I was shocked to see that it's been over a YEAR since we've posted anything on our blog. So sorry! We'll do better, we promise. It's amazing how much Mae and Wes have grown in a year.

We are currently in Colorado for five weeks to train for our new job in North Africa. Here are some photos! I like to tell people our time here has been intense and beautiful... just like the mountains.

The Family Photo- Attempt #1

We need a photo for our prayer cards. None of these made the cut... but they did make us smile.

Our Favorites

Here are some of our favorite pics of the kiddos from this Spring.

Fun in the Sun

We got out the Turtle Pool, added a little bit of water and a couple of Cool Whip containers. You can see the result.

Mae's #4

Today we celebrated Princess Mae's 4th birthday with family and friends (and dragons). It was quite the fairytale with a castle for a cake (thanks Shimko's) and a dragon egg hunt. Anyone up for pin the tail on the dragon? Make a wish Mae!

Mickey and Friends...

We've just returned from sunny Florida and Disney World! It was a great trip (with the exception of some colds and sore throats). We really enjoyed our time with Nana Shirley and Papa Tim...and with Levi, Gabby, Tyler, Jacob, Kyle, CJ, and Todd. Thanks for a great time everyone.

Christmas @ North Beatty Street

Wesley Owen...#12

Mae Leigh...future Paleontologist??

After a wonderful Christmas Eve Service with Valley View Presbyterian Church, Fourth Presbyterian Church, and the Open Door...the Shrader family was very tired and ready for a night where not a creature was stirring, not even a Rat!

The kids awoke around seven--a Christmas gift in itself. We then opened gifts. Mae enjoyed giving the gifts as much as she enjoyed receiving them. It was a wonderful Christmas and we are blessed with such love. Truly, in Christ all the hopes and fears are met.

After this we traveled north to Warren, PA. (Pics forthcoming)

Christmas with Nana

It was a special treat to celebrate Christmas with Nana Shrader (Mara, too!) We all laughed and giggled by the fire and with the birds. Try this site to hear and see that famous laugh.

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=4587956563962081837