I can't believe Christmas has already come and gone. I also can't believe it was just three days ago! There is always so much hurry and stress to get ready and then bam! It's all over!!
We had a wonderful Christmas. Santa must have thought that the girls had been very good this year!! Their "big" gifts this year were Nintendo DS Lites (Jaclyn and Ashley) and an iPod Nano (Caitlin) and speakers. They also got books, a movies and a few other odds and ends. Oh! And they also got a keyboard to play!! The music has just been lovely...not!! Can't wait to get those headphones to go on it!
Caitlin also received tickets to see the Broadway play "Wicked" in Charlotte in April. She was so excited!!! I can't wait to go myself!! It is the hottest show on Broadway and we hear it is excellent!
The girls have spent the week playing their games. They were very happy and content with their gifts.
Dale was a good boy, too. I got him an iPod Shuffle, and an iTunes gift card. He loves that thing. He was very surprised. I also gave him a gift card to Olive Garden and the movies. He gave me diamond earrings (as I said he had been a very good boy) and also gift cards to Carabbas and Outback. Now we can have a few date nights!
We enjoyed spending time with our families on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. It was very nice. I had to return to work Wednesday which was hard to leave my family at home laying around in their jammies. I just wanted to stay home, too!!
(I have already had my Christmas pictures developed so can't wait to get them in an album! I am looking forward to a much needed scrapbooking retreat in February!)
The best part of Christmas was the small ways we were able to help others. On Thursday before Christmas, we were at Cary Towne Center to see Santa Claus. We ate dinner in the food court and there is always a man working in the food court cleaning up after people. He has cerebral palsy and is a little slower moving around. Of course, we can relate to him because of Jaclyn. I sent Caitlin over to ChickfilA to get a $5 gift card.
As we got up to leave, I went over to this man and told him, "You are always here when we are here." He nodded his head and smiled slightly, not sure of what was going on. I then told him, "We just want to wish you a Merry Christmas and to tell you we appreciate you and YOU make a difference." And then handed him the gift card. He started to cry and just shook his head not able to say thank you. We were floating on air when we left.
Another way we helped was to play Santa for our friends Mike and Nancy Joyce. They are a wonderful couple who have adopted the girls as their grandchildren. They have no children of their own. Mike is battling Stage 4 lung cancer and has no insurance. We filled stockings and bought a few small presents and left them on their doorstep on Christmas Eve. They found them Christmas morning. When Nancy called, she was in tears. She said they had laughed and cried all morning.
Those small acts of kindness are what meant the most to us this Christmas. It also made me realize that we need to do more for those people around us who are hurting or lonely. Christmas will be a bit different for us next year...not sure of what we'll do but will be thinking of it.
We are looking forward to a quiet weekend and will celebrate New Year's Eve with our best friends eating and playing Phase 10...our annual tradition!! Hope your New Year is blessed beyond measure!
Love,
Glynis
Friday, December 28, 2007
Sunday, December 23, 2007
Merry Christmas Letter
Well, we enjoyed a balmy 70 degrees today with a high of 55 for Christmas Day. I envy you gals that get snow for Christmas. However, what snow we get here is usually followed by a sheet of ice. That's why Southerners get such a bad rap--it's the ice, ya'll!!!
I have been scurrying around for about 6 weeks getting ready for Christmas and I am sitting here in disbelief that tomorrow is Christmas Eve. The girls are so excited they can't wait! Our house has turned into a Christmas Cottage with lights twinkling everywhere. It is just beautiful and cozy. I have tried to sit and enjoy it every once in a while fighting the urge to get up and finish laundry (which isn't hard to do), dust, and those other annoying chores.
We are blessed with the busyness of life. Homeschooling is going well--Jaclyn and Ashley are really doing good and are so much happier! It hasn't been as hard as I thought it would be. We don't model our school day after a public school day. We do Bible, math and English every day; we do science on Tuesdays and history on Thursdays. We have school for about 3 hours a day. After I leave for work, the girls finish up any unfinished classwork, work on their writing projects, read and practice their music. Another benefit is no homework!!
I am still working at Colonial Baptist Church part time. I enjoy serving in this way. Dale is home during the day so he is with the girls while I'm at work. Creative Memories is holding steady--I am making my minimum with residual orders mainly.
Caitlin--a junior in high school--is loving high school. All she thinks and breathes is band, band, band. She plans to major in music and is interested in Appalachian State, UNC-Greensboro or Western Carolina for college. She got a little red sporty car in July and zips around everywhere. She is a responsible driver, although she doesn't agree with our rule of no friends in the car--she'll get over it. She is a level-headed girl. She is actively involved in orchestra and youth choir and missions trips at church. She's not into boys, clothes, makeup. She has great friends. I think we've done a pretty good job!
Dale has been a 911 dispatcher with the Wake County Sheriff's Office for 2 years and was recently promoted to supervisor. He works 7pm-7am. With this schedule, he is home with the girls and takes them to their afternoon music lessons, doctors appointments, and therapy (Jaclyn). He stays pretty busy!
As we stop to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas, the birth of our God and Savior who came to take our punishment, we pray you will find peace this Christmas. That peace comes from placing your total trust and faith in Him.
Merry Christmas to you and your families!! Remember...
His destiny was the cross.
His reason was love.
His purpose was you!!
Much love, peace and blessings,
Glynis
I have been scurrying around for about 6 weeks getting ready for Christmas and I am sitting here in disbelief that tomorrow is Christmas Eve. The girls are so excited they can't wait! Our house has turned into a Christmas Cottage with lights twinkling everywhere. It is just beautiful and cozy. I have tried to sit and enjoy it every once in a while fighting the urge to get up and finish laundry (which isn't hard to do), dust, and those other annoying chores.
We are blessed with the busyness of life. Homeschooling is going well--Jaclyn and Ashley are really doing good and are so much happier! It hasn't been as hard as I thought it would be. We don't model our school day after a public school day. We do Bible, math and English every day; we do science on Tuesdays and history on Thursdays. We have school for about 3 hours a day. After I leave for work, the girls finish up any unfinished classwork, work on their writing projects, read and practice their music. Another benefit is no homework!!
I am still working at Colonial Baptist Church part time. I enjoy serving in this way. Dale is home during the day so he is with the girls while I'm at work. Creative Memories is holding steady--I am making my minimum with residual orders mainly.
Caitlin--a junior in high school--is loving high school. All she thinks and breathes is band, band, band. She plans to major in music and is interested in Appalachian State, UNC-Greensboro or Western Carolina for college. She got a little red sporty car in July and zips around everywhere. She is a responsible driver, although she doesn't agree with our rule of no friends in the car--she'll get over it. She is a level-headed girl. She is actively involved in orchestra and youth choir and missions trips at church. She's not into boys, clothes, makeup. She has great friends. I think we've done a pretty good job!
Dale has been a 911 dispatcher with the Wake County Sheriff's Office for 2 years and was recently promoted to supervisor. He works 7pm-7am. With this schedule, he is home with the girls and takes them to their afternoon music lessons, doctors appointments, and therapy (Jaclyn). He stays pretty busy!
As we stop to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas, the birth of our God and Savior who came to take our punishment, we pray you will find peace this Christmas. That peace comes from placing your total trust and faith in Him.
Merry Christmas to you and your families!! Remember...
His destiny was the cross.
His reason was love.
His purpose was you!!
Much love, peace and blessings,
Glynis
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Christmas Sweet
Tonight was the premiere of Christmas Sweet 2008--a Christmas dessert concert that our choir/orchestra/youth choirs and drama teams perform each year. Countless hours go into it and it is always spectacular.
I love beginning the Christmas season with this tradition. It helps us focus on the true meaning of Christmas.
Caitlin was part of a percussion ensemble that played an awesome arrangment of "Little Drummer Boy". It was amazing--a 9-piece ensemble. She played the quints (think the drummers in marching band carrying the 5 drums). That is what she played and her drumsticks were flying. I am so proud!
She is also part of the Singing Waiters which is the high school choir. They wait on the tables and then take part in skits and always do an excellent job singing. It was fantastic.
The girls invited their adopted grandparents to go with us--Mike and Nancy Joyce. They are the sweetest couple and love our girls and our girls love them. Please pray for Mike who has recently been diagnosed with lung cancer. He is undergoing daily radiation and we can begin to see how tired he is. They are waiting for results of a lung biopsy. Pray that the results are favorable. We are praying for complete healing--we know God is a God of miracles!
As your Christmas season gets underway, we pray that you will remember the true meaning of Christmas and share Christ this year--he is the greatest gift of all.
Blessings to you,
Glynis
I love beginning the Christmas season with this tradition. It helps us focus on the true meaning of Christmas.
Caitlin was part of a percussion ensemble that played an awesome arrangment of "Little Drummer Boy". It was amazing--a 9-piece ensemble. She played the quints (think the drummers in marching band carrying the 5 drums). That is what she played and her drumsticks were flying. I am so proud!
She is also part of the Singing Waiters which is the high school choir. They wait on the tables and then take part in skits and always do an excellent job singing. It was fantastic.
The girls invited their adopted grandparents to go with us--Mike and Nancy Joyce. They are the sweetest couple and love our girls and our girls love them. Please pray for Mike who has recently been diagnosed with lung cancer. He is undergoing daily radiation and we can begin to see how tired he is. They are waiting for results of a lung biopsy. Pray that the results are favorable. We are praying for complete healing--we know God is a God of miracles!
As your Christmas season gets underway, we pray that you will remember the true meaning of Christmas and share Christ this year--he is the greatest gift of all.
Blessings to you,
Glynis
Monday, November 19, 2007
Survival Update
Several of you have asked how is homeschooling going...made me realized that I haven't updated that part of our lives lately!
We survived our first 9 weeks and I still have hair! That's a plus!! The girls made straight A's on their report card! They are very proud and worked very hard for it. I have the personality that I want to challenge them, stretch them and make them grow. They didn't get those A's easy.
We are doing alot of unit studies so they are learning about the same topics in language arts, history and science on slightly different levels. They love to challenge each other--a little friendly competition--but they are encouraging each other. If one doesn't get a great grade, the other will encourage her to try again and do better next time. It is wonderful to see.
