motocross

Corban and I had our first motocross outing yesterday. I think he really enjoyed it, though, they are so loud that I think he was a little scared of them yet. My sisters and Chris came along which was a huge blessing. I love hanging out with my family!

I think I'm addicted to taking Corban to do things, which I hope is a good problem. On Saturday we took a road trip to Lake City to watch my sisters compete in the Highlander Games. Later we drove south to Reads Landing to visit my cousin Kim who just bought a new house. That area is so beautiful, and Lake Pepin is amazing!

summer dresses

It would be nothing less than mean if I didn't share pictures like this one. Our little girl is 5 months old already, can you believe it!?

one of my favorite things...

...is enjoying World's Best Doughnuts with my family in the most perfect spot to enjoy them.

Happy Father's Day (a message from a hacker/wife)

Thank you for being a father who...

delights in evening story-time and bedtime prayers
talks about Jesus and His love for us
after a long, strenuous day at work, still musters up energy to play with your children
knows when to hold and when to discipline
makes our children squeal with delight
gives lots of hugs and kisses
lets his son help him with projects
is quick to show mercy
is someone I'd like our son grow up to be like

God is good to give us you. We love you!

out of the mouths of babes you have ordained praise

*a post from Emily

Wednesday evening, as I lifted Corban, I felt a pop in my lower back. I knew it was going to be trouble. I asked Corban to pray for me. This is what he prayed, "Jesus, help mommy, back feel better [followed by words I couldn't understand], Amen." It was precious to have my 2yr old son pray for me. And today, my back doesn't hurt. In fact, it hasn't hurt since Corban prayed. The Lord hears, the Lord answers. Even the prayers of a little boy for his mommy. I am grateful.

I think he likes her

Before Jadon, the first thing he would ask for in the morning was food, milk, or a Jeep - something normal right. Now the first thing on his mind when he gets up is his sister. He can hardly wait to say good morning to her and give her a tender kiss on the forehead.

Corban is very sweet to Jadon, and for this we are grateful to God! We are excited for Jadon that she gets to have such a wonderful big brother. We pray that they will be sweet to each other as they grow up.

new family member arrives

On Friday, February 19th at 7:50 the LORD brought into the world Jadon Anaiah Carlson (Jay-den Ah-nigh-ah). Her name is Hebrew for "God hears" and "Yahweh answers". She is a petite 7.2 lbs and is cute as can be!

Thank you all so much for your prayers. We have definitely felt God's hand upon us as we went through labor and now this first day with our daughter. Jadon is doing great, doing all that little ones are supposed to, and Emily is already on the mend. We plan to go home tonight after 8:00 if everything stays good.

Please continue to pray for us as we "meld" as a family. Ask God that Corban would welcome his sister with a happy, helpful heart.

Thank you all so much!

another evidence of God's grace