I'm still here!

My my my...I debate whether to do a post or not...how long can a blog still "go" with no posts? Haha, its been over a year and a half since I said goodbye on this blog, and since then I only posted twice. So I guess I better keep up with my "every-half-year-blog-post" theme and let you know I am still alive and well! :) I hardly know what to write...actually I DON'T know what to write, so I guess I'll just see where my fingers fall on the keys! 

Life continues to be very busy and speed along at a sometimes alarming rate...like how in the world are we in August already?!?!

 But as I always say and what ALWAYS stays true, is this - God is GOOD and HIS plan is best and life is ALWAYS full of purpose if we are following Him. Now that doesn't mean that life is always dandy and hard things don't come! Cause they do. BUT He allows those hard times to refine and mold us into who He wants us to be. 

I continue to strive to follow Him and listen to what He has for me....and to do those things that matter for eternity! and I am preaching to myself when I say "Tune into Him! Pray! Worship! Love those around you!" and a lot will be accomplished. 

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                                               Now to a bit of an update on my life!

-I am working as a Secretary at my Grandpa's business and in my off time, helping Mom around home, mowing for my Dad, and trying to keep my life somewhat organized (the struggle is real!)

-Enjoying lots of family time...we've had some very happy times (like a cousins wedding and many birthday parties and evenings spent together)...but we've also had some very hard times! My Grandpa's health steadily declined this past year, and the beginning of July he left this earth for the most glorious place ever - heaven! Grandpa was an outstanding man and blessed so many people. I have lots and lots of fond memories and blessings from him that continue to this day! Please pray for my dear Grandma as she goes through these sad times.

-With summer time brings so many oportunities to be with friends...we've had many events and good times (so thankful to be together after quarantine loneliness ;) and last week was spent on our youths work trip down in MD cleaning up at a camp. it was a great week! 

-Lots of projects are happening around our house this summer as well...we are currently redoing most of our homes main level...new kitchen! Also growing a field of produce this year (lots of work!).  Annndd...its been a HOT July and August, so the pool has been givings us many a welcome break! :)

                             ....and now...enjoy these glimpses of my life!  💛💛

Back in June our family spent a few days in Florida, enjoying the sunshine, beach, togetherness, and relaxation! 

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In July we spent a few days at a cabin on the lake with my Mom's family. It was a blast! 

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First wedding on the Sauder side - a joyous occasion! 

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picnics and photos in the meadow with long time friends! 

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Rides on the tandem with Lindsey :) 

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Cousin Haley and I on work week at a beautiful state park! 

Hikes with these girls! 

love all these girls so much! we worked hard and played hard on our trip! 

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Beach trip and shopping! 

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Happy days with cousin Clara! 

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sweet times with Grandpa in Florida last year....😭💛

this picture is worth so much to us...the back story to this: the evening after Grandpa's funeral we wanted to take some flowers to his grave. our family was there, feeling rather emotional after the long and sad day. As Aubree was laying her flowers down, dad pulled out his phone to snap a picture. When he went to take the photo he could hardly believe this sight....the sun was shining right on Grandpa, showing us that Jesus ALWAYS cares and is there with us. Such a sweet moment! 

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Well... I believe that's all for now. Thanks for reading and see you again sometime (hopefully:))!!

                                                                                  

                   "You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the ONE who

                                  is in your, is greater than the one who is in the world." 1 John 4:4