Last week, we had some warm(er) temperatures. As in, above freezing. It’s amazing how warm near freezing temperatures feel compared to the standard -20 degrees Celsius (and colder) temperatures we normally get in January.

Sweet little E has not had much play time outside this winter. It’s just so cold, and it takes so long to get everyone bundled up to go out. Plus, it’s just so cold. Also, it’s cold. Did I mention that already?

Grandparents are grand, indeed. My parents came to visit for 2 weeks, and we all enjoyed having them here.

They spent countless hours coloring and drawing, telling tall tales (Grandpa), reading books, sledding, and playing with the kids. Priceless.

Growing up under my parents’ roof with four siblings, some things were pretty much guaranteed:

1. If you wanted a hot shower, you better get in the bathroom first. This would also ensure maximum time in front of the mirror with the hair-dryer, hairspray and the curling iron to get a totally awesome 80′s hairdo/hairdon’t.
2. If you asked Mom to go to a friend’s house, she would always ask, “Is your room clean?”
3. Our definition of a clean room was different than Mom’s. Our definition involved piling everything in the closet. The closet is like a separate room, ya’ know. Her definition included a clean closet and nothing under the bed.
4. Though there are many others, a big one is that there would always be good food. Both my parents are excellent cooks, and we were spoiled with tasty meals paired with fun times around the dinner table.

Ten years ago, God brought an amazing young lady into my life. Little did I know I would learn to love her as dearly as I have (though I have a long way to go). Little did I know our love would grow beyond the love of a newly married couple. Little did I know God would grow us so much—nearer to Him and to each other. Life has been a joy as she has stood by me and supported, encouraged, cared for, and loved me.

We’re changing things up around here. This look is just temporary until we can get things up and running with a new “face”, and some more new posts, too. See ya’ soon!