The Balsley family in Brea has grown in recent weeks – by the addition of more Balsleys.  Dave and Jan’s son Stephen has been under-employed now for around two years  Recent job interviews could lead to work near Hollywood, so when the lease on his condo in south Orange County was up, Dave and Jan invited the family to live with them for the time being.  As a result the table is filled at dinner time.

Left to right:  Caroleen Suzuki, Meagan, Erin, Jan, Dave, Ryan & Stephen

Both the house and yard are full of activities on the days Jan is providing child-care for Ryan (almost 5) and Erin (almost 2) – a task she shares with the children’s other grandmother, Connie Seymour.  Ryan and Erin are growing and changing rapidly – as kids tend to do.

Occasional trips to nearby parks are always a highlight of any day – like a recent visit to nearby Craig Regional Park (about 1/2 mile from home).

Winter and spring rains have brought us a colorful display of flowers in Southern California this year – including these near our front door.

Jan discovered a good way to occupy the grand kids in some productive activity by enlisting them to help do some yard work on a sunny spring day.

There is seldom ever a dull moment at the Balsley house these days, but it was the psalmist’s wish for those who are blessed:  “may you see your children’s children” (Psalm 128:6).  And it was Solomon’s observation (Proverbs 17:6) that “Grandchildren are the crown of old men.”  So we are blessed and crowned!