The Sweet Life

Decade over! High School!?!? What?

2009-08-09T17:20:00.003-05:00

It's been a busy summer and not much time for blogging, but I am a little emotional today. I can't believe that my "baby" has been on this earth for a DECADE today! And tomorrow (to help with my emotional instability), I will have TWO of my precious children in HIGH school! Where has time gone? So, in their honor--here are a few pictures of how they've grown!

Brett's 1st year coaching Luke's soccer team.

Katie and Hannah being silly! Love those smiles!

And last...the decade old boy--Luke (with his best bud, Phillip!)

Memorial Day

2009-05-25T08:59:00.004-05:00

I read this in an e-mail this morning and thought I'd share it on here. The older I get, the more I respect and appreciate all those that have served our country! Thank you Daddy and Gene, Sr. for your time given for our nation.

It is the
VETERAN,
not the preacher,
who has given us freedom of religion.

It is
the VETERAN,
not the reporter,
who has given us freedom of the press.

It is
the VETERAN,
not the poet,
who has given us freedom of speech.

It is
the VETERAN,
not the campus organizer,
who has given us freedom to assemble.

It is
the VETERAN,
not the lawyer,
who has given us the right to a fair trial.

It is
the VETERAN,
not the politician,
Who has given us the right to vote.

It is the
VETERAN who
salutes the Flag,

It is
the
VETERAN
who serves
under the Flag,

ETERNAL
REST GRANT THEM O LORD, AND LET PERPETUAL LIGHT SHINE UPON
THEM.

God
Bless them all!! Makes you proud to be an American

What a "loverly" morning!

2009-01-17T12:47:00.002-05:00

Have you ever just had a day that you needed to re-connect with family?? This was the morning for us. It seems like life is so busy lately that we have not even had a moment to catch up with everyone. So this morning...homemade "IHOP" pancakes were on the griddle with the bacon frying and coffee brewing. We sat down to the table with the aromas filling the house and had great conversation with four maturing children! It seems like they have just grown up overnight. I am sure that we were warned about this moment from those older than us--we listened, but not truly, because this has hit us by surprise it seems. What a joy that the Lord has given us this opportunity to parent all four of these blessings! It is easy at times to loose sight of all it, though. Gene and I have had the Lord speaking to us in recent days about...are you really seeking first HIS kingdom??? Are we? Are you? I would have to say that this morning, we did! No worrying about the laundry that is behind, the groceries that need to be bought, the cleaning to get caught up on or the other busy-ness that we can get caught up in. Life is really simple--love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul and mind. Applying that is not so simple. I think today that the Lord enjoyed our pancakes, bacon and coffee (and most importantly, our conversation) and was pleased. Thank you, Lord, for the simple things that remind us to return to You!

Luke playing handbells

2009-01-03T17:08:00.003-05:00

Well, here he is...Luke playing handbells! I can't believe he is the last one in the family to have the honor of playing the handbells at our annual Christmas music at church. He was really very excited about this, though it may be hard to tell in the pictures :0)

Friday after Thanksgiving traditions

2008-12-29T21:35:00.005-05:00

Before I begin, let me apologize for being so far behind in my blogging. I feel like a traitor since any spare time I have, I tend to be "nosey" and check up on everyone on Facebook. I'll try to catch this blog up during the next couple of weeks.

On the Friday after Thanksgiving, we always put our Christmas tree up. That night we have cheese ball with crackers, special sausage from Hickory Farms, some chocolate covered "whatever" that we've made and homemade punch. While eating, we put on the ornaments, eat some more, decorate, eat some more, decorate, eat some more...think you get the picture!

These are some of our favorite ornaments because a special lady at our church, Emily Bolt, made these for us. Each year, we anticipate her creative, personalized ornaments. She certainly has a gift that I would love to have!! Maybe one day, she will teach me and the girls how to do these.

Thanksgiving Day

2008-11-29T11:24:00.002-05:00

Paula was kind enough to spend most of her afternoon shooting family pictures for us. You'll soon see on our Christmas card what a great job she did!

The Bat Burger

2008-11-17T20:30:00.002-05:00

A few random bites of a burger resulted in the "Bat Signal" roaming through our home. I'm sure you can guess who was eating it...you guessed it...LUKE! (of course, Katie was the one to think of actually taking a picture of it--those two are always up to something!).

Like the World

2008-11-05T08:13:00.006-05:00

I emailed a friend back this morning in response to the election last night and decided that I would share my struggles with any of you that care to read them today. I am sure there are many struggling today--but our hope is in OUR King--the King of Kings!!

No, we didn't stay up. We watched until about 9:45 and I thought my time would better be used sleeping so that I would be able to get up and have a quiet time. Little did I know how easy it is to get up and have a quiet time when you desperately NEED the Lord!! I am sure that my priorities will be much clearer for the next four years.

