Category Archives: Children

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Sabbath with the Brass Cousins

June 12, 2010 – 10:24 pm

Sabbath was glorious. After a fantastic Sabbath School discussion and a wonderful church service, we headed home to set out the fixins for haystacks. What made Sabbath so very special, however, was having Tennessee relatives join us! My cousins Matt and Jesse brought their families down to spend the afternoon with us, and it was such a treat!

David got a little bored waiting for everyone to get here…

I know I’m biased, but I LOVE this smile!!!

My handsome father

Okay, I guess I got a little bored, too. Not a good picture of either of us, but had to share our fun…

Don’t ask…

We were all so excited to see cousins again (and eat) that Mom stationed herself by the front door

As soon as they arrived, the fun began!

Cousin Hannah

Cousin Lily

Cousin Levi

Another thing that made today special was that Hannah turned 10! To celebrate, we all enjoyed some strawberry cake and vanilla ice cream. Yum!

I have the world’s greatest mother. She knew that there were 6 energetic kiddos (not counting Dave, Tim, and I) headed her way, and wanted something fun for them. So all week, she’s been planning a spiritual scavenger hunt for them to do. At each stop, they were asked a Bible question, told to sing a song, or told a little Bible story before receiving their prize. It was a blast and the kids loved it! Great work, Mom!

The hunt begins…

Lily was so excited to have a bag like everyone else, but at age 2, she had a tough time keeping up…

Lily was still having a tough time keeping up, so I snatched her up and took off running with her

Aunt Karen reads the question to the adventurers

Before receiving their prize, they were asked to sing “Jesus Love is a Bubblin’ Over”

The prize? BUBBLES!

These three were “looking for something blue”

“Jesus is always there for us, even if we’ve pushed Him away before. Who wants to raise their hand and decide to never push Jesus away?”

Lily had no clue what was going on. When everyone’s hands were raised, hers was not. “Lily! Raise your hand!” Hannah whispered emphatically.

Lovin’ her some prizes!

Yo-yo’s to remind us that we are always connected to Jesus. Even if we stray, we can come right back if we ask Jesus to help us…

Next, Mom sent the kids to the rock, a reminder that Jesus is our Rock. Here, they found water guns. The spiritual application? Basically, by this time everyone was so blistering hot that we needed to cool off. So fun to watch everyone in action!

As soon as we got to the rock, Lily opened her bag for me to put a prize in it. She had the routine down!

Cousin Matt gets pelted by one of his boys

Andrew was quite the super-soaker

Lily couldn’t decide whether to shoot her watergun or protect herself from the assaults of her cousins

Lucky for Lily, Aunt Larisa came to the rescue!

Cousin Tim gets in on the fun

Hot and tired, Lily and Judah wait for the next clue

Listening intently to Aunt Karen’s instructions

A water balloon toss was our next stop. Another great way to cool off…

Lily was a little confused as to the object of the game. She squeezed the balloons as hard as she could and finally threw them to the ground, trying to get them to burst. As soon as one would pop, she applauded herself and run back to the bucket for more. Guess she thought popping them was the goal. Regardless, it was hilarious to watch!

Johnny was quite the pitcher! He was serious about the challenge and did a great job.

Andrew’s big grin followed an extra-high water ballon toss

After finding fishy crackers and glow sticks, we headed inside for a craft. These stickers were the coolest! Such bright colors and minimal mess.

Judah’s masterpiece

Levi sporting his beautiful smile

The Birthday Girl and her Daddy

Aunt Karen got Hannah this beautiful dress for her birthday. It looked so fun on her! We snapped these photos to document her fantastic 10th birthday…

Happy Birthday, Hannah! Thanks to Matt, Larisa, Jesse, and Carrie for driving down here to see us. It was a blast! Love you and your families. And thanks, Mom, for the super fun day!

By Olivia | Also posted in Personal, Portrait | Comments (1)

Texas Trip: Part 1

May 31, 2010 – 9:48 pm

As a college student, I have begun to feel as though no place is truly home. I suppose our Georgia house feels the most like home, as walking into my bedroom after two weeks of traveling was still an extreme relief and comfort. But really, there are different things about each place I “live” that feel like home. Texas was my home for 19 years. The people and places that were familiar for so long will always be a part of me. Southern is the place that I live 2/3 of the year. Although the dorm is not that homey, it feels like home in a way due to the amount of time I spend there. Georgia is still new. The people are beginning to grow familiar, the places not so unusual, but since most of our time here I’ve been away at school, it is not completely like home. Yes, Georgia feels the most like home. Our back porch, my bed, and the kitchen all bring great joy and comfort to my heart. But the older I get, the more I realize that I will probably never feel truly at home anywhere until Heaven.