It is definitely easier to homeschool than I thought. If I can do it, believe me anybody can do it. I can definitely come up with a long lists of "why to homeschool" vs. "why to not homeschool".
Sure, there are sacrifices but they are so worth it!! My children are worth it!
We survived our first 9 weeks and I still have hair! That's a plus!! The girls made straight A's on their report card! They are very proud and worked very hard for it. I have the personality that I want to challenge them, stretch them and make them grow. They didn't get those A's easy.
We are doing alot of unit studies so they are learning about the same topics in language arts, history and science on slightly different levels. They love to challenge each other--a little friendly competition--but they are encouraging each other. If one doesn't get a great grade, the other will encourage her to try again and do better next time. It is wonderful to see.
It is definitely easier to homeschool than I thought. If I can do it, believe me anybody can do it. I can definitely come up with a long lists of "why to homeschool" vs. "why to not homeschool".
Sure, there are sacrifices but they are so worth it!! My children are worth it!
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Thank You God for...
My financial struggles - because they make me depend on and trust You, while keeping my focus on the right things;
My weary, tired, sleep deprived body that reminds me to wait on You to gain new strength;
My lack of time to get everything done today on my “to do” list that forces me to constantly be looking to see if my priorities are in order;
My frustrations with others bad/negative attitudes, complaining, unsupportive comments that are a reminder of my own imperfections and Your grace that abounds to me despite them;
My continual battle with bad habits, sins and control issues as they keep me humble
not letting things always go “my way” because Your ways are better than my ways;
This often times messy, disappointing, depressing, conflicted, hostile, unforgiving, suffering world we live in because it makes me long for my real home with You!
What struggles, hardships, conflicts, imperfections or problems are you thankful for, in or through today?
“In everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16
“always giving thanks for all things” Ephesians 5:20
My weary, tired, sleep deprived body that reminds me to wait on You to gain new strength;
My lack of time to get everything done today on my “to do” list that forces me to constantly be looking to see if my priorities are in order;
My frustrations with others bad/negative attitudes, complaining, unsupportive comments that are a reminder of my own imperfections and Your grace that abounds to me despite them;
My continual battle with bad habits, sins and control issues as they keep me humble
not letting things always go “my way” because Your ways are better than my ways;
This often times messy, disappointing, depressing, conflicted, hostile, unforgiving, suffering world we live in because it makes me long for my real home with You!
What struggles, hardships, conflicts, imperfections or problems are you thankful for, in or through today?
“In everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16
“always giving thanks for all things” Ephesians 5:20
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
October 24, 2007
Today was a wonderful rainy day. I love rainy days--that is when I can stay home in my jammies, read, watch tv, scrapbook, take a nap. But today's rain was a blessing to us here in the hot dry south. While the rain didn't make a dent in our drought situation, it was refreshing. I couldn't help but praise the Lord this morning when I woke up to that wonderful sound of rain hitting the roof. I love the sound of rain on the leaves.
A couple of weeks ago while doing bible study with Jaclyn and Ashley, we read in Psalms how God always provides for us even in times of drought. We were reassured through scripture that He is always looking out for us. While many worry with the lack of water, we were confident in the fact that the Lord will provide for us. This afternoon after the rain stopped and the sun was trying to peek out, I happened to glance out the door at church and there was a beautiful rainbow stretched across the sky. It was a confirmation to me that our God supplies all our needs.
I can't believe that next week will be November and we're still in the 80's here. We haven't even dug out our fall clothes or coats yet. While I prefer warm weather over cold, I do miss the brisk autumn days. We are seeing a little fall color, but with the drought the colors haven't been as vibrant as in the past.
Fall is my family's favorite time of year. The girls love decorating for the fall season and look forward to the first fire in the fireplace (don't know when that will be). We love snuggling under blankets reading a book, drinking hot cider or hot chocolate. They are looking forward to trick-or-treating next week. I treasure these moments as I know that tomorrow they will be memories.
Caitlin is loving marching band. They have had three competitions so far this year and have placed second or higher in the different categories and second overall in each competition. They have one more competition this weekend in Sanford and then she has her concert band concert next week. She is thorougly enjoying playing in the youth and adult orchestra at church (she plays percussion and french horn). Music is her life. She eats, sleeps and breathes it. I'm glad she's found something that she loves to do. She plans to pursue her dream of being a high school band teacher. I'm glad she's going to do something she loves.
Ashley and Jaclyn are doing so well at homeschool. It is amazing what you can get done in a few hours without the distractions of 25 other kids in the room! We do about 3 hours of school in the morning, break for lunch and they work on their projects, etc. in the afternoons. They are loving it, they are getting along with one another better, and they are learning! That's all you can ask for.
Well, better go get some sleep. Tomorrow is our long day. We have our homeschool co-op at church in the morning, then the girls hang out in the office with me and then it's off to get supper and back to church for soccer. Whew. Makes me tired just thinking about it...
A couple of weeks ago while doing bible study with Jaclyn and Ashley, we read in Psalms how God always provides for us even in times of drought. We were reassured through scripture that He is always looking out for us. While many worry with the lack of water, we were confident in the fact that the Lord will provide for us. This afternoon after the rain stopped and the sun was trying to peek out, I happened to glance out the door at church and there was a beautiful rainbow stretched across the sky. It was a confirmation to me that our God supplies all our needs.
I can't believe that next week will be November and we're still in the 80's here. We haven't even dug out our fall clothes or coats yet. While I prefer warm weather over cold, I do miss the brisk autumn days. We are seeing a little fall color, but with the drought the colors haven't been as vibrant as in the past.
Fall is my family's favorite time of year. The girls love decorating for the fall season and look forward to the first fire in the fireplace (don't know when that will be). We love snuggling under blankets reading a book, drinking hot cider or hot chocolate. They are looking forward to trick-or-treating next week. I treasure these moments as I know that tomorrow they will be memories.
Caitlin is loving marching band. They have had three competitions so far this year and have placed second or higher in the different categories and second overall in each competition. They have one more competition this weekend in Sanford and then she has her concert band concert next week. She is thorougly enjoying playing in the youth and adult orchestra at church (she plays percussion and french horn). Music is her life. She eats, sleeps and breathes it. I'm glad she's found something that she loves to do. She plans to pursue her dream of being a high school band teacher. I'm glad she's going to do something she loves.
Ashley and Jaclyn are doing so well at homeschool. It is amazing what you can get done in a few hours without the distractions of 25 other kids in the room! We do about 3 hours of school in the morning, break for lunch and they work on their projects, etc. in the afternoons. They are loving it, they are getting along with one another better, and they are learning! That's all you can ask for.
Well, better go get some sleep. Tomorrow is our long day. We have our homeschool co-op at church in the morning, then the girls hang out in the office with me and then it's off to get supper and back to church for soccer. Whew. Makes me tired just thinking about it...
Monday, September 17, 2007
God is SOOOO Good!
Last week I was on the verge of a nervous breakdown. Things at work had been crazy and stressful and add homeschooling and mom stuff on top of that and I was about to lose my mind! I prayed to the Lord to relieve my stress and anxiety. I also prayed for an opportunity to take some time off work.
Less than 12 hours later, I took a phone call in my office on Tuesday at 3:30pm. A couple in our church has a beach condo that was sitting empty and paid for. They were unable to use it because of medical problems. I said, "You mean it's free?" and she said "yes". I asked when check out was and she said Saturday at 10am. I said I'd take it!!
Jaclyn, Ashley and I headed to Myrtle Beach bright and early Wednesday. We stayed at the Mariott Ocean Watch Villas in an ocean front two bedroom condo. It was BEAUTIFUL! The most luxurious place I've ever stayed other than Hilton Head. We ran to the grocery store to get our groceries for the week. The Marriott had a Starbucks and a market, kid's activities, and the most comfortable bed! Made me realize how bad we need a new mattress when I didn't wake up with a backache. (I usually wake up several times each night at home because my back hurts so bad). "Lord, please provide a new mattress for us!" :)
Wednesday afternoon and evening it rained but it stopped about 9pm so we headed to the jacuzzi and pool for a late night swim. We had taken our school books to do a little school work while we were there. The weatherman was calling for rain Thursday and Friday. So I told the girls that we'd do school during the rain showers. Guess what!!! NO RAIN!! The weather was beautiful!!! We swam and soaked in the sun all day Thursday and Friday.
We were sad to leave on Saturday but ready to get home and see Dale and Caitlin--oh yeah, poor babies, they couldn't go. Dale's supervisor is on vacation and he was in charge so he couldn't come down and Caitlin was in school. We were really disappointed--really!!
We are so thankful for the kindness and goodness of a stranger. I told her how much I needed this getaway and she was thankful that she could help. God is good all the time--all the time God is good!
Less than 12 hours later, I took a phone call in my office on Tuesday at 3:30pm. A couple in our church has a beach condo that was sitting empty and paid for. They were unable to use it because of medical problems. I said, "You mean it's free?" and she said "yes". I asked when check out was and she said Saturday at 10am. I said I'd take it!!
Jaclyn, Ashley and I headed to Myrtle Beach bright and early Wednesday. We stayed at the Mariott Ocean Watch Villas in an ocean front two bedroom condo. It was BEAUTIFUL! The most luxurious place I've ever stayed other than Hilton Head. We ran to the grocery store to get our groceries for the week. The Marriott had a Starbucks and a market, kid's activities, and the most comfortable bed! Made me realize how bad we need a new mattress when I didn't wake up with a backache. (I usually wake up several times each night at home because my back hurts so bad). "Lord, please provide a new mattress for us!" :)
Wednesday afternoon and evening it rained but it stopped about 9pm so we headed to the jacuzzi and pool for a late night swim. We had taken our school books to do a little school work while we were there. The weatherman was calling for rain Thursday and Friday. So I told the girls that we'd do school during the rain showers. Guess what!!! NO RAIN!! The weather was beautiful!!! We swam and soaked in the sun all day Thursday and Friday.
We were sad to leave on Saturday but ready to get home and see Dale and Caitlin--oh yeah, poor babies, they couldn't go. Dale's supervisor is on vacation and he was in charge so he couldn't come down and Caitlin was in school. We were really disappointed--really!!
