FAMILIES ARE FOREVER

2012 HAPPY NEW YEAR

2011-12-31T14:13:00.000-08:00

HAVE A WONDERFUL 2012 AND MAY THE LORD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY!!!!!!!!!!!!

Merry Christmas From THE GINN FAMILY

2011-12-01T15:23:00.000-08:00

I want to wish everyone far and near a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful 2012.
We have had a good 2011 and the Lord continues to bless us in so many ways. I am so very grateful for my Savior and His loving example, my beautiful family, and the gospel.

Gregg continues to move forward as Bishop in the Dunn Ward and is on his third year. He also was able to build a house for my parents this year which they absolutely love. He continues to work at Brock Cabinets and does some side work in the construction field. I love him more than ever and am grateful to be his for eternity.

I am currently the Young Women president and loving every minute of it. I truly love working with these wonderful girls and also love the program itself. This coming year Hannah will be moving into Young Women so I will have three of my own in the program. I have been volunteering at Kimberly's school as well as helping Caroline with her homeschooling. I do stay quite busy, but don't we all?

Caroline is currently in the 10th grade. This year she got her driving permit, finished her fourth year of girls camp, and has learned so many more new piano pieces. She is such a help to me in more ways than she knows. She was also called as the ward pianist.

Melanie is in the 8th grade at Benson Middle. She is doing well and seems to enjoy school. Melanie has become quite the artist this year. She enjoys sketching awesome pictures, and all of her friends want pictures drawn of themselves by her. She loves the gospel and especially Young Women. She continues to work on her Personal Progress.

Hannah is in the 5th grade also at Benson Middle. She has done very well with her studies and loves to read. She belongs to a club that is competing in The Battle of the Books. It is a county wide competition in reading. She continues to play the violin. She has the sweetest testimony and for that I am grateful.

Kimberly started Kindergarten this year and really loves it. Her little mind is like a sponge. She has really picked up everything quickly so far. She is growing so fast which makes me very sad, but I know they have to all grow up sometime. I love to hear her pray because she always wants to.

I know that 2012 will bring some new challenges as well as many blessings. May you all be blessed with a great new year!!!

Happy Birthday Gregg and Melanie

2011-11-15T06:42:00.001-08:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY GREGG AND MELANIE!

I am grateful for you both and love you very much.

More Autumn Awesomeness

2011-11-09T11:07:00.001-08:00

Trunk or Treat Cuties

Edward Scissor-Hands created only by Caroline!

HAPPY FALL YA"LL!!!!

Awesome Autumn

2011-11-09T10:49:00.000-08:00

Great fun at the North Carolina State Fair. They all got a taste of their first giant turkey leg as well as lots of rides and plenty of walking around. I always have to go see "SMOKEY the BEAR". My girls are quickly catching up to me in height. But mama is the queen bee no matter how tall you get!

Grateful For the Gospel

2011-10-02T16:25:00.000-07:00

This time of year is so wonderful to me. I love the change of seasons and the opportunity to partake in General Conference. My soul and spirit are filled with such peace and joy as I partake in the spirit from the wonderful talks,music, and prayers. It makes me so very grateful to have the knowledge of the gospel in my life. This past month I have been so very busy in many opportunities to serve. From attending the temple to consoling a sister who had lost her husband I have been strengthened and know without a doubt that serving is what the Savior would have us do. I continue to work hard to correct my short comings and repent for my mistakes' but knowing that I have the gospel there to lean on and learn from I know that all will be well. Thank goodness for the gospel!!

August So Fast?????

2011-07-31T13:23:00.000-07:00

Where the heck did July go? I will say this, it has been the hottest July that I can remember. I sure hope August is not this hot. I am excited for a bit of change forth and coming. Caroline and Melanie will continue with home school for this school year. Caroline will be in 10th grade and Mel in the 8th. Hannah will be in 5th grade and little Kimberly will start kindergarten. It will be somewhat quiet but not much around the house. I also have a new calling as the Young Women's president in our ward. I am looking into joining a home school group for the girls. Busy, busy, busy but it is all good. My Father in Heaven continues to help me along the way.

June Happenings

2011-06-28T11:56:00.001-07:00

So far this summer has been very busy for the Ginn's. We have had a jammed packed June but hopefully July will be a little more calm.

The girls had a great recital . Melanie and Caroline played piano pieces and Hannah played the violin. They all did a super job. They all have talent.

This is the Father's Day gift that was handed out after sacrament meeting to the fathers. The hamburger is made of brownies, a cupcake sliced in half for the bun. She used red and yellow and green icing for the condiments. For the fries she used sugar cookies cut into strips. AWESOME. Sister Junker our Primary President made these.

Happy Birthday Caroline Elizabeth! Wow 15 years old this month. She shares her birthday with cousin William. Next year the big 16!! Papa and Aunt Amy made the cakes. Grandma would be proud!

I couldn't resist this picture. She gets her permit this week. Please pray for her mama!!!

Check out these yummy vegetables that I grew in my garden so far this summer. I have a half and acre of corn on the way!

Girls Camp was WONDERFUL as usual this year. I was asked to cook again but this time had to plan all of the meals and purchase the food for 120 people. I also had a presentation on the temple with a cute craft for 100 girls. Caroline took a few fun pictures.

Whew!! BRING ON JULY!!!

Random Pictures at Springtime

2011-04-30T11:56:00.000-07:00

The girls on Easter Sunday.

I loved this black and white of Kimberly.

Caroline will definately be short like her mother. MaKayla E. and Chelsea E. and Caroline are ready for a formal church dance. They looked quite nice!!!

Caroline does not like wearing dresses. She would prefer a skirt and blouse. I talked her into this fancy dress for the dance. It really looked great on her.

Mass Destruction

2011-04-17T12:54:00.000-07:00

Saturday April 16th was a day we will never forget. Terrible storms and tornadoes moved across North Carolina leaving behind mass destruction. These pictures were taken close to my home. It seemed that it was all around us yet we were able to come out of this untouched and blessed beyond measure. We had golfball sized hail pounding against our windows but the glass never broke. As we huddled in our closet as a family we tried to stay calm, pray, and have faith that we would be safe. Heavenly Father was watching over us as well as the members of our ward. However, there were members in the Fayetteville 1st and 4th Wards that were vicitms of this disaster. Today (Sunday) the priesthood member of our ward left ready and willing to go to Fayetteville and help where they were needed. Among them were my two oldest daughters who wanted to go and help. I am grateful for their willingness to serve and their example to their two younger sisters. I do love the members of the Dunn Ward. They are always ready and willing to help anyone in need. In times of need they are always there and that is a wonderful feeling to know they are there. Things like this will continue to happen more and more as the time draws near for our Savoir's return. I can only pray that we will all be prepared and ready for anything. These are just a few of the many terrible disaster that I saw.

This is a small Hispanic church that was demolished . As we drove past their members were helping to clean up and collect anything they could.

What a bold statement of a flag that someone stood back up. It really brought tears to my eyes. This was at the sight of the Hispanic church.

2011-04-17T12:48:00.000-07:00

Yes, my sweet little Kimberly turned 5 this month. She is loved to pieces in our family. Kimberly keeps us laughing at all of the cute things she says. She is ready for Kindergarten and I am happy and sad to send her. She is so loving and thoughtful for her sisters and she wants to do everything they do. Happy Birthday Kimberly Margaret Ginn. We Love You! We are so thankful to have you apart of our eternal family.

