We were piled in the bed this morning finishing school and working on the computer. I had gotten up to grab something from the other room. When I returned she was breathless, head buried into my pillow and unable to speak. I quickly ask my baby girl what was wrong when she said that my best friend had text me. Unable to understand I read the text which told of a mutual friend's husband passing away this morning.
We have waited for this call. The suffering and treatments have continued for years. As true fighting fashion though the bounce back would happen and life would continue. A few weeks ago though my friend shared her husband had fallen and had to be put in a nursing home for recovery. She hinted that he might not come home and to pray for the girls.
Their baby and mine have been friends since preschool. We have not missed birthday parties and attended church camp together every year. I feel that I have been trying to prepare my little girl for the moment her friend's Dad would no longer live on this earth forever, but when that text came I realized how unprepared we were.
As I held my baby and prayed for our friends, my mind flooded back to the day that numbness overcame me. I had just returned from a wonderful weekend introducing my boyfriend to my family. He and I had taken the long way back to college stopping by to visit old family friends of his. I distinctly remember us commenting on the oddness of the sky as we drove the 2 1/2 hours across the Delta towards Starkville.
We arrived home and I ran inside with my basket of clean laundry that I dropped on the floor so I could call to report my safe arrival to Mama (my usual post drive home call- oh the days before the cell phone that is everywhere with you). I dialed my home and my Mama's best friend answered the phone. This was odd because she might be at our home, but didn't really answer our phone. Mama spoke and the numbing words fell all over me. "Your Dad had a heart attack"-Mama "He is going to be fine, right???"-Me "No Sweetie, He didn't make it."
Those words spoken to me by my Mother 23 years ago changed my whole life. I was 20 years old and I know the things that I have missed and longed for as a daughter without an earthly Father. My daughter's friend is 11 and her sister 15. How my heart breaks for them tonight as I recall them being picked up at school to be told their Dad is no longer living.
I hugged both girls today. I shared that I understood it hurt. I told them we could get together and talk. I would listen because even though I don't have my Daddy (his heart broke) their Daddy was lost to the horribleness of cancer. Our stories are different, but we are daughters without Daddies tonight.
My prayer for these precious girls and my friend is that they feel the cradling of the arms of Jesus the ultimate Daddy. May they find comfort in friends and stories these next few days. And Mr. Chuck say "hi" to George Trippe-my Daddy.
Showing posts with label memories. Show all posts
Showing posts with label memories. Show all posts
Tuesday, April 9, 2013
Saturday, April 6, 2013
Memory Quilt
Making a t-shirt memory quilt is something that I have been planning since MK was little. My hoarding self has saved t-shirts since forever. I began several months ago the process. MK had pulled out her favorite shirts. I let them collect dust. I spent one night watching TV with the family while cutting the fronts off the the shirts then again more dust collecting. (I feel the dust intermissions will add to the sturdiness of the finished quilt).
This weekend I have been determined to knock off the dust. I spent today ironing the pellon onto the wrong side of the fronts. This was a two hour project with some carpool interruptions. I set the iron up so I could watch Food Network which helped because I do NOT like to iron.
After the ironing, I have decided to watch the Final Four minus a quilting project in my hands. My next step is to cut the fronts into 15 x 15 squares. I will take pictures, but so far it has been an enjoyable project. (Not much skill needed so far) I am struggling with what color to make the sash (boarder) fabric. I still have some time to think on this one.
I have attached the pattern from Goose Tracks that I am using.
http://www.goosetracks.com/T-Shirt%20Quilt%20Instructions.html
I chose this pattern because it gave me dimensions for every size from a lap quilt to a king sized quilt. The directions are thorough and easy to follow. Pictures to follow in my next post!
This weekend I have been determined to knock off the dust. I spent today ironing the pellon onto the wrong side of the fronts. This was a two hour project with some carpool interruptions. I set the iron up so I could watch Food Network which helped because I do NOT like to iron.
After the ironing, I have decided to watch the Final Four minus a quilting project in my hands. My next step is to cut the fronts into 15 x 15 squares. I will take pictures, but so far it has been an enjoyable project. (Not much skill needed so far) I am struggling with what color to make the sash (boarder) fabric. I still have some time to think on this one.
I have attached the pattern from Goose Tracks that I am using.
http://www.goosetracks.com/T-Shirt%20Quilt%20Instructions.html
I chose this pattern because it gave me dimensions for every size from a lap quilt to a king sized quilt. The directions are thorough and easy to follow. Pictures to follow in my next post!
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
My Brave Little Girl
I have four beautiful children, and they each make me proud. We have been blessed beyond belief with kind-hearted, Jesus loving, and beautiful children. (I am bragging-a Mother's right!)
It is so hard to believe that our oldest is 17 TODAY. This shy little girl has grown into a beautiful and strong young woman. She serves in church, in our community, she is an athlete and a good student. She is driven to be the best at whatever she is involved.
This girl in her early days was shy and fear-filled. It is amazing to see what God has done through her. I know that her life is still just getting started, and He has more things to do through her.
When she was little, she loved to dress-up. She and her sister would put on plays on our hearth where they sang at the top of their lungs. Both girls, when in public would hide behind me and stay as close as possible.
Some days though, this shy little girl would leap off of the chair and proclaim "Marykathaleena!" We always have joked when she called herself that name she was her "brave self".
Now that MK is older there are few days I see a shy, fear-ful girl. Lately, we see her shining her light for the Lord so brightly. Just the other night I witnessed by 16 year old daughter leap forward screaming-"Marykathaleena".
