The Serven Clan

Christmastime with the Clan

2012-01-03T20:12:00.002-06:00

Hey, at least it's white!

Christmas was a very full time for us. Many hours of cooking yummy treats, fun discussions, and lots of late nights! Although we missed having the whole "clan" together, we were so glad Nathan was able to join us!

Enjoy the photos-

It's beginning to Look a lot like Christmas . . .

lights are up!

Andrew hangs the hand-made-by-a-three-year-old family star.

Dad and Mom put their corsage and butonniere (from their wedding) on the tree every year.

a little bit o' frosty-ness.

red berries.

our lovely tree.

peppermint-stick wrapping.

frosty-ness.

it's not all play- somebody has to wash dishes!

Christmas Eve with dear friends

Sweet girls.

tellin' stories.

Chritmas day is here

Traditional Serven lineup -minus 10 special people. :]

Andrew's turn up the stairs.

Stuffing from a stocking.

Christmas brunch.

yummy-ness.

2 brothers + 2 hats.

2 brothers + 2 books. :)

Christmas happiness.

Table decorations.

The chef at his best.

Birthdays

For Andrew's 13th birthday we tried our hand at Geocaching. It turned out to be quite fun, by a bit of a wild goose chase, too! :)

Joel gives it a shot.

Recording in the log book.

a little bit of Christmas at the ServenClan

2011-12-27T23:51:00.002-06:00

a straw star that our great uncle gave us.

I wonder who's this is . . . :)

a fraser fir tree.

a polka-dot candy cane.

Mr. Peter and Meredith Serven

2011-10-18T22:39:00.003-05:00

We love you guys! : )

More wedding pictures to come . . . .

A Good Thing . . .

2011-08-24T19:34:00.006-05:00

"He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the Lord." Proverbs 18:22

We are excited to officially announce that on July 29th, Peter asked Meredith Blalock to be his wife. And she said yes! The Lord is exceedingly good and we continue to rejoice in all he has done for us!

I delight greatly in the LORD;
my soul rejoices in my God.
For he has clothed me with garments of salvation
and arrayed me in a robe of righteousness,
as a bridegroom adorns his head like a priest,and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.

Isaiah 61:10-11

Peter and Meredith

rejoicing in the Lord

the ring

California 2011

2011-08-06T21:51:00.005-05:00

Grandma telling us about how it used to be.

Well, folks, we actually are still here! Having an absence of posts for about, oh let's see . . . three months, we've actually got to posting again!

Oh dear, well I wanted to post some from our amazing trip to the west that we went on a month back or so. Our first stop (once we drove for three days) was to visit our grandparents in the Bay area of California. We had a wonderful day visiting with them, hearing all sorts of stories from when my grandparents were young. (NOTE: if you have grandparents that are still alive, ask them about their growing up times and what things were like then. They are the closest you can get to history back then and what was really going on, even more than any book. Now is the best time to ask them.)

Lydia playing for Grandma B.

Dad and Grandma.

Listening to stories.

Joely at In-N-Out, one of our favorite place to go with Grandma and Grandpa B.

Something changed here . . .

Not going to promise anything, but we'll see if we can keep up to date a little better here on the Serven Clan. :)

Free Bluegrass Concert: the Wintons

2011-05-20T15:09:00.004-05:00

You are invited to a free bluegrass concert . . . tonight @ 7:00 (sorry for the late notice :)

Please join us at a bluegrass concert preformed by the Winton family!

Who: The Winton family

When: 7:00 p.m. Friday, May 20th 2011

Where: St. Stephen United Methodist Church in Troy, Mo

Hope to see you tonight!

Bella is growing up!

2011-04-29T21:08:00.001-05:00

Bella turns 1 year old!

Bella LOVES helping Mama wash the dishes.

She also enjoys helping Lydia with her cross stitch . . . :)

Two years ago . . .

2011-04-18T22:28:00.003-05:00

. . . Jon Ten Dolle and Elizabeth Serven were married!

Rejoicing in God's great blessing!

Bliss . . .

Springtime hits the ServenClan

2011-03-31T21:18:00.003-05:00

Apple blossoms.

I'm not exactly sure what kind of tree this is, but the fuchsia color is so striking.

Joely-boy.

Really tiny willow leaves. Right now if you look at our tree there is a sort of green haze all over it which is really pretty.

Pansy-posies.

Liberty Day 2011

2011-03-29T22:26:00.006-05:00

Mr. Joe Morecraft speaking at the Liberty Day celebration.

This last week we headed our van northward for the 13th annual Liberty Day Celebration, hosted in Medinah, IL. The speakers this year were Mr. Phil Kayser and Dr. Joe Morecraft. Music was provided for the event by Charlie Zahm and The Western Plains Fife and Drum Corps. We enjoyed hearing lectures on issues of liberty, natural law vs. biblical law, the French Revolution, War Between the States, and Christian living.

