(click on the title)
...I am not the oldest blogger in the world...although some may say, now I am.
May I always yearn to learn something new...just like my mom! http://greatgrandmawebb.blogspot.com/
Check out her blog!
Father,
My prayer is that as I age, I always have a child-like faith.
Thank you for my health and the desire I have to keep my mind young.
Amen
Monday, July 14, 2008
Sunday, July 13, 2008
Take Me Out To The Ballgame
When we were in Albuquerque, NM for 4th of July, we were fortunate to hang out with a few of the other "fellows" at the hospital where Mike is working. One of the guys got tickets for us to watch an Albuquerque Isotopes ballgame. We were especially excited, because after the ballgame there was supposed to be a fireworks exhibition! We had hoped to see the fireworks show should Carter and his sleep schedule cooperate. We were geared up to leave if this little guy, who loves to sleep in his own bed, and only in his own bed, would allow.
What we didn't anticipate was the weather, but I'll get to that in a minute.
Carter was a champ! We had fed him before we left for the park. He was happy, dry watching everything! When the crowd clapped, Carter joined in. It was great. The group had bought tickets out in the outfield. This is a really cool ballpark...I've never seen one like it before. Out in the outfield, there is a grassy knoll, tiered for seating and socializing. At the top of the knoll is a midway, filled with carnival games and rides. It's awesome. Carter was instinctively drawn to the midway mezzanine (after his daddy took him for a walk up there). He couldn't get enough of it...if we tried to sit down and watch a little of the game, Carter tried to get to the top of the hill any way he could.
The ballpark is beautiful and that day, the weather was great. It's monsoon season in the southwest and the clouds billowing upward and around the stadium made for a beautiful sunset.
Carter was ready to take yet another walk up to the midway and I volunteered to take him for a walk. Any chance I get to spend one-on-one time with Carter, you'll see me jump at the chance...it's Grandma and Carter time! I love it!
As we're making our way up the little hill, it begins to rain. Lightly at first, with big, fat drops falling downward. The teenagers in the crowd were trying to catch the raindrops on their tongues. It was weird, something I'd never seen anyone do before, let alone teenager who usually try and look cool.
As we continued up the hill I noticed a young family with smaller children, scrambling to gather their blankets and coolers. The young children asked why they had to leave and their mommy said, "it's about to storm, hurry and gather your stuff!". I made a u-turn back to our group and mentioned what I heard. I told them they may want to start folding up the blankets and get ready to leave. I would finish taking Carter up the hill to the midway and when I got back we'd see if indeed, the storm was coming.
I walked Carter to the top of the hill and before we entered the midway gates, it was raining harder. I decided to take the shortcut down the hill back to the group and by this time it was coming down a little harder. People began gathering up their belonging and started toward the exit.
Quickly, and I do do mean quickly, the skies opened up and we found ourselves in the middle of a torrential downpour and heading toward the exit, along with 6,000 other people. The wind kicked up, the lightning began and the thunder rolled....and our car was about a half mile away. Chip and I had Carter. Carter was in his stroller and thank goodness, we did have an umbrella with us. I think we brought it just in case the sun got too hot, but whatever the reason, we had one. Chip and I kept Carter under the umbrella the best we could, while we dodged in and out of the crowd, trying to keep our eyes on Mike and Alyson.
Mike and Alyson were helping one of the young mom's in our group, who was there with her two little girls. Alyson and Mike knew we had Carter and he was safe. We tried to take shelter underneath one of the eaves, but the wind was blowing directly at us and it really didn't help us out at all. The thunder and lightning was getting louder and brighter by the minutes.
Finally, we just decided to go to the car. It didn't look like the storm was going to blow over anytime soon and we didn't want Mike and Alyson to worry about us, so we took off toward the car. Carter, who was under the umbrella and shielded from the wet, was humming the whole time. "Singing in the Rain" came to my mind as we walked through ankle deep puddles and streams. He wasn't freaked out in the least.
We met Mike and Alyson in the parking lot and we couldn't help but laugh out loud. We were all drowned rats. Soaked to the skin, with not a dry bit of clothing on. I literally had make-up running down my face. I'm thankful everyone wanted to keep their cameras dry, because we didn't need or want to see pictures of us, soaked to the bone. We all loaded our drenched bodies into Alyson's car and drove home, watching the most spectacular lightning show I've seen in a long time.
Needless to say there was not a traditional fireworks show that night, But God made sure we saw a spectacular show nonetheless. And in addition, helped create a wonderful family memory!
God,
You are the Creator of everything. You send us the rain, you know where every lightning bolt will strike and how loud the thunder will roar. Thank you for helping to orchestrate a ballgame postponed on account of rain, and turned it into a memorable family experience.
May I always see the cloud with the silver lining in all You do and give You the praise.
Amen
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Happy Birthday Bryan
It's hard to believe it's been 32 years since you came into this world and made it a happier place to live.From the beginning of time it was obvious the path your life would take.
You've loved motorcycles since the day you were born. You used to call them your "umma, umma's" because of the sound they made: Ummmaammmmaaa, ummmaammmmaaa!
Early on we knew you would somehow take center stage. Come hook or crook it was your calling.
So Bryan, as your 32nd birthday comes to an end, may you reflect back and know, that from the very beginning of time you were loved. Even before you entered into this world, God in heaven loved you more than you can imagine. He chose us as your family, and even though you may have questioned his judgement at times, we couldn't have been happier.
Happy Birthday Bryan! To quote another wise woman in your family; "He's a good egg...when he's sleeping"! Love you Bry!
Father God,
32 years ago today you blessed us with our first born. It was at that moment we somehow got a sense of how much you loved us and how you wanted a relationship with us. That's the desire we had when we looked into his tiny face. With each child thereafter, our love got deeper and grew even stronger, not just for them, but with you.
We are grateful for each of our children and the people they've grown up to be. Thank you for these precious gifts.
Amen
Wednesday, July 09, 2008
It's A Boy
Raising Boys
(Roberta I. Teague)
I scrub the wall of fingerprints,
Pick up the mounds of clothes.
I sweep the dirt that shoes track in-
Wish I could use a hose!
Meals are served from dawn to dark,
Dirty dishes crowd the sink.
Just when they're washed and put away-
Everyone wants a drink!
The washer pulls the dirty grime
From pants worn thin and patched.
They look so very neat and clean-
Yuck, look what the pockets hatched!
Broken bones and bloody knees,
I should have been a nurse.
I take it all in shaky stride-
Just grateful it's not worse!
Screams and shouts and arguments
Test the keeping of my cool.
They left the neighbor's faucet on-
See their new front yard pool!
A soothing bath is ecstasy,
A reward at the end of my rope.
Raising boys isn't really bad-
But first I must wash the soap!
A rose can say I Love You,
Orchids can enthrall;
But a weed bouquet in a chubby fist,
Oh my, that says it all!
Congratulations Mike, Alyson & Carter on the news that BG#2 (Baby Gilles #2) can now be referred to as BBG#2(Baby Boy Gilles #2)!!! We're very excited and will continue to pray for all of you. This is going to be fun!
Dear God,
Thank you for this precious gift of life and the joy he will no doubt bring to us. Lord, I pray he will remain healthy and secure in his mother's womb until his birthday and from that day forward.
Lord, as we await the arrival of BB#2, I pray that you help my family transition from life in Nashville to their new life in Albuquerque. Bless them with friends who can support them and love them as their family would, until the day comes and they can join their family again. Bring people into their lives who will help them grow closer to you and who will bring additional joy into their lives.
Lord, we love you and thank you for our granchildren and we trust in your perfect timing in everything.
In Jesus' Name,
Amen
(Roberta I. Teague)
I scrub the wall of fingerprints,
Pick up the mounds of clothes.
I sweep the dirt that shoes track in-
Wish I could use a hose!
Meals are served from dawn to dark,
Dirty dishes crowd the sink.
Just when they're washed and put away-
Everyone wants a drink!
The washer pulls the dirty grime
From pants worn thin and patched.
They look so very neat and clean-
Yuck, look what the pockets hatched!
Broken bones and bloody knees,
I should have been a nurse.
I take it all in shaky stride-
Just grateful it's not worse!
Screams and shouts and arguments
Test the keeping of my cool.
They left the neighbor's faucet on-
See their new front yard pool!
A soothing bath is ecstasy,
A reward at the end of my rope.
Raising boys isn't really bad-
But first I must wash the soap!
A rose can say I Love You,
Orchids can enthrall;
But a weed bouquet in a chubby fist,
Oh my, that says it all!