Great Conference Weekend

2011-04-05T12:59:00.000-07:00

All of the talks were great this time throughout Conference. I always ask Heavenly Father to help me listen for something to touch my soul and teach me what I need to hear and know. It wasn't until the last session on Sunday that this prayer was answered. Something in every talk given stood out for me. I always love to hear from Elder Holland. He really surprised me with his talk. You never know what he will speak about, but it is always delivered with such strength. He seemed very emotional with his words of our devoted prophet. I was touched by Elder Scott's beautiful words of his wife. How sweet and special that man is. I heard many great and wonderful things about service. After conference, I always feel that I need to do better as well as uplifted and full of the Spirit. I feel sad when the last song is sung but gratefully, I know that in six months time I get to feel these special feelings all over again. How awesome is that!!

Cherished Memory

2011-04-02T17:41:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted in quite a while. Life is so busy for me lately. I came across this picture of my family which was taken in 1975 as we were sealed in the D.C. Temple. My dad is taking the picture. It was very special to me because I can remember this. I used this picture and my dress my mom made me to be sealed in, which I still have, for a class that I taught at the Stake Women's Conference in March. I am so grateful to be sealed to my family and to also have my own eternal family.

Hannah's Hair

2011-01-25T17:47:00.000-08:00

Hannah received the cutest haircut on Friday of last week. She wanted it cut short so I took her to a lady that does a super job. Here is the before and after shots. Kimberly now wants hair like Hannah's.

BEFORE

AFTER

Hannah really likes her hair and so do I!!

"Mom this is the best Christmas ever!"

2011-01-07T06:56:00.002-08:00

On Christmas morning Kimberly along with Caroline, Mel, and Hannah were really excited to see what Santa had left for them. For some reason this year, there was alot of excitement in the air about Christmas. After opening up three gifts Kimberly runs over to me and jumps into my arms. She gave me the biggest hug and exclaimed "Mommy this is the best Christmas ever!" It really touched me to see such excitment in her eyes. It was sad to not have Grandma in our lives this year. We have such fond memories of her at Christmas. We had a wonderful month of December.

It snowed the day after Christmas leaving us around 12 inches of pure powder. It was awesome and we played in it for 3 days. Kimberly and her best friend Whitney enjoy being pulled by the four wheeler.

This guy hung around for about 5 days.

Lots of great memories made!!

MERRY CHRISTMAS FRIENDS FAR AND NEAR

2010-12-12T09:07:00.000-08:00

Well, it has been one interesting year for the Ginn family. I do know that we made it through 2010 and are all healthy and happy and oh so grateful for all of our wonderful blessings. One of the things that happened for our family this year is moving into our new home. We have thoroughly enjoyed living here and are so grateful to finish building it. Our children are growing and developing so quickly and I am trying to enjoy all of those little moments that are left to enjoy as they grow and mature.

Caroline continues to polish her talent of playing the piano. She continues to share her talent with others by playing for sacrament meeting, firesides, and the most special her grandmother's funeral. She did not care for high school so we are doing home school using the BYU online courses. She is in the 9th grade this year and started seminary. She is up every morning and seems to like attending. She is a big help around the house and I am grateful for her especially being the oldest. She is a good example to the others.

Melanie is in the 7th grade this year. She recently just received braces. If she does well and follows the orthodontist instructions, she only has to wear them 18 months. Melanie is playing basketball on the Rec team here in Benson. She is new to the sport and trying to learn how to play.Melanie loves being apart of the Young Women group in our ward. She is the Beehive president. I appreciate all of the help she gives me with Kimberly. I love her very much.

Hannah is in the 4th grade this year. She loves school and her teacher. Hannah participates in the choral group at school called VOICES. She has already performed on Veterans Day and in the Benson Christmas parade. She is also taking violin lessons and doing quite well. She loves attending the Activity Days at church. She is such a sweet and special part of our family. I love the spirit she always carries around with her.

Kimberly is 4 this year. She will start school in the fall and I will be very sad. She is the EverReady bunny and we all enjoy watching and keeping up with her. She loves her Sunbeam class because her Nana teaches it. She will be moving up in January to CTR4. She loves Primary and singing time. Kimberly cracks us up with some of the things she comes up with. We all love her sweet spirit and lovable personality.

Gregg continues to work hard to provide for our family. He also works hard as Bishop and is doing his best for the Lord. This year was hard for him because of the loss of his mother. He still struggles with her loss but knows his Father in Heaven is there to help him along the way. I love and admire him so much. I appreciate his example and love for others.

As for me, I continue to raise my children and be the best mother and I wife I can be. I love teaching seminary and just took on another calling as the Activity Days leader for the Faith in God program. I stay quite busy with everything and I would not have it any other way. I just turned 41 on the 9th of this month. I still feel young and hope I can feel that way forever. I love my Savior and am so grateful for his redeeming sacrifice. I know that He lives and loves us all. This wonderful time of year our hearts and minds should be set upon our Savior and how He is portrayed in our everyday lives. May 2011 be a wonderful year bringing many blessings to your lives.

Our family wishes you all a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS and a GREAT 2010!!

Happy Birthday Gregg

2010-11-20T12:59:00.000-08:00

We love you very much! Happy Birthday!!!!

Melanie is 13!!!

2010-11-20T12:44:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Melanie!!!! You are certainly growing into a beautiful young lady. We love you so very much and have been blessed for the past "13" years. I cannot believe that you are a teenager. Heaven help your father and I !!!!

We Honor Our Veterans

2010-11-07T13:46:00.000-08:00

Saturday we got a chance to participate in our annual youth stake project of placing flags in front of grave markers for our veterans. The weather was cold but the good feelings of honoring our veterans warmed our hearts. The turn out was not as many as last year, but the youth still did a phenomenal job. Caroline and Melanie enjoyed showing service as well as seeing there friends from the other wards.
I am so very grateful for the men and woman who serve and protect our freedoms. Freedom is not Free!

We Are Daughters of Our Heavenly Father

2010-10-21T12:31:00.000-07:00

I was able to finally finish my Personal Progress book that I started over a year and four months ago. As a Young Women leader I wanted to earn my medallion to be an example to all of the girls especially my own girls. I was able to complete this goal before I was released. I am truly grateful for this wonderful book and the inspiring goals it helps each girl to meet. I am sad to say that I never completed my Personal Progress book when I was in Young Women many years ago. It is never too late and I am so thankful that I was able to finish. This is the brand new medallion and it has a ruby at the bottom. There are also some subtle differences to this one compared with the previous one. I know my girls want to earn their medallion and I will be there to help in any way. Our stake also gives these beautiful ceramic temples to those who earn the medallion. They come to the wards to present them. I am sad not to be apart of the Young Women Organization any more. I truly loved working with each and every one of them.

North Carolina Battleship

2010-10-14T12:02:00.000-07:00

While at the beach we visited this awesome battleship located in Wilmington, NC. It was a very interesting attraction. Everyone loved climbing up and down inside and out of this monster of a boat.

These bunks were stacked five high. They looked very uncomfortable. A person would be very unhappy if their bunk mate had beans for dinner.

Cool propeller!

