June 28, 2010

Looking back, I wanted to make sure I blogged about Rachael's year of school. We are very proud of her freshman year at Union Grove Christian School and look forward to prayerfully an even better sophomore year.

In May, we were contacted by a member of the American Christian Honor Society and told that Rachael was eligible for the distinguished honor of being inducted into the American Christian Honor Society. There are certain requirements that are part of the eligibility process including your GPA, testimony, character, service, and leadership abilities.

Rachael was responsible for obtaining a letter of recommendation from her pastor, writing a letter of testimony, and submitting an application form that included any service to her church, school and community.

After weeks of anticipation, we received a phone call stating that Rachael had been accepted and would be tapped during a secret ceremony at the school. Jimmy and I were sworn to secrecy, given a date and time to be at the school, and told where to park so she would not see our car.

The whole ceremony process was so exciting. Jimmy and I have never been part of anything so special and it was a wonderful afternoon. My stepson, Nick came and enjoyed the special event with us.

Mrs. Hernandez opening up the ceremony

All the high school kids are sitting in the auditorium, unaware that all of us parents are behind them. The existing members of the Honor Society come out and tap the shoulder of the ones that are being inducted for the following year. Here, Rachael is being tapped and taken up front by Rachel Holt. Rachael receiving her membership certificate from Mr.Steinhaus

The lights go out and the existing Honor students perform a song and light candles that form crosses. Beautiful site to see!

Proud Dad, Mom, and Nick with Rachael holding her certificate!

Mr.Steinhaus, Rachael, Jimmy and Me!

After the ceremony, the kids were taken to Olive Garden Restaurant and enjoyed lunch as part of their reward. We were so proud to be part of this special event but more proud that Rachael worked hard for this reward. She even said to me after the lunch, "mom, now I know why you always push me to do my best at everything even when I don't want to!" She then said, "I love you mom and I am thankful you stayed on my behind!"

Small gifts that last a lifetime!

June 24, 2010

This flower was picked and given to me by a beautiful little girl. Her name is Claire Harris and our family loves her very much. She is a joy to be around and has a "wit" about her that make us laugh every time she is with us. She is so smart and talks well for her age. I would dare say, her English is better than mine!

One day when Claire's family was visiting our home, Claire picked this flower and brought it to me. She could not have known at the time how much her simple gift of a flower could impact another life. I had been going though some very difficult trials and was feeling quite discouraged when this flower was given to me.

I placed it in a water bottle and sat it on the kitchen counter.

Each morning when I was dressed and ready for work, heading out the door, I would see my flower. It would bring a smile to my face and a prayer to mind. "Dear Lord, thank you for the small blessings that remind me of your love for me." God used Claire and a flower to remind me how much he loves and cares for me!

The flower has since wilted and is now gone but the act of kindness from this child will forever serve as a lesson in my heart. Sometimes others are going through trials and carrying burdens that we may never know about but our one act of kindness can remind them of God's love!

Thank you Claire and Mrs.Angie loves you very much!

Teens Involved

June 24, 2010

Our teen youth group recently competed in the Area Teens Involved and Regional Teens Involved. This is something that our church participates in each year and I enjoy watching the teens use the talents they have been blessed with.

This year, Rachael was involved in a vocal solo, vocal trio, puppet ministry, choir, and drama. She loves to be involved with the many different areas of teens involved and always looks forward to traveling to Word of Life camp to compete in the Teens Involved located in Florida.

The vocal trio consisted of Rachael, Leann Berrier, and Jessica Hege. I have to admit, the first time I heard them sing for the Area Teens Involved, I was somewhat concerned. They all realized they would need lots of practice before competing in the Regional Teens Involved to be held at the end of May at Piedmont Bible College.

Kathy Middleton was a tremendous help to the girls and committed her time to assist the girls in their vocals, harmonizing and timing. She was awesome and soon the girls were singing as though they had been singing together for years.

Rachael receiving her award from our Assistant Pastor Bailey

Jessica, Rachael, Leann, and Pastor Bailey. The vocal trio advanced to Regional too!

Rachael performing her solo! The vocal trio: Jessica, Rachael, and Leann

I thing all of our teens performed exceptionally well and I will be praying for them as they travel to Florida in July to compete at Word of Life Camp.

RU CELEBRATION

On February 20,2010 we held our annual Reformers Unanimous celebration dinner for our many volunteers who assist Jimmy in this ministry.

This year the menu consisted of barbecue, baked beans, potato salad, rolls, chips, chicken tenders, and lots of desserts. I believe the barbecue is a standing request now and Jimmy always does a wonderful job with cooking it.

We now have close to 30 volunteers that work in RU and we are so grateful for the dedication and time they each give to this ministry. I personally schedule and work in the daycare along with many other couples. This is just a small way of saying how much we appreciate all of the volunteers for their many hours of service.

We love you all very much and appreciate all you do!