Big Smiles!

First Day of School 2012

Introducing Joseph Chadwick Shanks 7lbs. 3oz.

Beginning of Summer

Noah's Preschool Graduation

It's been awhile I know! I put most everything on Facebook these days but need to keep this blog up for my own sake. I know that when my kids are grown and leave our home I will have this blog to look back on and remember all of our fun times together.

Another reason I am blogging again is because we are having another baby! I am over the moon about God blessing us with a third child. This baby is part of God's amazing plan for our lives and I cannot wait to meet him or her. On that note, let me tell you that we have no idea what we are having. We had the opportunity to find out on Monday but want this one to be a surprise. Chad wasn't able to go with me because Cam and Noah both have the flu and he had to stay home with them. He was so afraid that I would find out and cheat but I did good. I really have no desire to know because I think the surprise of it all will be so sweet.

Well I am not sure if there is anyone out there still reading but even if there is not I am creating a great journal to look back on years from now.

Gotta love Cameryn and her sense of humor!
Noah with a saw...enough said

Watching Daddy cut down the tree

On our way to cut down our tree

Merry Christmas!

They're Here!

Braxton (5 lbs) and Beckham (5 lbs 9 oz)

Aunt Manny holding Braxton

Aunt Manny holding Beckham

Aunt Stacie & Kellie holding the cutest babies ever!

Beckham with his sweet little eyes open

Jesus Calling...

Last year one of my students bought me a daily devotional book. I was touched by such a sweet gesture but honestly didn't open the book until this fall. I had no idea what I was missing out on. The book is titled Jesus Calling and it is written by Sarah Young. She has a way of putting things into perspective and making you stop and think everyday. These daily devotions have been such a blessing and an encouragement that I wanted to share with you. If you need something that helps you stay in the presence of Jesus, this book is it. Here is a piece of what today's devotion said:

Do not expect to be treated fairly in this life. People will say and do harmful things to you, things that you don't deserve. When someone mistreats you, try to view it as an opportunity to grow in grace. See how quickly you can forgive the one who has wounded you. Don't be concerned about setting the record straight. Instead of obsessing about other people's opinions of you, keep your focus on Me. Ultimately, it is My view of you that counts.

Kellie at her baby shower--around 7 months prego

Noah in his favorite new hat

Cameryn on "Twin Day" at school

Noah and Cam before the Homecoming Parade

My strong willed child is becoming quite the young lady- What a blessing she is!

My little Farmer Boy has been spending a lot of time with his Grandpa Gary lately. His one true passion in life right now is farming...today he hauled two loads of corn to the city and went to Trenton with his Papa.

Over the weekend Chad and I got to have a night out. Chad's friends from High School all got together down at Power and Light. We had a fun night together and we enjoyed catching up with friends!

Chad taught Cam how to drive the BIG mower

Noah after a long day farming with Papa Gary

Cameryn and Clayton on their four wheelers headed to Uncle Todd's pond with Uncle Matt following them in the golf cart.