Congratulations Mike, Alyson & Carter on the news that BG#2 (Baby Gilles #2) can now be referred to as BBG#2(Baby Boy Gilles #2)!!! We're very excited and will continue to pray for all of you. This is going to be fun!
Dear God,
Thank you for this precious gift of life and the joy he will no doubt bring to us. Lord, I pray he will remain healthy and secure in his mother's womb until his birthday and from that day forward.
Lord, as we await the arrival of BB#2, I pray that you help my family transition from life in Nashville to their new life in Albuquerque. Bless them with friends who can support them and love them as their family would, until the day comes and they can join their family again. Bring people into their lives who will help them grow closer to you and who will bring additional joy into their lives.
Lord, we love you and thank you for our granchildren and we trust in your perfect timing in everything.
In Jesus' Name,
Amen
Tuesday, July 08, 2008
4th of July, 2008
This is how we spent part of our 4th of July holiday in Corrales, New Mexico. You gotta love small town, U.S.A.! God Bless America!
Monday, July 07, 2008
Crazy, Random Thoughts
So, there are a ton of thoughts going through my mind. So many so that I'm having a hard time organizing them. I want to post something poignant and thought provoking, but what the hey, it's no use. Here are my thoughts for today...
I attended a memorial service today for a 10 year old little boy in our church family. When a child dies you can't help but ask, why? When an adult passes, for some reason, I can wrap my mind around it. When it's a child, that's a little more difficult. I have to admit, through the stories and the eulogies people spoke today, I saw how God will use this tragedy and will continue to use Joseph's life to touch people. Joseph brought an awful lot of happiness to a lot of people. I've been on this planet 5 times longer than little Joseph and I have to wonder if I will leave as important a legacy and Joseph has.
Random thoughts continue:
Happy birthday Dr. Mike. 30 years old...you don't look a day over 29!
We love you very much and are very proud of you!
Happy Birthday Jack K. You bring a huge smile to my face each and every time I see you. I can't believe you're 2 years old! You make the time between visits with Carter bearable! I hope your day was fun!
You must read this book: The Shack by William P. Young
I finished it this weekend on the trip to ABQ. I cried. We have an awesome God who "is very fond of you". To further quote a reviewer: "It offers one of the most poignant views of God and how he relates to humanity..." "It will encourage those who already know him but also engage those who have not yet recognized his work in their lives." On the back of the book it says: Mackenzie Allen Philips' youngest daughter, Missy, has been abducted during a family vacation and evidence that she may have been brutally murdered is found in an abandoned shack deep in the Oregon wilderness. Four years later in the midst of his Great Sadness, Mack receives a suspicious note, apparently from God, inviting him back to that shack for a weekend.
Against his better judgment he arrives at the shack on a wintry afternoon and walks back into his darkest nightmare. What he finds there will change Mack's world forever.
In a world where religion seems to grow increasingly irrelevant The Shack wrestles with the timeless question, "Where is God in a world so filled with unspeakable pain?" The answers Mack gets will astound you and perhaps transform you as much as it did him. Pick up a copy today...you'll be so glad you did!
Thoughts keep coming:
It rains an awful lot in Albuquerque during monsoon season. I've seen it in movies, but I've never been caught in a literal, torrential down pour before...I can never say that again.
There are never enough hours in the day.
There are never enough weekends in a month.
There are never enough vacation days in a year.
Sigh...
This isn't complaining...this is merely an observation.
I have the cutest grandson on the planet:
We're expecting an equally cute grandchild in December...can't wait until Wednesday when we find out if we're expecting a baby boy or a baby girl!
I came home tonight to discover I'd left the refrigerator door open, all day long while I was at work. Today was an exceptionally long day too, with the memorial service and all. I heard the refrigerator door alarm going off the second I walked in the house. The temperature read 139 degrees in the fridge. Normal temp is 42 degrees....good times!...Good news; I didn't have much food in there. We've been gone so much the last several weeks I haven't done much grocery shopping lately. Must look for the silver lining!
So, even after clearing my mind of these random thoughts, I still feel my brain is one jumbled up mess.
Deep sigh...I will try again tomorrow.
Father God,
Please help me to slow down just a little. Help me to see You in everything I do and everyone I see. May I be a reflection of You to others. Help me to decipher the random thoughts that are constantly running through my head. If there is something You are trying to tell me, help me to slow down, remain quiet and hear Your voice.
Forgive me for constantly having an endless list of things to do that run through my head. Help me to trust You more and depend on me less. Your timing is perfect and I see that every day. Help me to loosen my hands from the "controller" and give it completely over to you.
I love you God.
I attended a memorial service today for a 10 year old little boy in our church family. When a child dies you can't help but ask, why? When an adult passes, for some reason, I can wrap my mind around it. When it's a child, that's a little more difficult. I have to admit, through the stories and the eulogies people spoke today, I saw how God will use this tragedy and will continue to use Joseph's life to touch people. Joseph brought an awful lot of happiness to a lot of people. I've been on this planet 5 times longer than little Joseph and I have to wonder if I will leave as important a legacy and Joseph has.
Random thoughts continue:
Happy birthday Dr. Mike. 30 years old...you don't look a day over 29!
We love you very much and are very proud of you!Happy Birthday Jack K. You bring a huge smile to my face each and every time I see you. I can't believe you're 2 years old! You make the time between visits with Carter bearable! I hope your day was fun!
You must read this book: The Shack by William P. Young
I finished it this weekend on the trip to ABQ. I cried. We have an awesome God who "is very fond of you". To further quote a reviewer: "It offers one of the most poignant views of God and how he relates to humanity..." "It will encourage those who already know him but also engage those who have not yet recognized his work in their lives." On the back of the book it says: Mackenzie Allen Philips' youngest daughter, Missy, has been abducted during a family vacation and evidence that she may have been brutally murdered is found in an abandoned shack deep in the Oregon wilderness. Four years later in the midst of his Great Sadness, Mack receives a suspicious note, apparently from God, inviting him back to that shack for a weekend. Against his better judgment he arrives at the shack on a wintry afternoon and walks back into his darkest nightmare. What he finds there will change Mack's world forever.
In a world where religion seems to grow increasingly irrelevant The Shack wrestles with the timeless question, "Where is God in a world so filled with unspeakable pain?" The answers Mack gets will astound you and perhaps transform you as much as it did him. Pick up a copy today...you'll be so glad you did!
Thoughts keep coming:
It rains an awful lot in Albuquerque during monsoon season. I've seen it in movies, but I've never been caught in a literal, torrential down pour before...I can never say that again.
There are never enough hours in the day.
There are never enough weekends in a month.
There are never enough vacation days in a year.
Sigh...
This isn't complaining...this is merely an observation.
I have the cutest grandson on the planet:
We're expecting an equally cute grandchild in December...can't wait until Wednesday when we find out if we're expecting a baby boy or a baby girl!
I came home tonight to discover I'd left the refrigerator door open, all day long while I was at work. Today was an exceptionally long day too, with the memorial service and all. I heard the refrigerator door alarm going off the second I walked in the house. The temperature read 139 degrees in the fridge. Normal temp is 42 degrees....good times!...Good news; I didn't have much food in there. We've been gone so much the last several weeks I haven't done much grocery shopping lately. Must look for the silver lining!
So, even after clearing my mind of these random thoughts, I still feel my brain is one jumbled up mess.
Deep sigh...I will try again tomorrow.
Father God,
Please help me to slow down just a little. Help me to see You in everything I do and everyone I see. May I be a reflection of You to others. Help me to decipher the random thoughts that are constantly running through my head. If there is something You are trying to tell me, help me to slow down, remain quiet and hear Your voice.
Forgive me for constantly having an endless list of things to do that run through my head. Help me to trust You more and depend on me less. Your timing is perfect and I see that every day. Help me to loosen my hands from the "controller" and give it completely over to you.
I love you God.
Monday, June 23, 2008
You Like Tomato and I Like Tomahto
Look what I grew!! I know, I really am getting old! In April I planted a little garden. I didn't know anything about gardening, but I wanted to try. I read a little on the internet and decided I would give it a shot. I planted a cherry tomato plant and 60+ days later this is what I have! I had a little salad the other day and went out in the backyard and picked tomatoes off the vine to complete the salad! Perfect and so delicious! I've decided that next year I'll go bigger and I plan to plant several different varieties of tomatoes. I also want to try and grow some squash and zucchini! Happy Gardening!
My thumb might not be green, but it's getting there!
