oasis

~Our trip out West~

2011-08-20T22:12:00.000-05:00

We were thankful to have the opportunity to visit Ken's folks and tour the West. Among our 5 day stay we had the privilege of touring the Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam, The old town of Oatman (woot woot), Grapevine Canyon, and Las Vegas....oh, and Black Bear which was a little restaurant with the best blackberry cobbler and milkshakes...they were awesome! All the sites were wonderful and it was nice to have some quality time with Ken's folks as well. I also decided I don't hate cats anymore...I'm still allergic, but Jazz (I called her spazzy jazzy) was just adorable. She was the cutest little kitten with the greatest personality. She definitely grew on us on our short stay there. As far as the old saying that Arizona is a great place to live because it's a dry heat...well, yes it is, but heat is heat to me, dry or not. The end:)

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We brought the clouds with us!

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Well, go figure...Arizona is known for heat and beautiful blue skies almost year round (with no clouds), but I suppose God does have a sense of humor because the clouds followed us to Arizona all the way from the North East...geez.

Lake Mead

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The Hoover Dam

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Hiking Grapevine Canyon

2011-08-20T21:28:00.001-05:00

Boy was this another hot day in Arizona...Ken's mom took us to this hiking trail and I will say it's a little different from the ones we hike here at home. It was the type of hike where you had to create your own path...lots of climbing too. Caleb and Ken are in 2 of the pics below but you can't see them...they're tiny!

2011-08-20T21:23:00.000-05:00

~The Grand Canyon~

2011-08-20T21:12:00.000-05:00

The Grand Canyon was absolutely beautiful. Words truly can't describe its beauty. I will just say you have to see it in person to really appreciate it and all its fullness.

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Touring Old Route 66

2011-08-20T20:52:00.002-05:00

The old historic town of Oatman, Arizona...a.k.a Jackass Junction

Gotta love those old west gun shows:)

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Touring Las Vegas

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The Venetian inside and out...absolutely beautiful!

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The Bellagio Water Show

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2011-07-31T15:02:00.000-05:00

Our family had the privilege of enjoying another beach vacation at our favorite family vacation spot--Surfiside Beach! As always, we enjoyed our time together as a family. We decided to spend as much time on the beach as possible this year, so we avoided many inland activities. We have been going to this particular condo for years now and amazingly see familiar faces each year. The boys have made friends there and connect often through facebook...ah..the beauty of technology that we didn't have as youth. The phrase "Wow, it's a small world" was something that came to mind for Ken and I as we were walking along the beach one evening when a couple stopped us and asked if Ken was a pastor. We both looked at each other and wondered.."what in the world?"....this couple whom we did not remember, attended a church where Ken youth pastored 8 years ago when we moved here and recognized our faces. This couple only attended that church a couple times, but remembered who we were...amazing! So, yes..it's a small world indeed! To top that off, some girls that Caleb has befriended over the last year or so (they go to the same condo unit as us each year) have some Weatherbee roots in their ancestory. I got talking to their mom and grandfather and found out that we share common ancestors with the Weatherbee name. Anyways, it was an interesting trip to say the least. We truly enjoyed our time away and look forward to making more memories such as these!

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The Dragster!!!!

2011-06-17T13:58:00.002-05:00

Jacob and Amanda went with some friends to Cedarpoint and rode the all famous "Dragster." The ride goes 420' up in the air at a speed of 120 mph in 4 seconds. Once you reach the top you drop at a 90 degree angle vertical spiral. It's a 30 second ride, but I'm sure that's long enough:)The first pic has 2 captions of them..the one on the left is going up (see their cheeks:), and the one on the right is them coming down. Caleb and Jacob got to ride this together the last time they went and both loved it. For me, I'll stick to the Disney World tea cups:)

~Jacob & Amanda

2011-05-22T12:24:00.000-05:00

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Amanda, Jacob's girlfriend, is a senior this year and these are some pics of her and Jacob getting ready to head to her senior prom. They looked so nice! I was glad that we finally had a great day to take pics, as it seems every time they've had dances the weather is always drizzly. It's a tradition to go to prom and head to cedarpoint the day after to have some fun on the coasters. Amanda will be starting college this fall here at one of the major universities (we have a ton here!). She and Jacob have similiar interests and even though they won't be at the same college, they'll still be able to study together:) We'll see how that goes...ha ha!!

