Daraja

Another amazing opportunity we had this summer through our church was to watch the Daraja Children's Choir perform. Really no words can describe this experience. And then, to top it off, we were blessed even further by our sweet friends, the Ellefsons. They hosted two of the girls in their home and included us in dinner one night. We were able to get to know the beautiful girls, Rose and Sharlot, and even have a dance party with them!!!

It definitely was a night I will never forget and now, because of them, it has become a goal of mine to one day go on a mission trip to Africa. It was a life changing experience to meet these sweet girls, who came from nothing, but were so grateful, full of joy, and full of light because of their beautiful faith in Jesus.

Jungle Book

Elise had a blast participating in Summer Stars camp for the first time this summer. The kids auditioned for the play "Jungle Book", practiced it for a full week, and then performed on Saturday.

It was so sweet of the Brister boys to come and watch her performance.

We are very proud of our precious little elephant.

mini-reunion

Three of my best friends from high school were in town at the same time and so Suzanne and I were able to meet up with them and all of their kids for a little while. Excuse the VBS shirt- headed straight there from church. We have come a long way from high school and dance team, all spreading out at different colleges, but still love each other and manage to touch base now and then.

Loved seeing all of the kids - 12 between us - lined up in the grass! (Even though no one is looking at the camera!!!)

Love these girls!

VBS

Another highlight of our summer every year is Vacation Bible School. There is an amazing program at our church, and the volunteers go above and beyond to make sure that it is a very memorable week for the children. All three of mine wanted to know why it didn't last for more than 5 days!! :)

I helped with Elise's class this year, and our jr counselor was wonderful. The kids all loved him!

I was very proud of Elise for being extra helpful with her sweet schoolmate. He needed some extra love and compassion and she was very patient and comforting to him all week.

One of the most impactful days of the week was when the kids learned about the water conditions in Africa. 

We are blessed to now call this our church home.

Happy Father's Day!!!

David- you are the best!!!

Pool time

The majority of our summer was spent at the pool- something all three love to do! We are so grateful for our awesome neighborhood swim team and the great swim coaches!! The kids look forward to it every year!

Chicago Girls' Trip

My parents gift to the girls for their 6th and 8th birthdays was a trip to Chicago to the American Girl Store. We were blessed to be able to stay at my parent's close friends, the Martinez, gorgeous condo downtown- walking distance to the Navy Pier and the American Girl Store.  We were thrilled that Monique and Mae were able to meet us there!

Even though it was very overcast, we still had a great time exploring the Navy Pier.

For the girls the highlight of the trip was definitely the day we spent at American Girl. They had been saving their money, and that, combined with gift cards from Emmy and Pop allowed them to have enough to get come home with a new doll (Saige for Lila and Josephina for Elise), as well as let Julie and McKenna visit the salon.

Then David treated us to lunch in the American Girl cafe!!!

It was a very special day and one that (I hope) they will always remember.