Pumpkin Parable

Each year, our family carves a pumpkin and we walk through the Pumpkin Parable with our kids. This year, Ashley and Bradley had the chance to hear it for the first time and it was such a blessing to be able to share Christ's love with them since they hadn't heard it before coming to live with us. If you haven't ever heard of the Pumpkin Parable, I encourage you to do this with your kids next year. It is a great way to have fun while learning about Jesus being the Light of the world.

The Pumpkin Parable:
As we cut the pumpkin open and pull the "yucky" pulp out, we tell how this is a picture of how God takes us and cleanses us from all our sin - casting them as far as the east is from the west.












The carving of the eyes, nose, and SMILING face, represents how God makes us a new creation.









Then as you put the light into the pumpkin, remind them that Christ comes into our lives as a light and can shine through us into a dark world.


It is always so much fun and we read scripture together and learn more about how much Jesus loves us. Happy Halloween and God bless you!

Happy 4th Birthday, Ashley!

Ashley actually turned 4 on September 23, but two weeks after she came to live with us, we found out she had not celebrated her birthday. The event-planner in me couldn't allow that to happen- no way, Jose! So, I arranged a Birthday party, mermaid-themed per Ashley's request, and we had so much fun! I made her cake, Nana, Aunts Amy and Stephanie came, Grandma and Grandpa (Bret's parents) came to town and we had a blast watching her open her gifts. Seeing all the excitement on her face was priceless. Bret and I said from the beginning, that no matter how long they may be here with us, we are going to bless them beyond measure. We are striving each day to be a blessing by showing them the love of Jesus and letting them know how special they are. Ashley- we love you! You are God's princess, created by Him for a purpose and we are honored to have the chance to experience your life with you at this time. Happy 4th Birtday, Precious.

Fall Family Festival

Each year, Lake Pointe Church puts on the most magnificent and overwhelming (in a good way) Fall Festival. This year, we ALL had a chance to go, Nana and Aunt Amy included. Madeline was of course, too old and cool, to wear a costume (apparently that stops in 3rd grade?!) so she was the only kid not taking part in the dressing up part of the evening. I didn't fight it, although it made me a bit sad. She is growing up so fast and even faster in her own world. :)

All the kids had fun, although I think Ashley and Bradley were just a tad-bit overwhelmed by all the activity and people. I am not quite sure they had ever experienced such activity before. But, the all the candy and prizes proved it a success and they talked about it for days after.

Riding the train with Landon, Bradley and Ashley
Landon and Ashley on the car ride. I love their excited faces!
Madeline and Landon on the airplane ride with Aunt Amy.





The 2 most adorable Texas Tech future cheerleaders, Ashley and Caroline






Landon (Batman), Madeline (Miss Cool) and Ashley (TTU cheerleader)

Halloween Sneak Peek

Landon: Batman, Ashley: Texas Tech Cheerleader, Bradley: Superman