Her good friend encouraged her to participate in a school Parade of Beauties. Now my girl is beautiful, but she isn't normally one to put on a formal dress and waltz across a stage waving. Take a look at these pictures and you too will hear her use her brave voice.....
By the way, she was MOST BEAUTIFUL in the eyes of family and friends!
Happy 17th Birthday Mary Katherine!
It is so hard to believe that our oldest is 17 TODAY. This shy little girl has grown into a beautiful and strong young woman. She serves in church, in our community, she is an athlete and a good student. She is driven to be the best at whatever she is involved.
This girl in her early days was shy and fear-filled. It is amazing to see what God has done through her. I know that her life is still just getting started, and He has more things to do through her.
When she was little, she loved to dress-up. She and her sister would put on plays on our hearth where they sang at the top of their lungs. Both girls, when in public would hide behind me and stay as close as possible.
Some days though, this shy little girl would leap off of the chair and proclaim "Marykathaleena!" We always have joked when she called herself that name she was her "brave self".
Now that MK is older there are few days I see a shy, fear-ful girl. Lately, we see her shining her light for the Lord so brightly. Just the other night I witnessed by 16 year old daughter leap forward screaming-"Marykathaleena".
By the way, she was MOST BEAUTIFUL in the eyes of family and friends!
Happy 17th Birthday Mary Katherine!Monday, May 9, 2011
Mother's Day Blessings
Family
Baseball
Coke 10 KGreen Festival
40th Annual Gum Tree Festival
Friends
Sweet Tea
D'Casa
Movies- AT HOME
Heating Pad
Cards
Gifts
Worship
Cooking Together
Music
Nest Painting
Remembering Mother's and Grandmother's
Honoring Mother's
 |
| Philip and my Mama |
A weekend of FAMILY and LOVE....
THANK YOU!
Gifts List #686-734
a restful day
a time of reflection
a deer crossing the raod-not at all concerned about me
MK confidence about showchoir tryouts
kids who count down days until summer
Wynn practicing piano without being asked
Sarah's honesty about her feelings
Bible reading that teaches
a morning walk that reminds me it is Spring
baby ducklings
yoga that helps my body heal
help for a family member in need
a warm shower
ducklings swimming with their Mom
music that lifts the soul
time in Bible study with a friend
seeing kids run and build confidence
schedules that work themselves out
a boy's confidence in a sport that isn't his best
girls singing songs that remind me of my high school choir days
a child who makes showchoir-seeing the excitement on her face
getting to bake for a single mom
sending cards to Mom's in my life who need encouragement
time at baseball games with family
seeing Wynn play with a friend who makes her laugh and smile
a talented husband who can and will help decorate cakes
time to walk through green festival
celebrating the boys successful run-58.01
meeting an old friend who I admire
girls who make lunch
a good talk with MK
Wynn's day with her friend
time with Trippe and MK
seeing friends at Gum Tree
sweet tea on a hot day
cool breezes when you are hot
mexican with the family
laughter at dinner
a long journey that leads to a relaxing night at home
early restoring rest
my favorite omlet for breakfast
a slower, quiter morning
thoughtful, hand-made and picked - out cards
a sermon that challenges me to "let-go & let God"
cooking lunch with Philip
the afternoon with my family at Gum Tree
the kids excited to get me a gift of art
Trippe's creative writing being honored
a little girl who wants to go to night church
an after dinner treat
family traditions
family laughter
Friday, March 25, 2011
Life Was Easier When...
It seems like just yesterday that Mary Katherine and Sarah were 1 and 2. I thought life was hard with girls 13 months apart. I'm realizing now 15 years later that it was easier. We celebrated all those years ago each step, word, and accomplishment. Don't get me wrong, we still celebrate, but it seems harder.
Today I took Sarah for her driving permit test. (she passed!) Mary Katherine has officially been on the road (ALONE) for a month. I said out loud today that this is just hard. They are growing up so fast. I don't really encourage the accomplishments anymore. As a mother, you must know what I mean. I do celebrate my children (all 4), but seriously, a drivers license leads to driving places...driving leads to junior and sophomore years....which leads to dating...graduating...college. See it is so hard to celebrate the accomplishments. They are harder to face.
I remember when they were small and a certain husband (who will remain unnamed to protect his manhood-my favorite part about him), would cry as they reached a milestone. I was the tough one. I announced that it was our job to raise them and send them out. Well, roles are reversing. I'm kicking and screaming with all of this. Stop the train...it is moving too fast. I really do think that life was much easier back when I could place them in the floor and there they stayed until I returned.
Today I took Sarah for her driving permit test. (she passed!) Mary Katherine has officially been on the road (ALONE) for a month. I said out loud today that this is just hard. They are growing up so fast. I don't really encourage the accomplishments anymore. As a mother, you must know what I mean. I do celebrate my children (all 4), but seriously, a drivers license leads to driving places...driving leads to junior and sophomore years....which leads to dating...graduating...college. See it is so hard to celebrate the accomplishments. They are harder to face.
I remember when they were small and a certain husband (who will remain unnamed to protect his manhood-my favorite part about him), would cry as they reached a milestone. I was the tough one. I announced that it was our job to raise them and send them out. Well, roles are reversing. I'm kicking and screaming with all of this. Stop the train...it is moving too fast. I really do think that life was much easier back when I could place them in the floor and there they stayed until I returned.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Fresh Water
This journey to fresh water began four years ago. Missionaries from our church Rick and Mary Ervin had just left our church to move to Nicaragua. At age 5 each of our children had been taught through church by Rick and Mary. The year they left it was time to teach Wynn so she had a heart for them.
