Risley Family Blog

Disney!!

2010-10-27T08:32:00.001-04:00

Many thanks to Mema and Poppy for a wonderful week at Disney! The weather was fantastic, the condo was over the top amazing (we are rotten!) and the time with you was priceless! Fun rides, fun times! What a memorable week! Thank you!! And a very special thanks to my Mom and Dad and sisters who took such good care of Lainey so we could have a trip with the big kids!

Andy, Desha, Mema and Poppy in front of the castle at Magic Kingdom

Desha and Andy with Stitch!

This was Desha's favorite character!

Poppy, Desh, Steve and Andy getting ready to go on a roller coaster

Steve, Andy, Poppy and some man with no emotion (he must have ridden Rockin' Rollarcoaster a million times). Our guys faces are priceless!

Thank you Mema and Poppy!!

My New Hobby

2010-10-27T08:17:00.000-04:00

After our fabulous trip to Disney and having Desha's face painted, I decided I wanted to learn how... here are a few of my first attempts at face painting some my kids and some of the neighborhood kids.

Lainey as a butterfly

Andy's friend Caleb as a skeleton

Desha Vampire

Mark with a bat

Desha as a T-Rex (or monster!) and Kenzie as a Cat

More Tarryall

2010-07-14T16:21:00.004-04:00

Couldn't resist- love this picture of mine and Steve's boots- we were sitting on top of Lizard Rock, enjoying the view.

Top of Lizard Rock.

Andy and Desha on the first day of riding just after they got on their horses (Andy on Skipper and Desha on Jed). Happy, happy kids!

Mandy holding Stetler.

Lined up ready to ride

(Mema, me, Desha, Zoe, Zack, Mandy)

Tarryall 2010

2010-07-14T16:10:00.003-04:00

We are back from the ranch (Tarryall River Ranch, Lake George, CO) and had a blast! Thank you Mema and Poppy for taking all of us! It was fun to be back again enjoying ranch life (well as a guest)- 3 delicious meals cooked for you each day, horse ready for you to ride twice a day, room cleaned for you, lots of fresh air and dancing and family fun! You can't beat that- but man it's hard to come home!

Steve and I on the ride up to Lizard Rock. Steve's riding Bert again this year and I am riding Winchester. Great horses and Lizard Rock was my favorite ride.

Our little family of 5 on the first night. Risley Roundup t-shirts and bandanas are compliments of Mema and Poppy.

The whole gang!

Steve and I in our "fancy" clothes before our "fancy dinner" (adults only) Friday night.

The adults before fancy dinner.

Greensboro

2010-04-05T11:54:00.003-04:00

Sissy was home two weeks to visit, so we had a great time getting to see her and the rest of my family. Below are some pics...

Anne and Lainey

Aunt "Beph" (Beth) giving Lainey a manicure

Sissy and I playing putt putt at Celebration Station!

Sissy, Jonah, Andy, Kate and Desha

Easter

2010-04-05T11:42:00.003-04:00

Wild and Crazy as ever!!

2010-03-07T19:08:00.002-05:00

I hate that I haven't posted recently, lots of fun things going on. Here are some pics of the kids...

Andy and Desha woke up early the morning we had snow!

They were very excited!

The family in front of the house on the big snow day!

Desha with some of her Halo Hoops Basketball team mates

and her coaches (Bob Padula and Carey Sasser).

Lainey with pig tail braids (she loves her pig tails).

Desha and Lainey playing in their pjs!

Some Favorite Christmas Pictures

2010-01-05T18:08:00.002-05:00

Christmas was lots and lots of fun and below are some of my favorite pictures...

Andy and Desha Christmas morning checking out the plate of cookies and carrots they left for Santa and the reindeer.

Steve took this pic of Lainey and Desha walking back to the car after a Christmas Eve brunch we went to. They were dressed alike (as you can see) and so sweet.

This is my new favorite pic of Lainey, big girl bow and all!

The kids with Santa down at Carolina Beach.

This captures Lainey's true personality...she's a ham!

Andy, Jonah, Lainey, Desha & Kate

This was taken at Beth and Stockton's church on the Sunday after Christmas.

Kate and another young man gave the sermon on Sunday- she did a fantastic job!

Life at our house...

2009-12-04T07:26:00.002-05:00

If you wonder why I haven't posted in so long, take a look below to get a sense of what life is like around our house. Playing defense all day long, that's my new job! Lots of activity and lots of fun! In case I don't post until after Christmas- Merry Christmas!!

Hey, at least Desha is helping, right?

Yes, she is sitting on the kitchen table, opening to box of ornaments. I mean what else is a mother to do? When it's your first- a strict time out is in order. When it is your second- a "get down" seems sufficient. When it's your third- take a picture!

Happy Birthday Desha!

2009-11-17T06:07:00.004-05:00

Happy birthday big sister! 6 YEARS OLD TODAY! That is very, very hard to believe! Look how much you have grown! What a fun day we have planned for you today. We love you so much!!

Desha's First Inquiry

2009-10-18T20:41:00.002-04:00

At Desha and Andy's school the kids learn by the inquiry method - the teachers pick a topic and the kids consider all of the questions they could ask about that topic and then they go in search of the answers. It's always fun to go to school at the end of the 9 weeks and see the kids present their inquiry findings. This was Desha's first time and her class did an inquiry on the 5 senses. Below are pics from the class presentation.

Parents and other teachers and students at school coming to see all the kid's work. The big grey thing hanging from the ceiling is the brain and each yellow streamer is going to a different part of the room that discusses one of the 5 senses...yes really this is kindergarden.

Desha proudly ready to tell any passerby that they learned that they need light to see and different ways we get light.

A budding musician

2009-10-18T20:34:00.002-04:00

We feel so fortunate to have my grandmother's (Nana) player piano here at our house to enjoy. All of the kids love to sit and watch it play and also try to play it, but Lainey LOVES it! She is fascinated watching the keys play and hearing the music. It puts a big smile on her face. Some moms put their kids in front of the TV to entertain them for a few minutes to get something done. Me? I put her in front of the piano! Thanks Nana!!

Spoiled Rotten

2009-10-18T20:17:00.003-04:00

If you are wondering what we've been up to since we haven't posted in ages...we've been spoiling Lainey ROTTEN! I'm not sure what has happened around here...

Ice cream cone with her big brother and big sis...

Licking the spoon making chocolate pudding...

and 2 PACIFIERS!! We've lost our minds around here!

But we are having fun! Andy and Desha have been on break from school and we've had a few weeks just enjoying a more laid back schedule, all the free things in Wilmington and lots of playtime outside!

Fun Times at the Ranch

2009-08-07T07:50:00.006-04:00

Here are some more fun times at the Ranch. Sorry they are so out of order, but for some reason the pictures load opposite of how I select them, so I gave up on trying to put them in any kind of chronological order.

Each night there was an evening activity - line dancing, barn dancing, cowboy singer, etc. The last night there was a talent show and the kids had all practiced a song together, and below is a picture of the kids performing for the rest of us.

Desha riding Willie

Andy on Hudson heading out for a ride with the other kids his age and their Wrangler. (That's our cabin behind him to the left and the barn behind him to the right). It was so great to be so close to the horses.

Steve, Kathy and Lainey in front of the Lodge.

The original 5 Risleys (Jim, Mema, Poppy, Renelle & Steve).

Thanks Mema and Poppy for this amazing trip!!

More Ranch Pics!

2009-08-07T07:23:00.003-04:00

Here are some more pictures from the Tarryall River Ranch...

