This weekend was a low-key, quiet one. Just what we needed after the whirlwind week and a half we've had.
Friday morning I attended Ashleigh's funeral service and friends, it was incredible. I realize that sounds odd given the situation, but Ashleigh's unabashed desire for everyone to know Christ and experience the hope that she had was evident in every aspect of the service. If you have a couple of hours this week you would be blessed by watching it HERE.
And if you don't have a couple of hours, take 5 minutes to watch the video below. Ashleigh gave this speech while attending MIT and when she references the bombing she's talking about the Boston Marathon bombing that she actually missed by minutes after crossing the finish line. Also, when you're watching, if you look in the reflection, the ONE face that's illuminated is that of her husband, Brad.
You can keep updated on Ashleigh's Gala and other ways to support her family on her blog HERE and I've opened up a second shirt campaign since so many of you have asked. Again, all the proceeds will go to the IBC Network Foundation as part of her wish to raise $100,000.
(The above video was created by Andrea and Bennett Lamb of Nostalgic Cache www.nostalgiccache.com)
Saturday morning started off with lots of bedhead and snuggles ;)
And then a whole bunch of raspberries!
Later in the morning Griffin and I headed to her friend Miley's house for a "Bubbles" second birthday party.
Griffin was a little unsure at first...
... but she and Miley had the best time :)
Look at that sweet birthday girl!!!
GG was a little bit excited ;) hahaha
And she was thrilled about the pink bubbles and beaded bubble wand she got as a party favor!
While G and I were partying with the Maxwells the boys and Dave were out on a scooter adventure. Too bad its ONE MILLION DEGREES here! ;)
Saturday night my mom joined the kids and I at the pool in at attempt to get out and beat the heat. Ice cream was for cooling purposes only :)
Shay and I have taught 3 year old Sunday School together for years and years. We started long before we have kids and we have the best time together. This year Mason has been in our class and while it's a challenge at times to have my own kid, there are moments where I get to be there and see things I would otherwise miss out on and I'm so thankful he's in our class.
Like yesterday when I got to see him be King Xerxes :)
And sweet Felicity was Queen Esther. They were the absolute sweetest!
After church I wanted to get a picture of the kids together, but it wasn't happening. The boys had already run inside and Dave snapped this picture of me and GG. She was upset that her brothers left her ;( #littlesisterproblems
Nothing a glass of OJ couldn't fix.
Luke went to play at Lincoln's house in the afternoon and Mason was LONELY while Luke was gone and GG was napping. When she woke up he changed his shorts to match his sister ;)
And then they had a dance party!
And let's just talk about the lovefest that went on between these two while waiting to watch an episode of Sofia the First!
Yesterday, Luke started Music Camp at church and then we met up with friends at the pool for a last hurrah before everyone heads off on end of the summer trips and I head back to work. This summer has been SO MUCH FUN and we're so grateful to spent it with "framily" :)
Back tomorrow with a yummy crockpot meal to share for Recipe Club! Get your recipes ready to share, girls!
Hi! Are you still doing blog design? I've emailed a few times but haven't heard back. I'd absolutely love for you to help me if you are still for hire😉
ReplyDeleteHey! I am! I self admittedly stink at email... but I'll look through my inbox tomorrow morning and get back to you! If you don't hear from my by tomorrow night shoot me another email :)
DeleteThanks so much! I look forward to hearing from you (and I completely understand!) Email is pretty much obsolete for me too, texting is the new email :) you can send me design info to lindy_brien@yahoo.com in case you don't get my email, but I did resend it yesterday!
DeleteWe had a blast at the pool with you McAnallys this summer!! It was a summer full of making memories!
ReplyDeleteYes ma'am!!! Dave and I were laughing that it won't be too long before both pools are fully staffed (snack bar, cart staff and lifeguards) by all of our kids :) #fcforever
DeleteI watched Ashleigh's funeral and it was phenomenal. When it was over, I felt so uplifted. She was an amazing person. I'm praying for her family as they navigate through this time.
ReplyDeleteUplifted is the perfect word. Love you, girly!
DeleteAw! What a fun weekend!! Also, that video--I must have watched in 10 times!! So sweet watching them jump off that board. Love you, girl!! :)
ReplyDeleteMe too!!! I love getting to experience summer through our sweet little people :) Love you too!
DeleteAwwww! M and G love each other! It might have taken a bit, but he seems to have fallen hard!!!!! :)
ReplyDeleteThey have their moments :)
DeleteThe video is pure perfection! I'm so glad you shared it with us! Perfecting pairing of happy kiddos with a great song!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Holly! I thought it was the perfect, fun, summer song :)
DeleteAshleigh's story... I don't think I've ever been impacted as much as I have been by someone I don't even know. It really makes me see tangibly how much God is in control. I am a Christian but I am the first to admit that I have doubts and faithlessness at times... but her life has no doubt inspired me (and so many others) to really see God at work.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for your comment - I feel the same way you do about her impact. I'm so glad that her story has inspired you.
DeleteSo fun! I love seeing your kids bond - mine are 2 years apart and for the "most" part really get along and love each other!
ReplyDeleteThey're getting there :) They definitely have their sweet moments.... most often followed by the sour!
DeleteGriffins hair looks so cute up!
ReplyDeleteThanks! I love it, but hate how old it makes her look :) hahaha
Deletehaha, love the little ending video. Love the sibling bond, my kids are the same way and it melt my heart every single time. Ashleigh seemed like a tremendous person who shared her love with everyone. Many prayers to her family during this time.
ReplyDeleteThanks, girl!
DeleteHI Andrea! Thanks for posting that video of Ashleigh, it was such a great reminder of our lack of control that we feel we have. I am heading back to work after being home with my babies for six years and I've read how much you love your Miss Lisa. Can I ask how you found her? Finding quality childcare seems so hard!! Thanks!
ReplyDeleteSure! I actually found her through the recommendation of friends. I had a couple of friends who recommended a few different people they used and after visiting all of them Miss Lisa was the perfect fit for our family. I'd highly recommend getting referrals and suggestions from local friends if possible.
DeleteCute pictures! I love that leopard print rug! Could you tell me where you purchased it? Thanks!
ReplyDeleteHey! It's actually a bound carpet remnant from a high end flooring store. Sorry that's not much help!
DeleteHi there!
ReplyDeleteSaw Lindys comment above....same for me, needing a few things updated on original design you did. Can you please check for my email too!! Thanks!
Ashleigh's talk.... Wow, how incredible she had such a strong faith before she got sick. And what a blessing for her family and loved ones to go back and watch.
ReplyDelete