18 Years of being Married, and I'm still learning!

It's been over two months since my last post and I wonder what all I've done. I haven't given up being 'online' but I think I can say that Facebook has taken precedence over my blogging hobby. I hate that because what I love about blogging is what I get to glean from other people - their thoughts, suggestions and life experiences. I hate that I've been slacking....because truly, God has given me some really cool experiences lately that I could have shared with others as well. But...today, while I am at home (on my second pot of coffee) I thought it would be a great start or re-entry if you will to my own blog!

Sunday, November 22 I celebrated my 18th wedding anniversary. Amazing how the years fly by. We were both really busy over the weekend so planning a celebration was not in the forefront of either of our minds. I had been with 50 teenage girls over the weekend and Kevin was busy helping me and taking care of things at home. So,when I got home Sunday evening, our oldest already had friends over and had started a bonfire in the back and the other two boys were busy as well. Not the romantic night anyone would plan for their anniversary - but not too late in the evening,we were lucky enough to find that the teenagers had abandoned their bonfire and gone to a movie! Score! We found a place to have some quite time. I found two wine glasses and my favorite white wine and soon, the two of us were having romantic conversation and enjoying a beautiful fire. We enjoyed that for maybe 30 minutes before our youngest very excitedly came out asking so nicely "may I join you two". No kidding...that is what he said. Of course we said yes. And we enjoyed our time with him around that fire. We laughed, roasted marshmallows and enjoyed being together. And after he left about an hour later, we were left with smiles and laughter as we both had this amazingly blessed feeling. We looked at each other and shared our thoughts on how happy our life is. It is not perfect by any means. We get frustrated, hurried, mad, overwhelmed, stressed, angry (yes we fight) and sad.....but at the end of the day we are there to help each other through all of those feelings. We also get to share the craziness our boys bring to our lives, bonfires with friends and being active in our church family and other groups like teenage retreats with lots of girls or boys. I can't imagine my life without this man.

Some days all we can find is 30 minutes around a second hand campfire. I know that is not enough - and believe me, we would both love to find more time. I hear people speak often of having a date night no matter what.....and I wonder how in the world do they do that - when Kevin and I can't seem to make that work with 2 busy teens and 1 busy 5th grader in the house. Our volunteer schedule seems to always be packed too. And I'm not complaining, because we love our lives...and our schedules. But we do crave more time with just each other. So, we take the 30 minutes here and there and we try and take time daily....weekly to make calls and send texts to express how much we love each other. And how we love this life we share together. I love that my husband is the only one who can truly share my joy and sadness where my family is concerns. He can laugh at the same things I find incredibly funny about my boys...and the crazy chaos we share inside the Johnson home. He gets it. He gets me and the fact that even though he bought me a front loading washer and dryer last year to help me with my laundry...I still wait until its piled up and nobody has underwear to wear. That is just one of the many things that sweet man deals with. I won't go into the rest!

I've shared before how my husband is an amazing gift giver. Well, this year - he did not disappoint. I came home to find a beautiful conch shell sitting on my dresser. This may seem small to many of you....but it was OVERWHELMING to me. You see, we took an amazing vacation this summer to St. Marteen and my husband went snorkeling and found 5 or 6 beautiful conch shells. I fell in love with one of them and while trying to take it home with me, it was confiscated by the airport authorities of St. Marteen. I was devastated. Our family who flew out a week after we did, learned from our mistake and packed the shells in their suitcases and were able to bring them home. For our anniversary, Kevin had them send one of the shells back to us and surprised me with it. I just cried. The shell they sent was from one of our favorite days there. Kevin knew this. I could not think of a more special gift to receive from my sweet husband.
Is this shell not amazing????(Thank you Steve and Nancy for sharing!!!)


Marriage is an awesome expression of love. I love what 1 Corinthians 13 says about love. The entire 13th chapter is wonderful. I hope to love my husband in this way....and my friends as well. Sometimes, I'm sad to say its harder to love my husband than my friends. I seem to take out my stresses on him daily because he is always there. He should be the one I give my best to at all times, but isn't that the way we are at times. Offering others the very best and the ones closest to us, and know us best are getting the leftovers. My aim is that I offer my amazing husband the type of love that is found in 1 Corinthians 13. This version is from The Message. I love how it reads;

1 Corinthians 13
The Way of Love
If I speak with human eloquence and angelic ecstasy but don't love, I'm nothing but the creaking of a rusty gate. If I speak God's Word with power, revealing all his mysteries and making everything plain as day, and if I have faith that says to a mountain, "Jump," and it jumps, but I don't love, I'm nothing. If I give everything I own to the poor and even go to the stake to be burned as a martyr, but I don't love, I've gotten nowhere. So, no matter what I say, what I believe, and what I do, I'm bankrupt without love.

Love never gives up.
Love cares more for others than for self.
Love doesn't want what it doesn't have.
Love doesn't strut,
Doesn't have a swelled head,
Doesn't force itself on others,
Isn't always "me first,"
Doesn't fly off the handle,
Doesn't keep score of the sins of others,
Doesn't revel when others grovel,
Takes pleasure in the flowering of truth,
Puts up with anything,
Trusts God always,
Always looks for the best,
Never looks back,
But keeps going to the end.
Love never dies. Inspired speech will be over some day; praying in tongues will end; understanding will reach its limit. We know only a portion of the truth, and what we say about God is always incomplete. But when the Complete arrives, our incompletes will be canceled.