Remember to mark your calendars for Liberty Day 2012 (usually in mid-March) to hear Christ honoring teaching and enjoy encouraging fellowship!

Bella's first conference . . . she loved it! :) We were so glad Jon, Beth and Bella were able to join us for the second day of the conference.

Two fun friends.

Mr. Erber tells an inspiring story about the War for Independence.

A new addition this year was the Liberty Choir.

Charlie Zahm and Tad Marks.

Bella learning how to clap!

Patrick Henry.

The Western Plains Fife and Drum Corps.

Bella interfacing with technology.

Men's Advance 2011-Sessions

2011-03-07T21:47:00.000-06:00

Marcus Serven speaking on perseverance.

We would encourage you to stop by SermonAudio to hear all the presentations that were given at the 2011 Men's Advance. The lectures are by Pastor Marcus Serven and Pastor Derek Carlsen. Enjoy all six of the talks as well as the sermon given by Mr. Carlsen on the Sunday following the Advance.

Master minding the games - Jon TenDolle.

Our staff for Genevan Foundation. :)

Mens Advance Update

2011-03-02T21:08:00.008-06:00

Activities with Jon TenDolle.

What a glorious conference was held at the 2011 Mens Advance! Thank you to all who helped in participating in so many ways to make this conference a reality!

Stay tune for a more in depth review and report on the Advance, to be posted in the short future.

Men singing together at the 2011 Mens Advance.

Boot-stomping concert with the Heirs of Baird.

Latest Culinary Adventure

2011-02-24T11:12:00.004-06:00

Chocolate Cheesecake.

This was my first attempt to make Chocolate Cheesecake! I thought it turned out pretty well, but my next attempt will have a few alterations. :) The recipe I used was from a William Sonoma recipe book someone had posted online.

Crum-dilli-umptous!

Men's Advance Registration ends Sunday, the 20th!

2011-02-18T21:16:00.013-06:00

“Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” Proverbs 27:17

Registration for Men's Leadership Advance ends Sunday night!

A waiting list will be open to registrations that are sent in past the 20th. Click here to register online to the Advance.

Our main theme for the 2011 Men's Advance is “Perseverance”. We will consider three crucial areas of life where godly men must persevere in truth and holiness: in your life, in your home, and in God’s kingdom work. Any man is welcome to attend who seeks to provide leadership within his own home, or who aspires to greater leadership within his own local Church. Also, any son may attend along with his Father or his church leaders.

Pastor Marcus Serven exhorting men in godly leadership.

Men worshiping together.

Fellowship among likeminded servants of Christ.

A Tasty Treat

2011-02-16T20:03:00.008-06:00

Rolling out the dough . . .

Happy Valentines Day!

I decided to try out one of my favorite cookie recipes with a new idea in mind. The result: a fun and yummy experiment! Check out both these sites for my inspiration.

It all starts with a recipe . . .

. . . and a few tools.

Simple.

Yes, its still winter in Missouri, but inside . . .

We end up not having the right size cookie cutter, so I cut them out by hand. It worked, but took a little bit longer.

Awaiting the jam . . .

Next, I used my small cookie cutter to cut the shape in the middle.

Then, a dollop of strawberry jam, followed by crimping the edges with a fork. Into the oven . . .

Viola!

"The Knave of hearts, he stole some tarts . . ."

Cooling.

Balancing act.

Little guys.

Tied up with a bow!

Free concert at Men's Leadership Advance 2011

2011-02-08T21:09:00.009-06:00

Performing at the 2009 Men's Advance, the Heirs of Baird are back to perform in concert at the closing of the Men's Advance.

You are invited to attend a free concert . . .

Featuring: The Lautencschlager family known as the Heirs of Baird

When: Febuary 26th, 2011, Saturday evening 7:00-8:30

Where: St. Stephen United Methodist Church, Troy, MO

Descended from an American patriot named Baird -- Zach and Amy, Daniel, Katie, and Shonny Lautenschlager celebrate a culture of liberty and family with their music. Their full early American sound includes twin fiddles, flat-pick guitar, banjo, upright bowed bass, hammered dulcimer, concertina, penny whistle, and Celtic harp. A family dinner and the Americana Folk Concert on Saturday evening will round out the end of the Men's Leadership Advance sponsored by Covenant Family Church.

The Heirs of Baird leading music at the 2009 Men's Advance.

The Orange Blossom Special!

Ten Days of Feasting: Wrapping it up

2011-02-02T20:24:00.007-06:00

Reading stories Christmas morning.

Well, the last post has come on the Ten Days of Feasting. Not quite ten posts, but you get an idea of what our time was like together! Enjoy the pictures from Christmas and the wrapping up of the Ten Days.

Bella's first Christmas.

Blueberry hat for a baby.

J&B TenDolle.

Hats.

Dad reading from the family Bible.

Christmas breakfast ~ Yogurt parfaits.