We are so thankful for the kindness and goodness of a stranger. I told her how much I needed this getaway and she was thankful that she could help. God is good all the time--all the time God is good!
Friday, September 7, 2007
Take Me Out to the Ballgame
Today was opening day for the "Miracle League of the Triangle". This is a league for special needs children to play baseball. (More info at www.miracleleagueofthetriangle.com). Jaclyn was so excited about playing baseball. This is her first year so we didn't know what to expect. When we arrived, everyone was so friendly. The kids were excited. Jaclyn recognized a couple of kids from school, so a couple of friends from church, and we saw kids that we used to go to therapy that we haven't seen in a while.
There were kids in wheelchairs and using walkers, all shapes, sizes and different abilities. I tell you when the first couple of kids got up to bat, hit the ball and took off to first base you just had to wipe away a tear! Every child deserves to play baseball and and I am so impressed with this organization. Each player has a "buddy" that goes to bat with them, runs with them and is with them in the outfield.
Jaclyn's coach asked if Jaclyn had a nickname and a favorite song they could play over the loudspeaker as she batted. We told him her nickname was "Wacky Jacky" and her favorite song is "I Will Give You All My Worship". They would have played it but they didn't have the music so we'll take it to them next week. Can you imagine her at bat with the lyrics "I will give You all my worship, I will give You all my praise. You alone I long to worship. You alone are worthy of my praise."? What a testimony of the Lord's blessings on Jaclyn's life.
Jaclyn got up to bat twice and hit the ball and made two runs! The smile on her face was priceless! Everyone cheered for her and she did great!! She went to sleep tonight tired but with a smile on her face--so glad she can play ball!
Next game is next Saturday at 12:30 at Adams Elementary in Cary if you want to join us next week!
There were kids in wheelchairs and using walkers, all shapes, sizes and different abilities. I tell you when the first couple of kids got up to bat, hit the ball and took off to first base you just had to wipe away a tear! Every child deserves to play baseball and and I am so impressed with this organization. Each player has a "buddy" that goes to bat with them, runs with them and is with them in the outfield.
Jaclyn's coach asked if Jaclyn had a nickname and a favorite song they could play over the loudspeaker as she batted. We told him her nickname was "Wacky Jacky" and her favorite song is "I Will Give You All My Worship". They would have played it but they didn't have the music so we'll take it to them next week. Can you imagine her at bat with the lyrics "I will give You all my worship, I will give You all my praise. You alone I long to worship. You alone are worthy of my praise."? What a testimony of the Lord's blessings on Jaclyn's life.
Jaclyn got up to bat twice and hit the ball and made two runs! The smile on her face was priceless! Everyone cheered for her and she did great!! She went to sleep tonight tired but with a smile on her face--so glad she can play ball!
Next game is next Saturday at 12:30 at Adams Elementary in Cary if you want to join us next week!
Monday, August 27, 2007
August 17, 2007--Today
Someone reminded me that it has been three weeks since I posted last. SORRY! The puppy chewed the cord to my laptop which I haven't replaced yet so I haven't been on the computer quite as much!
Summer is slowly winding down although the heat says otherwise! It's been around 100 degrees here for the past two weeks and the humidity is awful. We desperately need some rain! I've been trying to cut back on our water consumption so our well doesn't go dry. HA!! My laundry piles up so fast that if I don't do at least 3 loads a day it is overwhelming!! Hopefully the rain they are predicting this week will give us a much needed soaking!
We started homeschooling last Wednesday. I was very nervous. We opened the day in prayer and praised the Lord for the freedom to homeschool. It is going very well and the girls have said over and over "thank you for homeschooling us, Mom". We have a very laid back approach to ease us into it. We have a huge homeschool co-op at church with 520 kids. We go on Thursday mornings and Ashley is taking Math and NC History. Jaclyn is taking Asian Cooking and General Science. It is very interesting learning science from a biblical view for a change!!
Caitlin started school today. She is excited about her classes. Last Friday, the marching band performed in their uniforms for the first time in school history and they did their routine at half time. It was impressive! They did a great job. She is loving band and also plays in the orchestra at our church and takes French Horn lessons. I see a musical future in this girl's eyes! We can't believe that in two years we'll be taking her to college somewhere! My how time flies!!
The Lord continues to amaze me with his goodness and grace to us. He is an Almighty Powerful God! I never could have guessed for my life to be so richly blessed. His love endures forever! Amen!
Summer is slowly winding down although the heat says otherwise! It's been around 100 degrees here for the past two weeks and the humidity is awful. We desperately need some rain! I've been trying to cut back on our water consumption so our well doesn't go dry. HA!! My laundry piles up so fast that if I don't do at least 3 loads a day it is overwhelming!! Hopefully the rain they are predicting this week will give us a much needed soaking!
We started homeschooling last Wednesday. I was very nervous. We opened the day in prayer and praised the Lord for the freedom to homeschool. It is going very well and the girls have said over and over "thank you for homeschooling us, Mom". We have a very laid back approach to ease us into it. We have a huge homeschool co-op at church with 520 kids. We go on Thursday mornings and Ashley is taking Math and NC History. Jaclyn is taking Asian Cooking and General Science. It is very interesting learning science from a biblical view for a change!!
Caitlin started school today. She is excited about her classes. Last Friday, the marching band performed in their uniforms for the first time in school history and they did their routine at half time. It was impressive! They did a great job. She is loving band and also plays in the orchestra at our church and takes French Horn lessons. I see a musical future in this girl's eyes! We can't believe that in two years we'll be taking her to college somewhere! My how time flies!!
The Lord continues to amaze me with his goodness and grace to us. He is an Almighty Powerful God! I never could have guessed for my life to be so richly blessed. His love endures forever! Amen!
Tuesday, August 7, 2007
It's Hot!
Can I just say it is hot here! Someone who just moved here this past spring asked me when it gets really hot. I told her "as soon as you step outdoors and feel your makeup sliding off your face...that's it". Well, today was one of those days and there's no relief in sight.
Caitlin is sick with strept throat. She is supposed to start band camp Thursday and her throat is so swollen she may not get to go this week. She is pretty bummed but we're praying she'll feel better soon.
We are getting excited about starting school soon. I think we're set to begin next week! I am getting nervous--but not getting cold feet!!
I am hoping to get some work done in my albums tomorrow night. I haven't scrapbooked in several months and am getting behind which makes me nervous. I don't like to be behind!! It will be fun just sitting down and scrapbooking!
Caitlin is sick with strept throat. She is supposed to start band camp Thursday and her throat is so swollen she may not get to go this week. She is pretty bummed but we're praying she'll feel better soon.
We are getting excited about starting school soon. I think we're set to begin next week! I am getting nervous--but not getting cold feet!!
I am hoping to get some work done in my albums tomorrow night. I haven't scrapbooked in several months and am getting behind which makes me nervous. I don't like to be behind!! It will be fun just sitting down and scrapbooking!
Ashley's Birthday Part 2
Ashley and I had a wonderful time together last weekend! I love making these memories with my girls! The only thing Ashley knew about our trip was that we were staying at a bed and breakfast inn.
She went in to work with me Friday since I was only working for two hours. She kept asking where we were going. No spoilers from me!
We started driving west and eventually ended up in Concord, NC--home of Nascar and Lowe's Motor Speedway--sorry!--and we drove to my friend Robin's house. Ashley wasn't quite sure what was going on and then she saw Robin. Robin was so sweet and had a bouquet of balloons and a sign waiting for her that said "Happy Birthday, Ashley!" It was so sweet! I told Ashley that this was the BnB we were staying at.
From there, the three of us went to Concord Mills for a couple of hours. The first thing we did was ride the carousel. Then we went to TGIFriday's for dinner. After dinner, we drove to the big city of Charlotte. As we approached the theater, Ashley saw the sign for "THE LION KING". With big eyes, she asked if were going to see The Lion King and she was so excited when I told her we were.
The play was very good...we had good seats in the box and could see everything. It was amazing--the costumes were fantastic. It amazes me the creativity and imagination some people are blessed with. We enjoyed the play and then headed back to Robin's.
On Saturday, we slept in. After breakfast, we went to the memorial gardens in Concord where Robin tooks pictures of Ashley. They are beautiful! Ashley loves flowers so she really enjoyed the gardens! We could have stayed there longer but it was getting so hot we had to go. From there, Robin took us to "Plaster Creations". Ashley was in heaven! Next to shopping, anything artsy and has paint is her favorite thing. She picked a cute puppy and painted her to look like our Sophie. It turned out very cute! After lunch at Cici's pizza, it was time to head home.
We had a wonderful time together. Ashley asked if she could turn 10 again. She is a blessing to our family and brings a song to our hearts. We love her so much! Thank you, Lord, for our sweet Ashley!
She went in to work with me Friday since I was only working for two hours. She kept asking where we were going. No spoilers from me!
We started driving west and eventually ended up in Concord, NC--home of Nascar and Lowe's Motor Speedway--sorry!--and we drove to my friend Robin's house. Ashley wasn't quite sure what was going on and then she saw Robin. Robin was so sweet and had a bouquet of balloons and a sign waiting for her that said "Happy Birthday, Ashley!" It was so sweet! I told Ashley that this was the BnB we were staying at.
From there, the three of us went to Concord Mills for a couple of hours. The first thing we did was ride the carousel. Then we went to TGIFriday's for dinner. After dinner, we drove to the big city of Charlotte. As we approached the theater, Ashley saw the sign for "THE LION KING". With big eyes, she asked if were going to see The Lion King and she was so excited when I told her we were.
The play was very good...we had good seats in the box and could see everything. It was amazing--the costumes were fantastic. It amazes me the creativity and imagination some people are blessed with. We enjoyed the play and then headed back to Robin's.
On Saturday, we slept in. After breakfast, we went to the memorial gardens in Concord where Robin tooks pictures of Ashley. They are beautiful! Ashley loves flowers so she really enjoyed the gardens! We could have stayed there longer but it was getting so hot we had to go. From there, Robin took us to "Plaster Creations". Ashley was in heaven! Next to shopping, anything artsy and has paint is her favorite thing. She picked a cute puppy and painted her to look like our Sophie. It turned out very cute! After lunch at Cici's pizza, it was time to head home.
