tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-73273977815792680282024-03-05T18:36:21.594-05:00Mom of ElevenMom of Elevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393551236211662843noreply@blogger.comBlogger254125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7327397781579268028.post-71413285503093880772012-11-10T15:11:00.001-05:002012-11-10T15:11:49.957-05:00New PhotosLife has been crazy as usual, but we found time to snap some photos for this year's Christmas card. While I only included one at the top of the new look of the blog, I wanted to show some we snapped as well...<br />
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Enjoy... the kids are growing so fast!<br />
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The guys!</div>
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The Girls, notice Ann Claire's Face!</div>
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Siblings:<br />
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How did these kids get so big! The days seem to go by slowly, but the years so fast! <br />
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Mom of Elevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393551236211662843noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7327397781579268028.post-35518801294744510712012-09-26T22:15:00.003-04:002012-09-26T22:15:55.945-04:00Albania, Here We ComeI wanted to give a quick link to a little blog I am working on. <br />
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<a href="http://www.10toalbania.blogspot.com/"><strong><em><span style="color: red;">10 to Albania</span></em></strong></a> will be a work in progress coming up this week. I will be traveling with 9 women from my local church body to fly literally around the world to share God's love. We will be working there with local missionaries to visit a girl's group home, which I am thrilled about, hospitals, orphanages, and even leading a women's retreat there at a local evangelical christian church plant. ( A country that was the first to declare it's national atheism, and now the gospel is spreading!) It makes me think of the song by Newboys, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ghC3gqNQJPQ">God's Not Dead! </a><br />
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Would those of you out there in blog land please be joining us in prayer as we travel this coming Sunday-October 8. We are all moms and wives leaving our families behind to go serve a God we love. Please pray for our families and those God has already ordained special moments with in Albania.Mom of Elevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393551236211662843noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7327397781579268028.post-48781366251542145482012-09-10T19:09:00.000-04:002012-09-10T20:45:30.415-04:00Old Friends<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Labor Day Ladies</div>
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What is it about old friends? They make us laugh until we think we will wet our pants. . they know our history. . they know all of our drama...they know all of our stories...
What's amazing about old friends is we can pick up right where we left off. <br />
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It's only that with old friends that I haven't seen in literally a year since the last Labor Day Trip, that within minutes of first sight in an airport parking lot, can we be laughing hysterically because we forgot the cute rental convertible would never hold 4 bags bigger than people. It's only with those friends that through laughter we would decide that the convertible was still worth the rental price and then begin to hold those bags with the top down. (that's the story that brought about laughter so hard I thought I might have an accident)
It was this month 20 years ago I met them all... some a few months later, but 20 years ago, we were freshman in college. What a different place I was in, what a different world it was. These girls were with me in some of the most crucial years of my life. It's when I went through some of my life's biggest decision making processes. They know it all, it doesn't even have to be discussed when we are together (although some stories are rehashed for hilarity's sake)but they KNOW me. OLD FRIENDS!<br />
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16 years ago, we began a tradition that has stuck, we've named ourselves "The Labor Day Ladies". There have been years of large groups, small groups, and even years of tragedy, one even met her future husband on this trip. There's no way to know where we will all be in 20 more years, but one's thing for sure. . we will laugh till we cry!
Mom of Elevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393551236211662843noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7327397781579268028.post-15618151731553484342011-11-11T10:07:00.006-05:002011-11-11T10:15:20.854-05:0011-11-11Today in America, something will happen that only happens twice in a century. At 11:11:11 it will be a momentous occasion because it is well. . 11-11-11. Something else happens special today that only will happen once. . R is turning 18. I assume that means he is now a man. He came to us at only age 9, a small, glasses wearing, Harry Potter loving, 3rd grader. He is now a football loving, state wrestling compete, college seeking, SAT studyin man. Wow. Words can't even describe the journey we have had with him. His recent struggles with epilepsy haven't left him burdened. He handles it. . great. I receive more compliments in my community for him that all my children combined. Sorry kids, but it's true. R leaves a mark on people he meets. His character shines through because he carries the cross inside him daily. He truly has a servant's heart because he not only wants to please man, but he wants to please his Lord. What a man and example he is to those twice his age. Thank you R, for being a light to Christ.<br />I thought I would include some recent photos.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKp2gRhszCmXKewhIiZZ3DuaCgGU_3IJl-UiD4LppSIz-7xL3irppiHljBYQi_qmHiBK6gTc9Kz2EZyYp2QJyfnR7Un_-diN3h0vWLEqaY01tuu15RXhpZfRoVgnsTQm9QlNaL2mrU58d-/s1600/rich-senior+night1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKp2gRhszCmXKewhIiZZ3DuaCgGU_3IJl-UiD4LppSIz-7xL3irppiHljBYQi_qmHiBK6gTc9Kz2EZyYp2QJyfnR7Un_-diN3h0vWLEqaY01tuu15RXhpZfRoVgnsTQm9QlNaL2mrU58d-/s320/rich-senior+night1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673756209331329666" /></a> Here we are with Richard on his Football Senior night. Today he will play with his team in the playoffs for the state title.Mom of Elevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393551236211662843noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7327397781579268028.post-64227326520866678962011-05-09T07:49:00.002-04:002011-05-09T08:01:47.551-04:00Thoughts and Reflections on being a MOMI know, I know, it's been almost two months since I last posted!! I. Am. So. Sorry. What can I say. . I've been busy being a MOM. Our spring has been jammed packed with life. . baseball, spring dance recitals and all the rehearsals, getting ready for prom, spring football training, science fairs, field trips, school auctions, and well, the normal day to day craziness!!<br /><br />I wanted to just give a big High Five out there to all the moms. Yes, a day late and a dollar short. . BUT still it must be acknowledged that mothering is the world's hardest job. <br /><br /> Mothering takes you out of any box you ever thought your life would look like! Mothering calls you to a different level of dependence on God. (for those of us that look to Him for council) Mothering requires a level of unselfishness that constantly challenges the flesh and self. <br /><br /> Mothering is the most rewarding job I've ever had. Mothering means a life depends on you. Mothering brings joys and emotions I've never felt. Mothering is a gift from the Lord.<br /><br />This Mother's Day I am able to watch as sweet friends that have longed for babies are able to finally celebrate their first mother's day. I was able to sit at the lunch table with 4 generations of women in my family. I was reminded of the verse that Paul wrote to Timothy.<br /><span style="font-style:italic;">"I have been reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also." 2 Timothy 1:5</span> And so thankful for the word of God that has been lived out in the lives of my grandmother and mother. And I am praying daily I am living it out in my life as my daughters are learning to as well. What a blessing.<br /><br />My sweet eldest son stood at Mother's Day lunch and read a letter he had penned himself. Through tears I listened as this sweet man who was once a boy at 9 that came to live with me read...<br />"You are also the biggest fan we have in anything we do". . "you loved me from the very first day you met me". Seriously? I was speechless, crying, and thanking God for this sweet boy. (almost a man) God has given me the greatest, most challenging job in the world. And to all you mothers out there, I hope you had a fabulous, restful day. <br /><br />Now, it's Monday Morning. Back to work!Mom of Elevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393551236211662843noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7327397781579268028.post-55692467701719630932011-03-13T15:50:00.003-04:002011-03-13T15:55:58.158-04:00Open Door Home WINS Big!Last night was a remarkable event. Over 1400 people in our community descended upon an arena for a first time dance off by "stars" in our our little part of the world. J participated and had a blast!! Although they didn't win. . they were more than gracious to have participated. (I think I was more competitive about it than he was!)<br /><br />The most amazing and awesome winners of the night were the children of the Open Door Home here in Rome. The grand total for the night was read aloud at the end. . over $112,000. That's an awesome amount of money for our sweet little community. . special thanks to all of you out there that helped give. Children's lives will be changed. <br /><br />Here's a link to a video from our local paper. . <br /><br /><a href="http://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fromenews-tribune.com%2F%3Fsms_ss%3Dgoogle%26at_xt%3D4d7d1eab8c42ea30%252C0&sa=D&usg=AFQjCNEmjYUyMK-etN9nZhWe6c7qOh1R7g">Click here to see. . .