When I was an infant at my mother's breast, I gurgled and cooed like any infant. When I grew up, I left those infant ways for good.

We don't yet see things clearly. We're squinting in a fog, peering through a mist. But it won't be long before the weather clears and the sun shines bright! We'll see it all then, see it all as clearly as God sees us, knowing him directly just as he knows us!

But for right now, until that completeness, we have three things to do to lead us toward that consummation: Trust steadily in God, hope unswervingly, love extravagantly. And the best of the three is love.

How amazing would it be to consistently love someone like that passage explains. I am thankful for the last 18 years being married to Kevin. I look forward to walking through many more situations with him...laughing,praying,running,crying and anticipating.

Turtle Truth

I know...cheesy name - but what else do you call a blog centered around a turtle? This 'happening' has actually stuck with me for a while - and maybe just maybe you'll laugh with me - or quite possibly be encouraged today by this silly blog.

A while back my sweet husband and I were out for an early Saturday morning date. We were driving to get some breakfast when we saw the sweetest little turtle trying to cross a busy road. Of course we had to get him!!! I can't bear the thought of those turtles getting run over. Little known fact about me??? I simply love turtles. I also love tortoises. One day...I will have one. For now, I settle for the occasional found turtle. Anyway, we rescued this little turtle who lived as a member of the Johnson family for about 2 weeks. I think rescued is a funny word to use when you think that we literally picked him up - disturbing his walk - only to place him in a large box as his new home with brief walks given to him daily. ANYWAY....Max loved this turtle and for some reason named him Jim the Turtle. It worked for him. He loved Jim - but Jim was not happy living with us and we could not find anything he wanted or would eat- so eventually, we all agreed we would have to let him go. When Max would take him out for walks before school, we would put him the yard and he would start to book across the grass.....only to be picked up by a 10 year old placing him right back by the walk way where he started. He never made any real gain....but he would keep booking it each time he was placed in that yard! It was funny.

On Jim's last day with us, we decided to take a few pictures so we could remember what a great turtle he was. Very social - never shrinking into his shell to avoid us. Sweet - just a great turtle!! As I began taking pictures - I noticed that Jim was determined to get out of his box. He really thought he could get out all by himself. At first - I sat and watched as he rose up and just looked over the box that sat inside his larger box. (Max was trying to make him a bedroom)




It was funny to me that he just stood there on his little legs. It kind of cracked me up. So I took a picture of his little face.

And Jim seemed to have much determination - he began to scratch his little feet against the box and try with all of his might to climb over the side of that box! Those little turtle legs were moving! First the scratching with the right leg....


Then the left leg went into action....



And then soon - he had some real progress!!! I was shocked at this little guy!I was cheering for him!!






And then......he made it!!! But...there he sat. Not one bit closer to being out of that box. Instead....he found a bigger, higher wall to face.



If you are like me - I sometimes find myself in the same situation that Jim landed in. I'll scratch and climb over one wall...only to find I am facing an even bigger one! But the lesson in this turtle truth is that we should still fight like crazy to get over the wall - never be satisfied or stop working toward something better if you know it's out there. It takes courage, determination, and belief that a better day is coming.

I Corinthians 15:58
Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.

Are you ready for some football????

I love this time of year! Not that I am huge fan of football itself. But, I am a huge fan of friends and gatherings and tailgating in general. So fun! If you know me even a little bit, you are probably familiar with the fact that my house will never turn down company or a party! So tonight is fun in our house for two reasons. One, my husband has his official NFL Fantasy Football draft. He takes this very seriously along with the other men that play with him. Now, this group of men started as a small group of a church we attended a few years back. All in the name of men's ministry right? Well, they all became friends and they are still playing years later. They literally gather in a room and have draft drawings, trading and so on. All I know is that every Packer accessory we have is packed in Kevin's car to be used tonight to decorate 'his area'. I love this for him!

Tonight for me will be the Spain Park Jamboree. Our son Scout will play for the first time as a highschooler. He is a wide receiver on the Freshman team and he is psyched! Here is his game face...


Cute face....


This was his first 'wear your jersey' to school moment. I am sure it was a good morning. And while I am excited for him, I prayed for my oldest today as he went to school without his football jersey today. He's played football since 6th grade and has loved it. This past year, at the end of his junior year, he decided not to play anymore. Though he had a fun 'free' summer of no practice - he felt a twinge of sadness this morning. His best buds still in their jerseys today....and he's not. I know he made the right decision for him - but I also know what he felt today and will feel tonight at that first kick off. Say a prayer for boy if you don't mind. Actually say a prayer for both Scout and Nick. Scout - that he plays well and stays safe. Nick, that he has joy and confidence in his decision and that its not as hard as I imagine it might be. Oh...a mama's heart.

Earlier this week I blogged about the first week of school but had lost Max's picture. Well, here it is! Better late than never. Oh...check out the shoes. Max has never asked for anything in particular when it comes to shoes - but this year...he wanted Vanns. How fun for me.....kicking it old school....back to the 80s and my day!


Is he not cute? He may look 10 years old...but his wit is years beyond 10. He cracks us up! Thank you God.

When a song speaks to you

Do you ever hear a song and just feel that 'Oh man...that's me' feeling? I am so preoccupied with one song as of late. I love the lyrics. I love the portion of the song that says...in every season....because there are so many season to all of our lives. In every season....the full, the dry, the hard, the bountiful....there is a reason to sing. This song is an encouragement to me to sew into lives of others because of all of those who have sewn into mine - for such a time as this.

