One of the things I love doing as a family is an "Unplanned Family Outing." 

On Saturday night we called some friends we hadn't seen for "1000 years" and asked if we could pitch a tent in the middle of the night on their lawn so we could try and catch the Perseid Meteor shower.  They live in central Illinois and we thought if we got away from the city lights that we could see the showers.  After they remembered who we were, they said sure.

The Careys (minus three), 2007

Unfortunately, once we got there it was overcast and we couldn't see any objects in the sky except for clouds.  So, we were graciously invited in to sleep in the airconditioned accomodations of thier home.  It is such a delight to catch up with good friends.

After breakfast, they took us over to their horse barn and gave the kids some horse-care and riding instruction.  The kids had a blast!  [Though, I have to try and convince Aelsa again that there is no way we can have a horse in our back yard!]  Sarah (pictured below)  was so patient with the boys and Star, a highly awarded horse, was great with Aelsa.

Brushing Sarah, 2007

Headed to Pasture, 2007
 

The rest of the afternoon was full of trampoline horse-play for the kids, while Pamela made jewelry with the ladies and I went with Mr. Carey to paint a bathroom.

We are so grateful for the testimony of faithfulness of these dear saints, and am so thankful for thier hosting of our latest UFO.  They are greatly loved.

From Romans 15

For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.

May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, 6so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.