We had a wonderful time together. Ashley asked if she could turn 10 again. She is a blessing to our family and brings a song to our hearts. We love her so much! Thank you, Lord, for our sweet Ashley!
Wednesday, August 1, 2007
Happy Birthday, Ashley!
Today, my baby turned 10 years old. I can't believe she is 10 already. The years have flown by. It seems like only yesterday we were at the hospital holding her and rocking her. She is our sunshine.
I am very sentimental when it comes to Ashley. Everyone says the baby of the family is spoiled and I know why that is true. Because her firsts--her first words, her first tooth, her first steps, her first day of school--will be our last time to experience those things. I want to hold on to her and tell time to slow down. She is growing up too fast.
I pray the same for all three of the girls...that they will grow up and follow the Lord and follow His calling on their lives. I pray that they will serve Him and trust in Him to direct their paths.
Ashley came in about 8:30 this morning and counted down the minutes until she was officially 10 at 8:59. I went to work and then met everyone at Red Robin for her birthday. My mom and dad and Dale's parents met us to celebrate. We had a great time. Ashley was so sweet yesterday and asked Dale if he would buy her flowers for her birthday. So today, he went and bought a dozen of yellow roses and took them to the restaurant. They brought them out to her...her eyes just lit up! I had bought a cake with yellow roses not knowing he had bought yellow roses--how neat is that! Well, to my surprise, he had bought me pink roses! What a sweetie!
On Friday, I am taking her on a mother-daughter overnight trip. I do this for each one on their 10th birthday. She doesn't know where we're going, so I won't post that until afterwards so the surprise doesn't get spoiled.
Will keep you posted...
Glynis
I am very sentimental when it comes to Ashley. Everyone says the baby of the family is spoiled and I know why that is true. Because her firsts--her first words, her first tooth, her first steps, her first day of school--will be our last time to experience those things. I want to hold on to her and tell time to slow down. She is growing up too fast.
I pray the same for all three of the girls...that they will grow up and follow the Lord and follow His calling on their lives. I pray that they will serve Him and trust in Him to direct their paths.
Ashley came in about 8:30 this morning and counted down the minutes until she was officially 10 at 8:59. I went to work and then met everyone at Red Robin for her birthday. My mom and dad and Dale's parents met us to celebrate. We had a great time. Ashley was so sweet yesterday and asked Dale if he would buy her flowers for her birthday. So today, he went and bought a dozen of yellow roses and took them to the restaurant. They brought them out to her...her eyes just lit up! I had bought a cake with yellow roses not knowing he had bought yellow roses--how neat is that! Well, to my surprise, he had bought me pink roses! What a sweetie!
On Friday, I am taking her on a mother-daughter overnight trip. I do this for each one on their 10th birthday. She doesn't know where we're going, so I won't post that until afterwards so the surprise doesn't get spoiled.
Will keep you posted...
Glynis
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Vacation Update
We had a wonderful week in the mountains of Tennessee last week. The temperature never reached above 80 degrees and in spite of a few nights of rain, our tents did not leak. Praise the Lord! Our electric blankets and heater kept us warm at night--yes, you did read that right. My philosophy of camping is "If momma ain't happy, nobody's happy" so electric blankets and heaters are a must have.
We spent as much time as possible relaxing at our campsite which was right on the mountain stream. I think the mountain stream is my most favorite thing in nature. I love to hear the merry murmur as it dances over the rocks. I dream of having a log cabin in the mountains right by a brook, stream or river.
On Tuesday, we went to Cades Cove and saw how settlers lived. Log cabins, churches, a grist mill, and blacksmith's shop had been preserved. We saw turkey, deer and even a bear cub along the path.
On Thursday, we went to Pigeon Forge and saw the production "The Miracle". It is an outstanding musical drama on the battle of good vs. evil. We had front row seats and loved it. The performers and music were outstanding. If you're ever in Pigeon Forge, it is a must see! It was very eye-opening for us about how Satan is everywhere--from the birth of Jesus to the crucifixion to our homes and world today. It made us very aware that he prowls constantly and takes delight when we make wrong choices.
During intermission, Jaclyn said, "I can't wait to meet Jesus--the real Jesus--and I hope it's soon." I know she is ready to go to heaven. I thank the Lord that my children have accepted Him as their Savior and that we will be together for eternity. We pray the same for your family.
After the show, the performers were available for autographs and pictures which tickled the girls. The guy who played Jesus told Jaclyn he knew that she enjoyed the show just by the expression on her face. She gave him a hug and told him how much she enjoyed the show.
You can check it out at www.themiracle.com.
We left reluctantly Saturday and headed home. Our week was way too short and we could have stayed another week. This was our second year camping at Jellystone Campground in Gatlinburg. The owners are Christians and it is very family-oriented. Jaclyn and Ashley enjoyed going to Bible School each morning. A missions team from Smoke Rise Baptist Church in Stone Mountain, Georgia, led the VBS. Jaclyn has a life long friend in Mr. Bruce...a very special helper at VBS. We have to plan a trip to go visit them in Stone Mountain.
We thank the Lord for a safe trip and that we are home. We are missing the cool mountain air in this stifling hot heat and humidity here! Hope you are staying cool and having a great summer!
We spent as much time as possible relaxing at our campsite which was right on the mountain stream. I think the mountain stream is my most favorite thing in nature. I love to hear the merry murmur as it dances over the rocks. I dream of having a log cabin in the mountains right by a brook, stream or river.
On Tuesday, we went to Cades Cove and saw how settlers lived. Log cabins, churches, a grist mill, and blacksmith's shop had been preserved. We saw turkey, deer and even a bear cub along the path.
On Thursday, we went to Pigeon Forge and saw the production "The Miracle". It is an outstanding musical drama on the battle of good vs. evil. We had front row seats and loved it. The performers and music were outstanding. If you're ever in Pigeon Forge, it is a must see! It was very eye-opening for us about how Satan is everywhere--from the birth of Jesus to the crucifixion to our homes and world today. It made us very aware that he prowls constantly and takes delight when we make wrong choices.
During intermission, Jaclyn said, "I can't wait to meet Jesus--the real Jesus--and I hope it's soon." I know she is ready to go to heaven. I thank the Lord that my children have accepted Him as their Savior and that we will be together for eternity. We pray the same for your family.
After the show, the performers were available for autographs and pictures which tickled the girls. The guy who played Jesus told Jaclyn he knew that she enjoyed the show just by the expression on her face. She gave him a hug and told him how much she enjoyed the show.
You can check it out at www.themiracle.com.
We left reluctantly Saturday and headed home. Our week was way too short and we could have stayed another week. This was our second year camping at Jellystone Campground in Gatlinburg. The owners are Christians and it is very family-oriented. Jaclyn and Ashley enjoyed going to Bible School each morning. A missions team from Smoke Rise Baptist Church in Stone Mountain, Georgia, led the VBS. Jaclyn has a life long friend in Mr. Bruce...a very special helper at VBS. We have to plan a trip to go visit them in Stone Mountain.
We thank the Lord for a safe trip and that we are home. We are missing the cool mountain air in this stifling hot heat and humidity here! Hope you are staying cool and having a great summer!
Friday, July 20, 2007
Catching up...
I know! It's been a while since I posted anything! We are going on vacation tomorrow with our best friends. This is our annual redneck camping trip. We are headed to the Great Smokey Mountains near Gatlinburg, TN.
We always have a blast. I'll fill you in....gotta go pack!
PS--Caitlin arrived home from NYC/CT safe and sound last Thursday. She had a great trip and actually witness a live police chase--criminal ran right by her, cop had gun drawn. Quite an experience for our small town country gal. Thanks for your prayers!
We always have a blast. I'll fill you in....gotta go pack!
PS--Caitlin arrived home from NYC/CT safe and sound last Thursday. She had a great trip and actually witness a live police chase--criminal ran right by her, cop had gun drawn. Quite an experience for our small town country gal. Thanks for your prayers!
Monday, July 9, 2007
News from the Mission Field
Caitlin called this morning from her missions trip in NYC and Stamford, CT. They are having a great time. Their hotel was evacuated early this morning due to a fire (a kitchen fire), everyone is fine and they were back in their hotel around 8:30am. This delayed their morning excursion a bit, but they were headed out about 10am.
Part of the team is teaching a soccer camp and they had ordered 60 soccer balls to give to the kids; however, the ball company did not have a record of their order, so they are going to have to hunt down 60 soccer balls and pay regular retail prices for them. This is where the extra monies raised comes in handy.
I cannot wait to tell my grandmother (Caitlin's great-grandmother) the following news...Caitlin took French last year which Grandmother told her was a "waste of time"..."when would she ever use French?". I told her, "Grandmother, you never know that Caitlin may be called to the mission field in France." Well, Caitlin talked with a French woman yesterday AND LED HER TO THE LORD IN FRENCH!!!! She was so excited!!! Your prayers for her are helping her be confident in sharing the message with others! Please keep praying for her boldness to share the gospel!!
I am so grateful that the Lord has blessed me with such an amazing daughter. It is an awesome responsbility--and the most important responsibility of a parent--to train a child in the way he/she should go. Dale and I realized that one day we will be held accountable for our decisions and the way we trained our children, so it is a job that we don't take lightly. Our children love the Lord with all their heart and want to please Him and serve Him. I pray daily that they will be difference-makers and always live for Him, giving Him first place in their lives and giving Him their best!
Will keep you updated!! Thanks for your prayers!
Part of the team is teaching a soccer camp and they had ordered 60 soccer balls to give to the kids; however, the ball company did not have a record of their order, so they are going to have to hunt down 60 soccer balls and pay regular retail prices for them. This is where the extra monies raised comes in handy.
I cannot wait to tell my grandmother (Caitlin's great-grandmother) the following news...Caitlin took French last year which Grandmother told her was a "waste of time"..."when would she ever use French?". I told her, "Grandmother, you never know that Caitlin may be called to the mission field in France." Well, Caitlin talked with a French woman yesterday AND LED HER TO THE LORD IN FRENCH!!!! She was so excited!!! Your prayers for her are helping her be confident in sharing the message with others! Please keep praying for her boldness to share the gospel!!
