Living History : A visit to the Capitol

As we headed out to DC this past Monday we were able to take Amber Sutter (a friend from Fl) with us. We had a brief and amazing trip to the Engraving museum because Matt wisely discerned we should try to be on time to the Capitol Tour. A young man from the Maryland State Representative's office took us underground from the offices into the Capitol and right to the Senate floor. It was remarkable being in the building and realizing who else had walked in those halls. We could not take pictures of the Senate Chambers but here is a picture of where the original Supreme Court met until the 1950's. I was very grateful for being an American and saw God's grace reflected in much wise leadership over the years.

An Evening in Baltimore

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This past Friday night we went to the Baltimore Aquarium. Matt ran out of class later than usual and we jumped on the highway and joined in the evening rush hour and spent an hour and a half in traffic making our way to Baltimore. I started to wonder if this was such a wise plan on my part to head out on a busy rainy Friday night. We were greeted by a dreamy foggy harbor and an amazing aquarium. It was so worth the trip in retrospect. We strolled around looking at rays, sharks, aneonmes and fish. We were amazed as we went from exhibit to exhibit. The Australia and Rain Forest exhibits were like walking into the actual terrain. If you are in the area this is a must do (Friday nights the ticket is $8 instead of $22 for an adult). I have included two short videos, one of the cityscape and another or Matt and his new friend.

Great Falls lives up to its name

This past week we had the opportunity to go to a park called Great Falls. We stood by the water and were mesmerized by the many simultaneous falls and rapids. In those moments we ponder God's greatness as we stand before a small example of His amazing creation. We walked and laughed. Christian even found himself a crutch for when he grows up. These continue to be some of our sweetest times when we take time away from our full schedule and spend time as a family.

A Historical Day

Today we vote for our president. I find that participating in politics is such a privilege and responsibility especially as I see how much our freedom has cost others as we study our nation's history. I am encouraged that no matter the outcome my hope rests on the Lord. I am making a commitment regardless of who is voted in to respect and honor the office. The psalmist reminds me "Put not your trust in princes, in a son of man, in whom there is no salvation. When his breath departs, he returns to the earth: on that very day his plans perish. Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob whose hope is in the Lord his God, who made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them, who keeps faith forever: who executes justice for the oppressed.. (146:3-7)" Rest in him and I hope you join me in the privileged of voting.

Harvest Party Time!!

I so enjoyed getting the kids dressed up for the church's Harvest party. When they were little it was normal for them not to put on regular clothes to start the day. I would have breakfast with Batman, a princess, Robin and a fairy with wings. This is now a sweet memory so when the kids said they would like to get dressed up I jumped at the opportunity and hit a local thrift store. It was a fun night. Jordan dressed up as one of my favorite people, himself and gave a hand with the games. Sherry, Trinity and Jeannine could have won a contest as Pooh,Tigger and Eeyore.

Fun, Friends and Food

One thing that has made our stay in Gaithersburg so sweet has been the friends that God has
brought into out lives. This past week the Harveys who serve heroically on the Pastors College Administration Team (they plan many special events for the class each year) had us and the Schiels (another PC family ) over for a VERY nice dinner. It was a fun and filling evening and a great opportunity for my sweetie to take a break from a busy school week. It was so meaningful because they have already done so much for us. Thank you Craig for your example of servanthood and Jeannie for wrapping everything you do in love.