~Mother's Day 2011~

2011-05-08T15:12:00.000-05:00

I was blessed to celebrate one more Mother's Day with my boys and Ken. With each year brings new memories and times to reflect on memories of the past. I'm quickly seeing and feeling how fast my kids are growing up and becoming more independent, and solidifying their personalities....it's a little bittersweet. Life would not be the same without them! When things get tough...and they do at times...I'm quickly reminded of how blessed I am to have the best kids and husband a woman could ask for. Love them!

Sign of Spring:)

2011-04-16T14:11:00.001-05:00

This week I woke up to find 2 ducks sitting in my front yard. We do not live near any body of water and are right in the middle of a neighborhood. In the 8 years we've been here this has never happened. It was a sweet surprise, so Seth decided to feed the little duckies some bread. I'm assuming they're migrating back..not sure, but I will take it as a sign of spring anyways:)

Basketball season!

2011-04-16T14:09:00.001-05:00

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Here's some pics of Seth's basketball season. He had a great season and loved Ken and Darryl coaching the team this year. Although basketball is officially over Seth is starting to gear up for baseball. Ken decided to be an assistant coach this year for baseball since his teaching schedule permits him the time to do so. I'm waiting for true baseball weather to get here though. It's getting better, but not enough to wear shorts, so there's still room for improvement. We're looking forward to another great season. Go Dodgers!

Our 20th!

2011-01-05T21:35:00.001-05:00

Ken and I celebrated our 20th anniversary this week. We tried to reflect on memories that have stood out to us the most (good ones that is:). We both concurred that the birth of our sons was definitely our most memorable moments. We honestly can't imagine what our lives would have been like without our boys. Having children has done so much for us as individuals. It has taught us to think of others above ourselves, to sacrifice our wants for the needs of others, to cherish the uniqueness of every individual, to not take life for granted, and probably the most significant, to love unconditionally! I won't say the last 20 years hasn't had its challenges, but it has been those challenges and experiences that have molded us into who we are. My prayer is that God continues to shape and mold us into who He created us to be to the fullest. For now, I thank God for blessing me with a wonderful husband, 3 amazing boys, and all our family & friends.

~Then & Now~

~It's Christmas Time~

2010-12-13T14:59:00.000-05:00

Well, it officially feels like Christmas now! The tree is up, house decorated, my balsam fir candle is burning, it's snowing outside, there are Christmas presents to wrap, and cookies and candy are baked! The only thing that is missing is our extended families:( We live so far away from everyone, so that makes this time of year a little tough. I'm glad I still have my boys. I know what time I do have is short though as they are growing up way too fast!! I hope that we all live close when they have their own families (I know wishful thinking at its best, but a girl can dream, can't she:). In the meantime, I pray that God will continue to keep me cognitive of what I do have and not what I do not have (sometimes my weakness, I'll admit). It's times like these that I reflect over times that have passed; laughing, crying, and remembering. Everyday is a new day, and with every day comes new memories, some good and some bad, but thankfully God loves me and will see me through each of those days. His love for his creation is immeasurable!

Winter Blizzard!

2010-12-13T14:44:00.000-05:00

The snow has come earlier this year than expected. The boys (and Ken) received their first snow day of the school year today. Sadly, they only get 3 days per year now, and we are only in the beginning of the winter season. The worst of the snow is typically between January-March time frame. We have made the most of it though: shopping, baking, hot cocoa, and wrapping Christmas presents:) I love this time of year! I'm reminded of God's many blessings in my life. I'm also reminded of those who are away from their families this season as they are fighting for our freedom. It's so easy to forget in our day to day lives, but these men and women have and continue to sacrifice in many ways. I'm glad we have the freedom to celebrate Christmas and share God's love with others. What a blessing!

Seth's Christmas Program at school!

