Happy Birthday America!

This July 4th was extra special.  One reason is because our family has grown by two children that have now been American citizens for 8 weeks.  My appreciation for being an American has really grown in the last five years, so I was extra thankful to know that Lena and Will now have this privilege.  While I know our country has some serious issues, I have also had the experience of being in countries like Haiti and Moldova and have become more aware of the plight of other countries.  I am thankful that our three youngest children now live in a country where they have access to good health care, education, and Biblical teaching and living!  As I have learned to think more "globally" I have learned to be more thankful for my blessings.

My thanks goes out to so many who suffered and died for our country in years past and for those still serving.  Also, thanks to the families who have sacrificed and continue to do so.

While Will certainly doesn't understand all it means about being an American, he certainly enjoyed saying "Happy Birthday America"  about a thousand times.  He and Lena certainly know what the American Flag looks like now and they let everyone else know too!  They loved celebrating the 4th at the lake.  Will even loved the fireworks but Lena wanted no part in them!  We all missed our Beth though!  She is in Haiti for six weeks.  Two down and four to go.

Thanks for everyone who continues to pray for us.  It is really a miracle at how well they are adjusting and while the days are hard, we could be dealing with many more serious issues.  They are bonding, attaching, eating well, and sleeping well.

Lena and Will on their first kayak ride

Lena and Hope putting sunscreen on Caroline Colee and of course Will is telling them the right way to do it!

Hope learning to ski

Will learning to ski

Daddy with his little girls.

Lena

Will enjoying time with Pearson Colee

Will, Lena, and Hope wearing Mickey and Minnie (Will loves Mickey)

Will with big brother

Chris and Caroline Colee

Lena was just up for grass skiing

Hope made a new friend!