I flipped the TV on just to make sure that he became president because I kept dreaming that the networks kept coming back on saying,"we were wrong again, another state has been taken from Obama and awarded to McCain". it seemed so real, but I knew in my heart when I awoke that would not be the truth. Anyway, I saw where he and his wife and kids walked out on that enormous stage (not sure where Biden was). I turned the TV off and just began to sob. Sob not because he won, but because of how many Christians had to have voted for him in order for him to win--they HAD to!! It breaks my heart that people can not see how vile he is in his stand on abortion!! How on earth does God put up with us!?!? Anyway, as I sat there Micah 6:8 came to mind about what God requires: to act justly, love mercy and walk HUMBLY with Him. So I turned there and began reading Micah 6 and 7--wow! God's judgment on the nation of Israel for turning to pagan gods and idol worship!! He said that His judgment has come and they will be destroyed, BUT the remnant will remain and He will bless them and they will come through. We talked about it at breakfast this morning how Christians are watching the same movies as the world, listening to the same music, dressing immodestly like the world, having sex outside of marriage-like the world, divorcing-like the world,cussing-like the world, taking His name in vain on a daily basis-like the world, doing things THEIR way- like the world and not the Lord's--how COULD He leave us going down this road?? Where is the holiness of His people? Because He loves us--He HAS to discipline us, not as a nation, but as believers that call Him Lord, supposedly. May He grant us strength to endure these difficult days ahead that we may be found faithful, bold, and not lose faith!! Be found stronger because we know that our faith will be tested.

Well enough rambling for today. Go to someone else's blog--I'm sure it will have the same topic today. I need to remember Jesus said we are to be IN the world, but not OF the world.

Always learnin' somethin'

2008-10-29T07:56:00.001-05:00

I had a Continuing Ed class all day yesterday and learned a new saying that might challenge you as much as it did me:

Change the way you look at things and the things you look at will change!

Not that brilliant, I know. But challenging...it is.

One more plea

2008-10-27T15:06:00.008-05:00

Ok, if you read my last entry, I said I would stop preaching today. But...I was sitting in the car waiting for Luke to get out of co-op and heard Focus on the Family broadcast for today. Amazing facts were being disclosed about Barack Obama's political history and support of abortion and beyond. I know that there are many young people planning to vote for this man, but my question is "Aren't you glad your mother did not believe in abortion?"

Here is the link if you would like to read the article yourself. It is quite lengthy, but such good information:

http://www.citizenlink.org/dailybroadcast/A000008504.cfm

Unfortunately, you'll have to copy and paste this if you care to read it. Blogger won't let me add it as a link--that's the kind of Monday I'm havin' I guess.

Another Civil War?

2008-10-27T07:29:00.003-05:00

We watched Sarah Palin on TV. Wish we could have seen her in person. My sister got to be there, so I can't wait to see her pictures soon. She said that she could tell that she was surrounded by people that believe in life and support Christian values. I believe Christian values are playing a VERY big role in this election--so much so--that I believe that is is not so much about republicans vs. democrats as it is those who love the Lord and those who despise Him. Quite a spiritual "civil war" going on--wonder how it will divide the country next Tuesday???By the way, sanctity of life is not just about the unborn and handicapped--it is also about the elderly and valuing them until their last day and considering their wisdom a gift, not considering them a burden on society. Gene and I met with a gentleman last night about some long-term health care insurance--nursing home and assisted living, etc. We're not planning to buy it, but it made me think about all those folks in those places desiring to be loved, cared for and valued! How sad to think that you spent your whole life loving and nurturing other people just so that in the end they can be left like that. I am sick of people saying that this is a racial issue for this election. It isn't a racial issue--it's a LIFE or death issue. There are many black men that I would vote for if they were running for president--J.C. Watts, Alan Keyes, etc--but unfortunately, McCain and Obama are our choices and I choose life!! Sorry for the preaching today, I just plead with you all to get out and vote next Tuesday. Choose life that you may live.

One more thing, then I'll be quite for the day:
Don't believe the polls or the media!!
Psalm 20:7 says: "Some trust in chariots and some in horses,
but we trust in the name of the Lord our God!"
Plead with God to show mercy (undeserved favor) to our nation. And trust Him with the results. I know that He is the Sovereign One and will still be The One in control regardless of whom He allows in the White House.

Fall for Greenville

2008-10-16T15:53:00.000-05:00

Anyone lost a Copperhead??

2008-10-13T07:43:00.003-05:00

If you did, we found it--but you might not want it back since he is a little "torn up" about things.
While I was picking Brett up from work Friday night, Gene had the joy of mowing the lawn. Mowing through the backyard, he saw something moving quickly toward our old garden area. Just as he suspected--a snake!! It was getting pretty dark by then, so he could not identify it until Saturday morning--a Copperhead!! He looks pretty small in these pictures, but we learned that babies are worse than the adult because they don't know how to use their venom yet, so they use too much! A man at our church was bitten by a copperhead a few weeks ago and was rushed to the hospital and it doing fine now-PTL!
Just thought all of you out there in blogworld might want to check out the little guy...

Great Day of Service

2008-10-08T09:10:00.003-05:00

Our church has a day each Fall where we go out and serve our community. It is our family's favorite day in the church year! As many of you know, we are now home schooling Luke (due to several circumstances) and as his assignment today, he had to write a paper about his experience on Great Day of Service. I thought some of you might enjoy reading it.

