Poppy and Mimi's House

While we were in Texas, we spent time with Poppy and Mimi. They recently moved into a new house that backs up to Houston's bayou. Here are a few pictures which don't adequately capture their home's romance, size or beauty. We had a relaxing time, playing with toys, taking walks through the neighborhood and listening to the thunderstorms.

Packing the Stires

Kris, Chelle and the girls are moving to Albania in July to be missionaries. They will all be intensely learning the language for the first year or two, so most of their vocational duties will be put on hold until they get a firm grasp on the language. Kris will work at the seminary in Tiranah, while Chelle will manage the home and see the girls to and from school. To get to Albania, they had to sort, pack and load all of their belongings (with some other people's, too) into a container, which may arrive by cargo ship in 4 months. Until then, they'll be living out of their suitcases. It was a bittersweet visit for us all recalling delightful times while packing up remnants from those same visits. Of course we made new memories, which we are now documenting in order to enjoy over and over again.

Fun with Grammie

On our recent trip to Texas, we spent time with Grammie and the Stires. Grammie's signature is her "Surprise Suitcase", which she fills with prizes for good behavior, kind gestures and obedience. The kids LOVE reaching their hand in to grab a goody. Mason couldn't reach in to get a prize (although he was very obedient), so Grammie showered him with kisses and love. That's the best gift of all!