Thursday

With the constant rain here during our visit, it was such a welcome break when the sun appeared for most of Thursday. We were able to have lunch with our friends, James and Ann, and their children. James and Ann used to live in Fresno, but moved to Edmonton several years ago. Every time I think of it, I am still amazed that someone I knew in Fresno moved to my beloved Edmonton... Anyway, we always look forward to our annual visit with them! It was wonderful to be able to talk and share about each others' lives. Our children are also very close in age, so it's nice for them to have friends to play with. Later in the evening, my sister offered to watch our kids for us so we could have an early anniversary dinner. Our actual anniversary is July 24, but we're going to be in Sacramento that day for Jason's track races (he'll need to focus on that). The weather cooperated long enough for her to take the kids to the Millwoods Farmer's Market. Being the good aunt she is, of course she let them get all kinds of sweet treats!Jason and I are celebrating 11 years of marriage this year! To celebrate, we went out for a special dinner. For years, I have wanted to try The Melting Pot. It is a fondue restaurant chain, and oddly enough, its first and only Canadian location is in Edmonton. There are tables for various sized groups, including cozy booths for parties of 2. We'd love to go with a group some time- it'd be a fun "group experience." Aside from the loud people in the booth next to us, it was a wonderful evening- the food was fantastic, and the ambience was romantic. We highly recommend it, but if you go, be prepared- it was the most expensive meal we have ever had! There have been many ups and downs over the years. I don't ever want to take for granted how God has really protected and strengthened our marriage over these past few years. I have seen first hand how God has moved in and through both of us- I feel incredibly blessed.