tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30028956275735583212024-02-18T23:07:47.351-06:00Will and Kate's WorldThe homepage of William and Kate Rushing.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14692175604434395709noreply@blogger.comBlogger271125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3002895627573558321.post-47438697109539891412015-02-27T16:57:00.004-06:002015-02-27T17:04:40.636-06:00Snow Day 2015When we moved here over a year ago, we heard from every single person that we talked to, “It’s really not this cold here; this is very unusual. We usually only get a ‘dusting’ of snow maybe once a year.” Well, This is our second winter here in Muscle Shoals, Alabama and we have had snow both years. School has been cancelled three times this month alone and delayed several times this year due to ice on the roads. We were lied to! <br />
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Now I know it isn’t as cold here as it is in Minot, North Dakota where my brother is located, but it is darn cold for this little family that has lived along the Gulf Coast. <br />
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As most of you know, it snowed in Alabama this past week. And I mean really snowed. None of that little barely cover the ground stuff that we were used to happening every five or six years. It SNOWED! We had almost 4 inches in our back yard. <br />
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We did post a few pictures on Facebook, but didn’t want to overload everyone with all of our pictures, so we decided to do a post on our blog so that our family could see all of our pictures. (click on any photo to view it larger on Flickr)<br />
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Here is a time lapse of the snow that filled our back yard on February 25, 2015. This is just about one hour’s worth of snow. <br />
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Here is the front of our house the next morning. It was beautiful!<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/16656176082" title="Snow in Muscle Shoals by William Rushing, on Flickr"><img alt="Snow in Muscle Shoals" height="375" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8565/16656176082_2656ee1e5b.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" width="500" /></a><br />
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Back yard was full! It looked so much prettier like this than with the dirt in the back part that still hasn’t filled in with grass.<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/16655800671" title="Snow in Muscle Shoals by William Rushing, on Flickr"><img alt="Snow in Muscle Shoals" height="375" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8589/16655800671_c5dc6f1965.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" width="500" /></a><br />
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Here is the church.<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/16469655198" title="Snow in Muscle Shoals by William Rushing, on Flickr"><img alt="Snow in Muscle Shoals" height="375" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8593/16469655198_9662165452.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" width="500" /></a><br />
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When Will took this measurement, we still had another hour’s worth of snowfall. <br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/16037288373" title="Snow in Muscle Shoals by William Rushing, on Flickr"><img alt="Snow in Muscle Shoals" height="375" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8647/16037288373_3f25dd5b36.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" width="500" /></a><br />
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Our neighbor made about an 8 foot tall snowman, the kids really wanted to do that too, but us Florida folks aren’t as professional at snowman building. Here is the snowman and snow puppy that Isabelle and Luke did. <br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/16631301716" title="Snow in Muscle Shoals by William Rushing, on Flickr"><img alt="Snow in Muscle Shoals" height="375" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8598/16631301716_eec1c0f5bf.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" width="500" /></a><br />
Here is the smaller snowman that Anna and Olivia (our next door neighbor) made. <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/16034917594" title="Snow in Muscle Shoals by William Rushing, on Flickr"><img alt="Snow in Muscle Shoals" height="375" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8572/16034917594_fc120c97b0.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" width="500" /></a><br />
We tried snow cream for the first time. Luke said he it was yucky at first, but after he gave it a second try, he loved it!<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/16631279376" title="Snow in Muscle Shoals by William Rushing, on Flickr"><img alt="Snow in Muscle Shoals" height="375" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8635/16631279376_de4f0323ec.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" width="500" /></a><br />
Isabelle’s band has a competition this coming Tuesday and they have missed so much practice over the last two weeks due to school delays and closings. Her band directors issued a challenge for the kids to post pictures of them practicing in the snow.<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/16034900274" title="Snow in Muscle Shoals by William Rushing, on Flickr"><img alt="Snow in Muscle Shoals" height="375" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8634/16034900274_40b23a1555.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" width="500" /></a><br />
Violet, wasn’t sure about the snow at first. To begin with, she just barked at it, but then she decided that it was really fun. When the kids were trying to build their snowmen, she kept jumping up and trying to eat bite their snowmen.<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/16449910237" title="Snow in Muscle Shoals by William Rushing, on Flickr"><img alt="Snow in Muscle Shoals" height="375" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8583/16449910237_7a0b8e8f73.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" width="500" /></a><br />
We rode over to a friend's (Ryan & Lucy) house to go sledding and play in the big field. The trees were so pretty that we had to take some pictures in front of them.<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/16471023639" title="Snow in Muscle Shoals by William Rushing, on Flickr"><img alt="Snow in Muscle Shoals" height="281" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8676/16471023639_e63030500f.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" width="500" /></a> <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/16655786561" title="Snow in Muscle Shoals by William Rushing, on Flickr"><img alt="Snow in Muscle Shoals" height="281" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8646/16655786561_9c50fec6f9.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" width="500" /></a> <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/16471017779" title="Snow in Muscle Shoals by William Rushing, on Flickr"><img alt="Snow in Muscle Shoals" height="281" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8577/16471017779_3711a0b238.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" width="500" /></a> <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/16656152042" title="Snow in Muscle Shoals by William Rushing, on Flickr"><img alt="Snow in Muscle Shoals" height="281" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8620/16656152042_2c4224577d.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" width="500" /></a><br />
We are very thankful for Lucy & Ryan and the time that they spend with us!<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/16469610958" title="Snow in Muscle Shoals by William Rushing, on Flickr"><img alt="Snow in Muscle Shoals" height="500" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8646/16469610958_b23fd6e020.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" width="281" /></a><br />
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They had a small go cart that we took turns driving in. The snow was falling so hard that we couldn’t see anything when we were driving and sledding but it was still fun.<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/16656148882" title="Snow in Muscle Shoals by William Rushing, on Flickr"><img alt="Snow in Muscle Shoals" height="281" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8594/16656148882_ef5774c6ac.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" width="500" /></a><br />
Lucy and Anna were up first on the sleds.<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/16655770621" title="Snow in Muscle Shoals by William Rushing, on Flickr"><img alt="Snow in Muscle Shoals" height="375" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8572/16655770621_cd529bf510.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" width="500" /></a><br />
Then it was Will and Isabelle’s turn.<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/16469593568" title="Snow in Muscle Shoals by William Rushing, on Flickr"><img alt="Snow in Muscle Shoals" height="375" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8655/16469593568_8fd7518007.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" width="500" /></a><br />
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Will made videos of everyone’s sled ride.<br />
First up was Will and Isabelle. This even gave Will a chance to use his selfie stick. <br />
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Then it was Isabelle & Anna<br />
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and finally me and Luke.<br />
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We did get a family picture. I think Anna may be getting too tall. I might have to change the way we do our family pictures.<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/16034853564" title="Snow in Muscle Shoals by William Rushing, on Flickr"><img alt="Snow in Muscle Shoals" height="375" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8663/16034853564_1205a2fd36.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" width="500" /></a><br />
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We do joke about the cold with everyone up here, because they keep telling us it isn’t normally this cold and yet, it just keeps getting colder. I will concede that the snow was beautiful and fun! I just don’t need it to be so cold ALL the time! We had a great couple of snow days and we are good for a year or two.Kate Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11220000354714739004noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3002895627573558321.post-30830339820835635292014-12-01T16:12:00.000-06:002015-03-03T16:14:27.237-06:00The Grown-Ups Go To Disney World<p> </p>
<p>In November, Will and Timmy attended a conference on church revitalization in Orlando, Florida. After the conference was over, Maggie Bea and I flew down to meet them for a quick visit to Disney. </p>
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<p>We love going with our kids, but we also have a blast, people watching, riding rides, and eating our way through Disney World with just the two of us.  </p>
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<p>We went to Hollywood Studios first.  </p>
<p><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="Disney November 2014" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8572/16699408352_cceb82cab9.jpg" width="333" height="500" /></p>
<p>It’s always fun to do something new at Disney World since they are always adding new things and changing shows and parades.  We found the new Frozen play area for the kiddos. We didn’t play in the snow/ice but we did take a picture in front of a new backdrop with Anna and Elsa.</p>
<p><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="Disney November 2014" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8649/16513056690_297288370b.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></p>
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<p>The next day we went to Animal Kingdom to do a couple of favorite things.</p>
<p><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="Disney November 2014" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8682/16699408712_dcf3a25979.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></p>
<p>After that, we hopped on over to EPCOT. </p>
<p><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="Disney November 2014" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8584/16512870668_cdd1eae683.jpg" width="341" height="508" /></p>
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<p>The next day we went to the Magic Kingdom.  We also decided to attend Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party since we have never been before.  I even made matching shirts for us.  The Christmas party has special snacks, stage shows, fireworks and parades. </p>
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<p><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="Disney November 2014" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8643/16513058680_6eb566c89c.jpg" width="333" height="500" /></p>
<p><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="Disney November 2014" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8617/16513060360_710d49cfc1.jpg" width="333" height="500" /></p>
<p><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="Disney November 2014" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8640/16513062650_e17df55862.jpg" width="333" height="500" /> We had great viewing for the Christmas show that they do on the castle stage.</p>
<p><a title="Disney November 2014 by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/16493171437"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="Disney November 2014" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8580/16493171437_893328e0cc.jpg" width="500" height="375" /></a> The Christmas party also gives you opportunities to meet some different characters.  Our first time meeting Scrooge McDuck.</p>
<p><a title="Disney November 2014 by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/16674518496"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="Disney November 2014" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8682/16674518496_199dabcb95.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a>   Had to wait a very long time to meet these guys. But we wanted to see all Seven Dwarfs together so we just had to.<img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="Disney November 2014" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8570/16513055820_5a6b35d955.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></p>
<p>At Christmas they also decked out the Jungle Cruise to make it the Jingle Cruise.</p>
<p><a title="Disney November 2014 by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/16700453205"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="Disney November 2014" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8618/16700453205_501fec4914.jpg" width="500" height="375" /></a>   <a title="Disney November 2014 by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/16078130234"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="Disney November 2014" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8645/16078130234_85c88ba0c3.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a> This picture looks so grainy because it is ‘snowing’ on Main Street. </p>
<p><a title="Disney November 2014 by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/16699154031"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="Disney November 2014" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8604/16699154031_c1e1043c72.jpg" width="333" height="500" /></a> <a title="Disney November 2014 by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/16493162037"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="Disney November 2014" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8625/16493162037_e7ef2f4777.jpg" width="333" height="500" /></a> <a title="Disney November 2014 by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/16514318189"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="Disney November 2014" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8618/16514318189_c6e694e8ef.jpg" width="333" height="500" /></a></p>