I am so grateful that the Lord has blessed me with such an amazing daughter. It is an awesome responsbility--and the most important responsibility of a parent--to train a child in the way he/she should go. Dale and I realized that one day we will be held accountable for our decisions and the way we trained our children, so it is a job that we don't take lightly. Our children love the Lord with all their heart and want to please Him and serve Him. I pray daily that they will be difference-makers and always live for Him, giving Him first place in their lives and giving Him their best!
Will keep you updated!! Thanks for your prayers!
Thursday, July 5, 2007
Good Ol' Summertime!!
The past two weeks have busy! Caitlin is getting more comfortable driving and is very eager to run errands for us--imagine that. She is driving Dale's big truck which is nerve wracking for her--especially if she has to park in a crowded parking lot--like over at Crossroads Chaos. That parking lot is terrible. She is eagerly looking a car and we'll probably get one--as soon as the money tree in the back yard blooms. Hee! Hee!!
We had some excitement two weeks ago. To make a long story short, our best friend was watching Jaclyn and Ashley and their Great Dane bit Ashley. The dog was totally unprovoked and attacked Ashley as she walked back in the house. The dog bit her arm--two nice punctures on her forearm and a huge bruise and scratches on her bicep. Then he bit the back of her leg for two more nice punctures. The bites were pretty bad, but fortunately she didn't need any stitches or surgery. She had to have a tetanus shot and take a strong antibiotic. She was pretty sore for about a week. It was quite a scary experience. We praise the Lord that no more damage was done. The dog looks Ashley in the eye so it could have been so much more worse--like her face. We are very fortunate.
I have forgiven my friend, I know she didn't mean for it to happen. The world wants us to hold a grudge and that only leads to bitterness and hate. Instead, we should forgive and let the Lord take care of the rest. I only pray that something tragic doesn't happen when the dog decides to attack another child. I have talked to several dog trainers and they all agree that it will happen again. They have seen it too many times.
Jaclyn is away at summer camp this week. Boy, has it been quiet around here! She has called twice. She is a little homesick and ready to come home. Last week, she was counting the hours until she left for camp; last night she was counting the hours until she comes home. I am glad she missed us. We have missed her!
We have been working hard this week on our front yard. Can I just say it is looking great!! We have never had the time/money to do much in our yard. We can't get grass to grow, so we mow the dirt. We are putting in a nice walkway and flowerbeds and a fountain. It looks great. We just look at it and can't believe that we did it!! I'll try to figure out how to post pictures and put a before and after picture up soon!
Caitlin leaves Saturday for her NY missions trip. She is getting excited and is anxious to go. We are so thankful for everyone who has supported her enabling her to go. We appreciate your prayers on her behalf for safety and for her to bold as she shares the gospel with those she encounters. They will be mainly ministering in Stamford, CT, which is the 8th richest county in the country and less than 1% of the 21 million population are Christians and/or go to church. It is a huge mission field!
Well, I've tried to catch you up on everything and I know I have left things out. I'll try to catch up later!! Have a great weekend everybody!
We had some excitement two weeks ago. To make a long story short, our best friend was watching Jaclyn and Ashley and their Great Dane bit Ashley. The dog was totally unprovoked and attacked Ashley as she walked back in the house. The dog bit her arm--two nice punctures on her forearm and a huge bruise and scratches on her bicep. Then he bit the back of her leg for two more nice punctures. The bites were pretty bad, but fortunately she didn't need any stitches or surgery. She had to have a tetanus shot and take a strong antibiotic. She was pretty sore for about a week. It was quite a scary experience. We praise the Lord that no more damage was done. The dog looks Ashley in the eye so it could have been so much more worse--like her face. We are very fortunate.
I have forgiven my friend, I know she didn't mean for it to happen. The world wants us to hold a grudge and that only leads to bitterness and hate. Instead, we should forgive and let the Lord take care of the rest. I only pray that something tragic doesn't happen when the dog decides to attack another child. I have talked to several dog trainers and they all agree that it will happen again. They have seen it too many times.
Jaclyn is away at summer camp this week. Boy, has it been quiet around here! She has called twice. She is a little homesick and ready to come home. Last week, she was counting the hours until she left for camp; last night she was counting the hours until she comes home. I am glad she missed us. We have missed her!
We have been working hard this week on our front yard. Can I just say it is looking great!! We have never had the time/money to do much in our yard. We can't get grass to grow, so we mow the dirt. We are putting in a nice walkway and flowerbeds and a fountain. It looks great. We just look at it and can't believe that we did it!! I'll try to figure out how to post pictures and put a before and after picture up soon!
Caitlin leaves Saturday for her NY missions trip. She is getting excited and is anxious to go. We are so thankful for everyone who has supported her enabling her to go. We appreciate your prayers on her behalf for safety and for her to bold as she shares the gospel with those she encounters. They will be mainly ministering in Stamford, CT, which is the 8th richest county in the country and less than 1% of the 21 million population are Christians and/or go to church. It is a huge mission field!
Well, I've tried to catch you up on everything and I know I have left things out. I'll try to catch up later!! Have a great weekend everybody!
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
Another Milestone
It's official! Caitlin is now the proud owner of her driver's license! (GASP!!) She went today to take the driving test--the examiner said she did very well. When I found out she had passed, my heart started beating 100 mph. She came by work to show me and when I asked her if she was driving herself home, her eyes got really big--like the light bulb came on. She said, "Oh, yeah! I can drive!" Then she said, "I'm going to drive around a little bit to get used to dad's truck". Everyone in the room said my face went white. I began to stutter..."o-o-o-o-kay. Be careful. I love you and trust you."
When I left work, I went through the very curvy part of the road and saw 4 wheels sticking straight up in the air. I forgot to continue breathing. It wasn't her! When I got home at 3:30, the truck wasn't in the driveway. As I got out of the van, I heard sirens very close by. My breathing became erratic again. It is going to take some getting used to.
This is a huge milestone for her. I am very proud of her. It will take me a long time to remember to breathe when she leaves the house. I will pray every minute until she's home safe.
Feeling older by the minute,
Glynis
When I left work, I went through the very curvy part of the road and saw 4 wheels sticking straight up in the air. I forgot to continue breathing. It wasn't her! When I got home at 3:30, the truck wasn't in the driveway. As I got out of the van, I heard sirens very close by. My breathing became erratic again. It is going to take some getting used to.
This is a huge milestone for her. I am very proud of her. It will take me a long time to remember to breathe when she leaves the house. I will pray every minute until she's home safe.
Feeling older by the minute,
Glynis
Sunday, June 17, 2007
A Whirlwind Week
Well, another week has flown by. Last week was a whirlwind. It makes me dizzy just thinking about it. VBS (Jaclyn), soccer camp (Ashley), arts camp (Caitlin and Ashley), chiropracter (Jaclyn), neurologist for an EEG (Jaclyn), physical therapy (Jaclyn), piano (Ashley), guitar (Jaclyn), French horn (Caitlin), therapeutic horseback riding (Jaclyn)...did I get everything in?!? It is crazy around here!
Hopefully, this week will slow down a little bit. Ashley has basketball camp, Caitlin is volunteering at church and working with worship ministries. We have physical therapy, a visit to the neuroligist for a report on last week's EEG (hopefully, Jaclyn can begin coming off of her seizure meds), a chiropracter appointment, piano, guitar, horn lessons, and throw in orchestra rehearsal for Caitlin, Bible study for Jaclyn, and a youth activity for Jaclyn. Nevermind about the slowing down!!!
Well, Happy Father's Day!! Dale is working this weekend so we didn't get to see him that much today. The girls gave him his presents this morning when he got home from work. How exciting--weedkiller and spray paint for the furniture on the deck. Whoopee!!! We are trying to do some landscaping--mulch, put in flowerbeds, etc.--so we did buy a dwart alberta spruce tree yesterday. It was half-price at the local greenhouse. I'm very excited. I asked if it came with a "death guarantee" and the guy said, "yep, you don't water it, I'll guarantee it will die." I hope it will survive!
I hope we'll have some extra money to mulch the front yard. It looks so pitiful and blah. We want to mulch and add some hostas, lirope and other perinnials. Oh, and some stepping stones to make winding paths here and there. It looks pretty in our heads! We have high hopes but usually our plans fall through. Hopefully, not this time!!
Well, off to get a head start on the week! Hope yours is good!
Hopefully, this week will slow down a little bit. Ashley has basketball camp, Caitlin is volunteering at church and working with worship ministries. We have physical therapy, a visit to the neuroligist for a report on last week's EEG (hopefully, Jaclyn can begin coming off of her seizure meds), a chiropracter appointment, piano, guitar, horn lessons, and throw in orchestra rehearsal for Caitlin, Bible study for Jaclyn, and a youth activity for Jaclyn. Nevermind about the slowing down!!!
Well, Happy Father's Day!! Dale is working this weekend so we didn't get to see him that much today. The girls gave him his presents this morning when he got home from work. How exciting--weedkiller and spray paint for the furniture on the deck. Whoopee!!! We are trying to do some landscaping--mulch, put in flowerbeds, etc.--so we did buy a dwart alberta spruce tree yesterday. It was half-price at the local greenhouse. I'm very excited. I asked if it came with a "death guarantee" and the guy said, "yep, you don't water it, I'll guarantee it will die." I hope it will survive!
I hope we'll have some extra money to mulch the front yard. It looks so pitiful and blah. We want to mulch and add some hostas, lirope and other perinnials. Oh, and some stepping stones to make winding paths here and there. It looks pretty in our heads! We have high hopes but usually our plans fall through. Hopefully, not this time!!
Well, off to get a head start on the week! Hope yours is good!
Sunday, June 10, 2007
Happy Birthday, Dale!
This weekend has been spent celebrating my sweetie's birthday! Dale turned 44 on Saturday, June 9. We started the celebration on Friday night by going to Joyce's Restaurant in Fuquay with our best friends, Terrie and Roy. Can I just say "Yum! Yum!" Joyce's is a hole-in-the-wall place but the cooking is delicious! It is good ol' country cookin'!! Chicken pastry, fried chicken, collard greens, cabbage, string beans, corn, hush puppies, and the best candied yams I've ever eaten in my life! It is a family-owned establishment and they do a lot of cooking from scratch. It is delicious!! We waddled out of there and headed to Sunny Sky's Ice Cream in Angier. I didn't have have room at all but as we say here in the South, "the ice cream melts and fills in the cracks".
