It's a Wonderful Life....

My birthday 2011

2011-09-01T10:53:00.000-07:00

I was blessed to have a wonderful day with family and friends celebrating my birthday with me.

What's the good of a birthday if you can't eat 'til you're sick?! And eat we did...
Shawna made the birthday cake....it. was. a. mazing.!

On days like this, I feel more blessed than ever.....I am so thankful for my family and friends.
God is good.
All the time.

Summer Gathering

2011-09-01T10:52:00.000-07:00

We usually try to have a gathering of the "Dirty Dozen" at least twice a year....last summer we met at Steve and Marilyn's gorgeous home for a wonderful time together.

There is nothing more precious in this life to me than friendships that have lasted decades....we just "get" each other....no need to explain or put up pretences....just able to be yourself and be accepted...LOVE it!!

Good food, great company and even a dip to cool off....lovely. I am truly thankful for our six-pak friendships.

Blessings to y'all....have a great day today.

Lynden Camping

2011-07-30T00:08:00.000-07:00

We went camping just down across the line in Lynden.....even though the weather was not ideal. This year we wouldn't be doing anything if we waited for the weather to improve!

We went down with our dear friends Jim and Diane.....but apparently the bird population was much more interesting to photograph than the people!

It was such a restful time together.....just thinking about it makes me want to get the calendar out and plan another trip!

I hope you have had time to get away and relax this year!

Dayne and Amy's Wedding

2011-07-27T21:49:00.000-07:00

It was a joy to be able to attend the wedding of one of Trevor's high school friends. It was a country affair...simple and laid back....so Dayne and Amy.

Best wishes to the happy couple!

Jacob's Pre-school Graduation

2011-07-25T06:16:00.000-07:00

Celebrating another milestone in a young boy's life....now off to kindergarten!

May God guide your steps, dear Jacob,

Father's Day

2011-07-24T06:15:00.000-07:00

We had a lovely brunch at Paul and Shawna's for Father's Day this year. Gramma Rosie was in the hospital, so while Trev and Christy were over they stopped by to see her.

I don't know why I didn't have any other pics from the day.....but a good time was had by all.
Blessings to the wonderful man, the father of my children....I love you!

Jacob's 5th Birthday

2011-07-20T12:20:00.000-07:00

I don't know how it happened....but Jacob is five. years. old. He is such a sweet, dear boy.

Praying for a year filled with joy, Jay!

Island Girlies' visit

2011-07-19T23:56:00.000-07:00

Christy and the girlies came over for a surprise visit....it was a while back in tulip time. And surprise me, they did! I LOVE these kind of surprises!!

Christy, Paisley and I drove across the line for some shopping, lunch and flower sniffing. We had such a good time together....I LOVE my daughters-in-law....they are such a blessing to me!

Thanks, Girlies, for such a great time....always love our times together!

2011-07-19T23:55:00.000-07:00

More photos from the girlie's visit.....

Uncle Jordie and our sweet girls in hats knit by G-G....

I'm posting these photos, and can't believe how much Paisley has changed.....stay tuned for more recent pics of her!

Roger and Vicki's 50th Anniversary

2011-07-18T23:58:00.000-07:00

Family and friends gathered together to celebrate with Roger and Vicki....it was a joyous and blessed occasion for sure.

Roger and Vicki with Grandma Rosie and their chapter of the Clan
Roger and Vicki are such a blessing to all of us....they have served the Lord in ministry all of their lives.

It doesn't always happen, but ALL of our own family were able to be there

The Mac Clan

Just one was missing (Lexie)
Thanks Roger and Vicki for being such a Godly example to our family....we love you!

2011-07-17T23:00:00.000-07:00

We are blessed beyond measure....thank you Lord for your love, grace and mercy that you continue to bestow on our family.
We are blessed!

A quick visit

2011-07-13T23:51:00.000-07:00

We spent the day on the Island to visit with the girlies and their parental units.....

We drove together to Victoria....walked the Inner Harbour, happened upon some fun stuff, had a terrific lunch together and drove back to Duncan where Christy made us a great meal.

It was a whirlwind trip....but well worth the cuddles!

G-ma's Birthday

2011-07-12T23:50:00.000-07:00

We had a quiet celebration for Mum's 91st Birthday....she is doing okay, but still wants to "go home". We love her and want the best for her.....praying that God gives her the desire of her heart. It is with hope in Christ that we find joy in living and dying.....I am so thankful for this hope!

May Day Parade 2011

2011-07-11T23:53:00.000-07:00

We took the g-boys to Ft. Langley to see the May Day parade.....

Apparently a lot of the parade was TOO loud!

We walked through the Fort.....and Cole and Grampy built a wall....

Antiques and animals, and a look at the train tracks....

A fun day was had by all.
I hope you are enjoying the summer.....yeah! The sun is finally out!

Bob goes to Africa

2011-07-11T21:29:00.000-07:00

Bob went on a mission's trip to Africa in April. He and several other men went over to help build a school in the Village of Hope in Mongu, Zambia. He started out by spending a few extra days in London, England and by chance it was over the Royal Wedding Day. It was just a quick trip and has just wet his appetite for all things historic....we are planning to go back and spend more time there next year.

The best part of the trip for Bob was the children.....he was able to teach a bible story to the entire school one day....they won his heart.

After the work week, they were able to go on a safari...A-MAX-ING!

They saw so many animals.....it truly was a trip of a lifetime.

They had a blessed time together and Bob was grateful he was able to go.

Easter 2011

2011-07-11T09:00:00.000-07:00

We celebrated Easter a week early this year to accommodate everyone's schedule. No problem...a good time was had by all.

We celebrated Trevor's Birthday too.

