inside and out. I am grateful for the friendship we’ve had and deepened through the years. I love being able to walk through every season of life together. Spending a week together encouraged me more than I can say.

I will share some photos and highlights from my time with Anna and family. :)

Going on an 18 mile bike ride out on the katy trail.

Visiting the largest tree in Missouri!

Deep talks.

Singing ‘Blessings’ while driving along old country roads. Bliss!

Midnight walks under the starry sky. *note: the flash on my camera was blindingly bright, hence the closed eyes. :p

Staying up late watching chick flicks.

Doing makeup and hair together.

Game of spoons.

Giggling in the dark.

Matching outfits without even meaning to.

Special one-on-one time with Grandparents.

Raspberry picking.

English breakfast tea in the mornings.

Being goofy. Hehe.

Spending one morning at a volleyball camp.

Seeing how fast we can snap green beans for Grandmother. :)

Picking out Grandad’s B-day cake for a family party.

Discussing the royal family with my wonderful aunt.

Making (and eating!) chocolate avacado pudding.

Discovering old photos of my daddy and uncles when they were little boys.

Listening to the stories of many a peice of clothing that my grandmother hand-stitched.

Walks at dusk.

Encouraging devotions and Bible discussions.

Looking at pictures together and catching up on each other’s lives.