Birthday Boy

"Mom, is the birthday boy at home?" Breanne asked as I picked her up from preschool today. Unfortunately, the birthday boy had to go to work today, but we're planning a party tonight. Here's what other nonsense is coming out of the mouth of our five-year old. "Daddy, mommy is WAAAAY older than you!" Of course, Derrick just eats that up....

Last weekend was fall break from school and we had Minnesota cousins come visit us! It was really a fun time. On Friday, we went to the REEF (indoor water park) and the kids had a blast. They also had a blast playing the Wii. Although, I'm not really sure who had more fun-the kids or Kelly? We made popcorn, played games, watched movies, made homeade icecream and also went to the Corn Maize that was full of fun adventures. We took in the pig races, the hay slides, Lucas and Carter liked the pedal karts, lots of fun mind games, duck racing and the corn pile. Madison was the biggest trooper during the maze itself. She never complained and was determined to finish. We've also started a new family tradition. After the corn maize, we head to the Funky Monkey for smoothies. We roped the Krachts into this tradition with us. Aliya was especially fond of those smoothies. I've never seen a baby suck through a straw so fast in my life. She polished off mine and anything the big girls didn't want to finish.

Aliya was also become a little traveler. She's now taking first steps. My, what a big girl she is. We're so proud of her.

Derrick is getting prepared for his trip to Africa. Please be in prayer for him (October 30-November 7). Pray specifically for:

1. That he wouldn't get sick (flu/cold) before leaving

2. That he'd be able to meet our sponsored Compassion International Child, Andinet, while he is there

3. For effective mission work

4. The girls and I as we stay home