The Desert Song

This is my prayer in the desert
When all that's within me feels dry
This is my prayer in my hunger and need
My God is the God who provides

This is my prayer in the fire
And weakness or trial or pain
There is faith proved more worth than gold
So refine me lord through the faith

I will bring praise
I will bring praise
No weapon formed against me shall remain

I will rejoice
I will declare
God is my victory and he is here

This is my prayer in the battle
When triumph is still on its way
I am a conquerer and co-heir with Christ
So fill my his promise ill stand

I will bring praise
I will bring praise
No weapon formed against me shall remain

I will rejoice
I will declare
God is my victory and he is here

All of my life
In every season
You are still God
I have reason to sing
I have a reason to worship

All of my life
In every season
You are still God
I have reason to sing
I have a reason to worship

All of my life
In every season
You are still God
I have a reason to sing
I have reason to worship

All of my life
In every season
You are still God
I have a reason to sing
I have a reason to worship

I will bring praise
I will bring praise
No weapon formed against me shall remain

I will rejoice
I will declare
God is my victory and he is here

And this is my prayer in the harvest
And favor and provence flow
I know I'm filled to be emptied again
The seed I've received I will sow

You can listen to the whole song here....http://www.tangle.com/view_video?viewkey=e9a972fbcb51e52f791c

What seen can you sew today?

A New School Year

Well, I am a bit late with the whole first day of school picture thing! They've been in school for an entire week now. At least I did take pictures on that first day...I just didn't share them with anyone. So...for my mom and others that keep up with my blog....wait no longer.....here are the handsome boys of my house on our first day.


Max was so excited. (I can't find his pic right now...when I do...I'll add it! LOL) Typical 3rd child situation. HA! Anyway, he loves being in 5th grade. I'm a bit sad mind you....I can't believe we'll soon leave the school that has been a part of our lives for the last 12 years beginning with Nick. Seriously, this school has been a blessing. Filled with Christ loving teachers and teachers who just plain love their jobs and our kids. So blessed! Speaking of being blessed - Mr. Chaffin has driven the school bus that picks up outside our house ever since Nick was in 1st grade. After he got to know Nick - he truly looked forward to welcoming Scout on his first day of K5 and then Max. With Max he simply opened the door on the first day of school and said, "Well, little buddy...its about time!". Made my day just a bit better back then....so seeing him on the first day of my baby's last first day of elementary school...(did you follow that??)...was a welcome sight.



My handsome teenagers....

It was kind of an odd feeling watching Scout jump in the truck with Nick. Not needing me to take him to school...HIGH SCHOOL on the first day! I remember my first day of high school. And...if I remember it correctly, I rode with my friend Tonya and her dad took us. We were soooooo nervous going inside - but we did it together! Scout rode with his brother - went to breakfast with some other seniors....and they thoroughly enjoyed having a Freshman around, then met up with his bud where they entered the school to tackle their first day. I hear overall...it was a good day. I love these boys and am so proud of the young men they are becoming.

At the beginning of each school year I ask God what specifically I can pray for over each of my boys. I ask him to be specific with me. I can think of alot of things to pray...but I want to hear straight from God what my kids need. I want the holy spirit to quicken my heart each time one of my kids needs encouragement, joy, strength...whatever! My heart grows heavy when I think of what their generation is faced with daily. Some people say things are the same as they were when I was in school but I disagree entirely. I did not have near the pressure my teenagers have. Don't get me wrong...I had my share of trouble - but it certainly came with less consequences than the trouble of today's kids. My thoughts anyway. So as I was praying this summer - I was drawn time and again to the book of Colossians.

Colossians 2 in particular....read this;

Colossians 2: 1-7
I want you to know how much I am struggling for you and for those at Laodicea, and for all who have not met me personally. My purpose is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. I tell you this so that no one may deceive you by fine-sounding arguments. For though I am absent from you in body, I am present with you in spirit and delight to see how orderly you are and how firm your faith in Christ is.

So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.

My desire for my children as well as others is that they are encouraged in heart, unity and LOVE.....that they know the fullness of God, that they are complete in understanding how much God loves them so that anything...ANYTHING that would tempt them to stray or water down their convictions will not hold a candle to what they know to be true and real with their God. That are rooted in their faith, firmly. When I read the book of Colossians, I can just feel Paul's struggle for a church and group of people that he loves dearly. He loved them so much he was overwhelmed with how he wanted God's best and God's joy for them. And he sees how the enemy is working against them.

Now that my oldest is a senior I see year after year how prayer is THE MOST important thing I can offer my kids. I can buy them clothes....and can make sure they have friends and are social.....but if I don't pray for them I am missing opportunities to help protect and guide them as only God can...as I listen to his leading. Something else that I feel strongly about is taking prayer walks around their schools. Praying over the campus and for what they may encounter. Praying over their teachers - classmates - friends - lunch time - conversation - tailgating - anything that comes to mind. Just praying - offering up a petition of protection and favor over my kids and their friends.
My encouragement to you is to pray....keep journals of your prayers over your children and then take time to thank God for all he's done in the lives of your children as you see those prayers answered. When you see all the times you've been protected from crazy situations - recognize that as the hand of God...not just coincidence. This doesn't mean your kids will never stray, nor does it mean that you'll never experience heartache. Believe me. But what it does mean - is that when things happen -you have the benefit of knowing God is there and you've seen him work in the lives of your kids before...and he'll do it again. He will. The past few years have had both great and pretty crazy times for us. But through each - I've seen God's hand and felt his love carry me through all sorts of things. I love journaling for that reason alone - being reminded of the many ways God is faithful.