<p>We did miss our kids, but I don’t think they missed us very much. They were very happy to stay here with Grandma and play.</p>Kate Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11220000354714739004noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3002895627573558321.post-44272397437614558242014-07-09T07:48:00.001-05:002014-07-09T07:48:38.675-05:00Muscle Shoals Pictures July 2014<p>Last week when Will and Amy were here with their camera we took them to see some of the sights of Muscle Shoals and decided to take some pictures while we were at it. Here are the pictures that we took.</p> <p> </p> <p><a title="IMG_8758-001 by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14607323485"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="IMG_8758-001" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2935/14607323485_a5b6aabd47.jpg" width="333" height="500" /></a>  <a title="IMG_8501-005 by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14420682410"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="IMG_8501-005" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2917/14420682410_607b0dc331.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a>  <a title="IMG_8501-003 by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14604071281"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="IMG_8501-003" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3923/14604071281_a0b20d381c.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a>  <a title="IMG_8963 by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14420851327"> <img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="IMG_8785-001" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5505/14607232495_bd75f643ac.jpg" width="333" height="500" /></a> <p align="center"></p> </p> <p><a title="IMG_8889-001 by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14420849257"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="IMG_8889-001" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3862/14420849257_76f4d6c4ac.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a> <a title="IMG_8878 by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14627289863"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="IMG_8878" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2932/14627289863_c39bc80c9a.jpg" width="333" height="500" /></a>  <a title="IMG_8820 by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14584229556"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="IMG_8820" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5582/14584229556_46c262a94f.jpg" width="333" height="500" /></a> <a title="IMG_8807 by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14584226936"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="IMG_8807" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2927/14584226936_4d007b9c72.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a> <a title="IMG_8805 by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14420839487"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="IMG_8805" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5277/14420839487_100b65c82b.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a>   <a title="IMG_8781-001 by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14420591570"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="IMG_8781-001" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3843/14420591570_9e97a23457.jpg" width="333" height="500" /></a> <a title="IMG_8771-001 by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14420622788"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="IMG_8771-001" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3864/14420622788_fab3d5a4e5.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a> <a title="IMG_8768-001 by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14420587470"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="IMG_8768-001" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3867/14420587470_7e7c88b9dd.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a> <a title="IMG_8446 by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14420820617"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="IMG_8446" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2940/14420820617_ac2118160b.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a> <a title="IMG_8430 by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14420576160"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="IMG_8430" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5583/14420576160_de06fed92f.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a> <a title="IMG_8359 by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14420574950"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="IMG_8359" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3889/14420574950_51c921af19.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a></a></p> <p><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="IMG_8529" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3862/14606654642_e3488f5cc4.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></p> <p><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="IMG_8797" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5077/14607234095_8b4cb0ec4b.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></p> <p><a title="IMG_8856 by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14627287853"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="IMG_8856" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3915/14627287853_e8e07eed9a.jpg" width="333" height="500" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="IMG_8963" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3914/14420851327_f2c3d72209.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></p> Kate Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11220000354714739004noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3002895627573558321.post-79263266379951481302014-07-09T07:35:00.001-05:002014-07-09T07:35:46.961-05:00Fourth of July Fun<p>Last week the Reynolds family came to visit. In the beginning the kids were so excited to see each other but by the end they were treating each other like brothers and sisters.  We went to First Fridays in Florence, the splash pad, out for ice cream, tried a new restaurant, went to church, took pictures all over Muscle Shoals, played in the backyard a lot and had a great time! The weather couldn’t have been more beautiful. </p> <p> </p> <p><a title="IMG_8290 by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14607212375"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="IMG_8290" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3871/14607212375_4a40fac24f.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a> <a title="IMG_8274 by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14603963291"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="IMG_8274" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5565/14603963291_9ab5058e59.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a> <a title="IMG_8272 by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14627255653"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="IMG_8272" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2920/14627255653_024659930f.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a> <a title="IMG_8192 by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14420603018"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="IMG_8192" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5491/14420603018_8f3a7ee9a9.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a> <a title="IMG_8175 by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14627253233"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="IMG_8175" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5566/14627253233_dfda0f272e.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a> <a title="IMG_8169 by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14420809967"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="IMG_8169" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5478/14420809967_9c2f02c19b.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a> <a title="IMG_8159 by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14420809087"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="IMG_8159" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5037/14420809087_942cc01c9c.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a> <a title="IMG_8155 by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14584194826"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="IMG_8155" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5578/14584194826_dbe3c76045.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a> <a title="IMG_8130 by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14584193906"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="IMG_8130" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5552/14584193906_19a27df00b.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a> <a title="IMG_8120 by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14584193086"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="IMG_8120" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5493/14584193086_6a88d4cf91.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a> <a title="IMG_8114 by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14584191796"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="IMG_8114" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2922/14584191796_c6f2667b31.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a> <a title="IMG_8109 by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14606633012"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="IMG_8109" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2922/14606633012_38e4df89e2.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a> <a title="IMG_8102 by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14420621999"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="IMG_8102" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2918/14420621999_30fea15c08.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a> <a title="IMG_8100 by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14420620389"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="IMG_8100" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5474/14420620389_06e5d00634.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a> <a title="2014-07-03 18.59.08-1 by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14606627782"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" alt="2014-07-03 18.59.08-1" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5485/14606627782_c90d3bc434.jpg" width="500" height="375" /></a></p> Kate Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11220000354714739004noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3002895627573558321.post-91957797705568172902014-07-08T21:43:00.001-05:002014-07-08T21:43:15.798-05:00Catching Up!<p>As I was getting ready to do a new post, I realized that I hadn’t posted anything since November of 2013. So now I am going to try to catch everyone up on what has been going on since then. We have been busy!</p> <p> </p> <p>In November Will began pastoring Woodward Avenue Baptist Church in Muscle Shoals, Alabama. We know that God called us here and have no doubt that we are where we are supposed to be. </p> <center><a title="Catching Up by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14606199101"><img alt="Catching Up" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2913/14606199101_507dce5b51.jpg" width="500" height="375" /></a></center> <p> </p> <p>That being said, it was extremely difficult to pack up and move six hours away from all of our friends and family. The girls in particular have had the toughest time leaving their friends behind.  I think though, that we are finished with the worst part and the girls have begun making new friends and are happy! </p> <center></center> <p> </p> <p>In the time since we moved, we have bought a house, </p> <center><a title="IMG_7617 by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14605440194"><img alt="IMG_7617" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3878/14605440194_94b34eb908.jpg" width="500" height="333" /></a></center> <p> </p> <p>survived Christmas, Easter and the 4th of July,</p> <center><a title="Catching Up by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14423036827"><img alt="Catching Up" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3862/14423036827_bc83d220e0.jpg" width="500" height="375" /></a> <a title="Catching Up by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14607396374"><img alt="Catching Up" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2934/14607396374_51bc283f76.jpg" width="500" height="375" /></a></center> <p> </p> <p>nearly frozen to death,</p> <center><a title="Catching Up by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14606198691"><img alt="Catching Up" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5579/14606198691_2a683dd0b0.jpg" width="500" height="375" /></a> <a title="2014-01-07 07.37.02 by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14584447026"><img alt="2014-01-07 07.37.02" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3910/14584447026_04779232c5.jpg" width="500" height="375" /></a></center> <p> </p> <p>traveled to Baltimore for the Southern Baptist Convention,</p> <center><a title="2014-06-10 10.53.00 by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14420816580"><img alt="2014-06-10 10.53.00" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3868/14420816580_7d4109e1f6.jpg" width="500" height="375" /></a></center> <p> </p> <p>Washington DC,</p> <center><a title="2014-06-11 10.40.00 by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14606892662"><img alt="2014-06-11 10.40.00" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5583/14606892662_e1f887574c.jpg" width="500" height="375" /></a></center> <p> </p> <p>Memphis and Atlanta.</p> <center><a title="Catching Up by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14422830978"><img alt="Catching Up" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2916/14422830978_8838f9f890.jpg" width="500" height="375" /></a> <a title="2014-06-17 13.55.15 by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14420817630"><img alt="2014-06-17 13.55.15" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2927/14420817630_15ec1e9b41.jpg" width="500" height="375" /></a> <a title="2014-06-16 22.13.48 by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14420817210"><img alt="2014-06-16 22.13.48" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2937/14420817210_d48d913bcb.jpg" width="500" height="375" /></a></center> <p> </p> <p>We’ve been to not one, but, two Major League Baseball games.</p> <center><a title="Catching Up by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14423040527"><img alt="Catching Up" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2927/14423040527_9e61c5e584.jpg" width="500" height="375" /></a> <a title="Catching Up by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14608891872"><img alt="Catching Up" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2939/14608891872_2a0cab3c1c.jpg" width="500" height="375" /></a></center> <p> </p> <p>We’ve unpacked boxes, decorated our house, refinished furniture, cleaned, and worked on a yard that actually belongs to us for the first time in our marriage.</p> <center><a title="Catching Up by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14629460253"><img alt="Catching Up" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3896/14629460253_70b6bf9012.jpg" width="500" height="375" /></a> <a title="Catching Up by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14629463303"><img alt="Catching Up" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5545/14629463303_aeebbd11cc.jpg" width="500" height="375" /></a> <a title="Catching Up by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14423038977"><img alt="Catching Up" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5504/14423038977_6a5f10e97b.jpg" width="500" height="375" /></a> </center> <p> </p> <p>We’ve celebrated one birthday so far this year, been to new doctor’s and started a new school.</p> <center><a title="Catching Up by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14423040187"><img alt="Catching Up" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5572/14423040187_7efccc3b6f.jpg" width="500" height="375" /></a> <a title="2014-01-06 10.34.00 by William Rushing, on Flickr" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/wakworld/14604208051"><img alt="2014-01-06 10.34.00" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5527/14604208051_cb3aef2f42.jpg" width="500" height="375" /></a></center> <p> </p> <p>We’ve traveled to see family three times already and had family come see us several times.</p> <p> </p> <p>We are getting used to new things, places and people. We are happy and things are going well!</p> Kate Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11220000354714739004noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3002895627573558321.post-27874129587880724152013-11-09T15:40:00.001-06:002013-11-09T15:40:01.476-06:00Cotton Pictures 2013<p>We have tried to take cotton pictures for over a month now. Every time we would try, the field would be picked or it would rain, or we couldn’t find anyone to take the pictures for us. </p> <p> </p> <p>This past week we were finally able to get everyone ready, find a field, get someone to take the pictures, and have the weather cooperate all on the same day. Although I did have to bribe Anna because she was not happy with the outfit that I made her wear. </p> <p> </p> <p>The day was beautiful! Here are my favorite pictures from the day.</p> <p> </p> <p><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_7486 (edited)" src="http://static.flickr.com/7409/10762852864_d0ce44a21c.jpg" /></p> <p><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_7443(edited)" src="http://static.flickr.com/5507/10762814634_bc1879c479.jpg" /></p> <p><a title="IMG_7437" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/10763004993/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_7437" src="http://static.flickr.com/3730/10763004993_cbdd058e8b.jpg" /></a><a title="IMG_7415(edited)" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/10762710555/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_7415(edited)" src="http://static.flickr.com/5475/10762710555_1d51b0b27b.jpg" /></a></p> <p><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_7319" src="http://static.flickr.com/5511/10762774754_6a8d9e51aa.jpg" /><font color="#000033"></font></p> <p><a title="IMG_7395" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/10762772676/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_7395" src="http://static.flickr.com/5550/10762772676_980af13cdb.jpg" /></a><a title="IMG_7348" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/10762766316/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_7348" src="http://static.flickr.com/3777/10762766316_8b232a8049.jpg" /></a></p> <p>My wild children.</p> <p><a title="IMG_7497" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/10763692105/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_7497" src="http://static.flickr.com/2828/10763692105_7537524296.jpg" /></a></p> <p>We were just giving Will a chance to get the camera settings right in this next photo, but it turned out really good. </p> <p><a title="IMG_7478" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/10762831266/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_7478" src="http://static.flickr.com/5522/10762831266_7ec0234f96.jpg" /></a></p> <p>We have been watching Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. this season…so I like to think of this next one as fire in my hands. My mom however, told the kids that I had caught a fairy from the field. They seemed to approve of that.</p> <p><a title="IMG_7469" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/10762826136/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_7469" src="http://static.flickr.com/5494/10762826136_fcdb249ee6.jpg" /></a></p> <p>My pretty girls…</p> <p><a title="IMG_7454" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/10762813276/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_7454" src="http://static.flickr.com/5523/10762813276_f9ea0af50d.jpg" /></a><a title="IMG_7445(edited)" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/10762806786/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_7445(edited)" src="http://static.flickr.com/5495/10762806786_050fe99f76.jpg" /></a></p> <p>A big thanks to Jenny for letting us use her front yard and for taking our pictures! And a big thanks to Mama and Daddy for being willing to take the pictures and riding out there with us just to sit.</p> Kate Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11220000354714739004noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3002895627573558321.post-90918583842881810672013-11-04T07:13:00.001-06:002013-11-04T07:13:37.276-06:00Jr. Beta Club Induction<p>This year Isabelle was inducted into the Jr. Beta Club for making A Honor Roll all through the fourth grade. She was very excited!</p> <p> </p> <p>Here is Isabelle accepting her certificate and pin from Mrs. Allen their principal.</p> <p> </p> <p><a title="2013-10-31 12.33.33" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/10669579015/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="2013-10-31 12.33.33" src="http://static.flickr.com/2861/10669579015_66b4c96f19.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Here is a picture of Isabelle with her certificate after the ceremony.</p> <p><a title="2013-10-31 12.37.49" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/10669656114/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="2013-10-31 12.37.49" src="http://static.flickr.com/7304/10669656114_36a75e6935.jpg" /></a></p> Kate Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11220000354714739004noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3002895627573558321.post-27916446964355892852013-10-30T19:55:00.001-05:002013-10-31T18:28:27.134-05:00Trunk or Treat!Jay First Baptist Church participated in the Trunk or Treat activities that Jay United Methodist church does every year. Mt. Carmel Methodist participated this year as well. We had over 100 kids. <br />