Crazy cousins....always enjoy their time together!

2011-07-11T08:00:00.000-07:00

Such dear wee people.....just love 'em!

Larry's 60th

2011-07-10T23:54:00.000-07:00

What a joy to celebrate life's milestones with friends......we have known Ethel and Larry for half of his life...WOW! What a priviledge to call these dear people our friends.

It wouldn't be a Johnston Heights party without some silly games!

Larry and his twin celebrate their birthdays on the same day each year....go figure!

It is always good to catch up with old friends....just pick up where we left off.

I left the party filled with gratitude for friends who remain friends even if we don't see them all the time.

Blessed.

Mother's Day

2011-07-09T23:55:00.000-07:00

We have made it a family tradition to go to Fort Langley Golf Club for Sunday brunch on Mother's Day....this year was no different. Except that Bob was mil in Africa, and of course the Island Chapter were having a celebration of their own in their neck of the woods.

It is always fun to gather together....I am blessed to have my family so close at hand.
Thank you, Lord for all your rich blessings upon our family.

Las Vegas Trip

2011-07-08T18:34:00.000-07:00

Since Bob was away for almost three weeks, I set out to make the best of my time alone....so I had my dear friend Joan fly from Ottawa and meet me in Las Vegas. It was an AMAZING time away! We stayed at the Trump Hotel, and I asked for an ungrade, and they gave us a suite for the price of a hotel room....$110 per night.....sweet! FYI - there is NO CASINO in the Trump Hotel!

We wandered around the beautiful hotels.....loved the Wynn.....their brunch was INCREDIBLE!

Shawna asked me to get a photo of some celebrities.....even though Donald was in town for Steven Wynn's wedding....this was the best I could do.

2011-07-08T18:32:00.000-07:00

This was in the hotel lobby....the breakfast was over the top lovely. We definitely made sure we were well fed.....what's the good of a girl's weekend if you can't eat 'til you're sick? We also managed to shop a little...okay....alot!

Beautiful fresh flowers in the hotels

Great timing.....we attended the Women of Faith Comference.....such a blessing to share it with my friend.

We spend a couple of afternoons at the hotel pool.....lovely. Thanks, Joan for the great adventure.

I'm thinking this might have to be a yearly trek.....let me know if you're interested!

Bob's amazing simulated flight day

2011-07-07T23:00:00.000-07:00

One of our friends is an airline pilot, and asked if Bob and a couple of friends would like to go onto the flight simulator used for training.....ah....YES, please!

They had a great time....male bonding....doing the guy thing. Bob was THRILLED to be able to do this....thanks, Arnie!

Kauai Vacation

2011-07-06T11:00:00.000-07:00

Back in March we had an unexpected opportunity fall into our laps......don't you hate when that happens? So we quickly packed and flew off to Kauai.

The last time we were in Kauai was 36 years ago.....this is where we stayed the last time with my Mom and Dad.

2011-07-06T10:50:00.000-07:00

We found a small village having an orchid festival....very quaint.

Our generous hosts, Steve and Marilyn

2011-07-06T10:40:00.001-07:00

Sunday brunch out with Steve and Marilyn.

Apparently, a truck full of chickens and roosters overturned in the 1980's...and they were fruitful and multiplied!

Walks on the beach, exploring the small towns

2011-07-06T10:40:00.000-07:00

Our favorite beach was in front of the Sheraton Hotel....the harbour where the cruise ships stopped

Beautiful old church

2011-07-06T10:30:00.000-07:00

Bob and I biked the terrific trail around the south end of the Island...gorgeous!

This was our last night in Kauai....dinner at an amazing restaurant on the beach.

We felt very blessed to spend time enjoying this Island paradise with such great friends.
Thanks Steve and Marilyn for sharing!

Robin's Nest

2011-07-03T11:33:00.000-07:00

We have been hosts to a robin's family for the second year in a row....I love that they thought it a good enough housing arrangement to return to it again this year.
I love God's creation.
God is good. All the time.

Bob's Birthday

2011-07-02T01:22:00.000-07:00

Wow....it really has been a while since I recorded some of the happenings in our life....this was back in March. We had a relaxed celebration at Paul and Shawna's....always a good time.

Wishing my hubby a year full of God's richest blessings!

2011-07-01T17:27:00.000-07:00

Be still your heart.....I'm finally back from my long, unintentional hiatus. I have lots to catch you up on....so stay close.

While Bob was away in Zambia on a Missions trip (more on that later), we celebrated Mother's Day with our traditional brunch at Fort Langley Golf Club. It was even better than usual....food was incredible, the atmosphere was relaxed, and the company delightful.

I was spoiled with gifts....I am blessed and thank God for my dear family.

And a photo of me and my missing husband.....although I missed having him there, I knew he was having a terrific time in Zambia.

Women's Retreat 2011

2011-03-11T01:34:00.000-08:00

It's been YEARS since I have attended a ladies retreat....and I wasn't too sure if it would still be "my cuppa tea", but I brought along my SIL and headed out the valley to Harrison Hot Springs.

It is a lovely spot to get away from it all.....so serene and peaceful.

Shawna did a workshop on cake decorating.....she did a stellar job!

Lois brought along her SIL Lyla.....the four of us had a great time together....out for a walk in the afternoon. I love when an organizing committee plans specific down time for everyone to "just be".

Our nighttime "party-in-a-bag" to take back to our room....we laughed 'til we cried.

Jewelry confession is good for the soul....

On the bed ~ Lyla's must-haves she brought "just in case" for the weekend....In the box ~ Lois's weekend collection.

