Thankful Thursday

I can tell I haven't been as consciously aware each day of the little gifts I am given.  I can tell because this post is late and was difficult to write.  So, there are only a few "little" things, with a few big things.  What I have realized is that if I will stop, it doesn't take long to see how blessed I am.  So, for this past week, I am thankful for...

Living in a country where, even when I think my voice isn't heard, much less followed, I am given the incredible responsibility and right to voice that opinion and VOTE.  I can vote without fear of persecution or reprecussion.

The women who came before me, who understood that equal rights didn't mean taking something from men, wanting to be like men or even being better than them; equal rights just meant that our opinion on what happens in this country (and affects us) is equally valid.  I am grateful for the fight they fought, and won.

The fact that I am keenly aware of the sacrifices made so that I can vote.  Because of that even when the options aren't good, I go anyway, taking my responsibility seriously.

 

 Financial stability that keeps my family sheltered, comfortable and thriving without much stress.

My running partner being home, and always encouraging of me and willing to push the double stroller.

A night with an NCAA game, NFL game and an NBA game that all start after the children are in bed.  Add to that a husband who is home and has tomorrow off.  It's a good night. 

Wordless Wednesday

The True Reason for the Season

I love Christmas.  It is by far my favorite holiday and season of the year.  I enjoy finding things for people I care about, things I think they will truly appreciate and enjoy.  I love the smell of Christmas trees, and fires and treats baking the oven.  I love the time with family and friends celebrating.  I love, that even if only for a couple of weeks, everyone is thoughtful and kind (mostly).  And I love what the holiday represents for me as a Christian.
Since I love the season so much I like for it to start as soon as possible, so I started Christmas shopping in September.  Sometimes it's easy, I don't wait for people to think of what they want because I know what I want to get them.  While that works well for adults it doesn't work so well for children who are under the impression that Santa will bring them what THEY ask for, not necessarily what he decides (yes, I am burying the lead on this one).
So, I have been asking Collin what he wants for Christmas.  He responds with, "nothing," "I don't know," "you tell Santa what to get me."  This has been frustrating me for weeks.  How can my 4-year-old have no idea what he wants for Christmas?!?!?  Most preschoolers have lists, long lists.  If he wants some "new, fad" item I need to get it now or I won't be able to find it anywhere, and if I can find it it'll be marked up 100 times.  Now, family members are asking what he wants for Christmas and I don't even know what Santa is bringing.
Somehow, in the midst of my frustration, it dawned on me how wonderful it is that my son doesn't know what he wants for Christmas.  This isn't a negative thing, this is a great thing!  It's not great because I can buy him whatever I want him to have.  It isn't great because I don't have to wrangle trying to find the latest and greatest thing.  This is great because my son doesn't feel like he NEEDS anything. 
There are toys coming out of every crevice of our home, it seems.  I can't imagine adding anything else to the clutter and chaos, yet it's that time of year again.  While I know Collin doesn't consciously realize (or reason) that he has enough things or that there is no more space; Collin is content with what he has.  He is thankful for what is here.  While I am certain he will come up with something for Santa to bring him, I am smiling as I think of the beauty of having a content and happy child.  Maybe it really does take a child to show us the true reason for the season.

  This was the view from my chair last Christmas, the day after Robert returned home from Afghanistan.  Now, that is all I ever want or need.

Collin is a professional miner...

...or so the woman at 30 Acres and a Mule told him. 
Collin's class went on their first field trip of the year last week.  It was a great morning.  Legare was able to hang out with friends in her class so that Collin and I could go on our own (we don't get to do that very often anymore).

So, it was off to a little known place right here in Jacksonville.  They have a great set-up, perfect for a group of 4 and 5-year-olds.  While we waited the children really enjoyed looking at the pigs, chickens, goats and cows.  Then it was time to start our adventure with a hay ride. 

It took us all the way back in time, to a little old western style town (more like a ghost town).  Collin thought it was so cool that when our guide asked for volunteers, without saying what they were volunteering for, Collin was the first to raise his hand.