What a gorgeous day for the battleship. Good memories and happy moments created. That is what is all about.

October Beach Trip

2010-10-14T11:38:00.000-07:00

How cool is it to swim in the ocean in October. We were able to take a long weekend and go to Holdens Beach this past weekend. It was absolutely beautiful. October is a great time for the beach here in NC.

Melanie was to sucker for being buried in the sand.It was in every crevice.

Kimberly loved the boogie board but had a hard time keeping it on her wrist.

She loved the beach more this year than last year.

Gregg was able to unwind and have fun with his girls.

Once Again A Wonderful Conference Weekend!

2010-10-03T17:14:00.000-07:00

How I love relaxing and feeling the spirit in my own home on Conference weekend. We watched every session and Gregg got in the extra Priesthood session. I heard a common theme one of many that stood out to me. Gratitude! We do take things for granted and we need to refocus on what is really important. In the first session on Saturday Elder Holland once again gave the most amazing talk. His words hit home with me. I did love hearing from the First Presidency also. In the second session on Sunday Elder Arnold's talk was so heart felt and personal. It touched my very soul. President Monson's talk in the second session on Sunday was uplifting and wonderful. How can one not want to follow such a dedicated wonderful prophet.I will definately be rereading and marking my November issue of the Ensign. It is weekends like these I wish would go on and on. I am grateful for General Conference.

Can I Be Any Busier???

2010-09-17T12:31:00.000-07:00

Wow what a month so far. Well, seminary seems to be going quite well. I picked up a new student on Monday giving me a grand total of 4. I love the small class of students. They have to pay attention or they will stick out like a worm in an apple. I am struggling with the early morning part. I do seem to get more done in a day. I have to do two things for myself each day one is exercise and the other is to take a small nap. So far the nap isn't as frequent as I would like. I cannot beleive the amount of studying that goes into each lesson.

I am also still in Young Women's. It hasn't been too bad though. I was told by my husband that I would be released soon. It will be very sad because I have grown very close to those sweet young ladies.

On September 19th this Sunday I was asked by President Catlett our Stake President to speak in the Sunday session of Stake Conference. I have worked hard to put together a 15 minute talk. That doesn't seem like a long time but I have to condensed everything I want to say into that time period. I have never spoken in front of a congregation that large before. I can say that I am a bit nervous but I know I will get through it with lots of prayer. My talk will be on how temple worship has blessed me and my family especially in dealing with the trials of mortality.

And lastly, Caroline decided that High School was not for her. She was so excited about being in High School until she actually experienced it for herself. Not even a week after starting she wanted to be homeschooled again. She told us that she had prayed about it and she knew that this was the right thing. She said that drugs and the mention of drugs were all around her. There are many girls there that are also preganat. How do you prepare your child for such a place. Caroline did not have very many friends there because of moving here a couple of years ago. So anyways, she is being enrolled in some BYU High School courses. As for the band she would much rather play the piano than the drums. Hopefully soon we will find her a great piano teacher.

Along with keeping up with Kimberly, Hannah, Melanie and Gregg my plate remains full more so than ever. I would not trade my life with anyone. I know that this is my calling in life and I will try to be ready for life's challenges. HAPPY FALL YA'LL!!!

New Beginnings

2010-08-26T09:05:00.000-07:00

Ok, so here is my brand new high-schooler! She was a little frazzled but made it through the first day. She is in marching band this year and so far is playing the base drum. Caroline will also be starting seminary this year. I know I know these four years will fly by. I still can't believe it!

Melanie is in the 7th grade and loves her classes especially Spanish. Hannah loves her teacher and is considered a senior in her elementary school. She is in the 4th grade. Next year she will be in middle school with Mel. They both get a little longer to sleep in the morning because school starts a little later than usual.

What's this you say!! Well it would be classified as seminary materials. Well one book belongs to Caroline and the other larger one belongs to me. That's right, I am teaching early morning seminary this year. I knew it was coming and not a moment too soon. I will have Caroline and two other young girls to teach from my home. I think that it will be great and am looking forward to learning more about Church History this year.

White Lake Weekend

2010-08-04T11:46:00.000-07:00

Our Family spent last weekend at White Lake enjoying the humidity free weather. The kids had a blast and Gregg and I enjoyed watching them. I am really a beach person so the lake is not my favorite. The girls would swim in anything the holds water. I think they have fins. Only four more weeks of summer vacation. The days are quickly passing. Enjoy them while you can.

Missing a Friend

2010-07-17T02:51:00.000-07:00

My heart is empty and it is so hard to say goodbye. My mother -in-law Norma gave the hardest fight of her life throughout the month of July. She was battling a severe acute case of pancreatitis. On July 15th her birthday she quietly slipped through the veil to go home to our Father in Heaven. I was indeed blessed to be there by her bedside when she quietly took her last breath.What a wonderful woman she was. What an example of someone who constantly served and loved. I know that she was met by her loving parents whom she loved with all of her heart. I know without a doubt where she will be at the last day when our Saviour will return. Our goal as a family is to be worthy enough to be with her because families are forever. I love you Sister Ginn.

A Full Month

2010-07-05T07:16:00.000-07:00

This past month has been so busy with birthdays, anniversaries, a sweet visit to West Virginia, and girls camp I am still trying to catch my breath. I took some great pictures of a memorable month with my eternal family.

Caroline turned 14 on June 10th.She can now attend all of the youth dances at church, start seminary and of course high school. I can't believe she is growing up right before my very eyes.

Gregg and I celebrated our 16th wedding anniversary on June 11th. How grateful I am for him and for a wonderful marriage to my very best friend. I can't wait for 16 more.

West Virginia was so beautiful and cool, a much needed break from North Carolina's heat. Once again thank you Bennetts for your hospitality. We had a blast!

Our theme at girls camp this year was taken from a talk given by Elder Wirthlin entitled "Come what may and love it." This is one of my very favorite talks. So the name of camp this year was CAMP LUV IT! It was awesome with air conditioned cabins and mess hall, archery, high ropes with a zip line, canoes, BB guns and don't forget the splendid Olympic size pool. We were in heaven. It looks like we get to go back next year. My girls had such a great time and our ward was very well behaved and had the best time ever. I got help cook so the food was delicious if I say so myself.

Pray for Norma

2010-07-03T04:15:00.000-07:00

I have a special request to ask from those of you who know me. My mother-in -law Norma Ginn is very sick and is currently in the hospital. She is in ICU with a severe case of pancreatitis. It is a disease that has to do with her pancreas. She is having other problems as well and is on a ventilator to help her breathe. Her kidneys are not great but doing a little better. This hit her out of nowhere. I have placed her name on many temple prayer rolls and am asking many people to fast and pray in her behalf. I know that the Lord's Will will be done. Thank you for your help. We all love her so very much. She is such a valiant daughter of our Heavenly Father.

June Happenings

2010-06-06T13:32:00.000-07:00

Caroline playing at her recital in the Campbell University music hall. She was wonderful playing the Restoration Medley by Paul Cardall which she taught to herself. The spirit was so strong during her performance. What a talent and love she has for the piano. We are so grateful for her.

Pointing out her shots with a disgusted face. She cracks me up!

This month Kimberly got her shots for kindergarten even though she is only 4. I wanted to get it out of the way before time creeps up on me. It was bittersweet because she will be the last child to go through this. She did great and I was so proud of her. One on each arm and one on each leg. OUCH!!

