Life is hard

The first half of this year was just plain hard, but God has been so good to not only carry us through but be our ever present strength. The Holy Spirit has been a comforter and shelter. Our life in Christ has taken on new meaning. So we press on towards "the goal of the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus" found in Phillipian 3. And I'll try to blog more along the way ;-)

Us, circa 2011

Daniel Cole, 1

Awe, our baby is over a year now! He is well loved by all and keeping us on our toes. He's a happy boy with lots of energy. He must have a high metabolism because he's eating constantly and it's a rare night that he doesn't wake, chug a full bottle, and crash back asleep. He started walking right at a year and now practically runs to keep up with Naomi, Luke, and Ava. He also loves to wrestle with Daddy. Daniel is a delight!

Luke, Age 3

This boy is hilarious and super charming! Just this morning he enthusiastically told Steve five times, "Dad, you gotta twy dees (pancakes). Day willy yummy!" Since these pictures in October, his hair has grown out in curls. He enjoys wrestling with Steve and still snuggles his blankie whenever he can get a chance. He loves hitting and throwing balls of all shapes and sizes. Thankfully, he is starting to get over his fear of heights. 

We are excited to see what the Lord has planned Luke!

Ava, Age 5

Ava is a spunky kindergartener who speaks her mind and loves to sing. She enjoys helping Daniel, coordinating playtime and being a princess. This year she's learning to read and enjoys doing her own hair.

I love that she is set in her way, and am challenged as I point her to the narrow path. 

Naomi, Age 7

Our first born is a lovely young lady. This year she has learned to cook, reads voraciously, and asks hard questions about faith and trusting Jesus. She is a treasure to guide and nurture.

PreChristmas Celebration

Lyle, Steve, and Marcus making paper airplanes

Stephanie, saint of dishes



The silly cousins, minus sleeping Daniel

Naomi was very excited to give Kim the ornament she made.

Stacie made this cute Woody vest for Luke!