We shared communion during the Sunday morning session

At our PJ party we discussed the usual ladies stuff...clothes, our aging bodies...hair and make-up. We also discussed (aka mocked and laughed 'til we cried) our vanity and that of someone else who always insisted on draping her hand across her neck to "hide" her age....thus the photo below.....us'all trying to hide our age!

Did it work??

Line dancing for exercise...great fun even if I'm VERY uncoordinated!

It ended up being a wonderful weekend spent with women I love...we topped it off with lunch and shopping on our way back home.....lovely!

I need to make a point of setting aside time to glean from and pour into other women in my life...very worthwhile!

Blessings to y'all and hope you have time to spend with a friend real soon!

Bob....

2011-02-25T08:00:00.000-08:00

the dog whisperer.
Talk about an entourage!

The Girlies

2011-02-24T08:00:00.000-08:00

Raced over to the Island for a quick visit before we took off for a vacation down south in January.

Look at those faces ~ no words required

Always a warm welcome from the Island chapter of the Mac Clan.

Blessed.

The Dirty Dozen

2011-02-23T08:00:00.000-08:00

Our annual Six Pack Christmas gathering includes our dear husbands - thus the name - The Dirty Dozen

Ken and Evie hosted a fabulous dinner this year. An evening to look forward to.....great friends, lots of laughs, a feeling of comfort and belonging. Wonderful.

The boys - take one and then take two

The girls - take...well, maybe....five

The girls - take....I lost count....too fun!

Hmmm.....I think it's time for a six-pack dinner again real soon.

Grampy's helper - Coley

2011-02-22T20:00:00.000-08:00

Grampy was finishing up with the Cranberry Creek stuff and Cole was a big helper.

Christmas 2011 - Let the making merry begin!

2011-02-22T17:30:00.000-08:00

Trevor and Christy came over the weekend before Christmas.....so we began a full-on family celebration time that continued right through to the New Year.

Grandma Rosie and GG got some cuddle time with the latest and greatest g-babies.

Oh, dear Paisley....you are sweetness itself!

Having tea at Grammies......Shawna had tea at Grandma Rosie's in that very same cup and saucer.

2011-02-22T17:00:00.000-08:00

Jacob was not too enthusiastic about his part in the Christmas concert....a grave understatement!

He called out to his Mommy during a quiet part...."Mom! Do you have my present?" He had been to Cole's concert a few days before, and knew that a present was forthcoming.....he just wanted to make sure his torture would be rewarded.

So great to have BOTH uncles there to see the concert.

We made our trip to downtown Spaghetti Factory and then on to the Stanley Park Train.....such fun!

What is it about boys and trains? We picked a terrific dry evening to go downtown which is hard to do in Vancouver in December.....we felt very blessed to be able to spend such good times together as a family.

2011-02-22T16:00:00.000-08:00

With having a business that ramps up right before Christmas, it is a joy to come home, sit under the tree and take time to reflect on the gift of Christ to us.

2011-02-22T15:30:00.000-08:00

Crazy friends and family times....laughing, playing games, and eating, of course!

~I just simply LOVE Christmas~

The family times ~ The fellowship with friends

~The way the carols cause my heart to sing~

God's son came down from His heavenly home for me

~I am thankful~

The big 3-0

2011-02-22T08:00:00.000-08:00

This was a milestone year for Shawna.....WOW....my girlie is 30!

So her dear friend Lisa planned a surprise brunch.....and we were all surprised when we actually succeeded in surprising her....she is so nosey and perceptive!

(click on the photo - check out her stunned look - she was really confused!)

Paul planned another dinner event in the evening with a whole different group of friends.....so needless to say she was well celebrated and loved-on this year.

Sorry, I don't really know what I was thinking, but I didn't take a single photo of the lovely group of ladies.
We had a wonderful time together....thanks Lisa, for hosting such a lovely brunch!

My lovely girlie.....she is such a delightful daughter!

Fall family birthday celebration

2011-02-21T14:00:00.000-08:00

We have alot of birthdays to celebrate during November/December....so this year I announced that we would be combining our celebrations throughout the year to better solve the coordinating of events. Although it was met with some disagreement.....most agreed that it was just more sensible to have two or three joint events....instead of a dozen dinner dates to try to work into our already busy schedules.

So we celebrated Paul, Shawna, and Christy with the traditional ice cream pie.
I sometimes can't believe that I have such grown-up kids....they are all a joy to me.

Visiting the Royals

2011-02-21T12:16:00.000-08:00

Always a joy to visit the Island Princesses...and we come away with the riches rewards.....hugs, cuddles and kisses. Oh, and we really do love to see the royal parental units as well.....just so's ya know.

We had a free night's accomodation from expedia, so we took advantage of it and stayed in Victoria before we headed home. It was a great day....and it was so relaxing since it was just before the madness of Cranberry Creek overtook our life for a season.

I am blessed and thankful for each one of our family.

I hope you are able to spend time with your loved ones.

Is it here yet?

2011-02-21T00:13:00.000-08:00

We've had a few sunshiny days around here and it SO makes me want spring to be sprung! I know it will be short lived and the rain and blustery clouds will form again.....but in the mean time....my word for this year is.....

MORE: in greater quantity, amount, measure, degree or number; in or to a greater extent or degree

More of Him
Less of me
Christ in me

I desire to seek Him more intently, look for and find Him more often in the everyday things of life. I want to practice being less and work at having Him be more. I want His grace to be seen, not my ungracious, self-serving attitude. I want His mercy to shine through, just as He pours out mercy on me. May I have the grace to show mercy regardless of how unmerited it is. For I have oh, so much grace and mercy shown to me by Him.

I want to shift my time spent....more of Him; less of me.
I want my days to count more for him; less for me.
I want to find my worth in Him; not in me.

