Recent weeks have been busy ones at the Balsley household. But they have been very enjoyable ones as well, because we have had opportunities to spend time with members of our family and our church family celebrating important events and occasions, and we have even managed to get in a little recreation from time to time. On the recreation side, we enjoyed exploring the Tin Mine Canyon Trail in nearby Corona – a surprising find in a generally dry region.


Jan and Caroleen peered into the tin mine for which the canyon trail was named, though entry was prevented to preserve wildlife habitat (and preserve human life, no doubt, in view of the danger of mine collapse).

Easter if always a wonderful time of celebration for those who know the crucified and risen Christ! We also enjoyed a visit on Easter Sunday from Stephen, Meagan and Ryan in the early afternoon – prior to their visit with Meagan’s parents as well.

Ryan is about as cute as they come, and has recently taken to walking, so the pace is picking up!

The Saturday following Easter our church participated in the annual Faces of Fullerton event in downtown Fullerton, where a variety of community organizations engage the community by offering some activity for families and their children.

Our church’s activity was the opportunity to create wire sculptures – something both the children and adults seemed to enjoy doing.

Later the same day we drove to Foothills Ranch to join with Meagan’s family in celebration of Ryan’s first birthday. Ryan’s two grandmothers brought him from his room where an intended nap wasn’t happening.

Ryan was soon well-dressed for the auspicious occasion.

And what would a birthday celebration be without a birthday cake?

As you can tell, we have been enjoying some busy but happy times with family and friends – always grateful for the Lord’s goodness to us in so many ways.