Food for thought.

Banana-grams.

"Hey" -- Bella's new favorite word.

All tuckered out.

Gifts for a Nana.

Smiles.

S&R Loomis.

Bella's new hat, crocheted by Auntie Becka.

Me and Bella.

Table setting.

Aunt Lydia.

Nana.

Mommy and me in downtown St. Charles.

Tall.

Brothers building a catapult.

Andrew is 12 years old!

Ben and co.

Zooming into 2011 . . .

Thanks to PeterServen photography for many of these shots.

Ten Days of Feasting: Christmas Eve

2011-01-31T21:15:00.005-06:00

Bella!

Sweetness.

Uncle Nathan and niece.

Fun, fun, fun.

Landing.

Balancing . . .

Joely!

Cranberry Ginger pie.

A new Christmas tradition.

Enchiladas!

Rebecca and Joely mount the star.

Ten Days of Feasting: The Dance

2011-01-24T06:15:00.007-06:00

The calling couple.

We figured that since we had a English Country dance caller who had come all the way from California staying in our very own house, that we should have a dance. They were happy to oblige, so the thing was done!

S&R Loomis.

Partners.

A colliding of feet.

Can I dance too, Daddy?

Smiles and Grins

Crum-dilly-umtius!

Can some one dance with me too!

The grin.

A sweet smile.

Up to something . . .

Pure joy.

Excitement.

My partner.

Brothers and pals.

Smiler.

"Well, okay . . .

. . . you can take my picture."

I'm ready to go home now!

Ten Days of Feasting: Decorating

2011-01-24T06:04:00.001-06:00

How many ornaments do we really need up there?

Ten Days of Feasting: Day 1

2011-01-15T21:38:00.006-06:00

Drewster.

The Ten Days of feasting ~ what an amazing time of celebrating we had! All of the Serven Clan was able to be home together for a joyous couple of weeks.

So many thing come to mind ~ lots of cooking, snow ball fights, sledding, cookie baking (and eating :), talking, laughing, playing Chinese checkers, a talent night, fireworks (!), fun food, playing with an adorable niece, walking in Old Town St. Charles, hot chocolate, celebrating Christ's birth, picture taking, smiling, gingerbread house contest, and so many more.

So this will be the first of many post on our amazing days together!

Day One: Celebrating Rebecca's birthday and Hanging o' the Greens

Picking the perfect tree out of the . . . 15 they had left. We were a little late this year. : /

Siblings.

Steven . . .

This one should work!

Sprint.

Notice Rebecca opted out of tying the Christmas tree on top of our van this year . . . what!

It's the first of . . . 4 birthdays!

Birthday dinner.

Christmas tree lighting team.

Joely!

Fun presents.

Chocolate Orange Tort.

It's fun having a sister home again . . .

2011 Men's Advance Registration Now Open!

2011-01-05T21:20:00.007-06:00

Men's Advance 2008 - Fellowship

Our main theme for 2011 is “Perseverance”. We will consider three crucial areas of life where godly men must persevere in truth and holiness: in your life, in your home, and in God’s kingdom work. Any man is welcome to attend who seeks to provide leadership within his own home, or who aspires to greater leadership within his own local Church. Also, any son may attend along with his Father or his church leaders.

Click here for more information and registration for the Advance!

2010 Men's Advance - Games lead by Jon TenDolle

. . . Leave a comment if your coming!

2011 Men's Advance

2011-01-04T16:10:00.013-06:00

2009 Men's Advance - Speaker Kevin Swanson

Please join us here in the St. Louis area for the Men’s Leadership Advance scheduled for February 25-26th, 2011.

2009 Men's Advance - discussion groups

Our main theme for 2011 is “Perseverance”. We will consider three crucial areas of life where godly men must persevere in truth and holiness: in your life, in your home, and in God’s kingdom work.

2008 Men's Advance - Listening to godly teaching

Besides six speaking sessions, we will provide for small group discussions, four delicious meals, encouraging Christian fellowship, and some very fun activities.

2009 Men's Advance - Lautenschlager family preforms

Following the dinner we will enjoy a heart-warming concert given by the talented Lautenschlager family from North Dakota (7-8:30 PM). It’s a free concert for the entire family!

2008 Men's Advance - Speaker Marcus Serven

We are blessed to have two excellent speakers this year both of whom are faithful husbands, mature elders, and home-schooling fathers:

–Dr. Derek Carlsen is the Pastor of Covenant Reformed Church in Elk Grove, Illinois.

–Rev. Marcus Serven is the Pastor of Covenant Family Church in Troy, Missouri.

Stay tuned for updates regarding online registration and more specifics on the Advance.

Christmas time is here . . .

2010-12-29T22:45:00.005-06:00

'' Joy to the World , the Lord is come!
Let earth receive her King;
Let every heart prepare Him room,
And Heaven and nature sing,
And Heaven and nature sing,
And Heaven, and Heaven, and nature sing.

