Family Vacation 2019

Summer vacations are all about R&R for the Raabes even though most trips have a dual purpose. You won't see us flitting off to Bora Bora unless there is a wedding, soccer game or another event of importance to our family. See we are a coupon type of family so dual purpose trips are like a BOGO trip. Back to the rest and relaxation...this summer we flew to Phoenix to spend time with Great Grandma then drove to California for Soccer. Good ol' family time.

Now that Emma is two years into college and no longer lives at home, I don't take family time for granted. Being with Chris and the girls brings tremendous joy. Back when I was wiping behinds and burping babies I didn't dream this day would ever be here. 
Truly, it all happens so fast!

G R E A T   G R A N D M A

**Great Grandma recuperating after hip surgery.** 

This gal is 89 years young. I love that she has stayed active both physically and mentally all these years, which is why she has been able to stay in her own home...until now. We are facing a new era with Grandma, either looking for in home care or assisted living. Grandma, we love you so much!

T A M M Y

Sometimes you don't know what you are made of until you are pushed to the limits! I am proud of Tammy for finally saying, "I am over it!" If you are interested in supporting victims of domestic violence, she is selling some pretty awesome shirts. 

Lots of swimming to survive the 100+ degree heat

Picking peaches!

We may have gone a little overboard. I should have a picture of the cases of peaches, I think there was 40+ pounds of juicy goodness.

C H U R C H

A trip to Arizona just doesn't seem complete without a church service at CCV. This isn't the same old facility of 20 years ago but there are still some familiar faces. Chris and I were raised in christian homes but we didn't really find our own faith until we found this hidden jewel on Saturday nights meeting in a high school auditorium. As a midwest girl, I didn't know that was a thing. Chris and I met Jesus as our personal savior at Christ's Church of the Valley. We will always be grateful.

AND THIS IS WHY WE MADE THE TRIP

SOCCER . SOCCER . SOCCER

Playing in a National Championship tournament in the ECNL league is a remarkable feat for anyone, especially a small soccer club from Nebraska. I am so proud of the hard work and dedication the girls poured into their sport for an entire year in order to qualify. With that said, the outcome of the first three games were pretty devastating. Reagan netted half of the goals we scored. That sounds pretty darn good! This is where stats can be misleading...she scored one goal. :) I could list multiple reasons we didn't find success on the pitch that week but it's not just about winning and losing. Even in a serious butt-kicking you can grow as a player. It's not just what you did, it's what you learn.

Some of my favorite things...

the ocean

hiking with the girls

chris

Over the years I have learned so much from my in-laws about service, unconditional love and faith. Their love for Jesus is apparent in the way they serve others. Chris' parents love supporting our girls, whether it is orchestra, soccer, musicals or sorority activities they are there. It's one thing to drive across town to watch a game or concert but driving to California for 3 soccer games is pretty remarkable. We had a special week traveling, eating, swimming, visiting and watching soccer with Papa and Nana. Then right before we flew home we celebrated Nana's Birthday with these gourmet cupcakes and yummy coffee from Human Bean. We can't even begin to thank them for the model of God's love they provide daily.

F R I E N D S

Friends and family from afar

 (Next Time Vicki!! I hope to be back in November)

O C E A N   P I C T U R E S

Sixteen years ago our families became friends. These two girls were inseparable. At 8 years old Emma even cut Gab's hair...free of charge of coarse. Their lives have gone in different directions and they don't get to see each other very often but while we were in San Diego it was such a joy to catch up with our favorite ballerina. 
She dances AND makes a good cup of coffee.

I have been trying to find some time to write out this post. Life is crazy, you've gotta be intentional about smelling the roses. 

For the sake of my family and friends, I will say, 

"Peace be within you,"  Psalm 122:8