Dads & Dinosaurs (not related)

Brian's stressful week at work coincided w/ our last unscheduled week of the summer, and when we put that with it being his Dad's birthday last Sunday, we decided pretty last minute to go up to Idaho and surprise him.  Kathy was so gracious to have us, after her busy week hosting a lot of other family, all while Brian's dad was gone to Woodbadge.  He wasn't getting home until Saturday night himself, so we left Saturday morning, stopping at the Dinosaur Park (which was having a free day)

and then to G&G Mildenhall's to say hi

We had a nice, relaxing weekend with them--playing cards Saturday night, going to church w/ them Sunday (where we enjoyed him teaching the Gospel Essentials class), and then having a great birthday feast over at Eric and Analisa's home (Brian's stepsister), where we were also able to meet our newest nephew (and 3rd this summer!!)--Landon, only 6 days old. Maddie got so excited about holding him, I nearly didn't recognize her (if you know how hard it is to excite Maddie about anything!).  Eric & Analisa have recently bought their home, and worked tirelessly the last year or so renovating it--they really bought the house for the yard, then adjusted the house to be what they'd like.  After a lovely Sunday afternoon there, we ALL wanted to move into their yard!  With a full basketball court, a hammock, a garden, and a firepit, we're pretty sure we could manage. The children played a little "h-o-r-s-e" and then baseball, which seemed quite authentic w/ Bren'ts attempt to preserve his Sunday pants:

Anne and her 3 yr old cousin Aiden had fun getting re-acquainted, and we all had fun watching 3-yr old socialities.  They were pretty hilarious in their seriousnesses.  For instance, Anne always says, "Last Week" to refer to ANY time in the past... Aiden has the same code word, but his is "Last Saturday."  They were very good to demonstrate good manners for each other, like sharing bikes or reminding the other that it is very nice to share.  Aiden was shocked when Anne told him she was three, "I free too!!! I just had a birthday at Blast Off!!! " (it was in November--we were even there, though he doesn't remember that too well anymore!).

It was a good weekend, and perfect timing for a break.  Stress at work too (big clients not paying their bills), has brought good things as we've restructured our personal finances again, and as Brian has arranged with the other partner to set some more reserve up to better be prepared for these ups and downs.  It was very encouraging, after his praying and fasting, to find this other partner having just the same feelings and directions so that they were able to work so well together.  Such a blessing to have good coworkers! Also, business has turned out to be sufficient this month, even WITH those bad dealings, so we are relieved, and so grateful for the prayers and support of family.  We are REALLY blessed.  Even as we've gone over our budget in more detail lately, trying not to be discouraged in our obedience to save for the future and be wise, that we find we have a surplus here that we didn't know about, or a forgotten credit there to be redeemed--things really do work out with the Lord involved--I just wish my patience would allow me to remember that more in times of stress!