Now on to my most recent adventure! From Florida, where I was visiting my friend Sarah and her family (see posts below), I flew straight to Texas. We spent the first part of our vacation with our “family,” the Sexsons. I love waking up to the sight of three eager girls peeking into my bedroom, knowing that the snuggles and giggles that are soon to follow are priceless. Nothing beats lounging around the house in pjs with my girls, their Momma, my Mom, and Dave. When we finally got up and around on Wednesday, we headed to Saltgrass Steakhouse for baked potatoes and salad.

Mom and the girls woke David up with the help of this kind sock puppet

To Saltgrass we go

A normal picture and a silly photo with each of my girls

Two of my favorite guys

Even meal times are entertaining…

After devouring our baked potatoes and salad, which were fantastic, we could not resist ordering dessert. Saltgrass has some of the best desserts I’ve ever had. No joke. Here’s Kim’s reaction to one of the desserts the girls and I split.

The cause for her astonishment:

Mickynzie, Brenna, Shaylee, and I (plus anyone else that wanted some bites) split this sundae AND an incredible piece of cheesecake.

My affections were torn. Saltgrass has some of the best cheesecake I’ve ever had. Seriously. But I am, as anyone who reads this blog at all can tell, an ice cream addict. SO, I shared the sundae and the cheesecake with the three girls. Too much enjoyment for one day…

Once we were thoroughly stuffed, we headed to a Putt Putt place we used to go to when we were kids. It was a hot day, and everyone was dying to ride the Bumper Boats, so that’s precisely where we started. (There are tons of pictures. Got a little carried away… Kim just took too many fun ones!)

Since we wanted pictures, Kim sat out and played photographer. We had two tickets left over, however, so I volunteered to go out for a spin with her once everyone was done. Her famous last words: “I don’t want to get wet!” The following photograph was taken while I was still on her good side…

Our final adventure for the day involved braving the heat for a game of Putt Putt. We split into two groups and played a fun round of golf. Dave, John, Brenna, and Shay took the “Adventure Course,” while Mom, Kim, Kenzie, and I embarked on the “Harbour Course.” Fun, but oh so very hot!

Brenna was the overall winner. We won’t mention who came in last… :) Several stops were made on the way home, and many of us indulged in naps during the ride home. Shaylee was out within minutes. Brenna held on for a little while longer, but eventually dozed off. I couldn’t sleep good because I was holding Brenna’s head up, but snoozed a little while parked in the Target parking lot.

I guess being the overall champ wears a kid out…

When we got home, the two girls that had napped were pumped and ready to go. Ms. Karen introduced them to a new song, and they were eager to dance to it with her. Here are two blurry, action-packed shots of the four “Great Googa Mooga” dancers!

Shaylee slept a little too long and was a crazy dancer

The next morning, we relaxed at the house. While the we older girls chilled inside, Dave and the two energizer bunnies played outside. Doesn’t Dave look fantastic on a pink scooter?

I am so grateful that Mom and Kim have both prioritized staying in touch. These girls are what I miss most about Texas, and spending time with them was such a treat. Tune in soon for Part 2 of our visit to Texas…

By Olivia | Also posted in Personal, Portrait | Comments (2)

Texas: Monday

May 8, 2010 – 7:30 pm

When I woke up Monday morning, Shaylee was peeking at me from the top of the stairs (the bedroom I was in is open to the stairwell). She’d disappear and then peek at me again every few seconds. After smiling at her a few times, I motioned her to join me. She raced down the hall, bursting through the door, and jumped into bed beside me. Her cold toes warmed themselves on my warm legs while she giggled and squirmed. I don’t think there’s any better way to wake up. We began our day with a game of Old Maid (which I lost, I might add), and then took a break for time with Jesus. Breakfast and Farkle were next on our agenda. My Mom taught the girls to play Farkle, and it’s been a favorite ever since. Here are some pictures from our game:

Shaylee made good use of the scoreboard

I took a shower after a few games, and the girls headed outside to play. The patch of trees you see below is their “house.” “What do you girls play in there?” I asked them. “OId Grandma Friends,” Mickynzie replied. Kim has told us the girls love to pretend they are old grandma friends! How fun is that? The girls played in their house while I was getting ready. Shaylee came in to get something about the time I was ready, so she escorted me to “the house.” Gorgeous, isn’t it?