We've been back from "vacation" for almost a week now. We seriously needed a vacation to recover from our vacation. We're so happy we were able to help Alyson, Mike and Carter with this move. Alyson & Mike are getting settled into the new house. Mike's folks went out to ABQ last weekend and made tremendous progress in the backyard...it looks amazing. I'll try and get some pictures the next time we're out there.
Here are a few pictures I took of the house before we left for the airport last Tuesday:
As you can see Alyson busted her bottom and got the house in really good shape before Mike got home!
I think she mentioned she has 15 boxes in the garage still left to unpack, but they're going to wait awhile. They're going to enjoy the next week before Mike starts work at the hospital by exploring Albuquerque. We're all looking forward to learning more about the city Baby Gilles #2 will call it's birthplace.
Speaking of Baby Gilles #2, we should find out if we're expecting a baby boy or a baby girl on July 9th. We can't wait! Alyson is actually feeling very good. While we were there moving, cleaning and packing you would never have known she was expecting. Her energy level, her attitude the way she kept going, she inspired us all. Way to go Alyson!
Update on the injuries that occured during the move:
*Chip's head is completely healed. His hair will cover the scar.
*Carter's little face healed very quickly. Within 2-3 days you couldn't even tell he'd been bitten. (The dog is still being watched very closely!)
*The cardinal...is in heaven!
This will be the last post about the trip across country. Again, we thank you for all your prayers and your notes and calls of encouragement. The Gilles' will possibly be moving again in 3 - 4 years....By then this memory may be like childbirth. You know, when you forget the bad parts of the experience and only remember the good and we'll probably make ourselves available to help again. Although by then, they'll probably be able to afford to hire professional movers!
I leave you with this adorable picture of our little guy enjoying a popsicle. Oh, it's good to be a kid!
Father,
We thank you for all the blessings you gave us on this trip. Safe travel, a wonderful time together, the beautiful scenery, the patience, the endurance, etc. Thank you for being with us every mile of the trip.
We ask your continued blessings on the Gilles family has they settle into the routines of their new home. May they see Albuquerque through Your eyes and feel the peace in knowing they are in Your will.
May we be with them all again soon.
In Jesus' Name,
Amen
Monday, June 16, 2008
Kickin' It Cross Country Days 6 & 7
We made it! We arrived in Albuquerque, NM at 9:30 AM on Sunday, June 15, 2008. We knew the final day would be the easiest as far as travel miles go. As soon as Alyson & Carter gave the new house the once over, we immediately began the process of unloading the truck. The plan was to get out the essentials and wait until Uncle Jeff flew in from Las Vegas at 1:10 PM. But once the process started, it was hard to stop. When Alyson, Carter and I left to pick up Jeff at the airport, Chip remained at the house to "unload a few more things" and take a little rest. By the time we returned a little while later, over 1/2 the truck was unloaded! Of course, the really heavy stuff could wait until Uncle Jeff arrived, after all, that's why we asked him to come!
After a pretty quick lunch, everyone got back to work and by dinnertime, the truck was completely unloaded and not a single casualty...Good job guys!
Once the truck was unloaded,the task of putting together all the beds was number one on the "to do" list. It was late, but everything got done on that first day that we hoped would. Alyson was so tired of eating out that she decided if we found the pots and pans in the mountain of boxes, she was cooking dinner for us all. Lucky for us we did (little does she know we all stopped our jobs and sought out that specific box...wink, wink) She made Thai Sesame Chicken that was delicious! We were all impressed and very thankful for the home cooked meal!
Monday morning came way to early, but once we were awake the task of emptying more boxes and finding new places to put them began.
Carter charmed us all as we took our mini breaks to play with him as we waited for the cable guy to show up and install the cable and internet. Carter loves to put anything over his head to hide his eyes and then walk around and bump into things.
It's hysterical. He doesn't do this slowly and cautiously, he walked until he bumps into something or someone, then laughs hysterically...the laughter is so contagious!
Mike's last day of work ended around 11:00 AM this morning and he hit the road around 1:45 PM. He made it to the Little Rock area and will stay at Todd Bauer's parent's house tonight. He'll head west tomorrow morning and the plan is to try and drive all the way through, unless he gets too fatigued. If he can make it all the way through, he'll be here sometime Tuesday, otherwise he'll get into ABQ on Wednesday.
Uncle Jeffrey flew home tonight. We worked him hard and it was sad to have him leave so quickly. I hope now that everyone is closer, there will be more visits for everyone! We were so thankful Jeff agreed to come and help, there is literally no way, I could have done his share of the lifting and moving that he did! Thank you again, Jeff! You were awesome and Carter sure enjoyed you visit!
Well, I will try and take more pictures of the house now that the 'stuff' is put away. I can't believe how nicely things are coming together. Alyson couldn't do a lot of the lifting, but she's worked her tail off getting things put away. Everything is looking amazing!
Please remember Mike in your prayers. Until tomorrow...
God,
We lift Mike up to you as he travels to Albuquerque. May his trip be as uneventful as our was. May he arrive here rested and ready to pitch in to make this house their home. We ask for clear skies and safe, courteous drivers on the road.
We thank you for all the blessings you've given us on this trip and everyday. We are so unworthy of them, yet you keep giving them to us. We love you Lord, may everyone who meets us, see a glimpse of You.
In Jesus' Name...Amen
PS: Alyson has been receiving frequent calls from the 'friends' from Nashville. Sounds like just about everyone is finishing up their business in Nashville and are leaving or have left for their new locations. Everyone is very sad and somewhat homesick already, but they're moving forward! Good luck everyone....you are loved and will be missed terribly! May God bless you on this new leg of your journey.
Take care...
After a pretty quick lunch, everyone got back to work and by dinnertime, the truck was completely unloaded and not a single casualty...Good job guys!
Once the truck was unloaded,the task of putting together all the beds was number one on the "to do" list. It was late, but everything got done on that first day that we hoped would. Alyson was so tired of eating out that she decided if we found the pots and pans in the mountain of boxes, she was cooking dinner for us all. Lucky for us we did (little does she know we all stopped our jobs and sought out that specific box...wink, wink) She made Thai Sesame Chicken that was delicious! We were all impressed and very thankful for the home cooked meal!
Monday morning came way to early, but once we were awake the task of emptying more boxes and finding new places to put them began.
Carter charmed us all as we took our mini breaks to play with him as we waited for the cable guy to show up and install the cable and internet. Carter loves to put anything over his head to hide his eyes and then walk around and bump into things.
It's hysterical. He doesn't do this slowly and cautiously, he walked until he bumps into something or someone, then laughs hysterically...the laughter is so contagious!
Mike's last day of work ended around 11:00 AM this morning and he hit the road around 1:45 PM. He made it to the Little Rock area and will stay at Todd Bauer's parent's house tonight. He'll head west tomorrow morning and the plan is to try and drive all the way through, unless he gets too fatigued. If he can make it all the way through, he'll be here sometime Tuesday, otherwise he'll get into ABQ on Wednesday.
Uncle Jeffrey flew home tonight. We worked him hard and it was sad to have him leave so quickly. I hope now that everyone is closer, there will be more visits for everyone! We were so thankful Jeff agreed to come and help, there is literally no way, I could have done his share of the lifting and moving that he did! Thank you again, Jeff! You were awesome and Carter sure enjoyed you visit!Well, I will try and take more pictures of the house now that the 'stuff' is put away. I can't believe how nicely things are coming together. Alyson couldn't do a lot of the lifting, but she's worked her tail off getting things put away. Everything is looking amazing!
Please remember Mike in your prayers. Until tomorrow...
God,
We lift Mike up to you as he travels to Albuquerque. May his trip be as uneventful as our was. May he arrive here rested and ready to pitch in to make this house their home. We ask for clear skies and safe, courteous drivers on the road.
We thank you for all the blessings you've given us on this trip and everyday. We are so unworthy of them, yet you keep giving them to us. We love you Lord, may everyone who meets us, see a glimpse of You.
In Jesus' Name...Amen
PS: Alyson has been receiving frequent calls from the 'friends' from Nashville. Sounds like just about everyone is finishing up their business in Nashville and are leaving or have left for their new locations. Everyone is very sad and somewhat homesick already, but they're moving forward! Good luck everyone....you are loved and will be missed terribly! May God bless you on this new leg of your journey.
Take care...
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Kickin' It Cross Country Day 5
Well today was the day we were all dreading. We knew it would be a very long day and we didn't quite know what it would look like for us all.....and the good news is...WE SURVIVED IT! 10 Hours on the road and really only one casualty for the day...one little red cardinal bird flew right into Alyson's car first thing this morning as we left Arkansas...may he rest in peace.
