Friends through all weather

As Dan and I are on our journey of adopting I have really seen this verse in action.

Friends love through all kinds of weather. 

Proverbs 17:17

I am so thankful for our good friends who have come along side us and encouraged us through this time. We have been so lucky to have them walking with us and reminding us of God's love and perfect plan. 

My prayer tonight is that you all have friends who love in all types of weather. The sunny beautiful days where the sun kisses your skin and all is well to the rainy, stormy days where you struggle to find hope. These are people to cherish and love. 

Today I received a sweet email from a friend just encouraging me and offering hope and I was reminded of this verse that is taped on my computer.

But as for me, I will always have hope. I will praise you more and more. 

Psalm 71:14

How lucky am I that God has placed people in my life to encourage me and lift me up in prayer. 

He is so good and so loving, even when life is hard.  

Family Wedding

Dan has a very special bond with two of his cousins. It is so sweet as his wife to watch them together. When Dan and I started to date, he wanted me to meet his cousins right away. I soon learned why and have the same appreciation for them and their parents.

 

Dan's cousin Billy married the love of his life this July!! 

I must admit that the minute I met her, I LOVED her!! Kara is such a sweet person and I have enjoyed getting to know her!  I look forward to hanging out with them as a married couple and getting to know Kara even more!

Just married!!

Meet Lydia!! 

Jennie, Lydia and Dan

Ella, Jennie, Lydia (who does not look amused) and Dan

I love this picture! 

Great Grandma Mach and Lydia
Grandma Mach is one special lady! 

We couldn't be happier for Billy. Congrats you guys! 

Dan's Sister Comes to MN

We were so excited that Dan's sister and our nieces were able to come to MN for a few days this summer. We had a good time getting to know our newest niece Lydia and getting know Ella a little better.  

I really enjoyed my time with Jennie. I have not had the chance to really visit with her and get to know her. Ever since Dan and I started dating we have always lived in different states and even different countries, making it hard to really get to know each other. 

I can't wait to be able to spend more time with her this winter!! 

We spent the first day at the zoo. However, if you asked Ella what the zoo was like, she will probably only tell you about rides. We only saw a handful of animals because uncle Dan bought her an unlimited wrist band to ride rides. She took full advantage of it!!! 

Watching animals at Como Zoo

Magic carpet ride

Having fun yet? 

I think she road this ride over 20 times!!

The next day we got a pool for her to keep cool in! It was a hit!! Since then our neighbor kids have enjoyed staying cool in this hot weather with it! 

Future model

After church we had a bonfire and ROASTED marshmallows. Uncle Dan was trying to teach Ella the art of marshmallow roasting... well, Ella had other ideas... 

Before

After

 After our visit they went to South Dakota to see Dan's parents. 

More pictures to come....