Great Day of Service

Every year, our church gathers to go to different places to help others in our Great Day of Service. This year’s was on Saturday, October 4, 2008. Our group went to help the Ronald McDonald house in Greenville, SC near the hospital. The Ronald McDonald house is for people that have children in the hospital and can not afford a hotel to stay in.
The week before we went, I spent my time making cards for the people in the Ronald McDonald House. I drew Fred and Wilma Flintstone, Popeye, Odie, Lightening McQueen, and Scooby Doo on the front of my cards. I thought the cartoons would be cool and funny to cheer the kids up. On the inside, I wrote a Bible verse to tell them about Jesus and how much He loved them.

That Saturday, our job was to help at the house in whatever way they needed. We served the families breakfast. We served them eggs, biscuits, sausage, bacon, granola bars, homemade cinnamon rolls, muffins, egg casserole and fruit along with fresh orange juice and coffee. It looked tasty. After breakfast, we went outside to do yard work. We pulled weeds, picked up trash, cleaned up brush around the dumpster. We washed the fences. It looked really nice when we were finished. I had a good time and I can’t wait until next year’s Great Day of Service.

There are many people hurting out there. It is good to do things like this to help us keep our own lives in perspective.

Congratulations Amanda!!

2008-09-29T06:08:00.002-05:00

Amanda, we are SO proud of you!!

Amanda got accepted to Western Carolina University last week! She will begin in January. I can't believe that she is old enough to be going off to college--boy! does time fly! It seems just like yesterday that Gene and I were pulling her around in her little red wagon while she kept saying "u-duh, u-duh"!! Great memories! Maybe I'll have to check around in a little while and see if I can find that picture.
Way to go Amanda! We love you!

and it's not even Christmas yet

2008-09-17T06:32:00.005-05:00

With all the uncertainties of life today--gas prices, election, stock market, economy in general--it can get a little unsettling. This morning when I was having my quiet time, the Lord brought me a scripture that we usually hear at Christmas but I found more fitting today:

Isaiah 9:6 - "For unto us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."

What a relief to know that He is all we need, our lives are not dependent on Barack Obama or Sarah Palin or any other official. HE is our counselor and protector. I was looking at my sister's blog this morning at all the "bird" pictures she had taken at the fair and reminded of the scripture in

Matthew 23:37 - "O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing.

The Lord l-o-n-g-s to protect us and yet we continue to refuse His help and do it our way. We take on our worries and try to figure them out ourselves. The Isaiah scripture reminds me that He is the Mighty One and He is my Everlasting "Daddy," why would I try to take on all of this? Quite honestly, being nestled under a large, protective, feathery wing sounds very peaceful at this moment. Don't you think you?

Luke's Dream car...

2008-09-08T12:23:00.003-05:00

Luke's dream is finally started...Gene and Luke are beginning to build a downhill racer car. Luke is so excited! My dad gave Luke a book that was my grandfathers' with the design in it, so Gene took Luke a few weeks ago and bought all the supplies. They were able to borrow some tools from one of our friends, Mr. Wayne (substitute grand-dad) and began the project before the football games. Luke was sick this past weekend, so it may take a few weeks to get this project completed. Keep watch for updates on this great project.

It must be football time!

2008-09-08T12:18:00.003-05:00

This is what my den looked like last Saturday as college football seasoned kicked-off. Brett had to work--just like every other Saturday this summer. So Gene and Luke were left to watch football together. They look a little intense as they shove their lunch in without even taking their eyes off the TV (and Tennessee wasn't even playing!).

Last Sounds of Summer

2008-09-06T12:48:00.002-05:00

When you think of summer, what are some sounds or smells that can take you right back to your childhood? I am a person that loves sounds and smells--they transport me to some great (and some bad) times. When I smell chestnuts trees (that awful Chlorox smell), I can remember my mom having headaches just from the smell. I also remember me sliding down a hill, by accident of course, on my bottom and hands supporting me as Chestnut "thorns" poked me--bad memories!! But then there are those wonderful sounds like the churn of an ice cream maker churning that wonderful homemade ice cream. Somehow, I let the summer of 2007 pass without one batch of homemade ice cream. I am sure for many of you this is an amazing surprise. But guess what...I almost let Summer 2008 slip by the same way. But last weekend, I was determined to not let that happen again! I got a recipe from Brianna Johnson (old Biltmore buddy!! and former high school pal) for Blueberry Cheesecake ice cream--YUMMY!!! Me and the kids loved it! Gene liked the taste. But he is used to me cooking my ice cream first and having more of a smoother texture. Anyway, it brought back great memories of Mom and her friend Judy churning vanilla ice cream with all the fixin's on the side like Mom's homemade freezer strawberry jelly--YUM!!