Last night in Little Rock we had a severe thunderstorm that went on all night long. The lightning and thunder was like nothing I've never seen or heard before! I thought for sure Carter and the dogs would have been kept up all night with the noise, but Alyson said they pretty much slept right through it. I forgot, they've lived with these kinds of storms for the last three years!
We decided to hit the road at 5:30 AM and get a jump on the day. We weren't too far off schedule, we actually left at 5:45 AM and it was still raining, but within an hour it had cleared up and we had great weather the rest of the day.
Today's journey took us over 600 miles, which I wouldn't recommend to anyone. It was a very long day...but it's over. I honestly don't remember what time it was when we rolled into the La Quinta in Amarillo, TX. The last several hours are a blur. We got in our rooms and it immediately began raining and severe thunderstorms are in the forecast for tonight.
Once we got settled into our rooms, had a little dinner, Carter had a bath and then he came over to our room where he watched NOGGIN videos on the computer.
There's nothing better, after a very long day on the road, than to chill with "Pop Pop", aka Grandpa, and friends from NOGGIN.com.
Tomorrow should be a relatively easy day in comparison. We plan to leave by 5:00 AM and be in Albuquerque by 11:00 AM. Uncle Jeffy is flying in around 1:30 PM to help unload the truck and leaving at that time will get us in ABQ in plenty of time to pick him up.
Here are a few pictures from the last several days:
The moving van outside of their Nashville home:
Chip's little bump on his "noggin"...it's doing much better today.
Here's the moving van completely full. Please pray that everything arrives in ABQ in the same condition as it was packed. The roads in Oklahoma were the worst and Chip said he's sure the load shifted.
Lord,
This has been a great couple of days. And, as we get ready to wind this trip down, again we give You thanks for it all. We're so grateful our family will be moving closer. We pray they will find ABQ the perfect place for them during these next three years. May Mike's time at this hospital teach him everything he needs to know to take into his own field of medicine. God, You have gifted him and we trust in the plans You already have laid out for him. You are the Ultimate Healer and we give you the praise!
Amen
"Don’t worry about anything, instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done."
Philippians 4:6, NLT
Let me just say right here, thank you for all your prayers. We have felt them and appreciate them more than you'll know.
When we arrive in ABQ tomorrow our internet access may be limited as the cable won't be installed until Monday at the new house. So this could be the final post until we get back home to Vegas. Don't worry if you don't see anything for a couple of days, I'll recap very soon.
God Bless!
Last night in Little Rock we had a severe thunderstorm that went on all night long. The lightning and thunder was like nothing I've never seen or heard before! I thought for sure Carter and the dogs would have been kept up all night with the noise, but Alyson said they pretty much slept right through it. I forgot, they've lived with these kinds of storms for the last three years!
We decided to hit the road at 5:30 AM and get a jump on the day. We weren't too far off schedule, we actually left at 5:45 AM and it was still raining, but within an hour it had cleared up and we had great weather the rest of the day.
Today's journey took us over 600 miles, which I wouldn't recommend to anyone. It was a very long day...but it's over. I honestly don't remember what time it was when we rolled into the La Quinta in Amarillo, TX. The last several hours are a blur. We got in our rooms and it immediately began raining and severe thunderstorms are in the forecast for tonight.
Once we got settled into our rooms, had a little dinner, Carter had a bath and then he came over to our room where he watched NOGGIN videos on the computer.
There's nothing better, after a very long day on the road, than to chill with "Pop Pop", aka Grandpa, and friends from NOGGIN.com.
Tomorrow should be a relatively easy day in comparison. We plan to leave by 5:00 AM and be in Albuquerque by 11:00 AM. Uncle Jeffy is flying in around 1:30 PM to help unload the truck and leaving at that time will get us in ABQ in plenty of time to pick him up.
Here are a few pictures from the last several days:
The moving van outside of their Nashville home:
Chip's little bump on his "noggin"...it's doing much better today.
Here's the moving van completely full. Please pray that everything arrives in ABQ in the same condition as it was packed. The roads in Oklahoma were the worst and Chip said he's sure the load shifted.
Lord,
This has been a great couple of days. And, as we get ready to wind this trip down, again we give You thanks for it all. We're so grateful our family will be moving closer. We pray they will find ABQ the perfect place for them during these next three years. May Mike's time at this hospital teach him everything he needs to know to take into his own field of medicine. God, You have gifted him and we trust in the plans You already have laid out for him. You are the Ultimate Healer and we give you the praise!
Amen
"Don’t worry about anything, instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done."
Philippians 4:6, NLT
Let me just say right here, thank you for all your prayers. We have felt them and appreciate them more than you'll know.
When we arrive in ABQ tomorrow our internet access may be limited as the cable won't be installed until Monday at the new house. So this could be the final post until we get back home to Vegas. Don't worry if you don't see anything for a couple of days, I'll recap very soon.
God Bless!
Friday, June 13, 2008
Kickin' It Cross Country Day 4
This will be a short post today...we're tired and the adventure continues bright and early tomorrow morning...at 5:30 AM...tomorrow is our long day of traveling. We will probably be in the road 10 hours tomorrow...
Today was a good day. Weather was relatively cooperative. We hit a major thunderstorm a few miles out of Nashville, but other than that we had plenty of sunshine.
We arrived in Little Rock, Arkansas at 5:00 in the afternoon. It was, thankfully, a pretty uneventful drive. We split the puppies up, Alyson & I took Briley and Chip took Brody. When they aren't together, they do better. (more on the puppies in a minute)
Carter hung in there like a champ early in the day. By late afternoon, he had enough of being in the car. No video, toy and silly games seemed to do the trick. Thankfully, when we arrived at the hotel there was a pool and it turned his little attitude around. He loved it! I have some cute video I'll post on You Tube in the next couple of days.
When we finished swimming, Chip ran out and brought back Chinese food. It was yummy and we're very grateful he did the running. Thanks Chip! While we enjoyed our dinner, Carter was playing on the floor with the puppies and the next thing we heard was growling, squeeling and then tears. Briley had gotten upset with Carter and bit his little face. Thankfully, it was a superficial bite...it did draw a little blood, but within 5 minutes Carter was back to his normal self and I'm not so sure Briley will be the same...we're watching him like a hawk and scolding him every chance we get.
There have been lots of changes for this little family during the last few months and I think it's even effecting the puppies!
Please keep the prayers going for us.
Until tomorrow in Amarillo...
God,
We ask your continued presence on this trip. We pray for protection as we travel and as we try and rest between stops. Lord, heal Carter's little face quickly and let there be no adverse effects from the incident.
Please be with Mike as he's separated from his family. I sure the miles between them must feel like a million, especially when Carter got hurt.
We pray for a restful night tonight and a great day tomorrow.
And these things we ask in Jesus' Name. Amen.
Today was a good day. Weather was relatively cooperative. We hit a major thunderstorm a few miles out of Nashville, but other than that we had plenty of sunshine.
We arrived in Little Rock, Arkansas at 5:00 in the afternoon. It was, thankfully, a pretty uneventful drive. We split the puppies up, Alyson & I took Briley and Chip took Brody. When they aren't together, they do better. (more on the puppies in a minute)
Carter hung in there like a champ early in the day. By late afternoon, he had enough of being in the car. No video, toy and silly games seemed to do the trick. Thankfully, when we arrived at the hotel there was a pool and it turned his little attitude around. He loved it! I have some cute video I'll post on You Tube in the next couple of days.
When we finished swimming, Chip ran out and brought back Chinese food. It was yummy and we're very grateful he did the running. Thanks Chip! While we enjoyed our dinner, Carter was playing on the floor with the puppies and the next thing we heard was growling, squeeling and then tears. Briley had gotten upset with Carter and bit his little face. Thankfully, it was a superficial bite...it did draw a little blood, but within 5 minutes Carter was back to his normal self and I'm not so sure Briley will be the same...we're watching him like a hawk and scolding him every chance we get.
There have been lots of changes for this little family during the last few months and I think it's even effecting the puppies!Please keep the prayers going for us.
Until tomorrow in Amarillo...
God,
We ask your continued presence on this trip. We pray for protection as we travel and as we try and rest between stops. Lord, heal Carter's little face quickly and let there be no adverse effects from the incident.
Please be with Mike as he's separated from his family. I sure the miles between them must feel like a million, especially when Carter got hurt.
We pray for a restful night tonight and a great day tomorrow.
And these things we ask in Jesus' Name. Amen.
