"Reverend" Smith

I couldn't be more proud of my husband--he was ordained in the PCA tonight! The PCA requires several things of its pastors before ordination, including passing 5 written and oral exams (i.e. Church History, Bible, Theology, Book of Church Order, and Sacraments). He has worked extremely hard this year as he's studied for each of these exams while planting a new church and shepherding people. He's an amazing pastor! Love you, babe, and CONGRATULATIONS! (Side note: It was so sweet to see him raise his hands tonight to give the benediction!)

chopsticks

I think this is hilarious: So, he asked me tonight if he could eat with chopsticks. Why not, right? We like to be cultured. :) And yes, that is a hamburger. I'm actually very impressed with his skill! I think he did a better job than I did, and I lived in China for a year! Ha!

the three amigos

(Luke: 7 months)

I love these three boys--they are so fun! Ty and Drew are at a point now that they will make silly noises and faces at Luke to make him laugh, and Luke thinks they are hilarious! He just giggles away at them! The other day, Corey chased the boys around our "circle" (kitchen, dining room, living room), and they were laughing and screaming while Luke sat smiling and watching from the exersaucer. There is never a dull moment!

6 months things

I found my feet

I like to sit up (but not quite on my own yet)

I started solids (and I'm messy--those are peas all over me)

bringing up boys

I love these pictures because they are such a great glimpse of what it's like bringing up boys. Boys like to see how fast they can run, who can change into their pajamas the fastest, who won, and if vegetables really do make their muscles bigger. They also like to jump off of things--steps, landings, stacked chairs at the church-wide dinner, brick walls...you name it--the higher, the better. The thought of not landing on their feet (or how a concrete sidewalk might hurt them) never crosses their minds. They are goofballs and love being silly. They like to make "mean faces," absolutely love to wrestle and be tickled, and are tender-hearted. They love their daddy and mommy, and they sure do love each other.

friends

We enjoyed friends and warm weather last week when it was in the 70's! Feels like a dream since we're back to 30-40 degree weather again. :( Hopefully, this winter relapse will be short-lived!

reinforcements

Corey traveled to Johannesburg, South Africa last week, and since he was going to be gone for 10 days, I called in the reinforcements. Nonna came right away! :) I love grandparents--They would drop everything in an instant to be with their grandkids, and they often do. Thank you, Nonna, for your company and help last week! We love you!

I love those dimples!