Joost's 11th birthday party

I'm always lousy at remembering to take pictures at busy events--like my son's birthday party.  I only have one, but it's at our pool.  As you can tell from this picture (with my children's 16 cousins included) there is ALOT of energy involved.

Joost is a true blessing to us.  As we watch him grow, we are so happy to see his strides in academic success, strength of character, and godliness.  We pray that God will keep and protect him and cause him to grow in wisdom and favor with God and man as his years continue.  

We love you so much, Joost!

Family vacation 2014

It's July and time for our family vacation--just the six of us.  We love this week.  It's relaxed and laid back.  And it's a blessing to spend a week with the wonderful family God has been kind 

enough to place us in.

Our sweet little mermaids

Yep, there's always a big "Oh-oh!" when your son is running towards you with a bucket of water.

There's always the youngest who sleeps in Jeff's arms during the daily afternoon walk.

Every summer, Joost's birthday falls in the week of this vacation.

Henry seemed a bit sad that gifts weren't given to everyone.

 We're looking forward to next year!

4th of July 2014

 Sparklers and fun on the 4th of July!