He quickly changed his mind when he realized he was going to have to put his head and hands in the stocks.

After a quick tour it was back to the main building to pan for gems.  After some specific instructions Collin was ready to go. 

A lot of sand and water later, he had his loot and was quite proud of himself.

So, to celebrate this new profession we went to, none other than, "Old McDonald" for lunch.  Panning makes one work up quite an appetite.

When it was all over, Collin decided that it would be well worth a return trip, with Daddy :)

Thankful Thursday

- I am grateful for my life, the mear fact that I am here and breathing.  It's amazing how loss can truly put things into perspective.  One of my sorority sisters died yesterday.  I wasn't particularly close with her, but I knew her and she's gone.  Just like that.  In a split second a vivacious, healthy, 32-year-old is just gone.  This has been sobering.

- I am so grateful for the joy and happiness my sister has found.  It has been a journey, and it has been a blessing to watch God's work and as he has brought her through the valley to a place of amazing blessing and joy.

- I am grateful for the amazing ability human beings have to rally around one another to help, support, and/or commemorate.  People who haven't been in touch in years, sometimes people who don't even know each other will run towards each other in times of need.

- I am grateful for the amazing friendship I have with my mom.  We talk daily, truly love to spend time with each other and are ready on a moment's notice to "be there."  This makes me...

-...grateful for my daughter and the neat little relationship she and I already share.  While I know the road ahead is long (and I hope it is) and probably a little bumpy, if we come out on the other side as close as my mom and I are it will all have been worth it.

Wordless Wednesday

Thankful Thursday

- hearing Collin call Legare his best friend

- a husband who can calm my nerves and put my mind at peace with just a few short sentences

- the enjoyment of spending time with my family, MY mom and dad and sister

- watching Collin's countdown chain dwindle

- the pride Collin has when he can tell me the day and date each morning, all on his own.

- the freedom to enjoy a field trip with Collin and his classmates, watching their wonder and amazement at everything

Wordless Wednesday

Thankful Thursday

a truly meaningful compliment

baking cookies with Collin on his day off

noticing God's work in ME

the wonderful smell that permeates the house as cookies bake

a beautiful fall day at the pumpkin patch with my kiddos

Wordless Wednesday

The Mall...an adventure???

I could have never imagined, before I had children, that a simple trip to the mall would be anything but simple, and nothing short of an adventure.  Yes, everyday activities are always an adventure with young children in tow.  Friday I was able to convince my friend, Hope, that a trip to the mall in Wilmington would be a great adventure.  So, with our, combined, 4 children under the age of 5 we set off on the one-hour excursion to Wilmington.  We left with no expectation of being able to stay longer than 30 mins.  As we arrived I began to tell her about these great indoor playgrounds that the malls near my parents have.  I discovered them a couple of years ago and thought it was the most genius idea ever.  The confusing part was that no one else seemed to be catching on.  We shrugged, and had the typical conversation about one day living in a metropolis large enough to have something like that.
See, the key to the playground (and of course a stop at the food court) is that you can turn, what is for a young child, a boring shopping trip into an actual adventure.  It helps them buy into the activity, which helps them behave.  To keep them excited there has to be something in it for them.
After long stints in 2 stores and walking half of the mall, the pretzels were gone, the babies were restless and the older children were about ready to run.  We turned a corner and there it was...

Wilmington has caught on!!  There was a small indoor play area.  I think the moms were just as thrilled as the children.  The big boys ran and jumped and climbed and even the babies had space to crawl.  It saved the day and made the adventure.  Hope and I let them play for about 45 mins.  They had a wonderful time and, when they were done, were ready for some "no touching stores."

In the end, we had a successful 4 hour shopping trip.  There were no melt-downs and no whining.  Everyone, except the moms, fell asleep on the drive home.  It was a success, so much so, we may even attempt again.  Though we are both quite certain it's the playground that makes all the difference.