2010-12-10T12:45:00.000-05:00

This year Seth had the opportunity to be in the school Christmas program. He had a great time assisting in various capacities to help the music director prepare for the big day! Seth has always loved an audience and it doesn't matter if he is on stage or on the field, the excitement is all the same. We enjoyed watching him utilize his gifts of singing and entertainment. Seth, we are so proud of your hard work and commitment!

Jacob's new car!

2010-12-03T23:17:00.000-05:00

Jacob bought his first car this week! Yeah!! We are so proud of how he saved for this moment. We traded our van in to help him with the down payment. It was hard to get rid of the van (well, hard for me anyways) as it's been with the family since Seth was born. It was a 1996 Dodge Caravan with 125,000 miles on it, an air conditioner that didn't work, a horn that didn't work, and who knows what else, but it was my baby:) Oh well, we were glad to help him and it will be good for him to get used to having some bills. I have my car back now too...yahoo! Jacob had been driving my car before he got his own (basically for the last year) and I've been driving the van that nobody else wants to drive. Jacob did good at shopping around not taking the first thing that came along. Ken helped him as well. His car only has around 14,000 miles on it so it should get him through college. Overall, I think he did a great job!!

2007 Pontiac G5

Good Times with Family!

2010-11-29T17:03:00.000-05:00

We had the privilege of going to my sister's for Thanksgiving this year. Bobby, my brother, and his family were also able to make it. It's always a treat when we can all be together. We missed having Jacob (poor thing had to work), dad and Barb there (maybe next time:). My uncle Jim and uncle Mike and his wife Barb were also able to spend the day with us. Shelley was able to get a gym reserved for us, so we spent most of the day playing and eating! Almost all the adults got in on the action....and yes, we felt it the next day:) We had such a great time and look forward to many more! I have so many memories of being a kid in North Carolina, so it will always hold a special place in my heart.

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Spookin'

2010-10-31T18:09:00.000-05:00

Jacob and Caleb decided to be the city villains on Halloween night this year. They borrowed a friend's costumes and spent the night spooking everyone. They tried to get me and a friend of mine when we were walking the kids around, but thankfully I was prepared. And of all things we were passing a graveyard when they decided to come out and do their thing. I'm glad they made it back home in one piece:)

Trick or Treat:)

2010-10-29T18:24:00.001-05:00

The boys have all had a blast preparing for their Halloween parties this week. Seth had his at school this week and the whole school paraded around the block while all the parents watched and took pictures. He decided to be a punk rocker. He and his class had a great time! I couldn't resist getting a pic of that adorable dog all dressed up....what a cutie! Caleb is on student council and was double dared to be a baby girl. It's amazing what boys will do when they are challenged:) He actually wore some baggy PJ's of mine. I tried to get him to let me write on his bonnet "I love my mommy", but I think that was pushing it..:).. Jacob and Amanda were all dressed up as Scarecrow and Dorothy for a party her dad's family was hosting. Jacob and I had fun shopping for his costume and putting it together. He makes a great Scarecrow! Halloween is officially tomorrow here in our city so Seth is all geared up to meet with some of his best friends and go trick or treating. The whole city gets into like I've never seen before. Fun times!!

2010-10-29T18:05:00.000-05:00

Seth's 11th B-day:)

2010-10-21T09:41:00.001-05:00

Yes, Seth turned 11!! I can't believe my baby is coming up on his teen years. Geez....this is just one of the many things that stinks about (me) getting older! Seth did enjoy his day and he received some new baseball gear for the next season, cashola, movies, and video games (of course;). The boys love to push my buttons when I take pictures. It took forever to get one of them looking at the camera and smiling altogether. They get it honestly and I'll just let you figure out where:) We had some great laughs anyways.

Seth also found out this week that his teachers are recommending him for the gifted program at our school. It's called Project Excel. He will have to take a series of tests, but the teachers have been observing him and don't want to wait until January (the next testing period) to assess him. He's so excited about it! He has exceeded my expectations in adjusting to his new school environment.

