Twelve years of Grey Max...

Grahm was showing me what he was making on the 3D printer.

Grahm liked the stuffie I brought back from the Philippines!

I was so thankful I made it back from the Philippines in time for Grey's family birthday dinner. A little jet lagged but I wouldn't want to be anywhere else! Mark made delicious breakfast sandwiches. I didn't have time to make a cake but Harmon's has a wonderful bakery.

Tiff had "jet lag" because she stayed up until Cash got home from the Sadie's dance. Cash told her to just go to bed and she replied that she will always wait up for him to come home. That's what moms do!

Sweet Rue Rue!

Grandpa loves to play catch with Grahm.

Could Grey be any sweeter?!

Mark warming up to play Happy Birthday on the guitar!

I wrote this for Grey a few years ago but it's worth sharing again. He's a delightful young man and it's a great privilege to be his grandma. I love him so much.

October 22, 2023

"It's birthday week for Grey! He always waits patiently for his turn. Grey was born during my favorite season and we were happy to have him join our family on October 22. It's hard to believe he will be nine years old! I can't remember when green became his favorite color but I still smile when I think about him saying, "It's my favorite green." Grey is charming and people will often notice that. He has a kind and gentle heart. However, he can also hold his own against the big boys. I was especially proud of Grey during Fall soccer, it was a difficult season. The team maybe had extra players to sub in for one or two games. It was so hot for several of the games and the grass was always way too long. But Grey never gave up. He played even when he was hot, thirsty, and tired. Grey is a team player, a good sport, and he played with great defense. He had some powerful kicks and can run really fast. Grey can do hard things and he will continue to do great things. We had a wonderful birthday date and sleepover on Thursday. I may have got him a few of his favorite green clothes. He has my heart and I couldn't love him more. Happy Birthday Gus!"

Twelve pictures in honor of our Grey!

"I'm almost always happy" - Grey

One last walk...

One last walk on my favorite trail before the weather changes. There's something about this place that never gets old-the familiar views, crisp air, and quiet moments to just breathe in. I will miss these walks when winter settles in. I'm grateful for the memories made here and for one more beautiful day on a trail I love so much.

King David's prayer of thanksgiving to God...

“But who am I, and who are my people, that we could give anything to you? Everything we have has come from you, and we give you only what you first gave us!” 

1 Chronicles 29:14 (NLT) 

“But who am I, and what is my people, that we should be able to offer so willingly after this sort? for all things come of thee, and of thine own have we given thee.” 

1 Chronicles 29:14 (KJV) 

Last games of the season...

It's always a little bittersweet when soccer season comes to an end. I love watching Grey, Grahm, and the other boys on the teams play their hearts out, encourage one another, and never give up.

I especially love watching my son coach them. Mark is teaching them so much more than soccer-how to work as a team, handle wins and losses, be good sports, and keep showing up and giving their best.

Thoughtful note for Coach Williams...

I'm grateful that I could be on the sidelines cheering them on. I'm always proud of Grey and Grahm.

Savoring Fall...

I love Fall most of all!