Three generations

I am happy to say I am writing from my parent's home in beautiful WA state...I flew in late Saturday night for a week of R&R (MUCH needed after graduation) and also to be present at my littlest sister and godchild's confirmation this coming Sunday - so happy for you, Elizabeth! So far I have comfortably nestled back into my former place as eldest child and sister, and have been blissfully enjoying sibling interaction (especially sleeping in a bedroom with my beautiful ex-roomie Catherine), secrets and laughter shared in sisterly confidence, parental advice/conversations, ect. :) The weather and scenery as well, is providing solace for my weary mind and soul...the abundant very-green foliage, variety of trees, aroma of evergreen mixed with rain, mountains in the distance, and the many misting waterfalls which cascade into the Columbia River...my favorite combinations of topography! (Due to continuous showers we have not yet been able to do any hiking - hopefully towards the end of this week.) Everything upon which my gaze falls, be it in or outside the house, provides me with a reason to give thanks to the Creator, and once again, be awestruck at His goodness to me. Of course, I am missing hubby VERY much; we all wish you could be here with us, hubby, and the children are very much looking forward to your visit in July. (Last night, Dad provided me with a large stuffed puppy to cuddle with in lieu of my absent husband, so I'm all set, right?) :P~ Too funny.

Mom and I finally remembered to print out one of my wedding pictures, and I'm proud to announce that the Steele's have finally made it to the "Hall of Fame" (aka. the Stone Family's stairwell picture gallery). While checking out Mom's display, I was inspired by the wedding photos of my elder generations - both of my grandparents and parents have been such wonderful witnesses to the marital and parental vocations - and so I want to honor them for their commitment to each other, their children, and their grandchildren...we have learned and continue to learn so much about service, love, and family life from you all, and your examples will never been forgotten. Thank you. <3


Paternal grandparents, Lee & Stephanie Stone ~ February 20, 1953

Maternal grandparents, Donald & Caroline Holst ~ December 5, 1953

My parents, Charles & Linda Stone ~ November 20, 1982

And the 2 married daughters!

Time with Mary-pie!

Andrew and I concluded a great week of celebrating our graduation with a special day with Mary! Mary is the only Stone child who has never been to a Disney park, and she has been wanting to go for a LONG time. Andrew and I had some days left on previously purchased D passes, and so we were more than happy to take her. Friday was spent running from park to park, getting Mary on the important rides. Below are a few pictures...we love you Mary and you are more than welcome to our FL abode anytime!

Family Fun...

Thought I'd share a few pictures (well, maybe more than a few!) from the rest of our week with Mom, Mary, and Laura's little clan! We spent a few days at the beach and one day at the Edison & Ford Estates in Ft. Myers, where we met Uncle Bruce. Lots of fun and sun were had by all!

We are some very blessed children...

...for we have such a wonderful mother! Happy Mother's Day, Mom! Thank you for your amazing example of how to live the vocation of motherhood! Your never-ending joyful service, love, prayers, and support propels us forward on our individual paths to heaven.




A MOTHER IS
By: Lorena Evans

A Mother is always there
when you need a helping hand;
To love you and to guide you,
to forgive and understand.

A Mother is always there
with her arms open wide,
when you need somewhere to go,
or a safe place to hide.

A Mother's love is unconditinal,
in the strongest storm it does not bend;
It's powers are unmatched,
the deepest wounds it can mend.

She is the one true keeper
of truth, strength, and love.
A Mother is a gift
from Heaven up above.

Graduation!

Graduation day was a joy. Beautiful weather. Fun in gowns and tassels. Uplifting commencement speeches. Hard-earned diplomas received. Family and loving, encouraging friends surrounded. Heartfelt congratulations and hugs. A small, happy party afterward. Grateful hearts.

Throughout the events of the day, this Scripture verse kept resounding through my heart:

"For I know well the plans I have in mind for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare, not for woe! Plans to give you a future full of hope." Jeremiah 29:11

He sure does! We have no greater responsibility than to trust Him with our lives, for His timing is amazingly perfect. This knowledge allows me to cast myself with such a carefree, joyful sense of abandon into His arms as we move ahead to the next chapter of our lives. Andrew is continuing on to 2 years of graduate work for Theology, and I go back full-swing into the work field, which I am more than content to do, and grateful for!...more on that later, as previously promised. :)

(Andrew was asked a few questions before the commencement by a reporter. See here.)


A big thank you to Mom, my first educator!




A delicious feast...thank you Mom, Laura, & Gabe!

Thanks to Rose T. for the beautiful and delicious cake!

The 3 seniors present at our party cut the cake ;)

Done!

As of Wednesday night, both Andrew and I were done with the labor of our undergraduate years! It still hasn't quite sunk in yet, but I'm sure by this evening, when we don our robes and caps for the Baccalaureate Mass, it will seem more real. Mom, Mary, Laura and family arrived yesterday, and it is so fun to have the house filled with the sound of little feet, giggles, and play. We are missing those beloved family members who can't be here with us, and we thank you for your love, encouragement, and prayers.

It is a lovely time. No more pressure from papers or finals, family is here, summer plans are being concocted, changes to our lives are on the horizon...more on that later. For now, graduation, party, friends, the beach, and nephews will comprise most of this weekend - ahhh...

A brief interlude - sun, waves, and smilies

This afternoon Hubby and I were very happy to take a little break from studies with our favorite professor, his wonderful family, and Christa! :) It was great for me (as always!) to have girl-time with these ladies, enjoy little Lily's cute expressions and smiles, and the beach! The water felt great! We finished our evening at an Italian restaurant for pizza and cocktails then went to Cold Stone for dessert. What a lovely afternoon and evening!



What a cutie pie!

Hubby and I look tired...it's been a loooong week! But good job, Hubby; your thesis is over and done with!