MCC Sale

Last weekend we packed up our bags and made the annual trek up to Fresno to spend some time with family and friends and to attend the West Coast Mennonite Relief Sale. Before we were married, I introduced Michael to this yearly novelty and he didn't quite know what to make of it. "It's like a big fair, but without the rides," he would often say. There is a silent auction, live auction, food booths, Ten Thousand Villages store, a used book sale, and an art exhibition each year.

One of the quilts that was for sale

Catching up with my dearest friend Melinda

By far, one of the best parts is seeing people! Everywhere I turn there are people I know - people I went to school with, extended family, family friends, etc. It's fun to quickly catch up on every one's lives. It is fun also to browse through all the items for sale and being auctioned off. All the money that is earned during the weekend goes toward relief projects around the world. It always makes it easier to spend the money! We spotted lots of things we liked, but frankly, our little house is filling up quickly and we can't squeeze in too many more antiques. And there were thing we bid on, but we got outbid. We did leave with stack of used books, homemade cheese and some good food in our tummies! The homemade ice cream was delicious!

Smiles at the MCC Sale

After being there Friday night and Saturday morning and part of the afternoon we were worn out. No resting for us! Whenever we're back in Fresno we tend to fill up our schedules seeing people - it's always fun to see everybody. There is always time to sleep and get rested up when you get home, right?

We caught up with our friends Marlon and Julia.

We took a normal picture...

...and an "everyone-sympathize-with-Ann's-big-belly" picture!

We visited my grandparents and then went to see where my cousin is getting married in May. My little cousin is getting married! Michael will be their wedding photographer so we had to get an idea of the location. It was beautiful!

What a fun couple!

On Sunday we had the privilege of going to the church where my dad is a pastor. After church we went to lunch for Chinese food. I love my parents! Such special, wonderful people! I meant to take a picture with them, but somehow, eating the chow mien noodles distracted me from getting a picture with them!

And on the way home we stopped along the way to see my friend Kariss. We got to see her lovely home and visited with her for a bit. We loved your house, Kariss! And you too!

It was a terribly fun, but exhausting weekend. I took a three hour nap yesterday to help me recover! I thank God for wonderful family and friends - they make life all the more special!