"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" Philippians 4:6-7

Time Flies.......

Wow! I guess the summer has flown by faster than I thought, because its been well over a month since I've blogged about ANYTHING. There have been so many fun things...and so many life lesson situations that could have made great blogs, but here I am...over a month since the last post....and I wonder where to start.

After we met my sweet niece, Addie Grace, in Nashville - we hit the floor running with summer activities. Nick and Scout went to summer youth camp in Florida and Max went to summer camp that same week. It was awesome for all 3 boys. Awesome for me and Kevin too! Home alone was great....quiet....but GREAT! Here is a picture of Max from his summer camp week. Do I even need to mention that he came back smelling....well...like a 10 year old boy?


I like this one. This is when I was about to leave. The fake mustache, glasses thing? Well, that is something he thought would entertain the ladies. Not kidding.... He did not get that from Kevin, thank goodness.


Soon after we all got home...and settled back into a routine, the call that I have been dreading finally arrived. It was a little after 6am on Friday morning, July 17.
My sweet Nana had passed away. I think I'll remember that date forever. Many of you have been praying for my family since February when my Nana first went into the hospital. She spent the months following that incident in nursing homes and rehab centers. Its been a long 5 months to say the least. But as prepared as I thought I was, the words my father spoke just kind of went in one ear and out the other. And I just sat there and thanked him for calling. I think I asked how my mother was....but I don't remember alot after that. Kevin was there for me and did everything he could do to make me feel better. We woke the kids up and told them one by one and they each had their own reactions. And though we all respond so differently to things like this....we were all just sad.

I was fortunate enough to have a few hours to myself that day. And in those hours, I allowed myself to cry. Uncontrollably at times - and then laugh....and then cry some more. It felt good to do all that too. Believe me. It would be right when I would think there were no more tears to cry...that I would find just a few more.

That night, a sweet friend brought dinner to my family and we ate together at my mom's house. We talked about Nana and laughed alot too. Then of course....we'd cry some more. The following days were filled with funeral planning....and then the funeral on that following Monday. The 4 days of Nana's passing, funeral planning and then the funeral seemed to go by so fast. Its almost been a month and in some ways I just can't believe she's gone. I think it will be that way for a while. But I am so thankful for the friends that reached out to us during that time. We felt the love. My entire family did. Thank you so much to all of you! You know who you are. :)

I have a couple of great thoughts that I want to blog about at a later time. But I feel so behind on my blogging right now....that each post would be WAY long if I wrote everything I was thinking. I'll save some thoughts for another time....and another night when I am not trying to get back into the swing of routine. Like I said in the beginning....the time flies...and my summer is over and the kids are going back to school.

In the middle of the chaos, and the loss we've experienced, I've been reminded how good God is. How amazing living life can be. And...how thankful I am to be blessed with friends and family that love me so. Life is good, even if I'm never, ever going to be caught up on my laundry. Amen?

And in the midst of the sadness, there has been MUCH to thank God for as well. God has been doing great things inside me as well as others within my family. I am humbled and amazed watching God work within me and those around me. I am so thankful for all he is doing. I guess there really is a season for everything. God's timing is beautiful.

Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the LORD.
Psalm 1:24

Adoption and being a child of God

Many of you know that my Brother/Sister in law recently adopted a precious baby from China. When I say precious....I mean Precious. Kissable and totally adorable. We have been praying for her arrival for over 3 years now. To finally hold her this past weekend was crazy. Surreal for sure....but oh so special. The kids were very excited about meeting their new cousin as well. They enjoyed holding and playing with Addie as well.

You can see here...that she already loves her big cousins;


When Ken, Kelly and Alec were in China, they were able to visit the province where Addie was born and they received lots of personal information on Addie as well. Part of Addie's story is heartbreaking. She was found abandoned and alone at a train station when she was only a day old. Can you imagine? Abandoning your child? Or even finding out that was your beginning as a baby? Both situations are hard to comprehend. While we can't imagine leaving our child at a train station - I doubt any of us can conceive the living conditions in China and how they dictate to our families how we can live and the children we can raise within our families. However, that is the way our Addie began her little life.

Within the last year, we have prayed over this little girl. Not knowing her name or seeing a face - but knowing there was a baby out there that Ken and Kelly would soon be a mommy and daddy to. Early on, Ken and Kelly asked us to pray that she was held,was healthy, loved on, cared for and even for the birth mother. God was totally in control. He took care of this little girl and she was found at that train station and placed in a foster home. She was loved on and cared for, just like we prayed. She is now, safe at home....in a cozy bed....a long way away from being abandoned at the train station. Here is a snap shot of Addie's cozy bed.

When God blesses....he blesses big.


Ever since I heard how Addie was originally found and thinking about where she is now....I can't help but to compare that to us. I mean - we are all adopted as Christians. I love 1 John 3:1 and how it describes us as Children of God.

How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!

It doesn't matter where we've been....where we were left or where we have been living. God calls to us through his love and gift of Jesus Christ - we can all find adoption into his family. And he blesses and cares for us more than we could ever imagine. He loves us that much. As much as I know Ken, Kelly and Alec will love Addie....God loves her even more. That's a whole lot of love!
Please continue to pray for this little girl as she bonds with her new family. Pray that she grows in the grace of our Lord and feels loved and cared for every day of her life. Pray that when she is old enough to learn of her story that she will see God's amazing hand in her life and how he loves and cares for her every need.