Joy to the World, the Savior reigns!
Let men their songs employ;
While fields and floods, rocks, hills and plains
Repeat the sounding joy,
Repeat the sounding joy,
Repeat, repeat, the sounding joy.

No more let sins and sorrows grow,
Nor thorns infest the ground;
He comes to make His blessings flow
Far as the curse is found,
Far as the curse is found,
Far as, far as, the curse is found.

He rules the world with truth and grace,
And makes the nations prove
The glories of His righteousness,
And wonders of His love,
And wonders of His love,
And wonders, wonders, of His love. ''

by Isaac Watts

Rugelach!

2010-12-10T12:17:00.007-06:00

These cookies are absolutely scrumptious! They are called Rugelach . . . yeah, the first time I saw that it took me a minute to pronounce it. I've heard it said with a hard russian "ck" sound . How ever you say it, they are so delicious! I had them for the first time last year, and was hooked. I had never heard of them before, but when I made them for a event a few weeks back many people said they were Polish, Russian, or Jewish.

Here are some photos from making them and also the recipe! We have had these cookies in many different flavors. Just make the dough as the recipe says, them add your own filling, such as jam, nuts, dried fruit, etc. Then spread/sprinkle your filling variation on the cookie dough and complete as the recipe says.

Rugelach will be a wonderful addition to your Christmas cookie repertoire!

: )

Here is the *cookie recipe! Enjoy . . .

*If any of you have never used William Sonoma recipes before, definitely check them out. We have found some really great ones on there.

Chef note: only use great tools if possible when cooking! Above is a good example of one! : )

Filling of choice - Blueberry jam.

We also sprinkled chopped almonds over the filling.

Rolling them together is probably the only tricky part, making sure the filling stays in.

Crescent cookies.

Into the oven.

Out of the oven.

Cooling . . .

I hope you enjoy these as much as we have!

Fall in Missouri

2010-12-02T20:06:00.001-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving from our home to yours!

2010-11-27T22:12:00.004-06:00

Thanking God together.

Table decor.

This is my favorite one! : )

. . . more pics to follow!

Can't wait to see my little niece!

2010-11-22T19:22:00.007-06:00

A sweetheart of a niece and sister!

Tut, tut, it looks like rain!

Six mouths meets 92 years.

A few more I couldn't resist . . . : )

Niece and Auntie.

Grandpa Serven and Bella.

Sweetness.

Four generations, praise the Lord!

Photography courtesy of Peter Serven.

Happy Birthday to Sarah!

2010-11-19T12:30:00.008-06:00

A Bernina sewing machine!!

Heres how it works

This is one amazingly fun piece of engineering! : )

This sewing machine does over 30 different decorative stitches!

Thank you so much Dad, Mom, and siblings for this useful and fun gift!

~Sarah

*Photo credites go to Peter Serven photography

Bringe family Send Off

2010-11-16T20:45:00.004-06:00

We'll miss your ever present smiles!

The H. family shares fun facts about the new home for the Bringes.

The audience.

The S. family wrote a few precious poems for their dear friends.

We'll miss you all, Bringe family!

Listening to the new Jonathan Park*

2010-11-09T17:38:00.008-06:00

Manta Rays are amazing creatures!

* If you have listened to Jonathan Park: The Voyage Beyond you will know why we found this interesting! : )

365 days ago . . .

2010-11-06T06:56:00.006-05:00

. . . Steven and Rebecca were married!!

Walking down the isle.

Almost.

And now, for the very first time . . . Mr. and Mrs. Steven Loomis!

We love you Steven and Rebecca!

~Serven Clan

*See more pictures here and here.

A New Recipe!

2010-10-16T20:39:00.006-05:00

Chicken pot pie.

Yummyness!

This last week we tried out a new and delicious recipe! Thought we'd share it with you all. This is an excellent recipe for a cool fall day! We loved the crust on this, it was so flaky!

Chicken Pot Pie with Biscuit Crust

Ingredients:

Servings: 6-7

1/3 cup butter

1/3 cup flour

1/3 cup chopped onion

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper

1 3/4 cups chicken broth (or chicken bullion)

2/3 cup milk

3 cups cooked chicken, cut into small pieces or cubes

1 cup frozen peas

1 cup carrots, cut in rounds

Crust

(We only made one crust for the top when we tried it. Only problem was you could not really serve it as you would a piece of pie, because there was no bottom to it! : )

1 cup flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons butter
1/3 cup milk

Directions:

Prep Time: 20 mins

Total Time: 50 mins

Crust: This is for just a top crust.

It was a smashing hit! : )

. . . sorry for the out-of-lineness of this post. Our computer is being finicky.

Wisconsin pics

2010-09-29T21:44:00.004-05:00

My photo of the week . . .

Hanging on the line.

The cheerful doer of the deed . . . Andy!

