Posted by Justin and Elizabeth West

A police officer was laid to rest today in our little town. He was killed in the line of duty, after having served for 24 years in the town where he spent his whole life. He met his wife here. They had 3 daughters, now in their teens, together here. He lived a block and a half away from where he was senselessly killed.

This community came out in an amazing fashion to honor one of their own. “The American Flag”, the one flown at the capitol on 9/11 and flown at Ground Zero during...

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Elizabeth Pasquale said:

“It sounds like its been a sobering time for your town and neighbors. There are always some good things that come from tragedy. Perhaps the town coming together, the joining in sorrow, the feeling like family will result in something positive. Perhaps it has already. I'm sure the family appreciated it.”

Posted by Justin and Elizabeth West

We just did something new that I think will become a yearly (if not more frequent) tradition - something to instill a sense of selflessness, generosity, and caring in our children – and to help prepare for the coming of Christmas, both in their hearts and in their physical space (AKA the toy room).

Here's what we did:

We started off by talking to our kids about how blessed we are to live in a safe and comfortable place. We talked a bit about those who live in poverty and need every day. We talked...

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Deborah Gorman said:

“So wonderful to hear that you are showing your children the joy of sharing with others. The Scripture says It is more blessed to give than to receive.”

Nancy Lister said:

“Great that you shared this new family tradition of parting with toys to help others. We all need to do that with the materials in our lives. Love, Nancy”

Lennie Rhys said:

“What an exemplary idea! I hope you don't mind if I borrow your story to share with young mothers in my Bible study class. Have a blessed Christmas!”

Posted by Justin and Elizabeth West

We have been enjoying our Thanksgiving weekend here at home. It has been great to have a break from everything for a few days, and to have our little first grader home. Her younger brothers have missed having her around the house and have been ecstatic to have an extra 3 full days with her this week. Justin and I have been able to sleep in the last 2 mornings because we haven't had to get anybody up for anything, and the kids have been entertaining themselves in their room in the morning. We've had lots of...

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Deborah Gorman said:

“Nice that you enjoy the traditional Thanksgiving spent with your family instead of the mall mania that is so prevalent today. Blessings on your advent as well.”

JoAnn Mansfield said:

“Your Thanksgiving tradition with your young family sounds idyllic. Although it may change slightly as the years go by and the children grow into their teen years - being together for this special holiday is most important. ”

Shannon Thigpen said:

“Sounds like a wonderful time. I remember having 3 small children in the house. It was so much fun. Thanks for sharing!”

Justin and Elizabeth West said:

“Thank you all!”

Posted by Justin and Elizabeth West

We've been busy. This beautiful season has been flying by. I am in utter disbelief that it is the middle of November and that Thanksgiving is literally one week away. So, here is a quick recap of some of the adventures we've had:

-Leaf Walks: We checked out all of the beauty around us that the season has to offer. We went on a nice, leisurely walks through nature, letting the kids meander at their own speed. We looked at the trees, picked leaves, found nuts, saw spiders,played with acorns, found trees...

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Betsy Rubner said:

“Your photographs have captured the beauty of the season. Its a magical time of year for kids. Sometimes we adults forget to stop and enjoy the pleasure of it. Thanks for the reminder.”

Posted by Justin and Elizabeth West

I need to just take a moment and reflect upon the beauty that is around me. It is the last week of October. The trees are beautiful. The wind is causing the leaves to dance around me. There is so much wonder this time of year! It presents a great opportunity for little ones to get out and enjoy nature.

My 6 year old has discovered the joy of building fairy houses this year. The plethera of sticks and leaves, along with acorns, walnuts, and other prizes from the trees make...

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