seth's last graduation post ~ i promise

Setting up. The sign on the barn was one of my favorite things about the decorations.

 It could be seen from the driveway as guests arrived and is still hanging on the barn. 

I am sure this will not be the last sign to hang on the barn.

 Ready and waiting.

The graduate (on left) with Nathan.

 Corn Hole!

 Chilling while the food line is long.

 BBQ pulled pork, mac-n-cheese, baked beans, coleslaw.

 Eating!

 Eating!

Hannah, smiling!

 Many games of volleyball.

 Marianna and Rebekah

 Girls catching tadpoles in the pond.

87 friends and family 

38 pounds of pulled pork

144 servings of mac-n-cheese

76 servings beans

 2 1/2 gallons of coleslaw

many different desserts

5 gallons iced tea

8 gallons lemonade

10 gallons of water

It was a ton of fun...

and we're glad it's done!

It has been storming for two days. We went to church yesterday and now have done nothing but a minor amount of clean-up, movie watching and napping.

Thank you to those that have served our country and humble gratitude to the families whose loved ones have made the ultimate sacrifice.

summer is here

Joining with SouleMama

preparations

scrub, wash, cook, mow, plant, paint, slide-show, music...repeat!

Seth's graduation party Saturday has us working overtime.
And a sick child had me at twilight pediatrics last night.
She has been a trooper. 

The youngest of five and the first one to have strep-throat.
Watermelon fruit slushie, gatorade, medicine
and a Walton's marathon
help ease the fact that mom can not sit by her side
for any extended period of time. 

Many emotions are racing through my heart.
Deep breaths help me smile and remember

that these days, with all my loves under this roof,
are numbered...and treasured.

oh happy day moment!

Just a Moment from our week,
 one to remember and savor always...

slowing down to enjoy it!  Hope you have a great weekend!

morning light

What will I do when the music stops...

This morning I have heard guitar, piano, violin and bass.

Bass? How did you sneak in hear.

 For  seven years I have said, "No bass, it is too big, I am not hauling it around."

 Then they get big enough to haul it around themselves. 

The house is alive with the sound of music, forget about the hills.

When the children have gone and music grows quiet...I will begin piano lessons - again.

graduation

Today you close two chapters in your life and begin a new one. Seth, I am proud and blessed to call  you my son. I know that God is going to do mighty things with your life, if you allow Him to guide and direct your path.  

I took you from the ends of the earth,

from its farthest corners I called you. 

I said, ‘You are my servant’

I  have chosen you and have not rejected you. 

 So do not fear, for I am with you;
do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

 Isaiah 41:9-10

Love, Mom

Happy Mother's Day

To all Moms, near and far, that I love and call friend, you know who you are; I pray your day is special, blessed and shared with those you love!

This post never made it yesterday because I was waiting on this little guy to arrive...an incredible Mother's Day blessing!

A little girl's giveaway!

Lenna is having a giveaway and helping a missionary family. The Choates are home on furlough and she is raising money to cover some of their expenses. Please go shop and help her accomplish her ministry. Then sign up, and maybe you will get another necklace.