Here is Caleb's picture from his first day of school - can you tell that I am running behind? He started school on August 25th so it's almost been exactly one month since he started - wow. He has made some good friends, done well adjusting to the school schedule (better than his mom!), and seems to be thriving in this new environment. His teacher told him a few weeks ago that she was so glad that he was in his class - of course - I teared up when she told me this. We're so grateful to the Lord for placing Caleb in this school at this particular time in his life. Thank you for your prayers for Caleb. Pray that he would be a light to the school and that we would be a blessing to his teacher and classmates.

One of Caleb's first requests after returning to the States was to go to Putt-Putt. Caleb and Samantha had a lot of fun, but my putting ability has dramatically worsened. My highlight was when my sister bought a hot fudge cake from the Creamery (a restaurant next door to Putt-Putt) and shared it with me. It was so good! Here are some other pictures of Dad and Amber playing ball with the girls and a cute one of Caroline.

Our church family gave us a wonderful shower to welcome us home. And they "showered" us with good food, sweet hugs, and gifts to help us during this transition time. We felt so loved, and it was a blessing for all of us. The kids enjoyed seeing everyone and sampling all the food. Caleb especially loved the sausage balls! The cake was also delicious!

Here are a few pictures of little Claire. Samantha and Caroline decided to join her on her playmat!

Once we had been back in the States for about a week, we headed to my aunt and uncle's home in Virginia. They have four sons who are like brothers to me. We had a great time! Here are some pics of the cousins together and of Uncle Tim showing off his baby skills. Chris and Brandon show that they know how to play with dolls too, and Caleb loved playing with their cats - this is Pebbles. The last one is of Gamma and Caleb together.