The Rebelution Tour Final Stop - Maryland

I had the privilege of attending the last stop of the Harris brother's Rebelution Tour in Gaithersburg, Maryland. It was at Covenant Life Church, which was a great facility because it seats 2800 people. Turns out we had a few more attendees than that show up. By God's grace, numerous teens and adults alike gave their lives to the Lord. It was an amazing conference to be a part of. I have some pics to share, though these are by no means extensive.

I just want to thank Alex and Brett; for your humility, passion for your message, and eagerness to honor the Lord and your parents. I was particularly challenged by that. Though I was serving, I took away so much from the messages and look to apply them now. I'm changing something.

I would also like to thank Mr. and Mrs. Harris; for your dedication to the Lord, your perseverance in raising your children, and your desire to serve the Lord in whatever capacity.

That being said, here are some pics from our day. PS They're NOT in chronological order! Sorry.

Doris Marie Wilson Butt: August 26th, 1933 - July 10th, 2008

As a family, for as long as I can remember, we have gone to Fairfield, North Carolina to spend Thanksgiving with my Dad's family. We drive down 64/264 until we hit the water and then turn left at the only light in the county. We'd always park in Uncle Floyd's yard, but after unloading our luggage into the house, we'd go see Grandma. We'd hug and then sit on her couch while she'd offer us food, drink or knitting/crocheting tools and supplies. We'd then knit or crochet until dinner when we all waked over to Uncle Floyd's for spaghetti. (Aunt Bobby cooks THE BEST spaghetti in the world.) Next day we'll help set up the tent in the back yard for the pigpickin'. We always watched "Hook" while there for Thanksgiving. Don't know why.

I have random snips of memories at Grandma's house. Baking sough dough bread with her and she put her rings on her glasses. Anticipating the chicken andnoo noos that were cooking on the stove. Taking naps and when we'd move around, she'd just put her hand on our feet and we knew better than to move. Learning to crochet and knit. Learning songs like "My Mommy Told Me Something" and "In the Boarding House" and singing them around the piano until we were out of breath. Trying to learn to play the piano. On Sunday morning, we'd go to Grandma's room she'd let us pick a perfume - only one, mind you - that we got to wear. Grandma calling me "dear heart." Learning how to correctly wrap presents at the kitchen table. These are memories that I will always hold dear.

My Dad's mother had cancer just after my Dad was born and has been suffering with it again for the last two years. She has been deteriorating for a long while. Last weekend, Dad, Ash, Mike, David, and I went down to see Grandma for what we assumed was the last time we'd see her on this side of Heaven. I am sad to say that I was rather reluctant to go. I knew it might be the last time, but I didn't want to remember her like that. She doesn't do much any more; She pretty much just its and then moves to another chair. She hasn't done any of the things she loves in awhile. Well, I'm really glad I went. It was the last time I saw her on this earth, but not the last time I'll see her.

On Thursday morning Mom woke me up with the news that Grandma had gone to be with the Lord. While I was/am sad, I cannot help but think of her new life. During her funeral I got this picture of Grandma playing piano with Christ. Now in a glorified body that has no more pain and troubles, she is baking away for the wedding feast, singing with the Christians who have gone before her. Spending time in the presence of her Creator and Savior. I miss her, but I almost don't feel like she's gone. It's like she just moved away and I'll see her soon, since we'll be moving there too. I hope everyone understands what we have to look forward to in Heaven. If spending eternity with the Lord isn't enough, we get to create, to sing with those who have gone before. I am so excited for the day when I get to meet Peter, Mary, Paul, not to mention the sibling who I never got to meet. Most of all, I cannot wait to stand before my Righteous Lord and have Himdeclare me as one of His own. What a glorious day. I pray you all hope for Heaven as I do.

When Tears Are in Your Heart
- by Doris Butt

When tears are in your heart,
and you cannot understand
why some tragedy befell you
just take Jesus by the hand.

He will help you to accept it
tho He may not tell you why
He has allowed this thing to happen
that brings teardrops to your eye.

So put your trust in Jesus.
Keep your eyes upon His face.
He'll help you through your trouble,
and He'll save you by His grace.

Live in light of eternity.

(Here are some pictures from the weekend. The funeral, lunch hosted by the church, and then a compilation of images of Grandma over the years.)

Father's Day

Yesterday was a day set aside to honor fathers. I was unable to post that day because I spent all the time I could with my dad before he left town for two weeks.

I am not sure that I have ever told my dad this, but I respect him so much for doing all he does to support us (and seeing as how there are nine people in our house, it's no easy task) without fail. He has to be at his job way before anyone should even be up and works until after hours. I am so inspired by his relentless devotion and perseverance in order to support us.

These are a couple images from the last two/three years and show some of my dad's favorite things. :) My dad and his dog, Bella, who died late last year. Man, my dad loved that dog. He would bring home long pieces of knotted rope, all excited, and would call Bella. She would freak out and would lock her jaws around the rope. My dad would then swing the rope around in a circle, three feet from the ground. Bella never let go. This made my father's day, everytime.



This is what I wake up to every once and a while... I bet no one else's father does this with football pads! :)

My mother and father after twenty-three years... aww.!

And finally, the only two men currently in my life: Dad and Dude. I love you two!Dad, thank you. I am so blessed that you are my father. I can't wait to see you again! I love you so much. :)

Wedding: Corey & Elizabeth

I've known Elizabeth for, like, ever. We went to the same church for as far back as I can remember, until we went church "shopping." Coincidentally, we were enrolled in the same home school writing class year before last where we were reunited. After the classes ended, we tried to keep in touch and saw each other occasionally. Then I got the email. Elizabeth got herself engaged! You might remember my post of their engagement session... Well, turns out I had the honor of capturing a good friend's wedding. And what an amazing couple. Since they're young and so close to my age, I felt really free to do fun stuff - still being professional, but also enjoying the union of my friends. Their love for one another and their passion to keep God central in their lives was completely evident throughout the entire day.

It was one of Libby's dreams to get married at the beach. This completely thrilled me, seeing as how I'd never shot a beach wedding prior. It did prove a challenge, but I believe we rose to the occasion. After hours of not-so-normal getting ready, there was a lovely ceremony on a private beach, with the reception at a church owned by someone in the bride's family. (Uncle I believe.) All around a lovely day. Corey and his bride were gracious enough to hike about a bit with me to get some fun shots... thanks guys!

When Libby and I were talking about her engagement, she informed me that together, the two of them had decided not to kiss until the day they were wed. After months of waiting, Corey and Libby kissed for the first time, at the alter, as man and wife. Though they waited, faithfully, after that first one, they started making up for 'lost' time. It definitely made me smile every time we went to take a picture and I would say "Ok, Corey, give her a kiss," and we would have to wait until Mom said "Come up for air you two!" It was such a blessing and a testimony to see them complete their commitment to one another and then find it was worth the wait.

Corey and Libby, I wish you both all the happiness in the world. May you always keep God as the foundation on which your relationship stands. Love you both and so happy for you!Photobucket" border="0">

I am so glad I was able to be a part of your big day... thank you for sharing it with me!