Full of JOY

To our great delight, on August 26, 2021, baby Joy was born. 

Isn't she cute?

Princess Emily is one proud mama. 

So sweet! 

Zach was thrilled!

He has a special bond with baby Joy. 

He demonstrates to the donkeys how to eat the hay. 

These are the days. 💗💗

Randy blessed us with some hay. 

We've also got the joy of seeing our neighbor's horses who stop by to say hi.

We knew Emily was pregnant but we weren't sure when she was due so it was a complete surprise when one morning we woke up and there was another donkey on our property. #4

The kids were OVERJOYED!! 

It was natural that they all decided on her name. Funny, I always thought that if I ever had another girl, I'd name her Joy. Never in a million years did I think it would ever be a DONKEY.😁 

Baby Joy is now running fast with Zach and they are both having the time of their lives.

Last Days of Summer

This last month has been crazy busy with the starting of school and all. the. things. 

I don't know how time gets away from me so fast but here we are, at the start of a new season. 

Fall is definitely in the air around here and we are loving the cooler temps in the mornings. 

I managed to capture quite a few pictures from August and the end of our summer. 

Summer rain and thunder storms were a surprise to us but it sure kept everything green.

   

They thought it was fun to swim in the rain. 

Still can't get over how many animals we see in a day. 

The kids love it. 

Walking on water??

Little brothers are the best... most of the time. 😜

Sibling love. 💕

SMACK! 💋

The girls have enjoyed having their friends over. The donkeys are always a hit. 

Awww. 💗

The sweet Braun sisters came over to hangout for dinner and a movie. 

Spending time with their friend, Katherine. They walked to the lake. 

It's hard to believe we've been in TX now for 9 months. In many ways, it seems like we just got here. Our lives look so different from our life in CA. We marvel everyday at the beauty and nature God allows us to see all around us. We've lived here for 3 seasons now, each one distinct in its own way, especially coming from Southern California. I'm excited to see what this new season holds. Already the leaves are falling and changing colors. We welcome all of it! 

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!