Saturday morning, Ashley and Jaclyn baked Dale a cake all by themselves--I knew nothing about it! They were tickled and very proud of their cake! It turned out very good!!
Saturday night we went to Dale's mom and dad's house to visit. Our family tradition is that the birthday guy or girl gets to pick where we go out to eat for his birthday. We rode over to Briar Cliff and spotted a Longhorn Steakhouse and pulled in. Dale was itching for a good steak. We were told it would be about a 10-15 minute so we stayed; however, the wait turned into a 45 minute wait. Dale's dad was getting antsy and even made a loop around the dining room to try to find out what was taking so long. When we were finally seated at the table, there was a complimentary plate of fried shrimp with peppers waiting for us. They were good!!
We had a good time, the food was great and we loved the atmosphere--it wasn't too loud. They brought Dale a huge dessert of something chocolate and we all dove it--it was big enough for all 7 of us. It was delicious!!
After dinner, we drove back to their house to finish our visit. About 9:30 we were getting ready to leave when a thunderstorm popped up and the electricity went out. It was pitch black so we began to feel around and look for matches, candles and oil lamps. As we sat by the glow of the lamp, the girls begged grandma and grandpa to tell them a story. We got a rare glimpse of their childhood as they each told a short story. Jaclyn said "this was a wonderful memory".
We got up today and went to church (Colonial Baptist--www.colonial.org). The music was wonderful as always and the sermon was excellent as always. Pastor Davey does such a wonderful job with his messages. After church, we drove to the "Cookout" and picked up hamburgers and hotdogs and went to the park for a picnic. It was a perfect day for a picnic! We had a great time swinging, playing on the playground and just enjoying being together as a family.
Now we are back home enjoying a quiet afternoon and I am reflecting. I am thankful for a loving, caring husband whose first priority is his family. He'd always rather be home with us then out every weekend on a golf course or have a career that takes him out-of-town every week. He loves me and his daughters so much; but he loves God first and I am so thankful for a Christian husband who leads our family according to the Bible. I am thankful that my in-laws adopted him 44 years ago and raised him to be such a wonderful person.
Enjoy your day with your family!
Love,
Glynis
Saturday morning, Ashley and Jaclyn baked Dale a cake all by themselves--I knew nothing about it! They were tickled and very proud of their cake! It turned out very good!!
Saturday night we went to Dale's mom and dad's house to visit. Our family tradition is that the birthday guy or girl gets to pick where we go out to eat for his birthday. We rode over to Briar Cliff and spotted a Longhorn Steakhouse and pulled in. Dale was itching for a good steak. We were told it would be about a 10-15 minute so we stayed; however, the wait turned into a 45 minute wait. Dale's dad was getting antsy and even made a loop around the dining room to try to find out what was taking so long. When we were finally seated at the table, there was a complimentary plate of fried shrimp with peppers waiting for us. They were good!!
We had a good time, the food was great and we loved the atmosphere--it wasn't too loud. They brought Dale a huge dessert of something chocolate and we all dove it--it was big enough for all 7 of us. It was delicious!!
After dinner, we drove back to their house to finish our visit. About 9:30 we were getting ready to leave when a thunderstorm popped up and the electricity went out. It was pitch black so we began to feel around and look for matches, candles and oil lamps. As we sat by the glow of the lamp, the girls begged grandma and grandpa to tell them a story. We got a rare glimpse of their childhood as they each told a short story. Jaclyn said "this was a wonderful memory".
We got up today and went to church (Colonial Baptist--www.colonial.org). The music was wonderful as always and the sermon was excellent as always. Pastor Davey does such a wonderful job with his messages. After church, we drove to the "Cookout" and picked up hamburgers and hotdogs and went to the park for a picnic. It was a perfect day for a picnic! We had a great time swinging, playing on the playground and just enjoying being together as a family.
Now we are back home enjoying a quiet afternoon and I am reflecting. I am thankful for a loving, caring husband whose first priority is his family. He'd always rather be home with us then out every weekend on a golf course or have a career that takes him out-of-town every week. He loves me and his daughters so much; but he loves God first and I am so thankful for a Christian husband who leads our family according to the Bible. I am thankful that my in-laws adopted him 44 years ago and raised him to be such a wonderful person.
Enjoy your day with your family!
Love,
Glynis
Wednesday, June 6, 2007
Finally! The Last Day of School!
Well, all the kids are out of school but one. Ashley has one more day to go. Caitlin and Jaclyn finished up today. I can feel the relaxed pace starting already--we didn't eat supper until 9pm tonight!
It is scary and exciting to think that Jaclyn and Ashley are done with public schools for now. I know that no school is perfect whether its private, Christian or public school, but I am more assured knowing that they are coming home to school.
Jaclyn has had wonderful teachers this year. Very patient and very understanding. She has had Christian teachers and non-Christian teachers, but I can assure you that she has been a witness to them! She had an autograph book that she brought home today with sweet messages--especially from her 1-on-1 helper, Mrs. Ray. She wrote the sweetest note to Jaclyn that it made me cry. She said she had prayed for Jaclyn even when Jaclyn didn't know she was praying for her and that she loved her. Those are the things that make it hard to say good-bye.
Ashley has had a wonderful year and has truly enjoyed learning this year. She had a very patient teacher that made learning fun. I think the hardest part for Ashley will be missing her friends--but we can go back and visit next year--but who knows where all these kids will be in school with all the Wake Co. School Assignment fiasco??
So, with all these mixed emotions come the doubts of "are we doing the right thing"? I know we are...the Lord has affirmed that over and over again. The doubts are coming from Satan, because he wants them back on his turf--public schools where God is hated.
I have been reading my Bible about standing strong against temptations and evil and have realized that Satan is out to get us from every angle...we have to continue to protect our children because Satan wants to devour them. He is pulling at us from every direction--from what we watch on TV, what we see at the malls, our self-indulgence by thinking "I've gotta have it NOW", the selfishness that "it's all about me" in advertising from everything from the car you drive to the burger you eat.
Our main priority is to teach them how to live for the Lord and honor Him in whatever they do. I don't care if they're not the smartest, brightest children but that they are God-honoring, God-pleasing and God-fearing responsible adults.
Praying I'll finish well,
Glynis
It is scary and exciting to think that Jaclyn and Ashley are done with public schools for now. I know that no school is perfect whether its private, Christian or public school, but I am more assured knowing that they are coming home to school.
Jaclyn has had wonderful teachers this year. Very patient and very understanding. She has had Christian teachers and non-Christian teachers, but I can assure you that she has been a witness to them! She had an autograph book that she brought home today with sweet messages--especially from her 1-on-1 helper, Mrs. Ray. She wrote the sweetest note to Jaclyn that it made me cry. She said she had prayed for Jaclyn even when Jaclyn didn't know she was praying for her and that she loved her. Those are the things that make it hard to say good-bye.
Ashley has had a wonderful year and has truly enjoyed learning this year. She had a very patient teacher that made learning fun. I think the hardest part for Ashley will be missing her friends--but we can go back and visit next year--but who knows where all these kids will be in school with all the Wake Co. School Assignment fiasco??
So, with all these mixed emotions come the doubts of "are we doing the right thing"? I know we are...the Lord has affirmed that over and over again. The doubts are coming from Satan, because he wants them back on his turf--public schools where God is hated.
I have been reading my Bible about standing strong against temptations and evil and have realized that Satan is out to get us from every angle...we have to continue to protect our children because Satan wants to devour them. He is pulling at us from every direction--from what we watch on TV, what we see at the malls, our self-indulgence by thinking "I've gotta have it NOW", the selfishness that "it's all about me" in advertising from everything from the car you drive to the burger you eat.
Our main priority is to teach them how to live for the Lord and honor Him in whatever they do. I don't care if they're not the smartest, brightest children but that they are God-honoring, God-pleasing and God-fearing responsible adults.
Praying I'll finish well,
Glynis
Monday, June 4, 2007
Ahhhh, Summertime is ALMOST HERE!
Only 3 more days of school! Yahoo!! The girls are so happy and so am I! I am looking forward to a slower pace for a change! However our summer is already packed!! The girls are all taking music lessons at our church--Ashley begins piano, Jaclyn begins guitar and Caitlin begins French horn lessons this week. Jaclyn begins her horseback riding therapy Saturday and is still going to physical therapy every Monday.
Ashley has soccer camp next week and basketball camp the following week; Jaclyn has VBS. Caitlin is volunteering at Arts Camp next week and will help teach handbells. She will then be volunteering in our church office with the Worship Ministries Department and helping them out 1-2 days a week.
Plus, Caitlin goes to summer camp the last week of June; she has a NY missions trip July 7-12; and then Band Camp starts August 7. Jaclyn goes to summer camp the first week of July. We also have a week vacation in the mountains the July 21-28.
Before you know it, summer will be gone but it will be full of wonderful memories!!
Caitlin is counting on getting her driver's license this week--oh my! Our insurance will go up $100 a month to cover her. Our paychecks are already stretched to the max so she will need to get a parttime job to cover her insurance and gas--or at least help!! It would be nice to have a 3rd car for her to drive, but that most likely won't happen anytime soon. I am praying her baking business would stay steady enough for her to cover these expenses. We know the Lord is in control and these things will work out according to His perfect plan!
I am looking forward to spending time with the girls this summer--laying on the grass looking at clouds, catching fireflies, trips to the pool and taking lots of pictures to capture these wonderful memories!!
Ashley has soccer camp next week and basketball camp the following week; Jaclyn has VBS. Caitlin is volunteering at Arts Camp next week and will help teach handbells. She will then be volunteering in our church office with the Worship Ministries Department and helping them out 1-2 days a week.
Plus, Caitlin goes to summer camp the last week of June; she has a NY missions trip July 7-12; and then Band Camp starts August 7. Jaclyn goes to summer camp the first week of July. We also have a week vacation in the mountains the July 21-28.
