Hunting with cousin Weldon

In just a few short days, our cousin Weldon will be sent off for training in the Army.  After 15 weeks of intense training he will go overseas into battle.  This is the first time this war has affected my family so closely, and we are afraid.  We all love Weldon so very much and will miss him terribly while he is gone.  He is very excited and very proud of his decision.  As a part of the family I can say we all wish him the best.  We ask that everyone pray for his safety and wisdom.  He is braver than I, for I can't fathom the challenges he will face.

This past weekend, Weldon, Uncle Edwin, Bop, D and Hey all went hunting.  They had so much fun and I am sure Heyward learned a lot from all the wise men he was with.  Here are a few snapshots from the day.   

I can't figure this out...

We have lots of fun, stimulating toys for our children to play with.  We have walkers, bicycles, john deere tractors....

yet, we spend all Sunday afternoon playing with this.....

Laurie Beth's first bubble bath

life as it is....

Lately, D and I are experiencing lots of the peace we have prayed for.  We go to work, come home, take care of children, clean, laundry, bath time, late night snack (a must for Mr. Heyward) and bed.  It is so nice.  No big obligations coming up, no major stressors in our lives, just living.  God has already blessed us!  I have to mention though that I am going to spend the weekend with ONLY my husband!  We are going to do all things relaxing this weekend together, no children...in PINEHURST!  I can't imagine being without the children for two nights...its been a while since I have done that, but I am very excited! Thank you God for listening to our prayers.  This year has started off fantastic!  I love you D, you and I have something great!  I love you Hey and LB, I would give my life for each of you!

The Girl's Christmas!

Every year "The Girls" get together for good food and a gift exchange at Christmas.  This year we met up in Columbia dinner.  We had so much fun, I can't wait for the next get together!

2010 will be a Sweet year!

D and I married in 2005 and our life took off like a rocket.  We have had exciting event after exciting event happen.  We are so grateful for all of it.  As I welcome in the new year I have a simple request from life and that is peace, patience and contentment.  I hope that my little family of four will have a year to enjoy the many blessings we have been given.  I pray for peace, so that are able to show appreciation for the small things.  I ask for patience so that we can fully let God mold us into who he wants us to be.  I pray for contentment as we encounter troubling times and anxieties.  Happy 2010!