12th Anniversary

We has so much fun together at the Whitewater Center.  We whitewater rafted twice. Both times we opted for the "crazy boat" and we're not disappointed.  The second time down we all spent some time getting back in the boat. We loved that and cannot wait to take the kids when they are old enough. We also enjoyed kayaking, zip lines and rock climbing. Any time spent together is amazing. 

We stayed at the Hampton Inn at Philips Place beside Southpark Mall.  We ate at Cow Fish based on multiple suggestions. It was delicious and we cannot wait to go again. The Lobster Crab Spring Rolls, Salmon Salad and Arnold Hamanegger Burger were the best. We never got around to the Burgushi (burger sushi) or milkshakes. We will be back!  The hotel was exceptional and has a wonderful breakfast. We then shopped around and finished off the trip at Cheesecake Factory. Not bad. I love my husband. He is a true gift from The Lord and every year is more awesome. 

An Awesome Dozen

Splash Pad, Farming, Snacking and Panning at Dan Nicholas Park. 

ESPN with Uncle Chris, Elisha and Zeke. 

So finally, after 4 years of asking, we made it to the National Whitewater Training Center in  Charlotte in celebration of our 12th Anniversary. We were blessed to have Brooks and Landry spending time with the Sheltons in Salisbury and having a huge time of their own. We had a bit of a rocky start with a blown tire as a result of debris on 85 from an accident that has occurred shortly before we came through.  Just one hour later we were on our way. 

It is such a blessing to know the kids are having an awesome time making memories with their cousins while we are celebrating. Molly was kind enough to give us a play by play of their fun. I must admit that there were times when we wanted to be there with them. 

Did You Say 9 1/2?

Okay, so after a few tries this winter, Brooks had an unusually scheduled birthday party in June. This Winter we had inclement weather followed by a sprained knee which kept pushing back Brooks' 9th Birthday Party. Brooks finally announced that he wanted to wait until summer and have a pool party.  This may be his only chance, right?

It turned out pretty terrific.  The boys began by breaking a sweat with some serious games of Knock Out on the basketball court. We cooled off with Gatorade and a dive contest for biggest splash, littlest splash, most creative and best style. A few sisters helped with judging. We had a tee shirt relay where the wet shirt is given to the next leg of your relay before they begin their lap. And finally, basketball games in the pool. This is a great group of boys and a huge blessing to Brooks' life. 

Instead of cake, Brooks had swamp pudding (Dirt Cake made with Oreos and pudding), Cheetos Cheese Puffs, grapes and Gatorade.  Party favors were dry packs of Gatorade.

Brooks, we love you with our whole hearts and are more grateful every day that God placed you in our lives in His perfect timing.  You are our delight and Your walk with Christ is evident as you mature in to a young man that is setting himself apart.  Hubba hubba Baby Bubba.

3 Months to Go on New Home

It is hard to imagine that 3 months will find us in a new home.  It is very exciting seeing things come together.  I am enjoying the process of putting my own taste and ideas into a reality.  Brick is being finished this week.  The kids are at Camp Winshape and I am using God's blessing of time to the fullest.  Mima joined me for the counter tops selection which was very successful.  Hardwoods, Tile, Carpet and Bath Surrounds have been chosen.  Door knobs, railings, posts and interior doors are next and then we finalize plumbing fixtures.  Wow!  A week can accomplish a lot.  So exciting!

Splash Park

We had an awesome day with Tucker and Taelynn at Backyard Paradise and the Spalsh Pad at Barber Park.  What a fun, cheap day together!  We finished it all off with Cook Out milkshakes.

Landry's 25 Fly

Landry really stepped up this year and swam Butterfly as a 6 year old with the 7&8 Year Olds.  She swam this event at a few meets alternating with 25 Breaststroke and again at Thursday City Meet.   She did great with a time of 37.56.  She had a beautiful dive and a quick stroke.  Great job!

Green Valley Takes Gold

We won the City Meet Championship and we did it in honor of our awesome coach, Scot Budde.  We are so grateful for the amazing coach he has been and for the tireless hours he has invested in our kids.  Gator Chomp!

  https://m.youtube.com/watch?feature=youtube_gdata_player&v=8IpBk4b-zkY

http://video214.com/play/axiiLce0PV83QRdkIXruEQ/s/dark

Huitsings and Grays in News & Record for 2nd Year.     http://bloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.com/news-record.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/a/af/aaf235ca-0978-11e4-a5bb-0017a43b2370/53c085d6d4c0b.preview-300.jpg