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Kickin' It Cross Country Day 3
Fatigue has set in. Between the loading, the packing, the cleaning, the crazy humidity,and trying to keep up with Carter...we are tired! We're feeling more aches and pains than I ever thought we could...But we're finished. The house is empty and ready for the new owners. Not without one minor incident though...this morning as Chip was making sure The Gilles Mac would fit in the front of the moving van, he somehow banged his head on the truck door and got a 3 inch gash in the back of his head. He quickly ran into the house and asked if there was a doctor in the house(no he didn't, I'm just joking)...and what do you know, we had one! When I saw the gash I thought for sure we'd be spending the next several hours, not to mention several hundred dollars at Vanderbilt's emergency room. But Dr. Mike quickly went into doctormode and gave him great care, cleaned up the wound and said he'd be fine. We put a little liquid bandage on it and he's good to go. Of course Chip's milking it just a little...only when he's trying to get out of doing something he doesn't want to do, but he's going to be just fine! Thanks Dr. Mike!
Alyson and Mike signed the closing papers on their home late this afternoon, the new owners had their walk-through at 5:00 this evening and everything should be recorded sometime tomorrow. That's it...their three years in Nashville is now over and the next season of their lives begins.
Tonight we're at the hotel and we're all taking it easy tonight. We decided to order take out from Jim & Nick's rather than eat there. We just didn't have the energy. We brought our dinner back to the hotel and now we're just relaxing.
Tomorrow's plan looks something like this: wake up and have breakfast at the hotel. Then around 10:00 AM we'll say our goodbyes to Mike and hit the road for Little Rock, Arkansas. Our best guess should put us in Little Rock around 3:00 tomorrow afternoon.
We had a huge thunderstorm roll in here just a little while ago. As fun as it was to watch we're hoping the bad weather stays here when we leave. Please keep the prayers going for safe travel and clear weather. We sincerely appreciate them!
The fireflies were out tonight to say goodbye.
Until tomorrow...
God,
You have blessed us so much already on this trip and we're very grateful.
As we get ready to head west tomorrow, we ask for your protection every mile we travel. May the vehicles cross the country without any mechanical problems and may the miles we travel go by quickly with the great conversations we share with each other. We pray people see You on this trip through us. Amen
Alyson and Mike signed the closing papers on their home late this afternoon, the new owners had their walk-through at 5:00 this evening and everything should be recorded sometime tomorrow. That's it...their three years in Nashville is now over and the next season of their lives begins.
Tonight we're at the hotel and we're all taking it easy tonight. We decided to order take out from Jim & Nick's rather than eat there. We just didn't have the energy. We brought our dinner back to the hotel and now we're just relaxing.
Tomorrow's plan looks something like this: wake up and have breakfast at the hotel. Then around 10:00 AM we'll say our goodbyes to Mike and hit the road for Little Rock, Arkansas. Our best guess should put us in Little Rock around 3:00 tomorrow afternoon.
We had a huge thunderstorm roll in here just a little while ago. As fun as it was to watch we're hoping the bad weather stays here when we leave. Please keep the prayers going for safe travel and clear weather. We sincerely appreciate them!
The fireflies were out tonight to say goodbye.
Until tomorrow...
God,
You have blessed us so much already on this trip and we're very grateful.
As we get ready to head west tomorrow, we ask for your protection every mile we travel. May the vehicles cross the country without any mechanical problems and may the miles we travel go by quickly with the great conversations we share with each other. We pray people see You on this trip through us. Amen
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Kickin' It Cross Country Day 2
Day 2 started out bright and early. Alyson & Mike had to take their SUV for it's final Nashville service at Darrell Waltrip's car dealership.(I mention this because of Chip's love of NASCAR) The air conditioner whistled...and though it was a pleasant tune, they wanted to make sure we'd have plenty of cool air as we crossed the nation's desert.
When they got back to the house it was time to pick up the moving van....a 26 foot long Penske. Within an hour of it's arrival Mike and Chip were high 5'ing themselves to death at how quickly everything was being loaded up....dun dun dunnnnnn....don't you hate it when you break your own arm patting yourselves on the back? I'm just kidding...even though they didn't have as much room left over as Chip thought they might, everything is loaded, with only the last minute items to go. We started around 9:30 in the morning and finished around 5:00 in the evening. Not quite the "half days worth of work" as some thought it would be, but it wasn't bad at all!
After we loaded the truck and showered...which I forgot to mention the weather....86 degrees and 90% humidity. Mike and Chip both did well in the heat and humidity, but honestly, I don't think I've ever seen Chip sweat as much as he did.
Anyway, after our showers we met all their friends at Jonathans for dinner. Jonathans is a local pub and one of their signature dishes is "fried pickles". Chip loves them and it was his request we go there for one of our last meals in Nashville.
Dorrie & Jared, John, Becky and baby Madeline, Stephanie & Mike, Todd and Jenn, their little guy Brady and their 7 week old daughter Grace, Mike, Alyson & Carter and Chip and I enjoyed a wonderful evening talking about "life". It was great! For us, it was a wonderful testimony to Alyson & Mike's time in Nashville. They have met some of the greatest people and made life long friends, most of us could only dream about!
Todd & Jenn gave them this goodbye gift.
The letters spell out their last name of Gilles. But each letter is from the sign or logo of some of their favorite spots in Nashville; one of the most thoughtful, not to mention cool and creative gifts, I've ever seen.
Tomorrow should be a pretty busy day as well. A few errands to run in the morning, back home to meet the cleaning lady, Mike & Alyson have to sign the closing paperwork on their home then we're heading to the Hampton Inn for our final night in Nashville. Our last dinner in the south will be at Jim & Nick's...one of our favorite "southern BBQ" places in the south. I may just blow the diet for some genuine, southern "sweet tea".
.
Here's Carter in the sprinkler yesterday. He sure had a great time trying to keep cool! It's funny...as he's getting older he's seems to prefer Chip more than me...which makes me sad and happy all at the same time.
God,
It's been a good day and we thank you. We know if You weren't in the middle of this, none of this would would be happening in such an effortless way. Thank you for Mike & Alyson and the easy way they have of meeting people and endearing themselves to them. Thank you for the little "family" they've created while they're away from us. It's a gift and we recognize that gift is from You and we thank You. You are awesome God, to fill the holes in our lives with the perfect people.
May we always recognize that it's Your doing and not ours.
In Jesus' name we thank you. Amen
When they got back to the house it was time to pick up the moving van....a 26 foot long Penske. Within an hour of it's arrival Mike and Chip were high 5'ing themselves to death at how quickly everything was being loaded up....dun dun dunnnnnn....don't you hate it when you break your own arm patting yourselves on the back? I'm just kidding...even though they didn't have as much room left over as Chip thought they might, everything is loaded, with only the last minute items to go. We started around 9:30 in the morning and finished around 5:00 in the evening. Not quite the "half days worth of work" as some thought it would be, but it wasn't bad at all!
After we loaded the truck and showered...which I forgot to mention the weather....86 degrees and 90% humidity. Mike and Chip both did well in the heat and humidity, but honestly, I don't think I've ever seen Chip sweat as much as he did.
Anyway, after our showers we met all their friends at Jonathans for dinner. Jonathans is a local pub and one of their signature dishes is "fried pickles". Chip loves them and it was his request we go there for one of our last meals in Nashville.
Dorrie & Jared, John, Becky and baby Madeline, Stephanie & Mike, Todd and Jenn, their little guy Brady and their 7 week old daughter Grace, Mike, Alyson & Carter and Chip and I enjoyed a wonderful evening talking about "life". It was great! For us, it was a wonderful testimony to Alyson & Mike's time in Nashville. They have met some of the greatest people and made life long friends, most of us could only dream about!
Todd & Jenn gave them this goodbye gift.
The letters spell out their last name of Gilles. But each letter is from the sign or logo of some of their favorite spots in Nashville; one of the most thoughtful, not to mention cool and creative gifts, I've ever seen.
Tomorrow should be a pretty busy day as well. A few errands to run in the morning, back home to meet the cleaning lady, Mike & Alyson have to sign the closing paperwork on their home then we're heading to the Hampton Inn for our final night in Nashville. Our last dinner in the south will be at Jim & Nick's...one of our favorite "southern BBQ" places in the south. I may just blow the diet for some genuine, southern "sweet tea".
.Here's Carter in the sprinkler yesterday. He sure had a great time trying to keep cool! It's funny...as he's getting older he's seems to prefer Chip more than me...which makes me sad and happy all at the same time.
