the last week or so

Together with Ellen, another woman on our staff team, we hosted a baby shower for Jen, who is also on our staff team. She is expecting her first child in mid-January. The big girls wanted to participate and the guests were super sweet at including them. Here, the girls are working together to diaper a baby, each using only one of their hands. They did a great job, and it was so fun to see them working together!
The weekend before Thanksgiving, we always head to one of our favorite places: Camp of the Woods. Every year, the northeast region of Campus Crusade for Christ hosts their staff for a four-day conference. It is always a highlight of the year in large part because of the facility. We can give our young children some freedom that they can not experience elsewhere. And we are encouraged by friends, colleagues and the Lord. This year, however, was a little different because after the conference David headed to the woods with two great friends, J.W. and Adam. The three of them set out for four days of camping and hunting. The weather was great for this time of year. However, they did not see anything. So, really it was more of a camping trip. J.W.'s family - wife Steph, sister Rachel, three boys and daughter - came to our house for those same days. We had a great time living under one roof! Likewise, the weather was great for us, and with seven children under six it is really a blessing to get out! One day we went to the New York State Museum.

Here's Lucy on the subway car. That's the back of Titus' head next to her; he turned away just as I was taking their picture.
There they are from the back! So cute!

Josiah on the subway car at the museum.

Jack hanging on the subway car.

Of course, we had to ride the carousel! One of our favorite places to share with people who visit! Can you imagine the sight of us? Seven children under six and pregnant me, Steph, and Steph's sister-in-law Rachel (what a god send!) . . .

The tiger Heather recently sent to Samantha was a big hit! Here, Anna Kate and Titus are hanging out together in the morning.