Pumped about Palin

2008-08-31T16:24:00.001-05:00

Maybe I am getting a little ahead of myself, considering the fact that we don't know "much" about Sarah Palin--but I've just got to say that I am FINALLY pumped about walking into the polls on election day. To see a woman live by her principles in bringing that precious baby into the world and not just saying she is pro-life is enough for me. Knowing our own risks with Hannah (high risk, in fact, according to doctors, those so-called professionals) being possibly born with Down's Syndrome, I think that I can see this lady cares about family, she cares about life regardless of the fact it might cause some problems down the road. The Lord did not place us here to have a life of comfort and convenience, but one that requires us to trust Him! The old hymn says it best, Trust and Obey!! I am sure that she and her husband could never have believed when they chose life over convenience, that they would now be in the spotlight giving testimony to God's goodness. May He hold her up during this time and her family, as well.

God is Good!

2008-08-19T08:56:00.001-05:00

These are our wonderful children! It seems like they are growing and maturing by the minute! We did not have time yesterday to get a picture of Luke for his first day of school, so here he is with the girls on the their first day and Brett's 6th day! We are so proud of them and how they are growing. This year will probably have many struggles, ups and downs, but I want to take today to praise the Lord for His goodness and faithfulness in bringing us to this point. If you had asked me a year ago where we would be, especially in relation to school--I NEVER would have dreamed this. He is faithful!! It has been a l-o-n-g, tiring year for ALL of us and now we get a glimpse of what He was working out for our good.
Some trust in horse, some trust in chariots, but we trust in the NAME OF THE LORD OUR GOD!!! Thank you, Lord!!!!

He's off and running...to Adulthood!

2008-08-11T12:25:00.004-05:00

We dropped Brett off to Greenville Tech Charter High School this morning. He is very excited to have the opportunity to go there. He almost drove us crazy this morning wanting to leave and get there early. Of course, if you know me and Gene, he was already going to be early enough!! right?

Driving Off!
Taking the first step!
Obviously, mom and dad are more anxious about pulling away than he is!

Happy 9th birthday, Luke!!

2008-08-09T06:58:00.006-05:00

Luke doing a little "air guitar" or in this case..."putter guitar"! Isn't he going to be a heart breaker one day!?!

Luke showing his incredible skill in the massive competive sport of putt-putt golf!

Happy 65th Birthday Daddy!

2008-07-24T07:29:00.005-05:00

Daddy's Hands by Holly Dunn
I remember Daddy´s hands, folded silently in prayer.
And reaching out to hold me, when I had a nightmare.
You could read quite a story, in the callouses and lines.
Years of work and worry had left their mark behind.
I remember Daddy´s hands, how they held my Mama tight,
And patted my back, for something done right.
There are things that I´ve forgotten, that I loved about the man,
But I´ll always remember the love in Daddy´s hands.

Daddy's hands were soft and kind when I was cryin´.
Daddy´s hands, were hard as steel when I´d done wrong.
Daddy´s hands, weren´t always gentle
But I´ve come to understand.
There was always love in Daddy´s hands.

I remember Daddy´s hands, working 'til they bled.
Sacrificed unselfishly, just to keep us all fed.
If I could do things over, I´d live my life again.
And never take for granted the love in Daddy´s hands.

For over 20 years, I have heard this song (everyone knows "I'm a little bit country"!) and have always thought of my Daddy. Many times it has brought tears to my eyes! I love you Daddy and hope your day is great!!

Please pray...

2008-07-19T07:03:00.002-05:00

We found out yesterday that some sweet friends that we had back in Asheville have suffered a tragedy. Jeff and Angela Adkins have 4 beautiful little girls. This is one of the sweetest families you will ever meet and one that truly loves the Lord.

This week, their 2nd daughter, Claire, fell out of a tree and broke her arm. Due to her injuries and need for surgery, they were sent to Winston-Salem. Claire made it through the surgery, but later while her Mom was holding her she began to have seizures. Further investigation revealed that she had bleeding on her brain. Friday morning, she passed away. She, of course, is with her Lord and fully whole, but please pray for Jeff and Angela and their children. I can not imagine the grief that they must be experiencing.

The Lord has really convicted me that I have not been making every day count. The Scripture is clear that we are to "count" our days. I believe this means everyday should be lived in a way that honors Him and draws others to Him. I am thankful for my family, but today...I am much more thankful for those hugs this morning and those smiles asking, "what's for breakfast?"

Lord, today we pray that you will strengthen this family in the supernatural way that only YOU can do! Be their Comforter. Thank you that YOU are faithful!! Our trust is in You alone!!

Here we go...

2008-07-01T08:02:00.006-05:00

I have been waiting until I could grab a camera before posting this info....but...as you know, cameras and I are not often found together:) Anyway, Brett got his driving permit a month ago. I have spent the last four (+) weeks teaching him to drive. Let's just say it has been a learning experience for BOTH of us! I guess I am old-fashioned. I think the way WE did it growing up was the correct way---take a class, drive with someone experienced at "teaching" you to drive THEN go get a permit! Wow! What a novel idea. Anyway, in South Carolina--it's not done that way. So once again, the Lord has challenged me in yet another area of my life--trusting Him! Brett is doing a great job, it's Mom that is lost as to how to teach beyond 35-40 mph road driving. We ventured out yesterday onto Hwy 25 coming from the Cliffs direction with 18-wheelers passing us on the left, when it hit me "Hey, you've never driven over 40 mph! Maybe we should pull over and put Mom back behind the wheel!" So TWO miles down the road--I took back the wheel. I felt like Carrie Underwood, "Jesus take the wheel!" I felt bad for Brett because I told him he could drive the rest of the trip back to Cherrydale. Do you ever make a commitment and wish you had been thinking clearer when you made it??? I reassured him that he did a great job, it's me that's not. So...we got home and called Auto Safe and Brett begins (and ends) all of his drivers' ed next week. We are excited because he will be with retired State Trooper King. I can't wait to hear Brett's stories each day. To be honest I think Brett is excited so that he might finally get to drive further than to work at Chick-fil-A and back home or to church and home. We'll keep you posted.

