Michael's birthday

Michael's work had a great birthday surprise cake for him the day before his birthday (one of his co-workers was going to be gone on the actual day--at a parent's day event for USMA prep school for his son). The kids had a blast and Hannah was thrilled at being able to eat this soft food. She couldn't get enough! On his actual birthday, we had co-op and soccer practice, so we had a quick supper out and cake at home. The next day, Friday, was a day off, so we headed to the art museum for a modern art exhibit and the capital building--we've been studying American history and lately been going over the writing of the Constitution and how the founding fathers organized our government. We thought it would be interesting for them to see, on a state level, how things are organized at the actual capital building. Michael got to choose where we went for lunch, so we went to eat Ethiopian food (with our hands, which is always quite popular with the boys).

Hannah's been saying "Ma ma" over and over again now!!! We're so excited! We're encouraging other syllables vigorously now.

Faith was showing off some of her tricks learned in gymnastics at our homeschool co-op the other day. We all had a laugh when Michael tried the same thing--almost makes my back hurt to see her bend it so far.

We've been having a great holiday weekend with Michael home. Quite a few unfortunate circumstances have called him back to work in the evenings and during the night, but we're loving him being here! Michael adds that it was ALL THROUGHOUT THE NIGHT!

I have to share a verse I was reading the other day. It just hit me so hard, then our pastor preached on it this morning.

James 1: 19-22 "Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, for man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires. Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you. Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says."