Kimberly's 4th Birthday

2010-04-28T10:05:00.002-07:00

Kimberly Margaret Ginn is 4 years old this month. My how time has flown by. Next year she will start kindergarten. She is the last child which makes my sad and happy at the same time. There is a time and a season for everything. She got to celebrate her birthday in the new house which will be the first of many. We love her to pieces and she bring such great joy and happiness to our family.

Room To Breathe

2010-04-28T09:13:00.002-07:00

This is the playroom that is being utilized quite well as you can see. No couch or real furniture yet. It holds all of the toys which I love!

This is the master bedroom that I really love because of the space as well as the ceiling.

The family room has the hardwood floors that we laid ourselves. Gregg also designed and built the fireplace. Once again I love the tray ceilings in this room.

This is the breakfast nook in the kitchen where we eat most of our meals.

Lots of counterspace and cabinets are great. I do not have enough stuff to fill them.

It is truely a dream come true for our family to finally finish and move into our home. We wil be dedicating it soon. We are forever grateful to our father in Heaven for all of His blessings.

The Time Has Come!!!

2010-04-07T04:28:00.000-07:00

Well blogging buddies we have officially finished the house. It looks wonderful. A lot of prayers, fasting, blood, sweat, tears, and of coarse hard work have gone into this venture. We are currently waiting for the closing date which should be any day now. Boy, I thought that this day would never get here. Yes, I will be posting pictures of the finished project soon. I owe everything to my Father in Heaven for his blessings and comfort throughout these long hard months.

Green Backwards Dinner????

2010-03-21T04:25:00.002-07:00

For our Young Women activity on St. Parick's Day we
decided to have a backwards dinner and make green food. What is it you ask?
Green fettacini noodles with green alfrado sauce along with green yeast rolls
and to drink green Hawiian Punch . The green cupcake sets off the meal as
dessert. The hard part was using a different utensil to eat with other than a fork ,spoon or hands. This made it fun and interesting.

Anna and Brittney carefully try to balance the noodles on a melon baller and cake knife.

McKayla is using a potato masher very successfully.

Caroline chose the orange peeler and Mel has a whisk. Notice she is using the other end.

Chelsea picked a rubber spatula. She is the festive one with the awesome hat.

Melanie just gave up and deciced to use her mouth instead.

Gotta love those girls!!!!!

Twitchy the Tiny Turtle

2010-03-01T07:13:00.002-08:00

I found a tiny turtle on Sunday and Melanie decided to take it and make a home for it in my bathroom. She named him and found a container to put him in. As you can read on her sign his name is Twitchy. She googled what to feed him. She ended up feeding him a banana. Small pieces of fruit is what she read to feed a turtle. Melanie has a huge heart when it comes to animals. I hate to break the news to her but he will not be with us very long. She even made him a maze of dixie cups to walk through. That girl has quite an imagination.

Hallelujah It Finally Snowed!!!

2010-02-01T11:56:00.000-08:00

I took a spin on the old sled. Gregg wanted to go fast but I was chicken. That is the sled that I used when I was a kid.

Kimberly is with her little snowman friend who will be gone by tomorrow. She is quite proud of her first snowman.

Hannah had the bright idea that maybe Kimberly could pull her on the sled. Not happening Hannah! Kimberly tried but it would not budge.

Caroline zooming around on the sled with her neon green hat.

Melanie's turn and Grandpa helped out.

Hannah had to get on her belly so she could hold on extra tight.

Grandpa got out the boogie boards to use on the slippery snow/ice. It worked pretty well.

Kimberly was super excited about the big snow event. She was in it all three days.
Well, we wanted this snow and we sure got it. There is nothing better than a couple of days of no church, no school, or no work. There is also lots of hot chocolate and movies galore. It doesn't happen a whole lot here in North Carolina but we sure love it when it does. As TRUE BLUE SOUTHERNERS we may not know how to drive in it but we sure know how to have fun in it. THANK GOODNESS FOR SNOW DAYS!

Sign of the Times

2010-01-20T17:42:00.000-08:00

The recent disaster in Haiti has really upset my children as well as myself. With all of the gruesome images on the news and media attention that Haiti has received it is hard for the kids not to see any of it. I had a heart to heart talk with them the other night and told them that more and more they will see these type of things happen. I told them that we are in the last days and we must be prepared for we do not know when our time will come. What is so hard for them is to know that innocent children have perished or have lost parents, brothers, and sisters. I told them that Heavenly Father has taken care of all His children in times like these. Those little spirits are safe now and do not have to be exposed to such bad surroundings any more. That made them feel a little better. Hannah wants to give all of her $15.00 to Haiti to help those in need. She brought a tear to my eye with her selflessness. I feel indeed blessed to live in a thriving, free country and most of all to have the gospel in my life. Knowledge of what happens when we leave this earth makes all of the difference. We are all praying for the survivors of this terrible disaster, that those who are there to help will be able to get the supplies to those who are in need. It really puts things into perspective.

2009-12-19T19:54:00.000-08:00

I wanted to take a minute to wish all of my blogging friends a very MERRY CHRISTMAS and prosperous NEW YEAR! We had one heck of a 2009 with a lot of ups and downs. Our family is healthy and happy and that means a great deal! Gregg took a job working at Brock Cabinets which he is getting used to and trying to sell the heck out of some cabinets. He continues to do a wonderful job as Bishop of the Dunn ward and also serving the Lord.

Caroline has progressed well with her foot surgery and also has magnified her talent on the piano. She has a new teacher whom she really enjoys. She is back in school and made the principals list. She is in eighth grade.

Melanie has a new look with her beautiful haircut. She has entered the Young Women's program and is getting used to it with her sister and mom there. She is in art club at school and enjoys drawing. Mel is in the 6th grade.She will going on a field trip with her class to Washington D.C. in March to learn about the Veterans.

Hannah is in 3rd grade this year and loves her school. She is in the Voices singing group and has preformed at several community events. She has such a love of reading any books she can get her hands on.

Kimberly will be in the Sunbeam class in two Sundays. My how time flies. She is very busy and loves to help mommy cook in the kitchen. She keeps us all laughing and helps keep me young.

As for me, I stay quite busy keeping up with four growing girls. I love my calling in Young Women as first counselor. I love my Heavenly Father and my Savior and am so grateful for everything my family has been blessed with this year.
I pray that YOU will have a great 2010.

December Birthdays

2009-12-10T12:24:00.000-08:00

The Ginn family has two birthdays for the month of December. Me and my lovely daughter Hannah. I was the big 40 on the 9th and Hannah will be 9 on December 18th. Someone once asked me if I hated having a birthday so close to Christmas. I told them I just get more presents in one month. I do feel older this year. I guess it is a big deal to turn 40.

Thankfulness

2009-11-26T15:48:00.000-08:00

I thought that it would be appropriate to list some things that I am thankful for for the year of 2009. Our family has had great adversity this year but it has only made us stronger and that I am thankful for. I am grateful for healthy beautiful children who are growing up right before my eyes. I am so blessed to have a wonderful husband who honors his priesthood and is a great father and loving husband.I am grateful for the gospel . Above all I am blessed to know of my Savior Jesus Christ and his love for me. He is the center of my world and without him my life would be empty and obsolete. I am thankful everyday for all of the wonderful blessings that the Lord has bestowed upon me and my family.