The Pirkbey Kids

2008-06-05T07:06:00.002-05:00

A few years ago, we went camping with our great friends, The Pirkles. While going in and out of stores and restaurants, we were constantly trying to make sure we had not lost 9 children! So as we would exit, we'd say, "OK, Pirkbey's time to go!" and everyone would hop in the cars. We figured we were all 1/2 Ownbey, 1/2 Pirkle--it worked and it has stuck. So here are a couple of Pirkbey pictures from our recent camping trip to Hunting Island, SC in May. For those of you that don't know yet--we sold our camper last week much to everyone's sadness, especially Luke! We just felt the Lord telling it was time. We' ve got kids getting older with much more sophisticated needs, so it was time.

Surprising Katie

2008-05-29T07:14:00.005-05:00

Katie turned 13 on May 12th! Another teenager lives in our home--though I would choose to the phrase "young adult" :) Since we knew we would be at the beach camping during her birthday, we decided to surprise her early.

Katie loves cookie cake and hot pink (with lime green-but that wasn't available...)

And for the biggie...her HOT PINK iPOD nano. She was so excited to finally get her iPOD. She has had so much fun listening to the music and watching some shows that she downloaded from iTunes. Isn't she adorable!?!?!

What a gentleman!

2008-04-27T13:51:00.003-05:00

Watch out if you have girls from ages 4-9 right now. In about 15 years this young man could be stealing their hearts! This is Luke and Emma. Each boy was assigned a girl to escort into the Tea Party on Wednesday. Luke was so excited to get Emma since she was already one of his friends. Also pictured is a photo of the goodies that day. Luke had orange tea with cream and sugar with chocolate covered strawberries and tea cookies. Aren't the teapot cookies adorable?? His friend, Lauren's mom made them. yum yum!

Tea for Two

2008-04-27T13:47:00.002-05:00

This is Luke and his teacher (who has taught him many new things this year!)--Mrs. Pace

Luke and his "Bud"

2008-04-27T13:42:00.003-05:00

The Boston Tea Party

2008-04-27T13:29:00.003-05:00

Luke's class has been studying the Boston Tea Party during the last few weeks. To celebrate, Mrs. Pace gave them a Victorian Tea Party. Here are the boys and girls preparing for the big event. Notice in the last picture, he's preparing for his future as a model for Jos A. Bank!!

Look out Zaxby's...

2008-04-27T13:15:00.007-05:00

Chick-Fil-A's got a secret weapon that you don't have------BRETT OWNBEY!!
Brett began working at Chick-fil-a 2 weeks ago. He is having a lot of fun and EATING a lot more!! Nothing like telling a teenager that he can have a free meal (or milkshake!)!! He's enjoying meeting new people and learning to answer to a "boss." Just thought I'd show you a couple of pictures so that you can see how much he has matured in the last couple of months. Keep in mind, his driver's permit (Lord willin') comes less than a month from now. YIKES!! (If you click on the first picture, zooming in shows off his handsome smile :) )

Happy Birthday, Hannah!

2008-04-15T06:27:00.002-05:00

Hannah turned 11 on the 11th of April. She works at our church's Weekday program with the 2 year old class. On Friday, they surprised her with a party! She got a cookie cake (her favorite) and beach stuff--towel, sunscreen, goggles, plus a gift card to Wal-Mart. She was so excited. I can't believe she is a TWEEN now--where did the time go!?!?! Here are a couple of pictures from our family celebration Friday night...

Working Man

2008-04-12T13:35:00.003-05:00

Brett has officially joined the working world!! He worked for a family friend at Wood You furniture here in Greenville, SC for 2 weeks. He had a great time! This is a picture of him with his first paycheck ever!

31st Annual Reedy River Run

2008-04-03T07:05:00.014-05:00

This is the 31st Annual Reedy River Run downtown Greenville. My goal for my 40th birthday was to do this 5K. My "normal" desire for any birthday would be to gobble up a triple layer chocolate cake with a gallon of my favorite ice cream! I decided that now I am "full grown" that I should have a better goal. Katie wanted to join me in this venture. We had a GREAT time!! She is a real trooper. Don't be fooled--I still ate a whole QUART of MudPie MoJo ice cream from Cold Stone Creamery--a dear friend brought it to me--thanks Lonna! You didn't really think I would skip the goodies, did you?

Who's good-looking kids are these?

