Our Surprise Airport Tour & Hitting the Road Again!

This past Monday night, Jeremy, Stephen, Caleb, and I went to Chick-fil-a with some friends from the Summit. The guy, Chris, is a personal pilot for Progress Energy. We were telling him how crazy Stephen is about trains and planes when Chris volunteered to give us a "tour" at RTP. Stephen was so excited on the drive (it's like 2 miles) over there. With a swipe of Chris' ID card we were in the private hangar of Progress Energy. Their 3 beautiful white planes were calling Stephen's name! Chris let the door down on one, and we all crawled inside. The inside was amazing to say the least. Stephen sat in the pilot's seat and turned the wheel this way and that. Chris turned on all the "dashboard" lights and gave Stephen a "3 year old flying lesson!" He was wide-eyed. Chris then let Stephen help him open the hangar door and walk right out beside the runway. The planes were so close! Jeremy and I enjoyed seeing everything up-close as much as Stephen did. It was a definitely a night Stephen will always remember.
It's now Thursday and in about an hour, we're headed for the beach. Union Grove invited me to come on their annual Junion High Girls' Beach trip! I am so excited! Jeremy's gonna stay with the Laniers and play some golf tomorrow. My Mom and Dad are bringing Stephen and Caleb on Friday, and we'll all stay at my parent's beach place until late Sunday. Jeremy has an appointment on Sunday with another Children's Pastor in Wilmington. We'll worship there and then head back home. Pray that we'll be safe and that the Lord would use me as I share with the UG girls tonight and tomorrow. Can't wait!=)

Bye Bye House...

This weekend was very busy. In addition to Stephen's t-ball game on Saturday (He did pretty good again. It was just SO hot!), we finished moving stuff out of our house in Winston. This is actually our third move during this whole transition. We moved the first time in December when we took only the stuff we temporarily needed. In April we moved a second time to our apartment in Durham. That time we took our furniture and the stuff we would need while not living my my parents. On Saturday, the third time, we moved everything out of the garage and various odds and ends we had left behind. Truthfully, there will be one more move where we'll get Stephen's swingset and a couple other large outdoor things that we can't use until we get our next home. Saturday went very smoothly, though. We had Jeremy's SUV, my Dad's truck, and Joe and Sandy's SUV and trailer. Every vechile was completely packed. We are so thankful that Joe and Sandy came. They worked incredibly hard, and we could not have done it without them. We also got to meet our future "tenants." They're a young couple with 3 kids who are very excited about the house. They had already begun moving things it, and the house looked beautiful. They seem almost as excited as we were when we first built the house! While so relieved that someone is moving in, it was also a little bit sad. Jeremy and I loved our home, and truly built it thinking that we would be there forever (which is kinda foolish at such a young age-anyhoo!). I remember saying to Jeremy last August, "Jeremy, I am as happy and content here as I've ever been before. I guarantee you'll get a call from another church soon." And how right I was! The Summit called the following week!=) In the midst of the "sadness" of saying goodbye to our "home," we are excited to begin the search for a new one. We love it here in Durham and are thankful God's plans are not our own. His will for us is so perfect. May we trust Him daily (in every "move" of life!).

Our Home in Winston



More Baseball!!!!

The "Disney Wall!"

Before I explain the "Disney Wall," I have to say that Jeremy and I had an amazing trip to Greensboro for our anniversary. Grandover was so good for us. We had a couple's massage, sat by the pool (they served us lunch), and just relaxed for the afternoon. On Tuesday, we were still "childless," so I started cleaning out some of the toys at the Summit. Organizing is so much fun for me; I know it sounds weird, but I truly love it! Late Tuesday night, Jeremy's Mom called and said that Stephen was sick. We immediately got in the car and headed to Winston (We were planning on going the following morning anyways.). We got there around midnight, and Stephen was finally asleep. Thank the Lord he has not had any more "episodes" since. This morning we attended Triad's VBS to get some ideas and meet with their children's pastor. It was a huge help and very motivational. Finally, we headed back to Raleigh and picked Caleb up in Graham on our way through. We are back home, with the boys, and getting back in the daily groove. It was a great weekend, though, and I'm so glad we took some time out for ourselves.
So...the Disney Wall! The 4 of us are headed to Disney on September 27! We will be there Sunday through Saturday. Jeremy and I are so excited! I am truly a Disney fanatic! I would go there every year (maybe several times a year!) and never get tired of it! One of the best parts for me, though, is the planning! I love it! We've been planning this trip since Disney released the September dates. I made our dining reservations on the first day we could. We've got character dining each day we're there!=) I also read the 2009 edition of The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World a couple of months ago! We know which park we're going to and on which days. Our touring plans are calling our names (and believe me, we'll follow them to the tee!). If there's anything I know about Disney, it's that the touring plans are a must. Otherwise, you roam around the park all day and wait in ridiculous lines. That's not for us; especially with the boys. All of that said, though, we are flexible. It's a vacation, and we're not gonna be completely tied to a plan. If Stephen sees something he'd like to do; we're there! And in the midst of all this planning, we've also gotten great prices on our room (we're staying on Disney property-and have already reserved our pack-n-play for Caleb) and our flights! We are so pscyhed! Just today, we got the personalized Disney maps that I ordered (They're free when you stay at a Disney World Resort.). We've taped them to the wall with a daily countdown til when we leave. Stephen gets to pull off one number a day until we reach 1! Yes, this is all crazy, but it's so much fun! We want Stephen to remember Disney, but also to remember the fun (and waiting) that happens before! If you need any Disney planning advice, I'd love to share! Disney is definitely one of my things!=) Let the countdown begin!=)