Art Hill Concert!

2010-09-23T17:01:00.005-05:00

One absolutely scrumptious chocolate mocha birthday cake!

Twenty-seven friends enjoying fellowship and listening to the St. Louis Symphony.

Three family members.

One cute kid . . . hands down. : )

Hundreds of fantastic fireworks!!

Bella's adorable Snugers hat!

2010-09-17T14:11:00.006-05:00

Me and my adorable niece!

*****

Imagine yourself as a waitress at the American Club Hotel in Kohler, WI ...

...The tea room seemed unusually crowded today as I wearily pushed the tea trolley across the floor. The day had been a long one. I sighed thinking of the three hours left of my shift.Why couldn't I be one of those sitting in the cushy chair drinking hot, steamy, tea and enjoying pleasant conversation? Oh well, I said to myself, at least I can watch everyone else enjoying themselves.

I scanned the assembled guests, so comfortably settled around the room. Oh just the usual, I thought. It seemed like this room was the favored place for groups of two or three grandmotherly ladies to spend the afternoons. Also a small huddle of older men gathered around the mantel shelf, talking, by the looks of it, on the subject of golf or other such topics.

The flutter of pink and the sound of a baby cooing caught my attention. Who was this?? It appeared to be a family group (as was obvious by their resemblance to each other), with a precious little baby in their midst! And oh my goodness, what an adorable hat she was wearing! The hat seemed to almost be swallowed up by the large beautiful pink and grey flower on the side of it. Edged most stylishly with pink ruffled stitching, I couldn't resist gaping at it. Where ever did they get such an adorable hat, I wondered to myself?

*****

Question no further, for this hat was a gift to Bella from a sweet family, the owners of the baby hat company Snugers! Thank you so much! Jon and Beth (and I'm sure Bella : ) love it and thank you all so much for your thoughtfulness!

And you can have your own adorable May Flower Snugers hat by clicking here, and make sure to check out the gorgeous and creative array of other baby hats and headbands!

Mama and Bella after taking tea.

Brothers

2010-09-13T18:04:00.002-05:00

Nathan and Joel playing the game "War".

"Hey guys, look up here!"

Hey, why's the nurf gun pointed at Joel! : )

As someone I know says . . ." fun times". : )

Family Camp #3

2010-09-13T17:08:00.006-05:00

Camp

Mr. Swanson, Dad, and Andrew.

The campfires were so fun, especially the s'mores!

Family Olympics

The sponge-and-bucket race . . . we won!! : )

Go, go, go!

What it takes to play the "pass-the-hula-hoop-around-the-circle" game.
: )

The winning teams of the hula-hoop contest compete.

The 6-and-under race!!!

Finish line.

" And the winner is . . ."

Family Camp #2

2010-09-08T17:19:00.002-05:00

Only real chefs use cast iron when they go camping! : )

The pavilion where all the sessions were held, and where we had lunch. : )

Classic kids.

Family Camp 2010!

2010-08-31T19:40:00.003-05:00

Nathan Clark George opened the first session of Family Camp with " Now Unto Jehovah."

Late last night we arrived back home from Colorado!! We had a wonderful time and were all encouraged from the week spent with so much fellowship. The speakers for the camp were all the elders from Reformation Church. Nathan Clark George lead the worship, and also performed a concert on Friday night!

The following pictures are from Wednesday, the first day of Family Camp.

More to follow . . .

Mr. Davidson was camp coordinator for the weekend.

The Roaches sang a fun rendition of " The other day, I saw a bear."

Just in case you forgot how cute Bella is . . .

2010-08-23T22:29:00.001-05:00

Bella, after her first swim in the pool!

Colorado here we come!

2010-08-17T11:30:00.001-05:00

Getting ready for Family Camp in Denver, CO!

Andrew and Joel testing out the tents. : )

Practice makes perfect!

2010-08-12T15:42:00.002-05:00

Try it again, Gracie!

Isa playing "French Folk Song."

Guess who's playing!

Pictures by Isabella

Visit with Nana and Grandpa

2010-08-12T15:41:00.008-05:00

Joel and Nana making scrumptious Sugar Puffs! : )

Okay, so eventually we are going to start posting about our life more recently, but I have to finish the trip!! : ) So here are some more pictures from visiting our grandparents!

Andrew takes a try . . .

Hey . . . I think I might just try on of these while I'm smiling for the camera!

Grandpa Ellis - 92, and still making pancakes!

We visited our great aunt and uncles, and great grandparents graves in North Hollywood.

Beautiful flowers from our Nana's garden.

We also went to the Ronald Reagan Library!

There was a really neat display of the White House in 1'' scale. It was amazing how detailed it was!

The back of the White House.

Andrew and Grandpa Ellis at the Reagan Library.

Joely-boy.

Part of the Berlin Wall.

Grandpa Ellis and Nana.

