Grammy and Poppy in Italy

Sorry for the blogging absence. We just finished a wonderful visit with my parents. They were here for about two weeks and we had a great time in Florence (and taking day trips to surrounding towns). Over 1,000 pictures were taken during their time here so I figured that, instead of choosing a few to post here, I'd give you the link to my Facebook album from their trip. HERE you'll find over 100 pictures of our time together.

We've been so blessed that both my family and the Stowers clan has been able to make sacrifices to visit us this year. Even though we don't get to see them often, I feel like our time together is special for everyone. They've even been able to see Colton as he grows and changes! Such a blessing.

Speaking of C, he is in such a fun stage right now. He is talking a lot - not full sentences but all sorts of words. It seems like every single day he says at least one new word. Recently he's learned to distinguish between "car," "tractor," and "train!" Other recent words are "pea," "egg," "MINE!" and "story." He can imitate almost any word or sound, too. The other day I told him that a chicken says "buck, buck, buck, buck-aw!" and he repeated it perfectly. So adorable.

Colton is always making noise, talking or singing to himself, and it's so fun to hear our home filled with his joy! We'll try to get some video of it soon to show you. :)

Now life is back to normal. Our next visitor doesn't come until August (Sara, my friend from college) so we've got some down time. On Monday I begin taking a two-week-long, intensive course in Italian. I'm nervous but also excited for it. Please be praying that I test well and can keep up with everyone else in my class. Pray, also, that I will have ample energy to go to class, study, and continue to get things done at home during these next couple of weeks. I'll update you on how it goes soon! Until then...