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I am not a huge fan of Halloween so we never do any trick or treating. If the churches do something we let the kids throw on one of their dress up outfits from the toy box and go to that. But this year since our church was participating and I was decorating the car, I let the kids pick something that we could make. Isabelle wanted to be a giraffe and Anna wanted to be a bee. Luke said he wanted to be a ghost but he never would put on his costume that I made; except just long enough to take this picture.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/10583389156/" title="2013-10-30 19.13.33"><img alt="2013-10-30 19.13.33" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/7434/10583389156_b7fa95b810.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><br />
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The kids had a great time and ended up sitting on the porch with their friends eating candy all night while they waited on us to finish passing out candy. <br />
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At one point I was watching Luke walk around with his friend Colton while he Trunk or Treated. I couldn’t help but feel sad that he wasn’t asking for candy and he would tell the people no when they asked him if he wanted any. We have dealt with diabetes for over a year now, but times like this are still painful. <br />
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I did a “Bee”atitude theme this year. I wrote out all of the beatitudes but couldn’t make them stay on the car. So, I had to settle for just the title and the scripture reference. Here is a picture of how it turned out.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/10583417034/" title="2013-10-30 17.07.26"><img alt="2013-10-30 17.07.26" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/7375/10583417034_29d17e29e5.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a>Kate Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11220000354714739004noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3002895627573558321.post-47203475543522873922013-09-03T18:28:00.001-05:002013-09-03T18:28:05.989-05:00First Day of School for the 2013-2014 School Year<p>This year Isabelle started 5th grade and Anna started 3rd grade. I do not know where the time has gone.  Both girls were excited about meeting their new teachers and going back to see their friends. </p> <p> </p> <p>Isabelle and her friend Jada have been in school together for six years now and have never been in the same class. And last year and this year there are only three possible classes. Anna and her friend Josie have been in school together for four years  now and have never been in the same class together either. What are the odds?  Especially considering that there are some kids who have been in Isabelle’s class all but one or two years. </p> <p> </p> <p>Here is Isabelle with her teacher Mrs. Smith. Apparently, she is the daughter of a former pastor of  Jay First Baptist Church and used to live in this house. Isabelle thinks that is a neat thing.</p> <p><a title="First Day of School 2013" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9668952548/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="First Day of School 2013" src="http://static.flickr.com/5333/9668952548_722ceff2e0.jpg" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p>Here is Anna with her teacher Mrs. Rowell. She is a church member. Anna wouldn’t talk to her for the two weeks at church before she started school.  But apparently, Lana has won her over and we are hearing reports that Anna is as ‘out of her shell’ as she has ever been. </p> <p> </p> <p><a title="First Day of School 2013" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9665723275/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="First Day of School 2013" src="http://static.flickr.com/2834/9665723275_54a3ff5f6b.jpg" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p>Here is a picture of the girls each by themselves. </p> <p align="center"><a title="First Day of School 2013" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9668949256/"><img style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px" border="0" alt="First Day of School 2013" src="http://static.flickr.com/3715/9668949256_5e6670dd80.jpg" width="266" height="348" /></a><a title="First Day of School 2013" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9668948558/"><img style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px" border="0" alt="First Day of School 2013" src="http://static.flickr.com/3726/9668948558_d08f1bac5e.jpg" width="266" height="348" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p>Isabelle, especially, looks so grown up! But she is still one of the shortest people in her class. Makes me nervous knowing that in two years she will be in middle school.  I pray that I can keep them little (and innocent) for as long as possible.  </p> <p> </p> <p>I am also praying that they have a wonderful school year and God uses them to teach others about Him. I pray for their safety and I pray for them to learn as much as they can possibly fit into those beautiful heads. I pray that they know how much their daddy and I love them!  </p> <p> </p> <p>Thank you all for your prayers for them as well!</p> Kate Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11220000354714739004noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3002895627573558321.post-9457039765409991592013-08-11T15:42:00.001-05:002013-08-13T17:49:34.053-05:00One Last Summer Trip for 2013…Will taught an adult Vacation Bible School last week at First Baptist Church of Fort Walton Beach. So, we decided to make one last camping trip of the summer. While we were there we took the time to hang out with family.<br />
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Every morning the kids and I took a walk, rode bikes and went swimming in the pool while Will was teaching. Luke is getting much better at swimming with no floats.<br />
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Monday afternoon, we met Grandma at Goofy Golf in Fort Walton Beach. I told the kids we were going to play Goofy Golf. Their response was, “What’s that?” I tried to explain… putt putt, miniature golf, anything along those lines. Then I realized that my kids have never played anything like that. I think we win the award for biggest parent fail of a childhood classic. A ten and eight year old have never played miniature golf. Sad.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9488576606/" title="2013-08-05 18.45.27-1"><img alt="2013-08-05 18.45.27-1" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/5532/9488576606_9308df40c5.jpg" style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9485782615/" title="2013-08-05 19.16.42"><img alt="2013-08-05 19.16.42" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/2863/9485782615_89a6138b95.jpg" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9485781385/" title="2013-08-05 18.49.41"><img alt="2013-08-05 18.49.41" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/5486/9485781385_b66556da93.jpg" /></a><br />
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On Tuesday afternoon our friends came down with their boat for some tubing and relaxing. Here is Luke with Jada and Isabelle. He grinned and played the entire time. He kept putting his hand up trying to make the motion for ‘faster’. <br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9488583664/" title="2013-08-06 16.42.04"><img alt="2013-08-06 16.42.04" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/5526/9488583664_1c36c8da02.jpg" /></a><br />
Jada and Isabelle trying to stand up on the tube. Isabelle is on the right bent over trying to stand.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9488583368/" title="2013-08-06 15.11.56"><img alt="2013-08-06 15.11.56" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/3774/9488583368_6cbb5bb7de.jpg" /></a><br />
Anna wasn’t on it a full minute before Josie tried to stand up. I thought maybe my kids might think twice about it, but as soon as Josie stood up, Anna was trying to get herself up there. She is on the left on her knees in this picture.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9485785001/" title="2013-08-06 15.02.23"><img alt="2013-08-06 15.02.23" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/5344/9485785001_d593b82203.jpg" /></a><br />
This was also Luke’s first ride on a boat (other than those of the Disney nature). <br />
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We had a great spot that we pulled up to with no one else around and we were relaxing and playing until a storm popped up. We zigged and we zagged and we made it around the thunder storm but we still got rained on as we headed back to the boat ramp. The kids can’t wait to go again!<br />
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Wednesday afternoon we went back to the beach on the gulf side and the seaweed was everywhere. Will said, “come on, once you get past the initial part, it goes away.” After watching them for a few minutes I got brave enough to try it… Let me just say…he was wrong! It was still bad. Still gross. Still not something I could handle. So we left the gulf side and went back to the bay side. Much better.<br />
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We caught hermit crabs and regular crabs. The kids walked out a really long way with Will. Then a storm popped up again. I tell ya, Florida and these afternoon thunderstorms!<br />
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On Thursday, we met Will’s mom and Parker and Graci on Okaloosa Island for some more beach fun! Again, we tried the gulf side. Still gross, but this time the kids could handle it. I sat myself on the beach and enjoyed the day.<br />
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Luke loves to dig in the sand.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9485788147/" title="2013-08-08 15.02.54"><img alt="2013-08-08 15.02.54" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/2806/9485788147_f9bc9dd39f.jpg" /></a><br />
Apparently, so do the girls.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9485798187/" title="2013-08-08 15.45.27"><img alt="2013-08-08 15.45.27" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/7293/9485798187_7760e70ecb.jpg" /></a><br />
And Parker.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9488593752/" title="2013-08-08 15.27.09"><img alt="2013-08-08 15.27.09" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/3702/9488593752_05ec3868d3.jpg" /></a><br />
And Grandma.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9485790661/" title="2013-08-08 15.05.04"><img alt="2013-08-08 15.05.04" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/5467/9485790661_ff95dbc385.jpg" style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a><br />
They made sand castles.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9485793063/" title="2013-08-08 15.12.04"><img alt="2013-08-08 15.12.04" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/5488/9485793063_93e285dcb0.jpg" style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a><br />
Luke had to wash off his shovel every time he used it because he didn’t like the sand touching his hands.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9488592478/" title="2013-08-08 15.26.13"><img alt="2013-08-08 15.26.13" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/3729/9488592478_c02d1196a5.jpg" /></a><br />
Parker and Grandma.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9488591212/" title="2013-08-08 15.19.38"><img alt="2013-08-08 15.19.38" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/7340/9488591212_570744abe8.jpg" /></a><br />
Anna digging some more.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9488588698/" title="2013-08-08 15.05.51"><img alt="2013-08-08 15.05.51" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/7322/9488588698_165ca78b1f.jpg" /></a><br />
It rained again, but this time it was right on the edge of us and it didn't storm. So, we stayed. Eventually we went back to Grandma’s house to meet up with Angela and have some dinner before returning to the camper. <br />
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We had a great trip!Kate Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11220000354714739004noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3002895627573558321.post-20070883257819245752013-08-11T14:59:00.001-05:002013-08-11T14:59:31.782-05:00Luke’s 4th Birthday!<p>Luke turned 4 on August 3, 2013.   He was so cute while we were singing to him.  A few days before his birthday, he looked at me and said, “Happy Mother’s Day Mama” and I said, “Thank you, but it isn’t Mother’s Day, but it is your birthday in three days.”  As sweet as possible, he said, “Oh, well happy birthday to me!”</p> <p><a title="P1040818" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9485774233/"><img border="0" alt="P1040818" src="http://static.flickr.com/3666/9485774233_1e920564c5.jpg" /></a><a title="P1040817" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9488568692/"><img border="0" alt="P1040817" src="http://static.flickr.com/7328/9488568692_951dcd088c.jpg" /></a></p> <p>He was so excited for his birthday that before I had put any icing on the cake and I was letting them cool, he said, “Oh Mama! My cake is beautiful!”  I love that kid!</p> Kate Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11220000354714739004noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3002895627573558321.post-38108252852516247632013-08-11T14:44:00.001-05:002013-08-11T15:52:17.885-05:00Family Canoe Trip 2013Yesterday was our annual Family Canoe Trip with the Rushing and Zuhlke families plus a few others. Many memories were made and lots of pictures and video were taken. Will put together some of the footage to make this short video.<br />
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<iframe width="560" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/YYPQ0wj693E?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></center>
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To begin with (and because it is a Saturday in August) it took us almost two hours to get signed up, paid, everyone where they were supposed to be and the rest of us transported to the drop off site. Here is a picture of Shannyn, Granny, Tina, and Hillary waiting…and waiting…and waiting for the bus.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9483540916/" title="Family Canoe Trip 2013"><img alt="Family Canoe Trip 2013" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/7408/9483540916_c455d26398.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><br />
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After we finally made it to the drop-off site, loaded up all of our coolers and stuff in the canoes, made sure everyone had a tube or place to be, and got on our way we stopped at the very first island just around the corner to eat lunch. By this time it was almost noon. <br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9480775751/" title="Family Canoe Trip 2013"><img alt="Family Canoe Trip 2013" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/5348/9480775751_c2e7e840fb.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9480772151/" title="Family Canoe Trip 2013"><img alt="Family Canoe Trip 2013" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/3795/9480772151_a1bb75191d.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9483559318/" title="Family Canoe Trip 2013"><img alt="Family Canoe Trip 2013" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/2878/9483559318_55df72cb20.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><br />
