Blog Revival -- Continued

At the end of May and first of June, we had the privilege of celebrating Madison's graduation from high school. It was, quite possibly, one of our proudest moments. Madison is a focused, talented and intelligent young lady. Those traits often made high school very frustrating but at the culminating events such as the Academic Hall of Fame, Honor's Night and the Graduation, it was these traits that made it possible for her to earn so many accolades. Scholarships, awards, certificates and kind words were all witnessed by a host of friends and family members. We were happy to have everyone share in our joy and Madison's accomplishments. We also appreciate all those who celebrated through giftgiving, cards and prayers.

As I watch Madison end the childhood/adolescent periods of her life, I am reminded of the blessing and rewards of motherhood. I am also reminded that God gives us children to care for for a lifetime...to shower us with blessings of pride...and to allow us to better understand his parental love for us...

Madison -- I thank God for every remembrance of you and your childhood.

Kim

Most Joyful News

Little did I know when I committed to a blog revival less than a week ago that I would be able to interrupt my blogging plan to share such joyous news. McKenzie & McKayla were baptized tonight!!! Such sweet, good girls. We are so proud of them. We are so blessed as parents to be able to witness this decision in their lives. I know the angels are rejoicing right along with us. God is good....ALL the time! Kim

Blog Revival-Day 5

The months of May and June were like whirlwinds. Between work, travel, school, the events associated with having a senior in high school, parties and vacations, I feel like my feet barely landed at home... On May 27, 2010, I was proud to be able to attend my sister's graduation ceremony at Harvard, even if it meant flying in on Wednesday night and out again on Friday morning in order to make it home for Madison's Honor's Night on Friday night....Short but sweet visit BUT priceless, PROUD moments I was blessed to share in. Bestowal of Master's Degree Preparing to go inside for ceremony... Proud family... Degree in hand after two long years of study and sacrafice. Fun afternoon at the Boston Commons with Mira, Misty, Mom & Dad.

Blog Revival - Day 4

Smashed somewhere in the myriad of activities going on this Spring, Randy and I checked out for a 5 day trip to Washington, DC. He was in meetings three of the days but we managed to get some sightseeing in on free days and at night. It was relaxing (for me) and fun to get away.

Here are a few scenes from our trip.

Shopping....

Subway.....

Washington Nationals game.....

It is a blessing to live in America. It is amazing to visit the capital of our great country and realize the evidence that these United States were established as "one nation under God". Historic references are easily found at every monument. How then do we continue to remove God from our governing practices? God bless America...I say that not as a statement but as a request on our nation's behalf.

Kim

Blog Revival - Day 3

Madison's Senior Prom was held April 25, 2010 at the Center for Rural Development in Somerset. The evening began nicely despite the rain. Don't they look great! Madison allowed me to play chef for the evening for her, Aleksey & some friends. I enjoyed decorating the back porch as their dining room. The girls wore robes over their gowns so as not to soil them. Maddie's dress from behind. The weather on Saturday included a TORNADO WARNING....which kept the kids at the Center until after midnight. So...on Sunday afternoon I begged Madison to put the dress back on and let me take her photo in a field near our house. The colors (I thought) were perfect for her dress! I think this one is my fave. Hope everyone is enjoying the "blog revival". May God bless you with renewal knowing that I think of you much more often than you know. Love to all who read this. Kim

Blog Revival--Day 2

Sharing Spring Break...our trip to Navarre Beach was restful and perfect. We all love the Gulf. Even sand crabs are cute in their own way.... McKenzie McKayla Maddie The Gooch Family Sea Oats at sunset.... Seaside at sunrise..... To everything there is a season....I am always most thankful for the seasons of time I get to spend by the sea. No matter how long I get to stay or how many times I'm able to go, I still long for a little longer and another time. Those of you drawn by the sea will understand. Thank you, God, for a marvelous creation. Kim

Blog Revival

For those growing up in the Bible belt, the word revival means this: a special week is set aside for nightly church attendance...a guest speaker usually comes and church members are expected to ask friends and acquaintances to join them on one or all nights. The purpose is to deepen the relationship with God and strengthen fellowship within the church family.....SO...keep this in mind for the next few days as I attempt to have a blog revival. I am going to set aside a few minutes for the next few days to begin with early Spring and update through current happenings. It will be a time of reflection and by breaking up events into separate entries, it will give each happening it's due regard. Happy Revival Reading! Around Easter, I was driving home one day and noticed a field of beautiful daffodils far off the left side of the road. My curiosity led me there only to find the field was owned by The Mayer family that we attend church with. They gave me permission to take photos there. As you can see, it was gorgeous. We also got to enjoy Mrs. Pat's gourmet carrot cake...always a special treat! One special thing about Easter will always be the fact that my whole family attends church together. Madison, Randy and I also sing in the choir. A special way to celebrate a special gift on Easter. Bless you all. Kim