Day 1–Munich, Germany

Day one of our recent trip to Germany and Austria found us arriving and spending just one evening and a morning in Munich.  We had been to Munich years ago for one evening in December and just a few hours on the way home from a  mission trip in Steyr, Austria.  So this was our chance to wander around the Zentrum (center)of the city.

Hofbrauhaus was literally steps from our hotel (Platzl Hotel) so we stopped by to check it out.  The beer was served in huge glasses, lively music was playing and everyone seemed to be having a great time.

Marienplatz is dominated by the Rathaus (city government building) and its famous Glockenspiel which play a couple of times per day.

Spires and beautiful buildings all around.

Musicians playing in the square.

I love doors and Steve is accustomed to me stopping by beautiful doors to take photos.

Wednesday morning before we left for Bavaria we went to Marienplatz to go up in the bell tower of Saint Peter Church.

The steps up to the bell tower were old, steep and numerous.

But the view from the top was glorious and worth every step.

Happy 8th Birthday Ty!

You have brought great joy to our family.  I love to witness your intensity when you play sports or anything else you do. 

Always remember that Jesus is your greatest prize and keep your eyes on Him.  Have a very happy birthday.  We love you Ty!

Greek Play

While we were in Austin for Kylie’s birthday, we were able to attend her school play.  The 5th grade does a series of Greek plays as they study a unit about ancient Greece.  Kylie was one of the leads in her play and did a great job as did all the students.  She moves on to middle school next year so all these end of year activities hold so much meaning for her.

All I know is that I could never memorize all the lines that she had.  Good job Kylie.  I hope middle school is just as wonderful as Highland Park Elementary.

Kylie at 11 years

I took some photos of Kylie on her 11th birthday and just wanted to share.  She is a beautiful girl inside and out.

Papa and I are enjoying you so much as you grow into a young lady.  We pray you continue to trust in God and look to Him for wisdom.

Kylie’s 11th Birthday

We were so glad to be able to be with Kylie on her birthday.  We were late coming into Austin so we joined them for cupcakes at their house.

Kylie tried on some of her new clothes from Steve and I…..what a cutie in her new hat and sweater.

Mother’s Day

I had a beautiful Mother’s Day!  The girls got me a gift certificate to get a Brazilian Blowout – Wow!  And Steve got me a much needed tripod for my camera. I can’t wait to try it with a group photo.  The Hodge family men planned a dinner at Martha’s Bloomers Tea Room and included us as well.

Beautiful mother of three boys, Heather.

Heather and her three sons.

Mother and daughter….we even matched.

Nathan, Ty and Austin.

We had a leisurely lunch.  We all enjoyed the fellowship and gave thanks for all the mothers represented.  I really missed my mother but know that she is in the hands of the Father.

James at 7 months

While Steve was out-of-town again…., I went to Houston to join Melissa and James as he had a  professional photoshoot.  It was so fun to help even though I ended up with numerous chigger bites!  As soon as Melissa chooses her photos, I will post some from the shoot.  Following are just some snapshots I took of James while he was playing.

He is crawling everywhere and is oh-so-close to walking around the furniture.  He loves to stand and play at his play table, throw the ball and chase after it, and pull open drawers.  Nanie will be back to take care of you while your mom and dad celebrate their anniversary.

Christ-Like Award

Nathan is in his last month of Upward soccer.  He has improved and really enjoys playing.  Each week they players get an award for their play, attitude, sportsmanship etc.  This week Nathan got the most important award, the Christ-like award.

Nathan, we are so proud of your sportsmanship and sensitivity to the other players.  Keep up the good work!  We look forward to watching you again next week.