God,
It's been a good day and we thank you. We know if You weren't in the middle of this, none of this would would be happening in such an effortless way. Thank you for Mike & Alyson and the easy way they have of meeting people and endearing themselves to them. Thank you for the little "family" they've created while they're away from us. It's a gift and we recognize that gift is from You and we thank You. You are awesome God, to fill the holes in our lives with the perfect people.
May we always recognize that it's Your doing and not ours.
In Jesus' name we thank you. Amen
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Kickin' It Cross Country - Day 1
Pictures will be posted tomorrow...
Woke up this morning at 2:45 A.M .... uh huh, I said A.M. We got to the airport at 4:15 A.M. and we're off to Nashville! We had a 1 hour layover in Kansas City, Missouri, boarded flight #2 at 11:50 AM and arrived, right on time, in Nashville at 1:15 P.M.
Gorgeous day,temperature in the mid 80's...and so was the humidity! Chip helped Mike with a little yard work, while Carter napped. Alyson and I ran to the grocery store for a few things. When we got back Carter was playing in the sprinkler. Chip looked like he had run through the sprinklers with Carter, but nope...he was drenched with sweat...weather like this sure makes you appreciate the "dry heat" of Nevada!
We had a really nice dinner at Outback Steakhouse and when we got home we sat outside and waited for the "lightning bugs".
They didn't disappoint me this year...they showed up and brought as big a smile to my face as the first time I saw them! After all...isn't that their purpose?
Tomorrow morning, we wake up early. The moving van gets picked up at 9:00 A.M. and the fun begins. Now that Chip has seen Mike & Alyson's "stuff"...neatly organized and packed in boxes,(Alyson got my organizational genes and Chip's packing genes) he keeps saying "this is nothing"..."half a days work at the most"...and he's probably right.
A couple of their neighbors stopped by this evening to say their goodbyes. So far so good...I told Chip this morning, I forgot to pack my waterproof mascara, because I know I'm going to need it.
Please remember us in your prayers!
To be continued. . .
God,
We give you thanks for this gorgeous day and for granting us a safe and fun journey to Nashville today. Thank you for our family and for the friends they have made in this wonderful place. Be with us all as we begin the process of loading up the moving van and preparing the house for the new owners. We ask that you protect us from injury and fatigue and prepare our hearts, minds and bodies for the journey we begin in 3 days.
In Jesus' Name, Amen
Woke up this morning at 2:45 A.M .... uh huh, I said A.M. We got to the airport at 4:15 A.M. and we're off to Nashville! We had a 1 hour layover in Kansas City, Missouri, boarded flight #2 at 11:50 AM and arrived, right on time, in Nashville at 1:15 P.M.
Gorgeous day,temperature in the mid 80's...and so was the humidity! Chip helped Mike with a little yard work, while Carter napped. Alyson and I ran to the grocery store for a few things. When we got back Carter was playing in the sprinkler. Chip looked like he had run through the sprinklers with Carter, but nope...he was drenched with sweat...weather like this sure makes you appreciate the "dry heat" of Nevada!
We had a really nice dinner at Outback Steakhouse and when we got home we sat outside and waited for the "lightning bugs".
They didn't disappoint me this year...they showed up and brought as big a smile to my face as the first time I saw them! After all...isn't that their purpose?Tomorrow morning, we wake up early. The moving van gets picked up at 9:00 A.M. and the fun begins. Now that Chip has seen Mike & Alyson's "stuff"...neatly organized and packed in boxes,(Alyson got my organizational genes and Chip's packing genes) he keeps saying "this is nothing"..."half a days work at the most"...and he's probably right.
A couple of their neighbors stopped by this evening to say their goodbyes. So far so good...I told Chip this morning, I forgot to pack my waterproof mascara, because I know I'm going to need it.
Please remember us in your prayers!
To be continued. . .
God,
We give you thanks for this gorgeous day and for granting us a safe and fun journey to Nashville today. Thank you for our family and for the friends they have made in this wonderful place. Be with us all as we begin the process of loading up the moving van and preparing the house for the new owners. We ask that you protect us from injury and fatigue and prepare our hearts, minds and bodies for the journey we begin in 3 days.
In Jesus' Name, Amen
Monday, June 09, 2008
The Journey Begins
Well...it's finally here. It's time for Chip and I to head south and move the Gilles family to ABQ, NM. I couldn't find an actual map of our route, but you get the picture...We have to be at the airport by 4:15AM....yes, I said AM!!! I have every intention to blog at the end of each day to fill you all in on this journey. How we felt, what we ate, what we saw and what we talked about AND of course....what cute thing Carter did on our trip!
I'm seriously begging for your prayers. Please pray for the obvious; safe travel, patience, health, grace and a grateful heart. But I'm also requesting prayers that He allow us to see the beauty He's created in everything and everyone. Help us all to realize we're all His children...we're all human and flawed and He loves us just the same. Help us to love EVERYONE as He does.
We won't actually "hit the road" until Friday, June 13th...first stop; Little Rock, Arkansas!
God,
I humbly come before you and pray that Your will be done on this trip and always.
I pray you will give us what we need,when we need it;patience when we've run out. Grace when it's needed most and compassion that flows continuously.
I love you God and I pray I honor You in all I do and that You are glorified on this trip. Allow me to be Your instrument this week especially....In Jesus' name, Amen
TO BE CONTINUED. . .
Thursday, June 05, 2008
The Fun Begins...in 7 Days
Alyson has this "ticker" posted on her blog....it reads: 7 days until the Great Gilles Move '08. 7 days? Seriously?
That means 5 days and we'll be boarding the plane, for what might be our last trip to Nashville. That thought can instantaneously bring me to tears.
I will miss you Nashville. I'll miss the weather, the history, the shopping, the Bluebird Cafe, authentic BBQ, and 3 years of memories; lightning bugs, painting Carter's room, evenings with new found "friends", Carter's birth and celebrity sightings!
Yes, we did have a celebrity sighting,while in Nashville. It was our very first trip to Nashville and it was time to go home. We got to the airport in plenty of time and while we were waiting to board the plane, who shows up? Kix Brooks from "Brooks and Dunn".
I'm a huge B&D fan, but I couldn't muster up the courage to get an autograph or even smile at him. I stood back and watched every move he made, until it was time to board the plane.To our surprise, he was heading to Las Vegas and boarded our plane first (he got priority boarding apparently because he's a star!) We were in the "A" group, so we boarded mere seconds after he did and I spotted where he was seated and snagged the seats right across the aisle from him. I knew it was him because he had a huge, diamond studded ring on his left hand that read "KIX"...I guess in case he forgot who he was? Anyway, it was the first (and only) time I felt like a stalker. For the next 4 hours I watched what he ate, what he drank, if he dozed off. All the while, the man NEVER removed his sunglasses....and it was nighttime! Anyway, I got a picture, as non-chalantly as I could on my cell phone and I never uttered a word to him... we never made eye contact... but I was as star struck as anyone could be! I'm a dork I know!
That was the ONLY celebrity sighting we ever had in Nashville, but Alyson had several over the three years.
One time she was in an elevator at the mall with LeAnn Rimes and her husband.
Then more recently, The Gilles' were heading back home to Nashville after a Las Vegas visit and Naomi Judd and Kellie Pickler boarded the same plane!
Alyson said when they walked by, Naomi commented how cute Carter was. You know I always liked Naomi and her music, but now that I know we have something in common...Kellie had no comment...and neither do I!
I'm just saying....Naomi, the next time you're in Vegas, let's do lunch...we have lots we can talk about!
Seriously, I can't believe this chapter of our lives is coming to a close. It's been a blast and I will miss the South "somethin' fierce"! I can't wait to see what God has in store for everyone in ABQ.
God,
We love you and trust in your infinite wisdom. May we never ask "why Albuquerque?" but may we say, "thank you for Albuquerque and all that You give us". I'm grateful my family will be closer to us. May we be open to the new adventures we're presented with in ABQ and may the time in the southwest be as sweet and memorable as the south was for us all. One wonderful memory we're looking forward to watching unfold, is ABQ will be the birthplace of BG2. And when I think of that, a smile immediately comes to my lips!
Thank you God!
Sunday, June 01, 2008
Hectic, Busy, Crazy, Wonderful Life
Let me take a few minutes to share with you some of the cutest kids on the planet (don't worry Carter and BG#2....no matter how much I love them...you two are still my favorite 2 grandchildren...in the whole wide world!)
This beautiful circle of kids are my great nieces and nephews. At the time of this photo I believe they were all ages 4 and under. My niece Shannon has 3 beautiful girls, McKenna, Kyla and Katie and my other niece Melanie (Shannon's sister) has 2 energized boys; Luke and Gavin and one very sweet little girl; Maggie.