 



Lifesong

"Empty hands held high, such small sacrifice.  If not joined with my life, I sing in vain tonight.  May the words I say and the things I do make my lifesong sing bring a smile to You.
Let my lifesong sing to You.  Let my lifesong sing to You.  I want to sign Your name to the end of this day knowing that my heart was true.  Let my lifesong sing to You.
Lord I give my life, a living sacrifice to reach a world in need, to be Your hands and feet.  So may the words I say and the things I do make my lifesong sing, bring a smile to You."

Music typically has a way of moving me like nothing else.  As many times as I have heard this song, and as many different emotions as it has stirred, one thing is consistent, the first person I think of, each time I hear this, is my Aunt Billie.
As an adult I haven't spent near as much time with her as I did when I was a child, but even still, I know she hasn't changed.  People as genuine and pure as her, don't.  She has a servant's heart and a desire to serve God in all that she says and does.  This desire goes beyond that of anyone else I know.  She has been through valleys plenty and has never ceased in praise and obedience.  She doesn't bend to societal pressures to be something or do something that isn't in line with what she believes God would have her do.  She gives when there is plenty and she gives when there is little.  She opens her home and her heart to those who need her.  She is an example to our entire family of a servant of God. 
My prayer is that one day my lifesong will be as pleasing to God as I'm sure hers must be.

Aunt Billie with my cousin, Christina, and the newest baby, Jack.

Thankful Thursday



the sweet sound of my husband's voice on the phone when he is away.

good friends - those who would use the force of their own breath, Superman style, to halt the rotation of the earth for me, if it would help solve a problem (Alyson, thanks for the wording on that one), or who would just cook dinner in exchange for some company and an adult conversation.

a good deal, especially when it isn't expected

collin making his own list of thanksgiving

a business with good customer service

the rhythmic sound of rain on the roof, and the gentle reminder it gives that I have a home where my family is safe.

my mother-in-law, who always remembers to call to see how we are, especially when Robert is gone.

Wordless Wednesday

11 Months

Dear Legare,

It is so hard to believe that it has been almost a year since you blessed our family with your arrival.  It has been such a joy getting to know you and love you as you have grown and changed over the past year.  It is amazing to watch all of the things you have learned and done so far.  You are such a happy little girl, and all of the world is your stage.
Taking a cue from our dear friend Ms. Katie (Camp's mommy) I'm going to give you a run-down of what is going on in your world this month.

Personality:
You are a determined little girl.  It is so neat to see you look at something, set your mind to it and get there.  You like attention, and are quite adamant about getting it when you need it.  You love everyone, and are happy to have a conversation with anyone who is willing, but in the end you are a mommy's girl.  Your laugh is infectious and can make anyone smile.  You have become quite the little daredevil as you are already tackling the stairs and anything else in your way.  You definitely have a mind of your own and it is so exciting to see you change as it sharpens.      

Size:
No official measurements, but you weigh about 20 lbs.  You are wearing 12 month clothes, size 3 diapers, and with short little feet, you are still in a size 1 shoe.  You have moved into a new car seat b/c the infant one is too small, and too heavy.

Development:
You want to walk so badly you can't stand it.  You have gone from a hands and knees crawl, to your feet and hands on the ground with your bottom in the air.  It looks very uncomfortable, but seems to work for you.  You can stand on your own for a few seconds at a time, and enjoy cruising the furniture.  You talk a lot (it really is no surprise).  "Da-da" is your favorite thing to say, and daddy's favorite to hear.  You can say "ma" when you want more of something and the hard "c" sound when you would like a cookie or a cracker.  You have learned, recently, that you can squeal as well.  This is a pretty shrill sound and you have taken to using it instead of "words" in order to make your point.  We're working on that one.  You have 2 teeth, but that isn't slowing you down. 