Romans 8:10-16 (The Message)

9-11But if God himself has taken up residence in your life, you can hardly be thinking more of yourself than of him. Anyone, of course, who has not welcomed this invisible but clearly present God, the Spirit of Christ, won't know what we're talking about. But for you who welcome him, in whom he dwells—even though you still experience all the limitations of sin—you yourself experience life on God's terms. It stands to reason, doesn't it, that if the alive-and-present God who raised Jesus from the dead moves into your life, he'll do the same thing in you that he did in Jesus, bringing you alive to himself? When God lives and breathes in you (and he does, as surely as he did in Jesus), you are delivered from that dead life. With his Spirit living in you, your body will be as alive as Christ's!

12-14So don't you see that we don't owe this old do-it-yourself life one red cent. There's nothing in it for us, nothing at all. The best thing to do is give it a decent burial and get on with your new life. God's Spirit beckons. There are things to do and places to go!

15-17This Resurrection life you received from God is not a timid, grave-tending life. It's adventurously expectant, greeting God with a childlike "What's next, Papa?" God's Spirit touches our spirits and confirms who we really are. We know who he is, and we know who we are: Father and children. And we know we are going to get what's coming to us—an unbelievable inheritance! We go through exactly what Christ goes through. If we go through the hard times with him, then we're certainly going to go through the good times with him!

Was it this hot when I was a kid?

I love summer and the heat! Really.....I love being home and sitting in the sun for a while each day. I will admit however, that as I age....I realize my skin does not enjoy the sun as much as I do. I am now beginning to see these glorious dark spots on my face. The telling signs of days gone by that were filled with baby-oil and iodine days. Maybe some butter occasionally while laying out on the roof or the hot drive way back in the day! Oh well....glad I get a new body when I get to heaven. Hope that includes the skin too! LOL

Anyway, as I was saying, I love summer days. I remember playing outside all day long and my mom hollering for us to come in! Those were the best. We didn't stay inside all day because there was 'nothing' to do inside. All the fun....was outside with our pals. The ADVENTURE was outside. What does a parent do when their kids do not want to find the adventure? Seriously. Its my own opinion that we must make them find joy in 'the adventure' and do something different. Turn off the TVs for a day. For a week. Whatever - just get them off the couch. Make your teenager play battleship with you. We've had some great conversations that come out of nowhere just because the time is there. Or you could allow them a couple of choices. The choices I offered my 17 year old this week was do you want to do something fun outside with your brothers or do you want to do more yard work for me? Either way....its totally your decision is what I told him. I was delighted when he chose the play with your brothers option. They've ended up playing Nerf, shooting the paintball guns and eventually ended up at the $1 movie theater that night. It was a good day.

When we take time to do something that involves participation with another person and not just computer/Xbox/TV interaction we get relational. And that is a good thing. Speaking of being relational and unplugging from the computer, I recently got back from a great trip to St. Maartin with my husband and our Aunt, Uncle and Cousin. It was a dream vacation for sure! Here are a few pictures from our week. Just a few - I'm going to try and post a new slide show for the front page of my blog that should have more!

This is me and Kevin at Sunset Bar & Grill watching the planes come in...



This is a group shot after one of our adventures driving the back roads. Steve told us this was Robert Redford's House...I need to google to check out the facts. I'll let you know what I find! LOL


This is Orient Beach. A favorite shot - and the beach really was this pretty.


Like I said...only a few shots but some of our favs. Though it was hot on the island, there was a perfect breeze pretty much 24/7 every day. It was glorious. Maybe if I moved to St. Maartin my kids would find more adventure each day because of that perfect breeze. Its worth a shot. I mean, do what you got to do right? Ha! Well, I guess my other option is to keep the battleship game out and find more creative, manipulative ways to convince my kids to spend time together. Actually....that sounds like more fun anyway.

Philippians 4:4-7
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Adeline Grace Johnson is here!

Ok...well she's not here as in the USA, but she is in her mother's arms now. We praise God for this little girl. She is a beautiful wide eyed little girl and I hear she is curious about everything....especially her mom's necklace. I can only imagine the sweetness in the moment that they gave that little girl to Kelly. I wish I could have been there. Wow! Kelly seems to be adapting amazingly quick, Ken holding her is joy and Alec....looks like the best big brother in the world. Seriously....what a protector he is going to be! Here are some pictures of the Gotcha Day in China. However, click here for Kelly's blog where you can read about their sweet journey and see more precious pictures.

First Family Photo



First Bath...so cute!


I love how God's timing is perfect. When we wait.....he says "hang on...it will be worth it". They waited 3 years and 3 months to the day for this little girl. Last year, I remember the waiting feeling very long for them. In fact....it was around the summer of last year. We all wondered when it would finally get here...their call about an adoption referral and travel date. When they finally got the call this spring, the birth date of the baby stunned them both. Adeline Grace was born on Kelly's birthday during the summer. God knew the day...the time...he was not worried...he knew it was happening and it was in his hands. How sweet to know that when they were wishing and hoping....God allowed Addie to be born on Kelly's birthday and he chose Addie specifically for Kelly, Ken and Alec. I imagine him literally thinking - This baby is for Kelly she's waited a while for you little one, let's give her the best birthday present ever today. You. We'll tell her in just a bit....but she'll always know, that I was thinking of her and her desires to be a mom.

