Well, August is almost gone. We've been very busy getting ready for Troy's fourth year at Veritas to start, and enjoying time with friends and family. We spent a long weekend in San Antonio. The day after we got back, some family from Spokane came to visit (my mom's brother and family). We packed as much fun as possible into four days! Other than our dog trying to eat theirs, and the 107 degree weather, it was just about perfect!
Here are some pics:
Greta climbed in our suitcase in San Antonio...sadly, this is the only pic. I took the whole time.
Back in Austin...
Everyone enjoying one of our favorite Burger joints: PTerry's
The bats flying out from under the congress street bridge. Austin has the largest urban bat colony in the world...over 1 million bats live under this bridge!
My cousins, Seth and Hannah, on the Congress St. Bridge
Their dog, Lucy.
Troy, Jude, Seth, and my Uncle Paul
Did I mention it's 107 degrees?
This is an older pic of Greta and me. I think maybe mid-July...
This is another older one...Greta now takes a few steps, but this was what she did for a LONG time.
Other news...(don't get too excited). We just started school, well technically, Troy is the only one who started school...but we all feel very invested. The start of the year is always crazy. Like I said, Greta has started taking a few steps. She doesn't really fall into the "walker" category yet, but she'll take about 10 steps between two people. Her first birthday is coming up on Sept. 10th. I can't believe she's already almost 1. Jude is 3 1/2, and currently most passionate about Monster Trucks.
We got a bout 2 minutes of rain yesterday...it felt like heaven. Then it stopped. Bummer. The drought is pretty bad here. I am so thankful we have food sources, etc. that don't depend on this immediate area. I often think about the pain of those who really suffer from drought, where they actually pray for rain just to keep them alive. I don't fully understand, but even here, people are starting to be a little fearful. It makes me pray often for rain, and for others who need it.
I guess the other thing in our life this summer is that we've been really praying for a few particular people and families of those who have been impacted by cancer. One family member, one old friend (who actually just passed away, so we're praying for his family...we're so thankful he's in heaven with the Savior who he dearly loved), and others we know more distantly. But it seems to be a theme, that God is reminding us that this life is unpredictable, and even sometimes cut short. We trust in His goodness and His timing. We are sobered by the heaviness we feel for those who are suffering, and praying above all that God would show his love and grace to them in very tangible ways...and that they would know His love more deeply. Though His plans aren't always easy, we know He loves, comforts, and walks through darkness with the needy. He can give peace that surpasses comprehension, even in the lowest valleys. I encourage you to pray for those you love who need His comfort most right now.
We love you all!
The Schuknechts
