The Sisters 4

Photoshoot!!!!!!

2012-01-16T21:28:00.007-07:00

Yay!!! I finally got to use a workable camera, and the Sisters 4 went outside with the puppy and did a photo shoot! That's the first time in a loooong time... :) Here are some of the highlights:

Ha ha... we have WAY too much fun...

Run, puppy, run! or, rather: Run, owner, run!

There are so many reasons to laugh...

Puppy love... ;)

...Both soooo cute...

Licking Fest!!!!

Ninja!!!

Scottish dancing...

...or martial arts?

Fun Friends

JUMP!!!

A brief ode to braids...

Piggyback rides 4 free...

There's somethin' to be said for sisters!

And, The END! That was our photo shoot, and we had a blast doing it too. Some of the pictures were blurry, of course, but... oh well!

Bye!

~Margaret

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T06:59:00.002-07:00

Well, that time of year has finally rolled around... HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!! :) And now, a brief ode to mashed potatoes, turkey, pumpkin pie, Thanksgiving races (I'm doing it this year, unlike a few years ago.), stuffing, after-dinner walks, and Black Friday (wait... I'm kidding about the Black Friday. That has nothing to do with Thanksgiving...). But, over all those things I just mentioned, I am so thankful to God for EVERY THING He gives us. We read Psalm 104 last night, and it was so encouraging and uplifting! I can't really resist, so here it is. I'll let you guys read it too, because it's such a fabulous Psalm. :) Here it is:

Bless the LORD, O my soul. O LORD my God, thou art very great; thou art clothed with honour and majesty.

Who coverest thyself with light as with a garment: who stretchest out the heavens like a curtain:

Who layeth the beams of his chambers in the waters: who maketh the clouds his chariot: who walketh upon the wings of the wind:

Who maketh his angels spirits; his ministers a flaming fire:

Who laid the foundations of the earth, that it should not be removed for ever.

Thou coveredst it with the deep as with a garment: the waters stood above the mountains.

At thy rebuke they fled; at the voice of thy thunder they hasted away.

They go up by the mountains; they go down by the valleys unto the place which thou hast founded for them.

Thou hast set a bound that they may not pass over; that they turn not again to cover the earth.

He sendeth the springs into the valleys, which run among the hills.

They give drink to every beast of the field: the wild asses quench their thirst.

By them shall the fowls of the heaven have their habitation, which sing among the branches.

He watereth the hills from his chambers: the earth is satisfied with the fruit of thy works.

He causeth the grass to grow for the cattle, and herb for the service of man: that he may bring forth food out of the earth;

And wine that maketh glad the heart of man, and oil to make his face to shine, and bread which strengtheneth man's heart.

The trees of the LORD are full of sap; the cedars of Lebanon, which he hath planted;

Where the birds make their nests: as for the stork, the fir trees are her house.

The high hills are a refuge for the wild goats; and the rocks for the conies.

He appointed the moon for seasons: the sun knoweth his going down.

Thou makest darkness, and it is night: wherein all the beasts of the forest do creep forth.

The young lions roar after their prey, and seek their meat from God.

The sun ariseth, they gather themselves together, and lay them down in their dens.

Man goeth forth unto his work and to his labour until the evening.

O LORD, how manifold are thy works! in wisdom hast thou made them all: the earth is full of thy riches.

So is this great and wide sea, wherein are things creeping innumerable, both small and great beasts.

There go the ships: there is that leviathan, whom thou hast made to play therein.

These wait all upon thee; that thou mayest give them their meat in due season.

That thou givest them they gather: thou openest thine hand, they are filled with good.

Thou hidest thy face, they are troubled: thou takest away their breath, they die, and return to their dust.

Thou sendest forth thy spirit, they are created: and thou renewest the face of the earth.

The glory of the LORD shall endure for ever: the LORD shall rejoice in his works.

He looketh on the earth, and it trembleth: he toucheth the hills, and they smoke.

I will sing unto the LORD as long as I live: I will sing praise to my God while I have my being.

My meditation of him shall be sweet: I will be glad in the LORD.

Let the sinners be consumed out of the earth, and let the wicked be no more. Bless thou the LORD, O my soul. Praise ye the LORD.

-That Psalm makes me want to go out in the woods right now, and take a walk in God's glorious creation that we are so incredibly blessed with. Okay, to stick to a tradition, I will now state what I'm thankful for:

-God

-My family (things are just starting to get fun with every one getting older)

-Beautiful mountains

-Elk tags

-My puppy

-Seasons

-All the "little" things

-Life in general

-There's so many things, I can't mention them all right now, but, you can check out my Thanksgiving Post that I did a couple years ago. Have a great Thanksgiving!

Count the blessings, not the calories,

Margaret

2011-11-03T17:33:00.002-06:00

Here are some pictures from recent events: (I promised, remember!)

Anna and her gigantic squash (gigantic for us, at least - we're terrible gardeners)

Margaret, hunting and wearing that FABULOUS hunter's orange

Goofing off...

Cuties

And, our fantastic brother turned 20! Yay! Get out the party hats! (two months ago)

~Margaret

Hunting

2011-11-03T09:37:00.002-06:00

We went elk hunting a few weeks ago (Robin, Margaret, Maria, our brother, and our brother in Christ). It was so much fun, and, guess what? We didn't get any thing. Figures... huh? :)

The very first day, my brother and I (Margaret) were sitting in a group of trees, looking out on a BIG meadow, searching for elk. All of a sudden, I heard crackling behind us. Twenty yards away, there were seven elk. I turned, they bolted, I trained my gun on one of them (trotting away from me), took the safety off, and pulled the trigger. My gun didn't go off, because, surprise! I had the safety halfway on and halfway off. That was really really sad, because, before I could pull it off all the way, they had dashed off into the woods. I have to admit, I'm WAY too indecisive.

Of course, I still had lots of fun, but I couldn't help but be disappointed going home. Next time, I'm going to treat the first elk I see like it's the last one I see (because, this time, that was true). And, to move on to my final point: We really ought to see our lives like that. I'm not a bold person. I'm a wimp (there, I said it). I'm convicted all the time that I don't share my love for Christ enough. It is pretty hard to just start witnessing to some one about the Lord, but I feel like I just haven't done it enough. I need to be treating time I spend sitting next to some one on an airplane, standing next to some one in line, talking to some one in the library like it is the last time I can share my faith with any one. In reality, I think I need more boldness, so I'm gonna pray for that! There's no being indecisive in this life. Any ways, just some very random thoughts.

I'll post pictures someday...

~Margaret

OH, BY THE WAY: PRESS PLAY ON THE PLAYLIST! IT'S A NEW ONE, AND I LOVE ALL THE SONGS! ;)

14ers and Puppies

2011-08-30T11:35:00.005-06:00

Just recently, we hiked three 14ers in a row. It was really easy, gentle, and fun to be with good friends and in God's creation. I have officially hiked eight 14ers. There's so many more to go! :)

I LOVE the view from the top of 14ers!

We all looked like this going to and coming from the hike

Also, my puppy, Maya, has been growing up, and now looks a lot older (and cuter). I love 'er!

I love that puppy!

She's a good jumper too!

Noble-hearted dog... some times.

Cuties!

~Margaret

Forever Friends

2011-08-04T14:57:00.005-06:00

Some times it can be so hard to find friends. I don't mean just friends, but good friends. Good friends are the type that stay with you in bad times, as well as good times, read the Bible with you, always have an adventure up their sleeve, share secrets, and share memories. Sadly, these type of friends are few and far between. Love for one another is an unheard-of anomaly. But, there is a friend that sticks closer than a brother, and that is Jesus Christ. Yes, we have an amazing Savior who will always be there, and He has provided the few true friends we have. I feel really blessed. Now for some friendship pictures:

Sweet Friends

Sisters

Ha ha... smelly puppy breath! But I do love her.

Lil' Friends

Part of our friend photo shoot. We love the pole too. Not.

Sharin' socks

Sharin' jokes

Smile!

~Margaret

Puppy!

2011-07-20T15:53:00.002-06:00

I just recently got a new puppy, and she's adorable! :) She's a grey and white Siberian Husky, but she looks almost white. We were gone this Monday, hiking 2 14ers (Harvard and Columbia), but we were all so happy to come home to a sweet little puppy. I love her, a lot.

~Margaret

Why, Hello!

2011-07-01T20:43:00.006-06:00

It's been a very, very, very, very, very, very, very, very, very, very, very, very, very, very, very, very, very, very, very, very, very, very, very, very, very, very long time. Ok, now, that could be a bit of an exaggeration, but, hey, who's counting? Moving on... We've been really busy, and have been having sooooo much fun. Here's the scoop:

May: We had a memorial day picnic with our church, which was really fun. We also celebrated my Sweetest Sixteenth birthday, and had a fantastic month overall.

