like the old days

This May will mark 10 years since I graduated from high school. 10 years, that's hard for me to wrap my brain around. I'm starting to feel very old and was reminded of my age yesterday.

When I was in high school, I spent many weekends baby-sitting for Coach Willis and Lisa. Landon and Mary Brooke were very young, and Annie did not come along until my senior year. I remember playing basketball with Landon in his upstairs bedroom on almost every occasion. He always wanted to be Luke, my brother and someone he admired, and I was the rest of the Panther team. Well, it's crazy that those little kids have grown up and now play on the varsity team for Mars Hill. Both the Lady Panthers and Panthers played in the finals of the Northwest Regional Tournament yesterday.

I decided to join my dad and Luke for the games. It was so much fun to watch the Panther basketball history continue to get richer. My heart broke for the girls in their loss but was filled with excitement over the boys' victory, in which many thought was impossible. It was exciting to watch Landon and Mary Brooke play, and I admired the hard work of both teams. I guess some things never change.

It's great to be a Mars Hill Panther.

let's talk about adam...

Happy Birthday to my oldest brother, Adam!! Just like this picture, he has always been right by my side. Like the time, I went to Lipscomb and had a hard time adjusting. He made a special trip to Nashville to spend some time with me. During this trip, he introduced me to several of his friends who looked after me the entire year. Or the time, I interned with him for two summers. It was a blessing to be able to work in ministry with him and following his example. Those were two of the best summers of my life, and he was right there with me. Thanks for sticking up for me and for protecting me. You are an amazing brother! Thanks for your constant support and thoughtful actions. I love you!!

verse for the day

On Wednesday nights, I'm part of a wonderful Bible study with some amazing women. We are studying the book of James using Beth Moore's Mercy Triumphs. Every time I spend time in the study or watching the video, I feel the Lord speaking directly to me. It's been very uplifting, especially during a rough time. Last night, we watched a video, which moved me to tears. Our God is an AWESOME God who knows exactly what we need and uses people, His word, and various other things to provide comfort, peace, strength, and healing. Thank you Lord!

Very truly I tell you, you will weep and mourn while the world rejoices. You will grieve, BUT your grief will turn to joy. John 16:20

meet my new friend

Isn't she precious?

On Tuesday, my dear friend, Melissa, gave birth to this bundle of joy! I couldn't wait to meet her, to hold her, and to snuggle, so Craig and I made a quick trip to Florence. Melissa and I have been friends since Kindergarten. She took me under her wing and watched out for me. I was scared about school, and she was brave enough for the both of us. From that day on, we could not be separated. She has always looked out for our group of friends and has played the role of our Mother Hen for years. I know she's going to be an amazing Mommy to Molly. Molly, you are a lucky girl, and you are blessed with wonderful parents. Congrats Melissa and Eric! I am so happy for your little family. She's beautiful, and I can't wait to watch her grow.

beautiful baby girl

Two of my other dear friends also gave birth to baby girls in January. Congrats to Mary Brook and Graig on the birth of Maggie and Meaghan and Brandon on the birth of Madelyn. I can't wait to meet these little girls!