November Birthdays

2009-11-18T12:57:00.001-08:00

November is a very special month in the Ginn household. Gregg and Melanie have a birthday almost a week apart. Gregg's is th 12th and Melanie's is the 17th. This year Gregg was 41 and Mel was 12.

Melanie got a sweet hair cute for her birthday from her Nana. She got to go to the salon this time and get pampered.Her she is sporting profile 1 and profile 2. She is also very excited about going to Young Women. She will really add to our wonderful Young Women's program.

Happy Birthday Mel Mel.

Happy Birthday to my best friend. We all love you so very much!!!!

Veterans are Remembered

2009-11-10T06:46:00.001-08:00

In honor of our Veterans the youth in our stake had a wonderful service project to put flags at every grave in this Veterans cemetery. There were about 3,000 plots. There was a great turn out for the service project.

This is an LDS Veteran. Notice the Moroni symbol.

This was Melanie's first service project with the youth. She is really growing up to be a beautiful young woman.

Caroline loves service projects. She was very excited to be here for this special project.

Our cousins are in the same stake and the girls are excited to see them at functions

like this one.

I am very grateful to all of the men and women who serve and protect our country. I am especially grateful for our Veterans and those who have died defending our freedom. God bless our country.

Halloween Excitement

2009-11-02T08:25:00.000-08:00

Who are these people you ask? Well They decided to dress up like the bishop and his wife. Matt is wearing a bald wig and stuffed his shirt to resemble Gregg's plumpness. Nondi curled her hair and is wearing a long skirt and scarf to try and resemble me. We were stunned when they told us who they were. We laughed and laughed. All of this took place at the trunk or treat chili cookoff that our ward did on Friday night. It was a ton of fun.

What a perfect bee costume for little Kimberly. She fits the role!!

Here are the trick or treaters for this year. We have little Red Riding Hood, Scary Skeleton Grim Reaper mix, Gypsy, and Bumble Bee. I think they love it more than Christmas.

October Moments

2009-10-21T13:36:00.000-07:00

I remember showing the cotton last year, but I wanted to post it again because I just love how beautiful it looks. It is about ready to be picked here. October is the month for cotton picking. I just love having a cotton field in my front yard.

Last weekend we went camping at Jordan Lake. It was quite an adventure and lots of fun. You will notice that little Kimberly is not with us for she was entrusted to her grandparents. I did not want to have Kimberly in the woods, cold at night. It was quite cold for mid October and that is the only way I will camp.

Notice the tinfoil at the base of the fire. That is our delicious hobo dinners with real steak and everything. They were very good.

The camp fire was the real hit of the whole trip. It was very large but most importantly it was our main source of heat. That night it got down to 38 degrees.

Kimberly and I decided to make gingerbread families before December this year. I love gingerbread and the smell is delightful. She did such a good job decorating them by herself. She also loved biting the heads off of the cookies.

That is just a few of the Ginn adventures for October. I will be posting our Halloween costumes and fun by next weekend I hope.

LAST DAYS OF SUMMER

2009-09-16T11:30:00.000-07:00

Well summer is just about gone. Fall is right in our doorstep. I wanted to post some picture of our trip to the Holden Beach since we finally got a chance to go. We waited all summer for a trip to the beach and the last weekend of August we got our wish. My aunt and uncle have a beach house they let us use. I just love spending quality time with my family. We don't have alot of quality time together as a family because my husband stays gone quite a bit with his job and calling. We had a much needed break and it was a special weekend just to enjoy each other. I love making memories with my eternal family.

The girls enjoyed scaring away the seagulls.

Caroline and I are feeding those starving seagulls. MINE,MINE, MINE, MINE, remember from "Finding Nemo."

The beach will always be my favorite place to go. I have always enjoyed my times spent there. What a beautiful place!!

Strange Feelings

2009-08-25T09:06:00.000-07:00

This morning I took Caroline, Melanie, and Hannah to school for the first time in two years. I had homeschooled all three one year and then just Caroline last year. I thought that it would be quite simple, but I was wrong. It is way too quiet around here. I miss them all and wish they were here. As a mother I need that constant noise of four sweet children around me. Yes, I know what am I thinking! Well by 3:30 the noise will return and all will be right in the world. I will quickly get used to the peace and quiet eventually but not all the way. Kimberly keeps me very busy with her inquisitive mind. I sure do love my children!

My Favorite Tree

2009-08-02T12:56:00.001-07:00

This is a picture of my most favorite tree in the world. When I was a small child I would climb it as high as I could possibly go. It is special to me because it is at my grandma's house. Each time I would visit grandma my brothers and I would go out back to climb this tree. Grandma has been gone for 12 years, but this old tree is still there. My girls seem to like it also. What a great memory things like this old tree can hold.

No More Facebook!

2009-07-24T05:29:00.000-07:00

Well ,I decided this morning to deactivate my account on Facebook. I have been struggling whether or not to go through with it. I have come to the conclusion that even though it is great to connect and talk with all of your friends and family that it can be quite addicting. I found myself logging on to Facebook many times a day and spending too much idle time reading and responding. My husband came home from a priesthood meeting several weeks ago and told me that President Catlett had warned against the use of Facebook and other things of this nature. I started to pay closer attention to myself and the amount of time I was on Facebook. It was very alarming. I had sudden urges to go and check my Facebook account all of the time (this is called an addiciton NOT GOOD). I feel that I need to spend more time doing useful things like reading my scriptures, the Ensign, focusing on my calling, and most of all spending quality time with my kids. I also came to the conclusion that my blog is a great way to connect with others. I usually post something twice a month not twice a day. I know that President Catlett is a man of God and I should follow his council. I will be a better person for it. I felt that I needed to post my concerns with Facebook to any of you out there that might be experiencing the same things.

Fireplace by Gregg

2009-07-17T07:59:00.001-07:00

I wanted to post this to show the creativeness that my husband has. He wanted a place for DVDs so he built cubbies on both sides. The TV and other components will set on top of the mantle. Soon we want to put marble around the insert. No entertainment center to take up space in the room is great. The house is still a work in progress. Hopefully SOON!

OH HAPPY DAY!!

2009-06-28T16:09:00.001-07:00

Well , I wanted to post good news for those of you who knew of my husband's job situation! He finally found a full time job. He will continue to do some things on the side to supplement his income. It looks like we will be able to get into our house. A ll I have to say is prayer is an amazing and wonderful thing. It has been about 6 months of praying, fasting, and having great faith. I am indeed grateful to my Father in Heaven as well as my Savior for all of the wonderful blessings that we have received during this period of time. Thanks to all who continued to pray for our family because your prayers have been answered. I appreciate all of the words of wisdom as well.

Birthday Fun!!

2009-06-28T15:48:00.000-07:00

We enjoyed a surprise birthday party for my mom this weekend. All of my siblings were there except for my brother Roy who is in Kuwait. We had it at wonderful place called Hibachi Grill. I even made my mom a gluten free birthday cake. My mom cannot eat anything with gluten for those of you who do not know her. It was a lovely evening and I know she was surprised! I love my mom very much and am grateful to her for all that she has taught my throughout my life. She is a wonderful example to my family!

Believe it or not I am the oldest sibling in my family.

