Seventeen

Our dear son turned 17 last week!  He is growing into a very fine young man for which we are so thankful. We are also thankful for his group of friends.  They are a great bunch of guys!  Here are a few of them, about to devour the birthday cake...

The Tree

A short distance from our home begins a walk that is always a favourite with us.  It is an easy walk, perfect for chatting and walking at the same time.  It leads to the castle ruins above Loerrach.  We do love to wander around the ruin but when the kids were young the favourite part always seemed to be "The Tree".  Today was no exception.  The castle was closed, but the tree (or maybe I should say, "it's roots") still held its pull.

Another Year...

Another year is dawning, dear Father, let it be
In working or in waiting, another year with Thee.
Another year of progress, another year of praise,
Another year of proving Thy presence all the days.

Another year of mercies, of faithfulness and grace,
Another year of gladness in the shining of Thy face;
Another year of leaning upon Thy loving breast;
Another year of trusting, of quiet, happy rest.

Another year of service, of witness for Thy love,
Another year of training for holier work above.
Another year is dawning, dear Father, let it be
On earth, or else in Heaven, another year for Thee.

Words: Frances Havergal, 1874. Music: Samuel Wesley, 1864