2008-03-18T11:09:00.006-05:00

It is so hard to believe how big these guys have gotten! Of course, reality sets in when I see them in a picture like this. Where has time gone? Brett will be 15 in May, Katie will be 13 in May, Hannah will be 11 next month and Luke is now 8 1/2--wow!

Our blood runs ORANGE!

2008-03-18T07:33:00.000-05:00

A great day at UT!!

2008-03-17T20:10:00.004-05:00

We went to see Tennessee play USC on March 9th. Tennessee won by 33 points!! It was the first college game that Angie and the kids had seen! GO VOLS!!!!!

Here's a few more "shots"...

2008-03-17T20:01:00.004-05:00

Back up and running

2008-03-10T19:52:00.002-05:00

Don't fall over, but the Ownbey's have joined the 21st Century with "fast access"! Can we all say, "oooooohhhh"? Hopefully, there will be many updates to come. Just in case anyone is trying to figure out what happened since LAST March--I DID pass my South Carolina boards and have been back practicing dental hygiene at Flatrock Family Dentistry since last June!! Lots has happened, so stayed tuned!

A few more snapshots

2007-03-28T14:32:00.000-05:00

I can't believe we were engaged 18 years ago this past Sunday!! Boy! Does time fly!

Just when we thought Luke was finally growing...(I guess this Oak tree has a couple of 100 years start on him!

Two beautiful girls -- inside and out!

And finally...3 cannonballs!!!

Day trip to Charleston

2007-03-27T20:44:00.000-05:00

These are a few pictures of our day trip to Charleston before I went to take my boards. I am a little sad because they do no include Brett. He was in school that day. It's just a "picture" of how our life is changing and growing. I guess this is a sign of things to come, as we plan for all of them to go to school next year (if I pass these boards). How blessed I feel to have had this trip with them and all the years we've had to home school and have "extra" time with our kids!

Preparin' to Preach

2007-03-27T20:32:00.000-05:00

Just thought I would show you what a preacher that graduated from the University of Tennessee looks like when he's preparin' to preach! Betcha never knew that a great sermon requires your hat to be turned around backwards (it helps you to understand Greek better--I've heard)! Notice the protege on the left! Like father, like son! You gotta love 'em both!

WHEW!!!!....it's finally over!

2007-03-26T12:33:00.000-05:00

I have finally completed my Southern Regional Hygiene Boards! I finished at 2:30 on Friday. Thanks to all of you that prayed for me! I was not nervous, except for about 5 seconds while taking my patient's pulse before I could begin. Remarkably, I wasn't nervous the whole week prior to the examination--that is the power of prayer! Thank you!!!

The time flew by so quickly. As I told Gene, all I can say is that I gave 100% and I don't believe that there is any way I could have changed things to have used my time any better. The SRTA testing agency did not seem to have it together very well (from the fist time I spoke with them on the phone, up until the moment the examination was finished). That proved a little frustrating, but I have made it through. I should have my scores mailed to me in the next four weeks. So, stay tuned to see if I passed or not. I am praying that I did, but I also trust the Lord's plan must be different if I didn't. He is in control and not me!! I am just thankful for the confidence that He provided during my test!And I am thankful for all of the many (mini) details that He took care of for me--especially in the final moments of the week last week!

Please pray for the lady that was my patient. We (Gene and I) were able to talk with her about MANY spiritual issues during the trip to Charleston. She says that she has prayed to receive Christ, but doesn't understand how to "access" the Christian life. She has absolutely NO Christian/ church background. So, it is very exciting to think about the possibility of being able to mentor/disciple somone who comes with no "fixed" answers, as many of us in church usually do. She is a blank slate ready to be taught!! Please just pray that this weekend wasn't "just talk", but that she will truly desire to know God and walk in His ways!

There is much to praise Him for today!!!!!!! "He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to my God" Ps.40:3

Happy New Year's (a little late)

2007-02-04T16:50:00.000-05:00

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Talk about a crazy night! We allowed each of the kids to invite one friend over EACH for a New Year's party/ sleepover! What we were thinking!?!?!?!?!
The kids had a great time! And too much junk to eat! Of course, Gene and I enjoyed the "junk", as well. It was a 2007 to remember! I'm not sure if we will do this again. Ummm... maybe Gene and I will just go out next year, alone!

YUM! YUM!

2007-02-04T16:45:00.000-05:00

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I know that everyone is wishing that Hannah was their little girl now! Look at the awesome Strawberry Cheesecake that she made me for Christmas! Yes, I said Christmas. So, ok...I'm a little slow on the blogging. But hey! It takes a long time to eat a cheesecake. (who am I kidding?? It was gone in two days!)

Katie's Basketball Team

2007-02-04T16:39:00.000-05:00

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Katie has had a great time playing basketball this year. Her game has greatly improved over last year. We are all amazed at how aggressive these girls are when they are playing. I think they must want to win or something :)

This is her team celebrating a win at Chik-fil-A a couple of Saturdays ago. Watch out UT Lady Vols--we've got one coming your way!!!

All the Way from Africa!