Sleep:
You sleep well, which we were unsure would ever happen.  At about 6 months you learned to nap and sleep through the night.  With few exceptions you are taking a morning nap and afternoon nap.  You go down easily at about 7 p.m. and wake up smiling and talking abbout 6:30 a.m.

Eating:
You love to.  You have decided recently that you don't care for baby food anymore.  So, you are eating lots of pasta, cooked vegetables, rice and small bits of meat.  You do still love your bottle and would really take one each time you are hungry, but you are getting about 3 a day.  Vanilla wafers are, by far, your favorite snack food right now closely followed by, what we call, baby rice cakes and puffs.

Playing:
Your favorite toy(s) right now is one of Collin's trucks.  You really do enjoy playing with his toys, not sure if it's because you know it annoys him or if it's just because they are that fun.  You love anything with paper that you can rip or tear.  You aren't so sure about your toys much anymore, other than to chew on them.  Guess it's time for something new.  You enjoy being around other children.  You don't have much regard for their personal space, but they typically don't have much regard for yours either.  The funniest is when you have a conversation with another child your age.  You actually talk to each other, and it is wonderful to watch.  You really like Zach's food and water bowls, and you know you aren't supposed to play in them.  You typically will stop when I tell you "no."

Little girl, it is my absolute joy and privilege to spend each day with you as you learn and change and grow.  I am so excited for this adventure we are on.

All my love,
mommy

Aunt Kelly Comes to Town

One of the best things about living in Jacksonville, NC is that almost all of our family is within driving distance.  While that means we are usually on the road a lot for family functions and fun visits, it also means that they are close enough to come see us.  So, this weekend my sister was in town.  It's always great to have her visit, and I'm pretty sure the kids love it as much as I do.  She not only brings an extra set of hands to help, but it's nice to have time hanging out, like spending the whole weekend with your best friend.

GAMEDAY, of a different kind

It is fall, and in eastern NC that means soccer (actually, around here, any time of year means soccer).  For his 3rd season Collin takes the field as one of the Blue Devils, though there are some differences this year.  Collin is in an older age group and this has brought with it quite a few changes.  Not just a different coach and different players, but now they actually play by the rules.  What was, before, a bunch of children chasing a ball is now an organized game.  Ok, so it really isn't all that organized because we are still working with 4 and 5 year olds here, but the coaches are not allowed on the field, the players are positioned in offense and defense and there is a goalie.  Even at this age, the addition of the goalie is making it quite difficult to score, and causing Collin much frustration.  Parents and coaches are a little more intense, and Robert is doing everything in his power to keep ME from being "that" parent (Lord, help my children and my husband).
Collin is loving it, and is actually enjoying learning the rules and structure of the game.  So, if you are in need of something to do on a Saturday morning Collin would love to have you come watch him play.

Thankful Thursday

Many of you have heard of Ann Voskamp's One Thousand Gifts.  I had certainly heard a lot about before I ever purchased it.  Interestingly, about 20 -30 pages in I have lost the book (hoping someone who needed to read it has found it).  Inspite of the short amount I read the point was surely not lost on me at all.  She writes of thankfulness, and not just thankfulness because you have a home, a family, an income, but thankfulness in the midst of true heartache and disaster.  She writes of praise in the storm.  Voskamp definitely has the life experience to backup her writing, as you learn on page 2.  I really started reading the book to gain some perspective in my own life.  I so very often get caught up in what I don't have, in what I've lost, and in some strange race to keep up with Joneses...as if any of it matters.  I thought if I could take a moment each to truly rejoice and be thankful I would clearly see all that I do have.  Please don't mistake this as a lack of realization of my blessings...I know I'm blessed, I've always known I'm blessed, but I think a deeper appreciation that takes us beyond the obvious, to the awareness of the gifts laid at our feet, each and every day, by a God who loves us gives us a different perspective and a more grateful heart.
So, I have started a list of 1000 gifts.  I try to remember (yes, I need to get a journal for this) to write them down as I think of them and I will share them here each Thursday (for the time being I am leaving out the obvious children, husband, parents, sister because I am hoping to make these specific).

