So Long Ordinary

First of all, you may have noticed some odd goings-on here with my blog and also with Sean's.  Somehow, we got a virus-y type bug on our computer that was making blogging nearly impossible (plus, we were just insanely busy so it has taken us awhile to even be able to sit down in front of the computer).  Anyway, Sean figured out the issue and now we're back in business!  Woo-hoo!  We are still busy - and will be - for the next month as we prepare to go on furlough in late January, but we're both trying to catch up with our blogging.  Be sure to check back in here and also regularly visit Sean's blog for even more pictures! More than two months ago, on October 7, we celebrated our Madison's 7th birthday.  We reserved a room at the local "fancy" hotel with direct access to probably the cleanest, nicest pool in the area.  It was a special treat for all of us! For as long as I can remember, Maddie has been a huge fan of pie crust.  She'll steal it fro...

I'm just gushing over here.  My second-born took a big step today and made a decision for Christ!  We were having a talk in the car on the way to the store about heaven and next thing I know she's over there quietly folding her hands and whispering a prayer to Jesus. When she was done, she looked over at me with a big smile and said, "I have so many blessings from God, Mommy!" Indeed. Happy Born Again Day, Madison Elizabeth!  We love you so much.  

Paige had a blast on the water (without Mom there to ruin the fun) and I'd say the older kids had even more fun, if that were possible.  Again, I'm just glad I wasn't there.  They all came back alive, sopping wet, and giddy with excitement.  Can't really argue with that now, can I? Life jackets, Becca.  Life jackets. Maddie and Brooklyn take a turn. Then the boys jump on board! It's getting more fun! Uh-oh! And... they're off! Let's play spot the kids in the ginormous Borneo river! Life jackets. And really great Daddies watching out for the kids while also helping them have the time of their lives and make memories they'll never forget.  

The other day, when Sean was cutting our grass, he came across this little guy.  Our animal-loving, tomboy-ish, fearless Blondie was really excited about it!  This was a cute little fella with a long, long tail and tiny little body.  Being an MK (missionary kid) is the perfect gig for Madison - she can hold, pet, raise, adopt, and smother all sorts of interesting creatures!

We celebrated Maddie's fifth birthday yesterday...here's what she had to say about herself.  So cute! (I think Sean has been a little over-zealous in indoctrinating these kids in future career choices.  It's time for me to step up my game, apparently....) What is your favorite activity? Getting presents for my birthday.  Play with my other toys that are special. What is your favorite color? Purple. What is your favorite toy? My unicorn. Who are your best friends? Caleb, Reece, and Abby What do you want to be when you grow up? Pilot! Why? Because it's awesome. What does Daddy do all day? Go fly airplanes. What does Mommy do all day? Take care of kids. What do you do all day? Play. What are your favorite books? Puplicious and my Bible and my card that has two pages What are your favorite movies? Beverly Hills Chihuahua 2, Dumbo, Nemo, Pinnochio and Tinkerbell What are your favorite foods? Umm...healthy food?  Watermelon, grapes, blueberries, cherries, strawbe...