2007-02-03T16:02:00.000-05:00

Our best friends, the Pirkles, have finally arrived from Africa! After serving in Missions there for two years, they have returned to work here in the states. We are all praying for the Lord to lead them to where He would have them serve Him next. But hey! Let's be honest...there has to be a little selfish praying going on here at our house! We'd love nothing more than to find out that the Lord would call them to this area (at least within an hour of driving)! Vance will be setting up an OB/GYN practice soon. So pray for the Lord to direct them clearly as to where He'd have their family move that would have the biggest impact on the Kingdom.

As you can see in the picture below, our children look like stair steps (and that's just the girls!). Elizabeth is oldest, then Rebekah, Katie, Sarah, and Hannah.

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The boys are cool just "hangin' out". This is Brett and Caleb catching up on life.

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And last, but absolutely NOT least...the youngest of our Pirkbey family--Luke and Phillip! Evidentally, they are trying to teach each other the latest "moves" since they last saw each other!! These two will keep you in stitches! We are cautious about their teen years! Susan and I are worried that we may have to go retrieve them from jail one day! Obviously, we're kidding!! Keep checking here for more to come of the Pirkbey adventures! I'm sure there'll be a camping trip sometime this summer!

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It's a beautiful day in the Nabor hood

2007-01-17T20:02:00.000-05:00

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We'd like you to meet one of our favorite people...Mr. Nabors. He is one of the gentlemen that we have the honor of taking food to on our Meals On Wheels route. The kids have fallen in love with him. He is almost completely blind and has lost most of his hearing, but he always recognizes the kids. We started doing Meals on Wheels about a year and half ago. When Great-Grandma passed away in 2003, there was a great void in all of our lives, but especially the children's. Senior adults have a lot to give to the younger generations and we wanted our kids to know that life is valuable whether it is an unborn child or 97 year-old man. I am sure that Mr. Nabors will never read a blog, more or less ours', but I wanted to take a chance and let the rest of the world know about him.

Happy Birthday Grandma!

2007-01-16T21:11:00.000-05:00

Today is Grandma Ownbey's birthday and we just want to say "HAPPY BIRTHDAY"! We are planning to celebrate her day on Feb. 3rd. It will be a little late, but that chocolate cake is going to be worth the wait!! We love you, Grandma!!!!

Brett is doing GREAT!

2007-01-11T19:00:00.000-05:00

Yes, I'm bloggin' twice in one sitting. It appears that my pattern of bloggin' will come in spurts, so get ready to read if you see something new and be patient if you pull up the same page for a MONTH, ugh! sorry about the inconsistency--it's been a little busy.

Many of you are asking about Brett. I would like to let him have a chance to blog his thoughts some time this weekend, but wanted to give everyone a small update.

He had a great first day yesterday! He was able to get into his locker each time--whew!! He found all of his classes and was seated on time--whew!! He made it through lunch and gym class--whew!! But best of all, he made a good friend on his FIRST day named Chris. Second best of all...he was excited to go back again today! So far, so good. Thank you all for your prayers and concern. It has meant a lot to all of us.

Hopefully, you can see his blog this weekend.

A Blessing in Disguise

2007-01-11T18:24:00.000-05:00

I have been spending the last couple of weeks trying to finalize plans to go and take my boards for dental hygiene. I have spent the last two days examining my sister and having x-rays made, etc. Good news for her--she doesn't qualify, bad news for me. Actually, it's GREAT news for me...
Paula and I have experienced many years of struggles with one another, try 20 years to be exact. We have travelled down different roads, too numerous to count. But this week has taught me more than I ever knew about the Grace of God. He constantly pursues a love relationship with us. Why? I don't know. As He pursues us, I believe His desire is for us to pursue that love relationship with others, especially in relationships that He PURPOSELY place us in. I have struggled in pursuing that with Paula and have failed her in many ways over the years. But I am thankful for His grace---undeserved favor (blessing). His grace this week allowed me to loose a "patient" opportunity, but instead gave me a FRIEND--my sister! I have enjoyed talking to her on the phone and just visiting in the car on our trip to Asheville, catching up on "who" she really is ( a child of the King, His princess!). I feel like the scripture says in Joel 2:24-26--The Lord has restored (and will continue to) the years the Locusts have eaten away. Thank you, Lord, for your patience with me in this relationship and for not giving up.
Paula, if you're reading this...I love you and I am excited to see how God is working in your life. I look forward to the years ahead as the Lord continues to mold our "sisterhood" into a relationship/friendship that truly reflects the love of Christ. Thank you for giving your time to me for this exam yesterday and just for being willing to be there for me. It meant more than you will ever know!