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After loading up and moving again….we stopped again…<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9480763867/" title="Family Canoe Trip 2013"><img alt="Family Canoe Trip 2013" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/7453/9480763867_cc4a49800c.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><br />
and again…<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9483575642/" title="Family Canoe Trip 2013"><img alt="Family Canoe Trip 2013" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/7333/9483575642_486387b856.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><br />
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And then we ate again…<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9480782121/" title="Family Canoe Trip 2013"><img alt="Family Canoe Trip 2013" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/3783/9480782121_53e61fc3c3.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><br />
and again…<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9480783029/" title="Family Canoe Trip 2013"><img alt="Family Canoe Trip 2013" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/5506/9480783029_8df4f6fefc.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><br />
And then, when we made it to party island, we ate again. This time it was some of Will’s home grown watermelon.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9483614540/" title="Family Canoe Trip 2013"><img alt="Family Canoe Trip 2013" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/7328/9483614540_e1a5314b67.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><br />
We ate a lot!<br />
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And then there were some of us (Parker and Tina), who got stuck in the trees…<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9480819317/" title="Family Canoe Trip 2013"><img alt="Family Canoe Trip 2013" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/5531/9480819317_97c19c094d.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><br />
and stumps….<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9483588474/" title="Family Canoe Trip 2013"><img alt="Family Canoe Trip 2013" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/3734/9483588474_a620385036.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><br />
and bushes…<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9480812531/" title="Family Canoe Trip 2013"><img alt="Family Canoe Trip 2013" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/3784/9480812531_103e0e412a.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><br />
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After the first hour, it started to rain….<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9480810083/" title="Family Canoe Trip 2013"><img alt="Family Canoe Trip 2013" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/2873/9480810083_814a4234d4.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><br />
and rain some more…<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9483600150/" title="Family Canoe Trip 2013"><img alt="Family Canoe Trip 2013" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/7371/9483600150_5901a11ed9.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><br />
and some more…<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9483589626/" title="Family Canoe Trip 2013"><img alt="Family Canoe Trip 2013" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/2852/9483589626_1cf699b383.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><br />
and some more…<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9480794643/" title="Family Canoe Trip 2013"><img alt="Family Canoe Trip 2013" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/3763/9480794643_89e92a88fd.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><br />
and some of us thought they could hide from it…<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9480806825/" title="Family Canoe Trip 2013"><img alt="Family Canoe Trip 2013" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/2831/9480806825_7059ce1bbe.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><br />
and then since our 20% chance turned into a 100% chance of all day showers (thank the Lord it wasn’t thundering and lightning) we had no choice but to make the most of it and have fun.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9480811313/" title="Family Canoe Trip 2013"><img alt="Family Canoe Trip 2013" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/5508/9480811313_472125411b.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><br />
So, even in the rain we had a great time. Thank you Aunt Shannyn for letting Luke sit in the kayak with you and play with the paddles. He LOVED it! And several times has told us that he is a good kayaker now.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9483609818/" title="Family Canoe Trip 2013"><img alt="Family Canoe Trip 2013" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/5482/9483609818_7d164ceac8.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><br />
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Of course all of the kids wanted to play in the kayak.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9483606666/" title="Family Canoe Trip 2013"><img alt="Family Canoe Trip 2013" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/3738/9483606666_f768ce1865.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9480813633/" title="Family Canoe Trip 2013"><img alt="Family Canoe Trip 2013" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/7281/9480813633_54bdf7461f.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><br />
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Luke and Aunt Jess tubing.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9483596884/" title="Family Canoe Trip 2013"><img alt="Family Canoe Trip 2013" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/3740/9483596884_7d1c091162.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><br />
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Steve, Angela, Graci, and Granny floating.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9480803305/" title="Family Canoe Trip 2013"><img alt="Family Canoe Trip 2013" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/3795/9480803305_2460118bd4.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><br />
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Anna floating.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9480801339/" title="Family Canoe Trip 2013"><img alt="Family Canoe Trip 2013" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/7419/9480801339_6fd87f026c.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><br />
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Carter navigating around the stumps.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9480799511/" title="Family Canoe Trip 2013"><img alt="Family Canoe Trip 2013" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/3718/9480799511_d18d60fe86.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><br />
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Hannah and her friend, whose name I never caught but, Angela kept calling ‘pee girl.’<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9480795789/" title="Family Canoe Trip 2013"><img alt="Family Canoe Trip 2013" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/2885/9480795789_43e283aa0c.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><br />
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Of course, Will and Steve had to find a branch to jump out of. And then coerce all of the kids to do the same. I will give them credit though, they check for stumps, sticks, debris, and how deep it is before they do any jumping. And everyone goes feet first.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9480780837/" title="Family Canoe Trip 2013"><img alt="Family Canoe Trip 2013" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/5512/9480780837_fb5dff571a.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><br />
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This girl, however, jumped off of something and dislocated her finger. So, Mike put it back in place for her. Always handy to have an EMT around. Mike tried to talk the dad through how to do it, but the girl would rather have a stranger do it than her dad. <br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9483580792/" title="Family Canoe Trip 2013"><img alt="Family Canoe Trip 2013" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/3717/9483580792_fd76237440.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><br />
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Scott and Hillary taking it easy.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9483552024/" title="Family Canoe Trip 2013"><img alt="Family Canoe Trip 2013" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/5499/9483552024_39a15fe094.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><br />
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Donna relaxing.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9480757505/" title="Family Canoe Trip 2013"><img alt="Family Canoe Trip 2013" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/3714/9480757505_cecede4515.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><br />
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Somehow, Steve got booted from his float with Angela so that Luke could ride in his place. And yes, the entire group behind them belongs to our party as well. We were a big group coming down the river.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9480754239/" title="Family Canoe Trip 2013"><img alt="Family Canoe Trip 2013" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/7296/9480754239_f753d17195.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><br />
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And here is our group shot that we take every year.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9480791457/" title="Family Canoe Trip 2013"><img alt="Family Canoe Trip 2013" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/7432/9480791457_b689c69756.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a>Kate Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11220000354714739004noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3002895627573558321.post-65571586411445269722013-07-31T11:06:00.001-05:002013-07-31T11:06:57.147-05:00Isabelle is 10!<p>On July 15, 2013 Isabelle turned 10. I can’t believe it has been 10 years since she was born. All the things that have happened and we have been a part of in the last ten years. It think about people who are 100 years old and all of the things that they have seen and done. Then, it just boggles my mind to think about eternity in heaven.  Isabelle’s ten years are just a flicker of a thought in that time frame. But how special they have been to us so far. I can’t wait to see how God uses Isabelle’s loving, giving, stubborn, and willing to do what she needs to attitude to further his kingdom.  </p> <p> </p> <p>Here she is with her Moshi Monster cake. She had a great day of swimming with friends. Thanks to all who came to celebrate her special day!</p> <p> </p> <p><a title="2013-07-16 10.09.48" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9404963628/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="2013-07-16 10.09.48" src="http://static.flickr.com/7365/9404963628_8319855ae4.jpg" /></a></p> Kate Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11220000354714739004noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3002895627573558321.post-44375172263561960962013-07-31T10:57:00.001-05:002013-07-31T10:57:07.860-05:00More Beach Time–Summer 2013<p>Last weekend we spent a few days in Gulf Shores with Joshua, Sarah, and the kids.</p> <p> </p> <p>The first night we were there the kids couldn’t resist so we walked out to the beach to see the sunset and let the kids play for a bit. After playing for a while, we decided to take a walk down the beach. Upon returning to our chairs and toys we saw people pointing and fishing about 15 feet out in the water right in front of our stuff. When we looked to see what they were pointing at we could see two sharks circling and swimming about another 20 feet out in the water. I was ready to go home at this point. It wasn’t too far from where my kids and husband had been playing about thirty minutes before.</p> <p> </p> <p>The next morning, we attempted the beach again because my kids are addicted. The water was smooth, beautiful and very enticing. So we played for several hours. I love morning beaches.  No sharks this time but we did see a few dolphins stirring up fish. </p> <p> </p> <p>At one point in about three feet of water I put my shin down on the sand and hit something extremely hard. When it dawned on me that the sand shouldn’t be that hard I looked down and there was a horseshoe crab right underneath me. I didn’t realize how hard those little knuckle things are on their backs.</p> <p> </p> <p>We thought we were going to try a local favorite and eat at Lulu’s one night but in our efforts to get five kids ready and cleaned up from a day at the beach and fishing, we forgot that it was a Friday night right at five o’ clock. It was a 2 hour wait.  Knowing that Luke’s blood sugar couldn’t wait that long, we decided to try Lamberts. It was 1 hour and 45 minutes, so we just ate at Cracker Barrel. We are close enough that we can try Lulu’s again some other time.</p> <p> </p> <p>Here are a few pictures from the weekend.  Charleigh eventually got used to the water in the pool. But she never did come around to the beach water, or sand for that matter.</p> <p><a title="100_0066" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9402217955/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="100_0066" src="http://static.flickr.com/3690/9402217955_f083f2d32b.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Staring contest? Or is she just looking at her reflection in her daddy’s glasses? </p> <p><a title="DSCF4662" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9404975090/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="DSCF4662" src="http://static.flickr.com/5529/9404975090_b3668c66f5.jpg" /></a></p> <p>I think Luke enjoyed having someone younger than him to take care of since Riley doesn’t much want anyone’s help. She wants to do everything for herself.  However, I think that between Luke, Connor, Isabelle and Anna, Charleigh may have had enough help by the time we left.</p> <p><a title="DSCF4660" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9404972514/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="DSCF4660" src="http://static.flickr.com/2857/9404972514_affe06a7e6.jpg" /></a></p> <p>These two looked like two old men telling tales about what they were catching. I kept hearing ‘hammerhead shark’ come up in the conversation.  The only thing they did catch was a sting ray and a very small fish.</p> <p><a title="DSCF4646" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9404970530/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="DSCF4646" src="http://static.flickr.com/3802/9404970530_f0b344a129.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Isabelle and Anna never did catch anything but, they enjoyed trying.</p> <p><a title="DSCF4632" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9402210523/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="DSCF4632" src="http://static.flickr.com/2873/9402210523_0dfecb745b.jpg" /></a><a title="DSCF4631" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9404966940/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="DSCF4631" src="http://static.flickr.com/7312/9404966940_5fbd6c69a9.jpg" /></a></p> <p>I never thought my kids would love the beach so much.</p> <p><a title="100_0032 (2)" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9404966434/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="100_0032 (2)" src="http://static.flickr.com/2805/9404966434_04b9b883a5.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Luke and his daddy.</p> <p><a title="100_0009" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9404965794/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="100_0009" src="http://static.flickr.com/7358/9404965794_f7c1f9a80f.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Luke and Connor.</p> <p><a title="100_0004" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9404965412/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="100_0004" src="http://static.flickr.com/3668/9404965412_3063455d2f.jpg" /></a></p> <p>My three again!</p> <p><a title="100_0002" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9404964682/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="100_0002" src="http://static.flickr.com/5466/9404964682_326e009606.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Luke thought he was going to catch a sting ray.</p> <p><a title="100_0001" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9404964122/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="100_0001" src="http://static.flickr.com/3702/9404964122_11605a17c8.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Thanks Joshua and Sarah for the invite. It was a great couple of days!</p> Kate Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11220000354714739004noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3002895627573558321.post-78426613121052457502013-07-16T15:35:00.001-05:002013-07-16T15:35:27.095-05:00July 4th, 2013<p>Here are a few pictures from our July 4th holiday.</p> <p> </p> <p>Isabelle, Anna, and Luke with their cousins Riley and Jackson.</p> <p><a title="IMG_6840" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9302338260/"><img border="0" alt="IMG_6840" src="http://static.flickr.com/7427/9302338260_cb2de5fb09.jpg" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p>Nana and Paw with the grandkids…</p> <p><a title="IMG_6852" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9299556089/"><img style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_6852" src="http://static.flickr.com/7422/9299556089_bb269542ec.jpg" /></a></p> <p>We started out taking pictures on a bench with ferns behind us…</p> <p><a title="IMG_6815" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9299550791/"><img border="0" alt="IMG_6815" src="http://static.flickr.com/3762/9299550791_03299953d1.jpg" /></a></p> <p>And then someone had the brilliant idea of putting us all in a tree…</p> <p><a title="IMG_6912" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9299562577/"><img border="0" alt="IMG_6912" src="http://static.flickr.com/3692/9299562577_1da7c067fe.jpg" /></a></p> <p><a title="IMG_6916" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9299565633/"><img style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_6916" src="http://static.flickr.com/7406/9299565633_075e1fd487.