Sisters

I have a great sister....but I am sure that a lot of people can say that. Mine is far away from where I am, and I miss her greatly. She calls me once in awhile, and I set aside whatever I am doing, for nothing (most things) are not as important as talking with her on the phone. She is slowly joining the 1990's now, which I am thankful. She will most likely catch up the the 2000's sometime in 2010. But then, that is what I love about her, she is not in a hurry to do the latest and have the greatest. She teaches me to be content with what I have, and to be THANKFUL for her especially. I miss you Paula, I hope that you have a blessed Thanksgiving and you enjoy your family around you this weekend. Love, Valerie.

OH DEER!

Well, after not hunting for several years, Jason (Brenda's DH) broke down and bought a license. Its a good thing too! Here is a wonderful 14 point buck that he took down today. The big guy actually had 15, but it was less than the required one inch long to be counted. Good job Jason!

College

Briana, JJ, Kerry (JJ's mom) and I spent Thursday and Friday at a sneak preview of Trinity college. It was so nice. Such nice people (like they were Christian or something!) The lunch was with some of the professors, we sat with the Biology Proff, and he homeschools his children. It was so nice to be in such company. Briana and JJ loved the campus, and are excited about the prospect of attending there. Prayerfully, they will be able to get in, if not, they will attend some local classes and try again next year. Well worth the wait..

Poor Briana had the stomach flu all night though, and was a trooper the whole next day and was able to attend to all of the things planned. Busy couple of days, but well worth it.

In the toy box

Craig has built a window seat on each side of the fireplace, one side we store stuff, the other the kids store stuff, and sometimes themselves. This is the four grandchildern - Trevor, Jacob, Ariana and Amelia.

The newest member

Jessica Lynn the newest member as of the first of August. This makes our fifth grandchild, which does not take away from the excitement. It just strengthens the realization of the amazing gift of life that God gives us, and the beauty of a newborn child. Jessica came into the world in the way that newborns do, full of miracle and full of blessings. Brenda had some scares, but with prayer all was well. Jessica continues to grow and give us new joys daily, recognizing her nanna and papa, hearing her little voice for the first time. I can't wait for her personality that God has given her to be unwrapped in the years to come.

Latest Family Picture

Here is the latest one, July of 2007. Jessica will be featured next as she had not made her entrance yet. This was taken in Jason and Brenda's livingroom.

This is the most current Smith group...

This photo was from Christmas 2006, most of us are here, however Jessica was just a twinkle in Jason's eye at this point.

I thought it was good to have a current place where we could post our happenings and those who want to catch up periodically can do so.

I will post the most current picture later - taken this summer at Jason and Brenda's home prior to the entrance of Jessica Lynn.