Back to the OC

  I mentioned that we went back down to SoCal last week.  We were in town for Mike's grandfather's memorial service.  This was the 97 year old grandpa that we were so fortunate to get to see in February when we were down for Disney.  That visit is even more precious to us now.  We were also thankful to be able to get down there again to go to the service.  It was an emotional 4 days, but a nice time be together with all of Mike's family.

  We are getting used to the 6 hour drives it seems.  Although, I couldn't find her other boot when we stopped for our bathroom break. :)

  The days before the service, we spent our mornings at Huntington Beach and evenings with family for dinner.  We haven't seen Mike's parents since last October and his brother since last summer.  The beach is the perfect playground for all!

  We stayed with our friends Mike and Rachel again and on thursday night when we got home, we walked in on the core groups for Young Life that happen at their place.  All 3 of the older kids introduced themselves in front of all of the college kids.  I wish I could have gotten better pics, but it was too dark. 

  I couldn't believe Joel got up and did this!

  Such a thriving ministry that we have gotten to witness a few times when we've visited.  Huge shout out to Mike and Rachel, they are amazing!!

Back to the beach on friday!

All of the grandchildren were there this time.  At the end of this month their ages will be 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8.  Our kids are the 2-4-6-8!!

  All of the cousins getting to play together was especially nice.  In the midst of mourning a loss, life was especially noticeable to me this past weekend.  Young, vibrant, healthy, fresh, energetic, joyful, and fun life.  I was feeling particularly blessed by the 4 full-of-life children of mine.

  Hannah sang for part of the service with Grammy playing the piano.  They practiced the night before and thought of doing this together the morning of the service.  Hannah is such a rock star!  I'm so proud.  What a precious moment never to be forgotten!