Fall Pictures of the Larkly Kids!

On Thursday morning I looked out my kitchen window and noticed that leaves filled our entire backyard. It was true inspiration! I knew that was the day to be our fall picture day for the kids.

Acarith loves getting ready for pictures so that makes it easy for me. :)

Selah did a great job getting her pictures. As long as I told her she would get a treat for smiling, she did great! :)

Now this one was the challenge--getting both girls to smile and look at the camera at the same time! :) Seriously, I probably took at least 30 before I got this one!

Hardy is a natural at the whole picture process; he knows that if he does a good job he can be done in two minutes. :)

Tirzah is definitely a picture pro; she knows Mama won't rest until she gets some good pictures so even though she's not overly fond of getting her picture taken and re-taken, she cooperates to be done as fast as possible. :)

Seriously, I love these pictures!  

Ruth Ann Takes a Vacation to South Dakota!

I had the opportunity this past week to spend some time with my dear friend Laurie. Laurie and I were roommates for six years when we taught at a Christian school in Oregon, but haven't seen each other for 8 years! We met up at her parent's house in South Dakota and it was fun catching up and getting to know her husband Raymond and two kids, Rachel and Joel. With Laurie being a missionary to Mexico and me having four children, it's been hard for us to have a get together.

I had only spent two nights away from the kids ever so was unsure how it would all work out--but it did! Tim did a great job taking care of the kids! I am so thankful for a husband that not only gave me the okay to get away, but also really encouraged me to get away.

 

 

Rachel is seven (Hardy's age) and such a little sweetheart! I enjoyed getting to know her and fixing her beautiful hair; we had a great time together!

Joel is six and just an adorable, energetic little guy. He totally reminds me of my little Hardy and his little hugs were so sweet!

On Monday night, me, Laurie's family, and her parents drove to Custer to watch a football game that Caleb, Laurie's nephew, played in. It was also fun spending time with Matt and Wilma (Laurie's sister-in-law), and their other kids Hannah, Joshua, and Samuel. I got to sit by Joel and Wilma and it was cute watching Joel enjoy the game and fun catching up with Wilma.

This is Caleb. I have known him since he was just one year old and it is so thrilling to see him growing up and growing in the Lord. (I tried to post a picture of his sister and brothers but it didn't work. All of the kids are just so fun and sweet-spirited.)

Rachel and Joel were so cute and gave me the sweetest hugs; I think they helped me being away from my own family. Laurie and I spent hours and hours talking and I'm glad we were able to take the time to renew our friendship. It really was the perfect vacation!