Now, those are my thoughts and they may seem odd. But the God I know and love....is crazy about us. He wants to shower us with joy and gifts. He loves us that much. He is a good, good God.

I love this passage from Matthew speaking about seeking for God....and finding him. There is a reference to God's ability to give good gifts. Why is it sometimes so hard for us to grasp that God loves us sooo much that he will delight in doing good for us. Better than we can imagine. I mean, if we think we give good things to our children.....if that is our measure - God's ability is so much more than that. So much greater! I know I've seen that first hand in my own life. I am so thankful.

Matthew 7: 7-12

7"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. 8For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.
9"Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? 10Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? 11If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him! 12So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets

My family is in China!!!

Many of you have been praying for Ken, Kelly, Alec and their wait for adopting a sweet baby girl. Well...they are in China now and will get to hold their baby girl tomorrow morning. I wanted to thank you for lifting them up in prayer, but also show you a few pics from their trip so far! Please visit my Sister-in-laws blog for daily updates.

All I know is that tomorrow morning, I will log on and see my niece, Addie Grace for the first time with her family. I cannot wait!!!!!!

Here are some great pictures of their sight seeing while in Bejing, China.

Ken and Kelly at the Great Wall


My nephew climbing the Great Wall. What an experience for him!



This is a picture of their family at the top! Wow!!!

A New Creation......explained perfectly, in my little opinion.

I am so looking forward to church today. My dear friend Laura is getting baptized. I am so honored to be able to visit her church this morning and experience this moment with her. Truly its a privilege.

I met Laura in October of 2005. We began working together in November of 2005. God truly blessed me with an amazing friend when he put us together. In some ways, we could not be more different - but in other ways....we are sewn together for life! Bottom line...I love her and am so thankful for her. She has taught me so much about authenticity in the Christian Life. She does not pretend, nor does she ever aim to just 'say the right things' that some Christians have learned to do over the years. If she hears something about God that she doesn't necessarily understand....or comprehend, she says it. She wrestles with it. She digs to know and learn more. When she experiences something wonderful from God - she is giddy. She totally excites in the joy of the Lord. In fact...at times she just gushes and will seriously share it with everyone she knows.


True story - She came to a point in her Christian walk where she realized a few things she had not taken to heart before. ( I hope this does not embarrass my friend...but seriously, I think she would share this with you on her own. After all -- she wanted to put this in her baptism video to be shown at her church. However, the videographer, encouraged her to leave that part out. He doesn't know our Laura so well does he? Anyway.....) So...she came to a point when she seriously started learning what the bible had to say about sex. I will never forget her astonishment, like...'Can you believe this?' She then began to very boldly share that with others....in bars....in the workplace....in fact, anytime she felt someone would listen she would literally feel free to share with them what sex was really intended to be. I love that in her. She shares her heart with no pretense. She's authentic. How many times have you felt led to say something...or share something you learned about God and fear held you back? Why does that happen? Seriously....talk to Laura....she can give you a kick in the pants!

All of this to say, that I read her blogpost last night about her baptism and I would love for you to read it. Click here for her blog - or you can click on the link to the right titled - This Ain't No Ordinary Fundraising Letter. Yep...she's going on her second mission trip this summer. Don't worry - she doesn't need anymore money....just click and read...and enjoy her posts. Wherever you are....whatever you've done or not done - God's love is for you and he never stops loving nor does he ever Go away. We go away...we move away from God and lose sight of his goodness, but he stays the same.

2 Corinthians 5:16 - 17
So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!

Firsts and Lasts

Ok....its officially over. The school year that is. Today was the last day and it could not have gone smoother. I remember a few tears from Nick's last day of 8th grade.....but I am sure he does not remember that.

Last night -we totally did not have 'typical' bedtime time. In fact we watched Australia until a little after 11:00pm. We then proceeded to try and find an 11th grade chemistry book (which i wrote a $47 check for today).....obviously we did not find it! But how funny...down to the end with a bit of drama. But this morning was great. I made breakfast and we talked about the year a bit. They were all a bit excited and reflective in their own ways.

Scout - a bit nervous about summer football camp at the high school and then finally becoming a Freshman!

Max - was already missing his buds, and THE BEST TEACHER ON EARTH as he said, Ms. Howell. In fact...he hopes she decides to teach 5th grade next year!

Nick - Just ready to get those finals over and enjoy some summer. He can't believe he doesn't have summer football camp this year. He's not playing his senior year...so he's looking forward to something.....just not sure what!


So...as I'm thinking of this being their last day.... I couldn't help but think of the first day of school. This is the picture I took of them back in August.



I love how everyone is alert....ready for school in their favorite clothes. T-shirts are a staple at my house. Comfort....also key!

Now....9 months later.....they've grown and changed.

Max, proudly wearing his Safety Patrol belt one last day to school before the new school year begins. He's been 'in training' for 2 weeks now. He said he had a great hair day today. Hmmmm, I wonder where he has heard that phrase before? I'll shatter his world with a haircut soon. Its what I do.....


Scout on his Facebook before school...which is typically a no-no..but on last day of school? Anything goes! We even had french toast with powdered sugar....yes....I forgot about the teacher's sanity today.


This is Scout walking to the Bus Stop this morning....FOR THE LAST TIME!!!! He'll ride with Nick next year and will then drive or ride carpool his Sophomore year. I just realized this.....I may cry now.....