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Here are Will, Amy, Riley, and Jackson in a family photo.  Isn’t Jackson’s smile adorable?</p> <p><a title="IMG_6935" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9302353738/"><img style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_6935" src="http://static.flickr.com/5525/9302353738_9d98547552.jpg" /></a></p> <p>This is Charleigh (my cousin’s little girl) with her beautiful eyes…</p> <p><a title="IMG_6971" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9302355770/"><img style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_6971" src="http://static.flickr.com/3753/9302355770_156b95ab15.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Joshua, I have to say, you are looking a little old in this picture.</p> <p><a title="IMG_6972" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9302358090/"><img style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_6972" src="http://static.flickr.com/7313/9302358090_0e2c8698c7.jpg" /></a></p> Kate Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11220000354714739004noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3002895627573558321.post-81218421522895992772013-07-16T10:45:00.001-05:002013-07-16T10:45:23.029-05:00Mission Fuge 2013<p>A month or two ago, our Youth Pastor began asking for a female chaperone or two to go to youth camp since the person that was supposed to go was unable to at the last minute. I waited a few weeks to see if anyone else wanted to go.  Finally, about two weeks ago during VBS, I agreed to go.  I’ll admit that I wasn’t crazy about the idea but I didn’t want the kids to not be able to go.  So I began praying and asking God to use this trip to touch their hearts as well as mine. </p> <p> </p> <p>In order for me to go, my mom had to come stay with the kids during the days and evenings while Will was working. He had a crazy busy week.  Last Monday, we left Jay at 5AM.  After talking to my mom for breakfast and lunch, Luke’s blood sugar had gotten messed up and he had to have some corrections. Since I was already nervous about being away from him for so long, the doubts began to creep in. I was ready to come home.  After we finally arrived at Belmont University in Nashville, TN around 1PM, I quickly realized that I had bitten off more than I thought I could chew. We had an issue with one youth doing something they weren’t supposed to and I had to be the bad guy; another forgot to take some medicine and I had to make four very long treks across the BU campus; it was hot and rainy; I forgot close-toed shoes and realized I’d have to go to Wal-mart after 11PM to find some shoes; I found out I was going to have to play games and be in the heat every day in an un-air conditioned gym with the kids we were ministering to; I wasn’t crazy about some of the kids in my group or the group leader; our bathrooms in the dorm were moldy and gross; and to top it all off there was NO Dr. Pepper for me to drink. I was very grouchy, unhappy, and tired that night when I went to bed. I prayed the entire time I was trekking around the campus and all day and night that God would use me. But I was very disappointed by the end of that night.</p> <p> </p> <p>The next day I was nervous about going to site with people that I didn’t know as I am not a very outgoing and chatty person. It is hard for me to talk with strangers.  Our camp pastor for the week was amazing and the worship leaders were great. I got so much out of hearing them. I continued to pray that God would use me and our teenagers would grow in Him.  I found that I don’t have a problem talking to kids; just adults.</p> <p> </p> <p>Most of our youth kids came back from their sites talking about how much their kids loved on them and played with them and all the fun that they had. Our kids were difficult, stubborn, and would run off any time you tried to have a conversation with them.  So by the end of the second day, I was still frustrated, but things had gotten a little better. </p> <p> </p> <p>By the end of the week, I knew that God was using me and teaching me. There were two kids that touched me the most. One was Paul; he is disabled, but one day at lunch he told me and another chaperone about the story of Moses. He talked for thirty minutes about how God used Moses to free the Israelites.  He went into detail about the burning bush and God calling Moses,  the plagues, their escape, being chased by the Pharaoh, the pillars of smoke and fire, wandering in the wilderness, and his brother Aaron. It was truly amazing. I don’t think half of our teenagers on the trip could have told the stories with as much detail as he did.</p> <p> </p> <p>The other kid was a little girl named Marissa. She started out the week by lying to me about her name and age. She spent most of the time saying, “nope” to everything that I asked or said to her.  She would walk by and mess up the games of any other kid in the building. She would stick her arm in the jump ropes to mess other people up, she would knock down the blocks that others were playing with. She just spent the first three days being difficult.  I could see that she was trying to push people away and see if they were going to keep being her friend in spite of her behavior.   I refused to give up. (For those of you that don’t know, I have a little stubborn streak of my own.) I encouraged her to be nice even when the others weren’t nice to her, and I told her that I wouldn’t be mad at her or ignore her just because she did something wrong. I told her that Jesus was the same; no matter what she did, He was still going to love her.  I told her that even after I left on Saturday I would continue to pray for her.  By the end of the last day, she had decided that she was my friend. She asked to play with me and every time we got separated she sought me out. When she left, I asked her what she would remember about me, and she said that she would remember that I was sweet and her friend, and that Jesus loved her no matter what, just like I did.  I knew that if for no other reason, she was the reason that God put me on this trip.  </p> <p> </p> <p>But He didn’t stop there.  He showed me that I had misjudged some of the girls that were in our youth group as well as our camp group leader.  I was able to make a few more friendships with some of the girls and guys. Two of our girls accepted Christ.</p> <p> </p> <p>Another lady in our church answered God’s call to attend camp with our teenagers. Her name was Mrs. Voncile and she is 82 years old. An extremely funny, nice, and up for anything lady that likes to travel.   At one point this week she was doing the chainsaw dance with some of our kids and another chaperone. She held her own with our girls and she refused to sit in the room and not participate.   Belmont has some pretty big hills and after she had leg cramps the first night, I told her that she didn’t have to go back to site. I would talk to her leader and she could stay in the room and rest. She said, “No, I want to go because I don’t want people to think I am old.”  She was truly up for anything and she never complained. </p> <p> </p> <p>Each day during camp, they gave a hashtag challenge  to choose a few pictures to put on the screen the next day.  Tuesday was #nashfugetebowtuesday.  They wanted pictures of everyone doing the Tebow pose. Our picture was one of the five chosen for the next day.  </p> <p> </p> <p><a title="2013-07-09 20.07.36" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9297125666/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="2013-07-09 20.07.36" src="http://static.flickr.com/3786/9297125666_8fd8113923.jpg" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p>Like I said, she absolutely was up for anything.</p> <p> </p> <p>Since we had connecting bathrooms with some of the girls, I have about 20 or 30 pictures like this on my phone.</p> <p> </p> <p><a title="2013-07-11 16.19.42" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9294347355/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="2013-07-11 16.19.42" src="http://static.flickr.com/5335/9294347355_32d5b2d087.jpg" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p>After the girls realized that I was incredibly ticklish, they would not leave me alone.  So, after many threats, I told Shila, the one in the middle, that if she did it again I was going to put my foot in her face since she is horrified of feet.   She didn’t believe me…</p> <p> </p> <p><a title="2013-07-13 04.02.18" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9294347997/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="2013-07-13 04.02.18" src="http://static.flickr.com/5496/9294347997_b836b46a4e.jpg" /></a></p> <p>I have a picture to prove it.</p> <p> </p> <p>The campus was beautiful and we had a wonderful trip. </p> <p><a title="2013-07-09 18.00.12" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9297124608/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="2013-07-09 18.00.12" src="http://static.flickr.com/3674/9297124608_6d1e24b399.jpg" /></a></p> <p>I am truly blessed for having gone on this trip. God used the kids at site, the kids in our youth group, the camp pastor, the worship leaders, our other chaperones, and my camp group leader to touch my life.   Thank you to Will and my mom or making it possible for me to go.</p> Kate Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11220000354714739004noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3002895627573558321.post-47993583400301597822013-06-17T19:46:00.002-05:002013-06-17T19:46:49.476-05:00This Year's GardenLast year I had several people comment to me about the weeds in my garden. This year, I have worked hard to keep the weeds out and make sure the plants are well fertilized. Today I walked out to the garden, after a week from being away, just to check on the plants. I decided to take a few pictures and post a blog since the garden looks so good. <br />
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This year our garden has two sections. One sections is just for watermelons. Well, I planted a few sunflowers for so the kids could watch them grow tall. The girls wanted to make scarecrows for each garden, but I don’t think the birds are scared. They mostly use it for a perch. <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9072609872/" title="Our Garden (June 2013)"><img alt="Our Garden (June 2013)" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/3703/9072609872_5fd97d48dd.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><br />
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I have planted both Sugar Baby and Jubilee Watermelons. Here is a picture on a jubilee just getting started.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9072607526/" title="Our Garden (June 2013)"><img alt="Our Garden (June 2013)" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/5346/9072607526_f24eafc5c4.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><br />
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The sunflowers have grown taller than I expected. They are just beginning to start producing seeds.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9072608326/" title="Our Garden (June 2013)"><img alt="Our Garden (June 2013)" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/3677/9072608326_a9ebe7ffc4.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9070374807/" title="Our Garden (June 2013)">The other section has peppers, tomatoes, potatoes, cucumbers, and onions.</a><br />
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<img alt="Our Garden (June 2013)" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/7301/9070374807_03237acd43.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /><br />
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This year I planted three types of tomatoes: Beefsteak, Big Boy, and Cherry tomatoes. This plant alone must have over 100 cherry tomatoes. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9070384691/" title="Our Garden (June 2013)"><img alt="Our Garden (June 2013)" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/5447/9070384691_c2d3730b3a.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><br />
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My beefsteak tomatoes are almost ready to start picking. There are eight beefsteak plants in total. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9072606282/" title="Our Garden (June 2013)"><img alt="Our Garden (June 2013)" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/2828/9072606282_25af2ce7cc.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><br />
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I have planted a hybrid sweetpepper and a hybrid Jalapeño. My sweet peppers are just getting started, but I have already begun picking the jalapeños. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9070377625/" title="Our Garden (June 2013)"><img alt="Our Garden (June 2013)" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/2865/9070377625_a2a4b93359.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><br />
This is the only cucumber so far. It is almost ready to be picked. <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/9070376175/" title="Our Garden (June 2013)"><img alt="Our Garden (June 2013)" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/3756/9070376175_c122dc7aa5.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><br />
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I have already dug up over 50 pounds of potatoes. I have planted more and don’t expect them to be ready for another month or so. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14692175604434395709noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3002895627573558321.post-32688769060324003812013-06-06T16:33:00.001-05:002013-06-06T16:33:26.843-05:00Track Meet 2013<p>The kids track meet that is usually done in April or early may was rained out. They finally made it up last week.  It was hot to say the least.</p> <p> </p> <p>Isabelle’s group was first thing in the morning. They ran the 50 yard, 100 yard, and two relays!</p> <p> </p> <p>Isabelle got third place in the 50 yard dash and fourth place in the 100 yard. </p> <p> </p> <p><a title="IMG_6312" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8971817927/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_6312" src="http://static.flickr.com/8414/8971817927_45d0e953e6.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Not sure about the shorter relay, but for the longer (400m?) relay race that she ran with her friends they got second place. </p> <p> </p> <p><a title="IMG_6371" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8971834397/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_6371" src="http://static.flickr.com/5334/8971834397_d15e1e071d.jpg" /></a></p> <p><a title="IMG_6378" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8973032142/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_6378" src="http://static.flickr.com/2832/8973032142_ab40ec8933.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Here is her teammates/friends, Christa, Jada, and Skylar.</p> <p><a title="IMG_6366" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8971831569/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_6366" src="http://static.flickr.com/8403/8971831569_17398f64b4.jpg" /></a></p> <p>I just had to post this next picture. Isabelle’s friend Jada, during her first race, ran so hard she ran out of her shoe. She kept going and finished the race laughing. This was great!</p> <p><a title="IMG_6330" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8973018118/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_6330" src="http://static.flickr.com/5337/8973018118_3a469bd59e.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Here are the big girls cheering on their little sisters!</p> <p><a title="IMG_6439" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8971841293/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_6439" src="http://static.flickr.com/8396/8971841293_22cc9c8de9.jpg" /></a></p> <p>The little kids ran in the 50 and 100 yard dash. Anna came in fourth in the 50 and first in the 100. She too, ran with a smile all the way down the track.</p> <p><a title="IMG_6476" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8973038948/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_6476" src="http://static.flickr.com/5461/8973038948_ff23f6a1c9.jpg" /></a></p> <p>I love Isabelle’s face in the background of this picture.</p> <p><a title="IMG_6481" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8971928189/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_6481" src="http://static.flickr.com/5442/8971928189_c0611e0f41.jpg" /></a></p> <p>It seems like such a long way for those babies to run.</p> <p><a title="IMG_6458" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8971908109/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_6458" src="http://static.flickr.com/5454/8971908109_476de23772.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Luke was a little bored by the time we got to the second group of kids.</p> <p><a title="IMG_6362" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8971828877/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_6362" src="http://static.flickr.com/3733/8971828877_a1bc3454d8.jpg" /></a></p> <p>But he started out being sweet and picking me flowers…</p> <p><a title="IMG_6360" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8971826075/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_6360" src="http://static.flickr.com/2845/8971826075_62cbe662b3.jpg" /></a></p> <p>And trying to steal the cones.