I don't really know what MORE will look like by the time 2011 is done, but I know that it has already pushed me towards a stronger pursuit of God and His purpose in my life.

My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. II Cor 12:9

Be blessed, dear ones, and I pray that you may be encouraged to find MORE of Him in your day.

Cole's Third Birthday

2011-02-17T23:53:00.000-08:00

This dear wee man is so full of life....he is always a joy and often a surprise.....

We had a great time celebrating his special day.

Hmmm....his birthday was in November....I'm catchin' up....only 4 months behind!
I have been spending time categorizing my photos, and saving them....feels good to have the job almost done. Now just to catch you up with the last few months....oh, and start to clean out closets and cupboards. I do love rainy days for pushing me to clean and organize.

Hope you are spending your time well......be blessed, dear friends!

Cousins...

2011-02-09T11:35:00.000-08:00

Although the cousins don't get to see each other every other day...they make up for it by lovin' each other real good when they do get together. I so enjoy watching them!

2011-02-09T11:34:00.000-08:00

Just one word
~ DELIGHTFUL ~

Thank you Lord, for our dear G-kidlets.

Time marches on....

2011-01-24T21:31:00.000-08:00

And I think sometimes I get trampled by it. First my word for this New Year....well, how 'bout my word for last year.

It was PURPOSE....I decided on it but didn't post about it....coincidentally Shawna had chosen the same word. But it was interesting how different the word meant for both of us. My intent was to find a truer purpose....to set out to ensure I continue to have purpose...not to just let my life be lived, but to live it with purpose. To mark things with a purpose, not just to put in time. Does that make sense? It did to me. So I worked at looking for the purpose God placed within the common living and doing of life.

What I found was that there is great purpose in the smallest of tasks....I just need to be willing to see the greater picture and not underestimate what I can do within my sphere of influence. I will not belittle what God's purpose is for me just because it is not a world recognized "big deal". I will continue to be me, and be me with a purpose.

I'm still working on finding purpose...it's a definite work in progress. I trust you too can work at finding God's purpose in the mundane tasks of life.

I am standing firm on God's word....

Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the LORD’s purpose that prevails.

Proverbs 19:21

Waiting on Baby

2011-01-23T20:16:00.000-08:00

Back dated post - actual date - end of September 2010....
We got the call that waters had broken....so we didn't waste any time to finish packing up our wee house-on-wheels and catch the big-hairy-goat over to the Island.
Well, as baby would have it....we were in for a bit of a wait. But we had a wonderful time visiting in the mean time.....Christy was such a trooper....with no complaints.

We lunched together (while at lunch on the first day there....wee Denay just quietly reached over and took my hand in hers.....oh, how I love that wee girlie!)

Christy and I had time to relax and have pedicures together.

2011-01-23T20:15:00.000-08:00

Denay and Grampy doing computer work together.

2011-01-23T20:10:00.000-08:00

The weather was gorgeous, so we took a drive up to Lake Cowichan....stunning.

2011-01-23T20:05:00.000-08:00

Check out the serial photo op.....ha! we really did have time on our hands.
(click on the pics for a closer view)

2011-01-23T20:00:00.000-08:00

Denay in charge of the camera....we were out celebrating our 38th wedding anniversary....still no baby.

Finally

2011-01-23T19:59:00.001-08:00

Since I posted about her arrival before....it comes as no surprise that Paisley Joy finally came with little fuss or commotion. What a joy to finally hold that wee babe....so wanted and loved.

2011-01-23T19:58:00.000-08:00

I can hardly believe that this tiny newborn is already over three months old!
Bless her dear heart.
As an aside, I'm hoping to not EVER get so behind in posting again.....I REALLY like order, and this muxed ip way of blogging is annoying!

I still have some catching up to do...so come back real soon!

Weekend with the boys

2011-01-23T19:56:00.000-08:00

We had the joy of spending a weekend with our g-boys while P&S celebrated their anniversary back in September. As you can see....it takes alot out of us, but we love every minute of it.
Each of our grandkidlets are so individual, and each one holds a special unique place in our hearts.
I love them so and thank Godd for them each day.

One last kick...

2010-11-02T21:59:00.000-07:00

At the can before we put the trailer to bed for the winter. We took a few days and drove to Lake Chelan in Washington State.....beautiful drive and great company. Oh, just typing this makes me want to fast-forward to the summer. Did I tell you? I. love. our. trailer. Not a crazy, weird, unhealthy love....just a feeling blessed, really enjoy it, so thankful kinda love.

2010-11-02T21:50:00.000-07:00

Our dear friends, Terry and Lois traveled with us....they just bought a trailer, too. We always have a good time together....so thankful for great friends.

2010-11-02T20:59:00.000-07:00

One of the greatest parts of traveling with the trailer is that Tucker gets to come with us...we are crazy about our dog, and miss him when we travel without him. I know. We are kinda silly. Funny, though. We don't care. Tucker's awesome...just ask anyone who's had the privilege of meeting him...they'll tell ya....Tucker's awesome.

2010-11-02T20:00:00.000-07:00

We live in a beautful part of God's world....we look forward to discovering it bit by bit in our little home-on-wheels.

Thanksgiving

2010-11-01T17:20:00.000-07:00

We had a fairly quiet Thanksgiving this year.....but thankful all the same. With alot of our family unable to spend the day with us....we had our niece Rheanne and her hubby Jordan join us. I am so thankful for all of God's blessings...espeically our dear family and friends.

Book Ends...

2010-10-07T11:26:00.000-07:00

Or maybe that's too stark....how 'bout two peas in a pod? Or a jam sandwich?....two fresh slices of bread surround by sweetness....you just want to eat em up!