This is my mom and Aunt Elaine. They are fraternal twins so you guessed it was her birthday too.

My Best Friend

2009-06-11T14:31:00.000-07:00

This is my best friend. A person who knows me better than I know myself. Gregg is a very giving, loving,patient, and trusting person. He always knows how to make you smile. He is the positive one in our relationship and also my rock. It has been a wonderful 15 years of marriage and I hope we will have a terrific 15 more. I love him more now than ever because we share that special eternal bond that cannot be broken. I am excited to be able to be with him throughout all eternity.

Gregg is the best father in the world. His kids think he walks on water.

Gregg never forgets how to have fun.

He loves all of his girls, also.

Gregg will always be a hard worker and good provider for his family. He always amazes me how he can fix just about anything.

Happy Anniversary My Only True Love!!! You are my best friend and I love you forever!!

Caroline Is "13"

2009-06-11T14:19:00.000-07:00

Caroline and her friend Chelsy enjoy some pizza at her party.

It is hard to believe that I have a teenager under my care. Caroline finally is a teenager. Where did that sweet little tiny baby go? She is growing up and is on her way to womanhood. Caroline has been through a tough time this year with her surgery. She is a real trooper and I am very proud of her. Happy Birthday Caroline! Your family loves you very much!!

West Virginia Trip

2009-05-27T09:53:00.000-07:00

We were so blessed to have some dear friends invite us to visit with them for a few days. Thank you Bennet Family we really enjoyed our time away from our busy life. Here are a few cute pictures of the magnificant mountains and wonderful friends. I have always loved the mountains. They truly are a masterpiece of our Father in Heaven.

Service WIth a SMILE!

2009-04-21T05:19:00.001-07:00

We participated in a service project the Fayetteville Stake to help clean up Fayetteville. It was sponsored by the City of Fayetteville. There were other churches and groups there that participated also.
We wore the helping hands pullover with our church's name on it. It was overwhelming to me because our church by far had the most participants. It was a great experience and I am grateful I could serve.
This was one of the many groups that picked up trash in our stake.

President Joseph Catlett is a wonderful friend, father, husband and example to the saints in the Fayetteville Stake.

He asked us to attend and serve in this project. He was very pleased with the response. So many people love him and know that he will lead us in the right direction. I know that is why so many people showed up to do their part.

Egg Hunt

2009-04-21T05:12:00.001-07:00

This was our second egg hunt. We did one the day before and my battery wasn't charged.Dang! I was able to get a few pictures at Grandmas house. We decorated our eggs and the kids really enjoyed it. Leftovers made deviled eggs and egg salad all week. YUM!

Happy Birthday Kimberly!!

2009-04-21T04:54:00.000-07:00

As children get older they quickly figure out how to unwrap presents. When they run out of presents to open a little disappointed shows. Kimberly loved her presents she received.

Grandma made Kimberly a bunny cake this year.

It was too cute and very delicious. Thank you Grandma.

Kimberly loves bubbles.

She was concentrating hard on blowing this one.

Kimberly got a Hot Wheels from Nana and Grandpa for her third birthday.

She can even tell you how old she is. Her birthday was on Good Friday this year.

She got to have a birthday party and look for Easter eggs.

Six Hours of Being Renewed

2009-04-05T15:32:00.000-07:00

I have to say that conference was everything I thought it was going to be and lots more. I was so very touch by each speaker. It seems like in every talk something important stood out and touched my soul. I am so grateful for words of wisdom that helped strengthen us and uplift our hearts and minds. We are so bless as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints to have a living prophet on the earth today. In the times we now live, we need to listen to and live these precious words which were shared with us this weekend. They will strengthen our testimonies and add oil to our lamps. I am so thankful for all of the words of encouragement that have been given to me in my time of adversity. I know that my Savior lives and loves me. This trial has made my faith stronger and I know without a doubt that things will get better as time passes. As soon as this trial passes another one will take it's place. It is how we handle these test and how we grow spiritually from each trail to help us with the next one. Heavenly Father loves us and that is why he gives us trials. I wanted to share my testimony of what I have experienced with all of my friends that view this blog. I will be sure to share my words of encouragement with you in your time of adversity.

Pushing On

2009-03-27T18:50:00.001-07:00

Our family still continues to pray for Gregg to get a solid job or any work along the way. We are not sure what Heavenly Father has in store for us. We will continue to have faith and "PUSH ON" through each day trying hard to count our blessing and have a good attitude. This is one of the hardest things I have been though yet. The Lord's Time is what I keep telling myself. I also keep hearing the word "Patience." I have always thought that I had lots of it, maybe not. Maybe I need to develop more. Sorry for the depressing post.Maybe the next one will be more upbeat. I will look forward to General Conference so I can be uplifted and feel the wonderful spirit that come from each session. I am so grateful to be a member of The Church of Jesus Chirst o f Latter Day Saints. Because I have the knowledge that comes from the gospel, it has helped me see the big picture and know that one day I can live with my family throughout eternity. That is a wonderful comfort to me especially when I have trials.

I Do Have Three Other Children You Know!

2009-03-22T14:30:00.001-07:00

Yes, I know what was she thinking. She wasn't! She was completely bored and being creative I guess. I am glad it wasn't permanent paint. Caroline being the oldest usually has a lot of responsibly put upon her. I love and appreciate everything she does to help me around the house. She is a good babysitter in training as well. She will be 13 soon and a real teenager.

Melanie has a sweet smile and a sharing heart . She is such a great help with little Kimberly and I appreciate her help. Melaine has a great sense of humor.

No Hannah these are not gloves. Hannah is such a sweet child with a great love for her family. Her little spirit is such an example to me. Yes I do have three other chilren. It seem that I post alot about Kimberely. When they are that litttle you just want to document everything at that cute age and sometimes I get carried away. Sorry girls I will focus on the big picture.

Spring in Wonderful!!

2009-03-22T14:17:00.000-07:00

One of the things that I love about Spring is going to the park. This winter has been a long one and Spring could not get here soon enough. I love this playground because it is surrounded by a fence. Kimberly keeps me moving fast these days. She is very active and quick.

These ducks were amazing. This little fellow was really hungry. He probably would have eaten right out of my hand. We named him Donald.

Kimberly really loves the park. This tunnel was just one of her favorites.

Sweet Little Kimberly

2009-02-26T19:31:00.001-08:00

These picture were taken by my older brother Roy. He has a cool backdrop that he uses and an awesome camera that takes pictures really fast. Kimberly had a great time posing. It was hard to get her to just smile and sit still. She will be three in April. Time is flying by. She is the last and it is a little sad. It has to end somewhere.Right? She brings such joy to our family. The other girls adore her and she learns way too much from them. Don't you just love her red hair.

She does know how to say CHEEEESE!

Little Blessings Everywhere!

2009-02-18T11:38:00.001-08:00

I just wanted to post a thank you to everyone who has kept us in their prayers, brought in wonderful meals, given words of encouragement or just a kind word or smile. Those little blessings have helped me through these hard times. I can feel Heavenly Father's love and I see His love taking place from the service given on our behalf. Once again, we are so blessed to have the gospel in our lives and know without a doubt that it is true. Trials definitely strengthen ones faith and testimony that God lives and also that His son died for us. I am so grateful for family that is close by. What a blessing to us all.

