Now is the Month of Maying

May was a whirlwind month filled with new babies, special celebrations, t-ball, working on the yearbook, hanging out with family and friends, ballet, and the busyness that always seems to accompany the end of the school year. Here's a glimpse of our "Month of Maying."

Enjoying Mother's Day with my mom

The Red Robins

I was able to coach with my friend Shelly - our kids made up half of the team

T-ball togetherness

A future softball star

Hannah hitting so hard she took out the T

Ava's castle creation

A big sister and little sister playdate with Grace and Anna

The new big sister Ajla

Hannah is glad she finally gets to hold Alissa

My sweet little niece Alissa

It's a stick up!

Cousin lovin'

I gave a presentation on China to two classes where I teach. It was so fun. The kids loved doing the lion dance the best.

My dear Chinese student Anna

Aunt Marlene meeting Alissa

Ava's turn to hold Alissa

Mixing up a big batch of homemade chai

Ava playing with her buddy Addie

Caeden, Ava and Addie

May included some hot days - way to cool off ladies!

Yes, May was a busy month...no wonder we're so tired! Sweet dreams Doug and Ava!

Ballerina Hannah

May means recital time. This year Hannah's ballet class danced to "A Mighty Fortress" by Christy Nockels. It is such a beautiful song. Hannah looked so poised and graceful on stage - I was moved to tears...I think mainly because she all of a sudden seems so grown up. She's really starting to look like a ballerina. We're so proud of you Hannah! You danced so beautifully! XOXO

Hannah's awesome teacher Miss Lauren with her new baby in the background

When Two Doors Close, Another One Opens

This year marks the end of two schools that have been a big part of our lives - my teaching career and Hannah's schooling experience. Both of the schools are consolidating with another Christian school to form one larger new school. While we're excited about the opportunities the new school will bring, we are also sad to say goodbye to the school buildings that each hold so many memories. Fortunately, the closing of these schools won't ever take away the precious memories that occured within their walls.

Hannah's school - I also taught/aided here for 7 years and my dad and aunt went here

The students and staff of Hannah's school - I had the chance to play photographer again and create the final yearbook

My dad pointing to his class photo

I was able to reconnect with former students at the celebrations for both schools.

Alissa Madison

Today I became an Auntie again! My younger brother Mark and his wife Mirsada are the proud new parents of a precious baby girl. Alissa Madison arrived this afternoon via c-section. She is adorable...and I'm not even biased. :-) The girls and I went to the hospital after school to greet the newest member of our family. There was quite a crew gathered at the hospital...guess we're all pretty excited! Big sister Ajla was so sweet and tender with her new little sister. I loved seeing Alissa in Mark's arms...he's such a proud Daddy - I think he's already smitten. We praise God for the gift of Alissa Madison!

Great is His Faithfulness

Last night, we witnessed this splendid sunset as we drove home. Then, on the way to church this morning, Ava said, "Look, a rainbow." We didn't see it at first and wondered what she was talking about. Suddenly we spotted a gorgeous rainbow in the western sky. I wanted to quick snap a picture (I can carry my new, small camera in my purse for moments like this - very handy), but my very wise 7 year old daughter said I should focus on driving instead. :-) So...I wasn't able to capture it, but we arrived at church safely.

It's amazing how much a beautiful sunset or rainbow can lift your spirits. I was thinking about that as we sang "Great is Thy Faithfulness" at church. As we sang the words, I was thinking about the many ways he has blessed me, not only with beautiful glimpses of His creation, but also with a wonderful family and amazing friends. As we sang the last verse, Hannah reached over and wrapped her arm around me. Throughout the verse and refrain, she hugged me tight and I fought back tears. Yes, Lord, Great is Your faithfulness!

Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth
Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide;
Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow,
Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside!

Great is thy faithfulness!
Great is thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning new mercies I see.
All I have needed thy hand hath provided;
Great is thy faithfulness, Lord unto me!

Jesus Loves Me