Sea World 2011

On Christmas Day, our family spent a full day at Sea World. It was absolutely amazing for all of us! This past semester we have been studying the "Water Creatures of the 5th Day", so to actually see them up close was a bonus. The first thing the boys wanted to do was ride the Journey to Atlantis water ride before all the crowds got there. Needless-to-say, we rode it 3 more times before we left. After that we headed over to the sea lions and seals exhibit....it was fun finding each now that we know the differences. :-) Then off to the penguins, string rays, and dolphins. We also went to 4 shows that day; 2 Clyde and Seymour Shows and 2 Orca/Killer Whale shows. Clyde and Seymour are sea lions that are highly trained to mimic adults, clap, obey, jump on queue. THe boys loved them, but mom's favorite was Walter the walrus. He was so ugly he was cute!!!! I couldn't believe the size of these creatures. Lastly, Tate's favorite was the orca shows. We watched these massive animals jump, flip, splash, spin, and pose. Both orcas shows the boys wanted to sit in the splash zone...not too bad!



Throughout the day the had "street entertainment" and in this scene you will recognize 2 of our guys:-) shakin' it! Imagine that! haha

Salem Scott

I have been so excited to share this precious little picture!! My roomie from college, Amy Scott, and her family have been in an endearing pursuit of this precious soul. I have had the privilege to walk alongside adopting families and this one has been the longest journey. Their paper work has been done and sitting in China for over 5 years, so to watch their patience and grace to raise their own funds, adopt another little one in the waiting, and commit this little one to the Lord has taught me so much!!! Amy and Drew serve at a church in Chattanooga, TN, but both grew up around Winston-Salem, NC. Please pray for Salem as they all adjust to a new normal and big brother Jonathan adjusts to sharing momma and daddy.

Making a Joyful Noise

Hello Friends!!!
It's been awhile, but for some reason our settings were changed and I couldn't for the life of me figure out what to do, until today. Ta-da....so this is the first of a few posts needing to share. Owen is in his 2nd year of violin and it has brought more perseverance, diligence, and patience on everyone as he has worked hard. Here is one of two songs he played at his recital before Christmas. We have been super proud of him and his commitment to it.

7 SWEET years

Edible soccerballs
Celebration Snack

Playing the "Nothin' or Noggin'" heading game


All of Griffin's "Soccer Team"

We have had such a fun time celebrating Griffin the last few days. On Sunday we had a soccer party with some of his friends. He loved it! We played a game of soccer, a heading game, and crab game which made everyone laugh.

Here are 7 of the many things I love about Grif!

1- hugs and snuggles on the couch
2- the ways he adores his brothers
3- his hearty laughter
4- his compassion for animals
5- his perseverance and diligence
6- the way he has a comfortable confidence
7- gentleness

Sweet Jesus, thank you for placing Griffin right in the middle of our family. He has a very special role of being a big brother and younger brother, and you knew his place in our family before time. We pray that you will continue to grow him in his tenderness towards you. You have uniquely gifted him for your work, and we pray that he continues to see himself in that light. Thank you for letting us walk this journey with him, because it is an honor to be his momma!

Soccer time!

Griffin once again wanted to play soccer after LOVING it last Spring. Last Sat. was his 1st game and the GREEN EAGLES did great. They played really well as a team and had a fun time. A few of the same players returned from last season, and Griffin's little best buddy, Jackson, joined him this yr. Here is a picture of a after game "funny faces." Grif scored 2 goals in his 1st game and he and Jackson both scored yesterday!! Way to go EAGLES!!

turning 5

A little over a week ago, Tate turned 5!
We love his.....
adventure
intesity
fun
loving nature
rocking himself to self
indepedence
loudness
gentle touch at times
belly laughter
smiles
hugs
desire to hang with the big guys
tenderness towards mommy
carefreeness


For his birthday he didn't want a party....the only thing was to take his little friend, Caroline, out to eat and anything and everything BIBLEMAN. (Owen was a little concerned he was having a date before he was.lol) So, we invited their family to join ours at MOE's for his birthday. You will notice he is wearing a cape, it's BIBLEMAN. Yes, he WAS Bibleman on his birthday, and most days since then. ;-) Tate has sweet affections for his family and friends, and we love that about him. Many times within a day I will hear him say, "I love you sweet dawling!" Ok, melt my heart, sweet! Another gentle moment is now when he wants to brush my hair or when he is playing with younger friends. God is really growing him and molding him into a nurturer and lover of people and for that I am grateful! I am willing to wait and savor this time with him, but it excites me to think of the plans God has for his life.

Beach 2011

In July, our family spent some much needed time at the beach after Chad finished his last semester of classwork!! The first few days at the beach, Poppy, Yaya, Aunt Jen & Uncle Derek, the girls, and Aunt Chel were at the same beach so we had the treat of being together! The boys loved being around them since we don't see them much. THe rest of the week, we just soaked up the sun and lots of family time. We boarded, built, and (actually read a book).
That was definitely a new/uncomfortable change. Chad and I got to experience the fellas growing independence from us. I mean, it was great to watch them lean on each other more, but it was hard. I sat there some moments thinking, "Don't they need me?" It was a WEIRD moment for me since this was a first in 8 yrs. As a mom, I have found comfort in being needed by someone, but the freedom on the sand introduced me to glimpses of a new season. Chad and I really enjoyed talking together in our chairs, reading, and relaxing more than ever before. But with that change, I can see how parents must work at keeping the communication going with their kiddos. (enough about my sentiments :-))
The 2 weeks after the beach, the fellas had "Grandparent Camp." A special treat for ALL! THey spent time with Grandma Jo and Cam, Poppy and Yaya, and then a week with Grandmother. By the end, everyone was worn out and the boys have a bookful of memories in their heads to carry them till next time.