Whenever we're all gathered together for birthdays, dance recitals, whatever, it instaneously takes me back 30+ years when my sister Beth and I were the young, busy, believing we were losing our minds, mommies! My oldest son, Bryan and Beth's oldest daughter, Shannon are 8 months apart in age. Not long after that came Alyson, Christopher, Jeffrey and then Melanie. Between us we had 6 kids aged 4 & under too! Throw in our brother's son Joey, a few neighbor kids, and we had plenty of chaos and mayhem....and more wonderful memories than anyone should be allowed to have.
Here they all are before our younger sister Eileen started having her kids. Once she married and started her family, she added 2 more to the fun!
Hot Summer Days of Fun!
GROUP HUG (of the ones who were walking)
Adventures at Disneyland
Our parents finally ended up with 9 grandchildren; Bryan, Shannon, Alyson, Christopher, Jeffrey, Melanie, Joey, Wayne and Alyssa. (Christopher and Alyssa aren't in the photo) and 8 great grandchildren (so far); McKenna, Luke, Kyla, Gavin, Carter, Roland, Maggie and Katie.
I'm really missing those busy, hectic family gatherings. Don't get me wrong, I love this season of our lives, but I do miss having little ones around to watch after and focus all our attention on. Today our neighbor came over with her two beautiful daughters, Stella and Sophie, ages 4 and 2 (23 months apart)...they were so full of energy, giggles and endless questions. We smiled the entire time they were here. I really do miss those crazy, busy, believing I'm losing my mind days.
God in Heaven,
When I reflect back to those crazy, busy days of being a young mother, I have to smile. I'm sure, as I was manuevering through those days, I rarely slowed down to thank you for those little blessings I was fortunate enough to snuggle with, share giggles with and tuck into bed every night.
Thank you. Thank you for the patience you gave me when it was needed most. Thank you for the wisdom you gave me, even if I forgot to ask. Thank you for the grace you lavished on me when mistakes were made. Thank you for your perfect love. My prayer is that my family knows how much I have loved you and leaned on you over the years and they know you are there for them today as well.
Amen
Saturday, May 31, 2008
Westward Bound
So Mike, Alyson and Carter (plus the two pups; Brody & Briley)are moving to Albuquerque, NM in less than two weeks. (I can't tell you how excited I am I can spell Albuquerque :))They sign the final papers on their house June 13th. Chip and I are flying to Nashville on Tuesday, June 10th to help load up the moving van and help them make the trip westward. Couple of thoughts: We have been planning this trip practically since they arrived in Nashville, 3 years ago. And even though we all loved Nashville, we knew at the end of Mike's residency they would relocate somewhere, we didn't know where, but we knew it was going to happen and we would be there to help them move, wherever that might be. What we didn't plan on is gasoline being over $4.00 per gallon!!!!!!!!!!
What the __________ is up with this? And diesel is close to $5.00 per gallon!!!!!!!
Regardless, I am looking so forward to this trip! We'll be traveling over 1200 miles to ABQ in literally 3 days and 2 nights...3 adults, (One old, one grumpy and one pregnant *wink-wink*)one toddler and two busy puppies and YES, I'm really looking forward to it! We'll be traveling in two vehicles (moving van and the Gilles SUV). The first night we'll be staying in Little Rock, AK, night two we plan to be in Amarillo, TX and finally in ABQ on the third day. I've been looking for little toys/games/any distractions for Carter to play with during those long, long days of travel. But Alyson told me yesterday she hooked up the portable DVD player in their car to try it out, and Carter loves it! She says we're "golden" as far as keeping him occupied. Turns out he loves watching DVD's and we shouldn't have a problem as long as we keep his favorites in the player!
The unfortunate part is Mike will have to stay behind in Nashville for a couple of days after we leave. He isn't finished at Vanderbilt until June 17th, so we'll load up, head west and he'll join us a few days later. Good news is Uncle Jeffy will be flying to ABQ to help unload the moving van and to help them get settled and we're very grateful for that!
Here's a few pictures of their really great house in ABQ:
Chip and I made a run out to ABQ to take a look at the new homestead. We're very happy they were able to find such a nice house.
The great room, off the kitchen will be a great place for entertaining!
Well, as I said, we're looking forward to this trip. We do covet your prayers for travel mercies, patience, flexibility and lots of grace!
Gracious Heavenly Father,
We ask your special blessing on us all as we prepare for this trip. Help us to figure out all the necessary details and to let the small stuff roll off our backs. Be with Alyson and Mike as they pack up the home they love and prepare their hearts for the new location that You have called them to. Allow all the tasks and preparations necessary just fall into place and allow them plenty of time to be with friends they must say goodbye to for now.
We know Father that when you called them to Nashville, we didn't know what to expect and Your blessings were abundant. We trust that Albuquerque will be no different. Please keep the fear of the unknown and the anxieties at bay. We pray they lean on You during this transition.
We love you so much and thank you for allowing our family to be a little closer to us here in Vegas.
With a grateful loving heart I lift this up to you. Amen
What the __________ is up with this? And diesel is close to $5.00 per gallon!!!!!!!
Regardless, I am looking so forward to this trip! We'll be traveling over 1200 miles to ABQ in literally 3 days and 2 nights...3 adults, (One old, one grumpy and one pregnant *wink-wink*)one toddler and two busy puppies and YES, I'm really looking forward to it! We'll be traveling in two vehicles (moving van and the Gilles SUV). The first night we'll be staying in Little Rock, AK, night two we plan to be in Amarillo, TX and finally in ABQ on the third day. I've been looking for little toys/games/any distractions for Carter to play with during those long, long days of travel. But Alyson told me yesterday she hooked up the portable DVD player in their car to try it out, and Carter loves it! She says we're "golden" as far as keeping him occupied. Turns out he loves watching DVD's and we shouldn't have a problem as long as we keep his favorites in the player!
The unfortunate part is Mike will have to stay behind in Nashville for a couple of days after we leave. He isn't finished at Vanderbilt until June 17th, so we'll load up, head west and he'll join us a few days later. Good news is Uncle Jeffy will be flying to ABQ to help unload the moving van and to help them get settled and we're very grateful for that!
Here's a few pictures of their really great house in ABQ:
Chip and I made a run out to ABQ to take a look at the new homestead. We're very happy they were able to find such a nice house.
The great room, off the kitchen will be a great place for entertaining!
Well, as I said, we're looking forward to this trip. We do covet your prayers for travel mercies, patience, flexibility and lots of grace!
Gracious Heavenly Father,
We ask your special blessing on us all as we prepare for this trip. Help us to figure out all the necessary details and to let the small stuff roll off our backs. Be with Alyson and Mike as they pack up the home they love and prepare their hearts for the new location that You have called them to. Allow all the tasks and preparations necessary just fall into place and allow them plenty of time to be with friends they must say goodbye to for now.
We know Father that when you called them to Nashville, we didn't know what to expect and Your blessings were abundant. We trust that Albuquerque will be no different. Please keep the fear of the unknown and the anxieties at bay. We pray they lean on You during this transition.
We love you so much and thank you for allowing our family to be a little closer to us here in Vegas.
With a grateful loving heart I lift this up to you. Amen
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
A Year (+) Later....
I started this post several months ago when Alyson and Mike made the trip to New Mexico to look for a house. For whatever reason it was never finished nor posted. I will continue my thoughts now...
Well...it's been a year. Literally a year. A lot can happen in a year and it has. Where do I begin to catch everyone up on my life?
Carter is doing great! He was here in Las Vegas last week (in March) when Chip and I kept him while his parents went to Albuquerque, NM to check out the city and the housing situation. While they were gone we had him for the weekend and it seemed all was right with the world! He made us laugh so hard with his baby antics, his funny faces, silly noises and his attempts to communicate with us! He signs several words "banana", "milk" and "more". By the end of the weekend he was a little confused between "milk" and "more" and I'm sure it was our fault. Whatever he did was so darn cute and we just gave him what we thought he wanted....he just forgot what the correct sign was. By the time the folks came home, we were madly in love and he was so happy to see his parents! It was a win/win....if only Mike & Alyson had fallen in love with New Mexico. On the contrary, they absolutely hated it! We're praying over the next several months someone will come into their lives and share with them the beauty of the state and the next 3 years will not feel one day longer!
