LONG three days.

Oh what a long three days. The girls have had the stomach flu. It's so disgusting. They are very appreciative of any help and love I can give them, which really hampers down the disgusting part. Adam and I are praying the bug skips us. So far so good.

Fourth of July weekend.

Generally around the Fourth of July we celebrate at Seth's home. His birthday is the 3rd and they open their home to all who want to come for a HUGE fireworks display and festivity. The Fourth is Adam's favorite holiday, but this year we all decided it just wouldn't be the same with out Tom, so other plans were made.

In lou of the above, it was a festive Fourth of July weekend. We went to Tioga to spend time with my mom's family. There is always much drama and fun at the Johnson residence. I enjoy seeing my grandparents, cousins, aunts and uncles. What a gift to have them.

We also stopped into my 10 year class reunion. It was a bit awkward for me since I rarely speak to any of my high school mates, but I enjoyed myself. It was truly nice to get to see Gracia. I haven't seen much of her since high school, but we had a few good laughs and it was great to hear her laught...it hasn't changed! Also it was so nice to see Kya. I know we both live in ND, but it is to far and in between that we actually get to see each other. Adam is convinced that both Gracia's husband, Aaron and Kya's husband Craig would enjoy a sports outing with him. Oh Adam, you just may think too highly of yourself! Any excuse for you to go to a sporting event!

We spent the 4th at the farm and at the lake. I love being at the farm with my Dad, Mom, sisters and their families. We have so much fun together. Truly they are all my best friends! From the youngest, Tucker to the oldest, Dad we just enjoy each others presence immensely. The boys shot guns, the girls chatted, and the kids went wild outside! Lord, thank you for my childhood home where my kids can go and have freedom to truly enjoy themselves.

The Brevik's lake house was amazingly beautiful with such a marvelous view. Dave shout out to you!! You built an awesome house for you and your family to enjoy for years to come. Thanks for the invite and the amazing food!! The girls enjoyed the jumping castle and hot tub. I thoroughly enjoyed the beautiful grand piano and Adam the boat!

We got home and shot off a hokey display of fireworks for the girls and they loved it! They thanked Daddy over and over for the lights show. What joy it gave Adam and I to see the sparkle and excitement in Elliott and Carson's eyes.

Father God, you are to good to Adam and I. We do not deserve Elliott and Carson. I am overwhelmed by you. Oh how you have blessed us with precious friends and wonderful families. I praise your name for your goodness. I praise your name for your grace and your mercy. Your loving kindness toward my family is undeserved in light of who you are. How can I ever speak enough praises? How can I ever give you enough glory for the wonderful gift of your Son, Jesus Christ, my Lord and Saviour?

Lord I thank you for the freedom we still have in America to worship you openly, as others do not have that same freedom. Thank you for the independence you have given your children from the great deceiver and enemy. Thank you for the cross. Thank you for your death, Jesus Christ, and your resurrection.

To your name, Jesus, be all honor and glory forever and ever.

june-campmeeting

Oh month of June, where have you gone!?

The second week of June Elliott, Carson, and I went to DAA for campmeeting. The children's cradle roll and kindergarden department was fantastic. The girls adored going to "school" all week. They made some pretty amazing crafts. I was proud of them. Most importantly they spent the week talking about God and the gift of Jesus. It warms my heart that they already love Jesus.

I had a wonderful time in the Word at campmeeting. My favorite session for the adults each day was by Dr. Jon Dybdahl. The topic which he discussed was "Spiritual Renewal". I was so captivated by his scriptural references on the spiritual life that I bought his book, "Hunger" from the ABC. It has been a really good in helping me seek out God.

There was so much to feed on at campmeeting that I cannot even write about it. It was a steller, two thumbs-up experience with the girls and our friend Shelly. We were so gladd Daddy got to come Friday and Sabbath! Very excited for next year!

Great Afternoon.

What an outstanding afternoon! The weather was absolutely gorgeous. The girls and I loaded up the van with Auntie Shelly and headed out to Fairview for a delightful meal at the Powder Keg. Then we meandered over to the the intriguing Cartwright Bridge. We had the fun of getting to cross the bridge and walk to the Cartwright Tunnel. The girls and I were a bit unsteady crossing the bridge by foot. I have always had a slight fear of bridges, so my blood pressure definately went up a bit as we made our way to the other side. The scenery of the Yellow Stone River was stunning and the sunshine soothing for the soul.

We also stopped and visited the Confluence Interpretive Center. It was neat to see. The girls enjoyed the museum aspect also.

Track Meet

Elliott and Carson participated in a Williston Track meet yesterday for kids between the ages of 2 to 12. There were many friends and family members who brought their children. It was fabulous to see all the kiddos running their guts out. Many toddlers, which included Carson, had no clue why they were even running! Elliott had been ampted for a few weeks knowing the track meet was coming. She definitely mentally trained because I had never seen her "fly" so fast! She was very concerned beforehand that she did not have "name brand" shoes (it makes me so sad that she has caught on to the whole name brand thing). She had some good ole' Walmart sneakers and I had to explain to her that it wasn't her shoes that made her fast, but her legs. Elliott was thrilled with a first place ribbon that she tied for. Carson was so cute and did happen to come in second in the 100 meter dash. Out of all the children I knew there, Aubers, my niece, was the most fascinatig to watch. She was SO FAST! She is such a ballerinia princess, who would have known!? We thank God for memory making opportunities that we get to make as a family. The memories will bring many smiles to our family for future days.

"Pillars of Our Faith"

Wow! What a great last three plus days! On top of it being our six year anniversary on the 28th, we have been participating via satellite in the "Pillars of Our Faith" campmeeting in Thompsonville, Illinois at 3 Angels Broadcasting Network.
There has been a plethora of food to feed upon to revitalize our weary souls and to cause us to be awed by our gracious God! Thank you Lord for giving us 3ABN!
You can watch 3ABN online at:
http://www.3abn.org/

Tom's B'day

Today is Tom's birthday. Needless to say this is a hard day for Adam, his mom and Seth. Adam is having a difficult time with his dad's death. Any good son would have a hard time. The gift of time is easing my pain. He wasn't my dad. Time hasn't yet eased Adam's. I know it is a struggle for Adam because he misses his dad so much.

My prayer is that God will lead him through this dark valley. Adam says that he knows this can only make him a better person. I believe he is right. God's grace does that. It takes the yuck of this world and makes it beautiful. Only Creator God can do that.

Thank you Lord for your grace. Thank you Jesus that you love us and not only that, but you like us and we are your friends.