</p> <p><a title="IMG_6298" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8973009206/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_6298" src="http://static.flickr.com/3689/8973009206_0cc9ae76ce.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Jenny helped us keep track of Luke.</p> <p><a title="IMG_6505" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8973041598/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_6505" src="http://static.flickr.com/2827/8973041598_e25e821727.jpg" /></a></p> Kate Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11220000354714739004noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3002895627573558321.post-27871492631182361602013-06-06T16:09:00.001-05:002013-06-06T16:09:31.186-05:00First Cookout of the Summer<p>In case you all hadn’t noticed I am trying to catch up on some posts that I have been meaning to write.</p> <p> </p> <p>Mother’s Day weekend the Rushing families decided to get together for a cookout at Mike and Jessica’s house.  It was a somewhat rainy day and the pool was still cold. But that didn’t stop us!</p> <p> </p> <p>Here is Will grilling. The only apron they had was a little girly, but he is secure in his manhood and had no problem putting on that flowery, ruffled apron.</p> <p><a title="IMG_4960" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8970500015/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_4960" src="http://static.flickr.com/8406/8970500015_0e71aec144.jpg" /></a></p> <p>There were kids everywhere. Matthew is showing off some of his diving skills here.</p> <p><a title="IMG_4940" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8970490935/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_4940" src="http://static.flickr.com/3811/8970490935_46be530515.jpg" /></a></p> <p>We tried and tried to get Steve to look up for this picture of him and Angela. All we could get was the eyeballs. </p> <p><a title="IMG_4937" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8971679646/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_4937" src="http://static.flickr.com/2813/8971679646_2a7b355206.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Four girls! What are we going to do when they are all teenagers?</p> <p><a title="IMG_4932" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8970482097/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_4932" src="http://static.flickr.com/2834/8970482097_297e594646.jpg" /></a></p> <p>These two took some time getting in the water to begin with. It was just a little too cold to jump right in.</p> <p><a title="IMG_4927" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8970472201/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_4927" src="http://static.flickr.com/2805/8970472201_6d611066cb.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Here they are trying to get warm after getting out of the water.</p> <p><a title="IMG_4978" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8970522249/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_4978" src="http://static.flickr.com/7330/8970522249_302757d3ee.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Look at these three!  </p> <p><a title="IMG_4992" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8970531031/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_4992" src="http://static.flickr.com/3669/8970531031_4bd08d98f7.jpg" /></a></p> <p>This is the one that made us all scream. Will told Parker to try to stand on the board so that he could get this shot. All of the Mama’s about lost it when we realized how close he was to the side of the pool. Thank goodness he didn’t fall backwards and bonk his head.</p> <p><a title="IMG_4987" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8970527123/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_4987" src="http://static.flickr.com/3752/8970527123_7f3212d5dc.jpg" /></a></p> <p>No words needed.</p> <p><a title="IMG_4975" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8970519227/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_4975" src="http://static.flickr.com/5325/8970519227_6d36970ec6.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Matthew and Luke playing.</p> <p><a title="IMG_4973" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8971709506/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_4973" src="http://static.flickr.com/3673/8971709506_7d0fe87d73.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Luke loves these fountains!</p> <p><a title="IMG_4969" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8970508863/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_4969" src="http://static.flickr.com/3711/8970508863_37d2b88769.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Mommy and daughter!</p> <p><a title="IMG_4964" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8970504459/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_4964" src="http://static.flickr.com/7313/8970504459_66d754b027.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Luke and the monkey bars.</p> <p><a title="IMG_5053" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8970560307/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_5053" src="http://static.flickr.com/2877/8970560307_d81dbdce48.jpg" /></a></p> <p>I am not sure what is going on in this picture but is sure looks like trouble!</p> <p><a title="IMG_5035" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8970555247/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_5035" src="http://static.flickr.com/5456/8970555247_d2d5aff94c.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Happy in-laws!</p> <p><a title="IMG_5029" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8970551271/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_5029" src="http://static.flickr.com/3823/8970551271_bcdc14d168.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Grandma and some of the girls.</p> <p><a title="IMG_5025" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8970547275/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_5025" src="http://static.flickr.com/8264/8970547275_5b3c67045e.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Food, food, food, and more food!</p> <p><a title="IMG_5022" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8970543911/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_5022" src="http://static.flickr.com/3747/8970543911_8159dab975.jpg" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p><a title="IMG_5021" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8971734868/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_5021" src="http://static.flickr.com/3805/8971734868_63acb5615a.jpg" /></a></p> <p><a title="IMG_4988" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8972835146/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_4988" src="http://static.flickr.com/2894/8972835146_877b9cd4fd.jpg" /></a></p> <p><a title="IMG_5045" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8971663415/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_5045" src="http://static.flickr.com/7399/8971663415_afea1fa388.jpg" /></a></p> <p><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_4943" src="http://static.flickr.com/8413/8970494571_7ab77a2f00.jpg" /></p> <p><a title="IMG_5042" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8971660401/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_5042" src="http://static.flickr.com/5344/8971660401_f33966459c.jpg" /></a></p> <p>I could have sworn there were more pictures of people eating. It seems like that is all we did all day.</p> <p> </p> <p>Lots of good times in the water.</p> <p><a title="IMG_4957" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8972825114/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_4957" src="http://static.flickr.com/3688/8972825114_79f10e284c.jpg" /></a></p> <p><a title="IMG_4951" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8972821556/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_4951" src="http://static.flickr.com/8255/8972821556_e047f505b5.jpg" /></a></p> <p><a title="IMG_4948" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8971625557/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_4948" src="http://static.flickr.com/7366/8971625557_d281903270.jpg" /></a></p> <p><a title="IMG_4930" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8971620929/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_4930" src="http://static.flickr.com/7307/8971620929_ddd767deba.jpg" /></a></p> <p><a title="IMG_5050" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8972917980/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_5050" src="http://static.flickr.com/7450/8972917980_b64b148375.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Again, no words!</p> <p><a title="IMG_5007" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8970538095/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_5007" src="http://static.flickr.com/7298/8970538095_376257a34f.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Luke and Uncle Mike in their muscle shirts. Luke is showing off his muscles!</p> <p><a title="IMG_5063" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8971757484/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_5063" src="http://static.flickr.com/7292/8971757484_5d527bf9a7.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Plant one on her Jess! Angela, you look like you are about to deck her. Anyone else want to play ‘caption this’ photo?</p> <p><a title="IMG_5030" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8972849232/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_5030" src="http://static.flickr.com/5337/8972849232_7346472ae6.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Here, they were just all snacking on the French fries.</p> <p><a title="IMG_5002" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8971653213/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_5002" src="http://static.flickr.com/5339/8971653213_37f050fe85.jpg" /></a></p> <p>I can’t tell if they think they are sitting around a campfire, waiting on food, or just trying to stay warm.</p> <p><a title="IMG_4999" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8971646331/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_4999" src="http://static.flickr.com/3705/8971646331_0a648398c3.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Parker is just like his dad and uncles….full of hot air.</p> <p><a title="IMG_4986" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8971639167/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_4986" src="http://static.flickr.com/3816/8971639167_2c9300eae6.jpg" /></a></p> <p>It is still a show every time Luke gets his blood sugar checked. </p> <p><a title="IMG_4985" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8971636227/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_4985" src="http://static.flickr.com/5449/8971636227_263a940294.jpg" /></a></p> <p>What a fun day! Thanks Mike and Jessica for inviting us. Thanks everyone for the food. And thanks Steve and Will for cooking!</p> Kate Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11220000354714739004noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3002895627573558321.post-41514456926441226182013-06-06T15:24:00.001-05:002013-06-06T15:24:06.522-05:002013 Awards Ceremony at Jay Elementary<p>First of all, let me say that I am so unbelievably proud of my kids! I know that they both worked extremely hard this year. </p> <p> </p> <p>Kindergarten through second grade was first thing in the morning on June 3, 2013.   Here is Anna and Mr. Carnley waiting while Mrs. Upton calls her awards. </p> <p><a title="IMG_1300" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8970576673/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_1300" src="http://static.flickr.com/3670/8970576673_b41c8b02fd.jpg" /></a></p> <p>She received a Citizenship Award, A Honor Roll all year, meeting her AR Yearly Goal and her AR Each Nine Weeks Goal award.</p> <p><a title="P1040760" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8970580559/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="P1040760" src="http://static.flickr.com/5332/8970580559_d6bbdf835b.jpg" /></a><a title="IMG_1303" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8970578305/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_1303" src="http://static.flickr.com/7341/8970578305_59d726fd9e.jpg" /></a></p> <p>This medal is her AR Yearly Goal award.</p> <p><a title="2013-06-03 09.21.37" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8970582223/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="2013-06-03 09.21.37" src="http://static.flickr.com/5350/8970582223_2bf09d0a8b.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Isabelle and Mr. Carnley waiting on Mrs. Toyama to call her awards.</p> <p><a title="IMG_1313" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8971778074/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_1313" src="http://static.flickr.com/7341/8971778074_ac8c9b878c.jpg" /></a></p> <p>She surprised me with all of the awards that she received. She got a Citizenship Award, A Honor Roll all Year, AR Yearly Goal, AR Each Nine Weeks Goal, Highest AR Points in her class, Top Science Student, Top Language Arts Student, and Top Social Studies Student. She also received an award called the Sunshine State Young Readers Award. This is for her reading a list of 15 books set aside by some committee. I can tell you they weren’t books that I would have picked for my kids, but she wanted to read them all just to say she did it.  She was also recognized for being the only kid that made a 100% score on all of the tests on these books.</p> <p><a title="IMG_1316" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8971779742/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_1316" src="http://static.flickr.com/7341/8971779742_6c094b93dd.jpg" /></a></p> <p><a title="IMG_1321" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8970587887/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_1321" src="http://static.flickr.com/2838/8970587887_af71e6113b.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Isabelle has come a long way. I remember at the end of the first grade year, wondering whether or not we messed up by letting her start school when she did and not holding her back.</p> <p><a title="2013-06-03 14.07.31" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8971783910/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="2013-06-03 14.07.31" src="http://static.flickr.com/7410/8971783910_1766a3b392.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Again, I am so proud of them! I have some pretty great kids! And thanks Jenny for helping me take pictures since Will wasn’t there and I had Luke by myself.</p> Kate Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11220000354714739004noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3002895627573558321.post-76451723143090261532013-06-06T15:04:00.001-05:002013-06-06T15:04:45.224-05:00Texas and Graduation 2013<p>Most of you have seen the photos on Facebook, but for those of you that haven’t here are some of the pictures and stories from our recent trip to Texas for Will’s graduation from Baylor University.</p> <p> </p> <p>We left Jay, at 3:30 in the morning and drove to Mobile to pick up Nana.  After a long day’s drive we made it to Waco about 14 hours later. It usually takes 12, but with the kids we added two more hours to the trip.  Go figure!</p> <p> </p> <p>The kids thought we were there when we made it to Texas. I hated to break it to them that we had another 5-6 hours of driving.  Luke must have asked a hundred times if we were to Texas yet; even once we were in Texas.</p> <p><a title="2013-05-15 11.21.56" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8972070792/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="2013-05-15 11.21.56" src="http://static.flickr.com/3821/8972070792_ba242ba272.jpg" /></a></p> <p>The first day we were there we went to the Cameron Park Zoo in Waco, Texas.  It was a sweet little zoo with lots of shade and animals. </p> <p><a title="Texas Trip" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8872366599/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="Texas Trip" src="http://static.flickr.com/7409/8872366599_90de78586a.jpg" /></a></p> <p>The zoo had these pretty little statues all over the place. The kids wanted pictures with each of them.</p> <p><a title="Texas Trip" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8872374451/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="Texas Trip" src="http://static.flickr.com/7382/8872374451_592d2c927b.jpg" /></a></p> <p><a title="Texas Trip" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8872362663/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="Texas Trip" src="http://static.flickr.com/5334/8872362663_5ce292539c.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Anna ran ahead of our group and up the ramp that is just behind this dragon. Will could see her but she was still running off. As soon as she came around the corner she saw this thing and stopped dead in her tracks. She thought it was real for a second and almost had a heart attack. I say it serves her right for running off.</p> <p><a title="Texas Trip" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8872371255/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="Texas Trip" src="http://static.flickr.com/2833/8872371255_3c13395c77.jpg" /></a></p> <p><a title="Texas Trip" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8872971374/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="Texas Trip" src="http://static.flickr.com/2808/8872971374_a329310ca1.jpg" /></a></p> <p>This fish they were pointing at was the funkiest looking thing. </p> <p><a title="IMG_5146" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8972073744/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_5146" src="http://static.flickr.com/3794/8972073744_23073ed223.jpg" /></a></p> <p>You can see the fish in the upper right corner of this picture.  It would open its mouth and you could see all the way through. I still don’t understand how the food stays in. It was very odd!