Adoption Celebration

Yesterday we ventured to State House for their annual Adoption Celebration in honor of November being National Adoption Month.  It was good to see the many faces that we know and have been on the same journey as well as new families who have stepped up to love kids in need.

We heard from the Govenor, the new director of DCYF, a ministry helping Foster kids out and a wonderful Foster mom speak about her journey.  It was cool to have Michaela join us too!  We then headed to Pizza Hut to celebrate with a pizza--yum!

        All of us on the steps of the state house in Concord.  Michaela took the picture.

Wood Days

We have been busy stacking 4 cords of wood in our new woodshed we built this summer. It's starting to get full just in time  for the cold that is suppose to roll in tonight.

We work 50 minutes and then break for a few minutes of fun before we head back to work.

New England is so seasonal and our lives are so connected to it. Fall brings putting up hay and wood for the long winter ahead. Running tank heaters to keep the horses water from freezing, preparing snow shovels, the snow blower and generator are too. Don't worry...we are also preparing the sleds for  the fun  snow ahead.

It is a busy time of year and we eagerly look ahead to te slower days of winter. But for now--back to work!

Last Night in Big Sandy

Our last night in Big Sandy, we had a huge bonfire where we made yummy s'mores and sang together. It was a very special evening as we looked around at the new friendships we had forged. Everyone had such a good time at the Academy and many plans were made for future trips and adventures.

We were impressed with the Alert men and the hard work and integrity they showed in their endeavors. It was good to hear the testimony of the leaders and their hearts to help dad lead their families and cast a vision.  We were challenged and encouraged...both good things.

The next morning after packing and a wrap up, we headed out for a 30+ hour drive back to New Hampshire. It was long and exhausting. We returned with renewed courage to dig into Alert and life following God.

Alert Tower

When you pull into the Alert campus you notice the climbing tower, even before the actual beautiful entrance. That tower is used for teaching climbing, high rescues and rappelling.

The tower ready for work.

Joe going off the high tower after doing several times at the lower level.

Brandon working down the tower cautiously.

Jason comes bounding down in his long legs.

Michael takes the plunge after much encouragement and was very glad her did.

Jumping Up and Down

Jelly stone campground where the Charles stayed had a giant pillow that the kids had great fun on...it's easier to see it than explain it...

Tiger Creek

In Texas, on one of our free days, we visited Tiger Creek near Tyler. It is a sanctuary for large cats--Tigers, Cougars, leopards and lions. They were beautiful and magnificent.

We also got to visit with te Charles...an added bonus.

Love in Action

Love...that strange amazing thing...love between this mama and daughter...amazing bond between this dad and daughter...love between siblings...love conquering all.

For the past 2 months, we have had a front row seat to see the Power of Love as the Lord slowly peeled back the layers to tear down the walls and close chapters to begin a new work. He healed old wounds and set her feet on new ground. New experiences, new challenges, digging into the truth...God is amazing in His work.

This new chapter begins and we were privileged to see the beginning...joy unspeakable joy.

Sweet memories....prayer warriors, horses and hay, the Deerfield Fair, the 250th celebration of Raymond, the beach, beautiful fall colors of NH, house church, Bible studies, short little walks that became amazingly long. We love you Sabrina and your sweet family.