Mauve is Paisley Joy ~ Lime is Denay Catherine

Any suggestions on how to describe these two wee cherubs?

Paisley Joy

2010-10-07T11:23:00.000-07:00

Our newest wee g-baby arrived...Yippee!! I was sure that it was a boy....but she surprised her Grammie...no dissappointment here though. I LOVE this wee girlie!

She was born on October 1 @ 5:17 pm weighing 7lbs 12 oz....a whole 10 oz bigger than her older sister Denay....18 inches long with a good stock of dark brown hair.

Mommy Daddy and big sister are all doing well....I think it helps that Paisley is such a good baby...so far.

I am so proud of the wonderful Dad that Trevor has become....and Christy is just the BEST Mom to my wee girlies. She makes childbirth look like a walk in the park....and we know it's not, so I take my hat off to her....she is so brave and her attitude is just the best. No whining here!

Denay has adjusted well, and simply LOVES her little sister.

We are so blessed.....two g-boys and two g-girls. God is SO good. All the time.

Athlete of the Summer

2010-10-07T11:13:00.000-07:00

We love our cruiser bikes.....we try to get out as much as possible in the summer. Greater Vancouver has so many great biking trails....we were doing the Fort to Fort Trail in Fort Langley when I got a boo-boo.

So...my new biking rule: Dismount often! Especailly going downhill across narrow bridges that have sharp turns. 'nuff said.

Yes, I will ride again!

Be blessed, and hope you can catch the last of some sun before the rain begins!

My Oh My!

2010-09-29T23:57:00.000-07:00

I just had to post this....a blast from the past.

Don and Trudy, Ken and Louise, and Bob and I and the nine kidlets. I love that we still have relationship with each of them....I'm still "Auntie Jo" to the kidlets now with kidlets of their own.

The family of God ~ Such a gift!

Celebration X 40

2010-09-29T23:08:00.000-07:00

We first met Ken and Louise before our youngest, Trevor and their youngest, Andrew were born and we've been friends ever since. We don't see each other often, but we seem to celebrate occasions together....and this was no exception. Their kids planned a surprise dinner to celebrate their 40th wedding anniversary and it was a joy to be part of such a gathering.

I am so thankful God has brought such rich relationships into our lives.....amazing friends who have done life right along side us. Oh, how we have laughed.....oh, how we have cried. But we have found comfort doing it together.

Happy 40th Anniversary, Ken and Louise....we have seen God's grace served in abundance over your life...thanks for sharing and spreading it around.

Family Wedding

2010-09-29T22:07:00.000-07:00

What a joy to share a day together with family celebrating such a joyous occasion....Bob's brother Roger and Vicki's first grandchild to be wed.....Rick and Pam's oldest and first child.....Laura married her southern gentleman Lane.

The day was sunny and warm, sweet and simple, lovely and elegant

2010-09-29T22:05:00.000-07:00

The Bob Mac's that were able to attend....we missed Trevor and Christy but it was too close to baby No. 2 to be away across the line in Washington State.

The atmosphere was relaxed and we had plenty of time to sit and chat with family that we love but don't see often....life just gets too busy....but this day we stopped and enjoyed each other....caught up with who's kids were doing what.

And we saw God's hand on two young lives....what a joy...pure and simple.

We drove home feeling an amazing sense of wellbeing....of contentment. It was a REALLY good day as we witnessed God's blessing upon our family....God IS good. ALL the time.

Derby Reach

2010-09-28T19:19:00.000-07:00

Some of our home group met up and walked the Fort Trail and enjoyed some fresh strawberry pie....Mmmm

Jacob and Cole were along for fun.....

2010-09-28T19:17:00.000-07:00

Watching Cole's ball float away down the river.....oops

George brought an old chorus book....we sang our way through a pot of coffee

Isn't the world around us beautiful? I love living in the lower mainland of BC

Stop and take the time to enjoy the world around you today.

Be blessed, dear friends!

Whistler in the Summertime....

2010-09-28T06:36:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I'm trying to catch up on all the posting that I've failed to post over the summer....with the fall now set into full swing it seems like old news.....sorry but here's another look back on some summer fun.

We were able to spend a few days in Whistler.....thanks to Michael and Jen for their gorgeous townhouse.

Steve and Lyla joined us spur-of-the-moment and we had a great time just chillin' together.

Summer Visit

2010-09-27T18:37:00.000-07:00

We spent a terrific morning over brunch with our dear friends Mark and Anna along with their dear g-girl, Berea. They now live in Calgary....and Anna is one of our best Cranberry Creek girls.

Always good to catch up with long-time friends....I love being able to just pick-up where you left off.
God has blessed us richly. I am thankful.

Denay turns two...

2010-09-26T19:35:00.000-07:00

On a gorgeous July weekend, we crossed the water to the Island to celebrate our wee Denay's second birthday. She is such a dollie....I just love her so.

As you can see, Trevor had the barbie well under control....ha!

We always enjoy our time on the Island, and this was no exception.

I am so thankful that all our kids and kidlets are close by.....even if we need to catch a ferry to see some of them....I know that I am blessed, and thank God for the close relationship we all share.

We are camped out on the Island as I write this....awaiting the arrival of the newest member of the Mac Family- Island Chapter. Stay tuned!

Granville Island Theater

2010-09-26T18:18:00.000-07:00

This past year we had season tickets to the Granville Island Theater. This evening we met up with a bunch of good friends for dinner and on to the theater.....I love Vancouver and always enjoy our time spent there....especially with great company.

Kinda fun to star watch, too....we had "Will" of Will and Grace at the table next to us....he was performing at the Stanley Theater later that evening.