</a> You may need to scroll down to the Dancing Stars video at the bottom of the page. . .<br /><br />Thanks again blog world.Mom of Elevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393551236211662843noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7327397781579268028.post-7529646791411581932011-03-10T17:37:00.002-05:002011-03-10T17:41:01.536-05:00He's MY MAN! We need your help!!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBCDjFEN88N8HYPIOiHpl2PwFYaCudNlXQD93K72Ic68IRCaQ4Kc7d7XKFfry_VL0PAeEPCzSH-knQHL6LoXEcQZkk6LQMYKvdeCVtgAthYONJnew2LsxD2sBrzo2EX1ss4_WtzehulLgc/s1600/jon+and+christina%2521.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBCDjFEN88N8HYPIOiHpl2PwFYaCudNlXQD93K72Ic68IRCaQ4Kc7d7XKFfry_VL0PAeEPCzSH-knQHL6LoXEcQZkk6LQMYKvdeCVtgAthYONJnew2LsxD2sBrzo2EX1ss4_WtzehulLgc/s320/jon+and+christina%2521.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5582584651520395026" /></a><br /><br /><br /> Look at this hot guy!!<br /> He's mine!<br /><br />Please vote for him. . scroll down!!<br />Christina Rocks TOO!!Mom of Elevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393551236211662843noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7327397781579268028.post-69755932225952632762011-02-25T07:26:00.015-05:002011-02-25T12:15:17.596-05:00My hubby needs your vote!!!J is participating in a local fundraiser for a Children's Home in our area. Our very own Big T lived there for 3 years, so it is near to our hearts. Unfortunately, this small private children's home has faced the budget crunches we have seen in foster care circles in GA over the last few years. Fortunately our organization has man power behind it thanks to CFA and Mr. Cathy. Unfortunately, this home does not, this is a major fundraiser for them and <span style="font-weight: bold;">I want ALL of you out there in blog world to help out with this fundraiser. </span> (you can spend as little as $1) It is called:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Dancing with the Stars of Rome!<span style="font-style: italic;"></span></span><br /><br />Yes. . .you read it correctly and yes, it's just like the TV show. One of our friends knew a small fact about J and that he once upon a time took a ballroom class in college. What she didn't know is his instructor asked him to help instruct a few classes. . well, what can I say, J is great at everything he tries. So. . he is the professional dancer in the couple.(not really!) He is dancing with a dear friend of ours that also works for the WinShape Foundation, so she is the star!! So fun. <br /><br />Now. . they can win one of two ways, by popular votes, which I need your help with, or by the Judges award on the night of the show, March 12. It will be quite a small town production and a great deal of work has gone into every last detail. <br />There are several different links and I have listed them below. The most important way you can help is HERE:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.dancingstarsofrome.com">Click here to view and vote for Couple #6</a><br /><br /><br />Thanks for all the support. . you are helping change lives.<br />Below is the link for Children's Home you are supporting.<br /><a href="www.opendoorhome.org">Open Door Home</a>Mom of Elevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393551236211662843noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7327397781579268028.post-24777420972252524072011-02-10T13:58:00.001-05:002011-02-10T13:59:47.695-05:00On the Lighter Side of things. . .Little J, age 5, told me last night. Hey Mom, "There is this stuff you can buy called Activia, and if you want to get out there and enjoy life, just go get some at the grocery store." (he is a marketer's dream come true)<br /><br />There's not much I can say to that other than, "kids say the darndest things."Mom of Elevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393551236211662843noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7327397781579268028.post-80933668124068627342011-02-08T20:59:00.002-05:002011-02-08T21:28:55.881-05:00When Life Throws you a Curve BallLast Wednesday morning, I awoke to J's voice. . "hurry, hurry wake up, I need you". Of course I went running as he violently switched on the bedroom light to alert my sleepy state. The hour was still 6 AM, and obviously he was already awake. . I followed him through the house as he led me in a hurry towards our oldest son's room. "R is having a seizure, I need you to call 911". I stood there in shock, in a matter of seconds my sleepy brain raced to First Aid training. As foster parents, we have sat through numerous classes of First Aid response. My mind traced to seizure. . call 911. But for some reason, I had to see him. There he was on his bedroom floor, and all I could think was, "do something". I raced by to the kitchen wall phone. (where is a cordless when you need it!) I called our campus safety as that is protocol for summoning an ambulance. I immediately told the operator what the situation was. . I got to work. <br /><br />I thought of our close friends and immediately called as he is a doctor. The Holy Spirit obviously prompted me to call, as she immediately answered and her own son had been through this. She walked me step by step in a few quick seconds of what was going on, what would happen in the ambulance, and what would happen at the hospital. I swallowed back tears and a lump, I knew I had to keep going. I immediately raced back to R's room, I had a plan. By then the 911 operator was patched through and she read to me, what I already knew. I graciously listened anyway as it calmed me down. I was nervous for R. What did all of this mean?<br /><br />R came to live with us when he was 9 years old. He is now 17. Almost a man. My heart sunk as I thought quickly of what the coming weekend held for him. State. Wrestling. Finals. What would happen? I started praying. By then the campus safety was at my house. R was nearing the end of his seizure by this point and my husband stayed by him like a servant. Held his hands and head preciously as a father would. I watched from above. Helpless. Moments passed and the ambulance arrived with paramedics that would take over. By this point, they were able to somewhat awaken R from his sleepy state. Although R seemed to have a state of amnesia, he knew his Dad and even told the paramedics, "that's my dad, I know that". <br /><br />As they escorted him to the ambulance, Ann Claire awoke for her morning bottle, I knew I had to leave the scene as other children needed me. J would be with R. . I went to rock her and in the darkness of that early morning room. I prayed before the Lord and laid my heart at his feet. I begged God to not let this be a brain tumor and that if it was to heal him right there in the back of that ambulance. I begged God to give us all peace in whatever we were facing. . this was going to be a bumpy ride and please help us hold on. I needed that moment with the Lord. I rocked my sweet daughter back to sleep and prayed as I went to awake my other children. <br /><br />By this point, Papa had arrived to help get the kids to school. I awoke them one bedroom at a time and gingerly and softly told them, yes, an ambulance had just been at our home. . R was ok, but they needed to know. Sweet M. E, she of course started bawling right there first thing. . she has the most sensitive heart. As the kids left my house, I started the texts. I sent them to my truest of prayer warrior friends. . we needed intercession before the throne of grace. And boy did it happen. God worked mightily in my heart as I felt such peace that God would take care of our boy. He. did.<br /><br />The results showed a "beautiful" CT scan as the neurologist on call put it. Thank goodness for that answer to prayer. He was going to be released to come home, prescribed an anti-seizure medication, and was even cleared to wrestle in his tournament. Whew. BUT. . what did all this mean. The word epilepsy was quickly being thrown around, and I didn't even know what all of this meant. Sweet friends offered phone calls of their own stories. . one by one I heard of teenagers his own age known by close friends of ours that had similar experiences. It seemed this may be the diagnosis we may get once his follow up appointment rolled around the next week.<br /><br />I began to connect dots in my head as the memories flooded me throughout that day. R has always been a sleepwalker and talker. Over the past 6 months, there had been a handful of times we have found R the next morning with what seemed to be a bumped nose in the night, a bruised eye here or there. We have always laughed it off as, "did you fight someone in your sleep"? He always has the disposition to laugh at himself too. "I guess so", he would always say. But now I knew we were getting the answer to the riddle we had been trying to figure out. .why did he bite his tongue though?, why the headaches? why the blood in his sleep? It never occurred to me this could be seizures. Never.<br /><br />Today R was diagnosed with JME. Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy. I have some educating of myself and the family I need to do, but first and foremost this is totally treatable with medication!!! Praise God for answered prayers, answers to questions, and solutions that will help him live a normal life. Fortunately a new habit of having to take medicine won't be that hard for R, however a battery of more formal tests await us. MRIs, EEGs, kidney functioning tests, blood work. I hate it FOR him.