The Hughes Clan

My mom and dad, and three sisters all live nearby. We are a very close family, helping each other through the challenges that life throws our way, and celebrating what the Lord has done for us. I praise the Lord for allowing me to grow up in a Christian home, where I learned about Jesus. I have watched my parents go through things that would have caused most people to quit, but they kept on keeping on. They are my prayer warriors, the one's I confide in, my friends, and my hero's. We have all gone through our share of trials and temptations, but thank God for His grace and mercy, and a family with an unconditional love for each other.

Lake Cushman

I have lived here in Washington most of my life and had never been to Lake Cushman till last month. Dustin's sister Tiff and her husband Norm bought some land on the lake and are just finishing building their cabin. A home away from home. Dustin's mom was in town from Virginia for the 4th of July so we thought we would spend the day at the lake. It was a long drive, but the closer we got, the more beautiful our surroundings became. The cabin is so peaceful with not another house in view. There is an absolutely stunning view of the mountains from the front porch.


We threw the kids in the back of Uncle Norms truck and took off down the dirt road to the lake. I really can't put into words how in awe I was when we got there. It literally took my breath away. I mean, we have some pretty beautiful places here in the Northwest but this was by far my new favorite. The lake is surrounded by mountains and hills, and there was a hazey fog when we first arrived. The whole day kinda seemed like we were in another time and place.

It was such a relaxing, fun-filled day. No tv's, no radio, no rush. We shared past memories and made new ones. Simple family chit-chat and lots of laughter. It was a good day. One of the best in my opinion. I can't wait to go back.

Our pets...

When Hopie turned 5 and started school it left me with sort of an "empty nest" feeling.Dustin finally gave in to getting me a puppy, on which I could shower my love and affections. I shopped around for a hypo-allergenic breed that I liked and ended up with our mini-Schnauzer, Dewey. I love my little companion who happily lays at my feet and pines for my attention.

Our newest addition is our baby yorkie, Phoebe. Well, actually, she is Grace's puppy, but we all get to enjoy her sweet disposition & adorable little face. Dewey loves having a new playmate although at times, I think he gets a little weary of her playful spirit.

...and of course, I can't forget about Diamond, our kitty. Grace and I brought her home from the grocery store almost 5 years ago. A few months prior I had made Grace get rid of her ginnypig...disgusting animals, and now we would try a cat. After all, they are not large, sharp tooth rodents. We were blessed to get a kitty who doesn't need a cat box but prefers to go outside to do her business. She just sits at the door and meows. She is pretty anti-social, but will on occasion, curl up in a ball beside you and allow you to pet her.

A day with baby Emily

My kids and I just love having little Emily over. It is so much fun to have a baby in the house again. Her mommy, Shannon, can leave her with us ANYTIME! Emily is infatuated with shoes, but what girly-girl isn't? She found a pair Hopie's crocs, (well, not really a pair, she grabbed two different colors) put them on, and started walking around the house so all could see. At one point she grabbed Grace's over-sized bag to complete the fashion statement. We all laughed as she tried to walk without falling over.

A bitter-sweet farewell

There was not a dry eye in the place as we said goodbye to Lindsey on Sunday. She was born and raised in our church and is now off to Bible college. What a beautiful lady she has become! I am so blessed that my children have seen such a testimony of a surrendered, Christ-centered life. I know that she will continue to be a Godly influence to everyone she meets. As hard as it is to say goodbye, we are also praising God for what He is doing in her life. We sent her off with a home-made quilt signed by her church family..young and old. What a neat idea.

Learning to blog...

Thank you, Charrissa for trying to help me via email. I am still not sure about how some of this stuff works, as you can probably see. I have so much I want to share and am excited to start blogging.



...I see another time stealer in the works :)