</p> <p><a title="IMG_5145" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8971105009/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_5145" src="http://static.flickr.com/2806/8971105009_837fe27b9a.jpg" /></a></p> <p><a title="Texas Trip" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8872353967/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="Texas Trip" src="http://static.flickr.com/3715/8872353967_3a038f57e0.jpg" /></a></p> <p>I think this big guy was thinking about how yummy those kids looked. He just paced back and forth over and over again.</p> <p><a title="Texas Trip" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8872964006/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="Texas Trip" src="http://static.flickr.com/8400/8872964006_5e99038e5d.jpg" /></a></p> <p>This picture, even though it isn’t the clearest, is hilarious. Anna was sliding down the tube when an otter came swimming by; you can see him just under her feet. In mid-slide, she saw that otter and tried to stop herself. The panic on her face isn’t visible in the photo but we laughed so hard. I don’t know what she thought was going to happen.</p> <p><a title="Texas Trip" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8872346833/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="Texas Trip" src="http://static.flickr.com/7302/8872346833_9d1c770f22.jpg" /></a></p> <p>The same day we went to the zoo, we went to see the Baylor bears. The kids have talked about them and begged to see them for years.  Here they are with their daddy watching the bears sleep.</p> <p><a title="Texas Trip" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8872991932/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="Texas Trip" src="http://static.flickr.com/3772/8872991932_01c63a9ac5.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Just behind the bear facilities is a drainage ditch. We were all so amazed at what the drainage ditch looked like that we just had to take some pictures of it as well.</p> <p><a title="IMG_5376" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8972078354/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_5376" src="http://static.flickr.com/7417/8972078354_6306323f7b.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Finally the reason for the trip, Will’s graduation day. Between practice/lunch and graduation time, we made Will traipse all around the Baylor campus taking his robe on and off in the blazing Texas sun for pictures. Here are a few of the ones that were not already on Facebook.</p> <p> </p> <p>Here we are trying to take a family photo. This is one of the best ones from the MANY photos that my mom and his mom took.  Next time, we are just going to have to take a tripod everywhere we go.  Please note that any time you have seen a family picture in this post, it was a great effort to get one centered with everyone looking.</p> <p><a title="IMG_5516" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8970895165/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_5516" src="http://static.flickr.com/8114/8970895165_8a8c7df61f.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Isabelle swears that she is going to attend Baylor University and become a scientist.  So, just in case she actually does it, we took a picture of her in front of the science building while we were out there.</p> <p><a title="IMG_5475" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8970891555/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_5475" src="http://static.flickr.com/5464/8970891555_df50af0155.jpg" /></a></p> <p>This is Will in front of the Truett Seminary building. </p> <p><a title="IMG_5422" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8972081518/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_5422" src="http://static.flickr.com/8417/8972081518_5d263b21af.jpg" /></a></p> <p>And here he is receiving his diploma from Baylor’s President, Ken Starr. </p> <p><a title="IMG_5562" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8970898891/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_5562" src="http://static.flickr.com/8407/8970898891_e7f8eb8f3c.jpg" /></a></p> <p>We are all very proud of him!</p> <p> </p> <p>On our way from Waco to San Antonio, we met with the Kendall family for breakfast. Scott is the one who married Will and I and he was the youth pastor at Will’s church when he was a teenager. We haven’t seen them in years and it was so nice catching up with them. They wore their Baylor shirts in honor of Will.</p> <p><a title="Texas Trip" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8872382955/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="Texas Trip" src="http://static.flickr.com/5350/8872382955_cfa40512e7.jpg" /></a></p> <p>What would we have done on this road trip without electronics. I probably would have been a basket case.</p> <p><a title="Texas Trip" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8872994842/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="Texas Trip" src="http://static.flickr.com/3752/8872994842_bbc70e6ea1.jpg" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p>Years ago when Will first started his D.Min. program, we promised the girls that when their daddy graduated we would take them to SeaWorld since we never go to the one in Orlando, Florida. They didn’t forget and they let Luke in on the secret. There was no way of getting out of it.</p> <p> </p> <p><a title="Sea World San Antonio" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8872404835/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="Sea World San Antonio" src="http://static.flickr.com/2893/8872404835_e6a74b92d9.jpg" /></a></p> <p>It still amazes me at how those big ole things can get their giant selves up and out of the water. It is beautiful!</p> <p><a title="IMG_5676" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8970914063/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_5676" src="http://static.flickr.com/3702/8970914063_79d3f40743.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Apparently, now that the trainers aren’t allowed in the water with the animals, the entire show is about getting people wet. Even when the whales aren’t responsible for it, the trainers are getting everyone wet. In the next picture, you can see Will and the kids right next to the guy standing guard at the gate in the middle of the picture. At the other end of Will’s row, is a Trainer dumping a bucket of water on some poor people’s head. I would have been so ticked!</p> <p><a title="IMG_5667" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8970909509/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_5667" src="http://static.flickr.com/8134/8970909509_69e10cd63d.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Here is the picture that Will took when the whales posed right in front of him.</p> <p><a title="2013-05-18 14.39.43" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8972098690/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="2013-05-18 14.39.43" src="http://static.flickr.com/3776/8972098690_7831336490.jpg" /></a></p> <p>The SeaWorld in San Antonio has a big Sesame Street area for the kids. We didn’t spend near enough time there, but we got to do most of the rides.</p> <p> </p> <p>Here is Anna and Zoey (I think)!</p> <p><a title="IMG_5803" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8970928565/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_5803" src="http://static.flickr.com/5324/8970928565_41eca472a0.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Once again, Grandma is on a carousel. Seems like every time we go to a theme park she ends up on a carousel.</p> <p><a title="IMG_5745" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8970921157/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="IMG_5745" src="http://static.flickr.com/8555/8970921157_6746623aca.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Isabelle is my big chicken. She finally put her hands up towards the end of this ride.</p> <p><a title="Sea World San Antonio" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8873014578/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="Sea World San Antonio" src="http://static.flickr.com/7393/8873014578_41ce648e44.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Luke and Rosita!</p> <p><a title="Sea World San Antonio" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8872398437/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="Sea World San Antonio" src="http://static.flickr.com/3771/8872398437_94ca20e56c.jpg" /></a></p> <p>I think we may have pushed our luck with Anna and roller coasters on this trip.  While Disney has some very good themed roller coasters and a couple with some hills and turns in them, they don’t have anything like the big thrill rides (that are my favorites) at the other parks. The Steel Eel didn’t have any loops or sharp turns, just some EXTREMELY big drops (and LOTS of them).  Anna got on this ride with her daddy and was horrified. He said he’s never heard her scream with fear and panic like he did that day. I don’t think she’ll be trying anything outside of Disney for a LONG time to come. She didn’t even want to get near the sign to pose for a picture with her daddy.</p> <p><a title="Sea World San Antonio" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8873007230/"><img border="0" alt="Sea World San Antonio" src="http://static.flickr.com/7283/8873007230_49508d1271.jpg" /></a></p> <p>I think this one may be more their style. Grandma and Luke even have their hands up!</p> <p><a title="IMG_5765" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8972118878/"><img style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_5765" src="http://static.flickr.com/5322/8972118878_0908473873.jpg" /></a></p> <p><a title="Sea World San Antonio" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8873002258/"><img border="0" alt="Sea World San Antonio" src="http://static.flickr.com/8260/8873002258_972c8504e6.jpg" /></a></p> <p>This was how Anna and Luke sat for the Dolphin show…jaws dropped and amazed.</p> <p><a title="Sea World San Antonio" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8872385627/"><img border="0" alt="Sea World San Antonio" src="http://static.flickr.com/5448/8872385627_dda09d82d8.jpg" /></a></p> <p><a title="IMG_5649" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8970903457/"><img border="0" alt="IMG_5649" src="http://static.flickr.com/5446/8970903457_7c255a7f8e.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Luke loved the shark tanks. Here he is talking to the guy about the sharks. I can’t remember his question, but this guy just talked to him like he was somebody important.</p> <p><a title="Sea World San Antonio" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8873020152/"><img style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px" border="0" alt="Sea World San Antonio" src="http://static.flickr.com/7327/8873020152_d380796aa6.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Somehow, I got talked into riding a water ride. This time, even though I wasn’t anywhere near Isabelle, I was the one that got soaked!</p> <p><a title="IMG_5689" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8972111748/"><img border="0" alt="IMG_5689" src="http://static.flickr.com/8555/8972111748_4f03a30816.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Grandma and Nana were such troopers during this trip. They wrangled kids, took potty breaks, and dealt with  me and Will when we were grouchy. We were very glad that they got to go. </p> <p><a title="IMG_5872" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8970932505/"><img border="0" alt="IMG_5872" src="http://static.flickr.com/2891/8970932505_69c20d49e4.jpg" /></a></p> <p><a title="Sea World San Antonio" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8872409941/"><img style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px" border="0" alt="Sea World San Antonio" src="http://static.flickr.com/5330/8872409941_3544e30545.jpg" /></a></p> <p><a title="IMG_5988" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8872416811/"><img style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_5988" src="http://static.flickr.com/7296/8872416811_3d233ab9ba.jpg" /></a></p> <p>On our way home, we took the kids to see the Alamo, the Tower of the Americas, and the River Walk Mall. </p> <p><a title="IMG_6006" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8872423525/"><img border="0" alt="IMG_6006" src="http://static.flickr.com/2831/8872423525_4b3073d0c2.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Here we are at the top of the Tower of the Americas.</p> <p><a title="IMG_6140" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8970942867/"><img border="0" alt="IMG_6140" src="http://static.flickr.com/8414/8970942867_f2d12172d0.jpg" /></a></p> <p>They had a beautiful fountain area at the base of the tower. I could have sat there all day!</p> <p><a title="IMG_6087" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8972133326/"><img style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_6087" src="http://static.flickr.com/3795/8972133326_984875ce44.jpg" /></a></p> <p>The girls were really glad that the tall building wasn’t a ride. Just an elevator.</p> <p><a title="IMG_6064" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8972129498/"><img border="0" alt="IMG_6064" src="http://static.flickr.com/7344/8972129498_a512622830.jpg" /></a></p> <p>There was a 4D movie that had one part where the rattlesnake whips out from under the seat. Luke STILL talks about how that snake got him in Texas.</p> <p> </p> <p>We had a blast! Thanks again Grandma and Nana for going with us and ALL of the help that y’all provided!</p> Kate Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11220000354714739004noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3002895627573558321.post-67292271174099874672013-05-26T16:45:00.001-05:002013-05-26T16:45:42.714-05:00Anna’s Eighth Birthday!<p>This year Anna wanted an Artist Party. She has wanted one a few other times but I didn’t think I wanted a painting party with a bunch of five, six, and seven year olds.  This year, though, I thought we might could handle it.</p> <p> </p> <p>Here is Anna with her paint splatter cake. She wanted me to just throw icing on the cake to make it look authentic. </p> <p><a title="IMG_6204" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8841042015/"><img border="0" alt="IMG_6204" src="http://static.flickr.com/8263/8841042015_daef972a22.jpg" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p>She is growing up. When we moved here, she had just turned one. I can’t believe how time has flown.</p> <p><a title="IMG_6201" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8841033485/"><img border="0" alt="IMG_6201" src="http://static.flickr.com/5341/8841033485_aa195ecb99.jpg" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p>Anna working on her painting.</p> <p><a title="IMG_6225" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8841077923/"><img border="0" alt="IMG_6225" src="http://static.flickr.com/5338/8841077923_7d2594998c.jpg" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p>Me helping Anna draw circles to paint.</p> <p><a title="IMG_6224" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8841697778/"><img border="0" alt="IMG_6224" src="http://static.flickr.com/3710/8841697778_4f0dc8de50.jpg" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p>Isabelle and Jada painting away.</p> <p><a title="IMG_6223" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8841693258/"><img border="0" alt="IMG_6223" src="http://static.flickr.com/3800/8841693258_9f323ac80a.jpg" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p>Of course when you have a tedious time consuming project the kids get restless and the moms have to step in to help finish it up and do the touch-ups.</p> <p><a title="IMG_6221" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8841064593/"><img border="0" alt="IMG_6221" src="http://static.flickr.com/7398/8841064593_42d52c3a19.jpg" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p><a title="IMG_6216" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8841680164/"><img style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_6216" src="http://static.flickr.com/7375/8841680164_4f295a4e23.jpg" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p><a title="IMG_6251" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8841086803/"><img style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_6251" src="http://static.flickr.com/8394/8841086803_42c57a181b.jpg" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p>Hope and Bailey were doing a great job!</p> <p><a title="IMG_6217" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8841684158/"><img border="0" alt="IMG_6217" src="http://static.flickr.com/7362/8841684158_b6d0070f01.jpg" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p>Luke just wanted to make a mess.  I had to help him with his painting. This was just him going to town with a piece of paper and the paint.</p> <p><a title="IMG_6261" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8841724778/"><img style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_6261" src="http://static.flickr.com/3813/8841724778_d13d04977c.jpg" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p>The next pictures are everyone with their paintings. I couldn’t get a group shot because some left before the other paintings were finished.</p> <p><a title="IMG_6290" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8841739594/"><img border="0" alt="IMG_6290" src="http://static.flickr.com/5450/8841739594_a598195a44.jpg" /></a><a title="IMG_6279" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8841110349/"><img border="0" alt="IMG_6279" src="http://static.flickr.com/5460/8841110349_8811d8a6de.jpg" /></a><a title="IMG_6266" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8841105463/"><img border="0" alt="IMG_6266" src="http://static.flickr.com/3669/8841105463_45f6b6c216.jpg" /></a><a title="IMG_6258" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8841096117/"><img border="0" alt="IMG_6258" src="http://static.flickr.com/7394/8841096117_e0a811bc0f.jpg" /></a><a title="IMG_6257" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8841091641/"><img border="0" alt="IMG_6257" src="http://static.flickr.com/7418/8841091641_c739bba109.jpg" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p>Here is everyone singing to Anna. She is the center of attention and is not even hiding under the table! I am so proud of her. She is slowly overcoming her shyness.</p> <p><a title="IMG_6236" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8841706228/"><img border="0" alt="IMG_6236" src="http://static.flickr.com/2864/8841706228_74d90724fb.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Thank you to everyone who came to Anna’s party and made her day special!</p> Kate Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11220000354714739004noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3002895627573558321.post-39769476686216194822013-05-24T10:06:00.000-05:002013-05-25T08:06:24.291-05:00Truett Seminary @ Baylor University Commencement<br />
