Peace

After posting on joy Thursday,  Friday brought a major tragedy and a number of minor let downs. First I turned on the TV/DVD player to do my morning work out and became aware of an overnight shooting at the premiere of Batman in Colorado that left 12 dead and over 50 injured. Why I asked myself would a young man unleash such violence on others and what went wrong in his life that lead him to such violence. As the day went on John didn't feel well and missed out on a get together with friends, Elle learned she didn't get the job at Children's she had interviewed for and Gary is still dealing with health issues. Joy? Well I sure didn't feel joy but I can honestly say I felt peace. I know God is in control and will bring good out of all these situations. In reflecting I believe peace and joy are both fruits of trust in God. And so...Jesus, I trust in you!

Joy

Tonight I am filled with joy! Why...simply because I love being a wife and a mom. I love watching my children growing up. I am at peace with imperfection. I have chased joy and it has eluded me and at last I have slowed down, quieted myself, accepted things as they are and voila (I think that is how you spell it) JOY!

1/2 Way

As of today we are officially 1/2 way through summer. I hope the second half is as full of wonderful memories as the first half has been. We have been blessed to have shared many days with Elle (zoo, Easton and hanging out at home), family reunions with the Korte, Theiss, and Rooney families, LEGO Builder's Club here, Hot TAMALE bike ride, Elizabeth's wedding, Galion concert in the park, YES, Fortnight for Freedom at St Peter's, Thomas's belt test,  Seton conference, Marion County Fair, Good Guys car show, life without power for almost 4 days, cleaning out the basement, finding little treasures at garage sales  especially disney glasses and ice cream maker :) and relaxing with books and a mudslide on the deck...thank you God for all these wonderful memories that are truly blessings in our lives!

Hot Tamale 2012...16 miles...We Did It!

End of the School Year Fun

 noodle wars in the pool for the last day at the YMCA

 John aka Shaggy on the last day of school!

Galion Homeschooler's extreme game fun

Icing On The Cake

John had a great first year at Lexington High School. He was happy, made some good friends and did well academically. This science award was a little icing on the cake. Way to go John... we are proud of you!

The Big 2-0!