Anniversary Getaway 2019

For our 14th wedding anniversary we went to the Smoky mountains. The first day we did a small hike the baskins Creek trail and saw a small bear up high in a tree. The next day we woke up at dawn and prepared for our big hike. For several years I've been wanting to hike the Mount LeConte trail to see The Lodge at the top. I had heard it is a fun hike but a full day hike. We left at 8 a.m. and it took 3 hours to climb to the top and we hiked around the top for 2 hours. The views were breathtaking and beautiful. I did get stung by a bee when we got to the top but other than that small mishap it was a fun day.  We were able to make the round-trip in 8 hours and were able to get back to our car by 4.  I'm always amazed at the beauty of God's creation as well as the stillness of the woods. We ended our trip with a hike of Andrew's bald near clingmans dome at a higher elevation. The days were so beautiful and peaceful and though our legs were sore from the hike the day before it was so wonderful to be in God's creation.  I am so thankful for 14 years with Michael and the chance to do this together while my parents came and watched the kids. We even had a chance to listen to a fascinating book called Boys Arift that talks about our modern culture and what is happening with boys. It was definitely a challenging read.

Applesaucing

Reds

Festival

We are trying to squeeze in as much outdoor fun before the weather turns cold and hits winter weather. Thankful for some free fall fun activities. Michael's grandmas retirement community does a free fall festival every year that is so nice. They really treat the family as well.

Friends

I am thankful for how the Lord has provided some new international friends that I've been praying for for the last few years. I'm thankful for their kindness and friendship.  The Lord is do kind to answer a prayer maybe not in the timing that I thought but a few years later.

Young's Dairy

Soccer

Jeremiah playing soccer this Fall.  We have really appreciated the YMCAs focus on fun and learning instead of the crazy competitiveness at this young age in many leagues.  We also are so glad they do not play on Sundays!

Cincinnati Observatory

On Thursday night, we went to the Cincinnati Observatory to view their stargazing night. We were able to look through huge telescopes and saw the rings of Saturn as well as Jupiter and its moons. One of my favorite parts was seeing the moon with its deep craters so up close. It was a reminder of how big God is and how small, a brief spec we are on this Earth. I need these reminders. We have been memorizing Psalm 8 and echo, what is man that you are mindful of him and the son of man that you care for him. Oh Lord our Lord how majestic is your name in all the Earth.

Apple picking....