Below is my favorite picture of Jim and Shannon. It's at the top of Lizard Rock- an amazing ride up the mountain through Aspen forests with beautiful flowers all around. The view at the top of Lizard Rock was spectacular! This was my favorite ride.

Steve and Andy taking turns practicing with the lasso.

Me, Renelle (Steve's sister) and Shannon (Steve's brother's wife) on top of Lizard Rock. I miss Tarryall!!!! (Like my boots?? I borrowed them from the Ranch and I got sort of attached to them... it was all I could do not to put them in my suitcase and bring them home- but Steve reminded me there wouldn't be many places I could wear them in 95 degree weather back home!!)

This is the front porch of our cabin and the corral and barn in the back ground. It was amazing to wake up every morning to the sound of the Wranglers riding out to the pasture cracking the bullwhip running 65 horses by our cabin in to the corral. Desha's favorite place was sitting right there on the fence talking to the horses.

Below are the big cousins!

Andy and Mandy on top row, Zack, Desha and Zoe on bottom row. They all had such a great time together and enjoyed lots of freedom to run and play at the ranch. We'd eat meals all together in the Lodge (behind them) and as soon as they were done eating they'd run down to play on the playground or throw horseshoes or pet the animals down in the petting zoo area. It was such a safe and healthy environment to let them run around and explore- what a treat for everyone!

The Ranch!!

2009-08-04T21:25:00.004-04:00

I guess one of the reasons it has taken me so long to actually post any pics from our trip is that we took hundreds of pictures- too many to choose from! Actually I think it's because it would be very hard to put into words how truly wonderful the trip to the Tarryall River Ranch was. It is a special, special place and being there with ALL of Steve's family was such an amazing treat.

Here's our entire clan wearing our "Risley Roundup" t-shirts and kerchiefs - it's amazing what a new t-shirt, boots & hat will do...instant cowboys!

Here's Steve, Andy and I saddled up for our first ride. Steve is on Bert, I'm on Poncho and Andy is on Hudson. We became very attached to our horses after riding them all week.

Lainey, being Lainey...too sweet!

Eric (from Norway), cousin Mandy, Andy & Carson (one of the grandkids of the family who owns the ranch)

Desha with cousin Zoe- they are two peas in a pod!

Colorado!!!

2009-08-04T21:01:00.005-04:00

Well I'm LONG overdue for an update and especially on our FANTASTIC trip to Colorado!! We had a wonderful, wonderful time and I am sure I will not do our trip justice on the blog. But here are some pics from our trip...

First we flew to Colorado Springs to spend 4th of July weekend with Nate and Kim. I know, I know, if you know Nate (and combined with Steve) you are thinking this could be dangerous. But I am happy to announce that no one was hurt...although I can't say that they didn't try! See Nate and Steve below with the sparkler portion of the fireworks display (check out Nate and Kim's blog for more details!!).

It was so great to be with Nate and Kim and Ruthie and in addition we got to see our sweet friend Ali who is living with the Stratmans this summer interning at Nate's church. I love this picture of Andy and Ali...but I do have to ask myself, at what age do I not think things like this are so cute any more??? Kind of close, huh?

Kim was such a wonderful hostess. Their house is so beautiful and comfortable and welcoming. I love this picture of Kim and Ruthie. Ruthie had us in stitches laughing, she is so funny and also so sweet - the perfect combination of her parents!!

Loved this one of Desh with Ruthie. They are too cute!

And last, but not least of course....Lainey! It was a wonderful time- THANK YOU NATE AND KIM! We love you!!

Off to School!

2009-07-21T07:35:00.002-04:00

It's hard to believe, but today is the first day of school!! Desha is starting kindergarden and Andy is starting 3rd grade! They were both so excited - not nervous at all. Desha is so ready and even told me that this morning she wanted an "egg and cheese" - which is a favorite breakfast sandwich at our house - except with Desha. She has never liked them, but she told me this morning that now that she was "BIG" she wanted an egg and cheese for breakfast! YIKES!

They were a little bummed though because we walked to the bus stop and according to a neighbor up the street the bus came 15 minutes early - so Steve is driving them to school on their first day. We'll get bus pics tomorrow!

Happy Birthday Andy!

2009-06-07T14:31:00.003-04:00

Hard to believe it, but Andy is 8! No more kids meals and no more car seat!! Andy woke up with a big smile and we've had a great day so far. Here are some pics from his special day so far...

Desha, Lainey & Andy getting ready for birthday breakfast.

Andy opening his presents as Desha looks on.

WOW, doesn't he look old!

Fun Day!

2009-06-04T14:24:00.003-04:00

Today was "Fun Day" at Andy's school and I totally forgot my camera! But my sweet friend Jen came to the rescue and took these shots that I had to share.

Tyler, Andy and DJ

Lainey (I love this picture - thanks Jen!!)

Andy doing the Limbo, with Desha following right behind!

Andy trying to persuade Lainey to join he and Desha in the Limbo line. She was so excited, watching everything intently, clapping and cheering her big brother and big sister. It was really was a FUN DAY!!

Fishing

2009-06-04T14:20:00.003-04:00

Steve and Andy went fishing with Andy's buddy Tyler and his father Tom. This flounder was their big catch for the day - unfortunately it was too small to keep so they had to throw it back. I think the boys have the "fishing bug" - so I'm guessing there will be more chances for flounder catching soon!!

Successful Fishing Trip!

2009-06-02T07:50:00.003-04:00

Steve went fishing with his brother Jim yesterday and they had a very successful trip! They went about 45 miles out and caught an 18 pound grouper, a dolphin (mahi mahi) and some snapper. Steve called us on their way back in and we met them at the dock to see the catch. The kids were pumped (I think Jim and Steve were equally as pumped)!

Desha checking out the snapper.

Desha and Daddy holding up the grouper! Can't wait to eat some of that!

Andy holding up the dolphin.

Uncle Jim with the dolphin just after it was caught - beautiful color!

Pictures from May

2009-06-02T07:34:00.004-04:00

Here are some of my favorite pics from May.

Andy and Desha out in the back yard eating watermelon. They had been playing on the Slip n Slide and were getting hungry. I'm not sure what made them decide to go sit on the bench in the back to eat their watermelon, but it was so cute how Andy had his leg propped up on the bench - like he was telling Desha some very important things (if you know Andy, you know this is the case!). And Desha just setting there listening intently.

I took this from inside the house, so it's not that clear, but it just made me smile - summer time is here!

Desha and Lainey having breakfast at the kids table on the back porch- Lainey for the first time. She is wanting so badly to do just what the big kids do, so she sat perfectly still in this little chair at the table and did not get up until Desha did.

Desha with her new kindergarden hair cut! She wanted to get her hair cut short, "just like Mommy" (which about made me cry)! She looks so cute and is so proud of her short hair.

Lainey is getting ready for our trip out to Colorado to the Dude Ranch this summer. We've had the horse in the attic for quite a while (Grommy and Grandaddy gave it to Andy when he was very young). But Lainey LOVES it and holds on so tight while she rocks back and forth like she knows what she is doing.

Mother's Day Boat Ride

2009-06-02T07:31:00.003-04:00

This was from Mother's Day when we took Lainey on the boat for the first time. We found a great sand bar north of Figure 8 and had a ball splashing in the water, searching for sand dollars and crabs and just enjoying the beautiful weather. Thanks for a great Mother's Day!