Faith

2009-02-12T08:27:00.000-08:00

It has been quite a while since I posted anything. It seems that our family has been affected by the slump in the housing market. Gregg was laid off by the company he was working for. The company was only able to sell one house last year. So had to be let go. I never thought that our family would be affected by an unemployment. Our faith that things will be O.K. has been our saving grace. Hopefully Gregg will find jobs and move forward with beginning his own business. He does have his contractors license. He is great at home improvements as well. If I have to return to work I will. Either way we will endure this trial. We both have wonderful supporting families who love us and will help. As for the house, Gregg will continue to finish it. If we have to end up selling it then we will. Whatever the Lord's will, we will be willing to do. I love my Heavenly Father as well as my Savior and I know they will not let us down when we are doing our part. I also have to remember to pray for the other millions that have lost their jobs. This is a hard time right now in our country. I am hopeful that when one door closes another opens.

Being Constructive

2009-01-22T14:13:00.000-08:00

The girls really enjoy building tents. They use every blanket, sheet and clothespin they can find. Inside there are different rooms with all of their things. It is so fun to build but a chore to take down. I usually let them sleep in it and latter on the next day it has to come down. It is good play time that doesn't include a Wii or computer.

More House Pictures in the Snow

2009-01-22T14:06:00.000-08:00

My husband took these on Tuesday . We are in the last stages of being finished with building our house. It does have sheetrock on the inside. We are counting down the days for completion. I am thinking sometime in February. I am so very excited to move in.

Enjoying a Beautiful Event

2009-01-22T13:48:00.001-08:00

We did stop for a quick pose although it was bitterly cold.

Caroline's cast did not stop her. We put a sock over the cast then two Walmart bags over the sock and then a large rubber band to hold it all on the cast. It worked great. She stayed on her knees most of the time. She didn't care a bit.

Kimberly did not know what to think. She was in awe!

Hannah jumped right in to try and make a snowball.

Melanie was taken back by the strong winds and blizzard like conditions.

This is what we woke up to on Tuesday morning. Boy were the kids thrilled.

Cool Rainbow in January

2009-01-22T13:41:00.001-08:00

I took this on a day when we were having some bizzare weather. My kids go nuts over a rainbow. They really are so beautiful. I always ask them "What was God's promise?"

A New Day for a New President

2009-01-20T09:53:00.000-08:00

I have to say that I did not vote for Barack Obama. I was even a little upset when he won the election. I have come to terms that he is our new president as of today. I can only hope and pray that he will be guided by our Heavenly Father to make wise choices and decisions that will help our country and its people. I was very impressed by his speech. I feel that of this moment in time that he really will do his very best to fix the problems that exist and also the problems that we will face. I can only pray for him and choose to be positive instead of disappointed. So President Obama, I am putting my trust in you to help our United States of America and to remember to put your trust in God.

The Best Chocolate Chip Cookies

2009-01-19T09:34:00.000-08:00

O.K Tricia, Here it is. These are wonderful and very addicting. Enjoy!
1 c. shortening
1c. brown sugar
1c. sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla
2 3/4 c flour
1 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
1 bag of your favorite chocolate chips
I add pecans 1 cup

375* for the oven. I baked for exactly 10 minutes. Every oven is different. You know how to combine:0) These were just different than any recipe I have used before. Every time I have made them they turn out great. Good Luck!

Check Out The New and Improved Foot!

2009-01-07T08:49:00.000-08:00

This is the foot with all of the gross badages off. She will have several scars, but if you saw her foot before this after shot looks great. Her foot is flat on the bottom and at a great angle. Caroline walked on her tiptoes. So now she will be able to walk flat footed. We are so happy with they way it looked on Monday. She still has to wear a cast for three more weeks. After the cast comes of she will have a special brace to wear in her shoe for quite a while. Her goal right now is the be walking barefooted at grandma and papa's pool by the summer! What a brave girl. We are proud of you Caroline!

This is what Caroline's foot looked like on Monday when the nurse removed her cast from surgery. The gauze badages had been on there the whole time since surgery.

Hannah's Baptism

2008-12-27T18:30:00.000-08:00

Hannah's baptism was a very special day. Most of our family attended along with a few ward members. She was able to wear my baptismal dress that I wore when I was baptized. That is a hugh family tradition that we have. Her dad baptized her and joked about holding her under for 10 minutes. Caroline was able to play the piano and Melanie was the chorister. Gregg gave the talk on baptism and I did the talk on the Holy Ghost. It was quite memorable.

Christmas 2008

2008-12-27T18:22:00.000-08:00

Our family had a wondeful Christmas.We really enjoyed time with each other. Yes Christmas time can be quite stressful. It is all worth the look on their little faces when they get something they really wanted.

Hannah's 8 Today!

2008-12-18T07:57:00.000-08:00

Well, we have yet another baptism to plan. Hannah is finally 8 and she is so excited. We are doing her baptism on Saturday at 10 AM. Caroline is playing the piano and Melanie is leading the music. Gregg is giving the talk on baptism and I am doing the talk on the Holy Ghost. Everyone is involved but Kimberly. I will have baptism pictures soon. We are so very proud of Hannah for wanting to be baptized and recieve the Holy Ghost.

Welcome Home Caroline

2008-12-12T05:43:00.000-08:00

The girls worked very hard to create this for Caroline. They missed their big Sis. and she missed them. My mom kept everyone while Gregg and I were away. We really appreciate her so much.

Caroline was dressed and ready to go home. We were very impressed with the UNC Children's Hospital. Everyone was wonderful and we knew that we had the best care possible for Caroline. Once again, thanks for the prayers on her behalf. We know they helped.

The nurses in the recovery room tied a cute Christmas ribbon around Caroline's cast. It did brighten the mood despite the terrible pain she was in.

Caroline's Progress

2008-12-12T05:28:00.001-08:00

This the aftermath of a three hour surgery. She did great and her doctor was pleased with everything. She had very good drugs and great nurses.

This is Caroline about 30 minutes before surgery. She was in great spirits because her dad made her laugh. She amazed me how brave she was going in and coming out. I love you Caroline thanks for being so strong.

Surgery Tomorrow

2008-12-08T06:55:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow is the big day for Caroline's foot surgery. We are all a little apprehensive about everything, but we feel things will go well. Alot of people were fasting and praying for her on Sunday. I know that Heavenly Father will bless her and her surgeon Dr. Campion. Thanks for any prayers on her behalf. I appreciate it. It is my birthday tomorrow but I don't really care about all that I just want Caroline to be OK and her foot to be right. Sending her off for a third surgery is still very hard. It just about killed us when she was 6 months of age to watch her go back for surgery. I will say that I am very grateful that it is nothing life threatening and I know she will continue to walk and run and be normal. We are indeed blessed.

I Am Thankful For My Children

2008-12-07T19:16:00.000-08:00

I am so very thankful to my Heavenly Father for sending me four sweet and precious girls. They are all so different yet wonderful in their own way. When I say to people that I have four girls I always get a strange look and then sympathy from the person who then says "four girls!" "Are you gonna try for that boy?" Girls are great and I would not trade it for the world. Heavenly Father knew I could handle four girls and so did I.