5/28/08:
The above thoughts were shared after Alyson & Mike's visit to Las Vegas/ABQ in March 2008...and a so much has happened:
Most importantly: We're expecting Grandchild #2 in December and we're so excited! Carter's baby brother/baby sister is due around December 2, 2008. We're obviously praying for a healthy baby and the sex doesn't matter...but I think it's going to be a girl. Can't tell you why I think that, it might be wishful thinking... I know when I was pregnant with Alyson I thought the entire pregnancy she would be a boy. I had only boy's names picked out. When asked why I didn't think I would have a girl and why I didn't even pick a girl's name name just in case...all I could say was, "I didn't think I would be lucky enough to have a girl". I think Alyson will be lucky enough to have a girl!
Alyson & Mike are preparing for their move to ABQ, NM. They sold their house in Nashville, in literally record time. The house is so darn cute I could see how it would sell so quickly. My emotions are incredibly mixed about this move. I'm elated they will be so much closer to us here in Nevada, but when I think about them leaving Nashville, I get so darn emotional! We have loved, I mean really loved, their time in the south. The friends they've made, the lifelong friendships they have established is something to be envious of. All of our lives have been enriched by the friends Mike and Alyson have made in the South...I mean that sincerely. Todd & Jenn, we sincerely love, admire and respect you. Stephanie, from the first story of how you peeked in their window to hearing the stories of your wedding, you've held a special place in our hearts. Jon & Becky, we loved sharing family time (Thanksgiving) and family memories with you. From hearing all the stories of "Mocksgiving" to all the wedding showers & baby showers, we love you all...thank you for being there. We hope our paths will cross often and forever. To all the rest of their special friends; thank you, thank you, thank you, you've filled the "family "holes" when we couldn't be there and we're thankful!
Well, my emotions are on overdrive and the tears are flowing, so I'll end for tonight...more to follow very soon. I want Baby Gilles #2 to know we're as excited for his/her arrival as we were for his/her big brother's. I want him/her to know all of our thoughts, prayers and the anticipation we feel as we're waiting for his/her arrival...(how long is it before we can find out his/her's sex?)(smiles)
Father God,
I am so incredibly grateful for the blessings you have allowed me to have; a beautiful family, health, wonderful friends and a very nice life. Lord, I pray I will always share You with my famiy, give You thanks for my health and wonderful friends, and may You always hear the gratitude in my grateful heart and the thanksgiving and praise I give you for my life. I love you LORD!
Well...it's been a year. Literally a year. A lot can happen in a year and it has. Where do I begin to catch everyone up on my life?
Carter is doing great! He was here in Las Vegas last week (in March) when Chip and I kept him while his parents went to Albuquerque, NM to check out the city and the housing situation. While they were gone we had him for the weekend and it seemed all was right with the world! He made us laugh so hard with his baby antics, his funny faces, silly noises and his attempts to communicate with us! He signs several words "banana", "milk" and "more". By the end of the weekend he was a little confused between "milk" and "more" and I'm sure it was our fault. Whatever he did was so darn cute and we just gave him what we thought he wanted....he just forgot what the correct sign was. By the time the folks came home, we were madly in love and he was so happy to see his parents! It was a win/win....if only Mike & Alyson had fallen in love with New Mexico. On the contrary, they absolutely hated it! We're praying over the next several months someone will come into their lives and share with them the beauty of the state and the next 3 years will not feel one day longer!
5/28/08:
The above thoughts were shared after Alyson & Mike's visit to Las Vegas/ABQ in March 2008...and a so much has happened:
Most importantly: We're expecting Grandchild #2 in December and we're so excited! Carter's baby brother/baby sister is due around December 2, 2008. We're obviously praying for a healthy baby and the sex doesn't matter...but I think it's going to be a girl. Can't tell you why I think that, it might be wishful thinking... I know when I was pregnant with Alyson I thought the entire pregnancy she would be a boy. I had only boy's names picked out. When asked why I didn't think I would have a girl and why I didn't even pick a girl's name name just in case...all I could say was, "I didn't think I would be lucky enough to have a girl". I think Alyson will be lucky enough to have a girl!
Alyson & Mike are preparing for their move to ABQ, NM. They sold their house in Nashville, in literally record time. The house is so darn cute I could see how it would sell so quickly. My emotions are incredibly mixed about this move. I'm elated they will be so much closer to us here in Nevada, but when I think about them leaving Nashville, I get so darn emotional! We have loved, I mean really loved, their time in the south. The friends they've made, the lifelong friendships they have established is something to be envious of. All of our lives have been enriched by the friends Mike and Alyson have made in the South...I mean that sincerely. Todd & Jenn, we sincerely love, admire and respect you. Stephanie, from the first story of how you peeked in their window to hearing the stories of your wedding, you've held a special place in our hearts. Jon & Becky, we loved sharing family time (Thanksgiving) and family memories with you. From hearing all the stories of "Mocksgiving" to all the wedding showers & baby showers, we love you all...thank you for being there. We hope our paths will cross often and forever. To all the rest of their special friends; thank you, thank you, thank you, you've filled the "family "holes" when we couldn't be there and we're thankful!
Well, my emotions are on overdrive and the tears are flowing, so I'll end for tonight...more to follow very soon. I want Baby Gilles #2 to know we're as excited for his/her arrival as we were for his/her big brother's. I want him/her to know all of our thoughts, prayers and the anticipation we feel as we're waiting for his/her arrival...(how long is it before we can find out his/her's sex?)(smiles)
Father God,
I am so incredibly grateful for the blessings you have allowed me to have; a beautiful family, health, wonderful friends and a very nice life. Lord, I pray I will always share You with my famiy, give You thanks for my health and wonderful friends, and may You always hear the gratitude in my grateful heart and the thanksgiving and praise I give you for my life. I love you LORD!
Friday, March 30, 2007
Guess Who's Coming?
I'm so excited! Alyson and Carter are coming to visit.
Things I want to do while they're here:
1) Show off Carter
2) Visit with my daughter
3) Watch the Today Show with Carter
4) Go shopping with Alyson & Carter
5) Show off Carter
6) Show off Carter
7) Show off Carter
8) Love on Carter
9) Love and Show off Carter
10)Love and Show off Carter's Mom
11)Did I mention I want to love and show off my family?
I'm sure Alyson might have a few things she'd like to do while she's here as well...we'll squeeze those in too!
I CAN'T WAIT!
Things I want to do while they're here:
1) Show off Carter
2) Visit with my daughter
3) Watch the Today Show with Carter
4) Go shopping with Alyson & Carter
5) Show off Carter
6) Show off Carter
7) Show off Carter
8) Love on Carter
9) Love and Show off Carter
10)Love and Show off Carter's Mom
11)Did I mention I want to love and show off my family?
I'm sure Alyson might have a few things she'd like to do while she's here as well...we'll squeeze those in too!
I CAN'T WAIT!
Sunday, March 18, 2007
Nashville's Cutest Baby!
Hello to all my friends and family,
For the past 2 months I’ve been telling you how CUTE my grandson Carter is. And without exception, when shown pictures, you’ve all agreed.
Well, now’s the time to separate those who truly BELIEVE he’s the cutest, from those who only SAY he’s the cutest.
Alyson & Mike have entered Carter in Nashville’s Most Photogenic Baby Contest. The rules are simple; the winner of the contest is chosen by the number of votes he gets. Each vote costs $.50 (that’s 50 cents) and the proceeds will go to benefit Vanderbilt’s Children’s Hospital.
We’re asking for your vote. Again each vote is costs 50 cents and you can vote as many times as you want.
You can cast your vote in a couple of different ways:
1) Make your checks out to: Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital and send it to my home address at:
10396 Missoula Ct., Las Vegas, NV 89178 and I will forward to Alyson.
2) If you work with me, stop by my office with your checks or cash and I will forward to Alyson.
3) If you work with Chip, give him a call and hand him your big donation (come on railroaders, it’s going to benefit little kids who can really use it.) We will forward your contribution to Alyson.
4) If you need more information,you can e-mail me @ dawnbruner@cox.net and leave me your question or a phone number and I will call you back. You can then send me your check and I will forward to Alyson.
5) You can check out Alyson’s blog @ : http://thegillesfamily.blogspot.com and follow her directions for getting a check directly to her.
The winner of the contest gets a CD of all the pictures the photographer took and of course, BRAGGING RIGHTS. Not that I need to have judges or votes to give that to me, but how cool will it be to say, I personally know “Nashville’s Cutest Baby”? Not to mention it going for a great charity, Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital.
Cast your vote today. All the donations need to be to Alyson by April 9th in order to meet the deadline.
I love you all and can’t thank you enough for being so indulgent of me and my new found love, Carter!
Vote today!
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