Us after 7 years!=)

The indoor pool at Grandover

The outdoor pool at Grandover

The Disney Wall!!!!!!!

Exciting Days Ahead!

First off, we have officially rented our house! The tenants move in on August 1. They're a young family with 3 children. I believe they are more excited than we are!=) Their ultimate goal is to buy the home, so we will see what happens a year from now. For today, though, we so thankful God sent someone. Let the house seraching begin!
Secondly, Stephen had his first t-ball game today. Because he's jersey #1, he led off the first hit of the season! His coach made a big deal about it! We were proud, and he hit the ball well. The hour that they play is so funny! The kids do well, but there's a lot of chaos. When we get our new Flip, I can start posting videos!=)
So, Monday is our 7th wedding anniversary, and we have some big plans!=) Tomorrow morning, after church, we're headed to Greensboro. Caleb is staying with my parents, and Stephen is staying in Winston. Jeremy and I are spending one night at the hotel where we stayed on our wedding night before flying to Jamaica. On Monday, we're going to Grandover Resort and Spa for massages and some "us time" at the pool. We're splurging!=) We'll pick Caleb up on the way home Monday, but Stephen will stay in Winston til Wednesday. He'll also be going to UG's VBS each night he's there. We're headed back to Winston Wednesday, so Jeremy can check out another church's children's program and get some ideas for the Summit. We'll pick Stephen up then. I'm truthfully dreading being away from him for so long, but Jeremy keeps reminding me: "It's worth the 'sacrifice,' so Stephen can be a blessing to others." I agree. So, there it is. The days ahead, and some pictures from Stephen's first t-ball game!

Joseph Remembered

Things are still a little "real estate crazy" here! We're in the process of choosing a renter and, all of a sudden, the house is being shown like every day! Continue to pray that we'll have wisdom.
As I posted earlier, I've been reading through the book of Genesis. It has been so interesting. I've gotten to the point that I long to read it, just like you would a good fiction novel. God's Word really is amazing! Last week, I followed several Biblical couples from Abraham & Sarah, to Isaac & Rebekah, to Jacob & Rachel (and Leah!), and finally to the story of Joseph. I've been amazed at how we, as women, have always tried to take things into our own hands; how we've rushed God's plans. Eventually, yes, His will is accomplished, but not without unneeded heartache. For example, Sarah: gave Abraham her servant Hagar since she "couldn't" have a baby (Genesis 16). Rebekah: deceived Isaac so Jacob could get the blessing instead of Esau (Genesis 27). Rachel: gave Jacob her servant Bilhah since she "couldn't" have a baby (Genesis 30). And, trust me, the cycle continues. I see it daily as I choose my plans over God's; as I rush things when He says wait.
The story of Joseph has also come alive to me. I've never really read it in this light. The most amazing verses so far have been Genesis 40:14,15 where Joseph, after interpreting the cup-bearer's dream, says, "And please remember me and do me a favor when things go well for you. Mention me to Pharaoh, so he might let me out of this place. For I was kidnapped from my homeland, the land of the Hebrews, and now I'm here in prison, but I did nothing to deserve it." I love how Joseph hasn't forgotten where he came from. He doesn't dwell on the past, but he does remember it. It's a part of who he is. More importantly, it's a part of God's incredible plan. I guess I've always thought that Joseph sat in that prison in a "good mood." That he sung praise choruses all day and blessed God! Besides, like all Biblical characters, he was a "super Christian!"...Really?=) That's not the case at all, though. I'm sure Joseph had a great spirit in spite of his circumstances, but from this verse, I also understand that he had down days. Days when he remembered the life he could have had as opposed to the life he had. Maybe even days where he felt anger at his brothers. These thoughts, however, were probably abnormal for Joseph. He knew how to turn his past hurts into possibilities, because he knew the God he served. And boy did God ever have a plan! Joseph knew that God "means everything for our good." If I could just understand that and have a healthy view of the past (yet not forgetting), then maybe I could change the cycle of taking things into my own hands as women throughout the generations have been doing!