<br /><br />Praise the Lord, he pulled through his wrestling meet very well. He finished 9th or so in his weight class, and did his very best. The beauty of this boy is that he. is. always. happy. He looks forward. He faces the present and the future. He could sit and pout about his past, but he doesn't. He is always an example to all of my children of what helping out, having a great attitude, and trying your best really means. God will use this small story one day for His glory. For whatever reason, R needed to know so many people loved him, support him, and were praying for him. He got in the car Sunday morning after church and said, "man, I love our church.". I asked him, "what do you mean?". He said, " I mean, so many people care about me, they asked about me, prayed for me, and told me, even adults I hardly know." Precious. Even in his moment of uncertainty he was thankful for the blessings of love and community. God. always. has. a. plan. Even when it's a curve ball.Mom of Elevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393551236211662843noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7327397781579268028.post-22348348701095302782011-01-13T16:03:00.000-05:002011-01-13T16:09:01.976-05:00The Big ThawWell. . I guess all good things must come to an end. Or maybe they never do? My previous "giddiness" has now turned to insanity. We will be entering our 5th snow day tomorrow morning. The snow WILL NOT GO AWAY. Record breaking lows in Georgia are causing the snow to melt so slowly that roads in our area are still not safe for safe passage. <br /><br />Today the sun is out and we have a high temp of 32 degrees. . however, I hear dripping in the gutters and liquid on the driveways. The kids have exhausted all "snow" activities, including the building of an snow fort/igloo. (it's still standing, it's so cold) Tonight the weather man is forecasting for a close to record low of 11 degrees. They even used the words "brutally cold" to describe how it will feel outside. Will the snow ever thaw? <br /><br />I really have loved it. . however we are all just a little stir crazy and buzzing with cabin fever. Today we are venturing out to see a movie as the local theatre is finally opening back up. We even went to our favorite burger dive for burgers and video games. (the kids raided Jon's quarters and played air hockey) It helped, but facing another day tomorrow PLUS the weekend PLUS an already schedule holiday Monday, this mom needs some relief!<br /><br />Enjoy the snow, I'm praying we won't get anymore for awhile.Mom of Elevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393551236211662843noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7327397781579268028.post-81000240393087541412011-01-10T12:20:00.013-05:002011-01-10T13:33:17.219-05:00Worth the Wait<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCHvHG5lrpCc571mZ_HmUP5Qj5w13bdyVjBUESyQHDfeNbTLw5T8Hs3sLdLhRmWu5A6K87cD0FFqrmOIbuc2hoY-xZcla8yzle14sDQHyzt8VdH54WFLJN4jBTKsF5e-jRZ2Gg4eR6BKvi/s1600/IMG_9969.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCHvHG5lrpCc571mZ_HmUP5Qj5w13bdyVjBUESyQHDfeNbTLw5T8Hs3sLdLhRmWu5A6K87cD0FFqrmOIbuc2hoY-xZcla8yzle14sDQHyzt8VdH54WFLJN4jBTKsF5e-jRZ2Gg4eR6BKvi/s320/IMG_9969.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560618187996986066" /></a> Our little cottage in the snow!<br /><br />Last night around 10 PM, as predicted, snow started falling over North Georgia. By midnight, 2 inches had already fallen and it was the most beautiful sight. I can't put into words what I saw, but I'll try. As I headed to bed, I turned out all outside flood lights and as I looked out my front door the sight was perfect. The snow was so bright it literally lit the outside. I could see almost 1/2 a mile in the complete dark. . and it almost had a red, twilight glow about it. Such beauty. The smell and sound of it was beautiful as well.<br /><br />This morning when the kids awoke it might as well have been Christmas morning. Again. They loved it. They ran from window to window looking to see what every aspect of the outside looked like. The playset. The grill. The front driveway. The bird bath. The picnic table. Precious. They wanted to be the first to our local sledding spot so off we went to dig out snow clothes. When we got there a few college guys had beat us. .they were sledding with a baby pool. Seriously?<br /><br />I thought I would share a few shots of the fun.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Z2WIMER0xWt7_eeiIqtY9-KYPJzTLe0vrFLJME0Xy2awLicz73xQ5ygXlkLWFnx5EUZhVsBcRjoymki7Nyu4xDNOrpwzemxb04njUsA6zjThUt_GkNHVauceerRaLfoJGUIyIiBsexuV/s1600/IMG_9959.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Z2WIMER0xWt7_eeiIqtY9-KYPJzTLe0vrFLJME0Xy2awLicz73xQ5ygXlkLWFnx5EUZhVsBcRjoymki7Nyu4xDNOrpwzemxb04njUsA6zjThUt_GkNHVauceerRaLfoJGUIyIiBsexuV/s320/IMG_9959.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560617627353286498" /></a> The view from our front door. Gorgeous. This is spot I stood in last night that was lit up just like dawn would look.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl-igunFS8WyaJgivRaG5CCJhI-nEcbHTHTUhKxo2VdGRAUFVsoTOa-VhDffL7Yu1oLOnP1T7si64oUnxQMA6w-RK9DONbsz_FgFVHUbphdbwO_a9UGVQsE09kzh9TxHWj2M4F1JWgvzr7/s1600/IMG_9961.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl-igunFS8WyaJgivRaG5CCJhI-nEcbHTHTUhKxo2VdGRAUFVsoTOa-VhDffL7Yu1oLOnP1T7si64oUnxQMA6w-RK9DONbsz_FgFVHUbphdbwO_a9UGVQsE09kzh9TxHWj2M4F1JWgvzr7/s320/IMG_9961.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560617918653837090" /></a>Little AC. Today is her 19 month bday! She loved it!<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg44XMqBhYgMvmo1_FtzkoOqYT1hQOx7HSQ_L7yfNhRQb4J2yQa67tkmym-Qi8M3lqP6jZ-TpHASARMzK5rgUDSIGw4JtGESLhNze7HdTkX10CL1WAamHtrfZLW29xvpbXuaZu0i7gCDj30/s1600/snow+2010+017.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg44XMqBhYgMvmo1_FtzkoOqYT1hQOx7HSQ_L7yfNhRQb4J2yQa67tkmym-Qi8M3lqP6jZ-TpHASARMzK5rgUDSIGw4JtGESLhNze7HdTkX10CL1WAamHtrfZLW29xvpbXuaZu0i7gCDj30/s320/snow+2010+017.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560625623600745714" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqb5Vw8lv2SQbTjOQvyoB5EF7g3kP9M9pNr1EHvSizjnL9gzlXIzkC5ZRJizVjf7acBJku1bA6NNRq__f-kTsOLuizpSqVKTPt12jNICvKo5h1RE8I_Rv1IuGnfZIekXBA73DtaNdCRdLJ/s1600/snow+2010+004.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqb5Vw8lv2SQbTjOQvyoB5EF7g3kP9M9pNr1EHvSizjnL9gzlXIzkC5ZRJizVjf7acBJku1bA6NNRq__f-kTsOLuizpSqVKTPt12jNICvKo5h1RE8I_Rv1IuGnfZIekXBA73DtaNdCRdLJ/s320/snow+2010+004.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560625433478371682" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIs8uaU5EFHCa6deaU4UAFb38-fD4FGcq2EVqoNqGcTIKhu5EWFUwNTz47K8X0Gr_-ivcEFJcwuyUIFvhpyM_IF5fuSihHlc3h0LWFqut4d8dz98PGtuG-CqW-5UrhP4ouZZ11huepSvaN/s1600/snow+2010+006.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIs8uaU5EFHCa6deaU4UAFb38-fD4FGcq2EVqoNqGcTIKhu5EWFUwNTz47K8X0Gr_-ivcEFJcwuyUIFvhpyM_IF5fuSihHlc3h0LWFqut4d8dz98PGtuG-CqW-5UrhP4ouZZ11huepSvaN/s320/snow+2010+006.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560625113039766354" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb7vjHY0OBxVF-_aicIv3WpiYbj2ECc69Q_xaWwkZMcCFMiokXefjtQVHAZlvuDbpuf5FiwOZ0Xc-Of3ByuN0an5dL9i_ye8N9dUR6PMpPsCsaxuMiwiytbXpJzU1Fdicx0v_iwv6WWtiu/s1600/snow+2010+003.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb7vjHY0OBxVF-_aicIv3WpiYbj2ECc69Q_xaWwkZMcCFMiokXefjtQVHAZlvuDbpuf5FiwOZ0Xc-Of3ByuN0an5dL9i_ye8N9dUR6PMpPsCsaxuMiwiytbXpJzU1Fdicx0v_iwv6WWtiu/s320/snow+2010+003.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560624948018501954" /></a><br /><em><strong><em>Some of our local scenery. Such beauty!</em></strong></em><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUWt2YVqhinftDHy4GYG-JjMInU4REyiyj12hF2-w3gU3Cx7b47bgWD-FxdvvavXxDVQu4YLPPwj04fzitMs7WV4Fw1dSLYvGceWLrU3CFEWpfPT1lRPCrBHGpE8I6vPpLtjXUHCria8hS/s1600/snow+2010+024.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUWt2YVqhinftDHy4GYG-JjMInU4REyiyj12hF2-w3gU3Cx7b47bgWD-FxdvvavXxDVQu4YLPPwj04fzitMs7WV4Fw1dSLYvGceWLrU3CFEWpfPT1lRPCrBHGpE8I6vPpLtjXUHCria8hS/s320/snow+2010+024.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560626156691679794" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt3pgNhGn2qV8KsQYgYUs_v9CwcI_sjkj7AMdltrtGaZwZA-x7muG0euP00ZrFxXZjfFCPYrdNCJoCoTvRwBXjlzmb8s6-k7ATuUwqwqxca6AGL2NQhdsC9ax63vYIOtZjUobKIQoo1lIc/s1600/snow+2010+002.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt3pgNhGn2qV8KsQYgYUs_v9CwcI_sjkj7AMdltrtGaZwZA-x7muG0euP00ZrFxXZjfFCPYrdNCJoCoTvRwBXjlzmb8s6-k7ATuUwqwqxca6AGL2NQhdsC9ax63vYIOtZjUobKIQoo1lIc/s320/snow+2010+002.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560626019968459138" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeD9ZWa_7EMPOpBisu67hSLOwBUxzD_5vFjhwiFj-vLwIN1heov4gmBmNooIX-Vj2Aoe6HMRurxuI23L-N2E1aS10rqTOEh4-llemDCths0vGq-dVrSlhhaEvsulayxCx_qlH03FvyhCb3/s1600/snow+2010+001.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeD9ZWa_7EMPOpBisu67hSLOwBUxzD_5vFjhwiFj-vLwIN1heov4gmBmNooIX-Vj2Aoe6HMRurxuI23L-N2E1aS10rqTOEh4-llemDCths0vGq-dVrSlhhaEvsulayxCx_qlH03FvyhCb3/s320/snow+2010+001.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560625946714209154" /></a><br /><br />After a morning of cold fun we are all in. We've had snow cream, hot chocolate, and soup for lunch. I love making fun memories with my kids like this. It is in front of that very chapel where I used to sled with my brothers and where I even walked down the aisle to marry my sweet hubby. God has blessed me with living here to raise my family. The snow is the icing on the top! Enjoy your day wherever you are. . if you live near us, stay warm!Mom of Elevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393551236211662843noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7327397781579268028.post-52308804440711320212011-01-09T20:18:00.002-05:002011-01-09T20:35:08.993-05:00On waiting and being prepared. . .At this very moment, a huge winter storm is headed our way. School has been called off for at least tomorrow. We have heeded the warning and spent the weekend preparing. .lots of milk. . 6 gallons in the fridge to be exact. I have stocked up on plenty of food and since the storm called for ice I bought food that could even be cooked on the grill should we lose power. My dad searched on a scavenger hunt all over our campus for their old generator. It ended up in a storage room at the end of our field. . too heavy for Jon to load on his truck so he and the kids actually rolled it to our house. Yes. The length of a football field. Gas has been bought to run it, the firewood is stacked in the carport. All of the laundry is drying just in case. (I grew up on this campus and lived many a snow storm without power) I wanted to be prepared.<br /><br />As I mentioned in my post about Christmas, I love the snow. I am literally like a kid at Christmas when it arrives. I don't know what it is about it. . the world is just, well. . prettier. How can brown trees and dead winter grass become so beautiful so instantly? I can't fathom a Creator that created it. To me, it is a gift from Him. . a reminder of what he does to our sins. Isaiah 1:18 says, <span style="font-weight:bold;">"Come now, let us reason together, " says the Lord. "Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool."