Lubbock and the Big "D"

Last month we took, what would be for us, the greatest (in time spent away from home) vacation that we have ever taken. For 10 days we covered nearly 1,300 miles and stayed in 3 hotels in 9 nights. Though it was littered with the daily need for antibiotics, the constant ache newly budding teeth, eye drops every four hours, inhaler puffs twice a day, and all of the interesting challenges that hotels bring to the lodging of small children, it proved to be a very fulfilling and strengthening time for our family. We spent some great time with family. We spent amazing time with friends. We were able to observe many corners of God's creative mind in nature that we rarely (or never) get to see.

Our first stop was at the Amarillo Zoo.

He had that pointer going a lot this trip.

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   This is Alvin's new favorite animal. The "Skink".

   

Next, we headed to Lubbock to surprise our dear grandparents for their 80th birthday. It was a very beautiful event, they were completely surprised, and we were given opportunity to meet many people that knew Alvin when he was young and had many nice things to say about his grandparents.

Here is the birthday boy (H.A.) and girl (Barbara), Alvin's grandparents.

The kids really appreciated the dance floor.

 

There was nice time spent with Aunt Sage, Big Alvin, Gwen, and Aunt Kerry also.

 



From left: (Alvin, Sage, Gwen, H.A., Barbara, Kerry, Jordyn, Crystal, Caleb, and Alvin)

This marked only the midpoint of the trip. We then went to Dallas for the "Teach Them Diligently Conference". It was a glorious chance to be realigned, rejuvenated, revived, and reminded of the goals, most efficient methods, and Godward call of being parents that are choosing to teach our children. We met some friends there that made it that much sweeter.

30th floor at the Sheraton Dallas Hotel.

We also visited the Dallas Aquarium. One of the coolest things we have ever done.

9 Months!

She is trying to make a crab face.

SHARK TUNNEL!!

Caleb just had to get a shark from the gift shop.

Lastly, we went with our very close friends to the Dallas Zoo.

 

 Glad to be back.

 

A&C

4th of July

On the 4th, we attempted something that we have not yet done. We thought (Alvin thought), "we have two small children, no time to do even half of the stuff that we need to do on a daily basis, and even less energy to accomplish those things...we should throw a party for about 25 of our closest friends and family." It was the first thing like this we have ever done, and it was a lot of preparation. In the end, though, it was a lot of fun. We got to spend some time with some very special people that we would have otherwise not been able, Jordyn had some friends to play with, and we were allowed the very precious opportunity to serve others. Here are some shots from that time.

Not sure why Caleb is pulling his shirt up...

Cousins!!

Caleb and Clara Jane.

Chad and Emma.

Jordyn with her Lala.

Caleb and Papaw.
(This is the cheesiest smile Caleb has ever made)

Aunt Charley.

Jordyn with her Papaw.

Jordyn and Mamaw.

Well, all in all it was a very fun night. Sure, the trees blocked the firework show and the burgers were way overcooked...but we have much to be thankful for. The Lord has shown us His favor and poured out His blessings. He has shown my family that true rest, hope, peace, and true freedom are found only in Jesus Christ. Though many run around heralding "freedom" that is no freedom at all, (bondage that poses as freedom), for freedom is not given by government, military action, or supreme court decision. However, the one Christ sets free is free indeed. Praise God He has caused us to walk in true freedom!

A&C