Before you know it, summer will be gone but it will be full of wonderful memories!!
Caitlin is counting on getting her driver's license this week--oh my! Our insurance will go up $100 a month to cover her. Our paychecks are already stretched to the max so she will need to get a parttime job to cover her insurance and gas--or at least help!! It would be nice to have a 3rd car for her to drive, but that most likely won't happen anytime soon. I am praying her baking business would stay steady enough for her to cover these expenses. We know the Lord is in control and these things will work out according to His perfect plan!
I am looking forward to spending time with the girls this summer--laying on the grass looking at clouds, catching fireflies, trips to the pool and taking lots of pictures to capture these wonderful memories!!
Monday, May 28, 2007
Decisions...
Well, it has been quite a week here and I have some updating to do. I have been plagued with a cold for the past week and it turned into a nasty sinus infection but am finally feeling better!
Last Thursday, Caitlin and I traveled to Winston-Salem for the weekend. I attended the NC Homeschooler's Conference (yes, we are going to homeschool next year--more later on that) and Caitlin attended Piedmont Baptist College's Music Festival. She took a 3 day crash course in French horn. She did extremely well and her teacher feels like she will be able to learn the horn over the summer in time to play for marching band in August. She made great progress in 3 days and we are very excited for her! She even had a solo part in the concert at the conclusion of music festival.
As I mentioned, I attended the homeschooler's conference. Overwhelmed doesn't begin to describe it. So many people, so many workshops to attend and so many vendors. My cold was at its peak so I felt miserable during it all. I found some excellent math and language curriculum and got some great ideas for science and history.
So why are we homeschooling? Good question...I don't know if I have enough time for all the answers...
First, I have felt a strong call from the Lord that he had a ministry for me out there. Over the year of praying, it was like a light bulb came on about 6 weeks ago. During a drive home from work, I was talking to Him and I said, "Lord, are you telling me that homeschool is my ministry?" and just like that the lightbulb came on and I said "Homeschool IS my ministry." And then I said, "You know I've always wanted to send my children to a Christian school" and He said, "You are"!! Clear as day! Ever since, I've had total peace and confidence about the situation and I know this is HIS WILL and calling for our family.
There are many other reasons, too. Ashley and Jaclyn continue to struggle in math but keep getting pushed to the next thing without mastering anything. They are both several grade levels behind. For example, this year Ashley learned multiplication and then they went to GEOMETRY! GEOMETRY?!? In third grade? By the time they started reviewing for EOG's she was in tears because she'd forgotten all of her times tables. She is still counting on her fingers. Jaclyn struggles in math and has been classified "learning disabled". I think this is due to her inability to write. It is hard to figure out the math when you can't write it out on paper and are trying to do it on computer or telling someone what to write.
After reading about the history of public schools and why they were started (to provide a minimal education for all students) and the attempt to "dumb us down", I am convinced that we can do a better job educating them. I spent alot of time in their class rooms last year observing and volunteering...the teachers spend so much time trying to control the class that very little instruction time is spent actually teaching. There were kids in 3rd grade who couldn't read on the kindergarten level. Kids were being bullied in second grade. It is heartbreaking.
So, that's just a few things in a nutshell.
We are excited about getting started. The girls can't wait! They want to start the day after they get out of school! So wish us luck on our new adventure and say a prayer for us when you think about us!!
Have a good night!
Last Thursday, Caitlin and I traveled to Winston-Salem for the weekend. I attended the NC Homeschooler's Conference (yes, we are going to homeschool next year--more later on that) and Caitlin attended Piedmont Baptist College's Music Festival. She took a 3 day crash course in French horn. She did extremely well and her teacher feels like she will be able to learn the horn over the summer in time to play for marching band in August. She made great progress in 3 days and we are very excited for her! She even had a solo part in the concert at the conclusion of music festival.
As I mentioned, I attended the homeschooler's conference. Overwhelmed doesn't begin to describe it. So many people, so many workshops to attend and so many vendors. My cold was at its peak so I felt miserable during it all. I found some excellent math and language curriculum and got some great ideas for science and history.
So why are we homeschooling? Good question...I don't know if I have enough time for all the answers...
First, I have felt a strong call from the Lord that he had a ministry for me out there. Over the year of praying, it was like a light bulb came on about 6 weeks ago. During a drive home from work, I was talking to Him and I said, "Lord, are you telling me that homeschool is my ministry?" and just like that the lightbulb came on and I said "Homeschool IS my ministry." And then I said, "You know I've always wanted to send my children to a Christian school" and He said, "You are"!! Clear as day! Ever since, I've had total peace and confidence about the situation and I know this is HIS WILL and calling for our family.
There are many other reasons, too. Ashley and Jaclyn continue to struggle in math but keep getting pushed to the next thing without mastering anything. They are both several grade levels behind. For example, this year Ashley learned multiplication and then they went to GEOMETRY! GEOMETRY?!? In third grade? By the time they started reviewing for EOG's she was in tears because she'd forgotten all of her times tables. She is still counting on her fingers. Jaclyn struggles in math and has been classified "learning disabled". I think this is due to her inability to write. It is hard to figure out the math when you can't write it out on paper and are trying to do it on computer or telling someone what to write.
After reading about the history of public schools and why they were started (to provide a minimal education for all students) and the attempt to "dumb us down", I am convinced that we can do a better job educating them. I spent alot of time in their class rooms last year observing and volunteering...the teachers spend so much time trying to control the class that very little instruction time is spent actually teaching. There were kids in 3rd grade who couldn't read on the kindergarten level. Kids were being bullied in second grade. It is heartbreaking.
So, that's just a few things in a nutshell.
We are excited about getting started. The girls can't wait! They want to start the day after they get out of school! So wish us luck on our new adventure and say a prayer for us when you think about us!!
Have a good night!
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Happy Birthday, Jaclyn!
Yesterday was Jaclyn's birthday. I can't believe she is 12 years old! Her birthday is always a day of mixed emotions for me. I can't help but reflect back on the day she was born. When she finally arrived she was lifeless and blue. She did not have a heartbeat and wasn't breathing. Through the grace and mercy of the Lord Jesus, she was given a second chance. After working to resuscitate her for 15 minutes, her heart finally began to beat. She is truly a miracle.
At six-months of age, she was diagnosed with cerebral palsy which was a result of the lack of oxygen after her birth. There have been many days I questioned "why"? Why her? Why did other babies who endured similar birth situations turn out "okay" with no life time repercusions?? Why did God choose my baby to endure a lifetime of difficulties and challenges? God always gently reminds me that that when we ask "why" that that implies that He made a mistake, and we know He doesn't make mistakes. Despite how hard it is, we should use this life lesson to bring Him honor and glory.
Over time, I prayed for a miracle and for God to heal her and make her whole. His reply was, "Her spirit is whole; her body is temporary." It is evident that He created her to impact other people for Him. She has such a true genuine love for others and her heart's desire is for them to trust God and give Him their hearts. Her testimony of faith is astounding. She has witnessed to family members and strangers, teachers and students at school. She puts us to shame with her ability and openess to witness for Him. I know He has big plans for her--much bigger than we could possibly dream for her. He has already used her in a powerful way and I can't wait to see how He continues to work in her life.
Her heart's desire is to go to heaven and receive her new body. She can't wait to walk normal and run with other kids. She can't wait to get to heaven and play soccer. She can't wait to hug her granddaddy's neck and play baseball with him. She misses him so much and mentions that often. He was her best friend. She tells me, "I can't wait to get to heaven and sit on granddaddy's lap again." One time, when she was 3, I asked her "why do you love granddaddy?" She replied, "Because he reads to me, he likes to hear me sing, he call me 'Queen Bee', and we don't walk very well." Oh, the love of a child.
Jaclyn has truly changed our lives and our hearts. We will never be the same because of her. While we have our challenges, our blessings far outweigh those.
Happy Birthday, Jaclyn! We love you!!
Mom, Dad, Caitlin and Ashley
At six-months of age, she was diagnosed with cerebral palsy which was a result of the lack of oxygen after her birth. There have been many days I questioned "why"? Why her? Why did other babies who endured similar birth situations turn out "okay" with no life time repercusions?? Why did God choose my baby to endure a lifetime of difficulties and challenges? God always gently reminds me that that when we ask "why" that that implies that He made a mistake, and we know He doesn't make mistakes. Despite how hard it is, we should use this life lesson to bring Him honor and glory.
Over time, I prayed for a miracle and for God to heal her and make her whole. His reply was, "Her spirit is whole; her body is temporary." It is evident that He created her to impact other people for Him. She has such a true genuine love for others and her heart's desire is for them to trust God and give Him their hearts. Her testimony of faith is astounding. She has witnessed to family members and strangers, teachers and students at school. She puts us to shame with her ability and openess to witness for Him. I know He has big plans for her--much bigger than we could possibly dream for her. He has already used her in a powerful way and I can't wait to see how He continues to work in her life.
Her heart's desire is to go to heaven and receive her new body. She can't wait to walk normal and run with other kids. She can't wait to get to heaven and play soccer. She can't wait to hug her granddaddy's neck and play baseball with him. She misses him so much and mentions that often. He was her best friend. She tells me, "I can't wait to get to heaven and sit on granddaddy's lap again." One time, when she was 3, I asked her "why do you love granddaddy?" She replied, "Because he reads to me, he likes to hear me sing, he call me 'Queen Bee', and we don't walk very well." Oh, the love of a child.
Jaclyn has truly changed our lives and our hearts. We will never be the same because of her. While we have our challenges, our blessings far outweigh those.
Happy Birthday, Jaclyn! We love you!!
Mom, Dad, Caitlin and Ashley
Sunday, May 20, 2007
Where DID the Weekend Go?
Well, another weekend has come and gone. It is Sunday night and I am wondering "where did the weekend go?" just like I said I would. It was a great weekend!
Friday night we celebrated Jaclyn's birthday with some of her friends. We went to see the Spiritual Twist Production (www.spiritualtwist.com) of "Snow White". It was wonderful! We had seats on the first row and had the best time! The entire theme was how we are washed snow white when Jesus washes our sins away. Snow White found a home with 7 orphans who were named after the fruits of the spirit--only they weren't acting so fruity. Snow White shared how the Bible teaches us to live and how Jesus can change our lives and our actions...and they become as they were named--lovely, patient, kind, self-controlled, joyful, peaceful, and gentle.