Blessings to y'all

Close to home camping

2010-09-13T19:14:00.000-07:00

We took advantage of a window of sunshine and crossed the border to Lynden to camp. Jordan and Lindsey came and spent Sunday afternoon with us.....sorry, no photos. But we had a great time poking thru the only antique store open in town, enjoyed chatting and eating, had a fire and of course s'mores (thanks Linds for the supplies).

I don't know what it is about camping....it just makes you slow down....I love it!

If Tucker would talk (we know he could, he just won't), he would say that he loves camping, too. When we are packing to leave, we often find him waiting in the trailer...."no one's taking this thing anywhere without me!"

camping 2

2010-09-13T19:13:00.000-07:00

The next day Paul and Shawna dropped the boys off for a sleepover....Grammie had a quick game of kick-the-ball....they are such fun!

Camp fire and s'mores

The next morning as we sat for breakfast and Bob asked who would like to say grace....Jacob volunteered and proceeded to thank God for Grammie and Grampie; for the new trailer; for the new big, black Ford to pull the trailer; for being able to go camping with Grammie and Grampie. He went on and on....his sincerity of heart was obvious....our hearts were full. Does it get better than this?!

Dear, sweet boys....they are just too precious for words.
Thank you Lord for these lovable boys.

A walk in the park....

2010-09-12T19:11:00.000-07:00

We took advantage of a lovely afternoon and drove downtown to walk the sea wall. We live in such a gorgeous part of Gods' world.....especially in the sunshine.

It is sometimes so easy to just stay home and do the usual...but it is SO worth it when we take the time and effort to enjoy the beauty around us.

Hope you can take some time to discover God's world around you.
Be blessed, my friends!

A dear, old friend....

2010-09-11T19:12:00.000-07:00

We had a visitor to town the other day.....

Marion Shodean came to visit Mum from Eugene. Oregon. She had wanted to come to the birthday celebration, but realized her passport had expired. So this dear 91 year old got her paperwork in order and planned a trip with two of her girls. (Bob hadn't seen the girls for about 40 years)

As an aside - my ironing board that I have used since we married 38 years ago was a Shodean hand-me-down....it is an antique solid wooden one. I've always loved that it had a history....it has "Shodean" scrawled on the bottom.

Ray and Marion were Bob's first pastors.....Marion was his Sunday School teacher, and she lead him to the Lord. Very special lady, indeed.

It was a joy to visit with this dear saint and her girls and also to see Mum and Marion reminisce together.
Simple pleasures are sometimes the best.

God IS good. ALL the time.

Our maiden voyage

2010-09-10T19:11:00.000-07:00

It's been in the works for quite a while now. That is a bit of an understatement! We bought a motorhome - took it back the same day we bought it (discovered $3000 worth of work required). Then bought a trailer - returned it the day the owner delivered it to us (the floor was rotten sawdust). In between we looked, checked, shopped and researched until we FINALLY found a gem of a trailer.

Then we had to find a car to pull it with......oh, how I LOVE car shopping....ya, not so much.

But, we found the perfect fit for us. I had alot of fun shopping for our new wee home on wheels. Both of us are REALLY enjoying this new adventure. We have camped alot over the years, just not recently....it is different than when we had three kids along with us. We will be able to take along our own accomodation when we go to visit the kids....we plan to take it over soon to visit the newest addition to the Mac Family-Island chapter. We have great memories of the good ol' days....so we are looking forward to making new memories with just the two of us.

(click on the photos to enlarge)

Our first venture out was to Anacortes for a couple of nights. Our good friends, Terry and Lois joined us (they just bought a trailer, too). And, yes, Tucker likes to sit in his own chair by the firepit!

We are truly thankful for God provision....even with our little RV.

A visit with our Angel

2010-09-09T15:00:00.000-07:00

We made a quick trip to the Island to deliver a long-overdue anniversary gift. We had dinner together and walked the mall and ate ice cream. We had a wonderful time with our wee Denay....she is such a dollie!

I really don't know what we did for entertainment before we had the grands!?

Our Singin' Angel

2010-09-09T13:39:00.000-07:00

This was recorded while on our way back to catch the "Big-Hairy-Goat" back to the mainland.....needless to say by the time she was through several renditions of this and 'Somewhere over the Rainbow'....she had, yet again, stolen her Grammie and Grampy's hearts.

I could apologize for the poor video quality, but the audio more than makes up for it....just take a listen....

Stop, find an angel, and listen....it will make your day!

Grandma Rosie's 90th Birthday Celebration

2010-09-08T20:09:00.000-07:00

Even though Grandma Rosie is not one to take center stage....we planned a day set aside to celebrate her....she was quite overwhelmed by all the fuss that was being made. She is old and tired, but thankfully still very much in her right mind....and still with her dry sense of humor intact.

We held the tea at her beautiful home....on the mezzanine floor....it was a lovely sunny afternoon. The perfect backdrop for a day filled with family and friends honoring Grandma Rosie.

I was thankful that all my kids and kidlets were able to be there....unfortunately, I didn't have the presents of mind to take a photo of all of us with G-ma....argh!?

2010-09-08T19:08:00.000-07:00

The invitations were sent far and wide and the response was overwhelming....but no surprise....everyone LOVES Grandma Rosie!

We had extended family travel from all over to help us celebrate.....it was a wonderful day for all of us.

It was great to catch up with everyone.

There were old family friends, church friends from years ago...

Cousins, Second cousins, once removed....

It was a terrific day full of reminders of God's blessings upon not only Mum, but on our entire family.

Happy Birthday, Mum! We love you and pray that God will keep you well as he makes the final touches on your new home in glory.....we all know that's where you'd rather be....

