Mexico Update

It is high time for a second update from the Ranch.  Things are going well here.  We are still alive and well.  I experienced the joy of life last night as I watched kittens being born.  Seemed much easier than having a child.  Life was really nice when we had power (from a generator) and running water (from water tanks up the hill) at the Johnsons.  Now we are facing reality as we come home to a lofthouse each night.  The Lord has totally been stretching us.  Our late night talks have been challenging, but wonderful.  Matthew and I are learning new things about each other, and I am excited to see how the Lord is going to grow us.  Please pray for continued wisdom and guidance and that we can be of great support to the missionaries down here.  Also, that we have fun!

Also, to my Beth Moore bible study ladies, I really missed you this week! but Jen & I watched the dvd and are looking forward to 2 more lessons together.  Can't wait til I am together with you all again soon.

Parents & siblings - we miss you all and wish you were here with us.  Hopefully we can do another family build next year!

The Johnson's house, where we spent our first 2 nights

Rick's lofthouse, where we will spend the remainder of our month.

The dining hall, where we do most of our cooking.

Playing Settler's, a game that can last hours

I saw some of these kittens being born... how often can you say that?

Matt & Jen trying to turn on the generator at the Van Nes.
This is right before Matt & I hoofed it up the hill to turn on the water.

These little guys helped me out with my journaling &
bible study at the Johnson's.

Jen & I with Shaina, the cake covered birthday girl

One happy six year old!

She's all smiles!

Trip to the Bay

Before I came down to Mexico, I went up North for my cousin's baby shower.  It was a fun, but all too short trip to my parent's house.  Here are a few pictures from our sightseeing day on Friday.

The Golden Gate Bridge

A view of the Golden Gate, from closer up

Davis and his awesome girlfriend Kaitlyn

With my traveling companions, Caitlin and Jen

Alex & Bryley (kinda cousins, born one day apart)

Without so much wind this time...

We got some delicious ice cream below the famous Ghirardelli Square

We're here!

Hey everyone!  I just wanted to put up a quick post to say that we have both made it safely to the Ranch in Mexico.  When I arrived today, Matt was hard at work on the coffeehouse with the McCoys.  Jen and I just finished up our workout and are now headed over to the McCoy's for Shaina's birthday dinner.  I will try to keep you all updated as to how our month is going.  Love to all!  -M & M

Manny & Dani Wedding

My cousin got married a few months ago, and it is high time that I post the pictures!

Matthew showing off the shot glass wedding favors

mmm Vino.  Thanks Uncle Bryan

And now I  present for the first time -- Mr & Mrs Manny Morales!!  Woo hoo

They all partied to Black Eyed Peas (I think). Very fun!

First dance.  How sweet.

We added a little bling to our centerpiece

My beautiful cousin Bryley & I

Danielle forced Davis to be in the garter toss. I think he's pouting

Not pouting, but no luck!

Mexico in May

I realized that I never shared pictures from our last trip to Mexico.  And thanks to Darren for all of these.  There are many many more.  But I don't have the stamina to sort through them now!  I think this trip was back in May... it was with our church, Go.

With my best co-worker :)  Doing what we love together!

Our little church (or at least those of us who came to Mexico)

A few lofthouses, including part of one that we built.  And Geeski's truck

Putting on the roofcap, Matt & Lonnie directing me from below (I had to use my nail starter to quickly get the nails through the cap)

Hopefully I will be able to update while we are down there during these next few weeks.  Love you all!