The Flounder

2009-05-26T20:29:00.003-04:00

For some reason the pictures loaded out of order - but can you guess why Andy is so happy about what he is getting ready to eat? Because it's a flounder he caught when we took the boat out this weekend. It was a spectacular day out with the family and we were excited to have Mema along with us. We didn't take the camera, so didn't get any pictures while we were out, but we did get proof of Andy's first flounder!

One happy boy!

There's nothing quite like catching a fish and getting to eat it a couple of hours later.

Steve filleting the flounder...did you know you actually get 4 fillets from flounder and not 2? You learn something new every day!

Mr. Flounder - pre filleting.

Random May photos

2009-05-15T06:38:00.002-04:00

Here are some photos from this May. Nothing terribly exciting, but just lots of time outside (which we love!)

Lainey on the bench in our backyard.

Lainey trying to be a "big" girl. This is her new thing- to climb up in the chairs at the kitchen table and try to do whatever everyone else is (or as she is here- "telling" Kenzie and Desha how to paint!). She is a hoot!

Desha with her first strawberry of the season from her garden on the play gym. We planted a vegetable garden for the first time this year in the yard, and we had extra strawberry plants so we put them in the baskets on the play gym. The kids have been very excited to check the progress each morning. We've planted strawberries, pumpkins, beans, carrots, radishes, tomatoes and broccoli (which we didn't realize it would be too hot for- we'll see what happens!).

Lainey getting ready for her first day out on the boat. She handled the lifejacket and the boat very well. We had a great Mother's Day out on the water. Found a great sand bar, beached it and put up an umbrella. We found some sand dollars and crabs and just played in the water and enjoyed God's Creation. What an amazing day!

Just too sweet not to post.

I LOVE STRAWBERRIES!!

2009-05-15T06:29:00.003-04:00

I took all three kids to Lewis Farms to pick strawberries last week. It was a warm sunny afternoon and we had Lainey in the backpack coated with sunscreen and trying to keep a hat on her, but she would have none of that! She wanted to be down on the ground picking strawberries just like her big brother and sister. So just like the mother of a 3rd child, I let her go for it (I don't think Andy ever got this dirty).

She picked 2 GIANT strawberries (they looked more like apples) and just munched and munched and munched until they were all gone. She had a blast...then she proceeded to eat a huge cup of banana ice cream - what a healthy meal : ) ! We had a great afternoon and ended up with enough strawberries to eat for days and make a strawberry pie - YUM!!

PS: A good soak in Oxyclean did get all the stains out of her shirt! Love that stuff!

My New Favorite Picture

2009-04-26T13:44:00.003-04:00

Here's my new favorite picture - we took it this morning before church. For some incredible reason we were ready early - and to add to it everyone was in a cooperative mood! So we snapped this one before Lainey could get away. This makes me happy because these are all their real smiles - no fake ones. I must have said something to make them laugh. Who knows - I'll take it!

Walking!

2009-04-24T09:15:00.005-04:00

Do you know why these two little girls are smiling? It's because the big one helped the little one learn to walk! That's right - Desha and I were playing on the floor with Lainey the other night and we were letter her take steps between us - then all of the sudden she really got into it and decided it was time to go! She would take lots of steps to her big sister and then fall and then get right back up again and take more! She was very determined and it was very exciting for Desha to be a part of. It made her so excited to see her baby sister walking.

CAKE

2009-04-15T09:00:00.003-04:00

Here's Lainey eating her birthday cake! We celebrated her birthday Easter Sunday with our families all in town. It was great to all be together and enjoy the sunshine. Lainey had a blast eating cake and the big kids had fun watching her and then later hunting Easter eggs. What a fun weekend!

Happy Birthday Lainey!!

2009-04-07T07:44:00.004-04:00

Wednesday is the big day! Happy 1st Birthday Sweet Baby Girl!!!! We cannot believe it's been a year since Lainey was born! (I'm posting now, as I feel certain I won't have a chance tomorrow- Lainey was up last night because she is cutting some big teeth, so she is sleeping in a bit this morning).

This is her new favorite place to play (as you can see, it's not in the gated corral next to her that is set up just for her! She loves to crawl into this basket full of toys and play. She's babbling a lot these days, giving lots of hugs and kisses, taking a few steps, but not in a hurry to walk. She LOVES her big brother and big sister and can't wait to play with them. And by the way, she is spoiled rotten by us all!

All that to say, we are so grateful for this blessed addition to our family. She has brought lots of joy, lots of fun and a great sense of thankfulness to our lives. Thank you to all of our friends and family for your love, support and prayers that have helped us make our way through this first year of her life!

Lainey 11 months old!

2009-03-15T14:56:00.003-04:00

These pictures are of Lainey at 11 months old. Hard to believe she will turn one in April! This year has gone by so quickly! The overalls that Lainey is wearing belonged to her great-grandfather on Steve's side. Every Risley since has had their picture taken in these overalls from the backside (except Desha of course who was too big when she came home!). Dellaine has a collection of the photos and so these will be the latest addition.

New Trick

2009-03-02T10:10:00.002-05:00

No she's not walking yet, but very soon I think she will take her first steps. Until then, climbing everything is her latest trick. Here's where I found Lainey last week! She thinks it's fun to push the toy piano up against anything she'd like to climb up on and then use it to climb up! She's very smart...and quite proud of herself as you can see!

As you can imagine, she is moving faster than this blog loads, so posts have been few and far between!!

Happy Valentine's Day!

2009-02-14T06:52:00.002-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day!! We love Valentine's Day here at our house for many reasons, but most of all because it is this day 3 years ago that we stood before a judge in Russia and were made the official parents of Desha Louise Risley! Below are some photos from when she first came home and also our time in Russia.

Much love to everyone today!

Kathy

Desha in our home, dressed and ready for her first day of preschool. She is giving the funniest expression, but she was so proud of her backpack and her pink boots.

Desha in her room on her first morning here at our house, playing with all of her special things.

Steve, Kathy and Desha in front of St. Basil's Cathedral in Moscow before we went to the US Embassy to finalize our paperwork for our trip back to the US.

Leaving the orphanage and heading to the hotel- our first time with Desha when she was officially our daughter (no car seats in Russia!).

Steve and Desha playing together in the orphanage just before we went to court (Valentine's Day 2006). Doesn't she look so happy?

Snow Day

2009-01-29T15:06:00.003-05:00

Some of my favorites

2009-01-27T13:56:00.004-05:00

Here are some of my favorite pics of the kids over the last month or so:

Who is this big girl?

Valentine's Day we'll celebrate 3 years that Desha has officially been ours. I took this picture for the final report due to Russia (HOORAY!!!!). We were required to do a report every year for 3 years following her adoption. When I told Andy that we were about to celebrate Desha being with us for 3 years, he looked at me funny like, "hasn't she ALWAYS been with us?"

God is so good to knit all of our hearts together in this very special way. Even to the point that it is hard to remember that Desha was not born of my body. Praise Him!

Lainey, always posing for a picture as if she is saying, "cheese."

She is getting so big! Climbing, crawling- always on the go, wanting to keep up with the big kids!

The girls in the bath.

Desha is training up Lainey in the way of princesses. And though you can't see them here, there is a whole set of princesses they play with in the tub together.

Andy's reaction on Christmas morning when he realized that he actually got what he asked for! I can't believe Steve got this shot!

Andy, Desha and Lainey in front of the Christmas Tree on Christmas morning

(check out Andy's new hairdo, just like his Dad!!)

"Has anyone seen my cheerio? I know it is here somewhere!"

"Socks? Who needs 'em? We live at the beach Mommy!"