Each night at dinner, she began to pray for them ( and still does). Soon after they had left for Nicaragua, Wynn began to pray for fresh water. Her prayer at dinner was..."Dear Lord, Thank you for today. Thank you for our food. Be with Rick and Mary. And for fresh water." She prayed for what other concerns might come to her. Each day the prayer for fresh water.
Rick and Mary returned home for a visit. I asked her about the water situation, and she said the water wasn't good unless filtered. I was overwhelmed to think that God had placed a need in her heart for something that others-people that she didn't even know. For goodness sake, this baby was 5.
Fast forward 4 years, our dinner time prayer still consist of ...thanks for the day, the food, blessings on Rick and Mary and for fresh water. Some nights it seems that dinner might get cold based on the needs she has heard about all day (friends who are adopting, or sick, etc).
Back in the Fall, plans for a Spring Break mission trip to Nicaragua began to surface. Mary Katherine and Sarah wanted to go. I had been praying and felt God place this on my heart to go as well. We planned and prayed. The time for our journey approached ....
This week was Spring Break. Mary Katherine, Sarah and I traveled with some of our youth to La Dalia, Nicaragua. Our job was to work in a rehab facility meeting with the children and women. Our eyes were opened to a whole new world. One that is much different than ours. This was a journey to fresh water.
The people we encountered do not know about the need for fresh water. They drink, bathe, cook with water that is contaminated. The people we saw in the clinic were treated for diseases from parasites. The bathroom at the rehab was an outhouse.
One night in our group sharing I realized ...fresh water. I had seen what my child had prayed for. I had lived for a week in a place where I made sure I had bottled water for drinking and brushing my teeth. I wrote in my 1000 gifts list ...fresh water. The reality of it all was overwhelming. My journey to this fresh water had begun four years before with a five year old girl whom the Lord speaks to. I am truly grateful for fresh water and the people of Nicaragua. I am also grateful for a little girl whom the Lord uses to teach me.
Gifts # 296-429 ( a long list)
* sound of gentle rain on the window
* memories of a Grandmother on her birthday
*a morning walk in the cool breeze
* sunshine that overcomes the darkest of days
* a town of dead trees coming to life with white pear blooms
* a daughter's diligent work paying off in her ACT score
* freckled faced boys who still find joy in Nerf guns
* friends who in their grief help ones find healing
* kids laughter first thing in the morning
* seeing tiny arms and legs wiggle on an ultrasound screen
*seeing joy on the face of an expectant mom as she sees her baby for the first time
* sharing in good news with friends
* a gift that will make the birthday boy smile
* the almost 11 year old who still excitedly plans every detail of the party
* news from the doctor that makes you stop and think - realizing God is in charge
* grateful for tears that finally come out
* pink and purple sunset outside my dinnertime window
* little girls who make Philip and I smile
* a wonderful family
* baking with my son who ask lots of questions
* 42 years of life
* Trippe's 11 years of life
* helpful teenagers
* gaining of more time to get it all done
* medication that can correct what bad genes might could do- extension of life
* many well wishes from friends
* lunch with a confident 11 year old birthday boy
* pay day
* extra time to get it all done
* time of renewal
* laughter with friends
* a patient man
* new wisdom about a new culture
* laughter of kids and grandmother
* news of new babies
* friends who help you continue to celebrate birthdays
* friends who share a heart for missions
* a great day to worship
* a fun boys birthday party
* great discussion at small group
* coffee and blankets on cold mornings
* wedding plans for a patient, deserving young lady
* a quiet day at home
* financial commitments to our mission trip
* watching ducks sleep so oddly
* friends who share burdens
* naps of refreshing
* warmth of a blanket
* your word that brings refreshment
*the birth of our Sarah- her joyful 15 years of life
* seeing teen friends laugh and enjoy themselves
* a night free of cooking
* hearing a girl be excited about her plans with her Dad for Spring Break
* a husband who lives life and loves it
* after a big rain seeing nature nurture itself
* quiet time alone with God
* a day to find order and cleanliness
* videos that show my kids a grandfather they never knew
* friends who support and pray for you
* smells of a clean house
* energy to clean and wash
* the right mind to write notes of thanks and encouragement
* teachers who love to help children learn
* the tradition of the birthday banner and cards on the mantel
* Japan placed in the heart of a friend before a natural disaster
* encouragement from a friend about mission talk
* supportive husband who has a heart for missions
* last day of classes before spring break
* the sun and breeze that makes it feel like spring break is beginning
* smell of crisp, new dollar bills
* Philip getting off work early today
* hugs from little girls who will miss their Mama
* quiet time to read and prepare
* suitcases that zip
* girls excited to spend spring break on a mission trip
* getting to wake up and serve
* watching the faces of my girl who have never traveled by airplane
* like-minded mothers
* well wishes of airline workers- "praise Jesus"
* movies on airplanes that remind me of the 2 kids at home
* notes from a Mother who wants to encourage
* husbands songs on playlist to remind me of us
* tears from a little girl who aches for the country that I'm headed too
* a good nights sleep
* waking up to new sounds of birds and roosters
*a day talking with women who share hurt, pain, struggles and a love for Jesus
* understanding a language I can't speak
* seeing God move in heart of people when I can't understand their words
* helping the sick
* seeing our youth see God in a new way
*seeing beautiful mountains
*songs of praise in any language
* smiles of children who have so little
* delicious meal
* clean water
* Wynn's heart for praying for this country as they need her answers
* seeing Jesus in the faces of the Nicaraguan people
* the children who joyfully greet us each day
* a man who gets relief from a bad tooth
* a doctor/dad who loves Jesus and his kids enough to share them
*rain that would cool us
* time to laugh with kids who otherwise wouldn't interact
* quiet time to pull my thoughts together
* a passionate ending worship
* time to help others in the clinic
* conversation about ministry with Mary
* clean bathrooms and paper at home
* seeing kids get teh purpose of why we were there
* seeing MK and SG making a connection with people
* a bus ride without being sick
* a day of shopping in the market with my girls
* translators who seem to let us ask as many questions as we wanted
*a good talk with a new found friend
* a bed to myself
* girls who follow the rules -respect the leader
* hot shower
* seeing the passion on a college students face about missions
* pizza for dinner
* new friendships with translators
* a home with electricity that works
* the beautiful lush resort
* hot breakfast
* warm sunshine
* safe exit from the area
* electricity that stays on
* laughter with friends
* Rick and Mary's passion
* getting back up the mountain from the waterfall
* making it on a mission trip when my body was so tired
* being home
* my family
* time to rest
* a quick nap
* first day of spring
* a husband who makes life fun for our kids
Each night at dinner, she began to pray for them ( and still does). Soon after they had left for Nicaragua, Wynn began to pray for fresh water. Her prayer at dinner was..."Dear Lord, Thank you for today. Thank you for our food. Be with Rick and Mary. And for fresh water." She prayed for what other concerns might come to her. Each day the prayer for fresh water.
