Paint War!

 

Youth group at church started off the new school year this week with the much awaited Paint War! 

The evening consisted of pizza, pops, and of course, lots of paint! 

10th grade girls rock! 

We love our church for various reasons but youth group ranks as one of the tops. I cannot say enough about the quality of the youth program. The opportunities for serving and spiritual growth have been plentiful this summer and we couldn't be happier for the girls. They've had a busy but awesome summer and the friends they've made have been such a blessing. Can't wait to see all that God has planned for them this year! 

Zach's First Day of School

The day came and went and we all survived. 😜

He was actually excited to start school. 

He looks so big here!

That's my heart right there. 💘

My big little man. 

Aww, he walked into his new classroom with so much confidence. 

We've started a new chapter in our family and that includes Zach going to school for the first time ever.

For seven years, he's been under my wings but now, it's time for him to get the help he needs through other teachers. He's attending one of the best public schools in our area. We've only heard great things about their Special Education program. Already, the teachers have been such a God-send. I'm certain God brought us to Texas for me to learn how to surrender in so many areas of my life- Zach being one of them. 

My hands are open, Lord.

 

That doesn't mean I'm still not fearful, apprehensive, or cautious but nevertheless, I'm learning to trust You in spite of how I feel because I know You have GREAT THINGS planned for Zach's future. I know you are a God who restores, redeems, makes new, and transforms. You are a Sovereign God who loves Zach more than I do.

And You see the whole picture, where as I can only see the beginning. I managed to hold it together until I got home yesterday and then cried in Morgan's arms. God is so good y'all and His plans are for our good. 

Praying for a phenomenal year of growth and learning for you, buddy! 

We love you so much, Zach!      

Yet in all these things, you are more than a conqueror in Christ Jesus who loves you! 

-Romans 8:37     

End of Summer Pool Party

We hosted a pool party for Faith and Grace's youth group last week. 

We offered ice cream sundaes with fun toppings for a snack. 

Sweet girls.

Always laughing and having fun. 

They played some pool games. 

And chilled out while chatting. 

Their time ended with piano playing and singing together. Music to my ears! 

A fun way to close out the summer and welcome a new year.

These girls are ready to take on 10th grade! 

July Recap

I'm recapping July with one of my favorite Ronald Reagan quotes. 

Freedom is always worth fighting for.

Who knew rabbits could swim? 

Saw this little guy swim the whole length of our pool. 

Zach loves all his new animal friends.

 

The girls became best pals with Wanda & Randy's granddaughters, Eva & Bliss. 

They got dressed up for a church youth event... 80's/Retro Night. 

At Interskate! 

They had so much fun that night! 

Zach's been frequenting our local library and on the hunt for good books. 

We had some friends over for lunch and to swim after church. 

Enjoying some fellowship time with the Rehbehn's and Webb's.

Faith's garden is doing so well. 

Roy came out to visit for a few days. 

He was out enjoying his morning coffee and "supervising" Morgan. 😁

 

That's my cowboy, mowing the yard. 🤠

The boys cooled off in the pool. 

Kinda hard to see but we spotted a deer in the front yard one morning. It was very exciting! 

When Uncle Roy left, the boys went to a nearby park to watch the planes take off. 

Wanda invited me and a couple of other friends from bible study to a special fundraising luncheon benefitting Refuge for Women. What an incredible opportunity to hear about and support this important non-profit.

 

New lifeguard on duty. 😎

The Flower Mound CAC (our local Community Activity Center) is a fun place to be in the summer.

We've been enjoying the waterslides, lazy river, pools, and splash pads. 

Between getting settled and moving in, July went by way too fast. We were in the low 100's last week and it was pretty hot but last night it rained so today, we're only in the high 80's. It's so NICE! Locals say it's been a mild summer so far. The Texas sun is NO JOKE but coming from the California desert, the summer hasn't been too bad for us... yet!

We're wrapping up the end of our summer soon (EEKS!) and starting off on some new adventures. 

Can't wait to see what August has in store for us. 

Praying for the Lord's favor and mercy to cover all of it!