October

October began with a bang as we celebrated Aaron's birthday with a houseful of energetic young people.

 We had a college prof who used to say he loved working with young people because it kept him feeling young. I believe it!

Olivia and her friends taught us a new card game...Mantis. On our wish list now!

We love our neighbors and the big green open space we share behind our houses. An Arkansas Razorback football game gave us the excuse to tailgate and enjoy some food and fellowship.

And then it was time for Aaron to make a month-long trip back to the Solomon Islands to work with the Lavukal Translation Team.

Aaron  hadn't seen the team in person since Matthew died, so working together was a little bit bittersweet.

We swapped pictures almost daily since he was in Honiara with a connection to the internet. 

Katherine and I stopped on the way home from youth orchestra to get a treat at Loblolly Creamery, some of THE BEST ice cream I've ever tasted.

My hubby sent pictures of coaching the guys to use more technology.

Katherine and I visited Grandma.

Technology helped our family's time apart go a little bit more smoothly.

I was excited to have the opportunity to help judge All-Region Orchestra again.

We admired God's creation as delicate blue moths rested on the vibrant lantana for a snack.

Katherine continued chugging through school at home.  

Sometimes she worked in creative positions.

As the month closed, I dressed up as Wonder Woman at school for Halloween,

and Katherine and I handed out candy while visiting with our neighbors and watching the sun set.