Rick and Mary returned home for a visit. I asked her about the water situation, and she said the water wasn't good unless filtered. I was overwhelmed to think that God had placed a need in her heart for something that others-people that she didn't even know. For goodness sake, this baby was 5.
Fast forward 4 years, our dinner time prayer still consist of ...thanks for the day, the food, blessings on Rick and Mary and for fresh water. Some nights it seems that dinner might get cold based on the needs she has heard about all day (friends who are adopting, or sick, etc).
Back in the Fall, plans for a Spring Break mission trip to Nicaragua began to surface. Mary Katherine and Sarah wanted to go. I had been praying and felt God place this on my heart to go as well. We planned and prayed. The time for our journey approached ....
This week was Spring Break. Mary Katherine, Sarah and I traveled with some of our youth to La Dalia, Nicaragua. Our job was to work in a rehab facility meeting with the children and women. Our eyes were opened to a whole new world. One that is much different than ours. This was a journey to fresh water.
The people we encountered do not know about the need for fresh water. They drink, bathe, cook with water that is contaminated. The people we saw in the clinic were treated for diseases from parasites. The bathroom at the rehab was an outhouse.
One night in our group sharing I realized ...fresh water. I had seen what my child had prayed for. I had lived for a week in a place where I made sure I had bottled water for drinking and brushing my teeth. I wrote in my 1000 gifts list ...fresh water. The reality of it all was overwhelming. My journey to this fresh water had begun four years before with a five year old girl whom the Lord speaks to. I am truly grateful for fresh water and the people of Nicaragua. I am also grateful for a little girl whom the Lord uses to teach me.
* sound of gentle rain on the window
* memories of a Grandmother on her birthday
*a morning walk in the cool breeze
* sunshine that overcomes the darkest of days
* a town of dead trees coming to life with white pear blooms
* a daughter's diligent work paying off in her ACT score
* freckled faced boys who still find joy in Nerf guns
* friends who in their grief help ones find healing
* kids laughter first thing in the morning
* seeing tiny arms and legs wiggle on an ultrasound screen
*seeing joy on the face of an expectant mom as she sees her baby for the first time
* sharing in good news with friends
* a gift that will make the birthday boy smile
* the almost 11 year old who still excitedly plans every detail of the party
* news from the doctor that makes you stop and think - realizing God is in charge
* grateful for tears that finally come out
* pink and purple sunset outside my dinnertime window
* little girls who make Philip and I smile
* a wonderful family
* baking with my son who ask lots of questions
* 42 years of life
* Trippe's 11 years of life
* helpful teenagers
* gaining of more time to get it all done
* medication that can correct what bad genes might could do- extension of life
* many well wishes from friends
* lunch with a confident 11 year old birthday boy
* pay day
* extra time to get it all done
* time of renewal
* laughter with friends
* a patient man
* new wisdom about a new culture
* laughter of kids and grandmother
* news of new babies
* friends who help you continue to celebrate birthdays
* friends who share a heart for missions
* a great day to worship
* a fun boys birthday party
* great discussion at small group
* coffee and blankets on cold mornings
* wedding plans for a patient, deserving young lady
* a quiet day at home
* financial commitments to our mission trip
* watching ducks sleep so oddly
* friends who share burdens
* naps of refreshing
* warmth of a blanket
* your word that brings refreshment
*the birth of our Sarah- her joyful 15 years of life
* seeing teen friends laugh and enjoy themselves
* a night free of cooking
* hearing a girl be excited about her plans with her Dad for Spring Break
* a husband who lives life and loves it
* after a big rain seeing nature nurture itself
* quiet time alone with God
* a day to find order and cleanliness
* videos that show my kids a grandfather they never knew
* friends who support and pray for you
* smells of a clean house
* energy to clean and wash
* the right mind to write notes of thanks and encouragement
* teachers who love to help children learn
* the tradition of the birthday banner and cards on the mantel
* Japan placed in the heart of a friend before a natural disaster
* encouragement from a friend about mission talk
* supportive husband who has a heart for missions
* last day of classes before spring break
* the sun and breeze that makes it feel like spring break is beginning
* smell of crisp, new dollar bills
* Philip getting off work early today
* hugs from little girls who will miss their Mama
* quiet time to read and prepare
* suitcases that zip
* girls excited to spend spring break on a mission trip
* getting to wake up and serve
* watching the faces of my girl who have never traveled by airplane
* like-minded mothers
* well wishes of airline workers- "praise Jesus"
* movies on airplanes that remind me of the 2 kids at home
* notes from a Mother who wants to encourage
* husbands songs on playlist to remind me of us
* tears from a little girl who aches for the country that I'm headed too
* a good nights sleep
* waking up to new sounds of birds and roosters
*a day talking with women who share hurt, pain, struggles and a love for Jesus
* understanding a language I can't speak
* seeing God move in heart of people when I can't understand their words
* helping the sick
* seeing our youth see God in a new way