Soapbox time:)....Homeschoolers get so stereotyped in our country as many think they don't receive the social interaction they need. I strongly disagree and believe it totally depends on the parents and how they choose to homeschool. I tell people this...."Just because a child is homeschooled doesn't mean they will struggle or not adapt well in social settings, and likewise, just because a child attends a school doesn't mean they'll adjust and succeed socially." There are many students at school who struggle socially, so that is evident that school isn't a "fix all" to the success of children adjusting socially. I do think it helps students, but it isn't the only component. I suppose that's one thing about stereotyping groups that people need to remember... get the facts!! Many people fall prey to believing what they hear and not researching, etc. I have learned the hard way this is detrimental.

Okay, time to get off my soapbox:)

~Jacob & Amanda

2010-10-09T18:38:00.000-05:00

Here are some pics of Jacob and Amanda as they set out for Amanda's Homecoming dance. She's a senior in high school, so it looks like Jacob isn't done going to high school dances:) Jacob is still working as much as he can and deep in the studies at college. He seems to have a routine down now. I can't believe he's almost the age I was when I got married. It makes me cry thinking about it. It seems like yesterday that my mom and dad told me the same things I'm telling him. Life is truly short, so it's times like these that we must make the most of it!!

Caleb's Homecoming!

2010-10-06T17:55:00.000-05:00

Boy, things have been quite busy around here, so I'm a little behind on blogging. I made sure to get a couple pics of Caleb and his friends as they set out for homecoming at the high school. I told Caleb sometimes dances are more fun when you just go as a group of friends. He had a great time and danced the night away...:) I finally got him to show me some of his moves and I was quite impressed. Nowadays, you can just google and learn the latest dances on video. I still can't believe this is his freshmen year. He has become very active in a variety of activities at school. He has really taken to Student Council and commits to several hours a week coordinating several events for the school. We are so proud of his accomplishments and hope his high school experience doesn't fly by too fast!!

Seth's First Day of School:)

2010-08-25T10:48:00.003-05:00

Well, the time has finally come and Seth is officially done homeschooling! He started his first day of 5th grade this week and I can't tell you how nervous I was for him. I was the same way with Jacob and Caleb, but with Seth even more so. He has been anticipating this week for some time now and has been all excited. At the end of the day I asked him how everything went and he said it was "kind of boring." He was disappointed that they didn't do any school work. Can you believe that?! That doesn't sound like the Seth I homeschooled:) He was always ready to be done with work. I'm so happy that he's excited and geared up for this new experience. Our schools have Smart Boards, so that will really make learning more fun and interesting. Tonight is Open House and I get to meet his teachers. He actually has several and the 5th graders have to change classes and get a locker! This will definitely prep him for middle school next year. It's funny...the teacher was asking the class if they knew what region our state was in and nobody was able to answer, so Seth told me he raised his hand and said "Midwest." The teacher said, "Great, Seth!" It is little things like that that will boost his confidence with all the new changes. Needless to say, his first day went well and I can't wait to hear more stories:)

I have the house to myself now (I've already gotten so much done already), but will be starting back to school next week...ugh! I love to learn, but I like hands on learning much better. I will be taking on 16 hours this semester. Pray for me!! I'll need it:)

Oh, and Ken is officially a teacher now! His students come today. He's teaching 11th graders at an alternative school. Basically, a school that deals with students the public schools can't handle anymore. He loves it! Not only does he get to use his gift of teaching, but is able to have the time to balance the rest of his life as well. He pastors part-time as well. This teaching job will feed into his ministry and his ministry into his teaching job. It's great!!

Caleb started high school this week! He is on Student Council and they are already planning the first school dance. It won't be long and basketball will be here as well. He has quite a load this year. He's taking Geometry, Spanish, Enriched Language Arts, Enriched Physical Science, Enriched History, Student Council, and Phys.Ed. this semester. He'll be a busy guy for sure!!

Jacob started college! He's taking classes to pursue a Physical Therapy Degree. He completed all his prerequisite hours and will be going full-time, not to mention working part-time. His commute is only 25 min., so he'll be staying at home for now. I told him to get used to not having many grades per class. College life is based on tests, papers, and more tests! You really have to hit it hard with the studies, because you don't get homework grades, notebook grades, and so forth. I know he can do anything he sets his mind to!!