Piano from Nana

2009-01-24T08:30:00.002-05:00

Finally! I have had the hardest time posting! Our internet has been down for a week. Here are pictures of the kids with the newest addition to our house- my grandmother's player piano! Late at night or early in the morning, this is the scene at our house!

Grassy Creek

2009-01-09T13:46:00.002-05:00

This pics are old - but never posted them. They are from our trip to Grassy Creek (near Sylva) with some dear friends.

Andy serenading Caroline on the guitar....it starts early!!

All the kids picked these apples and Andy came in wondering if the "women" could make some cobbler. What kind of little man am I raising?

Andy and Desha rock hopping at our stop in Montreat on the way back home from Grassy Creek.

Desh found this leaf and couldn't believe it was bigger than her head!

Lainey's first swing ride!!

Been a long time...

2009-01-09T13:34:00.003-05:00

Yikes! It's been over a month since I posted!! Probably no one still checking my blog after waiting this long! Sorry about that!

Thanksgiving was wonderful! We spent it in Raleigh with Steve's entire family which was a blast. All the cousins loved playing together!

Everyone in the family had one form or another of the "crud" in December (which is why I didn't get to posting!). But we are all well now.

Christmas was an amazing celebration - here with Steve's family Christmas Eve and Christmas Day and then Greensboro with my family the weekend after Christmas (roller skating - oh yeah!, and lots and lots of fun with the all those on my side).

I'm looking forward to Jan. and Feb. as they are filled with preparations for the 8th annual Women's Conference our church hosts:

www.womenofthewordconference.com

Check it out! And also gearing up to start Moms Survival Class again at the end of January, each Thursday for 8 weeks. It's always such a blessing a privilege to be involved with both of these ministries.

I'm just going to post some of my favorite pictures over the past month! Hope you enjoy them!

Happy New Year!

Love,

Kathy

Liz is Back in Town!

2008-11-24T15:35:00.002-05:00

Becky, Robin, me, Liz

I'm soooooooo excited!! My girlfriends from Peace were here this weekend and we had a ball! Liz moved back to Wilmington last weekend (HOORAY!!!) and Becky and Robin came in town to visit her. We went out to dinner Saturday night and laughed so hard. It was good to laugh and be silly again!

Love you girls!!

Desha Lou is getting old

2008-11-22T09:01:00.002-05:00

My sister Anne had this picture on her Facebook page and it is one that I love but did not have, so I saved it and am sharing it here! This is mom, Desha and Granny the first time we took Desha to VA to meet everyone on Mom's side of the family. They were standing at the railing overlooking the river and cousin Mark's boat (this was just a few minutes before Desha decided she would be independent and walk down and get on that big boat all by herself and fell in the water between the boat and the dock!).

It's hard to believe how much she has grown. I feel like she was just so little in this picture. I love it of all 3 of them and just wanted to share!

Nana's 90th!

2008-11-18T07:37:00.005-05:00

We traveled to Atlanta this past weekend to celebrate my grandmother's 90th birthday! The trip was great and the weather was beautiful. We were so grateful to be able to be together to celebrate this monumental occasion with Nana.

Happy 90th Nana!

We love you!!

Sister Beth, Nana, me

Nana with all her great-grandchildren

Nana with her children

(Dad and Aunt Lora)

The Rissmiller Girls

The great-grandchildren were in charge of getting people to sign the guest book at the party. I wish we had pictures of them hunting people down as they got out of their cars, or pulling them out of the party to be sure they signed the book. They took their job VERY seriously!

Visit with the McPhaul's

2008-11-17T19:53:00.002-05:00

We were so lucky to have our friends Lynn and Press and their sweet girls Anna and Emma come to visit us a couple of weekends ago. The kids all had a blast playing together - especially Anna and Desha. Lynn and I met when we both attended Peace College and then lived together when we transferred to NC State. It was so wonderful to be together with our families and catch up on life.

Thanks for a great visit Lynnie-poo... love you!

Emma

Desha and Anna playing the princess game.

Happy Birthday Desha!

2008-11-17T06:45:00.003-05:00

Happy Birthday sweet girl! I can't believe you are already 5 years old!! Wow time seems to be flying by. I am so proud of you. You are growing into such a fine young girl. This picture makes me so happy because it is so you! This is from Saturday afternoon at Nana's 90th birthday party in Atlanta. You, Andy and Jonah were being so silly and having so much fun!

I love you big girl!!

Mommy

Poor Baby

2008-11-11T16:41:00.004-05:00

Poor baby Lainey! This is what happens when your Mommy won't let you have a bumper pad, a lovey or a blanket. All you get is a firm mattress and a pacifier! Sweet girl can sleep anywhere!

: )

Looking for Pumpkins

2008-11-08T07:22:00.001-05:00

It's very exhausting to look for pumpkins!

Weekend fun

2008-11-08T07:11:00.004-05:00

Now you'll be able to quickly tell that Pete did not take these pictures! These were just some other shots from the weekend we had Lainey baptized. Below are a few from Krazy Pizza (we went there after worship on Saturday night).

Mema and cousin Stetler

Uncle Jim and Stetler

Lainey with Kate's "bling" purse...

the girl was fascinated with some "bling"!!

Kate giving Lainey a bath

More of my favorites from Pete

2008-11-07T13:16:00.005-05:00

Naked baby!

Kate checking out the gown.

I love this picture, I think it is so sweet- like a little girl admiring a wedding dress...only it's a baptismal gown!

Aunt Beth and Lainey

The kids playing chase outside the church.

Desha

More Great Pictures from Pete

2008-11-07T13:02:00.003-05:00

Steve and Lainey

The girls (minus Anne- we missed you!!)

The Risley boys and their families

Mema and Poppy

with our kids

Grommy and Grandaddy

with their grandkids

Lainey's Baptism

2008-11-07T12:31:00.005-05:00

These beautiful shots were taken by our friend and photographer, Pete Artemenko on the night we had Lainey baptized a few weeks ago. (You can see more of his amazing work on his blog- click "Pete and Katie" under Buddies with Blogs, or check out his business website: www.latentdesign.com). He did an unbelievable job and took some beautiful pictures- you never would have known that it was misting rain and was pretty cold that day. Thanks Pete!

Andy, Desha and Lainey with their cousins, Kate and Jonah.

Our family

Lainey-bird in the family baptismal gown.

My mother made this gown from the bottom of my wedding dress. She cut out of the train and made it years ago for Andy's baptism. Then Dellaine embroidered an "R" and a cross on the front, along with our names and the kids names on the lining, when Desha was baptized.

New Face For Fall

2008-11-07T07:32:00.004-05:00

Just wanted to add a new look for Fall, kind of like getting a new outfit I guess, but much cheaper on the blog!! I have lots of new stuff to post from our trip to the Mountains this last weekend, Halloween, Lainey's Baptism, etc. Hope I'll get to do that soon. In the meantime, my new favorite picture is above (I also made it my profile pic). This is in front of the dam in Montreat (the place I grew up going with my family for our annual vacation). We stopped at Montreat on our way back from Grassy Creek and poked around. It was lots of fun!

Fun with Granny!

2008-11-04T16:11:00.003-05:00

After we left Raleigh we headed to Suffolk, VA to see my grandmother (my mother's mother), fondly known by everyone as "Granny". She is 91 and sharp as a tack. She no longer lives on her own, but is enjoying her retirement home. Mom and Dad also came to Suffolk and were a huge help with the kids. We were able to visit with Granny at her place as well as bring her over to the hotel for dinner and breakfast.

