Date Night faces

Mark is not angry or constipated, he is just trying to look funny at the camera. Lovely.

Kendra looks like she has something in her mouth, and she does! Delicious, rich, moist, chocolate mousse cake, decadence on a plate.

Kendra's ramblings about music with list of favorites

I (Kendra) grew up singing hymns, but not many of the really old hymns as I came to find out during our time at College Church. I learned a number of "gospel" or "revival" hymns. So, in my head tonight is the chorus of one such hymn called Revive Us Again--"Hallelujah, thine the glory, Hallelujah, amen. Hallelujah, thine the glory, revive us again." This was commonly sung in our church along with "Victory in Jesus" "He Keeps Me Singing" "Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus," and many others, mostly written by Fanny Crosby.

I find that music is the language of my heart. I can think of a song for just about any phrase. Anna has compared me to Barney--which is a compliment I suppose. Between the camp songs I learned growing up attending day camp and youth camps to the nursery rhymes my Mema used to sing, to the songs I learned at school in choir, to music on the radio and in my church, music has been a continual part of my existence. I can't really nail down my favorite songs, if it is singable, I will end up singing it at some point (even surprising my older husband Mark that somehow I know a portion of classic rock that he remembers, but I should not).

I would say, in general, my favorite songs are those that poetically or literally communicate a truthful message with a compelling melody and lovely harmony. I prefer stringed instruments to winds, and anything played on piano captivates me. (That is why I must learn piano, and yet can't see the forest for the trees when I am the one making the sounds come together). All that to say, here are a list of some songs that I think I will never forget because they are, most likely, my favorites:

"Our song" Stardust-sad message, but lovely melody sung best in my ear by my husband while slow dancing, but Nat King Cole and Harry Connick, Jr. are a close second!
How Deep the Father's Love for Us-often in my head when Mark is playing with the kids, and powerful message of redemption.
Before the Throne of God Above and In Christ Alone-christological messages put to singable melodies, great for worship and adoration of Jesus Christ.
Butterfly People-I think of my sister Cheryl when I sing it because the last time I sang with her to my recollection was a harmony to this song as she performed it in an Irish pub.
Were You There? and Ah, Lord Jesus-haunting and convicting songs about the death and suffering of Jesus. When I sing these songs, I can't forget the price that was paid for my sins.
The Lord Bless You and Keep You-gorgeous when sung in at least four-part harmony (angelic in my estimation), reminiscent of my high school choir days and singing with Cheryl at church growing up.
Be Thou My Vision-a song that you can pray and a prayer that you can sing.
Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing-I love the old words and unchanging message with all the variations of melodies that have been done.
Psalm 121 (For You are Good) -helps me have perspective and remember God's goodness no matter what, as well as reminds me I have a place to run when I am hurting or afraid.
Great is Thy Faithfulness-this ought to be sung at my funeral, because it is my theme song for life. Another song that I love to sing, Nicole Nordman's recent rendition is thoughtful and beautiful.