The Package has Arrived

Today we received a package from Operation Christmas Child. In the box were 6 pens, 3 red shirts, 2 mugs, and a sweatshirt. We were sent them because our family won their shoetube video competition. If you want to see the video you can look at our previous post.

Shoebockes Do Not Pack Themselves

This is Christian's video that was one of the winners for creativity!
http://www.occshoetube.com/

The Cross of Ethiopia

As we posted earlier, our friends, the Schmidts, just adopted a baby boy from Ethiopia named Benaiah. While in Ethiopia, they bought us this beautiful metal cross.


But getting it here was a small task; while putting their luggage through the airport security machine, the machine detected metal. The security worker then proceeded to check the bag. Then they explained that they bought the crosses in Ethiopia, and was taking them home for gifts. So the security worker let them through.

We would like to say thank you to the Schmidts.

Braces...

When Carl went to the Orthodontist for his occasional check-up, he did not think that he would get his braces. But it happened.

Just a few hours before the appointment, we were asked to come early to talk about finances. Right away, we knew what would happen.

Once we arrived, we were called on quickly. Carl got pictures and x-rays, before getting his bands placed, and, eventually, his wires and brackets. This took a couple of hours.

Back at home, Carl took pain relievers. Fortunetely, Carl did not get very sour until the next day, but he ate a diet of mac 'n' cheese and yogurt anyways.

Now, he is three months into a two year phase.

Welcoming the Schmidts

Today, we had the honor of welcoming our good friends, the Schmidts, who were coming back from adopting Baby Benaiah (Meteku) from Ethiopia. It was a very emotional day for everyone.

Most of the Schmidt family (including aunts, cousins, grandparents, ect) were there to see them for the first time in more than a week, and to welcome a new baby brother.

Benaiah was very tired and not used to the change of time zones.

Follow this link to go to their blog post

Here are a few photos:

Fun at the State Fair

After a quick breakfast, we were on our way on Tuesday to have fun at the North Carolina State Fair.

We had a lot of fun. With all the rides, displays, and the FOOD. :P

Here is what we ate (yum!):

Giant Turkey legs (Carl, Bethany, and Dan)

Sausage Sandwiches (everyone else)

Onion Rings

Fried Candy Bars (Milky Way, Snickers)

Fried Pecan Pie

Kettle Corn

Corn Dogs

French Fries

Funnel Cake

We stayed the longest that we have ever stayed this year.