*seeing beautiful mountains
*songs of praise in any language
* smiles of children who have so little
* delicious meal
* clean water
* Wynn's heart for praying for this country as they need her answers
* seeing Jesus in the faces of the Nicaraguan people
* the children who joyfully greet us each day
* a man who gets relief from a bad tooth
* a doctor/dad who loves Jesus and his kids enough to share them
*rain that would cool us
* time to laugh with kids who otherwise wouldn't interact
* quiet time to pull my thoughts together
* a passionate ending worship
* time to help others in the clinic
* conversation about ministry with Mary
* clean bathrooms and paper at home
* seeing kids get teh purpose of why we were there
* seeing MK and SG making a connection with people
* a bus ride without being sick
* a day of shopping in the market with my girls
* translators who seem to let us ask as many questions as we wanted
*a good talk with a new found friend
* a bed to myself
* girls who follow the rules -respect the leader
* hot shower
* seeing the passion on a college students face about missions
* pizza for dinner
* new friendships with translators
* a home with electricity that works
* the beautiful lush resort
* hot breakfast
* warm sunshine
* safe exit from the area
* electricity that stays on
* laughter with friends
* Rick and Mary's passion
* getting back up the mountain from the waterfall
* making it on a mission trip when my body was so tired
* being home
* my family
* time to rest
* a quick nap
* first day of spring
* a husband who makes life fun for our kids
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
GOOOOAL!
 |
| Magnolia Cup 2011 Winners- TFC 2000 Blue Boys |
This weekend Trippe's soccer team had a tournament in Clinton. They played their league games on Saturday as a part of the tournament. Wynn had a Saturday morning piano competition so the girls and I stayed here. After game 1 Philip called to say Trippe's team had won 5-1 against JFC. He thought they might play well and go farther in the tournament than we had first thought. We jumped in the car and headed for Jackson.
On our way, Philip called back to say they had beat the next team 6-0. We arrived for game 3. Our boys happened to lose that one, but they had played their hearts and bodies out all day. They were just plain worn out. We were entering Sunday as the first place team so our game didn't start until 11:30. We got to sleep in...which is relative with 6 people in one hotel room.
 |
| The winning goal! |
We played game four against the first team that the boys had played Saturday. We discovered this team to be a little tougher, but we won. This set the boys up for the championship game. They had not gone this far in a tournament before and they were very excited.
The game began and Gulf Coast scored fairly quickly. Our boys were tired. Half time came and went. About halfway into the 2nd half, our boys scored. The game was tied. We had watched the previous game end so we knew that they were making championship games go to a shoot-out. Our game ended in a tie. We went to the shoot out and it too ended in a tie....the drama. Next up was SUDDEN DEATH! (what an unfair way after a weekend of hard playing) Trippe was first up to kick (feel my stomach sinking-I was immediately sick). The other team went first...the referee lined the ball up...the kicker aimed, shot and missed! Next up, was my BABY. He stepped up, confidently, set the ball, kicked and SCORED! TFC 2000 Blue Boys won the Magnolia Cup!
 |
| The humble boy getting his medal |
Sunday, February 6, 2011
Wynn's BIG day!
It is Wynn's 9th Birthday. She has waited so long for this day. Not only does she get to celebrate with friends and family at her party, but she gets to finally get her ears pierced (more on that part later.)!
Wynn had several friends and family for her Cooking Birthday Party. We made each guest a personalized apron. Wynn's friends were from her class this year, preschool friends, and church friends. The girls gathered, and we had them make a personal pizza. I had pre-made the dough and the girls had toppings to make the pizza just like they liked them. While the pizzas cooked, the girls added fruit a bowl to make a fruit salad (strawberries, blueberries, grapes, pineapple, cantaloupe, honeydew). They also added different ingredients to make a morning smoothie. The girls enjoyed their smoothies while Mary Katherine lead them in games. Mary Katherine had different foods in a paper bag, she had the girls blindfolded choose a food then see what they tasted. The next game was letting the girls feed one another either yogurt or apple sauce. The catch was one girl (the eater) had her hands behind her back while the next girl (the feeder) sat behind her. This game was too funny! Trippe was the messiest recipient of apple sauce (which he hates).
The pizza was ready and the the girls enjoyed their pizza and fruit salad. The last thing for the girls to do were to ice their own cupcakes. They enjoyed adding icing and different colored sprinkles. It was finally time for Wynn to open presents. She is so blessed with sweet friends! We enjoyed a great birthday party.
Wynn's big day wasn't over post-party...she was headed to the mall to get her ears pierced. Wynn had called her Nana earlier in the week to join her. Nana had promised to get her ears pierced with Mary Katherine and Sarah ...each time she chickened out. Wynn was successful (and brave) ...she got her ears pierced first then Nana at 63 got her ears pierced for the first time. We were so proud of both girls!
We have two birthdays of our birthday season down with 3(2 parties) more to go! My how fast they grow and how quickly birthday season passes these days.
