Family time on the Blue Ridge Parkway

I have said it before, but, I say it again - I have been blessed. Today, I spent the good part of the afternoon with Al and the O Show on the beautiful Blue Ridge Parkway. It was an amazing day filled with laughter, good food, great scenery, and good photos (Thanks to Val!)

God's beautiful creation never ceases to amaze me, and today was just outstanding. What a great day! Thank you Lord for the many blessings you have placed in my life!

Here are some photos of the day - I hope you enjoy!

To Miele` or Not....

So, those of you who know me, know that I am an appliance snob....can't help it! I like a nice kitchen, I want it to be functional and practical and I want it to WORK! (ok, looking good helps!).

When we built our second house, I found the German appliance maker, Miele....LOVE it! I bought a dishwasher (THE quietest on the market), a gas cook top and a coffee system (not maker, mind you). Great appliances - and fulfills all the needs of the kitchen. I'll admit they are a little pricey, but I have no problem paying for quality IF it works and lasts forever.

When we moved to NC, I opted for the same appliances - all is great thus far, working on year 3. However, I have now become so accustomed to them, I am pining for a Miele vacuum cleaner...

I have done more research on vacuums than anyone else, except probably the Rainbow sales rep. I am having a hard time choking down the fee it costs to clean my floors; at these prices, the thing should come with a robot to push it around the house.

I'm working a few extra hours this week to begin the vacuum fund; which is kind of slow going, since I only work one day a week! At this rate, the dust, dander, and goodness knows what else will be multiplying on my floors before the thing ever makes it to my doorstep.

My friend, C.J., thinks I'm crazy to spend this kind of money on stuff...and, he's probably right. But, I'm hoping I never have to buy them again. Of course, it doesn't help that he is friend's with Al and they are making fun of me together. I'm using the angle that the BABY needs a clean environment (lol); he's not telling me no, but he is definitely rolling his eyes. This is why I love him - he just lets me do my thing and loves me anyway. Besides, I don't hear Al complaining about his coffee system!

Hmmmmm......little does he know that the Miele washer and dryer are next on my list!! Poor guy.

In His Grip,
Kandi

The O Show had a Show!

Sunday, October 4, The O Show was baptized. Technically, I look at is as a christening/dedication, because I believe she needs to make that choice on her own. But.....the Methodists call it a baptism. It's all semantics to me.

I believe we were all coming together as the Body of Christ to commit to raising her in God's ways.

Family travelled far to attend this momentous occasion for us. To the left is Granny Newkirk, Al and the O Show after the blessed event. Granny travelled from Monroe, Louisiana. Al's sister Debra, her husband, Dwight, and our niece, Alyson travelled from Knoxville, Tennessee.

Melanie, my youngest sister, travelled from Pensacola. Here she is feeding the O Show some sweet potatoes.

My older sister, Stacie, and her husband, Harry, travelled from Las Vegas, Nevada. Here they are at the airport...

Mom and Dad travelled from Pensacola, Florida as well. No pictures - they refuse!! :(

O's Godfather, Tom, also travelled from Pensacola - we were so thankful he made the trip. He and O developed a great bond; although I'm a bit nervous about their relationship. He is threatening to teach her things, that perhaps, in error, I have taught his daughter!! You know, shopping, make-up, handbags, shoes, and the list goes on!!

It was a wonderful time, and I'm so thankful to everyone who travelled. We hosted a small reception at our home for our friends and family. We were so honored to have so many people show their support. We appreciate all of these people who have been a support system to us. We are so blessed to have friends who will be there for us while the O is growing up!

God is so good! Check out her formal pictures at http://www.christinemasonphotography.com/

In His Grip,

Kandi

Where have I been?

Oh my!! I haven't blogged in two weeks!! I have been busy, busy! I will tell you about my week another day. Right now, I have to share what I've learned from my Bible lesson today....

I suffer from a small amount of anxiety - my brain goes 90 to nothing. I can think of the most bizarre scenarios - frightening, scary, funny, weird....you name it. I have learned that satan is the author of this confusion, and I, with the Lord's help, can call him out and cast him down.

So, with the arrival of the O Show, my anxiety levels have gone up a little. Things as simple as help me make sure I dress her warm enough to more complicated issues like kidnapping, losing her, accidents, etc. have crossed my mind more times than I care to share. I am learning to pray the following daily: "Lord, help me not to live in fear of possible dangers, but help me to live in the joy and peace of knowing you are in control."

Tonight, I read Matthew 18- Christ is telling the disciples how precious children are to Him - how He cherishes them, and then in verse 10, the most precious words I have heard now come to life for me...."their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father in heaven." My baby has an angel in heaven that is constantly in the presence of the King!! This is almost liberating for me! She is precious to the King of Kings, to the Almighty, our Father! I am going to write these words on my heart - satan can't get a foothold any longer!

In His Grip,

Kandi