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Spring Update

March and April have been busy in our household. Benjamin started preschool two days a week, which he absolutely loves. It's so fun to listen to his stories about his days away from me, even though his stock answer when we ask him what he did that day is "I don't know!" After a little coaxing, we are able to get a general idea of his day's activities, such as painting (I love when he brings home artwork!), games (he taught Nathan and I how to play leap frog-I had to dissuade him from playing with baby brother.) and snack...we always hear about snack. I think it's his favorite part of school. Benjamin is still attending Awanas each Wednesday evening and I so enjoy listening to him sing "Jesus Loves Me" while eating dinner, taking a bath, playing with his toys, and even while going potty. It truly warms my heart.

Nathan has been taking a welding class at Cuesta two nights a week, which he thoroughly enjoys. Even though it keeps him away from home more often then he'd like, he is learning valuable skills that I know he is itching to put to good use. He already has a list of projects he'd like to tackle with his welder. He remarked the other day what a different feeling it is to go to school because he wants to, not because he has to. It does make the entire experience a lot more joyful and a lot less stressful.

I, too, have been busy twice a week. Thursdays I toss a water bottle in my bag and head to yoga for an hour and a half of pure me time...glorious! Tuesday nights one can find me at Ladies Bible Study, which I just can't seem to get enough of these days. A fire has been lit inside me, one that urges me to demonstrate the love of Jesus in tangible, practical ways to others who need to feel it. As I try to figure out just what that looks like in my life (Teaching Sunday School? Being a part of Women's Ministry? Feeding the hungry? Camp counselor? Volunteering to help rebuild the children's camp at Hume Lake?) I pray that God will keep those embers lit until I discover the place He wants to use me. At least now I know there is a spot for me, an area of ministry that I can use the talents and wisdom and experience that God has given me...I just have to figure out the exact location of said spot. I am confidant He will point me in the right direction.

As for Brayden, he is busy walking all over our house, the yard, the park, the beach...anywhere we will let him, actually! He loves to discover new places and gets very frustrated when we try to stifle him. Seriously, when Nathan or I have the audacity to contain him in the front yard or the house or his baby yard, that child lets you know he is not happy! His true joy and happiness becomes apparent when he is outside, free and unencumbered. I love watching his face light up the moment he realizes he is allowed to "escape." That boy never moves as fast as he does when he spots an open door or gate.

Needless to say, our time together as a family has been limited with our busy schedules. That's why we grabbed up the opportunity this last weekend to escape to the redwoods of Santa Cruz for four days of relaxation and fun. We did a little hiking, a little biking, and just good ol' sitting around the campfire, mixed in with some Easter activities as well. It was a good respite for the four of us, wetting our appetite for even more togetherness. We already have more camping trips planned for May and June, followed by some more in October and November.

Here are just a few pictures I snapped over the last few weeks.














The first thing he did when we put him in his play yard at the campsite was throw every toy out as a sign of protest.

Getting ready to go hiking.

The boy loves trains.

We found a great swimming hole.



This was Brayden's favorite activity of the trip: walking around the campsite, dragging his bucket. :)

The boys woke up Sunday morning to find that the Easter bunny had been by our camper.

Benjamin's first find!

Even Brayden got in on the Easter Egg Hunt action.


He just loves that bucket.


Going through his bounty. :)

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