Welcome, whether you are here by chance, circumstance, or just because you stopped by, I am so glad you are here! Blogging is a new experience for me, so I thought it appropriate to begin with the ending of 2010 and beginning of 2011.
The year 2010 was a year of many circumstances for our family. I hesitate as I begin to share experiences with you.
Sickness...Wow, February brought the lovely visit of the most wicked stomach virus or stomach flu we have ever had in our home. That is definitely one visitor that wore out its welcome!
Spring brought the preparation of ACSI Accreditation Team to Cornerstone Academy. As PTF Chairman, my primary involvement was to coordinate hospitality for the team and make their stay as comfortable as possible. Thanks to my great co-chair Kelly Lynam, we were over the top and received many compliments. It was an awesome experience and I met several neat people through this event. Congratulations to Cornerstone Academy for receiving a 7 year accreditation! I am thankful to have been involved with committed teachers and staff that educate my daughter everyday. Dan Peterson and Chasity Galyon are a model leadership team. Hats off to the two of you!
LOSS....Heartbreaking losses in our family! So hard to explain , as our family lost both young and old. It was a tough Spring and has been a long journey this year for so many loved ones. Friends suffering illness , pain and loss in their families. Dear friends sending their son/brother off to Aphganistan. It seemed for a couple of months that each time the phone rang, I just wanted to press ignore. My relationship with my Savior became so close as I found myself seeking Him earnestly in prayer. He brought me back to Him in such a personal way. I found a close and personal time to seek Him everyday , all through the day! PRAYER is such a strong word and should not be taken lightly.
BLESSING......a trip with Hannah and several classes from Cornerstone to Historical Williamsburg. A special time of fellowship and new friendships!
A much needed vacation to the neatest resort in Alabama on Weiss Lake, complete down time, fishing, sitting by the lake, boat rides, paddle boat with Hannah each morning watching the sun rise over the lake, coffee on the porch with my dad, and watching the sun set over the lake with the greatest parents and my family. Peace, unbelievable peace! God's beauty; phenomenal !
Camping at Harrell Park with the greatest friends. Thanks for sharing your annual Memorial Day celebration with us! Lots of food, laughter, and fun!
Celebration......Cody graduates!!!!! What a journey the past 10 years brought to our lives. Homeschooling had its many challenges but as I look back, I would never trade that time with my son! It was a learning experience for the both of us and I'm glad we walked that path together. The ceremony was just like Cody; simple. We had a small celebration with close friends and family. Amy, our dear friend, said a few words to Cody and then the fun began as we looked at photos that my friend Denise had so graciously put together. Thanks to all who were there to share this special day. :)
The twins, Stewart and Silas, turn 1!!! What a celebration that was, as we are so blessed to have these little ones. It was a long and trying year, as they were 2 months premature. It was such a fun day to celebrate the lives of these boys with family!
Challenge.....Cody moves to Nashville to continue his education. August brought the first day of class at NADC. No words can describe the heartfelt emotions for both mom and Cody. A whole new chapter in my, now adult, son's life; living alone in his own apartment, responsibility, school ( in a classroom, no less), and accountability. Separation anxiety took on a whole new meaning!
Hi Ho its back to school we go! Unbelievable how time flew by on summer break. Back in the routine and (sort of normal) day to day functions. Nothing in our lives can ever be described as "normal". I mean really, how many of you can say your days are "normal", what is "normal" , do any of us know?
New Experiences.....in September my friend Kelly decided to give birth early to her fourth child. Not a pleasant experiece for any of us. We were so scared for her and baby Jett. Thankfully all worked out well, and Jett Alexander Lynam made his appearance on Sept. 21, 2010. This meant I am now the Art teacher at Cornestone Academy! Panic and excitement set in very quickly!! Now those of you who know me well, know that 1) I am not artistic and 2) I am not a teacher. I must say the whole experience turned out great for me, Kelly was very prepared, Hannah help me with all the examples, and the kids at Cornerstone are awesome! Through this I learned that I can do hard things and if I try real hard , I can do art! I had many cheerleaders along the way, and a great staff helping me out! Kelly thanks for teaching me excitement for creativity!
Almost done.....of course we all know what a busy time November and December usher in at this time of year. I became convicted to not let the many "things" take the place of what was important at this very important time of year. Thank you Lord, I so enjoyed myself and all those around me so much more. I made homemade Christmas cards with my sweet girl, Hannah, baked cookies,made fudge, baked bread, and many homemade goodies to share with those who we know and love! Gatherings with friends and family! I was determined to keep my promise...simplicity! Christmas is Love! Just a few days before Christmas Day, a friend experienced a tragic loss....her home that was filled with her creativity, love, and everything personal with meaning was gone.....no words, my heart ached as I heard the news. When the news came, tears began to flow, and I could hear my God repeat, SIMPLE, SIMPLE. CHRISTmas is Love. I could not imagine what my friend, Edie, must be feeling at this moment. She is such a loving, caring, vibrant person, always smiling. Thankfully, she was alive as well as all her family that escaped that horrible fire. "things" gone, family safe and well! I could only pray, thats all I knew to do, I had no words, no actions, just prayer. Earnestly! On Christmas day, Edie , in all her grace, shared this " The Lord giveth, and the Lord take away." Such strong words from a strong woman who just experienced one of the most tramatic losses any of us could ever imagine.
Thank You, Lord, for all the many trials, tribulations, changes and challenges because through all of these we see Your Awesomeness, Your Greatness, and most of all Your continued Love and Mercy, never abandonment! Help me be like You each day!
Happy New Year
Welcome 2011
