Trey - Dedication

What touches the heart? When family and friends share in the miracle of birth and the act of acknowledging a precious baby is a gift from God.

Family and friends shared in Jodi & Chris' public thanks to the Lord for their precious son. They acknowledged that with out God's Word they wouldn't have a blue print for raising their son. Loving Trey unconditionally and learning as they go was how they describe it.

We thank God for all the great weather during all the traveling of family. Also for the health of Great Grand Parents and their participation in the event.

Wonder, Amazement, Thankfulness, & Joy!

A miracle from above - God has blessed our family with
"Trey".
His given name, Christopher Anthony III, He weighed in at
8 lbs. 14 ozs. and was 20.5" long.
Gift to Jodi & Christopher.
His grandpa Ehlen is on cloud nine!

In labor his mom said "He or She better be cute with all the contractions I am having" ;O) Grandpa J. was pacing so much I thought we would witness the tile being worn out where he walked. Grandma E. kept changing her guess' of when and what the baby was....
I just kept praying God be present. The day was long and filled with milestones. The hospital staff great with our children. Uncle Justin arrived in time to surprise his sister with a huge hug. Baby Trey and him had a few conversations. There is a video on youtube search... Hillcrest Youth Pastor, "Little Trey".

We love you all, Family & Friends. Blessings! Keep this precious family in your prayers.

Holiday Adventures... more Joy!!!!

Great Niece & Nephews singing you a personal holiday greeting! We had a wonderful time sharing in old memories, watching the children try walking on their stilts Uncle Don made them and we laughed until tears appeared as Uncle Don opened his white elephant gift of a "pair of cows". Then... low and behold, Lori stole them from him on her turn to pick... Aunt Franny had spruced up her basement and everyone brought great things to eat! We were surprised by oldest nephew, Trevor showing up. He had been away playing army. Our New York family members were'nt here but will be in this coming weekend!!!! We thank our Father in heaven for family.

Each "Joyous Day"

Where did November go? Well... I know where we went in November. It was our annual trip to the hills of Tennessee to celebrate Thanksgiving with my brother and sister. Though I do miss the awesome shopping times with my kids when in MI on the 'biggest shopping day of the year', it brings great joy to see my siblings from far away.

Many people have been dreading the holidays. When I ask why they refer to not wanting to be around family. I praise God that he always wants to be in and around us. I thank Him for our children and their spouses. I am learning to thank Him for placing us around those who chose to be unhappy most of the time. We can pray for anyone, anytime. The holidays hustle and bustle tries to ruin the tenderness and caring people need.

That night when Mary and Joseph arrived in Bethlehem, I bet they too felt lonely and afraid.
God provided and still does.

The Wonder of It All....

We journeyed north for our 30th Wedding Anniversary and it was awesome scenery. Crystal Mountain view was something I've never experienced at the peak of Fall during the year.

Our family is experiencing so many happenings. Jodi and Christopher are watching as God's little miracle in Jodi's tummy grows and grows. The nursery is painted and the closet cleaned out. The crib is up and a dresser / changing table is being created.
Chris is diligently working on the last phase of his masters degree.

In NY our Newlywedds, Justin & Tiffany, (celebrated Six month Anniv.), successfully spruced up their laundry room and replaced the washer & dryer that were soiling and eating their clothing with a new set.
Previously we visited them and Don, Jay & and Tiffany installed a beautiful new kitchen window.

It is in awesome wonder that I see everyone learning new capabilities. We all have inside of us abilities to start and finish tasks we never thought possible.

My rush to accomplish my to do list each day almost squ ished my priceless time with God.
I thank Him for all that He is. God knows all that I am. Thankfully I am His.
Hunger for His will brings direction and renewing His desires in me to love and encourage others around us.

GREAT NEWS... our niece, Emily, is coming to our area to student teach! This Thursday is her interview. She will be with our dogs while we are at beach this winter.

My verses on my mind....directed at my life.

Ephesians 4:21-23 (New International Version)

21Surely you heard of him and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus. 22You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; 23to be made new in the attitude of your minds;

Gordon Keillor ~ Hero, Mentor, Now and Forever....

We love you Gordon. We will catch up with you in God's timing. Please give Hugs to our loved ones who made the choice of believing in Jesus. Thank you for your example,

the memories, and sharing your family with us!

Hebrews 12:2Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Kacey is IN TRAINING!!!!

Kacey's Journey has began official training!
From what we understand, it is four months long with the meeting of her student at the end of that with thirty days of hands on with student.
Thank you all for supporting our puppy raising adventures.
Leader Dog for the Blind of Rochester is an awesome organization.
Any other "Puppy Raisers" out there???? Search LD Website and go beyond your comfort zone.
It is a wonderful experience.

psj