Bathtime

I arrived home safely from California on Sunday morning. The trip was wonderfully profitable in many ways. The Lord blessed. As is the nightly ritual, Jocelyn was giving Katie a bath and Abbie was sitting on her potty. It is good to be home with my family! Thanks for tuning in today!

ST

Missing My Girls

Any time I am traveling, I miss my wonderful family. I am grateful for the way God has blessed me with a beautiful wife and two beautiful daughters. A couple of days before I left for California, I took a few photos of them.

ST

Never Forget September 11, 2001

It was six years ago today when the crisp, quiet September morning erupted into the most tragic day in American history. On September, 11, 2001, our beloved nation came under attack by those who despise our inherent freedom given to us by our Creator God.

Where were you on the morning you heard the terrible news? Do you remember those feelings? Do you remember scene as the mighty symbols of the United States came crashing to the ground in smoking rubble?

I, for one, remember! I will never forget the tears which streamed down my face thinking of the many men and women who lost their lives and were trapped in the destruction. I will never forget the anger and emotion which welled up within my soul!
What has happened to American patriotism and the love of country? What has happened to the hand over one's heart as the Pledge of Allegiance stirs that cold chill in the stomach? What has happened to choking back tears while singing the national anthem? What has happened to the respect of our soldiers who have served in both conflicts past and present and, out of a grateful heart, honor them for their sacrifice of life and limb and teach others to love our flag and the truth for which she stands. What has happened to men who will stand without compromise against tyranny like our brave forefathers who stood against the British tyranny?

The purpose of this post is to declare that the Troell family has not forgotten the atrocities which were committed on that day. We are passing to our children old-fashioned patriotism. We are teaching them to love our country and pray for our leaders. It is our desire to raise children who have a fierce love for both the Lord Jesus Christ and their wonderful United States of America.

I am grateful to be an American!

ST

P.S. -- Click on the photo above to download the desktop background for your personal usage.

Where in the World?

I was invited to Santa Clara California to spend the week with the wonderful people at North Valley Baptist Church. I arrived on Thursday, Sept. 6. I am here to photograph some ministries of the church as well as a special meeting. My sister, Jo teaches at the college and attends church. One of the benefits of being out here is being with her, not to mention the gorgeous weather. We have both been busy, but have enjoyed a few moments together. She even made me guacamole on Sunday night–awesome!

Saturday afternoon, we drove down to Santa Cruz beach. There was quite a bit of the carnival scene, but we managed to find a little boardwalk to stroll. We saw seals under the wharf and then went to grab a bite of Mexican food--a Troell favorite. Funny thing is, I have had some sort of Mexican food every day since I have been here in sunny California.

To Jocie, Abbie, and Katie –– I love you and am grateful for each of you! I am looking forward to coming home soon. I miss each one of you--you are the joy of my life!

ST



My beautiful sister, Jo


At the real boardwalk (no carnival rides!)


A kind passer-by offered to take our photo


The stern of a little fishing boat


Our view out the window at the Mexican restaurant

Uncle Jay, the Police Officer

Today, Elisabeth's (one of Stephen's four wonderful sisters) husband takes one of his final tests to become a Lewisville (TX) police officer. He will graduate from police academy on October 5. The road has been a long one, though it is not over yet. We are so excited for him and for his new opportunity to serve in the police department. Jay, your little nieces love you very much! Keep working hard!

ST

Abbie and the Cookies

There are few things in this world like my wife's chocolate chip cookies. She makes them so soft and moist! For Labor Day, Jocelyn made some cookies. I was working at my desk when out of the corner of my eye, I spied a grimy little hand tap my elbow. As I turned, I came face to face with a scary little monster with chocolate all over her cute face. She had gotten into the warm cookies and was truly enjoying them! Both hands were covered in the goo and her face was pretty well covered too! Of course, I had to turn the moment into a memory by grabbing the camera and snagging a couple of shots of the humorous event.

Thank you for tuning in today!

ST