Oh, that will be glory for me, glory for me, glory for me

When by His grace I shall look on His face

That will be glory, be glory for me

Be blessed, dear friends!

September has arrived

2010-09-06T22:16:00.000-07:00

And with it a cool weather front.....we woke up to rain this morning, and it just felt like a day to spend hunkered down. On days like this I just get the urge to bake, read a book, turn the fire on. I love the change in seasons...even though I don't want to say goodbye to sunshine and long summer days....there is something warm and cozy about rainy days. (Spoken as a true born n' bred Vancouverite)

We spent the weekend at a lovely family wedding....more of that to come shortly.
Hope you had a great long weekend, dear friends!

More of Cannon Beach

2010-08-22T17:36:00.000-07:00

Here's a few more pics of our time in Cannon Beach.

Bob and I walked into the wee town for breakfast and found a lovely little spot for coffee and a shared cinnamon bun.....yummmm

On the dull day, we decided to explore the aquarium up the coast a bit....we fed the seals.... Jacob looked at the specimens....and Cole touched them...all of them.

Our lovely hotel room with a gorgeous view of the coast.

We live in a beautiful corner of the world....I love exploring it. We hadn't been to the Oregon coast for ages....it was well worth the drive.

Vacation time at Cannon Beach

2010-08-21T17:35:00.000-07:00

The Oregon Coast is magnificent and especially Cannon Beach...we met up with P&S and the boys while they were camping there.

We found a lovely hotel right on the beach with a fireplace and ocean view....lovely.

We walked, ate fish and chips, poked thru the shops and just relaxed. It was a wonderful few days....then drove leisurely back home. (I must admit I had more than one shopping accident along the way!)

I truely believe that sometimes.....time spent "just being" is time well spent.

Just being you; just being in God's beautiful world; just being together....In my opinion, we sometimes try too hard "to do", and don't spend near enough time "just being".

I guess that goes along with - Be still and know that I am God.

Hope you can find the time to "just be" today.

Be blessed, my friends!

For this child we prayed

2010-08-20T10:32:00.000-07:00

This is definitely a catch-up post.....time stops for no man....Kenzie is now FIVE MONTHS old....where does the time go?

My good friend Diana and her 1st granddaughter (she has SIX grandsons!) Everyone is special and loved SO much.....but the first girl....well...it's just fun for Diane to shop on the pink side of the store now!

Laura and Josh have been waiting a while for this wee girlie....they had a miscarriage last year...so it is very true.....for this child we prayed.

While visiting wee Kenzie Diane, I had the honor of witnessing Josh's Grandparents hold this precious babe and pray over her....Kenzie has a strong and mighty heritage....what a blessing!

Welcome Kenzie Diane....you are a special gift from God.

Grandma Rosie turns 90!

2010-08-14T19:08:00.000-07:00

On the very day of her Birthday the brothers three and their wives had a luncheon to celebrate all things Rosie. And, yes, they do all look alike! Ron and Roger are 12 and 14 years older than Bob.....Robert was a wee surprise!

My MIL is the best MIL in the world....she is kind, and sweet....quick-witted and loving. She had missed Dad terribly since his passing.....but tries to be patient waiting for her turn to go home.

A few of her 'tablemates' and staff wishing Mum a Happy Birthday

Jacob and Cole stopped in to wish G-ma a Happy Birthday, too.

We had a Royal Celebration later in the month....I'll give the details of that special day soon.

Be blessed, dear friends....call your Mother!

Jacob's 4th Birthday

2010-08-12T19:24:00.000-07:00

Jay-Jay turned four in June.....we had a wonderful time celebrating him. He is such a dear boy!

Apparently Jacob and Cole are all about the surprise!

Happy Birthday, Jacob, Grammie and Grampy love you!

We have been busy shopping for cars and trailers...more on that to come!

Forever friends

2010-07-30T19:38:00.000-07:00

We had the joy of celebrating a milestone for our dear friend, Ken.

Yes, he is counting into the next set of tens....but he seems to be ill-affected by it....he's been white haired for years now....the numbers finally are matching up with his hair color!

He didn't want anything special (that's his style) but we did manage to plan a minor (as opposed to major) surprise. We sat for hours and laughed and ate and talked and laughed some more (the fat-lady singing card was the entertainment for the evening).

We have all been through lots over the years, and our friendship has stood the test of time.

We celebrated and rejoiced together....and left feeling blessed and content.

My heart is full....thank you, Lord!

Denay's week

2010-07-26T07:06:00.000-07:00

Whilst her M&D were vacationing in Cuba, the Princess graced us on the Mainland with her royal presence. Grampy and Grammie were thrilled to have a whole week of fun with the girlie. She is just so easy-going.....she is adaptable, and loves to have fun. Although she is just a pip-squeek....she is not afraid to get in there and try new stuff.

Playing at McDonald's with her cousins.

Gettin' all purdy for another visit from Jacob.

There is no end of happy inside this girlie....G&G just simply love you to bits, dear, sweet Denay.

We welcome a royal visit anytime and remain your loyal subjects.

Hope you can find yourself a princess.....they are such treasures!

It's a dog's life

2010-07-25T17:41:00.000-07:00

If you have ever sung Happy Birthday to someone at our house, you'll know that Tucker barks his way through the entire song. We don't know whether it's our singing or the excitement of the celebration, but he never fails to bark as we sing.

Well, this year as we began to sing to Bob....Cole stood boldly in front of Grampy and proceeded to bark, and bark, and bark....Tucker barked....and we laughed 'til we cried. Never a dull moment when Cole is in the room....love you to bits, dear boy!