Smallest Dog in the World

2008-12-07T19:04:00.000-08:00

Yes, this has to be the smallest dog in the world. Her name is Cocoa and she belongs to my dad. Kimberly thinks that it is a toy and sometimes squeezes her tummy too tight. She was the runt of the liter. She sits on my dad's shoulders while they sit and watch TV together. This is definately and old people dog.

Dream Come True

2008-11-14T14:02:00.000-08:00

We finally started on our house. My husband had really worked hard to get started. Patience has been a huge factor in this venture. Lots of prayer has gone into this project. We are so very excited. Gregg has designd a large part of the design. Hopefully we will be in by January. I will post more stages at a later date.

Hot Air Ballon

2008-11-07T21:19:00.001-08:00

Ever so often we have hot air balloons fly over our house. One day I would love to soar through the sky in such a beautiful ride. It is quite amazing watching from the ground.

Tagged!!!

2008-11-07T21:14:00.000-08:00

I have been tagged by Crazy Jenn to post the sixth picture in the sixth folder. It happed to be the bathing suit on the head created by Kimberly. I'm glad she figured out how to breathe. She is quite creative! I tag Heidi, Mandy, and Deon!

HALLOWEEN FUN

2008-11-05T14:19:00.001-08:00

All of the pictures are a combination of Trunk or Treat and Halloween night on a cute flat bed trailor being pulled through our in-laws neighborhood. Kimberly really got the concept of trick or treating. She totally loved it. We certainly racked up on candy!

Surgery For Caroline

2008-11-05T14:02:00.000-08:00

This is one of many cast that Caroline has adored her left foot. Right now she has a black one. The surgeon is stretching soft tissue and tendons hoping the correct as much of her foot as possible before he does surgery on December 9th (my birthday). We are going to UNC Chapel Hill Hospitals for all of this wonderful stuff. I am extremely greatful for such a great doctor who seems to know exactly what he is doing. We are hopeful that everything will be corrected. We will definately be fasting and praying on her behalf.

MULE DAYS

2008-10-01T06:24:00.001-07:00

Saturday morning we got up early and went"up town" as we say around here and went to the annual Mule Day parade. These are some shots that Melanie took. I love small town parades with the beauty queens in fancy cars, veterans waving flags, high school bands, and clowns. In this parade we have mules and lots of horses. The mule is celebrated in this community for all of it's hard work to help farmers. A mule is cross between a horse and a donkey. Not too pretty. Mule Days is a festival that attract about 70,000 people in a four day span. There are carnival rides, rodeos, street dances, bands and singing in the grove, and lots of vendors. It is quite a weekend for those who paricipate. We just attended the parade this year. Oh, and don't forget the plethora of poop that is left behide from those mules and horses.

COUNTRY LIVING

2008-10-01T05:49:00.000-07:00

Here are two things that you cannot find in the city. We wake up every morning to a breath taking sunrise. Right now the sound of geese go along with it. The cotton is quite amazing as well. It kind of looks like snow. We don't get much snow around here. There is a different feeling out here that has to be experienced to appreciate. I love not hearing police sirens or lound booms from Ft. Bragg. Don't get me wrong, I do miss Fayetteville but living in the country is hard to beat. Being so close to nature is kind of like being close to our Father in Heaven. No distractions so one can ponder and think. Ya'll come and visit sometime.

2008-09-22T08:38:00.000-07:00

Coverted Redneck

2008-09-22T08:33:00.000-07:00

Gregg has always called himself a red neck ,but I now he really is one. He borrowed a friends tractor to plow our lot for the house which is still a work in progress. Maybe someday! He looks quite comfortable sitting on the tractor.

Band Aid Fun

2008-09-22T08:24:00.000-07:00

I found little Kimberly in the bathroom applying all of the Band Aids to her leg. At first I was upset, but then it was too funy to be mad at. She worked really hard to open the whole box and strategically stick each one onto her leg. Nice job Kimberly! We sure do love your cuteness.
I really do love the innocence of children. I need to just chill out sometimes and enjoy each day with my children. They grow way to fast and I need to hold on to every cute moment like this one.

Family Photo

2008-08-12T17:59:00.000-07:00

This picture was taken this summer and I thought it was great. My sister-in -law took it at White Lake. I always love a family picture. I will probably send this out in Christmas cards this year.

Tragedy!

2008-08-12T17:46:00.000-07:00

We had a terrible thing happen in our family this weekend. Our dog Hinckely passed away. We were very sad and quite depressed about how it happened. However, we got another dog the very next day. How quickly a little puppy can wash away your cares and sadness. We loved Hinckley but we love our new dog Skipper also. It is amazing what parents will do to take away any pain from their children. Skipper helped.

Kimberly's Butterfly Impression

2008-08-12T17:36:00.000-07:00

Kimberly loves to put things on her head. She decided to put her bathing suit on. She said "Look Mommy I'm a butterfly." How cute is that. She cracks me up with some of the things that she says.

Cardboard Box

2008-08-12T17:31:00.001-07:00

Hannah took it to the extreme by sleeping in a cardboard box. She thought that it was quite comfortable. I had to throw the box out after a couple of days. What is it with kids and boxes?

WHITE LAKE VACATION

2008-07-10T03:31:00.000-07:00

We had a great time at White Lake the week of the fourth.We got to water ski, jet ski, and go tubing all over White Lake. The girls had a blast. They got to spend quality time with their grandparents and cousins. I am grateful that we were able to have a fun family vacation. Melanie learned how to water ski. She's a natural. Hannah learned to kneeboard, what a pro. Caroline enjoyed tubing and hardly got thrown off. Kimberly just loved riding in the boat. Gregg and I were thrilled to see the joy on their faces. Thanks Brother Ginn for the wonderful memories made.

GOD'S LITTLE ACRE

2008-06-21T07:38:00.000-07:00

Thank goodness that I had enough well water to bring the crop through the hot dry weather.

These are my field peas, snap beans and okra.

A good crop is a good omen that the Pack will have a winning season.

TUCKER LAKE

2008-06-19T19:42:00.000-07:00

What a great time my family had at Tucker Lake. We had a cookout and celebrated my Dad's birthday. The kids had fun on the different rides. The waterslide was their favorite. My brothers and sister loved the trapeze. The weather was great also.

Kimberly did not like the sandy bottom of the lake.

Uncle Kirk shows off his muscles.

DAD'S 69TH BIRTHDAY

2008-06-19T19:35:00.001-07:00

My dad turn 69 on June 13th. My mom had a special party for him. Too bad the cake got messed up as you can see. It needs a lillte Carolina Blue on it. The cake was done quite well and was delicious. We are so grateful to have him after all of his trials with cancer. I love you dad you're the best.

2008-06-19T19:24:00.000-07:00

Caroline had two different celebrations for her birthday. She had a great time at both. Her favorite gift was service on her cell phone. Hopefully she will be very responsible with it. We love her very much and are very proud of her now that she is a young woman.

FUN AT KID EXPO

2008-06-06T07:55:00.000-07:00

They girls had lots of fun as you can see. Uncle Kirk looks thrilled to hold little Kimberly. Kimberly did not want t get off of the bouncy slide. She threw quite a fit when it was time to go.

EVERYBODY LOVES KUNG-FU FIGHTING

2008-06-06T07:48:00.000-07:00

This is the girls at the Kid-Expo in Raleigh. They where learning some karate moves with the instructor. They each got to break a board with they hand. It was a nice day.