Cedar Point!!

2010-08-10T15:41:00.000-05:00

Ken took Jacob on a trip to Cedar Point for one of his Father/Son graduation gifts. They had a blast riding the coasters all day. On top of that they got to see Lebron James walking 4 feet from them! Although Lebron is somewhat of an outcast right now in our area, it was still pretty cool to see him in person. Jacob has seen him at basketball games in the past, but never that close. Here's a pic of one of their favorite rides...."The Millennium".......It's pretty obvious they posed for the picture while they were riding. Needless, to say they enjoyed their time together doing what boys love to do....PLAY!:)

~2010 Beach Vacation

2010-07-27T16:50:00.002-05:00

As usual, we enjoyed our retreat to the beach. It is something we look forward to every year, God willing of course. This year was special as Ken and I have been thinking it may be one of our last ones with Jacob. Now that he's entering college and working times have changed. We are hoping as long as he's living at home that he'll find a way to make our family vacations, but we know it's one of those things that time will tell.

This year we did what we typically do every year. We figured we know what we like and we're sticking to it:) The weather was hot, breezy (most days), and very sunny! I have learned to appreciate the sun in a new way now that I live in the North. We all had a great time as a family and hope our kids will always remember these special times. I also hope they keep the tradition going when they have their own families. It would be awesome to gather all their families together and for Ken and I to enjoy our grandkids (although, not any time soon of course:)

We had the privilege of also celebrating Caleb's birthday at the beach. I made him the meal of his choice and baked him a cake. We also let him pick a restaurant of his choice that week to eat at, and got to play some putt-putt and eat some homemade ice cream at one of our favorite parlors. He keeps reminding me that next year he gets to start learning how to drive. Yikes! I'm still getting over Jacob...my boys are growing up way too fast!

Unlike last year, there were hardly any jellyfish. As a matter of fact, the only 2 I saw were dead and washed up on the beach. Last year was crazy as there were so many jellyfish and stingrays! The boys really enjoyed getting to ride the waves jellyfish free!

Well, what can I say.... We love the beach and look forward to making many more memories there if possible. I have said it before,... it is truly our home away from home!!!

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My handsome boys!!

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Goofy guys:)

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Wave action!!!

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Here's Jacob inside the wave...cool!

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One evening we all enjoyed watching this guy wind boarding. Truly amazing!

Now you see me.....

Now you don't!

Chicken Fight:)

2010-07-27T15:39:00.000-05:00

Random pics...

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Frisbee Fun:)

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Beach and long hair don't go hand in hand:)

Outings...

2010-07-27T14:59:00.000-05:00

We also love to hit the souvenir shops and dine out for dinner and ice cream a few times each time we visit the beach. As you can see if you stay connected to our blog, this never gets old to us:) These are just a few of our hot spots.

Boys who don't like rules...

2010-07-27T14:46:00.005-05:00

Okay, I suppose we all have a little rebellious spirit in us, right?

RULE: No girlfriends until you're 16:)

Banana Boat!!

2010-07-27T14:39:00.000-05:00

Jacob, Caleb, and Seth rode the banana boat ride again this year. Seth wasn't as scared of sharks this year:) They were all wanting to get tipped out in the ocean (the drivers do this if you want), but there was a lady with her teenage girl and husband that rode with them that was whining saying she didn't want to get wet. We were all like..."You are getting on a ride that takes you out in the ocean and you don't want to get wet?"....Oh, and for those of you thinking was she blonde, the answer is NO! The driver didn't really know how to respond to her statement, but his eyes said it for him...lol! Fortunately for her sake, the current was too strong to tip that day or the driver would have done it anyways. Now, what a sight that would have been:)

Putt-putt fun!

