ECFA Bowl Classic 2013

A totally fun afternoon spent bowling with some amazing friends in support of the children and families which Evangelical Child and Family Agency (ECFA) serves. I didn't do a good job of capturing everyone in pictures, 'cause I was too busy trying to get a bowling score greater than 100, but here are a couple of images from the day. Thanks to all who CAME and all who contributed $$ towards this event. You are each appreciated!

 

 

 

Book Review: The Tutor's Daughter

This one was good. Julie Klassen is an excellent author with the ability to combine history, mystery and a hint of romance into an intriguing storyline.I have enjoyed all of Klassen's books.

Emma Smallwood is the tutor’s daughter. She and her father travel to Ebbington Manor to teach the younger two Weston sons. Emma remembers the elder two brothers, Phillip and Henry, from their years at her father’s academy. Soon after the Smallwoods arrive at the Westons, strange things start to happen & Emma is determined to discover the details.

 

The characters are well-developed and, in general, very like-able (or not) depending on the author's intent. While I was not familiar with the location (Cornwall in the 1800s), it was described in such a way as to add depth to the story. I enjoyed learning of this place infamous for shipwrecks; espeically the impact upon the local community something which I never had considered before. The story was well-paced, without too many sub-plots and just enough surprise twists, including who really holds the key to Emma's heart.

This is a great read for any age, mid-teen and older, especially if you like Jane Austen-like writing.

I was given a free copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest review. 

My Favorite Little Guy

I am feeling especially thankful to be this little guy's mommy. Even as my heart remembers the little ones who have no safe place to call home. Praying today that every child, every orphan, every individual near & far will know they are loved by a God who is bigger than the messy-ness of this life.

Winter Blowout 2013

What a great idea! X-man's preschool had a Family Night/Winter Blowout event last night with 14 inflateables, balloon artists, jugglers, face painting and FREE cotton candy! I thought the boys would be super-stoked about trying cotton candy for the first time. BOTH of them found it inedible; go figure! The M.Girls joined us for the fun night INSIDE and out of the bitter cold.

X-man loved the idea of a peanut butter & honey sandwich for DINNER (since its typically LUNCH fare).

These guys were pretty amazing! The adults in the room were slightly concerned about the possibility of the firesticks setting off the fire alarms. Or was it that we were concerned they did NOT trigger the alarms? Kind of 50/50.

Why the ?-mark. "A" is currently a guest in our house thru the Safe Families for Children ministry; cannot post picture publicly. The kiddos were so patient standing in line for these balloons. By the way, the girls each got a puppy; the boys got swords! :)