June: Our annual CHEC conference was during that month. Also, Robin, our brother, and I (Margaret) ran a 1/2 marathon. It was so wonderful, and an amazingly beautiful course as well! I LOVED it, and it felt a lot easier than I thought it would be. (Of course, it was 75% downhill, but the feet above sea level was in the 9000's.) Fun, fun, fun... Yay!!!!!!!!!! We've also started on crazy summer things, like playing soccer and Frisbee at the park every. single. week., climbing trees, and rappelling.

July: We're planning a camping trip this coming week, and, we should be able to start hiking some 14ers which should be really fun.

Also, in August, we're planning some thing so Extreme and so fun it's gonna be a blast... If we're able to do it. ;) And then, I'm thinking about getting a dog - a Siberian Huskie to be precise. I've been contacting people and preparing, so it might just happen, but, we'll see. Oh, and we have a Family Camp in August too.

Well, the feeling of a GREAT summer is in the air. I can hardly wait for every thing to start happening!

~Margaret

And now for some pictures:

Happy Birthday Margaret!

2011-05-25T08:11:00.000-06:00

Happy 16th Margaret! We are so thankful for you, and hope you have a great birthday full of adventures and discoveries! :)

WE LOVE YOU:

Anna, Robin, and Maria

It Doesn't Cut

2011-04-20T12:15:00.003-06:00

Words are powerful things. They can build up great friendships, but, at the same time, they can tear down friendships. They cut like a knife when they're spoken in the wrong way, or to tear some one down, but they smooth over the wound like a lotion when they're spoken to build some one up. It really is amazing. You know, I've had a lot of scratches, bruises, burns, cuts, blisters, sore muscles, etc., but none of them have ever hurt as much as words do. Words are as real as life. When some one screams at you, you feel every. single. word. When some one praises you, your life bursts with joy. When some one points out all your problems, you hear it all. When some one tells you that they love you, you NEVER expect them to say, "Haha... Just Kidding!" Yep, words are amazing things. Our family was studying a passage in James... James chapter 3. It talked all about the tongue and the damage it could do. (I'm posting it at the bottom of the page.) It's a good passage, and one that I think every one ought to know. I'm sure we all have terrible problems with bridling our tongues, and that's probably why all the church splits happen today. Churches are splitting, brothers and sisters are offended, people are leaving... It's all becoming one. big. mess. And, you know, it's all because of one small object - the tongue. Some times I think I would do better with my tongue cut off and my fingers lost from frostbite (That way, I wouldn't type my big mouth out either ;)). Yep, but, I guess I'm just gonna have to learn to control the words I say and type. This post isn't to any of you. (If you feel like applying it, that's fine.) This post is for me. I've been awfully convicted of this lately, and I feel like some thing of this sort may be in order for me. ;) Words cut, deep. So, I guess I had better stop talking and start doing. Time to give my animals attention, and my family some love! :)

James 3

My brethren, be not many masters, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation.

For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body.

Behold, we put bits in the horses' mouths, that they may obey us; and we turn about their whole body.

Behold also the ships, which though they be so great, and are driven of fierce winds, yet are they turned about with a very small helm, whithersoever the governor listeth.

Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth!

And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell.

For every kind of beasts, and of birds, and of serpents, and of things in the sea, is tamed, and hath been tamed of mankind:

But the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.

Therewith bless we God, even the Father; and therewith curse we men, which are made after the similitude of God.

Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be.

Doth a fountain send forth at the same place sweet water and bitter?

Can the fig tree, my brethren, bear olive berries? either a vine, figs? so can no fountain both yield salt water and fresh.

Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom.

But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth.

This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish.

For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.

But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.

And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.

~Margaret

Pig Headed

2011-04-17T23:11:00.003-06:00

Well, here's a serious post (for once):

We all have our moments of stubbornness. Of course, that may not be true for all you perfectomundo people out there, but, all I know, is that it's true for me. It may be in a conversation or a discussion (even online) where you just won't give up. You have your "opponent" in your clutches, then you realize, "Wow! What am I doing? I'm tearing down a brother or sister in Christ all because of my stubbornness!" I'm a very stubborn person. I hate it when people contradict me. I love to build and finish projects, but my sin really comes out when some one attempts to assist me. With all my stubbornness, I push away the help, and scream in my mind that I can do it myself, thank you very much. It's sinful, wrong, and not the way God wants me to act. And really, it's the same way in arguments. We want to keep fighting, fighting, fighting, but before long, we realize that what we were saying was really just dust. Plus, if we stick to our stubbornness in wanting to win arguments, won't we just grow up to be like that? Eventually, due to our hotheadedness, there could be whole church splits. Okay, maybe you're thinking that that's a bit dramatic, but, in our world today, I'm afraid to say: not really.

Stubbornness can be a good thing though too. You can be stubborn for God's Kingdom and for other things too, but it has to be channeled into the right spot. A few weeks ago I was hunting for a deer. It took me two weeks before I actually got one, but, in that situation, I was glad I was being stubborn. But, oftentimes, your strong point can also be your weak point. You need to always be careful to build your brothers and sisters up, not tear them down with your pigheadedness.

I know this is a pretty random post, but it's something that has been going on in my head for a long while. Thinking about relationships, I always say to myself, "Why can't those morons just learn to forgive?" before I realize that I have a huge log in my own eye. I'm stubborn, and those "morons" can't learn to forgive because of people like me. It may start out small, but we all know that if it isn't stomped out, then sin will rear its ugly head, and show us our short comings.

I'm a sinner, and I still have a lot to learn, but, there's my 2 cents. ;)

~Margaret

Great Britain Part 1 (And most likely, last part)

2011-03-27T14:41:00.011-06:00

Well, I haven't been here since the Dark Ages, so I hope everyone remembers us. In the last post, I, Margaret mentioned that Robin and I were heading off to England for about three weeks. We've been here (England) for a little over two of those three weeks, and have forgotten the camera... haha... Just Kidding! Gotcha! Here's some pictures. Oh, by the way, we've come over here to help our aunt who had her first baby, so you'll probably see some pictures of the most handsomest, adorablest baby in the world, and you'll know who that is. Yes'm! ;)

Westminster Abbey, and all her glory

Tiredness...

The British Museum -It's HUGE! ;)

Margaret - outside the British Museum

At the British Library - Don't you wish your library was this big?

At the British Museum - studying the Egyptian artifacts

View of the great court from above - at the British Museum

Yeppers... darling little boy

Sarah M. and Margaret in one of the assembly rooms at Bath

Margaret at the ruins of Old Salisbury

The Royal Crescent at Bath (Jane Austen's home)

We also visited The Fashion Museum while in Bath

Stone Henge

A Lovely Ship

Odd name for a restaurant, don't you think?

Flowers at Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle

I kept on seeing this group of guards marching around the castle grounds

Both of us - Robin looks so fantastic. I, on the other hand... Bleh! :)

We visited The Cabinet War Rooms that shared a big part of Winston Churchill's life. They were my favorite part of the entire trip

A maiden sitting within the halls of Westminster Abbey

A graceful swan gliding across the smooth surface of the pond in the middle of Hyde Park (how did that sound?)

We visited lovely Hyde Park, and walked around a bit

While we were at it, we decided to pay a visit to Harrod's (the famous outrageously priced department store)

There were some nice looking clothes, though...

Westminster Abbey

Trafalgar Square

Robin

Margaret, by the Thames River

That is NOT Big Ben. Actually, Big Ben (to be perfectly correct), is the sound the bell makes inside the clock tower. Yay! I actually got that one right.

The London Eye - Largest Ferris Wheel in the World

It's springtime, and the blossoms are on the trees...

Buckingham Palace... and 100s of Tourists

Didn't I tell you he was handsome?

The 1st day we were here, I was so excited about riding on a double decker bus, that I took tons of pictures. The excitement has slowly worn off...

Right before we left - Robin and Anna

~Margaret

Dear Me, Dear Me!

2011-02-21T20:38:00.003-07:00

Ok, I have long neglected this blog. We've been up to a lot. Also, Robin and Margaret are heading off to England in 19... no... 18 days (I'm counting down, can't ya tell?) to spend almost a full month there. I'm REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY EXCITED! Can you tell? :) So, we did a Valentine's Day dinner for couples on Valentine's Day, and had a lot of fun doing it too... If any one is still reading this blog, then.... Wow! If you are not reading this blog, then stop reading this. Thank you for being so faithful (or bored). I don't have any pictures on this computer, so I will leave you with out. Well, actually, I was able to find some from the Valentine's Day Dinner that we put on. Here are a couple:

What Valentine's Dinner doesn't have roses?

A Wonderful Friend - Catherine

The Chafing Dishes with all of our "Wonderful" Creations Hidden Inside

The Greatest Group Eva!

