Where, oh where have we been?

Family vacation: Jon and I always joke that we could spend a week at a local hotel,and the kids would be happy as clams and content to swim in the pool and ride the elevator to the ice machine. One day, we are going to try it, but this year we drove south along the coastline just a few miles to get away. Its tempting when you take a break from the demands of life to pretend all those expectations and responsibilities won't be waiting to devour you upon your return. This same time last summer I spent at least part of our vacation feeling like someone was missing and mourning his absence. Don't think it didn't cross my mind several times again as we were all finally together on this year's family journey. I caught myself smiling over and over as I reflected on the faithfulness of our God. (Count it all joy, right?)

Taking a break. Landon,Wilson, Austyn and Stephen had a blast walking on the boardwalk, going to Ripley's Believe or Not (Wilson's taste in fun) and visiting a sandwich shop that Jon and I used to visit as children.

Check out those socks! I love my girl and her lack of concern for what others thought as she was sportin' tie-dye red socks with leather flip-flops. Now, I also know that you are jealous that you were not able to attend the annual Snead's Ferry Shrimp Festival that she was wearing these great socks to... Well, we were fortunate and managed to attend. Next year, you should join us. Who knew shrimp could be cooked so many ways?

One of the hazards of having friends with a large family: taking up the entire space you are visiting. Here, the Lucas kids and the Murray children are all enjoying a day at the beach on Camp Lejeune. This particular area of the beach is reserved for officers only. My friend Julia (also known as Mrs. Lt.Colonel Murray) was gracious enough to allow us to accompany her family. We were honored and felt like celebrity :-) Gracias, mi amigo!



Nothing special here. I just love this shot of Wilson sailing through the air. I remember when I used to be able to send him flying, too. Hmmmm..what happened? Don't answer that.

Anyhow, we have certainly been busy and when we have a spare moment we will try to catch you up on all of the many happenings with the "never a dull moment" family.

We have missed you. Where have you been?

Chin-ku(s) forever

Stephen Isaiah JaeHo and his dear chinku (friend) Micah JungWoo

Ever since Stephen found out his best friend from Korea had joined his new family in Iowa he has been asking about him and missing him terribly. Each time the phone would ring or we would get in the car to travel he would get "the look" and ask "Mommy..Un Woo?". Micah Jung Woo (UnWoo)'s family recently moved to the South and a wee bit closer to our family. His mother and I spoke several times and I found out that during the packing/moving process that Stephen's best buddy had seen lots of photos of the two of them together. He also began to ask over and over about Jae Ho (Stephen). At one point, Micah stood at the front door of their former home and shouted his friend's name over and over until both of his parents were in tears. These are the moments that rip your heart right out. Us moms decided to make a plan.

Earlier this week, our family piled in the car and headed for Tennessee to meet little "Un Woo" and his precious family. So many people have innocently remarked that they didn't think the two boys would remember each other after such a long time. It has been 8 months since the last time they giggled together, played cars together and attended preschool together.

Tell me, what do you think?

You know I love them if I let them wear UT hats...well, we were in Tennessee afterall.

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Sharing a cheeseburger late night at the Steak n Shake.

Pete and RePete

Micah did not want to eat his breakfast unless he was with "Jae Ho". Here he is after he carried it into our room..pjs and all. Too sweet.


Part of the gang. Between the two families there were ten children, but only eight present. It was amazing how well each family blended and really enjoyed each other. We consider it an honor to have met such a warm family and know that Micah will grow into a fine young man in their home.

Taking a time out for a photo outside the Chattanooga aquarium: Stephen, Rachel, Austyn, Esther and Landon.

A friend loves at all times and a brother is born for adversity.
Proverbs 17:17