I hadn’t been out there for more than 5 minutes when Mickynzie and Brenna scampered up to me with these bouquets. Isn’t the variety breathtaking?

Shaylee was not to be outdone and ran to find these for me

Mickynzie finished giving me a tour of the house while Brenna and Shaylee cooked our food

Are you brave enough to look at what they made for us?

These wildflowers fill the pastures surrounding their house (real one this time). So. Pretty.

I wouldn’t trade David for anything, but I sure wish I had experienced sisters, too. Such a beautiful bond!

Indian Blankets are one of my favorite flowers. If they weren’t wild and unpredictable, I’d have them in my wedding bouquet someday. I just love their vibrant color. Fields full of them are so invigorating!

The girls’ neighbors have the neatest tiny cabin. The Peacocks have let me do photoshoots by the cabin on several occasions. It is a fantastic shoot spot! We were nearing their property while taking pictures in the flowers, when the girls suddenly remembered something. “Have you seen what’s in the outhouse?” they asked me with sly grins on their faces. “No, last time I looked in there it was empty,” I answered. “Come see!” they exclaimed before dashing across the yard ahead of me. Kenzie and I followed at a slower pace, and Brenna and Shay were waiting with anticipation, hands on the door, wide smiles on their faces. “You might want to have your camera ready,” Mickynzie told me. I guess I was expecting some sort of animal or something, but I was startled when I opened the door and saw…

Isn’t that hilarious? The girls got a huge kick out of my reaction. Love my beauties!

The creek is GORGEOUS this time of year. Bubbly, flowing water creates such a peaceful environment.

Buttons did not want to miss out on the fun…

Who can create the biggest moss ball? Brenna shows hers off…

Shaylee, exhausted from our wild adventures, summons the strength to scale the stairs

Miss Karen showed up in time for lunch. After we ate a yummy meal, we trekked outside for some pictures. While we waited for everyone to get ready, Mom snapped these of me.

Love these girls!

Miss Karen is a favorite with these three… It’s easy to see why.

Kim has been an inspiration and best friend to me over the past 5 years. We are truly like family. Over the past few years, I have noticed such beautiful changes in their family. They’ve always been precious people, but the closer they grow to Jesus, the more they sparkle. Kim and Denny provide such a wonderful home for their girls. Watching Kim homeschool and raise her children gives me a glimpse of what I hope to have in my own home one day. Sure, no one’s perfect, but I truly see Jesus when I watch this family. They are beautiful inside and out. Keep up the good work, Kim!

Mom and Kim were not fond of the wrinkles in their necks, so they tried this for a solution.

Two of my favorite women in the whole world. Seriously.

I hope I am half this lovely at 51…

As we were finishing, Kim asked me to snap a few photos of her. I was shocked to discover I’ve never taken any pictures of just her. Out of the thousands of pictures I’ve taken of her children, she has never been in front of my camera by herself. I was honored to take these. She is beautiful. Truly gorgeous.

I love you, Sexson family! Thanks for the fun memories!

Mom and I headed back to Bowyer’s that afternoon, and we all (except Dad who flew home that morning) ended up at Joe’s Pizza and Pasta for dinner. No complaints by me! I miss that place. MJ and Denny joined us, making the evening more special. The rest of our night was spent visiting and relaxing in the hot tub. It was a great way to wrap up the trip. Early the next morning, we loaded into the truck and began our long drive home. The weekend was more fun and rewarding than I had dreamed it would be. I cannot believe how many wonderful people–Texans, Georgians, and Tennessee folks–God has put into my life. I am so blessed. The food, fellowship, and rejuvenation time was much needed and appreciated. I look forward to visiting again. In the meantime, more summer adventures…

By Olivia | Also posted in Personal, Portrait | Comments (1)

Texas: Sunday

May 7, 2010 – 1:56 pm

Sunday morning we were up and about bright and early. Our longtime friends, the Weavers, prepared a scrumptious meal for us to enjoy. It was incredible. Angela is such a wonderful cook. We had waffles with homemade cinnamon syrup (terrible for you, but oh so tasty!), strawberries and whipped cream, veggie meat, and homemade cheesy grits casserole (so yummy!!). After breakfast, the boys went to look at cars, Taylor wasn’t feeling great so she laid down, and Mom, Ang, and I spent the morning chatting about homeschool and life.

Proof of an excellent chef

My brother, a ham? Nah!

Early afternoon found me too exhausted to do much. So while Mom went shopping, I stayed at Bowyer’s and took a nap. I felt so much better when I woke up! That evening, Mom, Dad, and I (Dave was at CTA Talent Show) met Dale, Julie, and Sexsons at La Fiesta for dinner. Can you say fun?

Could this possibly be the reason for Shaylee’s above pouty face? Disgusting!

Kim told Brenna to take the lime out of her mouth for the picture. She took a bite as she pulled it out, and the picture on the right shows her reaction…

The girls got their own dessert and carried it back to the table. Precious picture…

One of the things we miss about Texas is BRAUMS! Dad, Mom, and I love their yogurt twisty cones with a passion. So light, creamy, and fantastic! Kim shares our passion. After stuffing ourselves at La Fiesta, we had to make a Braum’s run. Big mistake since we were already so full, but the ice cream was marvelous.

Kim torturing her girls with the ice cream they couldn’t have. The girls had already eaten pudding dessert at La Fiesta, and then we decided on our Braum’s stop. Because of this, Kim told them no ice cream. They begged, pleaded, and pouted, but, believe it or not, they survived!

I left Braum’s with the Sexson’s and spent the night with them. What a treat! We played for a little while before the girls went to bed, then Kim, Denny, and I stayed up and visited. The next day we had a blast, but those pictures are coming tomorrow night… Yay for a friend-filled Sunday!

By Olivia | Also posted in Personal, Portrait | Comments (2)

Texas: Sabbath

May 6, 2010 – 12:23 pm

Sabbath is always a special day, no matter where we are. Spending it in Texas with precious childhood friends is just the icing on the cake. Dave went to Keene church with his friends, Dad had another place to be, and Mom and I went back to my home church of 19 years, Burleson SDA. What a treat to see everyone and be back in that sanctuary. It’s amazing how God works, though. About half way through the service I leaned over to whisper in Mom’s ear. “It’s strange. I never though Calhoun church would feel like home, but it feels so strange to not be sitting there with our entire ‘family,’ –-Dad, Dave, You, Me, Justin, and Sarah. I miss it.” Yes, God is exceedingly good.

After church, we all headed over to Uncle Dale’s house for lunch. Delicious! It was so much fun to catch up with Dale, Julie, Ryan, Lauren, Ryan’s girlfriend Marlise, and some of our favorite cousins, John and Emily.

Lunch tends to make people sleepy. Several of us indulged in naps…

Others of us watched those who were napping

Good Company = Good Conversation

I, too, indulged in a little nap. It was blissful. Just as I was starting to wake up, three adorable little bodies bounded over and onto the bed I was sleeping on. I love my fun girls! The following pictures are blurry because the room was dark and Mom couldn’t hold still enough, but I love them nonetheless. They capture the precious joy that fills my life when I’m with the Sexson girls.

Fun pictures of Ryan and Marlise

Our guys love music. We all do, but the real talent and dedication is evident in these three. So of course they spent some time goofing around with their instruments…

Inside looking out

The day was GORGEOUS and before long we all made our way outside to enjoy it.

I realized after putting these two photos together that they look like one. Whoops! Emily is not really a giant and John is not tiny, these are two pictures taken at different distances.

David is SO good with the girls. He adores them and they adore him.

You should see these two together! They are hysterical! Yay for cousinhood!

The girls couldn’t resist putting their feet into the inviting water.

Before long, dangling feet in the water was not enough. These two gave in to the temptation to splash around for awhile.

Em and I put our feet in the water after awhile, unable to resist the warm hottub water

John and Dave took things a step further…

Kim snapped the next two photos for me. Two of my favorite activities: snuggling with my angels and singing. Ryan is a fantastic piano player and has a beautiful voice. Every time we visit I beg him to play and sing with me. “Hosanna” is one of my favorites. I love the way he plays it! And of course add a Shaylee snuggle to that and it’s all good.

That evening, we stopped by my Uncle Allen and Auntie Loselie’s house to see the changes they’ve recently made on their home. My Dad’s other brother, Tom, and his wife, Laura were visiting for the weekend. Their daughters, Alex and Audrey, and Alex’s husband, Larry, were there, too. MJ and Denny came joined us, which only added to the fun. We visited for a while before heading back to Bowyer’s house to welcome Jackie and Justin home. She had flown up to Southern the day before to help Justin drive home. We spent the evening talking with them and enjoying the hot tub. Fun stuff!

Our Texas Sabbath was wonderful. We are so blessed!

By Olivia | Also posted in Personal, Portrait | Comments (0)