Sunday after breakfast Mom and Dad headed on to a meeting Dad had in Williamsburg and Granny hopped in our car and we spent the day driving around Suffolk seeing all the places I remember visiting as a child- Granny's house and farm land, her parent's farm, her church, and all the sights of Suffolk. It was so incredible to hear Granny tell me and the children all about her life and each of the places we visited. We went to the cemetery to replace flowers at each of the family grave sites and Granny was able to share wonderful memories of each person.

It didn't occur to me until we left that I should have used the video recorder on my camera to record Granny's voice telling us all of these amazing stories and wonderful history about our family. It will be hard to remember it all, but that time was some of the most precious that we have spent together.

I was praising God all the way home to Wilmington that somehow the children did not complain or bicker one time while we had Granny with us and it was over 3 hours!! Truly a gift from God.

Some of the highlights for the kids are recorded below. Some family friend's of Granny's bought her old house and she still owns the farmland and rents it out, so we were able to explore her old property (which my sisters and I did as children all the time!!) and tramps through the peanut, soybean and cotton and have a ball.

Below is a pic of Andy and Desha in front of an old tractor behind Granny's old house (they had a blast sitting on it and "driving"). There are numerous old sheds and such behind Granny's old house full of great stuff for kids to explore!

Andy and Desha thought it was incredible that cotton grew from a plant and that you could pick it. Below is a picture of them on the property that used to belong to Grandmother and Grandaddy Savage (Granny's mom and dad). Their house was torn down, but the house behind the kids sits exactly where their old house stood. The low building the far left of the house was Grandaddy Savage's old hog house.

Robert and Mary Alice (the new owners of Granny's house) were so gracious and let us explore all around the yard and even let me dig up some plants that Granny had planted herself decades ago. Robert dug up a huge piece of Granny's fig tree for me to take home and then took the children out into the peanut fields where the farmers had dug up the peanut bushes and were letting them dry. The kids thought it was so cool to be able to bring home an entire peanut bush!

Granny loving on Lainey. It was so sweet to see them together.

MARBLES Museum in Raleigh

2008-10-21T10:46:00.002-04:00

I took the kids on a road trip a couple of weekends ago and our first stop was Raleigh to see Mema and Poppy. Mema took us to the Marbles Museum for children and the kids had a ball.

Andy and Desha playing "ice" hockey.

This was their favorite activity and

they could have done this all day.

Andy giving Desha a shot in the back of the ambulance.

Don't you always get your shots in the armpit?

The next two pictures capture the difference

in Andy and Desha's personalities perfectly.

Andy- facing forward,

two hands on the wheel, very controlled.

Desha- eyes closed,

one hand on the wheel, fishing

and driving at the same time!

Life is too short to follow the rules!

Random pics

2008-10-21T10:29:00.002-04:00

Here are just some random pictures we've taken around the house over the last month.

Steve teasing Lainey with a piece of "mean sawg"

(that's Steve's favorite dessert)

Me and my Daddy!

Like my big chair?

I sit here and eat my dinner like my big brother and big sister.

Andy, Desh and Lainey hanging out.

The official photo of the go-tee (did I spell that right? My spelling is awful!).

**NOTE- ALL FACIAL HAIR WAS SHAVED THIS MORNING : (

I thought it was kind of sexy!

My Big Cub Scout

2008-10-21T10:19:00.003-04:00

It's hard to believe that that this little one is old enough to be a cub scout. Andy is so proud of his uniform and his cub scout activities. Steve took him camping on the Parent/Son Weekend at Camp McNeill and they had a blast. Andy was so excited because he got to shoot a bee bee gun (is that how you spell it??) and a bow and arrow. Boy things!! I hope I will begin to understand it one day!

Two Sweet Girls!

2008-10-21T10:10:00.002-04:00

Lissi already posted one like these on her blog, but they are just too cute to miss. This is friend and next-door-neighbor Tyli with Lainey laying the afternoon sunshine, enjoying some playtime. They were so cute communicating with their little coos and squeals. This blanket was my sleeping bag when I was a little girl, so it makes me smile to see these little ones playing on it.

I can finally post again!!!

2008-10-21T10:02:00.002-04:00

I've tried so many times on different days to post and have had trouble with my connection dropping. So hooray - I can finally post some pics of things we've been up to lately! Here's little Lainey after church one Sunday cracking herself up!!

Desha's First Soccer Game

2008-09-16T07:31:00.003-04:00

Desha started playing soccer this year. She is so excited and loves practicing kicking the ball around with her brother and Daddy. We are so lucky to have our buddy Craig (friends who just moved here from NJ) as her soccer coach. He is so talented and patient and really loves the kids. Her first game was on Saturday and she was so thrilled because she scored a goal! I was home with Lainey (it was very hot out) so Steve and Andy were there and Steve said Andy almost rushed the field he was so excited for her.

Desha buddy CJ (Craig's son)

Some new pics

2008-09-16T07:21:00.002-04:00

I haven't had a chance to post in a while - hurricane preparation (we did fine, no damage), Steve had a little elbow surgery that had him in a cast for almost 2 weeks, Andy home sick with a fever for a week, Desha home sick with a fever this week...just one of those months. Nothing huge or life-threatening, which we are certainly grateful for, just little inconveniences that keep you from your normal routine.

Finally a new post!!

2008-09-16T07:09:00.003-04:00

Have I built the suspense enough? I know my family is getting sick of checking the blog and there not being an update as to what Lainey's new trick is! Well it's been almost a month and she's mastered lots of new tricks since this one, but still, it's very exciting. Watch below...

Ready to see my new trick?

Watch close or you'll miss it because I'm fast!

Are you watching? Here I go...

TA DA!!!

You blinked didn't you!

That's ok, Mommy missed it the first 5 times I did it.

She'd turn her head and...SURPRISE, I'd be flipped over!

It sure was funny to see her try and figure out how I did that.

Check out my new ride!

2008-08-28T13:55:00.003-04:00

Hey check out my new ride! It's been a big week and guess what else I can do??? See the next post!!!

Another Spectacular Rainbow

2008-08-28T07:43:00.002-04:00

Somehow God has seen fit to allow us to witness the most spectacular rainbows this summer. These pics are from our drive to the SeaTac airport to fly home. I've never seen a double rainbow with this much color (you may have to click on the photos to see the second one next to the first one). And of course my little camera does not do this magnificent gift justice. I think Gonka must have requested this rainbow special. Must have made her heart happy to see us all together and having so much fun!

What a perfect ending to a perfect visit with our wonderful family in Seattle- thanks everyone!

The Nibble on Dibble

2008-08-28T07:28:00.003-04:00

We were so excited to be in Seattle for the annual " Nibble on Dibble" ! This is Renelle and Cindy's neighborhood party like no other (they live on Dibble Ave.). The neighborhood gets together and builds this GIGANTIC water slide, has food, games, bouncy house, puppy parade, etc. We've heard about it for years and couldn't wait to see it in person...check out the pictures of the slide...this has to be safe and legal - right?

The 62 degree weather and rain did not keep the kids from sliding down multiple times into frigid cold water. They had a blast with their cousins! Thanks R & C for hosting us all!

Andy after climbing to the top

Desha on her way down!

Desh and Zoe all snuggled up in Zoe's bed playing.

They are wearing the 2008 Nibble on Dibble t-shirt!

A great gift R&C- thank you!!

More Reunion Pics from Seattle

2008-08-28T07:25:00.001-04:00

Here are a few more family shots from the reunion in Seattle.

