Gifts 16-17

16. Being able to spend the weekend in Pigeon Forge with my mom. This was the first time since before I had kids that I have gone away for the weekend with just my mom. We had a great time! Mom was teaching at a women's retreat and I went with her to drive and keep her company :-). We had a wonderful time of sweet fellowship with each other and with the other ladies, relaxation, eating out, and shopping. My mom defintitely spoiled me. I felt refreshed both spiritually and physically. But, despite the great time, I really, really missed my family! Saturday afternoon, while in the hotel, I was able to watch a little bit of the Georgia/LSU game. While watching it, I was imagining Billy and Hannah cheering on the dawgs, Kristen hanging out and sort of watching the game and being on the computer, and Will coming in and out watching the game for a little bit and then going off to play some more. It was a nice feeling and a good reminder --that is where I belong -- right at home with my sweet family. So, thanks mom for a great trip and to my family for letting me go and being able to carry on with me gone. I am glad to be home!















17. My parents. I feel so blessed to have parents who are still married. They celebrated their 4oth wedding anniversary this year. I am very thankful for each of them inividually, but I am also thankful that they are still together after all of these years. I love that I can go visit them together and that we can sit and drink coffee and enjoy being together. They are a great example and testimony to me and to others of committment in a marriage even when it wasn't easy. They have also taught me to stand for what I believe even when it wasn't popular or easy to do so. I am so thankful for all of the help and support that they have given to me and Billy over the years. Thanks mom and dad!!