We're home, but have to tell you about our amazing trip!

2010-07-24T22:30:00.010-05:00

On our merry way!

While visiting our Nana and Grandpa in North Hollywood, we went to the world famous (We think it is anyway : ) Hollywood Bowl!! It was a really fun concert complete with fireworks! We rode the bus out to the Bowl, so we didn't have to find a parking spot along with the thousands of other people who were there!

The music varied from classical to soundtracks, patriotic, country, and swing! But the fireworks were the highlight of the evening!

We were so glad the escalator was working this time! The last time we were here, we had to walk up the thousands of steps along with everyone else!

Lyd and Drew.

The Hollywood Bowl.

The crowd.

Joely-boy.

Our group.

The famous (or infamous) sign.

The concert.

Get ready, get set . . .

BOOM!!!

The grand finale!

On the open road

2010-07-03T19:52:00.008-05:00

The best way to travel! : )

Friends on our way.

Our first top was Castlerock, Colarado.We had a wonderful time visiting with the Roach family!

Chatting.

Ready for an expedition!

Hiking down to the river.

This is fun, just make sure to not collide with the crawdads! :D

Stopping in wolf creek canyon. It was so beautiful!

The grand vista.

By a waterfall.

At the Skeen family's home, in New Mexico. We had such fun with you guys!!

Tired kids.

The master driver.

Definitely different topography then Missouri!

Monument valley.

The best thing about In-N-Out, Stickers!

Chocolate milkshake!

Delicious burgers.

111˚out side!!

Breakfast w/ Nana and Grandpa.

Seeing Grandpa's garden.

Andrew picking grapefruits!

Adventures along our way!

2010-07-03T13:03:00.003-05:00

You know your in California when . . . there are lemons growing in your Nana's back yard! : )

Made it to Colorado!

2010-06-29T11:38:00.004-05:00

Last night we got to the Roach's home! Yay! 13 hours. Wow, long drive. We're planing on a hike and also a time to play in a stream! Fun stuff!

~Sarah

Headed to the West!!

2010-06-28T07:46:00.004-05:00

In a few moments we are going to jump in our van and take off into the blue! We will be back home in about 3 weeks!!! We have a great trip planed a head of us through Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, and of course, California! :D Dad, Peter, and Ben will be holding down the fort while we are gone. We'll miss having you with us!

Until next time!

Ooh La La!

2010-06-16T15:56:00.002-05:00

We found this sign when S&R were here and had to take a picture! :D

Ben and Tiffany's Wedding!

2010-06-10T17:14:00.013-05:00

The Dress.

Bros.

The church starting to fill up . . .

The string quartet.

Mothers lighting the candles.

Jessica, sister of the Bride.

Ring-bear William, and co.

Ben helped the Littmann family with the video of the wedding.

A few flower girls.

Here comes the . . .

. . . no, not yet! This bagpiper played a beautiful piece right before the entrance of the Bride.

Father and Bride.

Smiles.

Together.

The rings.

Mr. and Mrs. Stanford sang a wonderful piece accompanied by the wedding party.

Watching.

The first Kiss.

Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin Hector.

The happy couple!

Flower girls and ring-bear.

Off to the reception!

Beautiful place setting.

Dads talking.

Yummy chips!

The head table.

A sweetie and some sweets!

Cupcakes.

Table setting.

Delicious cilantro dip.

Drew.

They're finally here!

Ben lead the dancing and did a wonderful job! The Winton family's bluegrass band played live for the dancing - such fun!

Friends-Jessica, Renee, and Lydia.

The Dance Coordinator!

Guest book table.

Getting ready to leave.

Bride and co.

Sisters and friends.

Bubbles!

Off they go!

The Spring Recital of CFC: Music

2010-06-10T11:54:00.009-05:00

The traditional group picture.

Recently we had our Church recital. There were many different talents, such as piano, string and wind instruments as well as vocal. Here are some pictures.

The Crowd.

Peter gets back from Europe tonight!!

2010-05-29T11:59:00.005-05:00

Here's Peter right before he left for Europe, headed for adventure!

Bella's baptism

2010-05-28T13:47:00.007-05:00

Jon, Beth, and Bella.

Last week we drove up to visit J&B and Bella, stopping on the way to attend Ben and Tiffany's wedding (post to follow soon). The main reason we went up has to be at Bella's baptism, and visit with J&B. While there we held an adorable baby, worked it J&B's garden, built raised garden beds, played on the dunes of Lake Michigan, kayaked in a pond, visited with siblings (Nathan came up with us for the baptism and a few days extra) and had a capital time all around!

So here are some pictures from Bella's baptism and also of Bella in my Great Grandfathers baptismal gown. Rebecca sewed the gown Bella wore for the real thing from the same fabric as Beth's wedding dress. It is so beautiful! Dad got to baptize Bella, which was very special for Grandpa Serven!

So with out further ado, here are some pictures!

