Come what may and love it

We learned recently that the baby girl we hoped and planned to adopt in November will not be coming to our home. It has not been an easy road. Like many difficult trials, what may seem simple and straightforward turned into a long road full of highs and lows.

Joseph B. Wirthlin said:

"Learning to endure times of disappointment, suffering, and sorrow is part of our on-the-job training. These experiences, while often difficult to bear at the time, are precisely the kinds of experiences that stretch our understanding, build our character, and increase our compassion for others.

Because Jesus Christ suffered greatly, He understands our suffering. He understands our grief. We experience hard things so that we too may have increased compassion and understanding for others."

He then gave the advice that his mother gave him after a difficult experience: "Come what may and love it."

To so many family and friends that have offered countless prayers, kind words and have told others we are hoping to adopt, thank you! 

We are starting our search again. If you know anyone who may know someone considering adoption, please pass along our adoption blog and profile.

Love,

Ty, Rebecca and Jack

Jack Turns 5!

Jack's birthday morning started off early with getting to open one present of his choice. By shaking them all a few days before, he had already guessed that one of the presents was cereal and he was right. He chose that one so he could eat it for his birthday breakfast.

After school and when Dad got home from work, we watched him open his present. He got tons of great things!

For his birthday dinner, Jack chose In-N-Out (with a little nudging from Ty). I think we end up going here every year on his birthday...but I'm not complaining. And (hallelujah!) the weather was cool enough to eat outside.

About Jack on 9/11/12

Favorite song: "Praise to the Man"

Favorite food: pepperoni pizza

Favorite dessert: chocolate cake

Favorite snack: crackers with melted cheese

Favorite school subject: music

Favorite show: Busytown Mysteries

Jack's Birthday Party

Over the weekend, we celebrated Jack's birthday and he got to have his first real friend party. He talked about it for weeks and was so happy to have some of his school friends over to our house. He was very insistent that it was for kids only - not adults allowed!

Thatcher & Mt. Graham

For Labor Day weekend, we decided to drive down to Thatcher and visit Dave and Becki. Dave is the new head football coach at Thatcher High, and we made it just in time to watch the game on Friday. Jack was so happy to see Sariah and Hailey! He's really missed them these last few months.

On Saturday, we drove  to nearby Mt. Graham for some camping. It was beautiful! It's amazing how cool mountain weather for a few days can help you remember that you really do love living in Arizona...even during the summer months. Ty four-wheeled us to a secluded spot and we spent the next couple days relaxing and playing with cousins.

Relaxing on the hammock.

Chad clearly didn't want his picture taken.

I'm seriously wondering how Chad, Noah, and Zach grew up so fast. These are my little nephews!

I think this may become a new tradition. Thank you, Labor Day. I really needed that.

Student of the Month

Jack is the student of the month for his class for August! There was a little ceremony at the school this morning for all the kids to come and get a certificate. We are sure proud of our little kindergartner!

 Jack with the principal, Mr. Gibson

Jack with his teacher, Mrs. Bock

Homemade Ice Cream

We got this kids' ice cream maker from a friend this week and Jack was in heaven. I love the look of pure contentment on his face.

First Day of Kindergarten

I really can't believe it, but Jack went off to Kindergarten this morning. I was so proud of myself--no tears in the classroom! Jack was excited with just a little bit of nervousness. He was really happy to see his name on the board listed as the lunch bin holder. He loves being assigned a job. Here he is ready for school: