Mike and Miriam Adams

What we've been up to lately...

2011-11-09T23:20:00.007-05:00

Building bonfires on a cool night with friends...

Attempting to take Christmas card photos...

Picking apples with friends...

Eating at Hard Times on a day of hard times...

Enjoying some snuggle time with Blue...

Waiting for the Metro to take us into the City...

Stopping at Chinatown for the afternoon...

Visiting the National Museum of Crime and Punishment with discounted tickets we scored from Living Social...

And, of course, hitting up a yogurt shop for an afternoon snack...

one of our favorite flavors, Pomegranate, with fresh blueberries...

Blue's first day at camp

2011-10-18T16:51:00.003-04:00

I have been looking into some other options for the dogs when we travel, mainly for Blue. He is the one who handles changes a little better and loves to run and play...Polly, not so much! It is probably better for her to stay with familiar friends and family so she has a more enjoyable time.

One of those options that I found is a day camp/overnight camp in town. They require an interview day where the dog can try out the camp and they can see if it would be a good fit. So, today was Blue's interview. I dropped him off around 9:30 and picked him up around 3:30.

When I picked him up, I was given a certificate that he passed the interview process and is welcome anytime...whew! :)

And, he had a report card that told me how he did today and what all he did. Funny that one thing they said was that he was a little shy around the other dogs at first and enjoyed watching all of the activity going on. Of course, they agreed that he was super sweet.

We got home and Polly gave him the smell-down. I'm pretty sure her sniffer was in OVER-load! They both quickly settled down and as you can see, they missed each other a lot!

6 years ago today...

2011-10-16T06:00:00.000-04:00

Mike and I came home from church and received some of the hardest news a family will ever hear...Mark, Mike's brother, had been killed in Iraq the day before. We were torn, devastated, and saddened! But the family was determined that his death would not be in vain. His memory would live on...he would have a legacy!

Today, that legacy continues through wrestling clinics and camps and Peru missions made possible through the Sgt. Mark P. Adams Foundation. I'm so thankful that he isn't just a number...but that his life counted! I am also thankful that he had a personal relationship with Jesus and that he is in Heaven now.

If today was YOUR last day, what kind of legacy would YOU leave?
And, do YOU know where YOU would spend eternity?

Just call us Goldi locks...

2011-10-03T17:55:00.004-04:00

So, we had a little visitor at the cabin...

These are the claw marks from when the Mama Bear climbed UP our porch to get our trash can.

COMING UP OUR PORCH TO THE DOOR... uh...

New Adventure...

2011-09-28T13:45:00.002-04:00

I admit I have NEVER been a runner...never enjoyed it...hated each minute I was doing it...you get the picture. The thing is that I really would like to be one of those people who can actually do a 5k and feel like I wasn't dying through the whole thing. I've been hearing about this plan called Couch to 5k and I wondered if it was for me. It is a 9 week plan and even has podcasts that you download for each week that tell you when to run, walk, etc. with music in the background. You run for 3 days with rest days in between each week.

So, friends, I am finished with week 1 and I have to report that it wasn't too bad. Even though they are a little cheesy, I definitely like the podcasts because it keeps my mind off the watch. Before I knew it, between the podcasts and the nice scenery outside at the park I am going to, the 30 minutes had gone by.

So, we'll see how it goes. I'm hoping that by Thanksgiving I can successfully run a 5k and hopefully shed some weight too! Anyone else up for it? Leave a comment to let me know you're doing it too.

Happy Birthday Bec!

2011-09-16T11:42:00.003-04:00

Today is the birthday of one of the funniest people I know. I always know that when I see her number pop up on my phone, I will end up laughing a lot of the conversation!

Happy Birthday to my favorite middle sister!

And, this is what I'm talking about...we usually end up like this when we're together! Some say "trouble", I say "FUN!"

Love ya, Bec!

Photo Challenge

2011-09-13T09:16:00.000-04:00

Well, I got pretty close to the 30 day photo challenge. I made it with only 4 left. If I find something in the next few days or weeks that is worth posting for these 4, I'll do it...otherwise, they'll just remain photo-less for the blog.

3. Clouds - kept wanting to post really cool clouds and never got a photo
16. Something that makes you laugh - really hard to narrow down
18. Lunch - always forgot to take the picture until after lunch was over...
22. Handwriting - thought this would be cooler than it actually was.

Hope you enjoyed! Any ideas for future posts??

Photo Challenge

2011-09-12T08:49:00.000-04:00

2. What you wore today...or, yesterday...

This weekend, all of the kids got together at Mom and Dad's for Dad's birthday. I don't remember the last time we had a Mom and Dad and kid picture! So, here's the most recent of all 6 of us as of Sunday.

Photo Challenge

2011-09-11T05:36:00.000-04:00

12. Something Red

My Dad's birthday gift! Today is Dad's birthday and I am so glad that I have been able to be with him all week to celebrate. It sure takes a lot of love to purchase a GA shirt and wrap it in Red and Black when you are wearing an Auburn tee-shirt!

Love you Dad! HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Photo Challenge

2011-09-10T08:33:00.000-04:00

17. Cup I drank (or will be drinking) from today

WAR EAGLE!!

Photo Challenge

2011-09-09T08:10:00.001-04:00

27. Picture of you when you were little

While at Mom and Dad's this week, I came across some pictures of us when we were little...this was one of the least incriminating pictures that I felt like I could post. WOW! The 80s and early 90s were NOT friendly to me! And boy, am I glad that my parents paid for braces for all those years!

Photo Challenge

2011-09-08T10:55:00.000-04:00

13. Close up

Polly sleeping

Photo Challenge

2011-09-07T10:52:00.000-04:00

4. Something Green

Lemon Crush - my favorite drink to get in Guatemala!

Photo Challenge

2011-09-06T10:25:00.000-04:00

29. Childhood memory

We may not have had a lot when we were growing up but I ALWAYS remember my dad asking if we wanted to stop for ice cream when we were on trips. This always meant McDonald's ice cream cones...no Dairy Queen, or some other fancy-schmancy ice cream shop! With 4 kids, Micky D's was the only thing allowed, but I wasn't complaining! It was either that or nothing.

Photo Challenge

2011-09-05T10:18:00.000-04:00

11. Shoes

Keen sandals - These are my new favorite "outdoor" shoes.

Photo Challenge

2011-09-04T10:03:00.000-04:00

19. Something from your bathroom

My go-to face wash, for sure! Love the scrubbing action. Definitely makes me feel clean and leaves no oily residue behind.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAVID!

2011-09-04T07:06:00.001-04:00

Happy Birthday to the best 30 year old brother-in-law! So glad you are part of the fam...and you put up with my sister at least most of the time! :)

Photo Challenge

2011-09-03T09:57:00.000-04:00

21. Souvenir from vacation

That, my friends, is volcanic rock stuck in my hand. While we were in Guatemala in December, we climbed Volcano Pacaya. While on that climb, I slipped on the rocks and ended up jamming some of the lovely stuff (yeah, not so much!) into my hand. I can't say this was my favorite part of the trip but it definitely made for an interesting story.

**Sidenote: Dad and Mike performed minor surgery that night and all is well now.

Photo Challenge

2011-09-02T09:56:00.000-04:00

23. Something in your frig - my FAVORITE "coke"...CHERRY COKE!

Photo Challenge

2011-09-01T09:28:00.000-04:00

15. Something you collect - ornaments

Yes, quite the selection of Auburn ornaments:

Many from places all over the world - this one from the Christmas Market in Vienna, Austria on a trip where we visited friends

And we pick at least one up each year, some that represent places we go on vacation and some just fun ones.

Photo Challenge

2011-08-31T10:57:00.000-04:00

10. Sunset

At Lake Atitlan, Guatemala

Photo Challenge

2011-08-30T10:54:00.000-04:00

5. High Angle

Photo Challenge

2011-08-29T10:49:00.000-04:00

30. Picture of your family

Photo Challenge

2011-08-28T10:47:00.000-04:00

6. Low Angle

One of the coolest places - Lake Atitlan, Guatemala. It is said that the bottom of the lake is a crater of a volcano. There are volcanoes and little villages surrounding the lake. I love that we have been able to visit here a number of times.

Photo Challenge

2011-08-27T10:45:00.000-04:00

28. Somewhere you would love to travel - Italy and the Greek Isles

Photo Challenge

2011-08-26T10:44:00.000-04:00

7. Fruit

Photo Challenge

2011-08-25T10:42:00.000-04:00

20. Picture that makes you smile

I love that my dad will do still fun and adventurous things like climbing volcanoes and go zip lining with us.

Photo Challenge

2011-08-24T10:39:00.000-04:00

26. Something you could never imagine life without

The Bible has made such a great impact on my life and I know that I would be nothing, literally, without God.

Earthquake here...really?

2011-08-23T14:53:00.003-04:00

This afternoon just before 2pm, I noticed that Polly was really following me around for a little while and kept wanting to go outside, but that just seemed to be like her. Finally, after I finished up what I was doing, I let the dogs outside. As soon as I was outside, I noticed that the back door (which was not closed, just cracked) and windows were shaking. I thought it was kind of weird, maybe a gust of wind (it was a little windy at that time) or maybe just pressure had built up from me having the door open. It went on for a little while but not too much to cause me to think much about it since it had stopped.

I came back inside after a little while and checked facebook and saw reports of earthquake...what?? Turned on the TV and saw the CBS news report of a 6.0 earthquake in Mineral, VA which is near Richmond, VA. OH...so THAT'S what the shaking was! Now, hearing reports as far up as Canada and as far south as South Carolina and Georgia.

So, maybe Polly isn't crazy afterall. I have always heard that animals seem to have an instinct on things like that. When the tsunami happened a few years back, there were reports of animials moving inland to escape. It makes me wonder now if Polly was sensing something happening and wanted to get out of the house...

Interesting day to say the least!

Photo Challenge

2011-08-23T10:38:00.000-04:00

8. Someone you love

Photo Challenge

2011-08-22T10:36:00.000-04:00

9. Something blue

This is our dog, Blue. And, in this picture, he looks a little blue too because we were leaving a fun weekend with family...

Photo Challenge

2011-08-21T10:22:00.003-04:00

14. Black & White

This picture is of my grandparents before they were married. Fun story about them...they "met" through letters while my granddad was in WWII through my grandmother's brother who was stationed with and friends with my granddad. They wrote for 3 years and only had a little wallet size photo of each other. One month after he returned, they met face to face and just a 2 short months later, they were married!

I know this is supposed to be one photo a day...but here's the story below. The paper did an article on them on their wedding day. Click on the pictures below to open the articles.

Photo Challenge

2011-08-20T10:55:00.001-04:00

24. Most treasured item

HAPPY BIRTHDAY...

2011-08-20T01:57:00.004-04:00

to the BEST *30 year old* brother in the world!

Photo Challenge

2011-08-19T10:52:00.002-04:00

25. Person you do the silliest things with

I pretty much have a crazy family who likes to have fun and do silly things. On our trip to Guatemala last year to visit Mom and Dad, we endured the bucket together.

Photo Challenge

2011-08-18T11:22:00.006-04:00

Ok, my sister kind of talked me into doing something with my blog that was fun...apparently I am not fun enough with this blog. And, since I don't have a lot of craziness going on anymore, I thought the 30 day photo challenge would be a start.

On the side is a list of the photo challenges. I can't promise that I will go in order but that makes it more fun, right? You never know what picture will come up today.

Welp, here we go...

1) Book you've been reading - The Help

I just finished up this book last night and can't wait for the movie! It was a great and easy read. It made me wonder what I would have been like if I lived 50 years ago in Mississippi. I always enjoy books that take you there...

Celebrating our 8th

2011-07-31T18:44:00.004-04:00

Last night we were finally able to celebrate our anniversary by going out to dinner. We got dressed and headed out to use our Outback gift card from my parents. On our way, we ran into a pretty good storm with lots of rain and lightning. Once we finally got there, we had a GREAT dinner and enjoyed spending time together. It has been a crazy year with Mike starting his new job to me ending mine on Friday...but so exciting for what is to come!

Last Day

2011-07-29T10:00:00.000-04:00

Today is my last day of work. 8 years of my life has been poured into presentations, proposals, and client reviews. I have suffered through countless meetings, trainings, conference calls, and demos. I had dealt with people who are like me and some who are not so much like me. I have lived in a cube, only to have constant view of the life outside, forever hearing what was going on and being involved in conversations that I might otherwise would choose not to be a part of...never with the ability to close a door. I have had to work quickly under constant deadlines, juggling many projects at one time, working at home in the evenings and weekends at times...but have also had days that seemed to D.R.A.G on because there wasn't much going on.

BUT, I have made great friends, including my BWF, Best Work Friend, Shelia. I have had COUNTLESS hours of laughter. I have enjoyed numerous lunches out with others instead of eating cold ham sandwiches by myself in the lunchroom, even though we never had an idea of where we were going until we got there. I have made many memories - including going to Durham Bulls baseball games, Chick-fil-A for Valentine's Day together with our spouses (yep!), Christmas dinners, being a part of Daycare Day at Work, Birthday surprises, three 50th birthday parties, 2 retirements, a few changes in personnel, and a Carolina Panthers football game. These things are what got me through! The friendships, the laughter, the caring for others when things were tough (like through family deaths and family issues). And, these things are what will cause me to keep in touch with these crazy people that I have worked with all these years!

Somehow, the good times always outweigh the bad. The fun memories always come to mind many more times than the tough ones. I will be forever grateful that God provided this job for me and allowed me to work with such a great group of friends.

Now, I look forward to this next phase of life that Mike and I are starting. It is fun to hear how he is now working and making these friends and memories that will hopefully last a long time! I pray that he has a great experience and that he too can look back, knowing that God provided this job for him at this particular time and be thankful for the life-long friends he has made.

Family Time

2011-07-28T20:39:00.005-04:00

While we were together this weekend, we took advantage of some girl photo time

All four of us before leaving Ridgecrest.

At lunch, Rebecca and Mom At lunch, Miriam and Deborah

The place that we stopped for lunch had a fun creek behind it so we took a few shots before we headed in opposite directions.

1st Annual Miller Ladies Retreat

2011-07-28T19:45:00.009-04:00

This past weekend we had our 1st Annual Miller Ladies Retreat. (Yes, we hope it to be an annual event and attended by even more next year!) We had 10 lovely Miller ladies join - 2 of my dad's sisters, 1 sister-in-law, 3 cousins, my mom and my 2 sisters and me. We met together at Ridgecrest which is just outside of Asheville.

Friday night was a meet and greet. Nothing much going on but catching up which is always a good time. Saturday morning, we met together for breakfast of homemade cinnamon rolls, homemade bread, breakfast casserole, and fruit. Mom led a devotion about the majesty of God and had pictures of their past 2 years in Guate to go along with it.

After breakfast, we finished "getting ready" and headed into the big city - Asheville. On the way in, we stopped over at the Grove Park Inn to get a look at beautiful hotel and view.

We then went to grab lunch and do a little shopping at the Mast General Store.

Saturday evening was dinner by the David Miller girls (that would be my mom, sisters, and me) - we had Mom's spaghetti pie, salad, bread, and ice cream casserole. After dinner, we brought out the games and prizes! Games included Bingo, Mexican Train (which I think some people are STILL confused about!), and Uno. We all brought prizes to select from and each winner was able to choose their own gift. Some were wrapped, some were not. It was always fun to see what the winner picked as their prize!

On Sunday, we joined again for breakfast and a devotion by Aunt Lynn on leaving a legacy. We also talked about our family's heritage and the example that has been passed along to us. We were able to remember together a lot of great people who have gone before us and laugh through stories.

Sunday lunch was at a local home-cooking and seafood restaurant.

After lunch, we stopped in Black Mountain for a little more walking around and then free time in the afternoon. Sunday evening was a repeat of the night before - games and prizes! I'm not going to give many details but let's just say "It got CRAZY!"

Before we knew it, Monday morning had arrived. We closed the weekend with a devotion from Rhonda which continued the theme of legacy. It was a great ending to a weekend with wonderful women from our family.

Before we left, we each got a gift to remind us of the weekend:

Nail files to remind us that sometimes we have to smooth off the rough edges

Gloves to remind us that sometimes we have to get dirty and pull some weeds

Bath gel to remind us to clean up and have a presentable body inside and out

And, nuts to remind us to keep a sense of humor!

Saying "Good-byes" are never easy but it's nice to know we'll see each other again at some point. I am so blessed to be a part of this family and have ladies like this that I can look up to. It is also a blessing to have a family who not only loves each other, but likes each other too.

Looking forward to the next time we can be together!

Rush Hour

2011-07-14T21:44:00.005-04:00

A few months ago, we found a Groupon deal for Rush Hour Karting. Friends of ours had told us how great it was and that they would love to go too. Finally, after months of wanting to go, we metthis past weekend.

I really didn't know what to expect - all I knew was it was an indoor go cart place with go carts that go up to 35 mph! Sure, why not?

After signing our life away, getting our full helmet, neck brace and getting quick instructions about the course, we were off for our first race. It took a little getting used to as there were sharp turns and we were going pretty fast.

On the 2nd race, I was definitely in my zone and even beat the boys and had one of the fastest times of the day! Sign me up! I'm ready for another race!!

Notice the sign below as Mike is passing by?? Yeah, wishing I had that phone number on Sunday! I definitely hit the wall a couple of times thanks to my great friends. But, after a few days...I am finally not so sore!

Finally, the update from the 2nd weekend visit

2011-07-14T21:17:00.004-04:00

Just getting around to putting up pictures from Mom and Dad's 2nd weekend visit. We didn't take a whole lot of pictures like I was hoping but that is a good sign right? We were just having fun!

Saturday we had lunch at a fun favorite restaurant in Wake Forest then hung out at the house that evening. Sunday, after church, some of Mom and Dad's friends came over for a cookout, full with home-made ice cream. What better end to a hot summer day?

Monday, we went up to Mike's parents lake house. And, then watched a great 4th of July fireworks show.

Another fun weekend that went by way too fast!

8 years...already??

2011-07-12T06:43:00.004-04:00

It is hard to believe that 8 years has past since our wedding day! I don't think that either of us would have predicted our last 8 years and would have never imagined that our lives together have gone the way they have, but we are both so thankful that God knew and had it planned for us! And, that he walked with us each of those days...and will continue to in the days ahead.

I'm so thankful for a husband who has been patient and waits on the Lord for His best! I look forward to the next 8 and beyond!

First Stop

2011-07-02T09:47:00.007-04:00

Mom and Dad have the opportunity to be back in America for a 6 month break. During this break, in addition to many fun family get togethers, they have meetings with their sending organization as well as speaking engagements with churches. Our house was close to their first speaking event and to Richmond which is where they had to go for their meetings.

On Friday, we enjoyed a home-cooked meal with ribs, fresh peas, sweet potatoes and corn bread. And for dessert, we took them to one of our favorite places, Yogurt Mountain.

Saturday began with a breakfast trip to Big Eds.

Then, we headed over to the NC Museum of History. Mike and I visited it sometime last year but didn't have a chance to be there long. The exhibits change periodically and this time we saw items from the NC Sports Hall of Fame, a military exhibit, and a wood working/cabinetry exhibit.

After resting for a little while...and realizing our air conditioning wasn't working and checking on that...we enjoyed dinner at another little favorite place of ours called.

We FILLED ourselves with Italian food at its finest! And then had more desserts than we could count! Needless to say, we left with a few bags of leftovers which we enjoyed for a few days afterwards.

On Sunday we went with them to Pine Ridge Baptist Church in Zebulon, NC. Mom and Dad shared a little about Guatemala and what they have been doing in Guatemala. They also shared with the church how they could be involved as well. Many people expressed how much they enjoyed Mom and Dad's talk and that it was one of the BEST missionary visits ever!

An added bonus of speaking at this church was that Mom and Dad got to be with a family from their church in Augusta that they knew before moving to Guatemala.

For some strange reason, we didn't take a lot of pictures of us together. I guess visiting together after not seeing each other since before Christmas does that! :) They are heading back to our house now and will spend this weekend with us too. I'm sure we'll manage to find some picture taking time this weekend! Check back later for pictures from this weekend.

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!

2011-06-19T05:07:00.000-04:00

Happy Father's Day to the BEST Dad in the world!!

I'm SO glad he is going to be in the same country as me today!!

Welcome Back Dad! I love you!

Ever heard of Christmas in July...

2011-06-12T20:26:00.007-04:00

Well, that makes Thanksgiving in June, right??

Sweet friends of ours realized that Mike would not be able to participate in Thanksgiving this year due to work travel and decided to have a dinner just for him. We got together on Friday night for a full Thanksgiving dinner, complete with the kids running around and playing while the adults sat at the table and talked through the evening.

We filled ourselves with Turkey and cornbread dressing, garlic mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans, apple/cranberry crumble and of course an assortment of desserts! The only thing missing was a football game.

During dinner, we started talking about a fun place to eat in Raleigh, Big Ed's. The group started talking about when we could meet there - how about tomorrow morning?? I told Mike I didn't think I could go tomorrow since I had work, totally forgetting that it was Saturday and not the day after Thanksgiving which I normally work! We really were in the Thanksgiving spirit!

We did meet at Big Ed's on Saturday and had the most amazing breakfast together! All 10 of us! I just think we might be doing this again in the near future...

We are so blessed to have friends who love and support us! Looking forward to many more fun times together.

Hidden for a time...

2011-05-04T22:42:00.006-04:00

Wait–verb (used without object)
1. to remain inactive or in a state of repose, as until something expected happens (often followed by for, till, or until )
2. (of things) to be available or in readiness
3. to remain neglected for a time

We find ourselves waiting for many things - some wait for the bus or payday, others wait for vacations or holidays, some wait for visitors (like my parents coming home for Stateside), some wait for children to arrive...others for children to leave. Whoever we are, we will at some point find ourselves waiting. Sometime waiting causes us to feel rejected and grieved. We do feel neglected...even to the point of thinking that maybe God has forgotten about us. But it is WHAT we doing and HOW we respond in the waiting that makes the difference.

I was reading through some familiar Scripture this morning. Scripture that has carried me through some of my own waiting. The verses are found in Lamentations chapter 3.

"The Lord's lovingkindnesses indeed never cease, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness. 'The Lord is my portion' says my soul, 'Therefore I have hope in Him.' The Lord is good to those who wait for Him, to the person who seeks Him. It is good that he waits silently for the salvation of the Lord." (vs. 22-26)

These verses have brought perspective back during some of my most difficult days of waiting. They have been a reminder to me that the Lord is good to those that wait. What I found this morning were verses that follow these...hidden for a time...

"For the Lord will not reject forever, for if He causes grief, then He will have compassion according to His abundant lovingkindness." (vs. 31-32)

What a wonderful reminder that the Lord will not forget me and He has compassion on me! The definition of compassion is a feeling of deep sympathy and sorrow for another who is stricken by misfortune, accompanied by a strong desire to alleviate the suffering. The Lord has been walking with me through this waiting period wanting to take away my suffering...What an amazing thought!

I am so blessed that the Lord has provided for us some of the very things we have been waiting for...and has provided in abundance more than we could have imagined...but only and all in HIS timing. "For the Lord will not reject forever...The Lord is good to those who wait for Him."

So, what are you waiting for?

Wakeboard Season has Officially Begun!!

2011-04-26T21:27:00.007-04:00

...for Mike, that is! The water is still a little cold for Miriam.

We have been able to go out with our friends the Thompsons a couple of times so far and had so much fun already! We are just really ready for warm air and water temps! May is just around the corner though.

First time out - the gang - Josh, Wes, and Mike. Bianca and I (and Isabelle) were along for the ride this time.

It started out with a little game of Rock, Paper, Scissors to decide who would be first out. Thankfully, Josh and his ingenuity has rigged up a hot water hose so they can warm up the wet suits before making the plunge. I think the water temps were in the upper 50s this day.

This past weekend, Mike was able to have another good day on the lake. He had his best fans cheering for him!

A day that I will never forget...

2011-01-29T12:14:00.004-05:00

January 28, 1986

I remember sitting with my 1st grade class in Ms. Berry's room at Blossomwood Elementary, so excited that a teacher, just like mine, was going into space. Having the Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville made this seem more real...I had seen spaceships just like the one they were flying. I knew this was an exciting day, not just because we were going to watch TV in class, but because parents were there too and we had talked about it in class - how a real life teacher was an astronaut and how we were really going to be watching them lift off.

I remember seeing them lift off and then, the accident. As a 1st grader, I didn't understand what happened but I knew it was bad. I remember the teacher and parents kind of being frozen and then the TV being turned off. I remember later hearing from the teachers and principal that something had gone wrong and that the astronauts had died and that included the teacher. I remember feeling sad for her students and not understanding what would happen now.

But, I remember life going on somehow. I remember school going on. I remember still visiting the Space and Rocket Center. I remember people still talking about being astronauts and going into space.

What I don't remember - maybe because I didn't understand "big people talk" or maybe because I didn't get to watch because it was past my 1st grade bedtime - is the eloquency with which our President spoke that day, his appreciation to the ones that had lost their lives and to their families, the hope that the space program would continue, the encouragement to school children across America to continue their dreams, the knowledge that sometimes exploration ends in failure but that we have to keep their dream alive and press on.

I'm sure, like me, you too remember this day. Maybe you were one of those school children across America watching just like me. Or maybe you were at work huddled around a TV. Or you were at home watching while your small children were sleeping. Maybe you too remember the tragic event but forgot the words that were spoken afterwards. Listen and remember...

White Christmas!

2010-12-29T21:37:00.001-05:00

This year was our first "White Christmas". Although we were in GA over Christmas (and got snow there too!), it snowed quite a bit at our house. We got back Monday night to a winter wonderland. Polly, Blue, and I played in it a little Tuesday morning. Blue likes catching (and eating) the snowballs. Polly just likes to grab a mouthful and eat it. They both love running around in the snow! What a beautiful site, especially at Christmas!

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=94359&id=1059445769&l=5acde79a7d

Guate pics...for real...

2010-12-29T21:29:00.004-05:00

Well, kinda...I am going the "cheater" way since I have just spent a lot of time uploading them to facebook. Even if you don't have facebook, you should be able to view the albums using the links below.

#1: All of the kids flew in together on the same flight. Mom and Dad met us at the airport and after a quick lunch at the Arkansas House, we got in the mission van to head to their house. On the way up the mountain, the van pooped out on us - literally - on the side of the road. So, we had to wait for a wrecker. Since there was no other way, we had to ride in the van on the flatbed trailer...the first of many crazy experiences of the week! After finally arriving to the house and a nice chili dinner, we crashed in bed. On Sunday, we attended Mom and Dad's church and enjoyed a nice lunch at D'Marta's (cafeteria style restaurant). But no Sunday afternoon naps...we changed clothes and jumped back in the car to head to Panahajel and Lake Atitlan!

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=94348&id=1059445769&l=8935a0508f

#2: Sunday afternoon we arrived at the Pana House in Panahajel and settled in. That afternoon/evening we walked around town and took pictures with the beautiful sunset in the background. After a quick breakfast on Monday, we (Dad) got a water taxi to go to Santiago (one of the many towns around the lake). After a day of shopping and great lunch, we headed back to Pana for more afternoon shopping and ice cream. Tuesday was our ziplining day! On our way out of town, we ate at another local restaurant and then headed back to Chimaltenango to get ready for our next adventure...the Pacific!

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=94350&id=1059445769&l=711bed54a2

#3: On our way back from Lake Atitlan, we stopped by Chichoy to get coffee and pies for a snack. For dinner, we went to a little place downtown that Mom and Dad like to visit. They have an open grill and the meal consists of grilled beef, grilled onions, grilled potato, tortillas and sauce. With a drink, the total cost is about $2 US.

On our way to the Pacific, we stopped at a "travel center" to get snacks and to get Stephen a pair of swim trunks. Then, before we knew it, the heat hit us! We were able to enjoy the facilities and snacks soon after arriving. Can you say "all-inclusive"??

The sand is actually volcanic ash and is black. It looks like crushed oreos and ranges from tiny grains to small pebbles. We enjoyed the ocean and the pool - and played numerous games of volleyball. As a family, we also endured the wrath of the bucket! What a fun time to get away and have some fun in the sun...especially since it was snowing at home while we were there!

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=94356&id=1059445769&l=72d8035dcc

#4: After the Pacific, we returned back to Chimaltenango to spend the night. We got up E.A.R.L.Y. the next morning to catch a bus in Antigua. Our day began at the base of our hike to Volcano Pacaya. This proved to be one of the most difficult things we have ever done but one of the most rewarding!

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=94226&id=1059445769&l=269be7eb50

#5: After the hike to Pacaya, we came back to Antigua for lunch at McDonalds (the coolest one in the world!) and then shopping in the market. Then back to Mom and Dad's for family Christmas and packing! Wow...the week went too quick.

Sunday, we loaded up and hung out at the Arkansas House (mission house) for a little while until our flight. After a few quick pictures and teary good-byes we were on our way back to the US. Can't wait until June when Mom and Dad are back to visit for 6 months!

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=94357&id=1059445769&l=6186ce8829

Finally...Guatemala Trip Photos! or not...

2010-12-28T12:01:00.002-05:00

I'm hoping to get the photos from our recent family trip to Guatemala on here soon. Yes, 900+ photos is somewhat overwhelming so I'm working on a condensed version of some of the more "blog-friendly" photos.

After being gone to Guatemala, and then turning around and going to Georgia for Christmas...the time has just gotten away.

Pictures coming soon...

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

2010-12-23T17:44:00.003-05:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

We hope you remember the real reason for Christmas - Jesus - and know the joy of HIS Son.

A light dusting was forecasted...

2010-12-06T20:54:00.002-05:00

Yeah, right! We were surprised on Saturday to get almost 2 inches of snow! Combined with a fire in the fireplace, a warm drink, and a GREAT football game (WAR EAGLE!) - it was a wonderful day.

And, as nice as these pictures are and beautiful as this snow was...it sure will be nice to head to a warmer climate this coming week!

F.A.M.I.L.Y. T.I.M.E!

I'm dreaming...

2010-12-06T12:06:00.003-05:00

of a WARM, fun vacation to Guatemala with my family!!! After a cold week that started with snow, a few days at the Pacific and other fun places in Guatemala with my family sounds FANTASTIC! Can't wait...Saturday can't come soon enough!

What's better than free??

2010-11-22T20:55:00.001-05:00

Want to get 50 holiday cards free from Shutterfly??

Check out: http://blog.shutterfly.com/5570/2010-holiday-card-collection6/

Georgia On My Mind

2010-11-20T10:04:00.006-05:00

Mom and Dad were asked to speak at a Mission Conference in Tennessee and decided to extend their visit for some F.A.M.I.L.Y. time!! Some friends from their old church offered to let us stay at their lake house. So, we all met last Thursday through Sunday.

We were able to just hang out, enjoy "friendly" competitions of Mexican Train and Uno, have some kid/parent time, watch Mary Margaret tell the story of Jonah and Noah, listen to Jaxon sign "God Bless America", eat some old favorites, and try some new favorites.

On Saturday, we headed to Adrian to enjoy big family time! A lot of my dad's side of the family and my mom's mom were able to be there. In addition to a HUGE table of food and desserts, we were able to finish the evening with a AU/GA game. With our family being split - AU/GA - it was a fun day of rivalry...and of course, the best team won! WAR EAGLE!

The Story of Jonah

2010-11-17T11:10:00.003-05:00

...As given by a little girl named Mary Margaret.

http://www.vimeo.com/16404771

I believe in Auburn...and LOVE IT!

2010-11-09T21:43:00.003-05:00

In recent years, I have heard interviews about some fantastic coaches that have taken coaching beyond the football field or basketball court. Coaches like Mark Richt, Roy Williams, Bobby Bowden, Tommy Tuberville, and Gene Chizik are a few that come to mind. These men have not only been ball coaches but have been mentors, encourager, supporters, and in many cases, father figures to so many that have come from single parent homes.

I love hearing about the bond between players and coaches. How, even after their college playing days are over, many stay in touch. I also love hearing how coaches stand up for their players as if they were their own children, getting fired up as if someone was attacking their own family...which, they have actually become.

Recently, such bond has been tested. Quite possibly the best football player this year, Cam Newton, has been brought into the spotlight under bogus allegations. However, the coaching staff at Auburn, led by head coach, Gene Chizik, has stood beside him and encouraged him to continue to exhibit the leadership and keep his head held high through all of this. In fact, what should be a week of interviews about a HUGE upcoming rival game has been peppered with interviews regarding the crazy allegations.

Well, enough was enough and this week, Coach Chizik stood up for his player, his team, his "son" and addressed the situation. Watch below as he defends his player in a very dignified way. THIS is a man who can put football scores aside and take time to show that he cares about his players individually and his team as a whole.

Way to go Coach Chizik! I believe in Auburn...and LOVE it!

Auburn's Gene Chizik defends Cam Newton

Remembering During a Season of Thanks

2010-11-04T21:02:00.005-04:00

Give thanks with a grateful heart,

Give thanks to the Holy One,

Give thanks because He's given Jesus Christ, His Son.

And now, let the weak say "I am strong!"

Let the poor say "I am rich!"

Because of what the Lord has done, for us.

Give thanks!

Giving THANKS to God the Father at all times and for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Ephesians 5:20

But THANKS be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. I Corinthians 15:57

How often do we give thanks to God for all that He has done? Do we give thanks in the good/easy times AND in the hard times?

In church on Sunday, I was reminded to look back and remember what He has done. God has brought us through so much. Sometimes when we go through a difficult time, it is easy to get stuck and not look back with a thankful heart on all that He has taken us through, not to mention to provide salvation!

WE WILL REMEMBER AND GIVE THANKS WITH A GRATEFUL HEART!

5 years

2010-10-15T10:00:00.006-04:00

A lot has happened in the past 5 years. After remembering a few things and a quick Google search this morning, I was reminded of these things.

2005
Hurricane Katrina
George Bush begins 2nd term as 43rd President of US
Pope John Paul II dies and a new pope, Benedict XVI, is elected
Disneyland celebrates 50th birthday
Lance Armstrong wins his 7th straight Tours de France
Notable Deaths: Rosa Parks, Johnny Carson, William Rehnquist

2006
Saddam Hussein was charged and found guilty of crimes against humanity and sentenced to death by hanging
Winter Games took place in Turin, Italy
Nintendo Wii was released
Pluto was downgraded from a planet to a dwarf planet

2007
VA Tech massacre took place on April 16 - 32 students killed
Peru earthquake 8.0 - 500 dead
Nancy Pelosi becomes the 1st female speaker of US Congress (for better or worse!)
Introduction of the Apple iPhone
Minneopolis Bridge collapses into Mississippi River during rush-hour traffic
Miriam's sister, Deborah gets married

2008
Fidel Castro steps down as President of Cuba after almost 50 years
Olympic Tourch relay begins in Olympia, Greece to promote 2008 Beijing Olympics
Michael Phelps wins 8 gold medals at Beijing Olympics
Notable deaths: Charlton Heston, Paul Newman
Miriam's parents move to Costa Rica for language school

2009
Barak Obama becomes 44th President
H1N1 outbreak
Slovakia joins EU
Balloon Boy Hoax
Plane crash on the Hudson
Guantanamo closed
Notable deaths: Michael Jackson, Farrah Fawcett, Patrick Swayze, Billy Mays, Ted Kennedy
Miriam's parents move to Chimaltenango, Guatemala

2010
2010 Winter Olympics in Vancover and Whistler, Canada
Haiti Earthquake 7.0
Chile Earthquake 8.8
China Earthquake 6.9
Eyjafjallajokull Volcano in Iceland erupts and disrupts air travel for days
Deepwater Horizon Oil platform explodes resulting in one of the largest oil spills in history
H1N1 pandemic declared over
Landslide in Oaxaca, Mexico
Notable death: Gary Coleman

Even with all of these things that have happened in the past 5 years, it seems like only yesterday that we were finding out that Mike's brother, Mark, had paid the ultimate sacrifice for our country in Iraq. What was one of the most difficult days in our lives proved to become a day that God has used in so many lives! Romans 8:28 says "And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose."

Though that day caught us by surprise, Mark's death did not catch God by surprise. God had numbered Mark's days and had prepared him for that day. And, He walked with us through those most difficult days and continues to walk with us.

We remember Mark today and are so thankful that because he had a personal relationship with Christ, he is in Heaven with God now.

Feel free to comment with your own memories of the past 5 years or of Mark and his influence in your life.

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HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM!

2010-10-06T22:35:00.003-04:00

Happy Birthday to a great Mom! I am so proud of her following God's and my dad's lead to serve in Guatemala. She is a great example to me!

Thanks Mom for showing me what a Godly mother and wife look like!

I love you!

WAR EAGLE!

2010-09-28T14:07:00.003-04:00

Looking good so far! Auburn had another great win on Saturday night - always nice when the 'ole ball coach has a "L" for the week and Auburn has a "W"!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO DAD!

2010-09-11T12:22:00.003-04:00

Happy Birthday to the best Dad in the world!

I'm so thankful for you and your testimony to our family. You have shown us what a man of God looks like. And, you are living it out everyday in Guatemala sharing God's love with people there. Thanks for "not growing weary in doing well."

We love you!

AUBURN GAME WEEKEND

2010-09-11T12:11:00.002-04:00

We had a great weekend away. First we met my brother, Stephen, for dinner. (Sorry - no pics! How did we manage that??) Then, we met Tommy and Christi and Sean in Pine Mountain where we spent the night. After breakfast at Callaway Gardens, we all headed over to Auburn University for Game Day and to meet Jim and Christy for the game.

We tailgated and were able to catch up since it had been a while since we had all seen each other. Then, headed up to the stadium for the game. The game was a first for Christy and Mike so we enjoyed the pre-game shows and found our seats - Row 1, right on the field!

What an experience to be back at a football game and enjoy all the Game Day festivities!

We were also able to go to our old church on Sunday and see some old friends. Then, Sunday afternoon, Mike and Tom re-lived the "Glory Days" at Ft. Benning. Of course, they did the obstacle courses, ropes, and a memory run up Cardiac Hill.

We said "good-bye" to them on Sunday night and then early Monday morning headed up to Scottsboro, AL to see Miriam's cousins at their camp. We were able to spend a few days there enjoying the camp and our time with them. Wednesday morning, we packed up for our L-O-N-G 9 hour trip home.

It was a fun trip, lots going on, enjoyed seeing lots of friends and old places...but we were glad to be home and see Polly and Blue!

It's that time again...

2010-09-02T09:46:00.005-04:00

FOOTBALL SEASON!!

We are entering one of my favorite seasons of the year - Fall and Football. Not only do I love watching football, especially my Auburn Tigers, but there is always a promise of cooler weather, leaves changing into pretty colors, and sweaters, fleeces, and down vests! Now, don't get me wrong, I can hang at the beach and lake with the best of you...and this girl REALLY enjoys having a tan...but there is just something about that cool weather.

Can't wait to see the eagle fly around that stadium on Saturday afternoon!

WAAAAARRRRR EAGLE!

And for those of you who still wonder why Auburn has a tiger, Aubie, as our mascot and has the eagle, War Eagle, at the game too - see here.

Thought for the day...

2010-08-30T21:44:00.002-04:00

Where God guides, He provides.

Isaiah 30:21 "Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you saying, 'This is the way, walk in it'."

Phillipians 4:19 "And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus."

A great example of giving

2010-07-13T08:00:00.004-04:00

The video below is a short piece that our local new station did on Mike's mom, Rene'. It is easy to get caught up with what we perceive to be important, though rarely matters in the big scheme of things. It is a great reminder to us all.

7 years

2010-07-12T15:21:00.002-04:00

It's hard to believe that around this time just 7 years ago, we were greeting guests, cutting cake, drinking punch, throwing bouquets and garters, and soon leaving for a great honeymoon that would only begin our lifetime together.

Sometimes it seems like only yesterday and then at times it is a lifetime ago...

Happy Anniversary!

Yesterday, Mike surprised me with a fun spontaneous day at Topsail Island Beach. What a perfect day to be at the beach - clear skies, beautiful water, and wonderful weather. We enjoyed dinner (thanks to Mom and Dad!) at a seafood restaurant not too far away and then home late last night.

Headed somewhere tonight for dinner around Raleigh...

Another fun weekend at Kerr Lake

2010-07-03T11:26:00.005-04:00

Mike's brother was able to visit for a week while he was on a rest break from his job in Afghanistan so we took advantage of the lake house and met there last weekend.

Below are some pictures from the weekend. If the captions cut-off, just click to open larger.

PROOF!

2010-06-06T21:13:00.003-04:00

We made it out to Falls Lake today to enjoy some lake time with Josh. WHAT A CRAZY DAY! Guess everyone else had the same idea that we had. Oh well, it was still fun.

Proof that I can wakeboard!

And...

She's up!

The "oh no!" face...

I can't stand to get lake water up the nose...thus,

Remembering on Memorial Day

2010-05-28T21:28:00.001-04:00

On Memorial Day, we remember Sgt. Mark P. Adams who gave his life for our freedom...MY freedom.

Mark, who was Mike's younger brother, had already served 4 years in the Marines and then began college. While in college, Mark assisted as a wrestling coach at his high school but still felt called to re-enlist into the Marines. You see, because of his division's rotation, Mark had not yet had the opportunity to fight in the war and wanted to go back in the Marines to fight for the cause. So, reluctantly, we said good-bye to him in September 2005.

Mark was attached with to the 2nd Marine Division. Shortly after being in Iraq, he was promoted to platoon leader. Mark's leadership with his men was evident. His men respected him because he respected them.

On October 15, 2005, while on patrol, Mark's humvee was struck by a roadside bomb. Mark had just relieved one of his Marines and was sitting in the gun turret which is the only exposed position on the humvee. He was the only one injured.

It is unusual for a platoon leader, with 30 Marines under him to take the position in the gun turret. But before Mark left for Iraq, he had told us that he would never ask his men to do something that he was not willing to do himself.

We continue to honor Mark. We think of him often. We remember his legacy. We miss him.

Kerr Lake Fun and Happy Graduation Wes!

2010-05-23T20:35:00.008-04:00

Started the weekend with a car packed full of things for the weekend. Polly and I met everyone up at the lake house.

Miriam enjoyed a little skiiing and wakeboarding(!). Yep, finally did it (though there are no pics to prove at this point.)

The Thompsons enjoyed some time on the tube as a family.

Isabelle loved watching "her" men on the water.

Happy Graduation Wes! So glad you could enjoy some time on the lake with us!

Mike got some great runs in with some great grabs!

And of course, Josh always takes things to another level!

Isabelle watching her favorite man...her daddy!

We are so blessed with friends who are easy to be with and fun to hang out with.

Thompsons and Wes, we had a blast! Are you guys free this weekend??

Pictures...that wouldn't upload earlier...

2010-05-14T09:13:00.002-04:00

Updates from Mom’s visit

2010-05-14T09:06:00.000-04:00

It’s been a while and she is back at home now in Guatemala. But here’s an update from Mom’s visit.

Blue and I headed down to GA for the weekend. Mike was enjoying a men’s retreat and Polly hung out with her grandmother. We got together on Friday and the girls all went into “town” to grab lunch and shop a little. We tried to catch a movie but the one we wanted to see wasn’t showing until 7:30…remember “town”, there’s only 1 movie theater and if it isn’t showing when you want to see it – tough stuff! You wait…so we chose to head back to Aunt Wrena’s to hang out and celebrate her birthday.

Saturday was filled with fun times with family. We had a cookout, including homemade ice cream! Very fun times and Mom really enjoyed seeing everyone that was there.

Sunday we went to church and Mom was asked to speak about their work and give an update. What a fun privilege to be able to share with the people who love them and pray for them diligently.

After lunch and clean-up and packing, Blue and I headed back to North Carolina. Quick and LONG trip but so worth it to see Mom while she was here.

She was able to stay for 2 weeks, mostly of it with her mom, my grandmother.

She's here....

2010-04-24T09:53:00.002-04:00

The Mom is back in town...

Since Dad had to go on a trip out of country, it was decided that Mom could come back to visit for a couple of weeks. She has a packed 2 weeks of fun already planned. Bor and Chris picked her up at the airport last night. Then, off to Macon to see a VERY excited grandmother!

The girls are planning a fun weekend together next weekend...more pictures to come!

Welcome back to the States Mom! Can't wait to see you on Friday.

Covet

2010-04-05T08:00:00.002-04:00

Covet - verb: to have a strong desire to possess something that belongs to somebody else

What do I covet? Someone's plane ticket today.

Yes, I know the 10th commandment is "Thou Shall Not Covet." But it is just so hard not to when your sister is on her way down to Guatemala to see your parents for a week!

The only consolations:
1) I was just able to see Dad last month for a weekend visit;
2) Mom is coming to visit at the end of the month for 2 weeks; and
3) We are all going down to Guate in December!

