A trip to Arkansas

I was unable to attend the baptisms Brian told about because I had made a trip back to Arkansas. Wild horses could not have kept me away from my brother and sister-in-law - and their new baby girl, Cassidy Lynn. Cassidy came into this world a little bit earlier than was expected, but did so well. She was in the hospital for a week - and now she and Mom are doing great! We are all so blessed by this new little life. I'm going to try to post some pictures of my niece (and no, Aunt Christel doesn't get tired of saying that). I think you'll agree with me that Cassidy is adorable.


I miss my family, and I frequently thank God for the little things like phones and email. It's so easy to keep in touch with those you love now. If I want to hear someone's voice, all I have to do is give them a call. And when things come up, as they did the 1st of August, it doesn't take very long to get home when you can fly. 150 years ago if I had moved this far from my family, I think I can safely say that there is a good chance that we would not see each other again, this side of heaven. I say all this just to remind everyone to thank God for the little things. We remember to thank him for big things - our family, friends, church, etc... But how often do we thank him for the smaller things? Have you ever thanked God for a telephone or for the ability to so easily stay in touch with far away friends and family? He gives us everything - even the small stuff.


Now - I'm through preaching. Maybe I should leave that up to Brian. Ha! I hope this blog finds everyone that reads it doing well. To all our far away friends and family, we miss you and you're in our prayers. We love you!


Now for the pictures.... Meet Cassidy Lynn Blakley











This is Cassidy and her mom, Amy, who has also been such a sweet blessing in our family...