Completion of 5th grade

The completion of a school year is always an exciting time, but this year in particular we are filled with mixed emotions as it signifies not just the end of another year for Wesley, but the end of elementary school. The last week of school was full of celebration as the 5th graders held a special field day, enjoyed a cookout at school, and even had a celebratory walk through the halls of the school while cheered on by the faculty and student body. But, of course, the promotion ceremony was the big finale. We are so proud of Wesley, our oldest. His drive and determination have earned him a reputation as an accomplished student, while his confidence and courage have earned him the reputation of a leader among his peers. We praise God for the work that he has begun in Wesley and are believing Him to see it through to completion. We can't wait to see what the coming years hold in store!



I love that I can totally read my son's expressions (they are just like his Dad's!). This one has a lot of excitement and a little nervousness written all over it!

This one says, "Oh my, this is going to be a very long night . . . ."

Can't say anything about this one. My eyes were too misty to see anything. This was Wesley receiving the award for the Gifted Student of the Year.

Here he is receiving his certificate from his teacher, Mrs. Bailey.

Too cool for words . . .

But not too cool for a backwards glance to make sure we are watching.

Did I say how proud I am??

Mother's Day 2010

Celebrating my Fabulous Four!

"Making the decision to have a child is momentous. It is to decide forever to have your heart go walking around outside of your body."

Elizabeth Stone

"A mother is she who can take the place of all others but whose place no one else can take."

Cardinal Mermillod

Okay, so a couple of months ago we managed to get ourselves talked into participating in an event called the Warrior Dash. "It's going to be so much fun! There are all of these awesome obstacles. Everybody's doing it . . . And, when you finish you get a cool viking hat and a chicken leg!" Well, being a graduate of Berry College (Go Vikings!), when they mentioned the viking hat I felt something begin to well up in me (possibly pride, probably a warning I should have heeded), but to be totally honest they sold me with the chicken leg! What can I say, I'm a girl with a good appetite.



So, a few days before the race the excitement began to mount. Chuck mentioned that he thought we should all have some common racewear for the event. I'm thinking cut-offs, tye-dyed t-shirts - edgy, right!? Oh, no. We all met up the day of the race in the Walmart parking lot where we proceeded to don orange prison detail jumpsuits, bandanas, and various tatoos. I would like to pause for a moment to proclaim my innocence in these matters. I am guilty only by association. As the good book says, "Bad company corrupts good character." I am still working to rebuild my reputation, but that's an on-going story to be continued at a later day.



On to the races . . .

I think this picture says it all . . . not exactly sure what that is, so I'll just keep it open-ended.

This is pre-race, suited up, in the Walmart parking lot. I think it must have been senior citizen day at Walmart. You can only imagine the looks. I'm convinced there were several anonymous 911 calls that morning. The Rabun County police may still be looking for a few fugitives.

Here we are nearing the end of the race. I'm the dark one in front - that would be mud, by the way. And that would be Chuck BEHIND ME. Come on, Baby, catch me if you can . . .

The whole posse - Post Race.

WEEKEND WARRIORS - Shhhh, don't tell, please. It'll never happen again. (At least until next year.)

Taking the Stage

Riley Catherine took the stage the next to last weekend in May for her ballet recital. It was the culmination of another great year at The Studio at Trinity Christian Fellowship. This year was particularly special as Riley Catherine and Anna Beth Stokes were in class together. Here they are taking the stage for tap.

And here she is during her ballet routine. She was beautiful and graceful, and I was so proud!

Getting flowers from her brothers. (Who are contemplating at this moment how this 2 hours of torture could possibly compare to the seasons of little league, swim meets, and basketball games that Riley Catherine has had to sit through for them. They have so much catching up to do.)

The best part of the day: sharing the spotlight with a friend.

WILL'S 9TH BIRTHDAY

Will has wanted a football birthday party for 3 years. For the past two years, the weather has not complied, but this year Will got his wish. When I asked him what he wanted to do he replied, "Mom, I just want to play football - nothing else." So, there you go. Play Ball!

The Field

The Kick-Off

The First Play

(Brother against brother)

The Smack

The Star Player

(Come on, he's the birthday boy.)

The Rookies

The Spectators

The Pundants

The Food

The Celebration

The Pinata

(Kick-off style)

The End!