That smile!!!!


I got a little help folding clothes!=)

Cows!=)

Yes, we officially humbled ourselves to the state of cows for some free Chic-fil-a on Friday! Stephen thought it was the greatest thing in the world!=) He helped cut out the dots and was so excited to put them on. We got so much chicken that night that I've bagged some up for lunches this week. Great times!=)




On Saturday, Stephen had his second t-ball practice, and they took team pictures. When we got in the car to leave, he said, "Did you hear the coach tell the other team to back up when it was my turn to bat?" And yes, we had heard him!=) So glad that Stephen did, though. He was admittedly proud of himself!




We spent Saturday at my parents' house where we cooked out and had homemade banana icecream. Yum!=) Jeremy played golf in the afternoon, and we headed back to Raleigh. Today's been busy (but great) with church. Things are still going well with renting our house. We've got 3 good prospects and will make a final decision this week. I'll keep everyone posted but pray that we have wisdom.

As far as my continuing (and lifelong) spiritual journey, I've been reading through the book of Genesis. It has been awesome as I have followed the personal journeys of several Old Testament women. I'll definitely blog about this once I finish the book. Good stuff!=)

My Realtor Hat...

The past few days have been crazy to say the least. We pray and pray for God to do something and then are shocked when He actually answers. First off, before anyone assumes, we have not sold our house. We have, however, found some people who are eager to rent it. Here's how it's gone: I posted our home for rent on Craigslist the first of the week. Since then, Joe and Judy (God bless their willing hearts!) have shown it at least 5 times! We have 2 couples who presently want it: one to rent and one to rent to own. We are working through all the details while they are filling out potential paperwork. I have literally spent hours (and yes, that's against what I believe) on this computer e-mailing people back and forth and so on. I take off my Mommy hat while the boys are napping and slip on the Realtor hat I didn't know I owned!=) We are excited but cautious about this. Our ultimate goal is to sale, but we know God has other plans for right now. We want to be wise and follow Him. Please keep us (and those interested) in your prayers. I'll keep you posted!



One day while I was "working," I noticed precious Caleb. He had fallen asleep in the living room floor! I put him in his bed where he completed his nap! What a sweetie!=)

Family Day!

Our July 4th weekend continued through Monday since Jeremy had the day off. That morning we headed to the Durham Museum of Life and Science. Stephen and I had been there before but never Jeremy. It is so awesome! The teacher in me loves all the educational stuff!=) It's fun at the same time, though. In fact, we loved it so much that we bought an annual pass. That way we can go anytime, and I can take the boys during the week. The pass is for 4 people, so if anyone would like to go with us somtime (for free), that'd be awesome! It would be worth the drive!=) Later Monday night, we walked to Chic-fil-a for a milkshake. Stephen played in the Playplace and was the only little person in there. Funny story while there: Stephen told me he had to "poop," so I rushed him across the restaurant to the bathroom. Not to be utterly gross, but we had success.=) For some reason, he sometimes still struggles with this. Anyhoo, as we were walking back across Chic-fil-a, Stephen spotted his Daddy through the Playplace window. Without realizing Jeremy couldn't hear him, but everyone else in the restaurant could, Stephen shouted "I pooped!" He then began to sing, "I pooped, I pooped, I pooped," at the top of his lungs! I put my hand over his mouth and busted out laughing! It was classic! What an experience having little boys (and I hear it only gets worse!).=) So, Tuesday night, we headed back to Chic-fil-a. Grant it, we ate at the apartment first and only went for Family Night. Stephen loves making the crafts and sometimes they give away free icecream. In preparation for Friday, which is Cow Appreciation Day (if you dress like a cow you get a free Value Meal-we are planning on doing this-anything for free food!), the craft that night was making a sign. Stephen was so proud of his and hung in on his bedroom door when we got home. I'll have to post pictures of us on Friday. What a hoot it should be!=) Today (Wednesday) my Mom and Grandma came up and kept Stephen and Caleb, so I could help Jeremy out at church some. We also had a SummitKids get together tonight at the apartment clubhouse. Right now, Stephen and Caleb are both asleep, and I really need to get off here and spend some quality time with Jeremy. During devo's tonight, we read about God's Word. The page had Stephen circle what he loved more: a picture of money or a picture of God's Word. Stephen whole-heartedly circled money! Oops! Jeremy tried to explain to him how money doesn't even compare to God's Word. He asked Stephen what he would do with money, and I must admit I felt pride when Stephen said, "Put it in the bank." Yes, "give it to God" would have been a better response, but I'll take saving as an okay response!=) He (and we too) have so much to learn! What an adventure!=)