Grandpa/pastor and granddaughter.

A new covenant child.

Mama & baby.

Sleepy Bella.

The TenDolle family.

Getting ready for the shoot.

Sweetness.

Thoughtful.

Classic baby.

Yawn.

Good job, Bella!

The 100+ year old gown.

By Bella (kind of : )

2010-05-27T18:14:00.005-05:00

"Hi!"

"My name's Bella,"

"this is my uncle Joel . . .

and here's one of my other uncles Drew, I have 10, BTW."

"I sleep ALOT, and my aunt really likes taking pictures of me while I'm asleep."

"here's one . . .

and another . . ."

"no, don't wake me up, autographs later."

"Uncle Joel gets to hold me a lot."

Joel-" I wonder what she's thinking about?"

. . . ZzZz

"sometimes I even kind of smile!''

"Now Mama's getting a picture. I love her sooo much."

"Bye for now!"

Birthday Girl!

2010-05-03T22:40:00.001-05:00

Today is Bella's Two-week-old birthday!!

My Reflections on Becoming a Grandfather

2010-04-27T15:36:00.010-05:00

By Pastor Marcus J. Serven

Beth and Isabella happy to be home

“Grandchildren are the crown of the aged, and the glory of children is their fathers.” Proverbs 17:6

Mention the name “Grandpa Serven” and I automatically think of my own paternal grandfather—Ralph J. Serven (1902-1999). Now, however, I must start thinking differently because I have become a grandfather myself over this past week and already people are teasingly referring to me as “Grandpa Serven”. Yes it is true, on Monday, April 19th, my married daughter Elizabeth gave birth to a big strapping healthy baby girl—Isabella Joy! Both Jon and Elizabeth certainly have a lot to celebrate in being blessed with their first child. But, I would humbly argue that I have more to celebrate in that I have become a grandfather. Why? Because God has blessed me (and blessed my wife Cheryl too for that matter) in some very significant ways: (1) with length of years, (2) with fruitful offspring, and (3) with an ongoing legacy of generational faithfulness. Consider this encouraging promise from the Lord,

“But the steadfast love of the LORD is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear him, and his righteousness to children’s children, to those who keep his covenant and remember to do his commandments.” Psalm 103:17-18

Aunt Sarah

I hope, in time, that many more grandchildren will be added to the Serven Clan, and that these descendants will live by the same purposes that Cheryl and I have established in our immediate family—Glorify God, Serve Others, and Advance Christ’s Kingdom. By faith, then, I am resolving to take-up my new identity of being a grandfather with happiness and zeal. God has blessed me, how can I do otherwise?

Uncle Andrew

Resurrection Day

2010-04-14T16:47:00.006-05:00

The empty tomb.

bulbs.

Finding the perfect spot.

Sisters, minus one, plus one! : ) We miss you Rebecca!

The Sisters Three.

buddies.

The delicious spread!

french silk chocolate pie!

Mrs H.'s famous apple pie recipe, made by A. H.!

Blue ribbon pie.

Baby Shower

2010-04-10T21:20:00.005-05:00

blooming.

Last Saturday we celebrated Beth and Baby Dear with a beautiful shower hosted by the S. family! Here are some pictures from the lovely day!

welcoming.

chatting.

visiting.

celebrating.

feasting.

inviting.

laughing.

story-telling.

opening . . .

Lyd's handcrafting!

smiling.

watching.

posing.

It's Official!!!!!!!

2010-04-07T13:09:00.003-05:00

Click here to read about it.

Chef Ben

2010-04-05T21:21:00.002-05:00

One of the most desired tools of the kitchen, Ben's knife.

On Thursday evening Ben made us a wonderful lamb roast! We all agreed that it was a winner recipe!

deboning.

Happy Chef.

After being on the grill more picture are taken on a another type of camera . . .

The finished product!

Snowman in Spring

2010-04-02T11:28:00.004-05:00

We discovered this in our kitchen one day . . .

"Johnny-Apple-Seed the stainless steal man".

Looks like somebody needs to dry the dishes!

Book Review:The Swiss Family Robinson

2010-03-30T11:18:00.005-05:00

I have just finished reading The Swiss Family Robinson by Johann Wyss (a great read-aloud.). I am sure some of you who are reading this have either read the book or have watched the movie, but I am here to encourage those who have not read the book to do so. The Swiss Family Robinson is about a family who is shipwrecked on an uninhabited island with much vegetation. The Robinsons never realize how much they have become attached to the island until a ship offers to take them back to Europe.Will they leave the island that has been their home for so long? This story also has many biblical characteristics and Bible quotations,such as stewardship, dominion, keeping the Sabbath, etc. I would rate this as a great piece of Christian literature that should be in every family's library.

Lydia

P.S. B.T.W. make sure you read the unabridged version.

Liberty Day 2010!

2010-03-29T21:07:00.006-05:00

We were so surprised by snow the morning of Liberty Day!