God's handiwork

2010-07-24T20:03:00.000-07:00

I'd like to lay claim to these roses....like I did something amazing to have them grow in my garden.....but I must give credit where credit is due. If it weren't for God's creative hand these poor roses would not have survived under mine.

What a showy example of His work, I consider myself blessed to be the caretaker of such pure, rich beauty.

Look for God's hand in your garden today....it is not hard to find.

Be blessed, dear friends

Boys and cars

2010-07-23T07:36:00.000-07:00

What is it about boys and cars? Boys like to get where they're going and do it as fast as possible....Jay and Cole were steady as she goes and not going very fast, but we all know this is the beginning of a great love affair with cars.

They come by it very honestly with both Daddy and Grampie loving all-things-cars.

And, no, my daffodils are not still blooming...this was way back in the spring. Still catching you up on things. I'm off to enjoy the summer sunshine.

Oh, and thanks for those that commented to let me know you were here.....I FEEL the love!

Be blessed!

Just wondering....

2010-07-17T10:00:00.000-07:00

Do you think you could let me know you were here?

Now this doesn't apply to the one who stopped by from Linkping, Ostergotlands, Sweden. And of course I will excuse New Delhi, India, too. And really, even though you speak the same language, I don't expect to hear from Gateshead, UK. I don't even know where Amersfoort, Utrecht, Netherlands is exactly (although it's kinda fun to say) so I will excuse them as well.

But I DO expect to hear from you......I just need a little encouragement here, folks! Show the love!

That's all I got.

Rant over.

Be blessed.

Phoenix

2010-07-17T05:50:00.000-07:00

From Sedona, we drove down to Phoenix where we had rented a house from some friends.

The cactus was blooming......these gorgeous flowers were the size of cabbage heads!

This was the terrific house we stayed in....the sunsets were spectacular from the lanae.

Karen and Otto had us for Easter dinner.....such a treat to share the day with our friends, old and new.

Jim and Diane came down and joined us for a few days. Us girls planned a surprise for the boy's (an early Father's Day gift) ....a day at Nascar. Bob was THRILLED.

The girls shopped, the guys golfed, we all sat and read by the pool and we all managed to eat well, too.

2010-07-17T05:40:00.000-07:00

The girls out for lunch and shopping.....always a good time!

We found a few gorgeous old hotels to wander around in...and eat at, of course.

This one was simply regal.....very grand.

We ate Sunday brunch at this one.....the grounds were beautiful and tranquil.....a perfect spot to relax in.

We had never vacationed in Phoenix, so this was kind of a test....it passed with flying colors. I still LOVE Hawaii, and I do miss the ocean when we are in the desert, but I still think that Phoenix is a great vacation destination. We loved the location we stayed at and would highly recommend it.

Enjoy the sun today, friends.....Yippee for summmer!

Sedona

2010-07-15T05:37:00.000-07:00

Back in the early spring we flew to Arizona for a vacation. We started in Sedona...a small artsy town surrounded by gorgeous rock formations. It is quite high into the mountains so it was a bit chilly but gorgeous just the same.

We walked the town. We browsed the chops.

We drove to the Grand Canyon.

Check. One more thing off the bucket list.

We had lunch at the original El Tovar Hotel (1905) built right on the edge of the canyon. It was like stepping back in time.....the ambiance of the hotel, and even the service of the staff were reminicent of days gone by....it was a great way to spend the afternoon.

I love adventuring into new-to-me territory....always fun to explore God's handywork.

Hope you take time to explore new horizons....blessings from me to you

VIP hockey box

2010-07-14T10:23:00.000-07:00

Okay, OKAY, all ready! I know it has been an embarrassingly long time since my last post....so this is my official apology for not being here for you. But thankfully the rumors of my death have been greatly exaggerated....I'm still here....alive and kickin'. LOL

Just seems like too much livin' and not enough writin' has been happenin' around here. So this is my feeble attempt to start catching you up on all things MamaJo. And what better way than a glimpse of time well spent with our sweet Denay.....

Here's our wee Island Princess watching the hockey play-offs in her own private box.

(Did I tell you I have a bit of catching-up to do?!)

Check out her white towel wave!

I've personally never had the pleasure of being treated like a VIP....but apparently she is quite comfortable with her station in life and accepts the perks that come along with it.

Hope you are managing to enjoy a slice of summer these days....be blessed, my friends....and please feel free to let me know you are still out there. It is always good to hear from you!

All in the family

2010-03-27T11:42:00.000-07:00

Since we will be away for Easter, we had a gathering of the clan to celebrate Bob's birthday and Easter. We took a few moments before dinner to attempt some family pics...attempt being the obvious results.

I sometimes can't believe how our family keeps growing.....gotta love it, though!

I LOVE VANCOUVER!

2010-03-25T10:20:00.000-07:00

This post is late...but better late than never......

I can hardly begin to tell you what a thrill it was to have Vancouver host the Olympics. I was born at VGH and have lived in the Lower Mainland all of my life. My love for Vancouver has been magnified with every glimpse of my beloved city on the TV coverage.

We spent a few days downtown during the Olympics.....in my humble opinion, there are few places on earth more beautiful than Vancouver in the sunshine.

The air was electric with Olympic energy....the streets were crowded with happy people, families enjoying the sights and sounds, Canadian Patriots the likes of which I have never witnessed ever before.

I truly hope that the demonstration of Canadian pride will continue and grow within the hearts of all of us. I am so thankful to live a life of freedom in this "My home and native land", and I think that it's worth shouting about!

We met up with Jordan and Lindsey and Jordan took us thru the back way to see the Stanley Cup.....a thrill for every Hockey-lovin' Canadian!

Hope that spring has sprung all around you! Be blessed, my friends!