Stephen taking a quick pose in front of some flowers at the musem...not his favorite thing, that's for sure!=)

Jeremy and Stephen rode this ride thing that shows how birds fly. It was pretty cool!

Caleb had a fun time too!

Stephen and his Chic-fil-a sign! He looks like a little Chic-fil-a billboard!=)

Happy Belated July 4th!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

What an awesome weekend we had! Even today was a great family day for us with Jeremy being off work! I'll start with Thursday. Around noon Thursday, we packed up the car (and it really seems like packing with 4 of us now!) and headed to Winston for the weekend. Jeremy played golf in the afternoon, and the boys and I hung out at both Nana and Paw-Paw's and Joe and Judy's. We had great fellowship, and Stephen played and played til all of us were exhausted. On Friday morning, we had breakfast, and Stephen played on Nana and Paw-Paw's slip-n-slide. I didn't bring him any swimming trunks, so he enjoyed his water time in his undies! The pictures are cute right now, but I'm sure he'll love them when he gets to be about 13!=) To celebrate the 4th (yes, a day early) with Jeremy's family, we spent Friday afternoon at Dan Nicholas Park. We actually used the shelter I had earlier reserved for Stephen's 3rd birthday. It had rained that Saturday in April, so we had to move his party indoors. Thankfully, the park allowed me to move our shelter reservation to July 3. It worked out perfectly. Stephen had a great time playing with his cousins. They rode the train and carousel, saw the animal exhibit, and played lots on the playground. We had a KFC "cookout" and watermelon for supper! It was fun, and we made some great memories! On Saturday we went out for breakfast and then cooked out with Jeremy's parents and Joe and Judy. Stephen played baseball in the backyard after we ate. Later that evening we headed back "home." I use that term loosely as my heart is in 2 places. Each time we leave Winston, I say to Jeremy "were we crazy?". Things were so good for us there. We had a home, great ministry, and family and friends who would do anything for us. We were comfortable. And that, we both realize, is part of why God moved us. As much as I miss our "old life" I truly love it here! This is God's plan for us. Has it been easy? No way. But Jeremy and I learned a couple years ago that God doesn't promise us a life of ease. He promises to be with us and to guide us as we trust Him. And once again, that is what we're doing! What an exciting ride! Back to the weekend...that was a total rabbit trail! On Saturday night, when we got back to the apartment, Stephen and Caleb went right to bed. They were so exhausted. Around 9, Jeremy and I heard a loud boom. We walked onto our porch and saw some amazingly beautiful fireworks. The shopping center connected to our apartment complex was hosting a July 4th celebration and set off some awesome fireworks. We literally had one of the best views "in the house" and didn't even plan on it! Somehow, both the boys slept through them (and thankfully, since Stephen is scared to death of fireworks). All in all, it was a great weekend! This post has become way too long, so I will save everything we did today for another time! Happy belated July 4th! Hope yours was awesome!

Lovin' the Water!!!!

The total best thing about living in this apartment (besides the smallness of it...less to clean, cheaper electric bills, easy walk to Chic-Fil-A for dinner, and of course, the closeness to work for Jeremy) is hands-down...the pool! With gas being so high now, I'm trying to keep off the roads during the day as much as possible. This morning, we walked to the pool! Stephen does great in the water and floats around everywhere by himself. Caleb, on the other hand, would much rather crawl around on the hot concrete. He's just not a water baby! After the pool this morning, Stephen noticed a sprinkler watering the lawn outside our apartment. He (nor I) could resist. We laid our bags down, and he had the time of his life! I really think he enjoyed running around in the sprinkler as much as the past hour he had spent in the pool! This short time of watching him made me long for a home of our own once again. As I said earlier, I love it here! There are so many conveniences that we are enjoying, but there's just something about having your own place. Please pray with us as we are considering many options right now to get us into a new home before November. The lease here runs out in October. Thanks so much! Until then, we are living it up where we are (and learning patience!).=)





Not sure Caleb was having as much fun!=)