Wynn had several friends and family for her Cooking Birthday Party. We made each guest a personalized apron. Wynn's friends were from her class this year, preschool friends, and church friends. The girls gathered, and we had them make a personal pizza. I had pre-made the dough and the girls had toppings to make the pizza just like they liked them. While the pizzas cooked, the girls added fruit a bowl to make a fruit salad (strawberries, blueberries, grapes, pineapple, cantaloupe, honeydew). They also added different ingredients to make a morning smoothie. The girls enjoyed their smoothies while Mary Katherine lead them in games. Mary Katherine had different foods in a paper bag, she had the girls blindfolded choose a food then see what they tasted. The next game was letting the girls feed one another either yogurt or apple sauce. The catch was one girl (the eater) had her hands behind her back while the next girl (the feeder) sat behind her. This game was too funny! Trippe was the messiest recipient of apple sauce (which he hates).
The pizza was ready and the the girls enjoyed their pizza and fruit salad. The last thing for the girls to do were to ice their own cupcakes. They enjoyed adding icing and different colored sprinkles. It was finally time for Wynn to open presents. She is so blessed with sweet friends! We enjoyed a great birthday party.
Wynn's big day wasn't over post-party...she was headed to the mall to get her ears pierced. Wynn had called her Nana earlier in the week to join her. Nana had promised to get her ears pierced with Mary Katherine and Sarah ...each time she chickened out. Wynn was successful (and brave) ...she got her ears pierced first then Nana at 63 got her ears pierced for the first time. We were so proud of both girls!
We have two birthdays of our birthday season down with 3
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
My 1000 Gifts List
I have been reading for a while now a blog by a wonderful writer from Canada. Ann Voskamp writes on the http://www.holyexperience.com/. I must say her writing has drawn me to think about my relationship with Christ in a deeper way. I will say that it has challenged me at times to think outside my little faith box. I have been blessed, changed and moved by these post. For a while now, Ann has shared her challenge to make a list of 1000 gifts that God has given her. I have read not from the beginning so have awed at the "little" things that she finds shear joy in. I tell you I'm stretched beyond myself may Mondays as I read these post. Recently Ann (see how I use her name like I know her, I've read so much & she opens her heart that you feel like you do know her) has published her book, 1000 Gifts.
I had anticipated its arrival, and finally a week ago my package came. I was so excited to jump into finding joy through gratitude. I had been writing my list for a week before my book arrive. I just knew that I would read the book in one sitting. I must say that Ann's writings make me think so much that I've had to digest this...you know like you would a good meal. I can't just hurry through. I do not want to miss the message that God is giving me about my gratitude towards Him. Each Monday, I plan to update my list. I began my list making on January 14, 2011. I almost to 100 now so this first post will be long .So I begin my journey to gratitude...my 1000 Gifts.
1. God's word to me.
2. A wonderful family.
1. God's word to me.
2. A wonderful family.
3. The smile of a friend's baby
4. A snow day with the family
5. A cup of morning coffee
6. A husband who is growing-spiritually
7. Conversations that make you laugh (on the way to school)
8. The shocking kiss from my 8 year old every morning before she gets out of the car
9. Afternoon piano practice
10. Weekends with my family
11. Slow Saturday mornings
12. Giggle of little girls
13. The growing faith of a Sister
14. A husband who makes the best pancakes
15. Quiet time to read a good book.
16. Sunday lunch with family
17. Quite Sunday afternoons
18. Teenagers who think about serving when I forget
19. Voices of cooperation on school projects
20. Worship music
21. A day at home with the kids
22. Unexpected lunch with family
23. Uncontrolled laughter of an 8 year old girl
24. The playing of piano by a child who loves it.
25. Worshipful music on XM radio
26. Songs that remind me to be grateful for my marriage
27. Kids who could go out with friends for dinner but invite them here instead
28. Time with family and Wii games
29.Kids who pitch in to clean house for an unexpected showing
30. The unconditional love of a dog
31. Seeing a 13 week old baby move in utero & opening its mouth
32. Joy on a Mom's face as she sees her baby for the first time.
33. A warm blanket on a rainy day
34. A husband who know my needs before they are even spoken
35. Wool socks
36. Good health reports from Mom's Dr checkup
37. Books that help me see God's word a little more clearly.
38. Good report at the Dr.
39. New answers to medical questions
40. The arrival of my 1000 Gifts book
41. Soup in the freezer when cooking seems to be a challenge
42. Quiet time for a Mom's soul
43. Seeing a friend in unexpected places
44. Friends who partner with you in parenting
45. Warm cake
46. Loud laughter from family game night
47. A big hug to push away the negatives of a child's day
48. A gentle morning hug
49. Lunch with a friend
50. The smell of a green apple candle burning
51. A husband who normally carries the clothes basket for my weary arms.
52. Lunch at a place where they know what I like to eat
53.A teachers kind words about your child.