Brunch at the Seattle Space Needle

2008-08-23T08:58:00.003-04:00

Our sister-in-law Cindy and her mother were so generous to take us all to the Space Needle for brunch on Saturday. The restaurant is at the top and it revolves slowly so that you can see the entire city while eating. The food was fabulous, the view was spectacular and it was so fun to be together with all the cousins! Thank you Cindy!

Jim, Renelle and Steve

Mandy and Andy on the observation deck

The Fish Ladder

2008-08-23T08:41:00.004-04:00

Steve and the kids watching the salmon jump upstream through the ladder (the salmon is the long dark thing in the white water)

Desha and Andy watching the fish travel upstream from underneath the fish ladder

While we were at the Ballard Locks (see post below), we watched the GIANT salmon jumping up the fish ladder. The fish ladder allows salmon to travel up from the saltwater Puget Sound to the freshwater Salmon Bay to spawn. Normally they would travel up a stream to do this, but when the Locks were built, the the stream was no longer there, so the Army Corp of Engineers built the ladder system to allow the fish to continue to spawn.

It was incredible to see these enormous fish from above, jumping out of the water, up through this system of ladders and also from below (as you see Desha and Andy doing).

The Ballard Locks

2008-08-23T08:24:00.003-04:00

These pictures are from our visit to the Ballard Locks in Seattle. Steve's sister lives in the Ballard neighborhood close by. The Ballard Locks serve as the passageway for boats traveling from Lake Washington or Lake Union to the Puget Sound. It is fascinating to watch the boats pull into the locks, the water drop 26 feet, the locks open and the boats travel through.

Anderson Family Gathering

2008-08-17T22:09:00.006-04:00

Steve's Uncle Spike and Aunt Carol hosted two wonderful evenings of fun at a park on Lake Washington for all of the family gathered in Seattle to remember Gonka. The location was perfect for the kids and the adults- beautiful green grass to run around barefoot and play frisbee, warm weather one night allowed for swimming (and Andy and Alex digging up clams), and all the adults sprawled around visiting, laughing and enjoying great family memories.

I know Gonka was smiling down on us all and enjoying watching her entire family gathered together and having such a wonderful time.

Alex and Andy gathering clams in Lake Washington

Steve, Lainey, Jim & Stetler

Aunt Carol holding a laughing Lainey

Mandy and Lainey

The kids

Desha playing frisbee

Sweet Tabitha loving on Lainey

Spectacular Park in Seattle

2008-08-17T21:49:00.007-04:00

When we were in Seattle, Renelle took us to a spectacular new park near her house for the kids to play. They had a ball, riding bikes and scooters, playing and running and eating yummy dinner Cindy brought us after work. What a fun day with the cousins.

The cousins

Steve playing with the kids on the "roundy-round"

The view from the park - Downtown Seattle and Lake Washington (is that right Renelle? so many bodies of water, now I'm not sure which is which!)

My crazy husband on a child-size scooter - still a kid at heart!

The DUCK!

2008-08-13T14:12:00.004-04:00

One of the most hilarious and fun things we did while in Seattle was RIDE THE DUCK!! If you are from Seattle you know what this is, but we didn't know anything about it! It is a 90 minute land and water tour on a fully restored World War II amphibious landing craft. I feel certain that the military had no idea what these would be used for when they were using them to drive up on enemy beaches.

We LOVED THE DUCK! It was an awesome tour of the entire city (from Pioneer Square to Pike Place Market, Safeco Field to the famous floating homes on Lake Union). Captain "Quack-tastic" entertained us with LOUD, FUN music, great jokes while giving us some folklore and history of the city. And the kids didn't lose interest - which is truly amazing for a 90 minute tour!

Captain "Quack-tastic" with the cousins!

The DUCK on land

The Duck in the water

Cousin Mandy holding Lainey

Poppy and Desha on the Duck

Andy and Mandy on the duck

More Seattle Pictures

2008-08-12T08:47:00.003-04:00

Visiting Pike Place Market was a highlight of the trip. The kids had fun buying fresh peaches and cherries from some funny guys that played tricks on them and told jokes. Desha wasn't so sure of all the yelling and screaming and fish flying, but Andy seemed to like it... they were icing up the GIANT SALMON on display and I guess Andy was asking too many questions and got ice dumped on his head...you know he loved that though!

Back from SEATTLE!!

2008-08-12T08:17:00.003-04:00

We are back from Seattle and what an amazing trip! The weather was BEAUTIFUL - sunny, no humidity, no bugs, and 70's and low 80's! Couldn't ask for better than that! All of Steve's family was there so it was a great time gathering together family from the EAST & WEST coasts. Andy and Desha loved visiting with their aunts Renelle and Cindy and had a blast playing with their cousins Mandy, Zack and Zoe and meeting and playing with second and third cousins, great aunts and uncles and all kinds of extended family!

We traveled to Seattle to celebrate and remember the life of Steve's grandmother "Gonka" (Echo Dell Anderson). A beautiful and classy woman who died this past October. She was from Seattle but had moved out to Raleigh a little over a decade ago. We feel so blessed to have known such a kind and selfless woman - and especially to have had the opportunity to spend so much time with her these last years while she was in NC. What a treasure for our children to get to know a great-grandmother and spend so much time with her. (This makes me long to live closer to my grandmothers). Gonka was an amazing lady and will be dearly missed!

Steve put together a slideshow in memory of Gonka and put it on YouTube. If you want to see it, go to www.youtube.com and "Gonka's Memorial" in the search bar. There's only one GONKA, so you are sure to find it!

I'll post more later, but here are some of our favorite pictures from the trip!

Who are these two big kids on the plane??

Desha reading a magazine...after all, that's what you do on an airplane, right?

Desha and Lainey on the flight over.

The kids did remarkably well traveling.

Steve, Desha and Cousin Mark

We had lunch at Iver's on the water in downtown Seattle with Steve's cousin Mark.

Fish and chips all around!

Andy and Desha in an arcade downtown Seattle.

Wonderful night at the beach!

2008-08-03T19:10:00.001-04:00

These pictures are from last weekend - we joined 4 other families out at the beach one night for a picnic dinner and playtime. It was an absolutely gorgeous night - perfect weather, perfect water, perfect group of friends. You couldn't ask for anything better. God is Good!

4th of July at Mema and Poppy's

2008-07-29T07:45:00.004-04:00

Stetler and Lainey chilling by Mema's pool

The big slide!!!

Lainey's first dip!

Our backyard fireworks display!

The drive home...

Sure sign of a GREAT weekend!

I realized I never posted these pics from our trip to Raleigh for July 4th. It was a great weekend of swimming and playing with Mema, Poppy, Uncle Jim, Aunt Shannon and Cousin Stetler. Fun, fun, fun!!

Angel girl

2008-07-29T07:41:00.004-04:00

My friend Jen took these pictures of Lainey a couple of weeks ago and I thought they were so sweet. I could just eat her up!

More Swim Pics

2008-07-29T07:37:00.003-04:00

At the risk of being obnoxious, I'm posting some more pics from the swim championships. My friend Ashley took these and she has a great camera. This was right when Andy was getting ready to swim freestyle. He looks so serious!!!!

Wilmington Swim Champions!

2008-07-24T15:16:00.007-04:00

Andy on the starting blocks at one of the past meets

Desha at one of the past meets

Andy and Anna Grace at the championship meet

Desha and Andy with their swim trophies

at the banquet

Andy with the Coach's Award

Andy's back at the swim championships

Tattoos that say, "Eat My Bubbles"

We are so excited to report that Andy and Desha's swim team, Pine Valley, won the Wilmington Swim League Championships! Way to go PVCC!!

