Good times--Days 112-113

We went toDeanna and Zach's for a Labor Day party on Saturday. We ate first and the food was excellent. Some "complained" the brisket (sic?) was a little too spicy, but it was really good. We talked for a bit and then Jerry asked if wanted to play some bocci ball. Deanna, Zack and I were up for it and, after a bit of playing, the strategy became apparent and it turned into a fun game. We played some basketball for a bit, and while we did, the kids jumped in the pool. There was no stopping Noah, so I borrowed some swim trunks, and took a dive with him. It was cold until you got used to it and we probably played for a half hour or so. We played basketball again, watched the rest of the Michigan game and soon we were starting the bon fire. We roasted some hot dogs, made some s'mores and talked quite a bit. We were probably around that fire about 3 or 4 hours talking about everything from old times, Deanna's prowess at throwing her sandals to the upcoming election for president (Obama in '08!). They always throw great get togethers and I hope we get together more often.

We got home around 1:00, so we were all a little tired getting up for church in the morning. I'm glad we went. For one, it was Pastor Bob's last time doing the children's sermon (*sob*). Two, The Maddock's Were Back!! I really enjoy listening to Traci sing (see day 60). When she starts out singing "Your name" by herself before the each of us start singing along, I really think all eyes in the congregation are on her. She has been blessed with a beautiful voice. Jerry has been blessed with a wonderful disposition. He is such a friendly person. When I was at the class I needed to go to to become a member of the church, he mentioned something about my Prayer Vigil Experience and how if someone would've told me what I would go through that night, I would've had a hard time believing them. As I've said about Fran, I can tell they really "get" what happened that night. To know that they share that and are so much more mature in their walk with God is wonderful and inspirational. Angela Maddock is just a breath of fresh air. I love the look of long hair on women (especially Kim), but her very short hair is a very good look for her. There is very little to detract from the joy I see on her face. She gave Kim and I some words of wisdom as far as evangalizing at that same meeting. The kindness of that family will always stick with me where ever I end up.

Pastor Don's last two sermons have partly been used to motivate us to volunteer as much as we can in the church. I volunteered for a couple more things as did Kim. After church we headed out to get some groceries and headed to my parents for some lunch. We brought all the food and the cake. We didn't really celebrate Noah's birthday, but we enjoyed each other's company for most of the afternoon. I think they really enjoy having another baby grandbaby to spoil. It's kind of nice that he's the only little one left on my side of the family. It contrasts to Kim's family and makes the experience with my family just as special. Last time I had talked with them, they sounded as if they were voting for Hillary Clinton and didn't seem to like Obama, but they are very strongly on his side as well. We enjoyed our lunch, a movie, and some nice conversation.

We had to do some more shopping for the kids before going home again. Kim went to the store while the rest of stayed home. We played for a bit before going to the chocolate milk store. On the way home, I asked if they wanted to have a fire tonight. They did and soon we had one going. Noah had some juice, a couple marshmallows, a smore, and a piece of chocolate. Probably a little much for the little man as it really started to get dark, he was sitting on the patio chair with a glazed over look in his eyes. He woke up as soon as I picked him up, but fell asleep as soon as I cleaned him up and put him to bed. Before bed, the kids wanted to watch Elf, so we did. Colton had to rewind it 4 or 5 times at the part where Buddy the Elf (Will Ferrell) yells "SANTA!! OH MY GOSH!!". Will's over-the-topness makes him hysterically funny for Colton sometimes.

Overall, we've had a great weekend so far. I'm sure I'll enjoy tomorrow as well. Thank you, Jesus.