~Margaret

First Deer

2010-12-15T14:28:00.003-07:00

Dear Readers,

I have been hunting for deer on our property for the past two weeks, and have not gotten anything. Then, finally, on the last day of the season, Mommy, Robin, and I were hunting on a neighbor's land when we got a call from Daddy. He reported that there was a herd of deer about 20 yards from our back deck. We headed straight for the car, and we all jumped in. We headed straight for home which was only about 1/2 a mile away from where we were. When we reached the house, I grabbed the gun and ran inside. We went to the laundry room door, and saw about 4 deer exactly 20 yards away. We opened the door to the laundry room, I set up my gun, and aimed. My heart was beating like nobody's business, and I kept on thinking, "I'm gonna miss! I know I am! Please help me, Lord!" I pulled the trigger, and watched the doe fall. I was unbelievably relieved. I yelled, "Thank you, Lord!" It was a high lung shot, so we did have to shoot her again in the head to put her out of her misery. I was happy, but also saddened, because death came into this world because of sin. Animals have to die because of sin, so at the end of it all, there was a joy mingled with sorrow. I am definitely looking forward to Heaven, but there's still a lot of work to be done here on earth.

Signed: Margaret

Our First Musical Review

2010-12-07T14:16:00.014-07:00

Dear Readers,

If you are still out there, then, yay!!! We hope some of you still read our blog occasionally.

So, this past week, we put on a Musical Medley performance. We have been working on this since June, and thought it would be fun to share some of the memories of the night. In this medley, we took songs from different Broadway musicals and reenacted them. It was a blast! Here are some fun pictures:

We're waiting for it to begin!

They are so adorable!

Smile, darlin', smile!

That is one cute carriage

Anything for you!!!!

Marching and singing Be Back Soon

I think she's my favorite Annie. I'm bias.

Folding laundry and singing Matchmaker

Unless he's a matchless match!!!!

A Little Fall of Rain from Les Miserables

These are a few of my favorite things...

I love this picture!

Anastasia in Journey to the Past

High on a hill was a lonely goatherd!

Lay ee odlay ee odloo!

Edelweiss - we're almost done! Just one more song left!

"And up in the steeple an absurd little bird is popping out to say, 'Cuckoo.'"

Cuckoo!!

I'd like to stay and taste my first champagne!

She is the perfect Gretel!

There was lots of applause. :)

A sweet scrapbook from all those wonderful actors and actresses

Time to clean up! (the best part)

Director/Producer - Robin

Director/Producer - Margaret

I hope you enjoyed that post! Have a great week!

~Margaret for Sisters 4

A Week of Vacation

2010-09-19T22:55:00.010-06:00

So, our family doesn't vacation too often. But, amazingly enough, this past week, our family went on a vacation to beautiful Breckenridge, Colorado. After three days in Breckenridge, we headed off to Twin Lakes to camp for a night, hike Mt. Elbert (a 14er), then head home. We had a WONDERFUL time, swimming, hiking, biking, walking, reading, running, bowling, ice skating, and just enjoying the wonderful company and fellowship of the most wonderful family God could ever have blessed any of us with. ;) Here are some pictures from Breckenridge and Twin Lakes:

There were flowers all over Breckenridge

I thought it was just such a wonderful house for a pizza parlor, I had to take a picture of it!

The inside of our cozy little town home

Robin and Mommy on one of our many walks in Breckenridge. It really is an adorable town!

The outside of our town home

Robin and Margaret (best buds)

Margaret (I love swimming)

Maria - waiting in the car, ready to head out for Twin Lakes

Anna - sliding down the playground bar

Okay, admit it. Water is amazing.

Robin the pro is bowling! *Round of applause*

Who doesn't love Uno?

Anna the bowling beast

Margaret (here goes the 7th-in-a-row gutter ball!)

Yep, can you believe it? We had our own private bowling alley. :)

How could you resist hamburgers...

and watermelon?

We had a fox show up to beg for food. When he didn't have much success, he laid down a few yards away from where we were sitting.

He was a decent fellow... not the type that would eat chickens... Ha ha, just kidding. ALL foxes eat chickens.

Camping, here we come!

Anna got some leaves from the bottom that she carried to the top then "planted" in the dirt up there. ;)

We're headin' to the top!

A lovely morning for some lovely hikers

Time to warm your fingers up!

I slept outside, hence the red nose.

Oh, we're so close, yet so far away! (you normally hear that about a million times on 14er hikes)

Maria - at the top of her 2nd 14er

Also, at the top of Mt. Elbert, we met a rather fat chipmunk. He was friendly, and we guessed he probably got most of his dibs off of the soft-hearted hikers that made it to the top.

He wasn't too opposed to eating out of our hands

At the top!

I can hardly believe summer is almost over! This was the 3rd 14er for this year for me. There probably won't be any more until next year... Well, do have a wonderful fall!

~Margaret

Family Camp 2010

2010-09-19T21:54:00.003-06:00

Well, it has been a long time since we posted last, so here is a new post. In August, our church put on our annual Renewing the Family Camp. This time, though, in stead of holding it at Glorieta, NM, we had it at Cherry Creek State Park in Colorado. Here are a few pictures:

Family Olympics - The Bucket Race

Robin and Noel

The Hula Hoop Race (we got 3rd place in this one)

At the morning session

Anna (so cute)

Anyways, I have to get on to more exciting things in the postworld, so I will leave you with those pictures, and these few words: We had a lot of fun, running, biking, swimming, playing sports, and so on. Do have a lovely week! And, if you're still alive, we would appreciate a comment of some shape or size. ;)

~The Sisters 4

Family is Wonderful!

2010-07-28T10:11:00.005-06:00

Mittens the Kitten

Robin traversing the streets of San Antonio

The Alamo

Souveniers

The best way to take self portraits is in a mirror...

It's relaxing to play a fun game of frisbee golf with your best friends...

Anna and her babies

Practicing a very fun song with some very fun people!

The brother during an intense game of frisbee golf,

We have had some wonderful family times this summer and I just thought I would share some of those... No, we didn't go any vacations, but we did have a lot of fun!

This post was written by:

Robin

Home Life

2010-07-22T10:14:00.003-06:00

Mittens=the cutest cat in the world (I'm bias)

Time to practice our singing!

A darling little foal

Robin and her lovely birthday cake

Oh, the things that appear during summertime...

Frisbee Golf

The little humorist in our house

Timmy the Turtle

Goodbyes

2010-07-14T09:52:00.001-06:00

About a month ago, we had a going away party for a young man in our church... It was sad to see him go, but he's going on to minister to other people at an Airforce place in Texas.

Examining her cake... Hmm....

Playing volleyball

He's got a big smile and an even bigger laugh

Listening to funny and endearing stories about Matthew

Deep Conversations :)

Fair Maidens

2010-07-13T10:15:00.003-06:00

Dew drops on the flowers in the Palace flower garden

Princess Anna loved her kitten and Mittens loved her

Princess Margaret's 15th birthday

Princess Anna

Both the people and the animals loved this fair and
wise maiden

They played and had fun in the creeks near the castle

The serenity in her expression belies the contentment of her quiet life

Dressed for homemaking

Long long ago in 2010 there lived 2 beautiful princesses, daughters of a great king, whose names were Margaret and Anna. They loved the outdoors and being out with the animals :)

Hiking in God's Creation

2010-07-13T09:35:00.007-06:00

A few weeks ago we went on a hike to the Castlewood Canyon
We hiked about 3-4 miles on a fairly easy trail, taking time to talk, dip our feet in the creek,
and have some good family time! It was great!

Robin and Anna sloshing through the

The dusty trail

Rocky crags of mountain fastnesses

The hiking group from far away (I made it far away for a reason :)

The girls enjoying the cool water of the creek running through
Castlewood Canyon

Robin squinting into the sun

He's airborne!

The brother of the Singing Sisters 4

Signed:
Robin

Cute Kitties... and everything else!

2010-07-12T22:59:00.004-06:00

Robin smoking Frisbee Golf

Margaret winds up for the pitch

A little garden area in the midst of San Antonio, TX

Maria's ecstasy

A view from the Castlewood Canyon

Robin and Maria wading in the cool creek flowing through
Castlewood Canyon

Cute Kitten Sisters - Mittens and Kathy

Ready for a photo shoot?

I know. We've been gone for a while now. But we're back with posts on cute kitties and the beautiful outdoors!

Signed:
Robin

Conference Weekend!!

2010-06-25T13:35:00.005-06:00

Margaret in the car on the way home from a busy weekend

The Bag Check - very inviting and fun to be in... Robin,
Margaret, and Maria spent much time in here

The book table in the Plaza area

"Here is the Bag Check"

Entrance to the main hall

The Nursery - It was so inviting I wanted to be in there
although I don't have a baby

Busily preparing for General Session

Empty hallways

Robin trying to take a self portrait

Yeah conference weekend happened a while ago, but I figure it's not too late to share a few pictures of our time there. We rushed around, helped with comfort services, hostessed rooms, talked with people, helped serve food to hundreds of people, and made many memories with the sisters 4.

Signed:
Robin
Trying to catch up... :)

I Just Thought I Would Stop by to Say...

