Our two week retreat

Once again, I need to backtrack a few weeks to share a few happenings in our crazy lives. In March, we were out of our home three weeks in a row. Two of those weeks were spent with a precious family who graciously opened their doors to us during our floor renovation. The other week was spent in NYC celebrating our 7th anniversary (more to come on that adventure). We also celebrated Alexa’s 3rd birthday during our stay.


We are still trying to organize our lives from the chaos (I would show you our house, but I’d be embarrassed). Regardless, I do want to share a bit of what happened in March because a lot did happen and a lot of it was fun! Here’s a glimpse of what it was like to live with a super fun family. They were incredible hosts – hospitable, generous, funny, gracious, flexible, warm, delightful. At one point I told Shannon, “I kind of like this idea of living in community.” As our floor renovation carried on, I joked, “Ya’know, you may never get rid of us!” We are so thankful to the this family for their hospitality and a March retreat we will not soon forget. Trust me, Alexa mentions it almost everyday!! We hope we can extend the same hospitality to you whenever you are in need – we just need a bigger house!

OUR SWEET FRIENDS

Steve creating a sweet ‘coaster for all of us (er, I mean, Sulley) to enjoy.

Shannon reading the last chapter of C.S. Lewis’ The Last Battle to her little man, Sulley. She read the entire Chronicles of Narnia series to him, and we were privileged to hear the last chapter.

Sulley – a bright, creative, precious young man of God. Those sparkling eyes say it all. I mean, look what he can do with balloons!?

Cambelle Grace – a beautiful little girl who is as equally bright as Sulley and she’ll charm the socks right off of you . .. adorable!!

THE LITTLE THINGS


Shannon provided an instant coloring pad for Alexa including A’s pic (below).


Sulley hosted a green “K & H” party (our last names) for us one evening including artwork throughout the house and green cookies.




Who wouldn’t want to take a bath with these fun toys? The kids were so good about sharing their toys with Alexa.


And, we cannot forget the container filled with dress-up clothes waiting for Alexa. As you can see, Alexa was a big fan of the shoes!

As Alexa’s birthday approached, she insisted on having 10 balloons. So, Steve granted her wish. He even decorated the mantel with the balloons in her honor.

 

Cambelle even shared her bicycle helmet & tricycle with Alexa. She loved the helmet and never wanted to take it off, even to eat.

ALEXA’S 3RD BIRTHDAY

As I mentioned, Alexa celebrated her third birthday while we were at the Ho’s. We had an “official” birthday party for her that weekend but we did a few special things on her big day.

Alexa’s special birthday tee.

Meeting Daddy for lunch at A’s fave place, Fuzzy’s Taco Shop on Campus Corner.

Daddy brought home 10 balloons for his little girl.

She was thrilled!!

Those balloons went with Alexa everywhere. They are still floating in her room!

And, we had to celebrate the big day with party hats (A’s request) and some cupcakes. As you can see, Alexa loved dressing up. She’s Tinker Bell now.

She was also able to open a gift from her friends in St. Louis, Whitman & Chamblin. She loved her bracelets. She would line them up and wanted to sleep with them every evening, making sure she had all six.

ONE LAST MEMORY

Alexa not only turned three but also experienced her first wasp sting while playing at a playground nearby. She was very brave about it & once she stopped crying said, “God will heal it, Mommy.” She was right. He did!

Another big thank you to this precious family who provided us with the perfect home away from home.