The 8 and under age groups swam on Sunday and Andy competed in butterfly, freestyle and backstroke (Desha was still recovering from tonsil surgery so was unable to compete). It turned out to be a very exciting day! We didn't realize until we arrived at the meet that Andy would be competing in the fastest heats for all 3 events. His biggest competition was a buddy on his team that had beat him at every other meet throughout the season.

Andy told us Sunday morning after church (before the championships) that he had prayed to God and asked Him to give him strong muscles so that he could swim fast and maybe even beat his friend for the first time. We thought it was so sweet that he had prayed about it and sort of giggled over it a bit.

But sure enough we were all praising God later that evening after Andy won FIRST PLACE in both backstroke and freestyle. He was also thrilled to place 2nd in butterfly and his relay team placed 2nd in the freestyle relay.

All in all it was an amazing Sunday filled with hard work, success and as always, God teaching us adults a few lessons!

We celebrated as a team at the swim banquet last night. Andy was given the Coach's Award- this was such an honor and a huge surprise. What a great night to see all the kids smiling so big and celebrating a season of hard work and lots of fun!

Visit with Kristine

2008-07-24T07:30:00.003-04:00

This is a picture from my meeting with Kristine who co-leads the Moms Survival Class at church with me (can you tell how much work we got done?).

She is admittedly NOT a baby person, but Lainey was just smiling at her the entire time we were trying to plan for class this Fall. Finally Kristine picked her up and Lainey just went to town smiling, laughing and cooing. It was a fun morning!

Those of you in Moms Survival Class- Kristine and I are getting excited!! We're planning to start September 11, and go 10 weeks!! Can't wait to see everyone!

Like my new seat?

2008-07-16T13:38:00.004-04:00

This is my new BUMBO seat and I LOVE IT! I can sit up in it and it makes me laugh! I even fussed when Mommy told me it was time to get out and take a nap. I sure hope she puts me back in it later!

Love,

Lainey

Happy Birthday Uncle Jim!

2008-07-15T16:52:00.003-04:00

Happy Birthday Uncle Jim!

You still got it, even on roller skates!

Hope you have a great day!

He Hath Done Great Things For Us

2008-07-14T08:18:00.004-04:00

Today is July 14th and if Jacob were alive, we'd be celebrating his 5th birthday today. It is truly hard to believe that it has been 5 years. Someone once told me that when raising children, the days are long and the years are short- this is so true in this instance as well.

Some scriptures that come to mind today as I think about all that God has done for us since Jacob's life and death...

You turned my wailing into dancing;

you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy.

Psalm 30:11

He reached down from on high and took hold of me;

he drew me out of deep waters.

He brought me out into a spacious place;

he rescued me because he delighted in me.

Psalm 18:16,19

The Lord has done great things for us,

and we are filled with joy.

Those who sow in tears

will reap with songs of joy.

He who goes out weeping,

carrying seed to sow,

will return with songs of joy,

carrying sheaves with him

Psalm 126:3,5-6

3 Months old

2008-07-13T19:08:00.006-04:00

I'm getting bigger!! I'm 3 months old now and I think it's fun to laugh and smile and talk baby talk. I love my bouncy seat and my mobile over my crib. But most of all I love when someone smiles at me!

Fun Day

2008-07-12T20:14:00.004-04:00

Steve, Jackson and Andy jumping off the boat.

Jackson and Andy jumping off the boat.

Jackson and Andy collecting treasures.

Andy with the sand dollars he and Jackson found.

Steve and I took Andy and his buddy Jackson out on the boat all day. Here are some shots from our day.

Desha and Lainey were home with Jenica having a girl day. Desha has been doing well recovering from her tonsil surgery- looks like the hardest thing will be keeping her from "rigorous activity" for two weeks!

Desha's Tonsils

2008-07-10T16:04:00.004-04:00

We haven't had a chance to post in a while, but we found out about a week and a half ago that Desha needed to have her tonsils and adnoids removed because they were causing her so much trouble (sore throats, earaches, sinus infections, head aches, etc.) for a long time.

She had surgery this morning and it went well- the doctor said her adnoids were "enormous". She was so brave going into the surgery- much more so than us- it will make your heart sink to see your little one walk away with a nurse down the hallway holding her stuffed animal. But she went as if it was something she did every day.

She was pretty cranky when she woke up afterward, but then settled right down and slept in my lap in the recovery room until they let us go home. When we got home she was pretty out of it so she took a nap. Afterward she woke up and was sick on her stomach, but now seems to be much happier and is upstairs watching a movie and snuggling with Grommy and Lainey.

The first picture above was one I took while Desha and Andy were playing doctor the other night. A friend of mine who brought them all these great dress up things to prepare Desha for her surgery. It was such a great idea and really helped Desha feel comfortable. The kids thought it was so cool!!

Some of you might recognize Tigger...this was Jacob's stuffed animal and we had it at his memorial. Recently Desha found him and claimed him for herself and wanted to take him with her to surgery today. While Desh was in surgery the nurse dressed Tigger up - IV and all. Desha thought this was great.

Thank you for your thoughts and prayers. We'll just be hanging out here watching movies and eating ice cream!

Visit with "relatives"

2008-07-02T09:30:00.006-04:00

We drove down to Ocean Isle yesterday to visit with some old friends. Melissa (Mel) and I grew up together and so her sister and parents are like a second family to me. They were all gathered for a week in a beautiful home nestled between the ocean and the sound with spectacular views, a pool and lots of places to play and explore.

Mel's daughter Gracie kept asking us, "now how are ya'll related?" Mel and I kept laughing saying we we weren't but Gracie had it in her mind that we were. Mel finally tried to relate it to her like this...she said, "Grace, you know when you find an old stuffed animal in the back of your closet that you just couldn't get rid of because you love it so much? That's kind of like Kathy." So needless to say, I'm an old stuffed animal you can't get rid of!

Mel and Brad, Meredith and Mike, Troy and Sue- thanks for a great day of sun, fun and lots of laughs as usual!! We love you all!

Gracie, Lilly and Mason- Andy Desha and Lainey had so much fun playing with you all and woke up this morning wanting to come back!!

We hope to visit with you all again soon!

Steve and I with Brad and Mel

Mel and Lainey

Meredith and Lainey

(Merf your a natural!)

Mike and Lainey

(Looks good Merf...hmmm????)

All the kids

Gracie and Andy hit it off-

a picture is worth a thousand words - need I say more?

Desh and Lilly

Mel and I with the big kids in the pool

Party at Lissi and Ty's

2008-07-02T09:23:00.004-04:00

Our friends next door, Lissi and Ty had a big gathering and the kids were all playing in the backyard - we had to try to snap a pic of all the little munchkins...too cute! Now this is summertime- running around in the grass barefoot until dark!

Family Adventure Day 5- Farewell!

2008-07-02T09:04:00.004-04:00

It was hard to say goodbye to the mountains and this beautiful spot we've called home for the past few days. But what an adventure we've had! Here's Andy and Desha enjoying their morning coffee (hot chocolate) outside like two old souls.

On our way home we stopped in Raleigh to visit with Mema and Poppy and enjoy a yummy dinner and a dip in the pool!

Family Adventure Day 4 - part 2

2008-07-02T08:45:00.003-04:00

The second half of day 4's adventure was spent exploring nature. There is a beautiful creek that runs through the community we were staying in. Steve took the kids crawfish hunting and rock hopping. They could have stayed all day and night. I have great memories of doing this same thing when I was a child, so I had a ball sitting up on the bridge over them watching them explore. Desha is showing off what they found.