54. Ability to unexpectedly hug a sad friend
55. Energy to buy groceries
56. The sun shining
57. Beautiful sunset -pink, blue, yellow
58. Teenagers going to family movie night
59. Family movie night with friends, their kids and new friends
60. A large full moon to guide us home
61. Hugs from little girls
62. The excitement of friends leaving to adopt their first child
63. A large group of families showing up at church for movie night- YAY FAMILY!
64. Smell of bacon and pancakes
65. Hubby and little ones (10 & 8) cooking together
66. Slower weekends
67. A little girls invitation to spend the night
68. Seeing a little sister's love for older one through drawing
69. The smile from the oldest when she is with friends
70. Shopping with a child who sees it as a gift.
71. Worship words that direct me to YOU
72.A time of cleaning closets to make room
73. Godly teens who keep you focused on "mission"
74. My husbands passionate direction for our family
75. Your words aptly spoken through Pastor
76. Kind words from a child who's home is broken and turned upside down
77. Weather warmer so kids play outside and laugh
78. 16 years of life in our oldest
79. The smell of balloons-birthday season begins
80. The sun peeking through the rain clouds
81. Reminders of a Dad who is loved and missed greatly
82.God's story unfolding like a map
83. The ability to speak grace and hope to a hurting friend
84. The missing smile returning to a 16 year old
85. Friends from all walks gather to celebrate
86. Sweet baby talk
87. Little hands that discover
88. A time of rest
89. Gentle sounds of rain
90. Smell of yeast rising dough
91. The reminder from a friend of prayer for my health
92. Family dinner with the Rambos
93. A fresh shower
94. Answered prayers for a friend
95. Alone time
96. A warm cup of coffee in hand
97. Sunshine after rain.
4. A snow day with the family
5. A cup of morning coffee
6. A husband who is growing-spiritually
7. Conversations that make you laugh (on the way to school)
8. The shocking kiss from my 8 year old every morning before she gets out of the car
9. Afternoon piano practice
10. Weekends with my family
11. Slow Saturday mornings
12. Giggle of little girls
13. The growing faith of a Sister
14. A husband who makes the best pancakes
15. Quiet time to read a good book.
16. Sunday lunch with family
17. Quite Sunday afternoons
18. Teenagers who think about serving when I forget
19. Voices of cooperation on school projects
20. Worship music
21. A day at home with the kids
22. Unexpected lunch with family
23. Uncontrolled laughter of an 8 year old girl
24. The playing of piano by a child who loves it.
25. Worshipful music on XM radio
26. Songs that remind me to be grateful for my marriage
27. Kids who could go out with friends for dinner but invite them here instead
28. Time with family and Wii games
29.Kids who pitch in to clean house for an unexpected showing
30. The unconditional love of a dog
31. Seeing a 13 week old baby move in utero & opening its mouth
32. Joy on a Mom's face as she sees her baby for the first time.
33. A warm blanket on a rainy day
34. A husband who know my needs before they are even spoken
35. Wool socks
36. Good health reports from Mom's Dr checkup
37. Books that help me see God's word a little more clearly.
38. Good report at the Dr.
39. New answers to medical questions
40. The arrival of my 1000 Gifts book
41. Soup in the freezer when cooking seems to be a challenge
42. Quiet time for a Mom's soul
43. Seeing a friend in unexpected places
44. Friends who partner with you in parenting
45. Warm cake
46. Loud laughter from family game night
47. A big hug to push away the negatives of a child's day
48. A gentle morning hug
49. Lunch with a friend
50. The smell of a green apple candle burning
51. A husband who normally carries the clothes basket for my weary arms.
52. Lunch at a place where they know what I like to eat
53.A teachers kind words about your child.
54. Ability to unexpectedly hug a sad friend
55. Energy to buy groceries
56. The sun shining
57. Beautiful sunset -pink, blue, yellow
58. Teenagers going to family movie night
59. Family movie night with friends, their kids and new friends
60. A large full moon to guide us home
61. Hugs from little girls
62. The excitement of friends leaving to adopt their first child
63. A large group of families showing up at church for movie night- YAY FAMILY!
64. Smell of bacon and pancakes
65. Hubby and little ones (10 & 8) cooking together
66. Slower weekends
67. A little girls invitation to spend the night
68. Seeing a little sister's love for older one through drawing
69. The smile from the oldest when she is with friends
70. Shopping with a child who sees it as a gift.
71. Worship words that direct me to YOU
72.A time of cleaning closets to make room
73. Godly teens who keep you focused on "mission"
74. My husbands passionate direction for our family
75. Your words aptly spoken through Pastor
76. Kind words from a child who's home is broken and turned upside down
77. Weather warmer so kids play outside and laugh
78. 16 years of life in our oldest
79. The smell of balloons-birthday season begins
80. The sun peeking through the rain clouds
81. Reminders of a Dad who is loved and missed greatly
82.God's story unfolding like a map
83. The ability to speak grace and hope to a hurting friend
84. The missing smile returning to a 16 year old
85. Friends from all walks gather to celebrate
86. Sweet baby talk
87. Little hands that discover
88. A time of rest
89. Gentle sounds of rain
90. Smell of yeast rising dough
91. The reminder from a friend of prayer for my health
92. Family dinner with the Rambos
93. A fresh shower
94. Answered prayers for a friend
95. Alone time
96. A warm cup of coffee in hand
97. Sunshine after rain.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Birthday Season Is Here
It has officially begun... our birthday season. I've called it this for the past 8 years because beginning January 24 we celebrate 5 birthdays in the next six weeks. I seems like we get one birthday planned and it is time for the next. We have always made a big deal of birthdays around here. I feel like it is the only day that is truly yours to celebrate....except for the fact that 10 years ago (almost 11) I began to share my day with Trippe. (more on that to come).
Mary Katherine kicks us off with our birthday season. This is a BIG year for her. MK celebrated her Sweet Sixteenth Birthday yesterday. We asked her shortly after Christmas what she wanted to do for her big birthday. She really had no big plans. I was asked by a friend who owned a local restaurant what our plans were. When she found out they were not big then all plans changed. She offered us the use of her restaurant for a surprise party. The planning began. I let MK think she was going with friends to her favorite restaurant Ichiban then to see Soundwave perform. All along, a couple of her friends and I planned this party.
