August Happenings

I have missed blogging lately. Nothing like putting thoughts and feelings into words to make you work through everything you're facing in life. So I'm just going to try... no promises on how this will all come out. I'll try not to ramble too much. :)

Branson trip - Charles and I went to Branson August 7 through August 14 for our 5 year anniversary getaway trip. It was totally enjoyable and relaxing and we really needed this trip after working on our house off and on for a couple of years. We took in some good shows, shopping and eating. Sometimes we took time to just relax in the condo. It's beautiful country over there. They just have foothills. Not as big as the Smokies, but beautiful nonetheless. We were sad to make the trip home on Thursday, the 14th, but it was necessary because Courtney started high school on the 14th. Good times though! Thanks for asking me 5 years ago, babe... and I'm glad I said yes!

High School - Courtney started high school this past Friday, August 14. She only went for an hour. Never understand the hour thing, but she did get through her student handbook and was assigned a locker during that hour. There have been a couple of overwhelming times for her, but she's adjusting well. As mamas, all we can do is pray a hedge of protection around them, keep them in our continual prayers and let God do the rest. He is able! I can't believe I have a high school girl, but I'm enjoying this journey with her just like everything else we've faced together. I'm so blessed that God entrusted her to me!

North American Youth Congress - Courtney was privileged to attend Youth Congress with her friends for the first time since she's become a teenager. It's a national gathering of youth that share our faith and it was in Nashville, Tennessee this year. She had fun and saw some friends from other states too. A highlight was hearing Wayne Huntley speak on Thursday evening of Youth Congress. It was special in a couple of ways. It was a great message and as he was our pastor for about a year and a half, he also dedicated her to the Lord when she was a baby. We have a little pink New Testament from the Raleigh church with her name engraved in gold. Precious memories!

My sister, Melanie - When I came home from Branson, I knew that Melanie had not been well during the week. While Charles was working, Courtney and I headed out to see her Saturday afternoon. When I got there, she didn't look well at all and Dale and I encouraged her to be seen by a doctor. Dale ended up calling an ambulance to come and get her and then the journey began. They ended up admitting her for pneumonia and with her compromised immune system because of the meds she has to take for lupus, it became a scarier situation quickly. She ended up in the ICU by Sunday night. As of yesterday she was starting to improve and they may move her to a regular room today, but she still needs prayers.

Over the weekend, I was privileged to spend a lot of quality time with my 3 year old nephew while his mommy was trying to get better. We went to the Christian book store and sat in the kids section for a while and he ended up with all kinds of kid-friendly items to take home that his Aunt Christy bought for him. His favorite was the Veggie Tales "brella" as he calls it. A cute lime green umbrella that was being given away with the latest Veggie Tales DVD. We went out to eat together and spent some time at the park swinging and playing on the slides. He also loved trying to "scare" the ducks and geese although at times they scared him more! And what little boy doesn't like to pick up the rocks on the playground and throw them? I kept him away from others so he couldn't do major damage with the pea gravel. :) I love that little guy and we are so blessed to have him in our lives.

Jared - my younger brother is moving to Florida for his job. I want to do an in-depth post about him later, but I'm going to miss him so much! He is a rock in our family. Almost like an older brother rather than younger. Going to enjoy a meal with him tonight before he heads out tomorrow. Tears might be a part of this gathering!

Uncle Stan - my uncle has been fighting cancer for almost two years now, I believe. He has had some rough days lately and we are praying for a miracle for him. We appreciate your prayers for him too! I slipped in to see him for a few minutes on Saturday before going to see my sister. I love that man so much and I'm praying continuously for his miracle. He and I go way back. He came to visit my parents in Marquette, MI on K.I. Sawyer Air Force Base when I was a little girl. He was still a teenager I believe and I would have been around two I think. He tells me he just held me and rocked me, and talked and played with me. We formed a bond that continues to this day. God please touch my Uncle Stan!

Grandparents (both sets) - Age and infirmity continues to be a battle for them. I am praying for them too. Love them all!

Thanks for reading everyone. Our connection is priceless to me. You mean so much!

Blessings and peace!