5th Grade Field Trips!

We, the fifth grade of Jacksonville Christian Academy, finally had our first field trip. It was awesome. Despite the lo-o-o-o-ong drive and the rain all day long, we enjoyed ourselves more than we had expected to. Two of my favorite moments as a teacher were: These first two pictures where we accidently wound up on - stage in a very empty theater. So, of course, we had to take full advantage of it. We were horsing around, singing, and having a good time; until we noticed the elderly couple that came in and we watching us as though we were the show! Those..kids...I'm not sure where they get it :) This was awesome! There was this little shop with all sorts of instruments. Some you could look at and some you could actually play. The piano was locked up and the kids wanted me to play a song on it . I told the man working at the time, that if he would unlock it, we would sing him a song. He did and the kids sang, "I Must Be Special, For He Paid a Special Price for Me"..People heard them and began filtering in. When they were done, they received a round of applause. Not knowing they had gathered a crowd, they were amazed. I was just plain proud. This actually opened up the door for us to give a testimony of where we're from and a little of what we believe. It was awesome! From sleepy to wildly happy, (as my children seem to go)... the Lord blessed with travelling mercies and great fun and fellowship. I'm thankful for all He has allowed us to do. This has been a trying year for us. There has been many tragedies, but the Lord has used these chillens to build my faith, and I hope I have done the same for them...

Thanks for tuning in...See ya next time!

These next two were cracking me up.. I hear a rather loud comotion but I turn to look and they are putting their hands in a huddle and screaming..."Praise the Lord" It was the cutest thing ever! Some, of course, are just bored with everything! And others charm at a very young age:) I've enjoyed this summer. I'm always amazed at how the Lord can use a child to make the day brighter and remind you of what is important in life.

Summer's Almost Over...

So, I've been working all summer at our School's daycare. It can be taxing, but the kids make it worth it. This is our last week, and today was clown day! Here are a few pics for your viewing pleasure!

July 4th..Rained Out!

The beginning of the rain didn't intimidate us. However, it should have because the downpour that followed was UNBELIEVABLE! The fireworks were cancelled and we went home soaked..Oh, yes, no over-exaggerating there. Happy Fourth:)

This is my sister..We have our random moments, and this is one of them. She wanted a picture of our eyes!

This is my friend, Bethany Nicole. A.k.a. Fellow horseback rider..fourwheeler..and the one who keeps us busy with things to do, ALWAYS!

Saying Goodbye...

Well...I'm moving HOME! (for those of you who haven't heard). And although there is excitement in every day, moments of sadness creep in as well. Especially, when saying goodbye to those you've come to love. These last few days have been filled with many attempts at saying goodbye...We've had baseball games, rook losses:), and much food. Each time becoming more aware of how God brings you together and is more than able keep you together. (even though your location may change) When these beloved friends of mine send the rest of our pictures from these time, I'll be glad to show off more of our last days together. After my life is transplanted to Jacksonville, Ar once again. God has used these last five years in a way I never could have imagined to prepare me for the future. "Growing pains" the doctor would always say as a child. When things grow and change, its not always easy. But I am eagerly waiting for the "exceeding, abundantly above" that the Lord will do in every aspect of our lives. Those of us leaving, AND those staying.

Bethany Nicole

This one's for the girls...Bethany (right) is one of the teens from my church...She's a freshman at Champion Baptist College...I've watched the Lord work in her life and seen her grow so much in the last few years...I know the Lord has great things for her..SO...for the record, luv ya and miss ya....and can't wait to see you! Keep it up...

Youth Conference/College Days

My home church just had their annual youth conference. I missed it! Normally, my schedule allows for a quick weeekend trip; but not this week. The Lord always does great things, and this year was not an execption. Kenny Baldwin was the guest speaker this year. I was a freshman in college when I first heard him, and he was 18. (One year older than I) ...it's been a few years since then.....He was awesome! God has given him many gifts and talents. Aside from preaching, he also plays the piano and sings...which is equally phenomenal. This year, he was accompanied by his wife and family. Although, I wasn't there , I heard how greatly God used him.

You think this looks good...well you're right. It was delicious...ate every bite! Talk about a spread. This was a dinner that met even my hunger. (Which is sometimes hard to rival) A bit messy eating with your hands, but we yankees made do. I think at the end we got all of the food out of our teeth... Thanks "dad" Bixler for sending us on this girls night. It was much needed and great fun. We began to cause a scene (which normally never happens) while waiting for the show to start. Pictures were the only thing that kept us behaving:) The place was packed and we helped them celebrate by singing "Rocky Top" Thankfully for you this blog does not include sound!

Happy Birthday!

My friend, Rachel, recently had a birthday. She chose to celebrate this fine occasion at the Dixie Stampede. This being a favorite of her family, she had been many times. I, on the other hand, was about to have a first. We had a great time....ate...laughed....and won a rose for cheering:) the loudest. (or something) All in all it was a great time!

Sisters

Over Spring Break, I was able to spend some time with my sister...April. It seems the time spent with those you love is not often or long enough. She is recently married and will soon be starting deputation with her husband...Cory. They are going to the field of Nepal to reach the Tibetan people. I am so thankful to God for all that He's done in her life. This weekend held good memories...from singing together for the first time in their church...to an endless search for a store and SALE that didn't quite exist as she had thought:) Apart from the weariness, we had a great time and thank God for each moment together!