The Nativity Story

2006-12-21T09:46:00.000-05:00

We took the family to see The Nativity Story yesterday. It was a wonderful movie that really brought the story, that we take for granted, to life! The sacrifice that Mary and Joseph made in obedience to the Lord made me realize how puny my willingness to sacrifice is. But I still stand in amazement the Glory that Christ left in order to come and save us from our sin. Why would He do that?? He truly loves us with an Everlasting love! Christmas past is Him coming as a baby. Christmas present is the wonderful presence of His Holy Spirit leading and guiding the way today. And Christmas Future is being in His glorious Presence for all eternity!! Merry Christmas! and "God bless us everyone"!

no "doubting Thomas" found here

2006-12-17T13:53:00.000-05:00

I want to share today an email we received about an incredible family. We learned of Thomas through our home schooling families here. This is just one of the amazing emails we have received about this strong, Christian young man. He ended his battle with cancer in November and now stands in the presence of the One he loved and honored with his life--Jesus Christ and he is completely healed. His faith was stronger at 16 than any 70 year old Christian I know. It is obvious that he had a special annointing of the Lord on his life. May you be challenged by this as much as we were this week:

"d ear friends, one morning on the way to the doctor for chemo, i was talking to thomas about my wrestling with the specifics of ," giving thanks to God for "everything" in our lives. and praising Him for everything in our lives" Really, my question was wether i had to actually be in a place of thanking God FOR the brain tumors--- or was i just supposed to be able to thank God for His provisions in/through the tumors: answered prayers, blessings, His will in thomas' life etc.....basically,was it that i just needed to thank God for what He was doing in thomas' life with the tumors or was my heart supposed to be at a place of thankfulness/praise for the actual tumors.... i was wrestling with it,because i so wanted everything i was doing to be "right", so that my prayers for thomas' healing would be effective . i told thomas i was struggling with it because it would be so hard for me to honestly be thankful and praise for the " actual thing " that was causing so, so much pain and suffering to my child....... after alot of discussion with thomas and back and forth-- thomas ,always answering me patiently ,and then me saying , but what about this or that .. i asked thomas, " how do you feel, do you thank Him" for" the tumors or how do you handle/feel about it for you personally?" .... thomas looked at me and said, " mom, you think too much!!!! you are wasting time on rabbit trails. the bottom line is this: God sent His Son to die for me! if God never did anything else for me ever: if He never answered another prayer of mine, if He doesn't heal me, if i have brain tumors and suffer, no matter what happens to me ever, if He never ,ever did another thing for me again but that-- His sending Jesus for me- that is enough for me to Praise Him continually, daily , as long as i live..... so mom, just focus on that... praise Him for sending Jesus and quit worrying about the tumors! and being thankful for them or not---all we need to continually praise Him, is His sending Jesus. " so , it hit me this morning as i thought about christmas and it's meaning... for me thanks to thomas' testimony to me.... it is about , Jesus. that is God's gift to all of us---- thankyou for blessing our family this christmas season with your prayers , we are grateful....."

Merry Christmas

2006-12-14T22:01:00.000-05:00

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Merry Christmas from the Grove Park Inn. We had fun going to the Grove Park in Asheville, NC on Thanksgiving night and looking at all the beautiful gingerbread houses. Who knows? The girls and I might even enter the contest next year!

Buff kids

2006-12-14T12:30:00.000-05:00

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the buff beach bums

Ask, Seek, Knock! Receive, Find, OPEN!!

2006-12-14T08:29:00.000-05:00

As you may already know, I have been looking to return to the work force (at least part time). This requires me to be licensed in dental hygiene in this great state of SC! I found out when we moved here that my National Hygiene Boards expired after 15 years. ( I can't believe I graduated almost 19 years ago!) So, pursuing my license would require me, not only to take South Regional Clinical Boards and state jurisprudence, but my Nationals--ugh!!! It's like the SAT of all I learned 20 years ago. Even with the overwhelming task ahead, I thought "well, the Lord is the only reason I passed them before in '88, so He will do it again if this is His desire for me." So Tuesday, as I was having my quiet time, I prayed that God would give me a miracle. He says in Matthew 7, "Ask and you will receive, Seek and you will find, knock and it will be opened to you." So in accordance with His will, I asked that He would help me to by-pass taking these Nationals, with no idea of how He was going to do that, but that I would prepare to take them if that was His desire.

Well...I called the State Board yesterday out of frustration of finding conflicting information on the multiple websites. As I spoke to the lady, she blessed me with the incredible news (drum roll please)...The state of SC no longer requires that the Nationals be retaken!!!! As long as I passed them at some time in my life, they no longer expire! I should not be amazed, but here I stand--constantly amazed at how the Lord works in our lives individually. His Grace is "one size fits all, but it is personalized for each individual"! How does He do that??

So, now I am looking at applying for my South Regional Clinicals which are offered March 23-24 in Charleston, then I will take State jurisprudence after passing SRTA. I have several things to get in order before I can apply, so pray for me as the Lord brings it all together in His way. But a challenge to you...What is God wanting to do in your life (for HIS glory--not ours) that you need to ask, seek, and knock???? Only He sees the big picture, remember we are only a "vapor" here to glorify Him. What does He want to do with our vapor for His eternity?

I can't believe I did this!

2006-12-13T09:31:00.000-05:00

Well, if you are reading this....you are reading HISTORY!! This is a first in the Ownbey household--our first blog!! If my sister is reading this, please call 911 now! She will need to be recovered quickly from falling on the floor! What do you think Paula?? I can't believe I actually did it!