2010-05-04T19:14:00.003-06:00

Maybe it would be a good thing for me to start the "Photo of the Week" again... Just a thought. :)

New Life

2010-05-01T01:23:00.002-06:00

So, tonight, we went over to our friends' house to enjoy an evening with them. When we got there, we were greeted by lots of little boys yelling and smiling, because, just then, a few minutes before we arrived, their horse had had a foal. We went down to see it, and it was the most adorable new born foal I have EVER seen! (Of course, that's probably because it's the only new born foal I've ever seen.) I went into the little stall/corral where they had it, along with it's mother. I watched it take it's first steps, and even got to hold it! :) I was reminded again and again of how much God cares for us. He takes care of us, and gives new life! Not only does He bless us with hundreds of little children, but He even cares for us so much as to give us new born foals, puppies, kittens, etc. As I held this little miracle, and helped it towards the nipple, I was so amazed by the complexity. It seemed so small and frail.

Tonight, I was thinking of our country. We don't care for life. People today abort their children, but are all worried about when some one does something "nasty" towards the trees or the animals. Of course, God does want us to regard the lives of our beasts, but He is even more concerned about human life. In America, we throw human life in the trash can, not even caring. However, as Christians, we need to always be thankful for the wonderful people God has placed in our lives. New life is a gift.

Make sure to tell some one that you love them!

~Margaret~

Bike Ride

2010-04-27T09:51:00.007-06:00

Hello, readers! So, I decided, I should probably get back into posting a little more often... It's so hard though, because there are so many things to do, and hundreds of adventures to be had, who wants to write blog posts? Anyways... yesterday, Robin, Dan, and I went on a 50ish-mile bike ride. We went to a bike path that lay right along a creek. We parked the car at a store, then rode down to the trail. It was beautiful, and probably the most wonderful bike ride I've ever been on! :) Here are some pictures:

Driving to the trail

Self-portraits are fun...

Dan

Wow, imagine that!

We saw hundreds of these... We should have brought a gun... :)

A small part of the "trail" turned into a road... but it was a pretty nice trail. However, there were a few mud puddles. Remember, whenever you see a huge mud puddle in the middle of the trail, speed up as fast as you can, and fly through the water!!!! Who can resist mud puddles?

We're almost done

Yep, sitting in the creek is real fun... especially at the end of a long bike ride. I love water! :)

Stretching...

And stretching...

Headed home... :)

~Margaret

A Tad Bit of an Update

2010-04-22T09:09:00.008-06:00

It's been a long time since we've posted, hasn't it? We've been having the most WONDERFUL days ever!!!! We got our first rains of the season, finally! :) I love April showers.... There's something much too wonderful to describe about being outside, after coming back from a short walk, and you're raking up leaves and twigs, when, all of a sudden, you hear, "Splish, splash, pitter, patter," and then, you feel something wet on your face, and you look up to see hundreds of drops of water falling from above... Whenever that happens, I always put down whatever I'm doing, and run out into an open spot, away from the trees, then start skipping, dancing, and twirling. I LOVE rain!!!! :) Anyways, so as to not bore you too much with my ramblings, here are some pictures:

Also, it's some one's birthday today... Love ya, Maria! We had a really fantastic time celebrating her birthday. The night before, we celebrated with cake and presents, then tonight, we went for a girls' night out... :)

Personally, I think this cake looks a little like a dog on steroids or maybe a dog that had a little too much caffeine. That's why his eyes are spinning... :)

~Sisters 4

Highly Recommended Blogs

2010-03-30T12:33:00.001-06:00

A blog that I read frequently and that I highly recommend is http://listeningandobservingoutloud.blogspot.com! Please visit and follow if you have time!
Signed: Margaret&Robin

More Conference and After Conference

2010-03-15T16:21:00.005-06:00

All in all, it was a most wonderful

week for Maria, Robin, Anna, and

Margaret!

This is what tired people do after a conference...

When you can't barely think or speak

comprehensibly, you play CLUE!

He looks so excited about the game, doesn't

he?

The sun is shining! Hearts are light in the first sessions

of the day!

Edifying Conversations

Smiling faces in braces :-)

Miss Maria having a good laugh

To make this conference a day to remember, we still have many more memories and pictures to share with you all! We had many laughs, edifying conversations, and listened to great speakers at the conference.

2010 Economics Conference

2010-03-12T08:35:00.011-07:00

This last week our family was part of a big, exciting, 800 person conference. It came out to about 830 with all the volunteers, but it was a great, wonderful, exciting time and here are some pictures to share the fun and edifying time we had at the conference.

One of the speakers

Don't fall asleep now :-)

Margaret at hard at work at the GwV table

The Wintons

Camera work is fun and exciting!

Miss Meg, Head of Registration

Miss Maria watches a group of talking ushers and

registrars in the background....

"You can't be bored, can you?"

The main auditorium on Conference Prep day

It sure was empty!

Ushers hard at work

~Robin

Making Brothers and Sisters Best Friends

2010-02-10T11:30:00.005-07:00

Some things are really hard, and when I say hard, I mean HARD! I don't know about some of you, but I would have to say that the hardest thing for me is having a close and loving relationship with my brother and sisters. However, even though it's not exactly the easiest thing in the world, we still do need to try with all our might to love our brothers and sisters. When I was quite a bit younger, my number one problem was probably learning to get along with my siblings, and, although I'm definitely NOT perfect in that area now, I do know that I probably have a stronger relationship with all of my siblings now. And now, I'm best friends with all my siblings. We've been through a lot together, shared hundreds upon hundreds of memories, joked with each other a lot, teased each other, had good discussions, and the list goes on...

It seems like we all have different inside jokes that we all tend to enjoy, and little memories that are either embarrassing or funny that we like to remind each other of. Even though we have our moments when we're not the most kind siblings, I definitely know that loving each other and casting away faults is worth it all in the end.

~Sisters 4

Happy 1st Birthday, Blog!

2010-02-09T14:39:00.003-07:00

Well, to tell you the truth, I didn't think our blog would last this long, but it did. Wow! This is amazing. We've known this blog for one whole year now. *Shakes hands with the blog, and says, "Nice to know you, Blog."* We've been through a lot together (Ok, not really, but that just sounds kind of touching). Anyways, I guess that's all I have to say. I'm not terribly creative today, so I don't think I'll fill up to much of this space, unless.... I... make the font kind of big...

Of course, that doesn't look very "in style", so I guess I'll stick to the "normal" size font... *Ahem*

Well, I hope everything is going well for ya'll. The snow is on the ground, and I think that it's high time that some one went and joined it, so it doesn't feel too lonely... And, I suppose that that "some one" is me!!!

~Sisters 4

Normal Life

2010-02-08T16:41:00.004-07:00

Hi! Maria and Margaret here, coming to you from New York City, New York!! We are excited to see the faces on your profile pictures! Anyways, we are NOT really in New York, but I had a feeling you probably already knew that.

Well, our days have been pretty normal... We've been doing the normal things, like sky-diving, bungee jumping, hiking Mt. Everest, going to the olympics, flying to the moon over the weekend, and.... making our beds in the morning! ... um... sometimes.

Also, we had a housewarming (actually, houseswarming party for our new home). We've also been decorating it and making memories in it (you probably don't want to know what the "memories" are).

We've had beautiful weather, although, today it's snowing. However, Anna just said that she liked the weather on the moon better! But then, Margaret just said that she enjoyed Antarctica more.

Well, I suppose we had better go! Have a wonderful day, week, month, year, decade, century, and millennium... or until we post next!!

Making a House a Home,

Maria, Margaret, and Anna!!!

Photo of the Week - Waiting for Spring

2010-01-19T19:07:00.003-07:00

~Sisters 4

The Smoke Has Cleared, I Think...

2010-01-18T21:54:00.001-07:00

Well, we started moving on Friday. Tough stuff. Believe me, if you've never moved before, that's good. Period. Here's how the days were like in my mind:

Day 1 - Whoo!!!!!!!! Let's do this thing!!!!!! I could move five million boxes today!!! I could move an elephant, or a car, or a house!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I've been trying to be tougher, and now is my chance. I can help Mommy and Daddy. I can do anything!!!!!! We're gonna be the best movers, EVER!!

Day 2 - Wow, where'd all the people go that were helping us. Do I have to get up at 6:00? Oh man, well, I guess I'll help. Uggh!

Day 3 -Yes!!! We're almost done. Please, my arms and back are telling me to stop moving boxes. They told me they wouldn't like me anymore.

Day 4 -One more day of moving, and I think I'll die. Do we have to set up beds today? Uggggggggghhhhhhhhh!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I HATE moving!!!!!