Please remember to pray for my parents, the other missionaries, my sister, and the entire team from Marietta First Baptist that will be leading a pastor's conference this week.

He is not here!

2010-04-04T06:47:00.002-04:00

He is not here, for He has risen, just as He said. Come, see the place where He was lying.

Matthew 26:8

What an amazing God, that He would send His one and only son to Earth to die on a cross to save our sins! But it doesn't stop there - HE ROSE FROM THE GRAVE! And now, we can have eternal life through Him.

Do you know Him? You can...

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. I John 1:9

New Computer…

2010-04-01T18:09:00.001-04:00

So, trying out a new blog function. Hope you are enjoying the spring weather that we are having. 80s today definitely welcome you home. Heading to the park in a little while…

Happy Spring!

I'm LOVING it!

2010-01-30T13:05:00.004-05:00

So, the weather people finally got it right, for the most part. They have been forecating snow all week and saying we could get a significant amount. About the time I got home last night (Friday), it started snowing. After about 1 hour, we already had 2 inches! It snowed all night and morning and we now have around 7+ inches. The deck has spots of 15+ inches from the blowing off of the roof.

Blue is LOVING the snow and constantly wants to go outside. Then, when he gets out, he just runs like a crazy man! He will even pick up a little to eat as he is running. Really funny to watch. Polly isn't as crazy about it. She gets colder faster so after a few minutes of running around, she is ready to get back to the gas logs.

And to think, I am staying in a nice warm house and Mike is backpacking somewhere in VA! Good thing his Big Agnes got here just in time. I am sure he really appreciated having a warm sleeping bag last night. I just talked to him and he said they had 6 inches already, still snowing, and it was forecasted to snow until 1pm tomorrow. Glad they are enjoying it! and have the gear to stay warm and dry.

Great is THY faithfulness!

2010-01-05T19:38:00.006-05:00

I awoke this morning with this song in my heart and it's been with me all day. I am so thankful for God's faithfulness to me and my family. God truly protected my parents yesterday. In what was a very non-peaceful situation, God granted HIS peace that surpasses ALL understanding.

Great is Thy faithfulness, oh God my Father;
There is no shadow of turning with Thee;
Thou changest not, Thy compassions, they fail not;
As Thou hast been, Thou forever wilt be.

Great is Thy faithfulness! Great is Thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning new mercies I see.
All I have needed Thy hand hath provide;
Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!

Summer and winter and springtime and harvest,
Sun, moon, and stars in their courses above
Join with all nature in manifold witness
to Thy great faithfulness, mercy and love.

Great is Thy faithfulness! Great is Thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning new mercies I see.
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided;
Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!

Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth
Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide;
Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow,
Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside!

Great is Thy faithfulness! Great is Thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning new mercies I see.
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided;
Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2009-12-31T23:59:00.001-05:00

Looking forward to a great 2010! I can't believe we are already in a new decade...I remember when the 2000s were SO far away and now we are already 10 years into it!

We are ringing in the New Year with great anticipation as to what God will do this year. We hope you are too.

HAPPY NEW YEAR ~ 2010!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

2009-12-24T23:59:00.000-05:00

Wishing you and your family a very Merry Christmas!

Love,

Mike, Miriam, Polly and Blue

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

2009-12-06T16:34:00.004-05:00

We hope your family is enjoying the Christmas season.

May you remember the TRUE meaning of Christmas this year:
"For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." John 3:16

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

2009-11-25T21:28:00.002-05:00

Just wanted to say Happy Thanksgiving! We have so many things to be thankful for this season and I love that we have a day (for now at least!) set aside for us to be particularly thankful.

I read in Jesus Calling this morning the following that I wanted to share. What a great reminder to read on Thanksgiving Eve.

"Thank Me frequently as you journey through today. This practice makes it possible to pray without ceasing, as the apostle Paul taught. If you are serious about learning to pray continually, the best approach is to thank Me in every situation. These thankful prayers provide a solid foundation on which you can build all your other prayers. Moreover, a greatful attitude makes it easier for you to communicate with Me."

"When your mind is occupied with thanking Me, you have no time for worrying or complaining. If you practice thankfulness consistently, negative though patterns will gradually grow weaker and weaker. Draw near to Me with a greatful heart, and My Presence will fill you with Joy and Peace."

--Taken from Jesus Calling, November 25

May this be a reminder to you also to keep a thankful heart throughout the year, not just on Thanksgiving Day.

Enjoy your day! Happy Thanksgiving!

Lake Atitlan, Panajachel, Santiago, and more!

2009-11-11T08:26:00.010-05:00

Pictures from our visit at Lake Atitlan and Panajachel.

Lunch on the way there

common mode of transportation - hang on!

at Lake Atitlan

boat ride over to Santiago

avacados anyone?

In Guate...finally!

2009-11-08T08:16:00.004-05:00

We left Raleigh at 6am on Saturday morning which meant we had to be at the airport around 4:30! We flew to Atlanta and knew we would have a little bit of a layover...but it ended up being a long layover! We were supposed to leave at 9:50. We ended up leave about 2 hours late because of plane difficulties and having to get a new plane. During our wait, we were called to the desk to check-in...strange since we already had our boarding passes. We had checked our bags all the way through in Raleigh and he had asked about those bags, then gave us new boarding passes and told us to use them.

At first, I was bummed since we were supposed to have the exit row (read: more leg room) and I knew the flight was totally booked. So, we graciously took the new seats and were just glad that it seemed our bags were going to be making it. After sitting down, we realized that we had been given (upgraded) to Business Class! We couldn't believe it!

We were called onto the airplane, had feather pillows and blankets waiting for us, and a VERY nice staff to get us anything we needed. We were like kids! Apparently, the new plane had a Business Class section that the normal planes that are use to go to Guatemala do not have so a lot of us in Business Class were definitely out of our comfort zone! There was a mission team and some of their team was upgraded. What a fun experience!

We realized that our seats reclined in about 50 different ways. We had a personalized lamp, our own movie screen that played not only movies, but games, tv shows, music, and a map of where we were with all the information about the trip...it even had a remote! We had so much leg room, you couldn't even kick the seat in front of you!

The stewardesses kept asking if we wanted anything. At one point, they even came by to get our lunch order! (Pasta or Beef) We heard later that the Coach seating only received the regular snacks of peanuts, pretzel, or cookie. When they brought our meal, we even had a place mat.

Definitely a blessing from God to be upgraded and we were VERY thankful! What a fun trip down.

Can you believe all that leg room? The people in front of that girl are fully reclined!

We finally arrived at the airport a couple of hours late but were greeted by Mom and Dad and over 100 other people! We left the airport and went to Carol's for hamburgers for lunch and a little football.

Carol is house and pet sitting for a couple that is back in the States right now. He is a distant cousin to Polly and Blue. His name is Diogi...prounced D-O-G!

We got our Weim time in!

Then, we left for Mom and Dad's house in Chimaltanengo. After unpacking the suitcase of goodies, we turned in for an early night around 8:30! I'm thinking that the rest of the nights won't be so early!

Hope to post again soon...check back!

Hasta luego...

Adams Weekend at Kerr Lake

2009-11-01T19:59:00.004-05:00

Last weekend, we were all able to get together at Kerr Lake. Mike's dad and brothers have built a house to sell and we were able to stay there since it has not sold yet. Mike's parents, his brother and sister-in-law and their dog, and us were able to hang out together and enjoy the fall weekend.

The dog cousins were able to play together and the human cousins enjoyed each other too. Mike's brother brought down the Wii and we also had a projector so we were able to watch movies on the big screen and play Wii life-size!