<span style="font-style:italic;"></span></span> What a beautiful reminder of what He does for us.<br /><br />I also was thinking tonight on waiting for the return of Christ. . am I ready, am I ready for Him to come back to take us home? Just like the example in the New Testament, we don't know the hour or the day, but we must be prepared. Today at church was "Good News" Sunday. A day to reflect on testimonies of fellow church members that testified to the Holy Spirit working in their lives to bring them to Jesus. One was a sweet lifelong friend. As I listened to their stories. . I thought of all Jesus has done to prepare us. All of the work orchestrated to get each of his children "ready for him". Also it was a reminder to me to share my story with other's, to share Him, to help the cause of getting the world ready. He will not return until the Whole world hears!! <br /><br />Jesus died for all of us.. he takes our sins, makes them white as snow. Pray to Him. . and YOU will be prepared for His return! Now. . bring on the snow!Mom of Elevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393551236211662843noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7327397781579268028.post-35617156888932673382011-01-06T14:49:00.013-05:002011-01-06T15:10:27.596-05:00Christmas Morning!This year's Christmas consisted of 4 days of celebrations. Yes. Four. Days. What an event. I have tried to break up all of our parties and gatherings into sections. . there was so much to document.<br /><br />Christmas morning, I awoke early with little Ann Claire, she went back to sleep. . so I was able to get our morning going without the kids even stirring just yet. I started a fire in the fireplace, turned on some Christmas tunes and was able to snap a few photos of what I found in the den before the little ones came running in.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Q7wwxVgyFliZUfXjjPhxVc1bix6OFHIKieal6SGOtTmPk42avRlrthS2Ia39pS8Mvi-VGGqKDoYtbwdCksB2W3uhL7xPtFMGt8GzVnzttZDWiIWDvlzcf8zTZtdkeyGLngDNMfPv-Jyy/s1600/IMG_9918.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Q7wwxVgyFliZUfXjjPhxVc1bix6OFHIKieal6SGOtTmPk42avRlrthS2Ia39pS8Mvi-VGGqKDoYtbwdCksB2W3uhL7xPtFMGt8GzVnzttZDWiIWDvlzcf8zTZtdkeyGLngDNMfPv-Jyy/s320/IMG_9918.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559162950997382114" /></a> Santa had come! He was so generous to all of us this year! Thank you Santa! (this was pre-kid destruction)<br /><br /><strong><em>This is our family tree in the family room!</em></strong><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnrK6BOLVoD436yVGEKXHKp43pgK3nJ2USAROntGTnrD4wX1Y_gfusj88DV0WA2psHDl7cHJ_HrAT_HsTK2PC24ojC2fy1Jlm1i9rhXeUiOIABHLKpxdyI99RuY-pnWqQ9q8JMUNpQwZgP/s1600/IMG_9919.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnrK6BOLVoD436yVGEKXHKp43pgK3nJ2USAROntGTnrD4wX1Y_gfusj88DV0WA2psHDl7cHJ_HrAT_HsTK2PC24ojC2fy1Jlm1i9rhXeUiOIABHLKpxdyI99RuY-pnWqQ9q8JMUNpQwZgP/s320/IMG_9919.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559163277932300130" /></a> I tried to capture what I felt and saw that morning.. . peace and beauty. Exactly what Jesus brought when we came to earth. Peace in the fight for our eternal lives and beauty in what His life would mean to ALL he came for!<br /><br /><strong><em>This is our tree in the main Living Room. . this year it held most of the family gifts under one tree!</em></strong><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz_gC8-N8zMrNd6mUfRX-RSRm-Lt10C5aRyOLB7uDWCqT2E_tbNAmQaOGRds8_YuNkcQEQGGpNzDyt3H3cZplcB7TjP3yJbwsuT7nq3nGp9Ga50ZMH8Nyki0SgndrWRrXYDXwGYoQ3xjSI/s1600/IMG_9931.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz_gC8-N8zMrNd6mUfRX-RSRm-Lt10C5aRyOLB7uDWCqT2E_tbNAmQaOGRds8_YuNkcQEQGGpNzDyt3H3cZplcB7TjP3yJbwsuT7nq3nGp9Ga50ZMH8Nyki0SgndrWRrXYDXwGYoQ3xjSI/s320/IMG_9931.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559163822225636146" /></a> This was definitely the before shot, I didn't even take the after. . it was a MESS!<br /><br /><strong><em>Almost time!</em></strong><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZsiK45ydElGGjaIE3TLK7puDeXjEBerx90FZWxs5oslO1RWwMxaoJi03hV0qmUMor4OhYH2yewRD2ZRx1pKAbgAv9LcoG8gnq4nW5hx2V-MKFBAdVuDK2mnzUlekAOuIQdsoISTCk9rrO/s1600/IMG_9921.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZsiK45ydElGGjaIE3TLK7puDeXjEBerx90FZWxs5oslO1RWwMxaoJi03hV0qmUMor4OhYH2yewRD2ZRx1pKAbgAv9LcoG8gnq4nW5hx2V-MKFBAdVuDK2mnzUlekAOuIQdsoISTCk9rrO/s320/IMG_9921.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559164435846875810" /></a> The younger kids WAITING anxiously for the teenagers to crawl out of bed so they could all run in together!<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw-6GzbopCBE9zfTl5SFsicovq9VdsPcxJWr18TsXVfLajZiNeDIqgUVgINW6yssPbNZWLmhycM_wv4nYXtEybO1VPvwv9aZeNbk-zHJx6ogO3TzBFzgj3bD-dMnY5Z1QYefv-qYtUXD_R/s1600/IMG_9922.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw-6GzbopCBE9zfTl5SFsicovq9VdsPcxJWr18TsXVfLajZiNeDIqgUVgINW6yssPbNZWLmhycM_wv4nYXtEybO1VPvwv9aZeNbk-zHJx6ogO3TzBFzgj3bD-dMnY5Z1QYefv-qYtUXD_R/s320/IMG_9922.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559164741321563826" /></a> The long anticipated moment had come. S's face says it all!<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitzq5WKG24TsS98pR3XcR3TYopp3uPvxQDv0QB2ynmvzyUH3bCSqNU83qcu1GQpa5F9aFrfTicfJjGoJ9IEti3rbeahbn4tqmmaQrdo_u-0Iagjdzn5Sq4Cy6-OYX-0NbhJYZHYxuD52tN/s1600/IMG_9926.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitzq5WKG24TsS98pR3XcR3TYopp3uPvxQDv0QB2ynmvzyUH3bCSqNU83qcu1GQpa5F9aFrfTicfJjGoJ9IEti3rbeahbn4tqmmaQrdo_u-0Iagjdzn5Sq4Cy6-OYX-0NbhJYZHYxuD52tN/s320/IMG_9926.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559165221953909394" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3lbhbOi2ZzvEfw7xx2mXZzsu5-Tni92mPf_4it0DzfbXQI2bykR_oROavS1Z61vYztQnyGyZ_xZBZQ59TYKEN4INupSYzKJXwqQW322-AW7rIS_pUq06OJRTr4AdIyUUD95hMQMcuxo-V/s1600/IMG_9929.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3lbhbOi2ZzvEfw7xx2mXZzsu5-Tni92mPf_4it0DzfbXQI2bykR_oROavS1Z61vYztQnyGyZ_xZBZQ59TYKEN4INupSYzKJXwqQW322-AW7rIS_pUq06OJRTr4AdIyUUD95hMQMcuxo-V/s320/IMG_9929.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559165425561549970" /></a><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN0X3-j2ImuPjIzddZ1BCS50mTIQJEl7B5dXG_T4GNWQ2WgI0fHjEuWib-UcEEyn4CFna_faNtx3w-LV-8hJQcGVwjE-OjtJYClOQ1-nKPaP-lOb7MbYm9WWAqoT1zTKCrar7BW6DIqmOc/s1600/IMG_9927.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN0X3-j2ImuPjIzddZ1BCS50mTIQJEl7B5dXG_T4GNWQ2WgI0fHjEuWib-UcEEyn4CFna_faNtx3w-LV-8hJQcGVwjE-OjtJYClOQ1-nKPaP-lOb7MbYm9WWAqoT1zTKCrar7BW6DIqmOc/s320/IMG_9927.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559165735735877266" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv2EjI81Raz9aWmahpcbmzndlbRuMfzKpDTElUPv6mnlI6KvS7EKJiNgclHmwL0KsbHrSS2Brfe1KZ6q4CXTmnLZGoj8V91oTcDjO6D0vz7Hw5Ib20FpsZl_AyS8iBFBe-2bYof9g6gATG/s1600/IMG_9933.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv2EjI81Raz9aWmahpcbmzndlbRuMfzKpDTElUPv6mnlI6KvS7EKJiNgclHmwL0KsbHrSS2Brfe1KZ6q4CXTmnLZGoj8V91oTcDjO6D0vz7Hw5Ib20FpsZl_AyS8iBFBe-2bYof9g6gATG/s320/IMG_9933.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559165929917304882" /></a> A C is crazy about Curious George, notice she found him in the middle of her gifts!<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNgO0_OdatDj03KM4z0yfjA0C1RskCb2u-oyJZd4IYh8Y2DnDjdqHZh8REwdi_eP5RRUi1UgSY5xAsJRKQo4q3Huk-Wy4xIedpImKwmTE8AuFBzQv6f1VYLTXVbmJbgwJ-XC8qnv_x7z8_/s1600/IMG_9940.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNgO0_OdatDj03KM4z0yfjA0C1RskCb2u-oyJZd4IYh8Y2DnDjdqHZh8REwdi_eP5RRUi1UgSY5xAsJRKQo4q3Huk-Wy4xIedpImKwmTE8AuFBzQv6f1VYLTXVbmJbgwJ-XC8qnv_x7z8_/s320/IMG_9940.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559166268058116738" /></a> This candy cane was basically her breakfast. . Nana, Papa, Aunt Jen, and Uncle Bill came over for Christmas breakfast. At breakfast, M. E. led us in prayer and then I jokingly added. . "and please let it snow". That was about 9 AM. . this was taken from my front door at around 3 PM. Prayer works!<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLBivOdZGPEZYUqE5BZw_VMlFRHRfOBMHCv-H8REiOLIZ94vEbHe91ViTN8SWZHVTpE9EQ1sk5BUMZ2QYRaYrxxQ2PI7gTgiNRjyeXP-OH9Dr5E7ZCp0a1z7thsuUnZD9mmlHYXYlwCAhW/s1600/christmas+snow.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 239px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLBivOdZGPEZYUqE5BZw_VMlFRHRfOBMHCv-H8REiOLIZ94vEbHe91ViTN8SWZHVTpE9EQ1sk5BUMZ2QYRaYrxxQ2PI7gTgiNRjyeXP-OH9Dr5E7ZCp0a1z7thsuUnZD9mmlHYXYlwCAhW/s320/christmas+snow.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559166976255645234" /></a><br />Those that know be best, know how I feel about snow. . I was thrilled. It was such a magical Christmas this year. . . one the kids will remember as special one that was WHITE. I will too.Mom of Elevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393551236211662843noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7327397781579268028.post-64045544249396601182010-12-31T13:14:00.011-05:002011-01-06T14:49:18.969-05:00Christmas Eve Memories!I. Love. Traditions. I love that every family group has them, whether they acknowledge them as traditions or not, as humans, we are creatures of habit. Habits make us feel safe, secure, and traditions usually derive out of. . well, we did it that way last year. So, each Christmas Eve we venture to our church's candlelight service, which always brings me to tears. The trouble with this year is that I was asked to sing with our church's new praise team group. "In Christ Alone" and "Silent night" about did me in. There was a moment in Silent Night that I literally could not get out the words because the room was lit with 500+ candles. . I was speechless. The candlelight tradition sung to Silent Night will always be one of my favorite traditions.<br /><br />From there we travel across town to J's parents' house for an appetizer party. The kids dress in their finest and fanciest and dig in to a feast of finger foods. After that we take the "traditional" family photos in front of the fire. The kids then all receive one gift to open which is traditionally their Christmas PJ's. <br /><br />We then head home all hyped on sugar and sheer excitement. . and the kids always check NORAD to see where Santa is on the radar. Luckily he was still in Canada so the kids had time to settle to bed.. . I tried to document as much as I could on camera.