It's been a VERY busy week. We started it off by going to our niece Shea's preschool graduation at Jack and Jill. All the kids were so cute all dressed in their caps and gowns.
Shea had a little breakdown a few days before graduation because she didn't want to graduate and have to "move away from mommy and daddy and go to high school". Don't ask me where she came up with that! She eventually understood and was okay with going to graduation. At Jack and Jill, all the graduates let go of a balloon and make a wish for the world. Shea's wish was that everyone in the world would be able to have a pony.
On Sunday the 3rd, our church had a church wide BBQ in celebration of the ending of our home groups study. Rich and I were baptized together at the celebration. What was exceptionally special was that our friend Joe Proudfoot (and pastor of the Gridley Nazarene Church) jumped in the pool and baptized us. Joe and his wife Sarah have been good friends to us throughout our struggles with infertility. Please pray for them that some day soon their prayers for a child will be granted as well. We love you guys!!!
On Friday, we had a slumber party with 5 of the nieces and nephews. Kaitlyn (9), AJ (8), Kyrie (8), Shea (5), and Alex (2 1/2). We had so much fun, but as you can see, we sure did get messy!
This is what being a kid is all about, right? Having fun and gettin' dirty!This was the aftermath of our shaving cream fight. Thank God for the invention of the hose. Oh, I got covered in shaving cream too, but someone had to take the pictures!
Alex and Shea intently watching Garfield II.
FINALLY!!! Around midnight, they all fell asleep. They were up early the next morning and ready to play again though. They are all such good kids (even better when they are sleeping).
On Sunday I went to the Gridley Nazarene Church to see the dedication of Braiden Anders. Josh and Valerie, the new mom and dad, recently adopted Braiden from Russia. They both have been so supportive of Rich and me throughout this entire process. They too have traveled a long journey to parenthood and we are so filled with joy to know that they have finally been able to bring a child into their home.
We would also like you to pray for our friends Glenn and Sarah Houston as they are waiting for their referral to adopt their daughter from China. Her name will be Naomi. The Houstons have been a huge support to Rich and me and we love them like family. Adoption is often a long, arduous process and most people usually don't see the struggle it takes to reach the end point. I pray that all of our friends are granted the gifts of patience and strength...we know it's not easy to wait, but we are here for you while you do.
Jess is finally all moved in and she plans to stay with us until Zack is here. She had a long 7 hour drive on Friday and she got a pretty sunburnt arm on the way, but Bailey was ready to give her lots of welcoming kisses when she got here. It's funny because, so far, Bailey hasn't taken to anyone besides Rich and me (and my mom because my mom has Maggie - Bailey's best playmate). But, she loves Jess. She follows her around the house and seems to be totally comfortable with having her around. She is the spazziest dog I've ever met!
Jess and I watching a movie at the house. 