And then we have Nick.....you can't see the gray and black gym shorts or the flip flops that totally make this T-Shirt POP. He wanted to leave a fashion statement on this last day...HA! What I do love is his shirt. 'I survived 5th Grade' and on the back are several signatures from his 5th grade class that he still goes to school with. Kind of funny....a bit vintage!


So, all of this to say that we've had a big year...in many ways. We'll look back on this school year for time to come with some new found knowledge that will make us better parents, make our kids better kids....and a better family all the way around. Though it was not a perfect year - and there were times I wish we could have had do-overs. But at the same time....we've seen God show up, again and again and show his love for us. We'll now enjoy a great summer......and do it all over again, wiser...hopefully smarter in some cases and with an attitude of thankfulness for this amazing life we share.

Psalm 90:12

Teach us to number our days aright,
that we may gain a heart of wisdom.

And this week.........

This week is quickly coming to an end and I am smiling big. So looking forward to the weekend. But in all, this week has not been bad, just a regular busy week. My husband and I talked this week and we realized that yes....April and May are always busy. Always. There is usually something to celebrate at the boys schools (all 3 of them) and you can typically add a track banquet, football banquet, Scout Blue and Gold banquet etc, etc....you get the picture. Well, this week we started off with spirit week at Max's school where each day holds a new theme. I loved Tacky Day.....


This was Max's version of tacky day. Believe it or not....but seriously, this took us an hour the night before looking for just the right combination. The only thing not pictured here is the hunting hat lined with fur that seemed to set the look off just right for Max. You'll just have to imagine that for yourself.

Tuesday, I was blessed to be able to see Scout receive a few awards at his Middle School. I cannot believe he is going into high school next year. I am so proud of him. He is the type of student that works so hard. Truly....he works for what he receives. He is diligent with homework and projects and all of those things matter so much to him.

This is Scout receiving his final award of the morning - his Junior Membership into the Beta Club. That was right after he had his induction to the National Junior Honor Society.

Such a cutie!


And in addition to those fun things....we are hosting the Regions Charity Classic at my hotel this week. Always so much fun! Here are some fun pics....



And here are the people we followed for a majority of the day Wednesday. This is my boss and my client from Atlanta. Was a great day. They did quite well.....didn't win, but they were close! This picture was actually taken after my client got a birdie on this hole. Did I say that right....sounds really funny....




Fun stuff.....and after all of this week, I truly hear His word ringing in my ears....

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. Colossians 3:23-24

I hope I do that....as a mom, wife, sales person and friend. To work at those roles with all my heart. Because essentially....its Christ we serve through every little thing we do. So...to quote my friend Jenny today....why not jump right in...and just do it with all your heart. Why not???


Lord, thank you for all that you have blessed me with. The kids and their schools, the chaos and schedules. Thank you for my friends....how they bless my life and make even golf tournaments fun.....thank you for my job and how it provides and adds to my life. Thank you Lord for being so good.

Peighton Bailey is one today!

Officially, my sweet niece is now 1 year old. I can't believe it. Seriously!!!! What a blessing she is...in so many, many ways. We celebrated BIG on Saturday for such a little girl. We laughed alot too....mostly at anything remotely cute that little girl did. Here are some fun pics of the party...and our gushing over her. My three boys were amazingly loved by their Mema and Papa....still are. But there is something about having this little girl around that makes us all, (my boys included) crazy and silly when she is near! I really can't believe that my youngest is 10...and that my oldest will be a senior next year. And Scout.....gulp...will enter highschool next year. Crazy....

My daddy made her this sweet little chair. Her initials monogrammed too!


This made me laugh - no real reason...just struck me as funny


And if you wonder if she enjoyed diving into her cake.....

Yes...she most certainly did!

Psalm 127:3

Don't you see that children are God's best gift?

Ahhhh Friday......

I have no idea where this weekend will take you, but I can say with great enthusiasm...I am ecstatic that it is not taking me too far! We've had a busy couple of weeks so I look forward to having down time at home and a few family get togethers as well. Kevin wants to take the boys to see Star Trek tonight...I am more than good with that. I will enjoy a night with myself. Maybe a glass of wine and a movie only females can enjoy. I'm not sure....but whatever I do....it will be a me night.

Tomorrow, I'll be at my sister's house celebrating my sweet niece's first birthday. I can't believe it. I am so thankful for how she has changed all of our lives. That little girl may never know the wondrous miracle she has performed.....just by being the little girl God created her to be. Simply Precious. So...with that said....I am using my right to brag as the Aunt of one of the most adorable girls ever. (I'll have to share with you soon about Addie Grace!!! I have another niece arriving from China early June....more information soon coming in another blog!)

Anyway...here are some downright adorable pics from when I kept Peighton after the wedding. I loved all over this little thing....and then....after a mere 48 hours...became exhausted....and thought, I love that I can love her...squeeze her...then give her back! Whew....But we did just fine. We had 4 fun days with her and each one was wonderful.

OK...we had just finished her sweet potatoes and she was so sweet...I had to get a picture!


She has 'Aunt Shannon's' Sass....


ADORABLE


I like this one...because it shows my LACK of reading material for little girls. I need to get on that one....this is not acceptable for my prissy girl!


Whatever you do this weekend...have fun and enjoy your mom and the other moms around you! Happy Mother's Day!!!

Lots of Updates.....I've been away....