<br /><br />Enjoy!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCNy7FOBFczVh2f4l6M16rsc6VnQRnH1mY4r6U2MaZCVzBWvGFOpuB2vO3j68xowNqTCkhEYFmyswPU1J5s-ui4qF5KJalqzc2IvOQDd3R_Mm5yCJSieF_3Lq8AZAeApApHahgPWvTEfgW/s1600/IMG_9891.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCNy7FOBFczVh2f4l6M16rsc6VnQRnH1mY4r6U2MaZCVzBWvGFOpuB2vO3j68xowNqTCkhEYFmyswPU1J5s-ui4qF5KJalqzc2IvOQDd3R_Mm5yCJSieF_3Lq8AZAeApApHahgPWvTEfgW/s320/IMG_9891.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559153453150087602" /></a> Sweet baby girl! Now 18 months, her 2nd Christmas proved to be a delight. She really loved looking for our "elf" every morning. . when did she get so big?<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZacCMmO-Qxvk141O5069yoH7JxU2kcv7X8VOD3DgjR5O-aaxXGJsQKSiHiI_01iu8qga9VgAmahlX7pRYVLzCWmY7D2hH6IppdRahk2RAb6jJBIABSdLHtVPkhv1uvxSv7sNk4jBWeF-u/s1600/IMG_9896.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZacCMmO-Qxvk141O5069yoH7JxU2kcv7X8VOD3DgjR5O-aaxXGJsQKSiHiI_01iu8qga9VgAmahlX7pRYVLzCWmY7D2hH6IppdRahk2RAb6jJBIABSdLHtVPkhv1uvxSv7sNk4jBWeF-u/s320/IMG_9896.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559154667357561266" /></a> This was taken "pre-pj's" and still dressed up from church. I appreciated every one's efforts to look nice for the occasion! <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivwECC-AjfErV5nMzTqEV5zUfsmfD7qaFTjsGIADAlvU-WzUJriss3h7gG-43rN0ASyVXAbNlgHR7uXCG65MM9lUXrLSmMazf1sqNp7yVPdqevTMztSL5fhlzzl-2Pi-SEhtznJ7SC8Boz/s1600/IMG_9899.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivwECC-AjfErV5nMzTqEV5zUfsmfD7qaFTjsGIADAlvU-WzUJriss3h7gG-43rN0ASyVXAbNlgHR7uXCG65MM9lUXrLSmMazf1sqNp7yVPdqevTMztSL5fhlzzl-2Pi-SEhtznJ7SC8Boz/s320/IMG_9899.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559155097780472802" /></a><br />A quick photo with Nana and Papa. They have been so faithful to keep the tradition of hosting our annual party! <br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIINjnedN-juEz5Kkkp7brIB9xG0kl5nWeIgZnki8toUwUYNLGtZxJLmRhhzQHH5gXVT7FooUW24OTCBs00c8o69yD_UbXce8uZV_9hABJ_0Vz_TV2XONEplZ7cNfYG6H_t9F5gZ7TrGCm/s1600/IMG_9908.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIINjnedN-juEz5Kkkp7brIB9xG0kl5nWeIgZnki8toUwUYNLGtZxJLmRhhzQHH5gXVT7FooUW24OTCBs00c8o69yD_UbXce8uZV_9hABJ_0Vz_TV2XONEplZ7cNfYG6H_t9F5gZ7TrGCm/s320/IMG_9908.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559158874206431762" /></a>A fun moment once the some of the girls changed. . aren't they cute!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK3VBkZv1lva3OVyEa5FYYIZO-GxS0e53_JVmnhtawBUjmH6hebus1h6BvoUkRtfiXT5ZRNZzkSCh7vzoNN5QEVsLymwlwIirv1xlmwQ838MyQC37iAJeqKakfbz9LOxU0NCCrrBa2LjUv/s1600/IMG_9909.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK3VBkZv1lva3OVyEa5FYYIZO-GxS0e53_JVmnhtawBUjmH6hebus1h6BvoUkRtfiXT5ZRNZzkSCh7vzoNN5QEVsLymwlwIirv1xlmwQ838MyQC37iAJeqKakfbz9LOxU0NCCrrBa2LjUv/s320/IMG_9909.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559160922650179730" /></a>The kids are always such good sports. They know I love the tradition of getting a picture of ALL of them all ready for Santa!<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizKk1dv1s0PY604Qij1pCSYQASXrkq7smj8KRcR86-qHv1MPOfm3uGBNZdA40AEEZklgBCiVvQ-wk-6nty7K-hvMfBKza2EHRHor3IzKsfgUi0MnJ4IpUZ2UixJgq-AzLb6SCqVYt-mm2i/s1600/IMG_9915.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizKk1dv1s0PY604Qij1pCSYQASXrkq7smj8KRcR86-qHv1MPOfm3uGBNZdA40AEEZklgBCiVvQ-wk-6nty7K-hvMfBKza2EHRHor3IzKsfgUi0MnJ4IpUZ2UixJgq-AzLb6SCqVYt-mm2i/s320/IMG_9915.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559161326609641842" /></a>M. E. and Daphne (sweet cousin) were doing handstands and flips they were so happy for Santa to come!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKTTUZXaRcezQR-RnNIRjhmk7T_AiRv5PBfLn3gpmo51sNUDeERA7dSDxHPz-FIaFHMZTo4S0ZoiZ4bGRxRDofr8Z-UN2E-IE4WqkWNgx7KEoStdQQ1xGVmPy7vktocoCBHvMU5_ByJEBT/s1600/IMG_9916.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKTTUZXaRcezQR-RnNIRjhmk7T_AiRv5PBfLn3gpmo51sNUDeERA7dSDxHPz-FIaFHMZTo4S0ZoiZ4bGRxRDofr8Z-UN2E-IE4WqkWNgx7KEoStdQQ1xGVmPy7vktocoCBHvMU5_ByJEBT/s320/IMG_9916.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559161704510008162" /></a><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlYR6w1CSOlQYiZWcPWSDCow6nrPtp_khKptf9y-6l20dCz28yPwAz7IXghDt4uLaodb-N-uANNqi0eDpIJTiVGeKRSmiyR_fE-hR2jKwsiAhU2DRjUqv8YuAo1a0pO-tjIdhL1rwjbeK5/s1600/IMG_9912.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlYR6w1CSOlQYiZWcPWSDCow6nrPtp_khKptf9y-6l20dCz28yPwAz7IXghDt4uLaodb-N-uANNqi0eDpIJTiVGeKRSmiyR_fE-hR2jKwsiAhU2DRjUqv8YuAo1a0pO-tjIdhL1rwjbeK5/s320/IMG_9912.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559161956604376242" /></a> Sweet cousins. Poor boys, they can get lost in all those females!<br /><br />It was finally time for our evening to come to an end. . Santa was coming very soon. . we rushed home and hit the sack. . and finally Not a Creature was stirring, not even a mouse! Or a Whitley!Mom of Elevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393551236211662843noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7327397781579268028.post-79571258527483865242010-12-28T10:07:00.002-05:002010-12-28T10:14:07.697-05:00Christmas PastIt's absolutely crazy to think of Christmas 2010 in the past tense. For months we have been planning, anticipating, organizing, and waiting for the event. It came, it went. . now it's gone. BUT, we have the HOPE of Christ because of Christmas. This year on Christmas Eve Eve. . we watched The Nativity Story which then led to a viewing of the Jesus film. Little J was a bundle of questions THE. ENTIRE. TIME. <br /><br />I was weary of answering him until I realized at bedtime, it was the Holy Spirit prodding his little 5 year old mind. He. got. it. From birth to resurrection story, he wanted in, and I mean in. He didn't want to be on Satan's team and even told me in his own words. Right there in his bed, he prayed to receive Christ and be HIS forever. What a Christmas gift. Yes, the first Christmas has come and gone, but the HOPE of Christ makes it present for ALL of us today. This year will forever be etched in my mind as one of my very favorite Christmas's, (the White Christmas made it a little better!) BUT the best part of J's little commitment to Jesus due to his understanding of HIS birth and why HE came HERE.<br /><br />I am feeling led to make a New Year's resolution to ramp up my blog posts. . hopefully I will follow through and not fail :) I hope to post Christmas photos soon!Mom of Elevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393551236211662843noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7327397781579268028.post-52828478405047044422010-12-23T22:47:00.004-05:002010-12-23T22:55:28.293-05:00Merry Christmas!Wishing you and yours many Christmas Blessings this Holiday Season!<br />From our family to yours,<br />Merry Christmas!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS-28wzok-wLa9lDcIPayJhdcPpQTBXUnYZDGw5xFb6qquDyMsQ6iyXmdpb1aoFhLS0SnN4diAEE7dSXvly5EbSv5S_ZowO4J3HzSAzcOLt_kvdNOGVap3KMuXPjcJgD5Q16I1GhBI8p2O/s1600/IMG_9732.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS-28wzok-wLa9lDcIPayJhdcPpQTBXUnYZDGw5xFb6qquDyMsQ6iyXmdpb1aoFhLS0SnN4diAEE7dSXvly5EbSv5S_ZowO4J3HzSAzcOLt_kvdNOGVap3KMuXPjcJgD5Q16I1GhBI8p2O/s320/IMG_9732.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5554092295640845106" /></a><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvSb6l0gIm7LP1OrUhfRV58SuEJjrOUBQEeisbaKll6xp3au7vYfp9D_sufHUXfeRre9rHdQ0Fw1ZmPF89RbOoGymsWEf77_s6BDBvOSkI5I0j7bxSxcfP5_5wMj2YAJCrxl502DZLepr6/s1600/IMG_9740.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvSb6l0gIm7LP1OrUhfRV58SuEJjrOUBQEeisbaKll6xp3au7vYfp9D_sufHUXfeRre9rHdQ0Fw1ZmPF89RbOoGymsWEf77_s6BDBvOSkI5I0j7bxSxcfP5_5wMj2YAJCrxl502DZLepr6/s320/IMG_9740.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5554091840290937938" /></a><br /><br /><br /><em>The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light. For those who lived in a land of deep shadows - light! sunbursts of light! </em>Isaiah 9:2 The MessageMom of Elevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393551236211662843noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7327397781579268028.post-42271338443973405512010-12-03T08:01:00.011-05:002010-12-03T08:25:03.802-05:00Twas the Night Before Christmas<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMcexcIRckc1Hn7MI-Wai3mLP0HO6-2MYzwIskgEXwH38rs1O_qAGzxNYBU92UavUv77uGbH108QcnTYOlSDjilna909eqxpZ3AhaoyhILk_Om2Fx8Kc952mK0sabM26BQfeg99U9eEgWC/s1600/IMG_9839.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMcexcIRckc1Hn7MI-Wai3mLP0HO6-2MYzwIskgEXwH38rs1O_qAGzxNYBU92UavUv77uGbH108QcnTYOlSDjilna909eqxpZ3AhaoyhILk_Om2Fx8Kc952mK0sabM26BQfeg99U9eEgWC/s320/IMG_9839.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546444183831462994" /></a><br /><br />Our dance studio performs a precious show every other year, so glad they give us a year off. . Twas the Night Before Christmas. They do a great job of having several acts which include Santa's workshop, then the reading of Twas the Night Before Christmas. . we had elves, dreaming girls in nightgowns, an ice skater, and even Donder the reindeer. Even our own Papa wore a nightgown and performed as the Papa to the nightgown girls. The show is always the Saturday before Thanksgiving, and I am so grateful it does not fall during the hustle and bustle of December. I wanted to post a few photos from the weekend performance, such a fun time!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQf1BtprZ-2fkbIX2wUsOsQnch_ayaXwHt6T0rJF1fsPVgSYLf6cqZxijp0WjnWdMWXH9MtRPyvRlbmBOAggmQ-KA4EfvKntUOwYZSdj3PQufO0kZTd-XaoTN2ZmvjsFYZ6asURz_QSIYQ/s1600/IMG_9786.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQf1BtprZ-2fkbIX2wUsOsQnch_ayaXwHt6T0rJF1fsPVgSYLf6cqZxijp0WjnWdMWXH9MtRPyvRlbmBOAggmQ-KA4EfvKntUOwYZSdj3PQufO0kZTd-XaoTN2ZmvjsFYZ6asURz_QSIYQ/s320/IMG_9786.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546441224637692546" /></a> M. E. was the deputy elf. . are you surprised? She even had a clipboard she carried with a giant pencil. Does she remind you of anyone?<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-gvoMOgedrjEUkcy9srnzwwUuTaGZ75H5MH8nG06UgNF6hzHBw76WYV340Q_pvUYfj9WH6TlrNOcerZKNf2q-RDvJQUsB6ydt8IwhlQpL83FHJlc-Kxk6MtN8qsopfuwsR9PHmA_bZ0y3/s1600/IMG_9796.