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Last week on the sixth anniversary of my Dad’s death, I walked across the stage at <a href="http://www.fbcwaco.org/">First Baptist Church Waco</a> to receive my Doctor of Ministry degree. I began this endeavor just a few months after my Dad’s passing and can’t help but think about how proud he would have been to see me hooded last week. The education I received at <a href="http://www.baylor.edu/truett/">Truett</a> has already been beneficial to my ministry in Jay. I am thankful for those who helped me navigate through this process even when the easy thing to do would have been to quit. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8802463581/" title="Truett Seminary Graduation Ceremony (May 2013)"><img alt="Truett Seminary Graduation Ceremony (May 2013)" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/7442/8802463581_5206e21c28.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><br />
I am grateful to my family for all they have done to see this day come. Kate encouraged me the entire time, even when I was ready to give up. It was not the workload of the of the degree that was overwhelming, it was balancing that workload while striving to still be a Husband, Dad, & Pastor. Kate helped me to keep all things in balance.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8802427383/" title="Truett Seminary Graduation Ceremony (May 2013)"><img alt="Truett Seminary Graduation Ceremony (May 2013)" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/5335/8802427383_3b5a28a611.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><br />
The kids often had to sacrifice time with their dad while I was away for class, often two weeks at a time. They allowed me to get away for a few days while I was working on my project and they gave up many evenings while I locked myself in the camper to complete class assignments.<br />
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<img alt="Truett Seminary Graduation Ceremony (May 2013)" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/8254/8802439399_3d5b3337b9.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /><br />
I am thankful for loving and supporting parents. This is now the third time my mom has seen me walk across the commencement stage of an academic institution. Her continued support has been an encouragement to me.<br />
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<img alt="Truett Seminary Graduation Ceremony (May 2013)" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/3802/8813017112_c305cedd56.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /><br />
I am also thankful for the support of Kate’s family. They do not treat me as an in-law, but as one of their own. Many times they were willing to help Kate with the kids while I was away for school. I am glad Mrs. Lori was able to be there for the commencement ceremony.<br />
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<img alt="Truett Seminary Graduation Ceremony (May 2013)" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/5458/8802444273_7d5c41eaca.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8813044110/" title="Truett Seminary Graduation Ceremony (May 2013)"><img alt="Truett Seminary Graduation Ceremony (May 2013)" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/3756/8813044110_7baa22b861.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><br />
It was a unique privilege to have <a href="http://www.brokensteeple.com/">Matt Snowden</a>, my first college roommate, deliver the commencement address. Matt and I were thrown together by <a href="http://www.wmcarey.edu/">William Carey College</a> in the Fall of 1997. We had organizational and theological differences, but throughout the years our friendship has endured. I proud to call the Snowden family my friends.<br />
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I am also thankful to the many professors at Truett who took the time to invest in my life. <a href="http://www.baylor.edu/truett/index.php?id=83404" target="_blank">Ron Cook</a>, the director of the Doctor of Ministry program at Truett, has been a constant source of encouragement. He has a pastor’s heart with an academic mind. My faculty supervisor, Dr. Levi Price, provided insight and support throughout the process as well. His guidance helped me to formulate the process that would become my doctoral project. My pastor, friend, and field supervisor, <a href="http://www.fbcfwb.org/about-us/meet-the-pastor/" target="_blank">Dr. Howard Gates</a>, has helped me to become the minister I am today. He has helped me to understand both the hardships and the blessings of serving a church. <br />
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There are so many others who have helped me throughout this process. I am grateful for all the prayers and support. Below are a few picture from the day. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8813033964/" title="Truett Seminary Graduation Ceremony (May 2013)"><img alt="Truett Seminary Graduation Ceremony (May 2013)" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/8420/8813033964_186a930dbb.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><br />
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Receiving my degree from Baylor’s President, <a href="http://www.baylor.edu/president/index.php?id=73711" target="_blank">Ken Starr</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8802452729/" title="Truett Seminary Graduation Ceremony (May 2013)"><img alt="Truett Seminary Graduation Ceremony (May 2013)" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/8413/8802452729_4b88e4a98e.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><br />
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Receiving my doctoral hood. <br />
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<img alt="Truett Seminary Graduation Ceremony (May 2013)" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/8257/8813021038_0348a5c697.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /><br />
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Standing in front of Truett Seminary on Baylor University’s campus.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8802422287/" title="Truett Seminary Graduation Ceremony (May 2013)"><img alt="Truett Seminary Graduation Ceremony (May 2013)" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/5442/8802422287_7b25044bb3.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><br />
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Inside the chapel at Truett Seminary.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8813003830/" title="Truett Seminary Graduation Ceremony (May 2013)"><img alt="Truett Seminary Graduation Ceremony (May 2013)" border="0" src="http://static.flickr.com/8542/8813003830_fa258d2820.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px;" /></a><br />
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Truett Seminary’s May 2013 graduating class.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14692175604434395709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3002895627573558321.post-887325441685661192013-05-09T12:13:00.001-05:002013-05-09T12:13:12.005-05:00Easter 2013<p>Again this year after Easter Sunday services we piled into the car and headed to Mobile to eat lunch and have an Easter egg hunt with the cousins.</p> <p> </p> <p>Just as in years past, we hurried to take our family photos in our color coordinated outfits. Other than beach pictures it is the only time of the year that we match outfits. The azaleas were the perfect backdrop this year!</p> <p> </p> <p>Isabelle…</p> <p><a title="IMG_4463" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8721973878/"><img border="0" alt="IMG_4463" src="http://static.flickr.com/7300/8721973878_807a256057.jpg" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p>Anna…</p> <p><a title="IMG_4449" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8721972732/"><img border="0" alt="IMG_4449" src="http://static.flickr.com/7321/8721972732_c2e1543489.jpg" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p>Luke…</p> <p><a title="IMG_4477" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8721975176/"><img border="0" alt="IMG_4477" src="http://static.flickr.com/7448/8721975176_6ab1c7d52a.jpg" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p>Nacky with the Isabelle, Anna, Luke, and Riley…</p> <p><a title="IMG_4444" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8721971668/"><img border="0" alt="IMG_4444" src="http://static.flickr.com/7412/8721971668_e4353d9592.jpg" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p>The Reynolds family two days before Jackson was born…</p> <p><a title="IMG_4400" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8721970400/"><img border="0" alt="IMG_4400" src="http://static.flickr.com/7370/8721970400_e349768536.jpg" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p>Our family…</p> <p><a title="IMG_4358" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8721968202/"><img border="0" alt="IMG_4358" src="http://static.flickr.com/7306/8721968202_ed4aabd271.jpg" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p>I love this picture of Will.</p> <p><a title="IMG_4356" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8721967282/"><img border="0" alt="IMG_4356" src="http://static.flickr.com/7409/8721967282_facf0f68da.jpg" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p>Just the two of us…</p> <p><a title="IMG_4501" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8720856751/"><img border="0" alt="IMG_4501" src="http://static.flickr.com/7299/8720856751_7a8c330e22.jpg" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p>My three. We have several pictures of the girls kissing his cheeks. He doesn’t enjoy taking these type of photos, but he is going to have to deal with it. This is our thing now.</p> <p><a title="IMG_4494" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8721976464/"><img border="0" alt="IMG_4494" src="http://static.flickr.com/7371/8721976464_61d8221211.jpg" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p>The Easter Egg hunt was after lunch. When they finally got the big kids up from the table to hide the eggs.  Isabelle is getting so tall.</p> <p><a title="P1040650" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8720858321/"><img border="0" alt="P1040650" src="http://static.flickr.com/7444/8720858321_f8a873946b.jpg" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p>Luke was in a hurry…</p> <p><a title="P1040659" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8720861327/"><img style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px" border="0" alt="P1040659" src="http://static.flickr.com/7390/8720861327_44f4e79822.jpg" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p>Until he found this egg.  Now he is thinking,  “How am I supposed to get that one?”</p> <p><a title="P1040655" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8721980420/"><img style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px" border="0" alt="P1040655" src="http://static.flickr.com/7386/8721980420_4c3ca79ecb.jpg" /></a></p> <p>Anna didn’t find these eggs very challenging at all.</p> <p><a title="P1040649" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8720857599/"><img border="0" alt="P1040649" src="http://static.flickr.com/7381/8720857599_a0867743c3.jpg" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p>Until she got to the ones that were up pretty high… She had to work for this one.</p> <p><a title="2013-03-31 16.07.11-5" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8721981076/"><img style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px" border="0" alt="2013-03-31 16.07.11-5" src="http://static.flickr.com/7306/8721981076_a1daf1c2d9.jpg" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p>And of course, as is the case with everything that goes on around this house, the big boys had to take it too far.  They hid eggs on the roof.  Instead of letting the little kids get them, I made the boys stay up there until the little ones pointed them out.</p> <p><a title="P1040680" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8721983034/"><img style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px" border="0" alt="P1040680" src="http://static.flickr.com/7410/8721983034_d42a772870.jpg" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p>Here are my two brothers. Look at all that grey hair on Will Reynolds’ head! Wow!</p> <p><a title="P1040692" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8720865155/"><img border="0" alt="P1040692" src="http://static.flickr.com/7346/8720865155_6a90e747d4.jpg" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p>When it was all said and done, they had baskets full of things. No candy this year since Luke is a diabetic, but lots of little junky treasures and coins for the piggy banks. </p> <p><a title="P1040684" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8720864483/"><img border="0" alt="P1040684" src="http://static.flickr.com/7442/8720864483_afc1ef81fa.jpg" /></a><a title="P1040683" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8720863895/"><img border="0" alt="P1040683" src="http://static.flickr.com/7385/8720863895_d82426f4e4.jpg" /></a><a title="P1040682" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8721984318/"><img border="0" alt="P1040682" src="http://static.flickr.com/7317/8721984318_4999f9d280.jpg" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p>Riley didn’t care too much about the eggs, she wanted to pick all of Nana’s flowers.</p> <p><a title="P1040681" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8720862675/"><img border="0" alt="P1040681" src="http://static.flickr.com/7308/8720862675_52d3ae4334.jpg" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p>Another beautiful Easter Sunday celebrating Jesus’ resurrection and our freedom from sin as a result of it!</p> Kate Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11220000354714739004noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3002895627573558321.post-28761029808037310402013-05-08T17:15:00.001-05:002013-05-08T17:15:14.569-05:00Isabelle’s Speech<p>A few weeks ago, I had decided that I was tired of all of the busy work that the teachers and school send home with the kids  that end up causing more work for the parents (I am very busy these days and didn’t need the extra work). You know…like decorate this poster kid to look just like you (cutting yarn hair, digging out craft supplies, finding an old shirt to cut up and decorate with), send out this Flat Stanley (decorating the  paper doll and begging a family member to do something cool with it and send it back for the class to look at), etc.   The very next day after my complaining about this, Isabelle comes home with a paper about the Florida Tropicana Speech Contest that is NOT optional. My fourth grader had to write and give a speech! Ridiculous!  Needless to say, I was not a happy camper. </p> <p> </p> <p>The good news for me was that Isabelle came home all pumped that her daddy does speeches every week so he was going to be good at helping her. And like a good daddy he did just that. </p> <p> </p> <p>Isabelle picked the topic of love.  Will had recently preached a series of sermons on Love and Isabelle has been dealing a lot lately with kids picking on and being mean to each other at school. So this subject is near and dear to her this year. </p> <p> </p> <p>Will helped Isabelle to get an outline together and come up with an organized introduction paragraph. She researched by looking up definitions, listening to Will’s sermons online again, and looking up verses in the Bible that she wanted to use. She filled in the information and wrote the rest of the speech all by herself. Her daddy helped her read over it and make sense out of the few spots that didn’t sound right. </p> <p> </p> <p>She worked very hard and after giving the speech she won third place in her class.  The top three from each of the fourth, fifth, and sixth grade classes then had to give their speeches in the auditorium for judges, those grade level students and teachers, and the parents of all of the speakers.</p> <p> </p> <p>Isabelle did very well. She was nervous and very quiet, but she tried her best. Even though she didn’t place in this part of the competition, I am very proud of her! I probably would have cried every night and begged my mom not to make me do it.</p> <p> </p> <p>Here is the video of her giving her speech this morning. It is very quiet and you will have to turn your sound up all the way and make sure there is no noise in the room to be able to hear her.  Also, Luke is whispering the whole time and making noises, so you will hear that during the video as well.</p> <p> </p> <center><iframe height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/P-yHmsE5xyM?rel=0" frameborder="0" width="560" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></center> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>For those of you that don’t want to listen to the video, here is photo of Isabelle during the speech. </p> <p> </p> <p><a title="P1040702" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51791370@N03/8720810983/"><img style="float: none; margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block" border="0" alt="P1040702" src="http://static.flickr.com/7428/8720810983_c846d4091a.jpg" /></a></p> Kate Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11220000354714739004noreply@blogger.com0