BSF Leaders' Retreat

Every 3-4 years, BSF leaders converge in different locations throughout the world for a leaders' retreat. This year was my third retreat, and Dan's first. What an absolute joy to spend Valentine's weekend with 2,700 other followers of Jesus along with my husband. We walked through the book of Colossians, and my head and heart are still spinning with what the Lord is trying to teach me. My biggest takeaway from the weekend was finding security in my identity in Christ. I have struggled for so long with what others think of me. Even letting the opinions of others poison my own perception of who I am. I haven't arrived, but it was freeing to know that I am not who others think I am. I'm not even who I think I am. I am God's chosen, beloved child. And the ramifications of that are something I'll be chewing on for years to come, I'm sure.

The staff of BSF made this great snapshot video of the weekend. Most impressive is how they managed to feed 2,700 people in one room in just over an hour.

With some of my co-leaders in the Lincoln, NE Day Women's class

And the silly selfie my husband left on a friend's camera

Chinese New Year 2016 - The Year of the Monkey

Another Chinese New Year has come and gone, and while we haven't experienced the world's windfall of prosperity, we're pretty content and blessed with the wealth of love and laughter in our home. The Families with Children from China party was once again a huge success - and Annie really enjoyed the Lion Dancers (with earplugs to drown out the cymbals and drums.) Both girls were absolutely lovely in their silks, and we all left well fed.

Winner Winner...

And what was I doing while the storms were raging? Discovering just how easy it is to use my pressure canner to can chicken and homemade chicken stock. Yum! Can't wait to get some more chicken on sale and really stock up my pantry. This made the most divine chicken and dumplings in a matter of minutes a few nights later.

Groundhog Day Blizzard

Once again, the groundhog couldn't see his shadow for all the snow that fell. It wasn't as big of a blizzard as anticipated, but it was enough for a few days off school, a cute little snowman (sorry, no picture) and a few runs downhill on the sleds. Even Mom and Dad got out and rode the sled runs a few times. 

Saturday Scones

My mom is the queen of Saturday scones. She makes a different kind every week, and my dad is happy to sample. I miss my mom and Saturday scones. But I was thrilled when Dayna brought a cookbook home from the library and made these cranberry orange gems all by herself. Even better...she cleaned up after herself!

D.A.R.E.

Dayna and her classmates had their D.A.R.E. graduation on Friday. A local police officer has come to their class every week this year to talk to the students about making good decisions, resisting peer pressure, and knowing the dangerous affects of issues like drugs, tobacco, alcohol, and internet safety.

49 Years!

Just had to give a shout out to this incredible couple who has set the bar high in their example of a marriage that honors God first, each other second, and then their family. Their priorities and selflessness for so many years have been an inspiration, and I'm proud to call them my parents. Happy Anniversary, Mom and Dad!