Day 5 - Where's that one box, with the porcelain dolls in it. Do you know where the people put the box of legos. Man, why can't that person read? This box says: Girl's Room, and they put it in the Study. Oh wait, I think that was me.... Umm, I mean, That poor person, some one gave them the wrong label.... WHERE'd everything GO! I can't find ANYTHING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Well, that was our week. You can tell, we had a wonderful week! :)

~Sisters 4

Photos of the Week - Around the Neighborhood

2010-01-13T08:27:00.005-07:00

Drum roll, please... We are now restarting the photo of the week, once more. These are a couple pictures that we took on a lovely run/bike around our lovely neighborhood. Beautiful, huh?

~Sisters 4

Man's Best Friend

2010-01-12T21:20:00.002-07:00

For all you dog-lovers:

Man's Best Friend

Author: Timothy P Vreeland

My friend is loyal and eager to please
I'd sit in my chair, his head on my knees
I'd stroke his back and pat him on the side
The things he would do filled my heart with pride
He watched my house and my family too
He was always there to look over you
Never my house did I have to lock
A bark and a growl at the very first knock

Unconditional love is what he gave to me
From the look in his eye it was all you could see
Sometimes I'd yell "be quiet, lay down"
He'd lay in the corner and not make a sound
As he grew old and couldn't get around
I forgot how he'd greet me with a leap and a bound

Soon came the time he could no longer stand on his own
I picked him up and carried him to see God's home
On the way there I remembered all the good years
I looked at my friend through all of my tears

I told him I loved him
Soon the pain would be gone
I did the hardest thing
I ever have done

I went the last mile
I was there to the end
I know now why they called him
"Man's Best Friend"

What is your favorite breed?

~Sisters 4

We're A-movin'

2010-01-10T21:32:00.004-07:00

Well, the Sisters 4 are a bit sad to say that our family is moving. We're moving from a wonderful house that we've lived in for 14 years to another soon-to-be wonderful house that we will hopefully be able to build many more special and precious memories in. Here are some pictures that we shot of a few of the precious memories we've shared. Tell us what you think:

God has definitely blessed us with a wonderful place to live, hasn't He?

~The Sisters 4

A Very Late Merry Christmas to you all!

2009-12-29T16:05:00.002-07:00

Luke 2~

And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed.

(And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)

And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.

And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)

To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.

And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.

And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.

And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.

And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.

And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.

But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.

And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.

~Sisters 4

P.S. We'll get back to posting a photo of the week soon!

The Best Vacation Ever!

2009-12-19T12:50:00.016-07:00

Dear Readers and Friends,

The Sisters 4 (along with their family) just returned from a wonderful vacation up in New Zealand! (Haha, oh wait, that's not where we went. I think I got a bit carried away...) Let's see, where did we go? Oh, that's right! We traveled all the way up to Steamboat Springs, CO. Really, I think it's better than New Zealand, but that's all a matter of opinion... :) We enjoyed a whole week up there, sledding, snow-shoeing, getting stuck on the side of the road, spending time with each other, and enjoying God's creation. We stayed up there in a beautiful cabin, and had an absolutely WONDERFUL vacation! Here are the pictures:

The "Cabin" (cute "little" cabin, aye?)

Robin the Clown (Metaphorically, the girl with many hats)

A miniature of the beautiful cabin we spent the week in

Anna and Margaret engaged in deep conversation

Whooh! Here we go!

The spa/sauna room

Gussie

The Kitchen

Right before we go down the hill

Making our way back up the hill (it's tough work in 3 feet of snow)

We all LOVE sledding! (of course, we do wipe out about half the time)

How sweet!

How unique!

~Reading right before bed~
(Isn't she adorable?)

Robin

Margaret in the snow fort we built

Gussie in her favorite place... Haha!

Two Sweet Sisters in the Spa

The amazing moose head in the living room

Anna

Margaret

Outside, sledding

Hahahahaha... (I think she likes being a reindeer)

God's Beautiful Creation

Our Beautiful Mama in all her snow gear

Posted By:
Robin and Margaret and Anna

Photos of the Weeks - Snowy Beauty

2009-12-03T22:49:00.005-07:00

Ok, we know already. We didn't post a photo of the week last week, and this week, we're getting it to you kinda late. So, we are posting two pictures, again...

Taken by: Yours Truly

Taken with: Nikon

~Margaret!!!!!!~

Happy Late Thanksgiving!

2009-12-02T21:20:00.005-07:00

Well, Thanksgiving has come and gone, but I'm still thankful. I thought about not even posting about this, since it was going to be so late and all, but I have now made up my mind: Better late than never!

We had an absolutely BEAUTIFUL Thanksgiving! Robin, Dan, and Maria had to leave early to go to a Turkey Trot race. They said they had a wonderful time. And now, you may be thinking: "Wow, Margaret! What a lazy bum you are! You didn't go to the race, and your younger sister did?! I'm surprised at you!"

Yes, yes, I must admit, I am a bit lazy... But, I did have a few excuses:

Excuse #1-Who would have helped Mommy with the dinner if I had gone as well?

Excuse #2-I'm a cheapskate, and didn't want to pay the whole $25 to get into the race. However, if I had been 12 or younger, I would have gone! (12 and under got in free; No fair)

Well, those are my so-called "good" excuses ;).

Then, moving on... As soon as my siblings returned home from their extremely taxing run, we ate, until we bursted. Haha, just kidding, my friends...

After our wonderful, wonderful friends left, our family packed up, and we left to go stay the night at a hotel. Now, that is strange, isn't it? Well, Excuse #3(this is for something else, of course)-Hotels tend to be quite cheap on Thanksgiving night.

We spent the night, went swimming, did lots o' different stuff, then, in the morning we awoke. Black Friday! We rushed out, pushing and shoving, trying to get to the good deals first, grabbing all the junk on the shelves, rushing around the mall, into Walmart, starting riots, creating chaos, getting all the stuff our house could POSSIBLY hold! MWAHAHA!!! Stuff! STUFF!! STUFF!!!!!!!!!!!!! "Wait! What happened to Thanksgiving?" (Hehe...)

Well, we interrupt this broadcast to tell you exactly what we're thankful for. I am SO thankful for:

-Daddy

-Mommy

-My wonderful brother and sisters

-Our terrific church

-All the things that God has allowed us to use: i.e. our house, our beds, our toothbrushes (yep), etc

-Our relatives

-My beautiful grandma who has no thought of herself, and is SOOOO patient with us when teaching us the piano (especially over the phone; I would get WAY too frustrated)

-My humble and thrifty grandpa

-All the other things that are too many to mention

-And, the #1 thing I am so utterly thankful for is:

That God sent His only Son to die for us and rise again, conquering death, and then going up to live an eternal life in Heaven.

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." ~John 3:16

~Margaret~

What Have we Been Doing?

2009-11-18T10:50:00.002-07:00

Wow! It's been a long time since we've posted a "regular" post about everyday life for us. So, I guess I'll post some pictures, along with an update.

Here's the update: We've been busy, really busy.

And, here are the pictures:

Snow person :)

Anna

Margaret

Maria and Gussie

See, a simple and quick post. We'll keep you updated! :)

Photo of the Week - Matching Sisters

2009-11-18T10:45:00.002-07:00

Taken by: Mama

Taken with: Nikon

~Sisters 4

Photo of the Week - Fence Posts

2009-11-12T20:59:00.003-07:00

Taken by: Margaret

Taken with: Nikon

~Robin~

Photos of the Weeks - Dazzled

2009-11-03T17:28:00.004-07:00

We forgot completely about posting a picture last week, so, this week, we are going to post two pictures. :) Here are two things that I am unfailingly dazzled with:

Babies and...

Snow!

~Sisters 4

Snow!

2009-10-21T15:18:00.002-06:00

Well, this is the first day that we have actually been having a nice BIG sticky snow storm in a loooooong time! It is absolutely BEAUTIFUL outside!!! Praise the Lord for snow!!!!!!!!

~Sisters 4

Photo of the Week - Down the Road

2009-10-21T15:06:00.006-06:00

Taken by: Margaret

Taken with: Nikon

Yours Truly,
Sisters 4

Photo of the Week - Little Sunny

2009-10-13T15:11:00.006-06:00

Rest in Peace or In a Coyote's Belly

Taken by: Margaret

Taken with: Nikon

~ Robin

Photo of the Week - A Moment Remembered

2009-10-06T20:36:00.001-06:00

Taken by: Maria

Taken with: Nikon

~Sisters 4

Photo of the Week - Sunny Flower

2009-09-28T20:09:00.003-06:00

Taken by: Margaret

Taken with: Nikon

~Anna

Oregon Trip: An EXTREMELY late post

2009-09-20T21:47:00.025-06:00

About two weeks ago, our whole family was able to take a one week long vacation to Oregon to see a few of our aunts, uncles, cousins, and grandparents. We flew down there on Sunday night, right after church. Here's what we did:

Plane Ride:

This kind of disappointed us, especially the part about no smoking (Just Kidding)

Reading good books

Church Picnic:
On Monday, the day after we arrived, we went to a church picnic put on by the church that two of my uncles and aunts attend. We had a great time, and made friends with some of the very sweet young ladies that go to the church. Afterwards, we drove down to my Grandpa and Grandma's house. It was a 4 hour drive!