2010-07-27T14:29:00.000-05:00

We got to hit a few putt-putt places at the beach...something we try and do every year. We like making bets when we play. Ken's dad got us started with that one way back when Ken and I met. There is something about competing against Ken that brings out an EXTREME competitive spirit in me. I don't care if I lose as long as it's not against him....:)

Good times with family:)

2010-07-27T14:19:00.001-05:00

Shelley and the gang were staying at the beach the first week we were there and made a trip over to spend the day with us. Uncle Jim got to come as well. He used to life guard at some of these beaches back in the day:) We had a great time just hangin' out and enjoying one another's company. Living so far away like we do, it's nice to take advantage of these little opportunities.

Congrats, Red Sox!!

2010-07-27T13:42:00.000-05:00

Before we left for vacation, Seth's team played the final championship game and won! They were not only undefeated throughout the season, but they won the finals as well. He was so excited to bring home 2 trophies and the win. The coach got the whole team t-shirts that had all the names of the team on the back as well as "UNDEFEATED" on the front for our division. Now it looks like we'll have to get geared for fall ball which is starting mid-August. The coach wants to keep the boys playing as well as expose them to a division that will be even more competitive. I'm sure I'll have updates to follow once that gets going. Stay tuned:)

Ken Graduates

2010-07-05T14:42:00.003-05:00

Ken finished his final classes and will receive his M.Ed in time for him to begin teaching this fall. He already has a job at the school where he was working this past year and is excited to begin, but not before enjoying his first summer vacation in over 25 years:)

Seth's Baseball Season

2010-07-02T07:12:00.011-05:00

Here is the final standings for Seth's baseball. They begin the playoffs Tuesday and if they continue the finals will be Saturday. We were supposed to leave for the beach on Friday, and arrive Saturday, but Seth really wants to be at the final game if they make it that far so we have bumped the beach a few days. I guess as the boys get older this type of thing will happen more frequently.

Team-----------Won-----Lost----Pct-----RF-------RA
Red Sox---------17-------0-------1.000---267------41
Giants-----------14-------4-------.778-----229------126
Indians----------11-------6-------.647-----207-----171
Diamondbacks---8------9-------.471-----220------243
Reds---------------5------10------.344-----165------235
Pirates------------5------12-------.294-----161-------235
Blue Jays---------5------12------.294------159------235
Nationals---------2------14------.147----128-------250

GO RED SOX!!!!!!!!!

Jacob's Grad Party!!

2010-06-28T09:57:00.000-05:00

Well, we finally made it to Jacob's grad party this weekend. I had some awesome helpers with this and could not have pulled it off without them. The day went well with no glitches...yeah! I told Ken that I love going to parties, but not necessarily hosting them:) It's our last little gesture of congratulating Jacob on all his accomplishments thus far. Now, it's time to register...yikes! Yes, Jacob officially got his mandated forms to become an official registered voter, etc. Time to get adult minded about life:) That's such a hard transition, but I know God will guide Jacob 100% of the way. And, of course Ken and I will be right there until he's ready to fly to coop:) This summer he's working full-time at his job and will have to put in a mandatory 50 hours of shadowing physical therapists for his upcoming classes this fall. He'll be a busy guy, but it will be good for him. Ken and I couldn't be more proud!

Akron Aeros Game!

2010-06-28T09:43:00.000-05:00

Every year the baseball association in our area provides an opportunity for our baseball leagues to walk around the Akron Aeros field before game time. This year our team in particular raised the most money by selling the most tickets, so Seth's Red Sox team was privileged to warm-up on the field with the minor league team and stand on the field during the National Anthem. It's amazing observing these little guys watching in awe at these minor leagers. They had a blast and I'm sure it was a night they'll never forget!

~Beautiful Weekend

2010-06-20T18:47:00.002-05:00

Ken had the privilege of marrying one of my very dear friend's daughter and fiance this weekend. They decided to do it outdoors and believe it or not the weather turned out super! It was actually quite hot, but we were thankful it didn't rain. We have known Athena since she was a teenager, so this was a very special day. Ken did a great job and the ceremony was so nice. Ken and I couldn't help but reflect on our "close to 20 years" of marriage. Wow! That doesn't even seem possible. Really...am I that old? Well, it is what it is, but I am thankful to be with my one and only and am thankful for our many years together and look forward to many more.

