HXP

Sydney and I were able to go to Guatemala for a humanitarian experience and help build the classrooms for a small school in Olintepeque, just outside of Quetzaltenango. It was a fantastic experience to see the area where my grandpa was from and share the country with my daughter. We both grew a lot spiritually and emotionally from our experiences there. I was able to strengthen and rekindle my relationship with the Savior in a way I haven't in a long time.  I felt deeply connected to the land and its people, and could sense God's love for them. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve in Guatemala. It was an experience I'll cherish forever. 

Hiawatha Trail with Abby

 While Sydney and Wynn went to FSY, Abby and I went camping for a few nights. We spent the day together in Courdalene Idaho, and then our friends from La Grande came up to meet us. The next day we went a biked the Hiawatha Trail. It is an old decommissioned railroad track that is 15 miles long. You get to go through 7 train tunnels and cross 5 bridges along the way. Its all downhill so thats nice too. Abby had a lot of fun visiting with her friend Stark and getting super muddy in the tunnels. It was so much fun :).

Family Reunion on Oregon Coast

 The Shinsel family has their biannual reunion on the Oregon Coast in Depoe Bay this summer. We didn't get much sunshine to enjoy the beach, but the kids still looked for seashells and creatures every day. We visited some tide pools, bought saltwater taffy, and went to a really cool glass-blowing studio where they created some pieces for us. The kids also spent a lot of time in the swim spas with their cousins. All in all, it was a good trip!