On the twentieth we went to Liberty Day in Medinah Illinois. We had a wonderful time and here are some pictures from the event!

The Heirs of Baird.

Dr. Jehle.

There were about 900 people at the celebration.

Andrew manning our table.

Doing business.

The vendor hall.

Some of the S. ladies!

Lyd and Gracie.

It was a packed house!

Patrick Henry.

Men’s Advance (2010): Pastor Serven’s Report

2010-03-25T15:04:00.005-05:00

The Men’s Advance is now over—and the Lord certainly blessed us with a very fine turn-out of one hundred and six men and boys! At the Saturday evening concert we were joined by many visiting wives, daughters, and younger children, plus Christians from nearby churches, to boost the attendance to over two hundred people.

Singing Servens

Singing Georges

Nathan Clark George

Nathan Clark George gave a stirring performance on guitar and harmonica. He tugged on our heart-strings with his musical renditions of many soul-searching Psalms, and had us laughing uproariously with his “Chicken Hawk” song.

Bill Potter

Bill Potter—a long-time Presbyterian Elder, Historian, and home-schooling father—was our featured speaker this year, and I thoroughly enjoyed working with him! Our seven talks on “The Battles that Men Fight” will be posted on the website of Covenant Family Church over the next few weeks. Feel free to download these talks. I truly hope you will benefit from the biblical insights, delight in the stories, and grow deeper in your walk with Jesus Christ. It is good to know that men are not alone in the battles that we face! God is with us, and so are our brethren in Christ.

Pastor Marcus Serven

The food was—once again—quite excellent; Elisabeth TenDolle coordinated this effort along with the help of many volunteer kitchen assistants.

Dodge Ball

Balloon Towers

Jon TenDolle led the activities—and the only complaint I heard (from some of the younger boys) is that many of the Father’s sat out this year and watched their sons have a great time. Registration went smoothly this year thanks to Jeff Hamman (one of our newly licensed Deacons), and the Master of Ceremony’s job was capably carried out by Marc Houghton (also a licensed deacon). Thanks to Covenant Seminary’s Bookstore, the book table was simply HUGE! It not only attracted a lot of interest, but a goodly number of books were sold to hungry bibliophiles. Thanks go to Joe Saffa and his boys for overseeing that effort.

There are others to thank—Mike Wolf for coordinating the set-up and take-down; Rebekah and Hannah Zes and Melissa Wolf for buying most of the food and supplies; Steven and Rebecca Loomis for helping out with publicity; plus Neal Bringe (licensed deacon and Treasurer) who handled the finances and Lida Bringe who wonderfully persevered through the always “quagmire-like” arrangements for housing. What a team!

The Newlyweds : )

Fun with Friends

2010-03-25T11:52:00.012-05:00

Walking to the penguin cave, it was sooo cold inside!

Last week our friend Megan came for a visit! Here are some pictures from going to the zoo and the St. Louis Arch. Enjoy!

Good catch!

Joel and Lyd.

a giraffe.

The most colorful tail I've ever seen, . . .

the peacock.

Camels on the lose.

Walking up to the Arch.

Gateway to the west.

Megan, Lyd, Drew, and Mom.

The most fun thing to do at the Arch!

Lyd rides again!

On your mark . . .get set . . .

Go! . . .And they're off!

Us.

The emblem of St. Louis.

We had so much fun with you here, Megan!

Live from the Field

2010-02-26T22:29:00.004-06:00

The Men's Advance is in full swing, with a great turnout of about 110 men and boys. Some excellent sessions have already been had, and all are looking forward to tomorrow!

Pastor McDonald of Providence Church in Peoria, IL, has kindly offered to blog live from the conference. Here is a link to his blog where you can follow the conference live.

Hurray for our new Deacons!

2010-02-20T10:05:00.001-06:00

Find out about our new Deacons here.

Free Concert with Nathan Clark George

2010-02-15T09:55:00.005-06:00

Dear Friends,

Join us on the 27th of February for a free concert by Nathan Clark George!

The Concert will be held at St. Stephen's Methodist Church, in Troy, MO, and will begin at 7:00.

See you there!

Get the discount while you can!

2010-01-27T21:06:00.008-06:00

Save the date for the 2010 Men's Advance!

Join Historian Bill Potter and Pastor Marcus Serven this February 26-27 to be inspired as you labor in the battles that men fight!

Bring your sons for the weekend long "advance", then join in as a whole family on Saturday night for Nathan Clark George's acoustical guitar concert.

Please contact us for a brochure, registration form, or with any questions.

There's just a little more than one week left to get the discount rate of $60! The price will jump to $75 after the 7th. Have your registration postmarked by 2-6-10 and the discount will be honored.

Held in Troy, Missouri at the facilities of St. Stephen's Methodist Church.

View photos from the 2009, 2008, and 2007 Men's Advances.