James and Grace (our adorable adopted cousins) - right before we left for the picnic

Sierra - one of our very sweet cousins

A beautiful creek that was right near where we had the picnic. We went wading in it, which was really rather fun...

Christa

~Volleyball~
The net was getting kinda low... haha

A Hike in Grants Pass:
When we got to Grants Pass, we started on activities right away. The first day of being at Grants Pass, we went on a hike with my uncle and my aunt that live there. It was just a quick 4-mile hike that goes along the Rogue River, and ends at Rainie Falls. Rainie Falls is a small waterfall, but very pretty. We got to see two rafters go down it in their kayaks, and lots of fish trying to get over it. Plus, we saw how wonderful God is, especially in creating those fish to do that. God is amazing!
Right before we left for the hike

Amazing experience: At the Falls, we had the privilege to see salmon and steelheads trying to take on Rainie Falls. It was really hard to get pictures of them, but Robin got this "fabulous" (she says so) picture of this beautiful salmon trying to get over the falls on it's way back to the nesting grounds.

Anna, watching the fish

Maria

This guy went ahead and tackled Rainie Falls in his kayak. Of course, he was probably really experience, because there have been a few fatalities there before.

Rainie Falls

Hiking... It was a really easy hike

Good Times at Grandpa and Grandma's House:
It is what it says...
Anna and Margaret

Walking...

A light bulb turned on in his head!

Wild Turkeys - sorry the picture is so blurry, but it was a little hard getting pictures of them. These turkeys came by Grandpa and Grandma's house every day, and ate apples off the apple trees. They reminded me a little of our chickens...

We saw a lot of deer there. This fawn was a twin to another fawn. VERY cute!!!

We also saw plenty of hawks and birds of prey

Time for a piggyback ride!

Rafting Trip:
The last day we were there, we went on our first rafting trip together (as a family). It was fun. They were easy rapids, so it wasn't too tough. It was the perfect time for bird watching, so we saw HUNDREDS! We weren't able to bring the camera out on the river with us to take pictures (for fear we would drop it), so the pictures at the bottom are just pictures we found online. It was fun just to spend time together. There were a few times when we had to row quickly through the rapids, but then, there were other times when it was so quiet, we could just slip out of the boat, and "swim" alongside the raft. It. was. beautiful.!
Anna - in the car, on our way to the Rogue River

Maria

A very bad picture (and that's all I'm going to say)

Margaret

This is NOT of us

We saw a bunch of blue herons on our rafting trip.

We also saw ducks...

and geese...

And even (thought we) saw a few of these "lovely" turkey vultures

I'm afraid that's all the pictures we have to show you (Actually, we have a ton more, but they are confidential.) Til' next time!

~Sisters 4

Photo of the Week - Kitten Eyes

2009-09-14T20:34:00.006-06:00

Taken by: Robin

Taken with: Nikon

Photo of the Week - Little Friend

2009-09-14T20:24:00.004-06:00

Starting this week, on the start of every week, we are going to be posting a new picture that we REALLY like. So, here we go!

Taken by: Margaret

Taken with: Nikon

Family Camp - Family Olympics

2009-08-25T21:15:00.015-06:00

Family Camp would never be complete with out Family Olympics, so, here I am to report on the happenings of Family Olympics. Here are pictures (lots of 'em):

Race #1: "The three-legged race" - I absolutely love the three-legged race. On this one, we only got finalists, but, hey, at least we got that far. :)

Anna & Maria - so utterly cute together

I love it!

Race #2: "The run-and-spin-with-your-head-on-the-bat-til'-you-can-no-longer-think race" - Whew! This relay race, you have to run, take the yellow bat that lays there on the ground, then, spin on it for five times, then run back without falling over from dizziness and without running into someone else, and touch your team mate's hand. We placed 3rd in this race. That's probably the best we've ever gotten...

Moms really know how to do this race!

Race #3 - "The hold-the-ball-between-two-backs race" - We only got to finalists in this race, but that's fine with me. It was a neat race where we placed a ball in between two people, and one person dragged the other person, while trying to keep the ball in place. This race was pretty tough, and near the end, we didn't do so well, but, oh well! :)

Two little lassies, together again!

The two rather competitive people on the team - what a disaster putting them together! JK...

And here, are just pictures of random people:

Mrs. D.

Marie

I love that sweet smile...

Looking very determined... kinda

Daniel and Jenna

Isaac - a photographer

Mama

Amy B.

Riley

Our Team (at least part of it, and none of them looking)

David -yet another photographer

We had an absolutely wonderful Family Olympics this year, and I hope we have another great one next year!

Also, we'll make a couple more posts about Family Camp.

Family Camp - Sessions

2009-08-25T21:00:00.005-06:00

During Family Camp, we couldn't go without visionary talks and times to just sit down and listen to someone exhort, so, both in the morning and in the evening, we had a session. We listened to talks, watched families put on their own skits and performances, and listened to our every-year-musician, Nathan Clark George. Here are a couple pictures from a few of the sessions:

The Quartet - teaching us to sing in parts

The Desert Skies Bluegrass Band

Daddy - speaking

Meredith - playing piano

On one night, the Botkin sisters played two songs on their harps, then for the last song, their father came and played his guitar alongside them. It was such a precious moment to see Mr. Botkin play with his daughters.

~Sisters 4

Family Camp - The Prayer Garden

2009-08-25T20:38:00.005-06:00

The day after we got there, I went down to the Prayer Garden to meditate, write in my journal, read my Bible, and take some pictures. Here they are (the pictures, I mean) :)

I know this may seem strange, but, I just had to take a picture of these two blackbirds. It was so cute. They were both playing with each other, touching beaks, and just enjoying the afternoon together. I think they were in love... :)

Flowers,

flowers,

and more flowers...

Flowing water...

Family Camp -The Trip

2009-08-25T20:37:00.002-06:00

And here, drum roll please, are pictures of our trip down to Glorieta, NM. Please be careful while viewing. Very interesting pictures of very interesting people...

Ahh... what a sweet smile, however, it was somewhat ruined because of this certain little girl in the background, messing up the PICTURE!!

...No comment...

The best picture yet...

Even better!

Car trips are the best. Not only because of the precious time spent together as a family, but, if your car ride goes through the night, the sunset is normally always the highlight!

And now, you may ask why we didn't post that many pictures on our car trip. Well, most of them are quite inadequate to post (In other words, you do not want to see them.) :)

~See ya! We'll post some more in sections very soon!

Family Camp - Introduction

2009-08-25T20:04:00.003-06:00

This past week was the 5th annual Renewing the Family Camp that our church puts on. It was such a fun, exciting, and blessed time spent playing volleyball, ultimate Frisbee, dodge ball, soccer, kickball, and all those other fun sports. We also were able to ride boats, play hide-and-go-seek on the vast campground, bike ride, and participate in all the other exciting things people put on. Also, another highlight of our lovely week was that we got to stay in a beautiful lodge with the Botkin family (The Botkins spoke at the camp.). We had some great conversations with the Anna Sofia and Elizabeth, as well as Mr. and Mrs. Botkin and the young men. We learned that they are a very delightful family to spend time with, and enjoyable people to talk to.

On Sunday afternoon, we all loaded in the car after the service and some fellowship and made our way to Glorieta, New Mexico. We arrived in the late night. The camp ran from Monday night-Friday afternoon. There were lots of fellowship opportunities and activities that our church put on. There was a popcorn party one night, along with a bonfire that same night. Then, the morning following we held Family Olympics (very fun, but a bit interesting at times). Then, the last night, a scavenger hunt was put on for all the people 12 and up. (It was at night, so it made it one hundred times better than just a regular scavenger hunt.) We ended up having a GREAT team so we won (since we had a nice looking flower and cubed rock... JK). Well, I'll quit the chit-chat and get to pictures, so here we go...

Tales of 4 Very Irresponsible Blog-owners

2009-08-14T21:30:00.002-06:00

Oh dear, I do believe we have become slack in our blog updates. We will most certainly try to put up a better post than this one, but at the moment, I am just here to tell you that we are not dead, and neither is this blog. We have been quite busy, but have not forgotten our blog. Needless to say, we have had a busy summer, and have not had as much time as we would wish to have to update this blog. Right now, we are preparing for an annual Family Camp our church has had for quite a few years now, and we will most certainly update you on that once it has come and gone... :) So, have a wonderful rest of the time, and we will try not to neglect this blog as much as we already have. :)

~Sisters 4

Pictures...

2009-07-16T10:07:00.004-06:00

Yesterday, all us girls went outside, and took pictures. (Pictures are so much fun to take, when the sun is just about to set and the sun is leaving bright streaks against the green grass.) We all got dressed in jean skirts and blue sunflower jumpers, then went outside. Hope you enjoy them!