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-gvoMOgedrjEUkcy9srnzwwUuTaGZ75H5MH8nG06UgNF6hzHBw76WYV340Q_pvUYfj9WH6TlrNOcerZKNf2q-RDvJQUsB6ydt8IwhlQpL83FHJlc-Kxk6MtN8qsopfuwsR9PHmA_bZ0y3/s320/IMG_9796.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546441621740201810" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5YyMCPcLBas6B1xvsYS58sT4Dclo6viPHNM-OVjWiPYS2Ro-DeAwbBt3RGF0bpwgBnmLmNld2KK9t3rab-sMtl1lgBsYyOGzKCdT6AME7JpF1gyv1xB2ShvYAlmjExOThwbIa_GnXQZtb/s1600/IMG_9822.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5YyMCPcLBas6B1xvsYS58sT4Dclo6viPHNM-OVjWiPYS2Ro-DeAwbBt3RGF0bpwgBnmLmNld2KK9t3rab-sMtl1lgBsYyOGzKCdT6AME7JpF1gyv1xB2ShvYAlmjExOThwbIa_GnXQZtb/s320/IMG_9822.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546445824878356834" /></a>K as a Nightgown girl. . this is a precious "dreamy" dance. . she even danced with her Emily American girl doll. . we love this dance!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQxqXPbaJpqzjCrQHFkiG314l8EasdjuOACK78yi-Rg0r7WoQtH893Qt-xhkY3n3KQXDzg0l9y6KvSPdJE-16wGL4KozLkqgmU3tcaxrGsDX2tS7-SGmKHiXMqFB-8gfeWtplpfRWbnqhv/s1600/IMG_9872.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQxqXPbaJpqzjCrQHFkiG314l8EasdjuOACK78yi-Rg0r7WoQtH893Qt-xhkY3n3KQXDzg0l9y6KvSPdJE-16wGL4KozLkqgmU3tcaxrGsDX2tS7-SGmKHiXMqFB-8gfeWtplpfRWbnqhv/s320/IMG_9872.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546442461568504034" /></a> S performed a very hard tap dance to "Sleigh Ride". . it put me in the spirit!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1N6f0L5R50I9DcFjFRJxD2TNroqP3f4HqQz9Vpif9JQfG60V3R7VIMisIeD4eI4Gjb_nElgSb3Of9zXs4VN1BwhoaeF37j894j9jONXzDjSmD2xoGkF4nZITVTr5P2Dx9hHUQny0uj9f-/s1600/IMG_9849.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1N6f0L5R50I9DcFjFRJxD2TNroqP3f4HqQz9Vpif9JQfG60V3R7VIMisIeD4eI4Gjb_nElgSb3Of9zXs4VN1BwhoaeF37j894j9jONXzDjSmD2xoGkF4nZITVTr5P2Dx9hHUQny0uj9f-/s320/IMG_9849.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546445211100048546" /></a>Sweet S. . skating away on a river. . it was a beautiful dance!<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNdg7c4MUoroO3Y2wFg6JuadC9IX72QrfI7wcTPAwP3Q7tdrTLAO5PQFxUJzFGZ_N_FizT0D5Pe2eXE5v-1Y-ZOYfAmQ0zx1LStxy4ILgxcDZiVzfVMQ9bYBlRzl6102qwV0EeBg9frM-j/s1600/IMG_9883.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNdg7c4MUoroO3Y2wFg6JuadC9IX72QrfI7wcTPAwP3Q7tdrTLAO5PQFxUJzFGZ_N_FizT0D5Pe2eXE5v-1Y-ZOYfAmQ0zx1LStxy4ILgxcDZiVzfVMQ9bYBlRzl6102qwV0EeBg9frM-j/s320/IMG_9883.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546442900568928626" /></a><br />And here's. . . . Johnny! Papa will probably hate that I did this. . talk about a grandad giving his support. We love you Papa!<br /><br />Now. . I must go trim some trees, mail some Christmas cards. . and make that figgy pudding!Mom of Elevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393551236211662843noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7327397781579268028.post-25996080743859449482010-10-14T07:29:00.004-04:002010-10-14T09:05:08.476-04:00What's in a Name?-Big T goes to College<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUqKSVCpOBrRLXn6ldINJDWbC4j62m1jLTnIB4TUg5Qblu522TJdqAXUNxBlhwJfwSLsIV0oAEFex2QWH1Vp5KSjMfjNY72yapXslhqmRaPy5Zh7PUjXbr05UbCXAoL3RRSsJlgMon1LkC/s1600/move+in+day.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 239px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUqKSVCpOBrRLXn6ldINJDWbC4j62m1jLTnIB4TUg5Qblu522TJdqAXUNxBlhwJfwSLsIV0oAEFex2QWH1Vp5KSjMfjNY72yapXslhqmRaPy5Zh7PUjXbr05UbCXAoL3RRSsJlgMon1LkC/s320/move+in+day.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5527882721773928738" /></a> Here is Big T on move in day! Precious moment!<br /><br /><br />THIS WILL BE A LONG ONE-WARNING :) YOU WILL NEED SOME TIME TO READ!<br /><br />Growing up in a small town and still living there now, I have come to love the "perk" of knowing many people. Even today one very special friend, <a href="http://georgiamother.blogspot.com/">Georgia Mother</a>, was my back door neighbor when we were preschoolers. The other day I went to the local deli and when they called out, "grilled chicken salad on pita, lettuce and tomato", the owner said, "oh, that's Wendy's, she always orders that". I thought, how sweet and special I feel that someone remembered my name and knows me. . it feels good to be "known". Later that day, I swung into the cleaners drive thru line. The sweet worker brought out my order without me even having to call out my name, she knew me! I thought to myself, "this is what I love about small town life!"<br /><br />Late August, we drove 2 hours southwest to my college alma mater and moved Big T into my former dorm. .talk about surreal. At age 36, I never thought I would be moving one of my children into college where I once loved college life. Some 12 years prior in early August, I began my 2nd year as a first grade school teacher. . a sweet, thin, beautiful girl entered my classroom, her name was Tabitha. I so wish I had a picture of her then, she was precious (still is). She was very smart, and I taught in a lower income school, so many students struggled even with first grade curriculum. Not Tabitha, she was a learner, she got new concepts quickly, she was a happy child. A few months into the school year, Tabitha began to get sleepy during the day often, lay her head down and sleep. I remember vividly her dark, almost black hair laying down on her desk for a quick nap. I would come home and tell J about her, how much I loved her, I felt drawn to her. He told me emphatically, "tell your principal, she can come live with us, whatever she needs" (true story, but boy we were young didn't have a clue how the child care system worked). After talking with our school counselor about some concerns the ball starting rolling on some things and Tabitha and her younger sister went to live with their Grandmother. She was a precious Grandmother, she loved those girls dearly. She would come to parent conference day. . Tabitha was going to be ok. <br /><br />I kept up with Tabitha and her younger sister over the next four years as they stayed at my school, but that year their grandmother would pass away due to a quick illness with liver cancer. Tragic. The girls left our school. . and well, I just lost touch with them. Fast forward to 2002, we had started our current job and were at the local mall carousel. There were the girls, I knew it was them, they were with another couple. I remember saying to one of my older girls, "that's Tabitha, I taught her when she was in first grade, but I don't know those people she is with, but she looks great." I went up and said hi, but I don't even know if Tabitha remembered me, she was still only a 6th grader or so at this point. <br /><br />Fast forward to the spring of 2006, we were very new members at a new church in town and our church was hosting a "girls day" for a local girls home. I went as I had helped arrange for two girls that had grown up in WinShape Homes to give their testimony and speak to the girls in attendance. As I was sitting at a round table, with my friend, I remember telling her, "That's Tabitha ______, I used to teach her" I immediately started making calls, speaking with her mentor, our program director, and anyone I could to see if Tabitha could live with us since I knew we had a spot and she had recently expressed she wanted to live in a home. That was April, that June she moved in and spent her high school years with us. It was always HER, her inner beauty that drew me into her. Her name was unforgettable and I KNEW HER and her story. I loved her. <br /><br />Tabitha had her ups and downs with us, mostly ups. Literally, every year of high school her GPA rose by several points, she quickly adapted to a private, christian high school, gained friends quickly at school and church, got involved, was selected time and time again for leadership opportunities, including one trip to Washington, D. C. She also had many moments she grew frustrated with our rules and guidelines. Even guidelines that our hands were tied on because she wasn't physically our daughter. BUT, we worked through them, I honor Tabitha because unlike my other older girls that lived here, She. stayed. the. course. She has hung in there, EVEN when she didn't love things. I have always bragged about her to my friends and to her, "you know, Tabitha, just gets it. She just gets life." That is a rare gift many in this world don't have. <br /><br />Fast forward to her senior year of high school, she quickly enrolled in SU, was of course accepted, offered a scholarhsip, and the case was closed. She was going. So here I was, in my former dorm, looking at this precious girl, recognizing all along that GOD had orchestrated this moment. HE has always had her in HIS hands, as He does all of us. Not only did I always know her name, HE DID. <br /><br />Fast forward to mid-September, Tabitha had planned all along to go through the rush process. Now for those of you that are anti-sorority, this will further your cause that they are ludicrous and mean to girls. For those that are pro-sorority and were even in one, you will get it, that something wrong happened with Tabitha. She went through rush and REALLY wanted the sorority I had been in at SU. Given that Tabitha was a "legacy", (the daughter of a former member) priority should have been given to her, however, she was dropped from their list before the last day. She of course called me. .and boy did we get the ball rolling. It was a rush emergency. I called all of my friends that knew her, had met her, and they all agreed, a great disservice had been done. A new friend I have never even met face to face, Tabitha's boyfriend's mom sprung to action. WE ALL KNOW her, love her and didn't want her to be hurt. Plus, we knew this group was making a big mistake by not picking her. In the end, there was nothing else we could do, and the verdict stood, maybe she just didn't meet enough people and the numbers weren't there. (It's all in a name, right?) Of course I am probably more crushed than Tabitha at this point, she has handled like a pro and I constantly ask her, "are you ok?" "Yes, mom, I am really fine, I am happy for my friends and still may want that sorority next fall". What a trooper. . she once again, gets life. (even though I am still fuming)<br /><br />Just last night she sent me an email where she has been selected to serve on a special student board within student government simply because, and I quote "your resume and name stood out above all the other applicants". ( I am so proud!) <br /><br />I must be honest, this job and life and motherhood has taken a deep, emotional toll on me. My heart has been crushed by girls that have left, chosen sinful lives based on their "independence". Ultimately, I don't have control, God does. . trusting HIM with their lives is once of the hardest processes I have ever had to learn. He has taken me on the field trip with that now 3 times. (think I've got it God) I pray for Tabitha daily that she too will hold firm to all she has learned and will TRUST HIM for her dependence, not herself. That she will continue to be directed by HIS hand all of her days. I am so thankful God let me be her mother. . <br /><br />I am so thankful that even though those sorority girls didn't "know" her like we all do, that even though MANY people in her small hometown KNOW her well, that even though I and her family KNOW her and her detailed story. . GOD knows her even better. I couldn't help but think of this song as I have been writing this post in my head for a month. . listen below and relish the fact that it is true about YOU too.