It was a very good play and the girls thanked us over and over for taking them. We finished the night with some delicious homemade ice cream from Sunny Sky's. Jaclyn was a very happy girl being with her friends. She smiled all night!
Caitlin traveled to Williamsburg, VA, for a band competition and their band won first place! We are so proud of her!! She has a sinus infection and has been feeling miserable but she persevered and made it through. She got home about 3:30 this morning, slept until it was time to get up and go to her piano recital. She hadn't been able to practice in about 3 days, and before she played Ashley, Jaclyn and I said a prayer for her. She played beautifully! She has a beautiful touch and despite only taking lessons for 3 years, she plays at an advanced intermediate level. She feels like she will pursue a career in music and we say "go for it"! She loves it and is passionate about it and that's the key ingredients to have a fulfilling career!
Saturday morning, Jaclyn, Ashley and I got up and went strawberry picking! We picked four buckets in about 30 minutes! We ended up freezing about 16 pints of berries and had a bowl left over. I made homemade waffles tonight and we had fresh strawberries on top. YUM! YUM!! They were delicious!!
Jaclyn went to her friends house Saturday afternoon to spend the night. Let's just say it was an "almost sleepover". She called me at 10:30pm to come and get her because she was homesick! I am glad she loves me and missed home! She is a sentimental homebody--she loves to be at home! We were almost back home when we realized she had left her beloved "Yesterbear" at her friend's house, but she managed to sleep without him!
Ashley and I had fun hanging out. We didn't go shopping. We ate dinner at home, played a card game and then went to bed. She crawled in bed with me since Dale was working and we ended up having a pillow fight. She loved it and told everybody today that we had a pillowfight. It was a fun memory!
This morning we went to church. We are so thankful for our church and the sound biblical teaching we hear every week! Pastor Davey is preaching on Job and the entire series has been terrific! You can hear him at www.oneplace.com. He is an awesome preacher! After church, we went to lunch with our best friends to our favorite place to eat--Fiesta Mexicana. They put a sombrero on Jaclyn and sang something to her in Spanish. She was not too happy with that, but she got over it!
Caitlin had a meeting about our NY missions trip and also a meeting about working at our church's art camp this summer so she had a busy day. Thankfully, she is feeling a little bit better but at 8:30, she is already in bed.
Tomorrow is Jaclyn's birthday and while that day is a day of celebration, it's a time of reflection for us to and how we almost lost her but how blessed we are to have her...more on that tomorrow!
I'm exhausted just reading this...going to bed. Thank you, Lord, for a wonderful, busy, hectic, fun weekend!
Friday night we celebrated Jaclyn's birthday with some of her friends. We went to see the Spiritual Twist Production (www.spiritualtwist.com) of "Snow White". It was wonderful! We had seats on the first row and had the best time! The entire theme was how we are washed snow white when Jesus washes our sins away. Snow White found a home with 7 orphans who were named after the fruits of the spirit--only they weren't acting so fruity. Snow White shared how the Bible teaches us to live and how Jesus can change our lives and our actions...and they become as they were named--lovely, patient, kind, self-controlled, joyful, peaceful, and gentle.
It was a very good play and the girls thanked us over and over for taking them. We finished the night with some delicious homemade ice cream from Sunny Sky's. Jaclyn was a very happy girl being with her friends. She smiled all night!
Caitlin traveled to Williamsburg, VA, for a band competition and their band won first place! We are so proud of her!! She has a sinus infection and has been feeling miserable but she persevered and made it through. She got home about 3:30 this morning, slept until it was time to get up and go to her piano recital. She hadn't been able to practice in about 3 days, and before she played Ashley, Jaclyn and I said a prayer for her. She played beautifully! She has a beautiful touch and despite only taking lessons for 3 years, she plays at an advanced intermediate level. She feels like she will pursue a career in music and we say "go for it"! She loves it and is passionate about it and that's the key ingredients to have a fulfilling career!
Saturday morning, Jaclyn, Ashley and I got up and went strawberry picking! We picked four buckets in about 30 minutes! We ended up freezing about 16 pints of berries and had a bowl left over. I made homemade waffles tonight and we had fresh strawberries on top. YUM! YUM!! They were delicious!!
Jaclyn went to her friends house Saturday afternoon to spend the night. Let's just say it was an "almost sleepover". She called me at 10:30pm to come and get her because she was homesick! I am glad she loves me and missed home! She is a sentimental homebody--she loves to be at home! We were almost back home when we realized she had left her beloved "Yesterbear" at her friend's house, but she managed to sleep without him!
Ashley and I had fun hanging out. We didn't go shopping. We ate dinner at home, played a card game and then went to bed. She crawled in bed with me since Dale was working and we ended up having a pillow fight. She loved it and told everybody today that we had a pillowfight. It was a fun memory!
This morning we went to church. We are so thankful for our church and the sound biblical teaching we hear every week! Pastor Davey is preaching on Job and the entire series has been terrific! You can hear him at www.oneplace.com. He is an awesome preacher! After church, we went to lunch with our best friends to our favorite place to eat--Fiesta Mexicana. They put a sombrero on Jaclyn and sang something to her in Spanish. She was not too happy with that, but she got over it!
Caitlin had a meeting about our NY missions trip and also a meeting about working at our church's art camp this summer so she had a busy day. Thankfully, she is feeling a little bit better but at 8:30, she is already in bed.
Tomorrow is Jaclyn's birthday and while that day is a day of celebration, it's a time of reflection for us to and how we almost lost her but how blessed we are to have her...more on that tomorrow!
I'm exhausted just reading this...going to bed. Thank you, Lord, for a wonderful, busy, hectic, fun weekend!
Friday, May 18, 2007
It's Friday!
We have a busy weekend ahead. Monday is Jaclyn's birthday but we are celebrating tonight with several of her friends. We are going to eat pizza, go see a play and then get some late night ice cream! She is so looking forward to it!
Caitlin leaves at 5am to go to Busch Gardens in Williamsburg for a band competition. She will be getting home Sunday morning around 3am! Dale is working this weekend, so she is spending the night with a friend tonight so I won't have to get up and take her or pick her up. She loves band! She eats, sleeps and breathes band. I think its safe to say she'll major in music one day and is looking at going to school at Appalachian State or UNC-Greensboro. She has played percussion this year and done very well. Her band teacher says that she easily picks up anything he has given her to play. She has willed herself to learn French horn this summer and will be taking lessons twice a week. I have no doubt she'll be able to do it. She can do anything she sets her mind to! Sunday is her piano recital. She is a busy girl.
Jaclyn has her first official sleepover at a friend's house tomorrow night. This will be her first sleepover at someone other than a relative's house. She is very excited! Ashley and I will be by ourselves and have fun doing our favorite thing together--shop! She loves to shop and she wears me out!
Sunday will be church and piano recital. Caitlin has two meetings--one for her NY missions trip and the other for working at Arts Camp this summer.
Sunday night I'll be wondering where our weekend went. Have a good one!!
Caitlin leaves at 5am to go to Busch Gardens in Williamsburg for a band competition. She will be getting home Sunday morning around 3am! Dale is working this weekend, so she is spending the night with a friend tonight so I won't have to get up and take her or pick her up. She loves band! She eats, sleeps and breathes band. I think its safe to say she'll major in music one day and is looking at going to school at Appalachian State or UNC-Greensboro. She has played percussion this year and done very well. Her band teacher says that she easily picks up anything he has given her to play. She has willed herself to learn French horn this summer and will be taking lessons twice a week. I have no doubt she'll be able to do it. She can do anything she sets her mind to! Sunday is her piano recital. She is a busy girl.
Jaclyn has her first official sleepover at a friend's house tomorrow night. This will be her first sleepover at someone other than a relative's house. She is very excited! Ashley and I will be by ourselves and have fun doing our favorite thing together--shop! She loves to shop and she wears me out!
Sunday will be church and piano recital. Caitlin has two meetings--one for her NY missions trip and the other for working at Arts Camp this summer.
Sunday night I'll be wondering where our weekend went. Have a good one!!
Thursday, May 17, 2007
Never a Dull Moment
There is never a dull moment around our house and quiet moments are rare unless, of course, it's the middle of the night. Our schedules keep us busy and with five of us, some days I just want to yell, "Stop and let me off"! I treasure the moments that we are together as a family with no place to go and where we can just be together. With our oldest leaving home in two short years, it makes me ask where did the time go?
Time flies and the children are growing up so fast. It seems like only yesterday they were babies. I treasure every moment with them. Unlike a lot of parents who can't wait to send their kids off to school to have time to themselves, I miss my girls and can't wait for them to come home. I love being a mom--their mom. I thank God every day for the privilege and awesome responsibility of being a parent. To teach them to love Him and obey Him is the most important part of being a parent. I pray that we not only teach them to love Him but that they will see our example of us loving Him, too. We will be held accountable for all of our decisions one day.
So, this leads me to the name of our blog. Our "Lifesong". "Lifesong" is one of our favorite songs by Casting Crowns. We want our Lifesong to sing to Him every day. Our family lifesong is to follow and obey Him in all that we do; that our lifesong will sing to Him.
May your Life sing for Him,
Glynis
Time flies and the children are growing up so fast. It seems like only yesterday they were babies. I treasure every moment with them. Unlike a lot of parents who can't wait to send their kids off to school to have time to themselves, I miss my girls and can't wait for them to come home. I love being a mom--their mom. I thank God every day for the privilege and awesome responsibility of being a parent. To teach them to love Him and obey Him is the most important part of being a parent. I pray that we not only teach them to love Him but that they will see our example of us loving Him, too. We will be held accountable for all of our decisions one day.
So, this leads me to the name of our blog. Our "Lifesong". "Lifesong" is one of our favorite songs by Casting Crowns. We want our Lifesong to sing to Him every day. Our family lifesong is to follow and obey Him in all that we do; that our lifesong will sing to Him.
May your Life sing for Him,
Glynis
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