Baseball Summer '09

We have had a great summer of baseball....more details to come...

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Vegas Vacation June 2009

I know that I have not been faithfully updating my blog this summer....well I actually haven't updated at all! We have been sooo busy and had the best summer ever! We began with our first ever Vegas Vacation! Bruce had been before, but I had not, so we treated ourselves to a trip for our 9th anniversary! I must say that this was the best vacation ever. We had a great time and can't wait to go back!

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Eighth Grade Awards Day

Today was Peyton's Middle School Awards Day. He was chosen to receive the Algebra/Math award and the Literature Awards. He was also recognized for representing the school in the Roane County Spelling Bee earlier this year. We are so proud of Peyton and I am appreciative that I have a boss that is understanding about the importance of family and let me attend his ceremony today.

As Peyton closes this chapter of his life and looks forward to beginning his High School career, I pray that he will continue to make good decisions, study hard, follow Christ, and continue the path that has gotten him where he is now. I hope that he is always happy and always remembers how many people love him so very much!

Congratulations, Peyton! We love you!

Peyton and his buddies...

Showing his medals...

Brooke and Peyton...almost all grown up...

Mrs. Kirkham, Literature teacher, and Peyton

Peyton and Mr. Lem Hill, Algebra teacher

WooHoo!!! Last full week of school!!!

We have made it through the last full week of school!!! Next Monday, Memorial Day, I will have my annual swimming party for the kids. On Tuesday, they all get to go meet their teacher for next year. On Wednesday, the kids will enjoy the last 1/2 day of school with me and say their goodbyes to Miss Daryl :o(. Of course I have to work until Friday, but the year is pretty much over. I can't wait for summer and my trip to Vegas in a couple of weeks!

Happy Mother's Day

Happy Mother's Day to everyone. I am very lucky to have my mom. She is an amazing lady who continues to give all that she has for her kids and grandkids. I don't tell her enough how much she is appreciated!

I am also blessed with a wonderful Mother-in-Law! I know not many people can say that, but I can! She is so good to all of us!

Today, Joe and Nikki dedicated Sailor in the Mother's Day dedication at church. They looked so pretty (Nikki and Sailor...you looked alright too, Joe). Our preacher took turns holding the three babies that were dedicated before it was Sailor's turn. He reached for her and said, "And do I get to hold you?", ha,ha, Sailor quickly replied, "NOOOOO"! I am so proud of her and their family. I can't wait to meet Sailor's baby brother who will be here in August!

Happy Mother's Day to all of you new mommies and mommies to be! Enjoy this day, because before you know it, you will be watching them head into high school!

Sungrins on Mother's Day!!!

Sailor showing off her Bible she got at her dedication!

Nana and her grand babies...mine just aren't babies anymore!

Sailor's Mother's Day dedication

How to Rear Children Without Raising Cain, Ephesians 5:21-6:2

I would like to share with you the sermon notes from our service this morning. This message is especially meaningful to me, as I'm sure it will be to other parents as well.

Introduction: One of life's greatest challenges is to rear children in the "nurture and the admonition of the Lord". Regardless of your age or your family situation, you have a responsibility toward children.

Five Traits to instill in children/grandchildren:
1. To lead them to love and obey God.
2. To help them have a good self image.
3. To teach them to take responsibility.
4. To develop in them a positive attitude.
5. To guide them to have a thankful heart.

Ten steps to accomplishing these goals.
10. Set a good example- especially in the home.
9. Give unconditional love.
8. Provide loving discipline.
7. Supply spiritual and moral training in the home.
6. Set high expectations and goals.
5. Spend time with them.
4. Show a strong, loving relationship in the home.
3. Teach respect for authority.
2. Encourage the right kind of friends for your children.
1. Pray daily for your children.

Conclusion: One of the great laments of the Bible is heard in the words of David: "My son Absolom - if only I had died in your place." (II Samuel 18:33)

Praying for Stellan

Some of you may already know of this story. If you do not, please visit the following link to read about the journey of this family and the struggle to help their youngest child.
www.mycharmingkids.net
In honor of little Stellan, and his surgery today, many people all over the world are wearing orange today showing their support and continued prayers. Please join me and many others in praying for this little boy.