<br /><br /><object width="480" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/hXsiWoyjw60?fs=1&hl=en_US"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/hXsiWoyjw60?fs=1&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object> YOU WILL NEED TO PRESS PAUSE ON MY PLAYLIST ON THE RIGHT TO LISTEN TO THIS SONG!! (SORRY)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjExew3CcitiAxwEBru7M0Jz6gdSKsv-ihgkVNXQnsnS5X-CMU1nnwh4G8wTI42pW8JDXnu8FJ2C5J-NkbyfE8Fv2pwohGaCZ3MRORhmC9G7qWYjoH35IJRPR-0gUtMcP4t6z6WkhsVj91R/s1600/big+t+with+mom.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 239px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjExew3CcitiAxwEBru7M0Jz6gdSKsv-ihgkVNXQnsnS5X-CMU1nnwh4G8wTI42pW8JDXnu8FJ2C5J-NkbyfE8Fv2pwohGaCZ3MRORhmC9G7qWYjoH35IJRPR-0gUtMcP4t6z6WkhsVj91R/s320/big+t+with+mom.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5527882478858525970" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNQgcycIbx8h8J8Q3Mv2Bl-p0xmADX1REv5D1dD6W6u_qMT1Asapf2WQNjjDRVn6FlpbtsWhNIBmrLE2KARQI31NbQExcz7pCbMKi_bmAlccBWArmTwiOLuS7zM581dXUJjSXtFiSvZ9XE/s1600/tab+with+all+at+fountain.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 239px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNQgcycIbx8h8J8Q3Mv2Bl-p0xmADX1REv5D1dD6W6u_qMT1Asapf2WQNjjDRVn6FlpbtsWhNIBmrLE2KARQI31NbQExcz7pCbMKi_bmAlccBWArmTwiOLuS7zM581dXUJjSXtFiSvZ9XE/s320/tab+with+all+at+fountain.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5527882308183160210" /></a><br />These are pictures from a recent visit to see Tab on Parent's Weekend. This fountain is off the main Quad at SU, I walked by this hundreds of times. What a surreal moment to be there with her. <br /><br />Finally, I wanted to leave you with Tabitha's favorite verse. Romans 8:28 <span style="font-weight:bold;"><span style="font-style:italic;"> And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.<span style="font-weight:bold;"></span></span></span>Mom of Elevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393551236211662843noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7327397781579268028.post-33495575805495348882010-09-09T12:17:00.010-04:002010-09-09T21:47:28.293-04:00Labor Day 2010<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEJaXP8RLb9kIPmKkqZOoYQtzUQYJF0TxE8LGCQF3rvO5yh-eKmsaVO-E7twotmljBMJ9f9HyXwmLwJ7jzsQbLhZ90eHn52g16e2uHR3p5EtiS4Jh7bc2FMKSdrE12ut1al9qg22asebCz/s1600/DSC_4101.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 210px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEJaXP8RLb9kIPmKkqZOoYQtzUQYJF0TxE8LGCQF3rvO5yh-eKmsaVO-E7twotmljBMJ9f9HyXwmLwJ7jzsQbLhZ90eHn52g16e2uHR3p5EtiS4Jh7bc2FMKSdrE12ut1al9qg22asebCz/s320/DSC_4101.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5515095265081666210" /></a><br /><br /><br />How does a worn out mama from summer get refreshed? Time. With. Friends. At. The. Beach!!!!<br /><br />My special group of college gals had our annual Labor Day trip for the 14th year!! Woo-hoo. We all take great pride in the fact that we have kept this up through the years. The number of gals has changed, who can attend due to births of the 45 kids (that was the count with this year's group), and various other reasons. BUT, it remains on all of our calendars with a special asterisk. We all know what the weekend means. Fun. Relaxation. Food. Lots of chatter. Some sleep. Shopping. More chatter. And my favorite, LAUGHTER. <br /><br />My college years hold a special place in my heart and always will. That's another post. But for me these girls, yes, we are still girls, stand for more than college years now. We have gone through weddings, divorces, re-marriages, births, miscarriages, deaths of parents, illnesses of siblings, loss of siblings, jobs, loss of jobs, travels to our various cities. . we've just done life. While not together for most of the calendar year, emails, calls, Christmas cards somehow keep us all connected enough to always start right back up where we left off. It's funny how some relationships can stand the test of time in that way. <br /><br />This summer was an especially hard one for me. Maybe because I'm getting older? Who knows? But this year, the Labor Day trip could NOT have come at a better time. I was weary from summer and needed to refresh and unwind. These special girls always seem to re-energize me. And this mama is better for it. I love you all!!!<br /><br />Enjoy some snaps from our trip!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMBqbd0DlFK0oski7poPdzisOyotaM3CEe7Vxifma8FwE9LTpSXNHHsnHY17_ykKUmkIgnr6AOkd06gto5vNG1HqUUq_J53Si9gAIDDYM3L5mwhMGUWEy5407sESH9EB4JG3Yrp6FVGKeV/s1600/Labor+Day+064.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMBqbd0DlFK0oski7poPdzisOyotaM3CEe7Vxifma8FwE9LTpSXNHHsnHY17_ykKUmkIgnr6AOkd06gto5vNG1HqUUq_J53Si9gAIDDYM3L5mwhMGUWEy5407sESH9EB4JG3Yrp6FVGKeV/s320/Labor+Day+064.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5515092843904197170" /></a> BEFORE!!!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0xXZ48dEBT-i86tJMkzgBinJwR4V2sykN3fjflDpUjFcMedr6jWaa45INdyf2YFk-DLEFWWPbrssAQiRNUNxeTgLWlBmb0uGm8LalGJXmvojYrgxrDCi_vEUJvAhYN8rwVQdw8opCM09X/s1600/Labor+Day+066.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0xXZ48dEBT-i86tJMkzgBinJwR4V2sykN3fjflDpUjFcMedr6jWaa45INdyf2YFk-DLEFWWPbrssAQiRNUNxeTgLWlBmb0uGm8LalGJXmvojYrgxrDCi_vEUJvAhYN8rwVQdw8opCM09X/s320/Labor+Day+066.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5515092395216462050" /></a> AFTER!!!<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfgt3C3JkxvFFFybWax3BJkQhE9foLQ4XVskFi-Tng4s2CUlSZDRjqbRU2Daby_f-80iiw486EyhMytS9WA1tOPS6yYgbfQmilAD15WPsOU20S0z2Pe08ZLro8QDJwYmXkhRuFHJKfKQn7/s1600/Labor+Day+033.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfgt3C3JkxvFFFybWax3BJkQhE9foLQ4XVskFi-Tng4s2CUlSZDRjqbRU2Daby_f-80iiw486EyhMytS9WA1tOPS6yYgbfQmilAD15WPsOU20S0z2Pe08ZLro8QDJwYmXkhRuFHJKfKQn7/s320/Labor+Day+033.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5515093575991822850" /></a> Dinner at my New Favorite: Caliza Pool at Alys Beach!! So fun!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj_RLO1XAoFJYRJtE4gpFdRQtIZHVTDreqp9mlADhKElZyegGZtIDMHzYFEOt3WIzx92LKCmwWGO1FBKltf3-3JWNk8KaX9WQ89Yzrhl4ifyigZ7sYR9iD_Z08ISPGGaKeqxGZHt7DujXG/s1600/Labor+Day+067.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj_RLO1XAoFJYRJtE4gpFdRQtIZHVTDreqp9mlADhKElZyegGZtIDMHzYFEOt3WIzx92LKCmwWGO1FBKltf3-3JWNk8KaX9WQ89Yzrhl4ifyigZ7sYR9iD_Z08ISPGGaKeqxGZHt7DujXG/s320/Labor+Day+067.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5515093317179167250" /></a> Dessert at Fish out of Water at Watercolor!Mom of Elevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393551236211662843noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7327397781579268028.post-63090669452482443512010-08-25T07:50:00.005-04:002010-08-25T08:02:34.962-04:00It's Been Too Long/Back to School!!Well. . has it actually been that long? Two months since I last logged on to post. Sorry to my few followers that search me out to see our latest news. The truth is, I've just been too worn out to sit and write things down, wait for the computer to load pictures, and have patience to get my thoughts down. It's not that I am not posting in my head every day. . I constantly think of things I need to document for myself to remember what my little have done or have said.<br /><br />School season is upon us and summer is quickly fading. (Thank. You. Lord.) Summer for us is like having a mini youth group home every day, they need 3 square meals, an activity planned for sanity's sake, plus keeping all the areas clean. It's been a long summer, but fun, exciting, busy, and restful at times. Hopefully I can play catch up and post about some of our fun summer days. But for now, I must relish in Back to School days.<br /><br />The kids went back last week and I have slowly begun to emerge for a quick breath of fresh air. I love, love my kids. They are funny, intelligent, insightful, entertaining, and just plain darling. BUT. They keep me busy, worn out, ready to collapse at night, and longing for breaks! Back to School brings routine, structure, and down time for us during the day. Big T is headed off to college this Friday and once that happens, it will be official: Everyone is Back to School!! (except little AC of course, she will have to be our sidekick)<br /><br />I took a few pictures last week to save for posterity :)<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5yYCy4SxUAoW8X-Q8RdYJPNJ7l9x5po6yAtvAGfp5T_FaqPiRLoN7BCCjo2Rkya_sUfd5_mphwkyPpKoo_S6Rom25G0Tw9z6VKfzr7Eo2wQfwoSID3PbZnm-CIlhTMsqdPSv6Z8tzquhs/s1600/IMG_9621.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5yYCy4SxUAoW8X-Q8RdYJPNJ7l9x5po6yAtvAGfp5T_FaqPiRLoN7BCCjo2Rkya_sUfd5_mphwkyPpKoo_S6Rom25G0Tw9z6VKfzr7Eo2wQfwoSID3PbZnm-CIlhTMsqdPSv6Z8tzquhs/s320/IMG_9621.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509315297807431458" /></a><br />The entire Lion crew headed back on the first day. Boy were they as eager as I was. . it was the 2nd morning that threw us all for a loop. Rise and Shine was not as pretty that morning.!<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj4UKW7Ikoi0eDmAlVkae2TaoL9VkDu7HOCyRgH76QGORd3rfLk4hJ5lXy-6A9EuJ5W55iD6fBE33C5DeL3pieMeOL8ABK0dAPJfcw50034RDCibstt-dH29ATWngYzSrNlL-eVGCEFQFx/s1600/IMG_9615.