Athena & Bob Brown

~Good Times with Family

2010-06-11T08:40:00.002-05:00

My brother, Bobby and his wife, Jennifer, and kids, Matthew and Makensie finally got the chance to see our part of the country this week. We were so happy they got to visit and spend some time with us. This week was perfect for hiking so we took them to a couple trails we love. Our first trail had amazing landscaping! There was an animal and nature center at this particular Metro Park and one of the workers took a snake out to show the kids and she taught us all how to identify poisonous versus non-poisonous snakes. I hate snakes, but this one wasn't too bad. Makensie was a little apprehensive but came around and decided to pet the snake. They also got to see the bee exhibit and were able to bird watch and see all the different birds in our area. After walking through the nature center, we hiked on one of the trails and just as I was telling them we probably wouldn't see a deer, low and behold we got to see one! That is always a treat. I have to say that I'm not a fan of this area in the winter, but this time of year is so nice and I love the hiking trails! It's such a peaceful retreat from the day-to-day busyness of life. Jacob, Caleb, and Seth enjoyed getting to visit with their cousins as we don't get to see them often. I just wish we lived closer sometimes, because it's always so hard to watch family drive away knowing it will be awhile before we see them again. We had a great time nonetheless and are grateful for the memories made this week.

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2010-06-11T08:18:00.000-05:00

I decided to take Bobby, Jennifer, Matthew and Makensie for a stroll down to our quaint downtown area. It was a beautiful day to enjoy the outdoors. After, we all went hiking again to a very popular hiking trail that had carvings of some history when the indians settled in this area along with some amazing rock formations. At the end of this trail they all got to see an awesome overlook view that was quite breathtaking. We ended our day watching Seth at his baseball game and a trip to Handels icecream shop. Fun times!!

Our Graduate:)

2010-06-04T08:12:00.004-05:00

What a great week this has been...Bittersweet to say the least. The graduation ceremony was interesting to put it nicely. It was at an outdoor music center and all day it looked like it could rain and it wasn't until we got there that the heavens came down, and hard at that! Those poor graduates and visitors had to walk a ways to get to the pavilion and got soaked...ugh! The music center was beautiful though and by the time we walked under the pavilion the rain stopped..go figure! It was an emotional sight seeing Jacob walk up and receive his Honors Diploma. I know God has many great things in store for him and we look forward to seeing him grow and mature into adulthood. We love you and have never been more proud of you, Jacob!

Receiving his diploma!

Waiting in the processional line:) Anxious, Anxious!

Before ceremony jitters:)

Hats off!!!

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Congrats, Caleb!!

2010-06-04T07:38:00.002-05:00

We had the opportunity to see Caleb receive several awards at his school's awards ceremony such as high honor roll, school spelling bee 1st place winner, district spelling bee finalist, regional spelling bee finalist and "Outstanding Male of 2010." The Outstanding Male award required him to be not only nominated, but write an essay and conduct an interview with the principal as well as other staff who were to judge on a variety of qualities, such as academic achievement, character, community service, and so on. We are so proud of him!! What a great week of celebrations!!

Celebration!

2010-06-04T07:30:00.002-05:00

We had a little celebration dinner for Jacob before Dad and Barb left for home. Jacob loves DQ's cookie dough ice cream cake so Jacob was treated to that thanks to Barb and Dad and a carrot cake made by Amanda (his girlfriend). We hung out and just enjoyed each other's company for the day. Good times and great memories!!

~A Nice Day

2010-06-04T07:10:00.000-05:00

Seth and I decided to take Dad and Barb to a nice Metro Park in our area. The landscaping is absolutely beautiful and well kept. It was a nice pleasant day to be outdoors and they got to see a little bit of this part of the country. On the way home I tried exposing them to some middle eastern foods such as hummus, taboule, stuffed grape leaves and baklava. It was a fun and relaxing day!

Happy Memorial Day!!

