At the beginning of August, we made a decision on very short notice that if we could find someplace for Eden to spend a night or two we would make a last minute venture to Branson. The Lord provided by allowing Eden to stay with some sweet friends of our from church who also happen to be foster parents and without any current kiddos besides their own. So, we quickly made the necessary arrangements, packed the car, and took off. We spent one day at White Water and the next at Silver Dollar City. This was a first for both Anna and Marie and neither had any complaints (other then maybe one ride). From swimming to riding rides to getting to stay a night at a hotel, the fun was endless. We were also blessed when our friends asked to keep Eden for an extra night, thus allowing us to unpack, catch up on laundry and prepare for our yearly re-evaluation. What amazing friends!
As I mentioned above, we had our yearly re-evaluation for foster parenting. We managed to pass the inspection even though the house was not completely unpacked and filed all the necessary paperwork in order to continue on for another year. We recently received the "official notice" that we will remain open for another year!
While the temperatures stayed high, we remained cool. Thanks to Jeff and his handy-man abilities, we have a new a/c unit in the addition of our house. He spent many hours putting it together and preparing the unit so all the a/c guy had to do was hook it up and turn it on! It is a beautiful thing to be able to come in from 100 degree temps and actually get cold sitting on the couch!
The next week we got to go to Russellville and celebrate Isaiah's birthday and visit with family and friends. Then Nana and Papa came to our house and we laughed ourselves silly playing cards and telling stories.
We then celebrated with friends over the completion of Jeff's master's degree in Education. He has spent many hours the last two years working towards this goal and we are so thankful that he completed it and did it with a perfect 4.0 gpa! We are so thankful that for the most part the Lord protected his health as he worked a full-time job teaching, a part-time job teaching, and worked on his master's all while being an awesome Dad to 5 kids and an amazing husband! God is so good!
August means the beginning of a new school year. Jeff started his 6th year teaching. Eli started 3rd grade. Thad started 1st grade. I cannot believe how much the boys have grown and changed since this time last year. Sorry for all the start of the year school pics but I couldn't choose!
The boys also started their After School Kids Bible Study. They are studying the life of Joseph this semester. They were so excited after their first class that it does this mama's heart good to see her boys excited to learn more about God's Word!
Once again, the boys competed in the Kids Triathlon held locally. Thad did great this year, especially on his bike WITHOUT training wheels. Eli also did well. I am so proud of them for pushing themselves to do hard things!
The month ended with us hosting our small group. With the blessing of a larger house, we in turn are able to bless others. It is an amazing thing to be able to seat 33 people for a meal! Thank you Lord for the provision of this house and some new furniture to put in it.
September begins another crazy season of soccer so stay tuned next month for more exciting happenings in the life of the Rices!
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| Free digital slideshow made with Smilebox |
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