That's all for now, folks! We'll try and put some on the sidebar.

P.S. We'll also post a couple more pictures of the Reformation 500!

~Two of the Sisters 4

The Reformation 500 - Faith and Freedom Tour

2009-07-14T21:54:00.006-06:00

And, here is the second part of my posts about the Reformation 500. During the celebration, they had a whole bunch of mini Faith and Freedom tours. We only managed to take one, but that one was a really good tour. We went and saw the Old North Church, (We've seen the Old North Church before, but we mainly wanted to go on this tour just to see Copp's Hill.) then trudged up the road to Copp's Hill. It was so amazing to look at all the gravestones, and to just remind ourselves of our Christian heritage. Here's a quote from John Adams:

"After Martin Luther had introduced into Germany the liberty of thinking in matters of religion, and erected the standard of reformation, John Calvin, a native of Noyon, in Picardie, of a vast genius, singular eloquence, various erudition, and polished taste, embraced the cause of reformation. In the books which he published, and in the discourses which he held in the several cities of France, he proposed one hundred and twenty-eight articles in opposition to the creed of the Roman Catholic church. These opinions were soon embraced with ardor, and maintained with obstinacy, by a great number of persons of all conditions. The asylum and the centre of this new sect was Geneva, a city situated on the lake ancient, called Lemanus, on the frontiers of Savoy, which had shaken off the yoke of its bishop and the Duke of Savoy, and erected itself into a republic, under the title of a free city, for the sake of liberty of conscience.

Let not Geneva be forgotten or despised. Religious liberty owes it much respect."

Mr. Serven-Our tour guide

Mrs. Serven

Daddy, by the Mather Tomb

At Copp's Hill, remembering those that came before us...

The green the rain brought...

The Reformation 500 - The Reformers

2009-07-06T22:19:00.011-06:00

This past week, Daddy and I had the privilege of journeying to Boston, and celebrating the 500th birthday of John Calvin with some wonderful people. We had a blessed time, and really enjoyed the time spent with friends and each other. In this post, I'm only posting pictures of the reenacting "reformers". They were people dressed up in costume, and would tell stories, as well as sign your booklets and give you encouraging verses to dwell on. I will post more pictures of the event in another post, but here are these to start off! :) (Do pardon the not-so-good lighting on some of the pictures.)

John Calvin

John Knox

Anne Bradstreet

Katharina Luther: telling her stories and signing booklets

Athanasius - signing his name in Greek

Lovely Lady Jane Grey Dudley

Anna Sofia as Queen Jeanne d'Albret

Elizabeth B. as Queen Anne Boleyn

Until next time!
~Margaret

C.H.E.C. Conference 2009

2009-06-24T21:55:00.010-06:00

Wow! What a wonderful conference we had. Danadelfos, Margaret, and Robin all volunteered, while both Maria and Anna had fun swimming, and just spending time with Mommy. Daddy also spoke as a keynote, and, well, we all really enjoyed ourselves. Here are a few pictures we all managed to get, splitting the picture-taking up between us...

First General Session
(This wasn't hugely packed, but there is still more seating you probably can't see. Plus, there were also quite a few people lined up against the walls. Trust me, you should have actually seen Little Bear Wheeler's. It was P-A-C-K-E-D!)

Yes, our wonderful brother :)

In The Hospitality Suite...

Marie

Hannah

Margaret

~Abigail M.~

Daddy giving a little bit o' vision to the men

Lending ears to the great discussions going on

Ok, well, we do have a couple other pictures, but, these are just a few, to show you just what we've been doing around here. Needless to say, the time spent at the conference was filled up with late nights, busy times, tough work, good food, really neat discussions, vision, and the rest of the things that tend to come with big gatherings.

Til' next time,
Sisters 4

Preparing...

2009-06-17T12:25:00.004-06:00

Sorry we haven't posted in quite a while. We've been pretty busy with packing and just getting ready for the CHEC home school conference. We've been making meals, cleaning house, making beds, making lists, packing, shopping, etc. Wow! It's amazing what you can get done in just a couple days! I don't have much to say now, but just give ya'll a reminder that we will be posting more soon. :) I'll try to get some pictures, and post them on here. Well, I hope all of you have a blessed week!

~Sisters 4

A Happy Memorial Day to Ya'll!!!

2009-05-27T12:51:00.001-06:00

Monday was a great day. Danadelfos went home with a guy in out church who was running the Bolder Boulder, because he was going to run the race as well.

Well, we got up fairly early. I think it was about 5 a.m. We cut up lettuce, tomatoes, etc. for the picnic, then left at about 8:15. We had a lovely drive to Fox Run Park, and got there at about 8:45. We unloaded the car, cleaned the grills off, then we went on a quarter of a mile run around the park. When we got back, a couple other families had already arrived. They went down and set up a few games. We helped Mommy, until it was time for lunch. After the prayer, I talked with a few people, then went down to the field. I played soccer for a little while. It was SO much fun!! Later, I played Capture the Flag with some children in the church.

Well, I'm just glad God has blessed us with such a great church family to fellowship with!

~Margaret, once again :)

A Wedding

2009-05-26T22:00:00.003-06:00

Saturday, our family went to a wedding. Is was really good, and very God-honoring. Robin and I helped with serving food, drinks, etc. My feet were kind of sore by the end of the day, but it was a TON of fun!! I can't wait till I can do that again. Here are a few (or maybe, alot of) pictures. And, thank you all you girls who helped with serving food!

The Beautiful Bride

Exhortations for their married life together

The First Kiss

High Fives and Smiles

Sweet Girls

Beautiful Smiles

Precious Goodbyes

The Happy Couple

Sorry for the pictures we didn't get of the wedding. :)

~Margaret

Attack of the Beagle upon the Grill Cleaner

2009-05-18T20:54:00.002-06:00

Gussie, our beagle, lives quite an exciting (not really) life. She is beat up by our chickens, sprayed with water (from us), but the most exciting thing in her life, is....... eating. She's actually pretty fun(ny) to watch-the way she acts, and all. :) These pictures I caught of her are pretty funny. I guess she thought the grill scrubber was some kind of food.

Hmm... I wonder what this is...

Whatever it is, it will be quickly diminished by Gussie the Great. Ha ha, here we go!

I should probably advance over on this side, so it won't see me, then...

ATTACK!!!

Wow, that was pretty energetic for Gussie. She normally just lies around all day. You should have seen her eating it. She almost had a heart attack when she found out it wasn't food. Until next time...

~Just us

Happy Mother's Day!

2009-05-10T22:05:00.002-06:00

We were trying to find a picture with only Mama in it, but this was the only one we could find. Oh well, they're both one flesh anyways. :)

We love you, Mommy!

~All 4 of Us

The Work of Her Hands

2009-05-06T14:46:00.002-06:00

Well, I do know it isn't Mother's Day, yet, but, even though it isn't, I still appreciate my mother ALL the time. She manages to laugh at all our jokes (even if they're corny), help us with all our school (yep, even math), help feed and water animals (when we forget), clean the house with us (and actually make it fun!), work on projects around the house, record in journals about us when we forget, write (long) letters, stay in touch with friends, and do tons more! She is a very busy person, but doesn't mind it at all. There's hardly a minute of the day, when I don't hear her quick foot steps going across the floor, picking up this and that... this and that... I am sooo thankful for my mother. She is always making sure we have the right curriculum for homeschooling. She challenges us to work harder and try harder. She pushes us on. And, she has never once given up! She's really amazing and precious to all of us. Make sure you thank your mother for all the things she has done for you. And, not only on or near Mother's Day, but every day!

Mother

Mom, you're a wonderful mother,
So gentle, yet so strong.
The many ways you show you care
Always make me feel I belong. You're patient when I'm foolish;
You give guidance when I ask;
It seems you can do most anything;
You're the master of every task. You're a dependable source of comfort;
You're my cushion when I fall.
You help in times of trouble;
You support me whenever I call. I love you more than you know;
You have my total respect.
If I had my choice of mothers,
You'd be the one I'd select!

Guess What?

2009-05-04T14:58:00.008-06:00

So, when I was eleven years old, I really, really, really got into medieval times. I researched all about them, but mostly about the clothing. The beautiful dresses with long flowing sleeves simply enthralled me, and when I turned twelve, I decided that I wanted to make one. On my birthday, my mama, sisters, and I went to the store, picked out a pattern, and with the help of a very sweet lady from from our church, we were able to adjust the pattern to fit me.

During the next few days, I also picked out slip and dress material. I was EXTREMELY excited about having my very own medieval costume!

Well, the months went on. So did the weeks, days, and hours. Not to mention: years. One year passed, and I hadn't finished my dress! Well, this year was going to be my two year "anniversary", but, this week, I sat down, and.................................................................
.............................................
............................................
Finished my dress!!