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj4UKW7Ikoi0eDmAlVkae2TaoL9VkDu7HOCyRgH76QGORd3rfLk4hJ5lXy-6A9EuJ5W55iD6fBE33C5DeL3pieMeOL8ABK0dAPJfcw50034RDCibstt-dH29ATWngYzSrNlL-eVGCEFQFx/s320/IMG_9615.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509315680963659474" /></a>Little J on his first day of "real" school. Kindergarten is just so fun, isn't it? A new school had him worried when the first morning he told me, "I just don't know what my friends will look like." He was thrilled when he came home and a few kids were from church and tball. Familiar faces made it all better! He loves it.Mom of Elevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393551236211662843noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7327397781579268028.post-14132117588692603982010-06-21T10:17:00.002-04:002010-06-21T10:20:55.576-04:00Another Year Older?Well, Happy Birthday to me!! I can't believe a year has come and gone so fast. 36 years young!! I still feel like a mere 25. My sweet hubby has planned a night of celebration tonight with the entire family at a local restaurant. No clean up, no mess!! I can't wait. But for today, I am headed out for a day of errands with NO KIDS!! Maybe even lunch wherever I want to eat!! Can't wait.<br /><br />I am not one of these people that gets sappy and sad they are getting older. I am totally okay with getting older and wiser. So happy to admit I need a Savior and each year that I can grow closer to Him in His wisdom and knowledge, I will happily embrace.<br /><br />I also love the fact that I share my birthday with the Summer Solstice. It's the longest day of daylight in the year. Just that much longer to enjoy the beauty of MY DAY!! :)Mom of Elevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393551236211662843noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7327397781579268028.post-23298824273350115572010-06-06T22:46:00.003-04:002010-06-06T23:01:33.444-04:00My Little PiratesWe are away on our annual time off. Some kids are away at camp, one is staying with friends and our biological kids are here with us. Tonight we enjoyed our tradition that includes a trek to the "shark store". A fabulous souvenir store that includes and entrance where a shark's teeth greet you as enter. The back exit of the store includes a giant pirate ship with a pirate theme everywhere on the building. I couldn't resist this photo op.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlUCf1SJK3iqhlRo4gAc-gpmgrC_OjLTy08HRo2qzXCySzncJ1XdyF984p6r3CwI0DAzhBgqrPHBtseavvjlN2-uFa4jseAZCskRMJR092DHlhlPUJyuVHGkySBM0VycKqS-PluG6DkDVi/s1600/pirates.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlUCf1SJK3iqhlRo4gAc-gpmgrC_OjLTy08HRo2qzXCySzncJ1XdyF984p6r3CwI0DAzhBgqrPHBtseavvjlN2-uFa4jseAZCskRMJR092DHlhlPUJyuVHGkySBM0VycKqS-PluG6DkDVi/s320/pirates.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5479859147345356226" /></a><br /><br />A warning to all those headed to the Gulf Coast, the oil has made it to Gulf Shores. We were hopeful that we would beat it here, but fellow vacationers reported the nasty balls of tar arrived around Friday afternoon. The water's edge is covered in tiny, thick globs of sticky tar that adheres to anything it touches. Thank goodness we have a pool to swim in. The beach area is great for playing, but no ocean to play in. It is of course only a glimpse of the large portion of shoreline and ocean waters effected by this tragedy. But my eyes have been opened to this severe issue. So. Sad.<br /><br />We will still enjoy our time away. Ann Claire will be celebrating her first birthday this week at the zoo here. . fun times.Mom of Elevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393551236211662843noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7327397781579268028.post-53355602579353481752010-05-03T21:29:00.007-04:002010-05-03T21:53:50.375-04:00Life is GoodJust wanted to send out a hello from Key West. Life is good and I have J to myself for 3 more whole days!! <br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtq7padFDa790vvWO95y-GtEdmKU1akoTICEHseXXv4B2slCY5N4WvagX00xG4kMet11c6yP9RR0Q7x0ynj3-2tw6Go-dP-cqdDIjMzO2oUrkWB4cTX2tnMbilyH8WD_NBMUtKkRNIkDfl/s1600/toes.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtq7padFDa790vvWO95y-GtEdmKU1akoTICEHseXXv4B2slCY5N4WvagX00xG4kMet11c6yP9RR0Q7x0ynj3-2tw6Go-dP-cqdDIjMzO2oUrkWB4cTX2tnMbilyH8WD_NBMUtKkRNIkDfl/s320/toes.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5467224065570138498" /></a>This was my view for most of today. Life is good!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPfbZiiGsy82U4FjXVpWRyjnByjAqsSyTBfxeaSP3kbmkRpVOKk03KpPS3jWsyALm6mJhOUcxXoSQT51mQhMUNxmY_yMAV12ymfM0_4VOc0fQ1bDiAmMljN-ar0fi_Ex0cLIR9yET1G2mP/s1600/j+at+sunset.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPfbZiiGsy82U4FjXVpWRyjnByjAqsSyTBfxeaSP3kbmkRpVOKk03KpPS3jWsyALm6mJhOUcxXoSQT51mQhMUNxmY_yMAV12ymfM0_4VOc0fQ1bDiAmMljN-ar0fi_Ex0cLIR9yET1G2mP/s320/j+at+sunset.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5467226203985127186" /></a><br />That's J in the distance. We ate on the beach tonight and watched the sunset. So romantic. My "normal" life never contains such delights!!Mom of Elevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393551236211662843noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7327397781579268028.post-33527686636377075142010-04-03T08:03:00.003-04:002010-04-03T09:18:06.590-04:00In life and In Death. . .Our friend Shane went home to be with the Lord early this morning. . .what do you say from here? There are so many thoughts circling in my head, I just told J, "I've got to go write!" Shane's sweet, precious wife has known my family since we were little. . her family were member's of my father's church years ago when she was a little girl. I have watched her from a distance growing up in our small town and known her sister as well for years. Life brought us back together as neighbors in the early years of matrimony raising babies under a year old. I always remember seeing each other walk those babies in strollers time and time again. . up and down the street. Those babies are now in 4th grade together. Shane and DeAnn came to join our school family a couple of years ago and we would be "doing life" together again. . as J had gone to college with Shane years ago. It was awesome to be reacquainted with people you just feel good to be with! <br /><br />DeAnn has been a faithful reader of my blog and started her own a few years ago, then of course has kept up with Shane's caring bridge site through these past 5 months. Her faith throughout this journey has amazed me. Right up until Thursday night when she had a minister come and administer communion with her husband and family. The same night our Lord took bread with his closest friends. . .her faith has been unstoppable, her sadness almost palpable, but her hope unrelenting! She has been a rock sustained only by the power of the Lord. To Him be the Glory for that. <br /><br />Today's date marked a benefit for Shane at their local church and has been on the calendar for several weeks. J is on deck to sing with his dad. Yes, sing. J doesn't even sing (don't get me wrong, he sings beautifully, just in the shower). . but on the list of songs is those such as "It is Well with my soul", "Amazing Grace", "The King in Coming". Many of those old favorites that remind us the power of our Lord and His amazing ability to give us grace and peace in times like these. I am praying he can get through the songs! I know I wouldn't be able to. <br /><br />What a precious time to go home to be with the Lord. The very weekend all of Christendom celebrates the Resurrection of our Lord. From Greek orthodox, to Roman Catholics, to Baptists, to Presbyterians. . this weekend is about death and new life! Easter will forever be etched in their families' hearts as a time to celebrate that process. And mine too. <a href="http://jonisjoy.blogspot.com">Joni wrote a beautiful post over here last night. </a> Everything she said has been ringing in my brain since I read it. <a href="http://lotsofscotts.blogspot.com/2010/03/kids-and-grief.html">Our sweet friends J and R have just been through this same process this very week over here. . . </a> And so death. . has been in my face! J and I because of our life with kids and well, it's what we do. . have been drawn to have a heart for Shane and DeAnn's kids. .hurting for them, sad for them. Our children are in class with their kids, so we are just "doing life" with them. My kids love their boys and often tell stories of their funny ways, silly jokes, and friendship. (K actually used to have a "crush" on their son. . DeAnn and I would just giggle over that) My point is, a lot has been circling in my brain this past week. This past week, J drove their middle son over from the lower campus to the upper campus to meet up with the family that has been helping DeAnn with all the ball practices, carpooling, etc. As J was walking S into the school, he said, "can I get on your shoulders?" (remember from my Washington, D. C post, J is 6'5"), riding on his shoulders I'm sure is like a ride at the fair to any 1st grader. J said, "of course". And so S got a ride like none other. In my mind that was like little S saying, "Can you just pick me up and give me a big hug?" <br /><br />I am forever changed by this past week. We are called to be there for the family of believers, in life and in death. Help those you love who are hurting, pick them up, hug them, put them on your shoulders. . be there for them. YOU will be forever changed! And today as I think of Mike Sweeney and Shane Richardson. . I couldn't help but think of this verse in 2 Corinthians, I loved how it was written in The Message, especially special this very weekend!<br /><br /> <span style="font-style:italic;">2 Corinthians 5:6 -8That's why we live with such good cheer. You won't see us drooping our heads or dragging our feet! Cramped conditions here don't get us down. They only remind us of the spacious living conditions ahead. It's what we trust in but don't yet see that keeps us going. Do you suppose a few ruts in the road or rocks in the path are going to stop us? When the time comes, we'll be plenty ready to exchange exile for homecoming.</span><br /><br />The Message (MSG)Mom of Elevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393551236211662843noreply@blogger.com5