Family Adventure Day 4 - part 1

2008-07-02T07:23:00.006-04:00

Yes, those are big, fat trout waiting to be caught.

Day 4 of our Family Adventure was in two parts...the first, as you can see from these pictures we took the kids to the Grandfather Mountain Trout Farm. Once again we didn't tell them where we were going, but when we pulled in and saw the big sign and the big fish, the kids when crazy (they LOVE to fish).

We had been here once before with my parents when Andy was 3 or so and had a ball. The fish are HUGE and are very easy to catch. You keep everything you catch and they fillet it for you...so after some fun fishing, we caught 6 HUGE fish weighing in at a total of 16 pounds and needless to say had trout for dinner.

This is a great place to take the kids to fish because it is small and manageable and they will ALWAYS catch one (or as many as you'd like!) and the fish are enormous! I'm not sure who went crazier each time a fish was on the line...Andy or Steve.

Family Adventure Day 3

2008-06-28T14:31:00.003-04:00

As you can tell by the photos, we took the kids to Tweetsie Railroad for the day on Sunday. We didn't tell the kids where we were going (Family Adventure Rule #1). We dodged the thunderstorms and arrived in time for a sunny afternoon riding the train, the rides and experiencing the life of a cowboy (or cowgirl)!

There aren't any photos of us riding the lift chairs up to the top of the hill...Steve and I were both holding on to the kids for dear life and about to throw up! The kids though it was great of course! Another fabulous day in the mountains.

More Day 2 Adventure

2008-06-27T15:57:00.002-04:00

Rainbow over the mountains

Mmmmmm...S'mores!!

I forgot to mention our Day 2 adventure included a great drenching rain in the afternoon and then a giant rainbow that lasted about 10 minutes just off the back porch in front of the mountain view. It was as if God was putting an exclamation point on His beautiful creation. It was truly spectacular! We took a million pictures of it on every setting of our camera and this was only the best we could do...it certainly does not do it justice!!

Just Because She's Cute

2008-06-27T15:51:00.003-04:00

Family Adventure Day 2

2008-06-26T17:21:00.004-04:00

We woke up Saturday morning in Greensboro and packed the kids up in the car and let them watch a movie. They never asked where we were going, I guess they thought we were going home. When the movie was over they took off their headphones and Andy said, "is that a MOUNTAIN? Are we in the MOUNTAINS?"

Needless to say, the kids were very excited! This was the first time Desha had seen mountains so it was exciting to watch her eyes get bigger and bigger as we drove into Boone. We stopped for lunch at the Daniel Boone Inn and had a great meal and the kids played in the yard of the restaurant, catching butterflies.

After lunch we headed up to Linville to a mountain house that some very kind and generous friends let us use. It was truly spectacular. The view from the porch was of Grandfather Mountain and the mile high swinging bridge (not sure if you can see the bridge from my pics or not). The kids were in heaven exploring everything - they were even able to explore at night with the headlamps that Daddy bought them as a surprise and packed in their suitcases. Fun stuff!

As a side note, the generosity of our friends to share something so nice with us had me thinking...do I share the best of what I have with others? I think sometimes I am very willing to share when I have extra, or more than enough, or maybe something that isn't my nicest thing, but would I be willing to share the best of what I have so freely? This is true generosity.

Another act of kindness that had me thinking was that my sister Anne gave up her room and her bed for Steve and I when we stayed in Greensboro - she slept on the couch. Another example of giving the best of what you have to someone else, even to the point of making you more uncomfortable in the process.

I believe we are certainly called to love people more than things - but this does challenge me to think about "my things" in a new way- especially the things I value as my best stuff...then again, that's all it is right? Just...stuff- we can't take it with us, so we might as well share it while we are here. And is it really "mine"? Another great question to ponder.

Thanks friends and family for teaching us this very important lesson without words, just by the way you live.

Andy, Desha and Lainey in the gardens at the Daniel Boone Inn after lunch.

Andy and Desha ready to explore with their headlamps at the mountain house.

The view from the porch- breathtaking!

Steve gets hold of the camera...

Me and Lainey

Andy and Lainey hanging out on the porch.

Family Adventure Day 1

2008-06-26T17:02:00.005-04:00

Steve and I surprised the kids on Friday and picked them up from Vacation Bible School and headed off on a surprise adventure! Day 1 was a stop in Greensboro at the pool my sister Beth and her family belong to. Andy and Desha got to practice with their cousins' swim team and we got to visit with both of my sisters and my Mom and Dad (Grommy and Grandaddy). We spent the night at Mom and Dad's and had a great visit. Here are some pictures from our Day 1 Adventure!

Andy and cousin Kate after swim practice

Lainey laughing with Grommy

Grandaddy loving on Lainey

All the cousins in their pj's after dinner and showers at the pool

Kate getting her "Lainey fix"

Visit with Holly and kids

2008-06-19T06:57:00.004-04:00

Meet Holly, Thomas and Liza! Holly and I went to Peace College together, she was down in Ocean Isle with her family on vacation and drove up for a visit. It was so good to be with her and meet her children. They are so beautiful and calm and sweet (just like their Momma!)

Thanks for making the trip Holly! Love you!!

Holly holding Lainey!

Sweet, sweet Thomas playing in Desha's room.

Liza was so cute entertaining Lainey.

She'd rub her feet and was so gentle with her.

Lainey likes her new friend!!

Summer Fun

2008-06-19T06:48:00.005-04:00

Nothing says summer like popsicles in the pool!

Caitlin and Desha with popsicle faces.

These two are peas in a pod.

My neighbor Lissi calls these "blog moments" - certainly they are.

Why I'm having a great day...

2008-06-16T11:15:00.004-04:00

Can you imagine why I am THRILLED my kitchen is this messy????

Does this picture give you any clues??

OH YES~ it's JAM MAKING SEASON!! My very favorite thing to do in the world is make jam. I learned from Dellaine and it makes me so happy to make a big sticky mess and end up with jars of yummy jam.

Singing to David Crowder...

Crushing berries...

Making a mess...

Big kids at VBS...

and Lainey....

COOPERATING!!!!

God is so good. Just had to share my happy day with you!

Beautiful Night at the Rippy's

2008-06-14T14:55:00.005-04:00

The girls talking and rocking babies (there were 3 babies under 4 months and 2 on the way).

Steve free boarding behind the Rippy's house.

Lainey and Ben

We went to the Rippy's last night to have dinner with Nate, Kim and some others. It was a gorgeous night - we sat out on the porch and watched the guys free boarding out in the cove. Lainey met a boy- how exciting! Kate and Pete's son Ben is 4 days older than Lainey and they were too cute (of course I snapped a million pictures of these little love bugs).

The Stratmans are in town!

2008-06-14T14:20:00.004-04:00

Steve and Ruthie

Ruthie making herself at home...it's much more fun to eat chips with your foot up on the table.

Kim, Lainey and Ruth

We are so thrilled Nate, Kim and Ruthie are in town for a week and a half. They came to dinner Thursday night and we had a blast. Ruthie is absolutely beautiful and smart and has the most precious smile you've ever seen. So good to be with them. There aren't any pictures of Nate because he doesn't sit down or slow down long enough for me to snap a picture!

More Jungle Rapids Pics

2008-06-09T10:08:00.004-04:00

Close up of the earlier pic- these faces are priceless!

Can't resist swimming out to the waterfall in the wave pool.