I was probably the happiest person on planet earth, as I stitched the last stitch on the hem. I was glad to feel the soft satin slip over my head, and get that wonderful feeling you (girls, not boys) get when you put on something really "dressy-uppy". (That was a very inconspicuous word I found in a very large dictionary, with LOTS of words.) Well, needless to say, I'm just very thankful to have finished that. Thanks, Mrs. K.!

Hmm... On to my next project, aye?

~Margaret

Happy Birthday, Best Friend!

2009-04-29T07:53:00.006-06:00

Maria has turned twelve! We love, you, Maria!

The Calm Before the Storm

2009-04-20T20:11:00.007-06:00

We had a "lovely" storm, here in CO, and we loved it! The only problem with snow in CO, is that it melts, REALLY quickly. The sun will come out, and it's only a matter of time before it is completely melted. Oh well! It can't be cloudy all the time, can it? Well here are some pictures:

Homeschool Day at the Capitol

2009-04-18T10:20:00.008-06:00

On April 3rd, 2009, homeschoolers from all over Colorado, came to make a stand for homeschooling, down at the capitol. We had classes at the beginning and end of the day, in the Pillar of Fire Church. In the afternoon, 2,000 people walked down to the capitol, and held a rally. It was a really good rally, but I didn't hear some of it, because I was walking around, taking pictures. However, when I was right in the middle of taking pictures, the camera decided it wanted to go out of battery. Oh well! At least I got some to share with you.

Some parts of the Capitol blend in with the sky

A Sweet Picture

Denver is the city of tall buildings

Miss Anna

Heidi

I know this is a bit later than when the event really happened, but here it is anyways! :)

Sleepover

2009-03-31T09:17:00.010-06:00

Well, I'm sorry I haven't posted in quite a while. I hope you haven't forgotten about this blog yet, for lack of posts. :)

On Friday, we went to a sleepover. It was a very blessed time, spent with some great friends. I have posted some pictures. Hope you enjoy them!

Jessica and Rachel

Sweet Sisterly Love-Joanna and Jess

The Whole Group

Kris, Jess, and Grace

Lovely Walks

~Sisters 4

P.S. Make sure you check out our new playlist. I highly recommend it! (I wonder why that is?)

Back Home

2009-03-12T21:49:00.003-06:00

So, our family is VERY happy to be back home from Las Vegas. We went there for my grandpa's funeral. It was a blessed trip, and we were all able to spend time loving each other, by sitting close in the car. Car trips have got to be one of my fondest memories! I love passing the time by reading good books, having nice long talks with my big sister in the back seat, and just enjoying the beautiful scenery that God has made. We had a good "vacation", and were able to edify and build up one another. Thank the Lord we're back home, and ready to pick up our tasks once again!

~Sisters 4

Life is Fleeting

2009-03-03T08:03:00.002-07:00

Yesterday, late at night, our dear Grandpa passed away.

As I sit here, pondering death, I think of how life goes by so quickly. Sometimes it seems as though life will go on forever and ever, but it doesn't. Death will come at one point. But, death isn't the end. While here on earth, we must spend our time fighting the good fight, working to finish the race to the best of our ability. However, when we get to Heaven, we get a new body.

Sometimes, I think: God, we prayed that you would heal this person! Why didn't you heal them?

But, God did heal them! He took them home with Him! And in Heaven, we get a new body that no disease or sickness can corrupt! He may not have healed them in the way that we thought He was going to heal them, but in a different (even better) way.

It is so comforting, because, before, my Grandpa wasn't a Christian. He was so against God's Word, but at the very end, He made peace with God. Our God is so amazing! He gave my Grandpa a few more days, so that he could come to know the LORD, and he did.

We should spend our time here on earth wisely. Do not waste the few years of life that you have. Spend it glorifying God and giving Him praise. Life is but a vapor... here one day, gone the next.

~I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:

Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing. ~2 Timothy 4:7-8

1. Be still, my soul; the Lord is on thy side;
Bear patiently the cross of grief or pain;
Leave to thy God to order and provide;
In every change He faithful will remain.
Be still, my soul; thy best, thy heavenly, Friend
Through thorny ways leads to a joyful end.

2. Be still, my soul; thy God doth undertake
To guide the future as He has the past.
Thy hope, thy confidence, let nothing shake;
All now mysterious shall be bright at last.
Be still, my soul; the waves and winds still know
His voice who ruled them while He dwelt below.

3. Be still, my soul, though dearest friends depart
And all is darkened in the vale of tears;
Then shalt thou better know His love, His heart,
Who comes to soothe thy sorrows and thy fears.
Be still, my soul; thy Jesus can repay
From His own fullness all He takes away.

4. Be still, my soul; the hour is hastening on
When we shall be forever with the Lord,
When disappointment, grief, and fear are gone,
Sorrow forgot, love's purest joys restored.
Be still, my soul; when change and tears are past,
All safe and blessed we shall meet at last.

In Christ,

Sisters 4

The Love of the Brethren

2009-03-02T21:02:00.003-07:00

I think one of the hardest things to do is to love But everyday, we find ourselves having to love someone. We are constantly around people. And not only people, but sinners! We are always with family and friends, who are very tough to love, but yet God commands us to love. I think all of you would agree with me, when I say that people who are closest to you are hardest to love. But just think: What is being humble based on? How about not being selfish with your toys and things? I'd have to say: LOVE.

I remember, as a young girl, I would often find myself having to say sorry. I had no problem with just saying, "Sorry." However, when it came to actually hugging them, and touching them, I didn't want to do it. I was so full of pride, just the thought of hugging them made me cringe. After all, they were the ones who committed the wrong in the first place! I actually have to love them!? That's impossible!

Sometimes I wonder, Why did God make his greatest commandment so hard to do? I have to keep on reminding myself "to love". I'm not supposed to say "sorry" just for the sake of saying "sorry", but my motivation should be because I love my siblings! I am continually having to cry out to God for help in loving my family!

Loving is hard, but it tends to humble me, leave me not as selfish, drive all anger away, and help me in being more gentle and understanding with people.

Needless to say, my family and friends have been REALLY loving to me. But the most loving is God, and I have definitely learned from His WONDERFUL example. He loves us even though we are the most wretched people ever! Its soo amazing, and I'm just glad I have such a loving God!

~And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love. ~1 Cor. 13

In Christ's Love,
Miss Margaret

Peaceful Days at Home

2009-02-16T22:15:00.006-07:00

So, we haven't quite been keeping up with our blog. Have no fear. It's only because we have been having a very peaceful winter at home. (In other words, doing nothing except for: school, cooking, cleaning, going on walks, helping with animals in the neighborhood, taking care of our own animals, and all the other usual things that normally go on in our household.) However, today is different. We are taking the day off of school (because its Saturday) to clean animal cages! Actually, don't get me wrong, I love cleaning the chicken coop. I have no idea why. Probably because I like the feeling I get of being able to go in there, and smell the sweet smell of wood shavings and straw. Aaah... lovely!

Description of today: the sun is shining brightly outside, The house is peaceful and quiet, and the chickens are pecking around at bugs (I doubt there are any alive). It is an absolutely BEAUTIFUL day today! (Actually, I think everyday is beautiful.) :)

Well, I'd better be going! Farewell to ya'll!

God's Creation

2009-02-13T17:30:00.001-07:00

This world is so beautiful. I am amazed, everyday, as I see the sun set or rise, how creative God is. He made everything, from the huge elephant to the tiny mouse, from the ugly warthog to the beautiful and majestic horse. All His creation is so intricately designed. When I watch a horse gallop, with its mane flowing in the wind, I am simply speechless. Also, when I go outside to gather eggs, I think: God DEFINITELY has a sense of humor. So, as you sit outside this evening, watching the red and purple hues of the sun brighten up the fading blue sky, thank God for His wonderful and majestic creation. What a great God we serve!

How Great Thou Art

O Lord my God, When I in awesome wonder,
Consider all the worlds Thy Hands have made;
I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder,
Thy power throughout the universe displayed.

Then sings my soul, My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art.
Then sings my soul, My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art!

When through the woods, and forest glades I wander,
And hear the birds sing sweetly in the trees.
When I look down, from lofty mountain grandeur
And see the brook, and feel the gentle breeze.

Then sings my soul, My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art.
Then sings my soul, My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art!

And when I think, that God, His Son not sparing;
Sent Him to die, I scarce can take it in;
That on the Cross, my burden gladly bearing,
He bled and died to take away my sin.

Then sings my soul, My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art.
Then sings my soul, My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art!

When Christ shall come, with shout of acclamation,
And take me home, what joy shall fill my heart.
Then I shall bow, in humble adoration,
And then proclaim: "My God, how great Thou art!"

Then sings my soul, My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art.
Then sings my soul, My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art!

~Miss Margaret

Fun Night

2009-02-10T22:01:00.001-07:00

Communion Cup Pyramids-Fun!The boys enjoyed playing games Chocolate Cookies...mmm!

The aftermath of the attack upon the tower