She was sneaky and tried figuring us out, but she didn't have all the details. Friends gathered at Romie's on her birthday. We had told her that we would go out to eat as a family (with Bud) for her big day. We arrived at Romies, Bud opened the door and her friends yelled SURPRISE! She smiled so big. I think she smile most of the night. We had her itunes playing, food was set and everyone visited with one another. Mary Katherine is so blessed to call many people friend. Philip told her that he was so proud that she was friends with so many.(That is just her kind-hearted spirit.) She truly sees the good in all people.
Among her friends were some of her youngest friends...Jessie Lee, Mary Lawson, Pinchy and Lilla. MK was excited to share her day with them also.
Mary Katherine kicks us off with our birthday season. This is a BIG year for her. MK celebrated her Sweet Sixteenth Birthday yesterday. We asked her shortly after Christmas what she wanted to do for her big birthday. She really had no big plans. I was asked by a friend who owned a local restaurant what our plans were. When she found out they were not big then all plans changed. She offered us the use of her restaurant for a surprise party. The planning began. I let MK think she was going with friends to her favorite restaurant Ichiban then to see Soundwave perform. All along, a couple of her friends and I planned this party.
She was sneaky and tried figuring us out, but she didn't have all the details. Friends gathered at Romie's on her birthday. We had told her that we would go out to eat as a family (with Bud) for her big day. We arrived at Romies, Bud opened the door and her friends yelled SURPRISE! She smiled so big. I think she smile most of the night. We had her itunes playing, food was set and everyone visited with one another. Mary Katherine is so blessed to call many people friend. Philip told her that he was so proud that she was friends with so many.(That is just her kind-hearted spirit.) She truly sees the good in all people.
Among her friends were some of her youngest friends...Jessie Lee, Mary Lawson, Pinchy and Lilla. MK was excited to share her day with them also.
Monday, January 17, 2011
OH SNOW!
Tupelo forecast for Sunday, January 9 was SNOW. We were predicted to have 3-8 inches of Snow. Philip was working in Amory. Trippe was playing with Jett. The girls and I were hanging out at the house. Trippe called about spending the night with Jett and we saw flurries as we went down to his house. We continued to watch out the window to see snow and more snow. The weather was continually forecast to be worse. We talked Philip into coming home an hour early. The roads were covered, but he made it home safely. (bragging about his wagon getting him here) We woke Monday to find 6 1/2 inches of snow.Schools were closed and work was canceled for Philip. We have not seen snow like this. We could not even see the bushes in our front flowerbed. Wynn and Philip went out front and played in the snow with Amos and the neighbors (Mr. Pat and Mrs. Amy).
We finally got the older girls to wake up. They slowly made their way outside to find us playing. The reactions were not as excited as we would have liked. We quickly decided this was Dad's and kids surprise days off so we would make the most of it.
We piled on every warm item we could find, loaded the car, called some friends then headed out to Ballard Park for some fun! We took MK to hang with friends at Kacie's where they had made a GIANT snowman. Her XC friends walked down the street to a hill where they slid in the snow.
The rest of us and a few more friends headed to Ballard Park. We slid down the hills, rolled giant snow balls, had snow ball fights, made snow angels, and laughed a whole lot!
We wrapped up our day of fun with a bowl of SNOW CREAM!
A fun fact about all of this snow was that it was a lot of white stuff for our area, but on that day 49 of the 50 states had snow. The only missing state was FL.
We finally got the older girls to wake up. They slowly made their way outside to find us playing. The reactions were not as excited as we would have liked. We quickly decided this was Dad's and kids surprise days off so we would make the most of it.
We piled on every warm item we could find, loaded the car, called some friends then headed out to Ballard Park for some fun! We took MK to hang with friends at Kacie's where they had made a GIANT snowman. Her XC friends walked down the street to a hill where they slid in the snow.
We wrapped up our day of fun with a bowl of SNOW CREAM!
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas
Our family enjoys Christmas traditions. We bake strawberry bread,spiced tea, hot chocolate, a candy making day with Merissa, drawing names among the siblings, tagging and decorating the biggest Leland Cypress tree that we can find, and listening to Christmas music. Several years ago we made Christmas Eve our family event. We spend the day delivering the last of the Strawberry Bread and making gumbo. We begin the end of our night with Christmas Eve Candlelight Service at the Orchard.
This year we woke up on Christmas morning to a White Christmas. I've never seen a white Christmas as far as I can remember, but we looked outside to find this.
We woke at 6 which was unusual for our children. Philip made sure that Santa had arrived and made Mom a pot of coffee. The kids lined up to find what Santa had left them this year. We found a den full of gifts...
Amos was alarmed that the den was covered in stuff and that the stockings were moved. He barked and curiously walked through our gift exchange for a while.
We enjoyed seeing all the gifts that Santa had left then exchanging gifts from one another.
After our gift exchange, we ate our traditional Christmas morning breakfast...Sausage Balls and Cinnamon Rolls! We bundled up and enjoyed our Christmas present from the Lord.
We threw snowballs, rolled a snowman, and enjoyed the beauty of the morning.
We stayed out as long as we could stand it. The snow was falling in big flakes and continued to pile up. One last job for the kids was...
GOTCHA! MERRY WHITE CHRISTMAS! Thank you Lord for showing us your GLORY!
This year we woke up on Christmas morning to a White Christmas. I've never seen a white Christmas as far as I can remember, but we looked outside to find this.
We woke at 6 which was unusual for our children. Philip made sure that Santa had arrived and made Mom a pot of coffee. The kids lined up to find what Santa had left them this year. We found a den full of gifts...
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