Wow! The last post I have is from a few weeks ago when Nick was in Mexico. In case you are wondering....yes, he made it home! It was amazing to see how this trip affected him. To put it in his words, "I've never done anything that important in my life". He truly felt and saw that his actions that week had helped to change some one's life forever. He loved being outside and working on a house for a family in need. He truly loved being at an orphanage one of the days too. He told us a few times about the children jumping on him and how they wanted him to paint their face like a tiger. He smiled BIG telling us of his experiences. We are so thankful for that experience in his life. I can't wait to see how God will use that in his life later on. For now, he wants to go back as soon as he can. He literally CANNOT wait for another opportunity.

This was our first Easter without Nick and that was really weird. But, because of unplanned circumstances, our family from Nashville joined us! It was wonderful! Here is a picture of my sweet Nana Sunday afternoon. She couldn't make it to church with us, but she loved us visiting in the afternoon. To be so close to death only a few months ago....she is has some amazing days now. She doesn't feel this good every day - but we were so thankful Easter Sunday was a good day. It was so nice being with her that day. She's still a way fun Nana, and laughed and enjoyed her great grandchildren to the fullest!



The week after Easter, my sister got married. It was a BEAUTIFUL wedding. Jennifer and Vince had one of the sweetest weddings I have ever seen. Along with traditional vows, they spoke their own words to each other. My sister has always been a writer - so she had a speech for Vince - and it was perfect. I loved that she took the time to tell him how she felt about him and the difference he had made in her life. Before the ceremony, she said that she thought maybe she should cut it short that people didn't want to hear all her stuff. I told her that it was her wedding and she should say what she wants to say. Its her wedding day! And she did....and it was great. The entire wedding was that way. It was very Jenny and Vince - and they enjoyed it together. Awesome day. Here are a few pictures.


Jen and her sweet Peighton. Peighton's dress was adorable! My mom bought it for Easter...and The Wedding!

My mother in law decorated the cake, the arch on the wall and the entire room...not enough space to post all the pics!



I will say that I experienced Acts Chapter 2 in a big way during the wedding. What do I mean? The church that I am a part of is called a2 in response of Acts chapter 2. This is a wonderful portion of that chapter.


The Fellowship of the Believers
They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles. All the believers were together and had everything in common. Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need. Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.

Since becoming a part of this church, that scripture has meant more to me than ever before. Well, during the planning of my sister's wedding, I was in need - and my community came to my aid. Seriously. They saw I had need and offered. I did not have to beg....or seek hard. My community was just there to help. For instance, I was catering the food - My friends Julie and Becky were there to make sure it happened and took care of everything that Saturday. They literally worked from 10am until 6pm, preparing, serving and cleaning. No complaints - smiled and were genuinely excited to do the whole thing! My girl Julie dropped her kids off that morning and picked them up after the wedding and enjoyed a whole 2 hours of rest...before going to the airport to pick up her husband and son. They had been in Mexico with Nick for that entire week before! What a week for everyone!

My friend, Becky's girls were there to take care of my niece and help with cutting the cake and greeting guests. They were amazing! Simply amazing. My niece Peighton didn't cry for her mommie (the bride) one time. She had a great day with Kelsie! We were so grateful. Emily could go into wedding planning one day herself. She was great! This teenage girl cut and served the entire grooms cake with ease!


Our friend David Jacks offered to do a video and pictures for my sisters wedding at no cost. Who does that? A friend who loves you...that is who! He and Kevin worked together on pictures and video to make sure the day would remembered for years to come. I cannot say enough how amazing that is!

My mother in law called the week of the wedding. She was sharing how she didn't think she could make it for my birthday...so she wanted to come down that week to see us. The week of my sister's wedding. Ok...this is where God put icing on the cake for us - I believe the Lord holds all things in his hand. All things. And that every little thing we are concerned with is important to God. Ok...so as I'm listening to my mother in law, I begin to think...oh, this means she will be here when my sister is getting married - and she is AN AMAZING FLORIST! What a brilliant change in plans! So, all of the sudden...we had a professional florist to decorate the cake and the reception area. The flowers were beautiful. Kathy really is amazing....and she blessed us all so much.

If that were not enough - I made a request for serving pieces - My neighbor supplied me with beautiful silver serving pieces that day and there were several other friends who offered as well. I needed linen - my wonderful hotel supplied that without cost. My friend allowed us to use his coffee urns, a friend at work brought an outfit for me to wear because there was NO TIME to shop! Amazing.... and when the wedding was over, I sat back and thought, How blessed it is to have a community of friends who are there. It was my sister - not theirs....but love her as if she was. Have you heard of anything like that before. They gave of themselves out of love for me. It was love like God loves. That selfless love.

John 3:16-18

"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God's one and only Son

Oh....and in case I forget to update you on a few more little items.... Scout is enjoying Spring Trainin for Freshman football team next year. For our family that is out of state - he's grown about 6 inches this year! He remains our loud...but amazingly soft and tender hearted son. I look forward to what God is going to do with him during these teenage years. Max is ECSTATIC to have made the Safety Patrol Group at his school. 5th grade will be awesome for him! He says he has the 'hot spot' right outside the library. Its a big deal if you go to his school I hear. LOL Kevin is loving his jukebox and his 45 collection. Just picture it. The jukebox lives in our kitchen where we enjoy it every day....seriously. Nick is working hard on his grades....looks like I am buying a Martin Guitar this May. And me? Well, I'm 40 now...and love it. Thank you to all of you who make my life full of good things! I have been blessed.