Land of the Free!

Happy 4th of July! I am so thankful that I live in such a wonderful country that, despite it's problems, is a land that promotes freedom and opportunities galore for its citizens. I love the United States of America and feel so blessed to enjoy all the rights and privileges it affords. I am also especially grateful for a husband who served in the Army to help defend those freedoms I enjoy. His loyalty and patriotism continues every day as he keeps our country's borders safe. He is an amazing man and a wonderful example to us all, especially to our children, of his love for this land and for the Lord who set it aside as a Promised Land. May we live up to that title and always fight for the right.

Happy Birthday Amelie!

So I am a little behind--I'll make up for it as much as I can as quickly as I can.
On June 28, Amelie turned 5. It is hard to believe that this little girl who loves to write her letters, wrestle with her siblings (especially Billy), make play-doh ice cream sundaes for us all and plan and host more parties than I could ever handle is now five. She is so excited! We had her party the day after her birthday. She is still very much a Princess, so we went with that theme again--and since the weather was perfect, we ended the party playing on the slip n' slide and in the kiddy pool in our backyard. It was a wonderful celebration and she is a tremendous little girl. She thrives on being a good helper and is always trying to help Tanner walk, climb, eat, . . . She loves to play with both her little brothers and her big brother and sisters. She was thrilled to be Tiffany's flower girl and to help her at her bridal shower. Amelie is a sweet, sweet girl and I am so very thankful that she is a part of our family!