2010-05-31T14:54:00.000-05:00

The morning was just perfect for the annual Memorial Day parade. Seth got to walk again this year representing his baseball team. Some from our church set a table up down at the parade and got to hand out beads, candy, and water to folks along the strip. It's one way we like to show God's love in practical ways with no strings attached.

The older I get the more I love and respect our veterans and those who serve(d) our country. A special "THANK YOU" to all who have and continue to serve on behalf of all of us. Sadly, I find myself seeing more Americans turning against each other because of different belief systems, whether religious, political, etc. etc., yet that is one of the freedoms that many have fought for. We let our differences divide us instead of unite us. I love the quote from a movie we saw this week which stated, "If I can't change when circumstances demand it, how can I expect others to change." How profound! We love to bash, gossip, put down, and compare human beings expecting to see the change we expect, but how often do we initiate that change in our own lives. As Americans, we have a responsibility to be that change. The change will come from the bottom up! Basically, change starts with ourselves and is done with respect and integrity. God Bless America!

2010-05-31T14:20:00.000-05:00

Senior Awards

2010-05-20T11:19:00.001-05:00

Last night and this morning we had the privilege of seeing Jacob receive several awards for his outstanding academic performance throughout his freshman-senior year. To name a few, he received his 4th Rotary Scholar Award, National Honor Society, Award of Merit for meeting requirements for college preparatory related criteria, attendance, achievement, citizenship, and participation, as well as community-related activities. At the senior recognition service they had them wear their cap and gown and sadly the room was dark and my pics didn't come out too great, but we still have graduation coming up in 2 weeks so I'll definitely get some good ones then:) My kids have continued to amaze me in so many ways. I feel so privileged to be their mother and am thankful to God for blessing me with such wonderful boys. Jacob, we love you and are so very proud of YOU!

~Jacob's Senior Prom

2010-05-15T20:24:00.000-05:00

Here Jacob and Amanda are all dressed and ready for Jacob's senior prom. Yes, his last one! He has one week of school left and a couple weeks until graduation. I honestly can't believe this time has come...and all too fast! We are so proud of him and all he has accomplished thus far. I know this can be a strange, yet exciting time in a young person's life. Our prayer is that Jacob will take one day at a time knowing God has his best interest at heart. As for me, time to break out the tissues and old videos, pictures, etc. and reflect upon all the memories that have led up to this moment in time...

A Special Day...

2010-05-10T16:34:00.000-05:00

We had the privilege of visiting with Ken's parents over Mother's Day weekend. They are on their way to Arizona for good this time. We will miss their frequent trips to our home, but wish them all the best.

The boys got together and bought this beautiful hanging basket for me. They know I love this time of year as I get to garden and plant flowers around our home. If you're wondering what those little yellow things are in the bag, they are banana runts:) Any time we have movie night at our house I have to get a box of runts to nibble on. They pick on me because I'm always digging out the banana runts (my favorites:)...I thought it was sweet of my boys to pick up on those little things about me. They know me well:)

Tea Time:)

2010-05-10T16:23:00.001-05:00

I officially went to my first "tea" over my birthday weekend with some friends. It was so girly and fun:) I realized that I haven't done anything girly in a long time so it was definitely a treat. To my surprise they pampered me with flowers and gifts. It was a very sweet and unexpected surprise. I look forward to doing it again!

A trip to the Cleveland Metro Zoo!!

2010-04-05T15:25:00.000-05:00

Since the weather has been absolutely gorgeous, we decided to enjoy the boys last day off from school and take a trip to the zoo. We had such a great time and realized it has been some time since we have had a chance to get away with our family especially now that Jacob works. He did have to leave the zoo a little early but it was nice for us all to enjoy most of the day together. This was our first trip to this zoo and it had an awesome rainforest! We missed the tigers and elephants as the zoo is preparing a new area for these animals. That was somewhat of a bummer as those are some of our favorites, but the rainforest made up for it. I was actually able to get a pic of the bats in the dark with my flash. I love the zoo so much and it gives me just a tiny peek of the world beyond America. More than that it allows me to soak in God's beauty of creation and how unique He makes each and everyone. Truly amazing!!

2010-04-05T15:12:00.000-05:00