On Sunday afternoon before we left, we walked down to the lake and built a fire. The dogs had a blast running in and out of the water and digging in the sand. They were SO dirty and all had baths before we left. I'm pretty sure they were all asleep before we hit the main road. A fun weekend...but they were worn out!

Here are some pictures of the weekend.

October = BUSY!

2009-11-01T14:02:00.006-05:00

Just catching up now...it's been a busy month!

We had a lot going on in the month of October.

October 3: 4th Annual SGT. Mark P. Adams "Make A Difference" Wrestling Clinic
The SGT. Mark P. Adams Foundation along with Orange High School have a day clinic where wrestlers in the area learn about wrestling, Mark (Mike's brother), and the Lord.

October 15: 4th Anniversary of Mark's death

October 17: SGT. Mark P. Adams Foundation Event

The SGT. Mark P. Adams Foundation was established to honor the memory of SGT. Mark P. Adams (Mike's brother) who died October 15, 2005 while serving his country in the United States Marine Corps, In Iraq. To learn more about or to contribute to the SGT. Mark P. Adams Foundation, visit http://sgtmarkpadamsfoundation.org.

Special Speaker: Brandon Graham, served with Mark in US Marine Corps

Special Speaker (Wrestling Clinic): Coach Bobby Shriner

Special Speaker (Faces of Freedom): Rebecca Pepin

Special Speakers (Peru Ministry): Phillip and Rene' Adams

Late shout out to Mom

2009-10-08T20:39:00.002-04:00

I didn't get a chance to post yesterday in honor of my Mom's birthday but didn't want to pass it by without a post.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM!

I Love You!

A visit with the Asian Sensation

2009-10-03T09:10:00.006-04:00

In August, we had planned to have a reunion with Tommy and Christi in Columbus/Ft. Benning. The week before we were to leave, Christi went into labor with Sean - 8 weeks early. We cancelled our trip and prayed that everything would be ok. It was! Sean was born early and had to stay in the hospital for a little while but is home now and doing SO well!

We still wanted to meet up and decided that we would take a little trip to Texas. We had a great time, got to see Tommy and Christi, meet Sean, and eat at a favorite BBQ place - Rudy's!

At Rudy's

It's a gas station and a restaurant...kinda weird, I know.

They are getting used to being mom and dad...and doing a great job!

Dude...you know that's MY coffee mug, right?

Mike drinking out of "Tommy's Coffee" mug.

Sean is already training on the bike...Tommy hopes to have him ready for the 100 miler next year.

Mike playing Tommy at the DP museum.

"See, this is a piece of cake."

What a great dad!

So sleepy!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAD!

2009-09-11T07:15:00.004-04:00

Happy Birthday to a great dad - BIG 6-0!! May there be many more!

Visit with friends

2009-08-01T17:37:00.003-04:00

We were blessed this weekend to have some "old" friends for a visit. Chris and Karl were our SS teachers when we were in Columbus before we got married. They were great friends and mentors to us. God called them to serve overseas and they excitely followed Him. They are in Ameria for a short time before they move to a new place of service. We have kept in touch with them these past 6 years and rejoiced with their praises and prayed for them in their tough times. We were so excited to hear that they would be passing through NC and would be able to stay with us for a night.

So, last night we enjoyed catching up with them and hearing about what God has been doing through them and where God is taking them. It was so refreshing to see a Godly couple who fits so well together and reflects God's love to each other and others. What a blessing for us!

We look forward to continuing our friendship and following them on their next journey.

Chris and Karl, thanks for allowing us the priviledge and pleasure of having you as guests this weekend!

And, thanks for bring "Ranger Coffee" from Larry to us!

More Lake Time

2009-08-01T17:20:00.005-04:00

Our friends, the Thompsons, graciously allowed us to go wakeboarding/skiing with them on Sunday afternoon. What a beautiful day for it with temps in the mid 90s! Where else would you want to be on a hot day like that?

Mike had a few awesome runs on the wakeboard including some great jumps! I got in a couple of ski runs but almost lost my contact in the process. Thankfully, I grabbed it just in time and ended up skiing with it in my mouth for a little while. (P.S. Skiiing with only being able to see out of one eye isn't easy!) I didn't last too long after that but was glad that I got to get back out in the water and try a couple of new things on the skis!

6 years

2009-07-12T13:42:00.002-04:00

So, 6 years ago today was the BIG DAY. So much has changed over those 6 years to bring us to where we are now but we are excited about what is to come. We're hopeful that God will continue to lead us and praying that He will supply a full-time career for Mike in this next year.

After 6 years of marriage, I finally took the advice of marriage counselors and told Mike that this year I expected HIM to plan the day. The only parameters were that it had to be something we both would enjoy, which meant it couldn't involve Chinese food or motorcycles. :) Beyond that, it was up to him - local or out of town, free or involve some $$, inside or outside, whatever...just that he had to plan it.

Well, he really came through. He surprised me with a visit to the Morehead Planetarium (I've been wanting to visit for a while) and a little time in Chapel Hill. Lunch on Franklin St. of some pretty good pizza. Then, we headed home for a little rest time/let the dogs out. Mike then went to the gym for a little work-out and I went to get a pedicure.

His instructions before he left for the gym was that I had to be ready by 6:50 for dinner. I didn't have many hints except for a couple of places that he had thrown out. He wanted to check out somewhere nice and that neither of us had been before. To my surprise, we arrived at Ruth's Chris Steak House for our 7:30 reservations. How fantastic! The service and food were great and we definitely felt like special guests as they made our annivesary dinner special.

After dinner, we stopped by the Observation Deck at RDU to see a few planes land (another something that I have been wanting to do) until it began raining. Then, back home to be greeted by Polly and Blue.

What a fun day! Mike definitely was full of surprises and I enjoyed it all!

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Lake Gaston

2009-06-28T19:50:00.003-04:00

After we got back from the beach, we went right over to Lake Gaston for some fun friend time. We enjoyed skiing, wakeboarding, surfing, and just handing out with our friends. We are so blessed to have great friendships here in Raleigh! BubbleShare: Share photos - Easy Photo Sharing

Mike trying out surfing behind the boat

Beach Fun with Bec and David

2009-06-28T18:56:00.008-04:00

Last week, we went to Gloucester, NC along the southern Outer Banks with Rebecca and David. Blue came with us and Polly had some "grandparent time". We enjoyed a great house on a couple of acres with a nice dock out to the water. One day, we took the ferry to Cape Lookout to enjoy the nice waves and beach. The other days, we went to other beaches in search of even better waves but found that Cape Lookout was the best of the week! David and Mike had fun riding the waves and Rebecca and Miriam did a combo of laying out/reading and joining the boys for some waves. We had a great time together and hated to leave! What a fun time! BubbleShare: Share photos - Find great Clip Art Images.

Memorial Day in D.C.

2009-05-25T20:35:00.002-04:00

Police Escort at Rolling Thunder
Washington, D.C.
May 24, 2009

Gold Star Mothers with Escorts
Rolling Thunder
Washington, D.C.
May 24, 2009

2009-05-25T20:26:00.001-04:00

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2009-05-25T20:23:00.001-04:00

This past weekend, we went up to Washington, D.C. to visit with Mike's family and remember Mark, Mike's brother who gave his life in Iraq for our freedom. We were able to attend Rolling Thunder on Sunday. Estimated to be around 350,000 bikers joined together for a ride from the Pentagon to the Vietnam Memorial Wall. What a sight to see so many joined together to honor our men and women who have given all!

As you celebrated Memorial Day with your families today, I hope you took a minute to reflect on the sacrifice of so many...and the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ who gave His life for you!