1 -    Watching my son dance when he thinks no one is watching
2 -    Legare's rustle in the middle night that awakens me and reminds me she is ok
3 -    Fresh fall air blowing through the house
4 -    Stretch marks, yes, stretch marks that remind me of my body's ability to grow and bear a child. 
5 -    My health - I can run, I can keep up with my children, I can do ANYTHING I set my mind to
                            without concern that my body won't be able to keep up.
6 -    An early morning run on an empty beach, with praise music on the ipod
7 -    Collin wanting to have a playdate with ME.
8 -    A warm ocean breeze coming off of the water as I sit on the beach.

Wordless Wednesday

Format Change

As I am trying to be more diligent about blogging on a regular basis (yes, I realize it's been two weeks.) I am going to steal an idea from a dear friend of mine who has been blogging much longer than I, and is much better too.  I am going to have a few "theme" days.  This week I am introducing Wordless Wednesday and Thankful Thursday.  The content for each is quite obvious by name.  However, for those of you who know me, Wednesday will be quite difficult, since I think EVERYTHING needs an explanation.  So, here we go...

GAMEDAY!!!

GO GAMECOCKS!!!

First Day of School

YES, both of my children started school!  Ok, so Legare is really just going to Parents' Morning Out one day a week, but, none the less, she has a bookbag, she takes a snack, she brings home artwork and plays with other children...sounds like school to me.  I am so hopeful that she will love it as much as Collin does...so far, so good.

Collin started a kinder-prep program this year at the preschool he has been attending.  I have been so excited about him participating in this program, and can tell you I have NOT been disappointed.  Collin has always loved school, but not like he does this year.  He is thrilled to go everyday.  He doesn't bat an eye at the extra hour he is there.  He is excited to tell me about what he is learning and doing each and every day.  I think he is soaking up the structure and challenge of the class.  He is learning so much and I am so excited for all that this year holds for him.



Crazy, Busy, Wonderful...

It's been a few weeks since I've written, and that is mostly because we have been crazy busy.  Each time I think we may come up for air the schedule fills again and we're off.  Though, if I stop long enough to ponder I realize we wouldn't have it any other way.
So, here's a recap.
The kiddos and I spent a wonderful week in Charleston with my family.  I attended the Beth Moore conference there with some of the women in my life who are dearest and nearest to me.  It was an incredible, uplifting experience and deserves a post all its own.  In the meantime here is a picture of one of my great friends Katie and me, and one of me with mom and kelly

Collin and Legare had a blast hanging out with my dad.  Yes, Papa had the kiddos all to himself for the weekend.  I think it goes without saying that everyone had a wonderful time!  They enjoyed a lazy morning, but definitely weren't in pjs all day.  Dad even got Legare in her complete swim outfit for the pool.

We spent the following days at the beach.  The weather didn't really cooperate, but we always have fun when we're together.  So, it was a great visit.

Then it was home to wash clothes and repack to go to the other end of SC for the baptism of my twin niece and nephew.  It was such a wonderful time.  We got to see family we hadn't seen in a very long time and were able to share such a precious occasion with 2 of our new favorite people.  Unfortunately, we did not do a good job taking pictures.  So, here is what I've got. 

We were working on the poses, screaming babies and getting everyone to look at the camera taking the picture, when it was taking the picture.  What is neat about this picture is that these are all but 2 of the great-grandchildren on Robert's mom's side of the family.  They have never all been together before, and it won't happen much.  This "moment" was not lost on anyone, except maybe the people in the picture :)

With that the summer was over, and school began.

 

 

The Power of Teachers

Collin's first day of pre-school 2010

                                I have always known that, inspite of my education and work experience, I would always just be mom to my children.  They may never know, and, quite possibly, may never care about my time at the White House, working for the Outback Bowl, being a television reporter or my years spent as a teacher.  To them, I am simply mom, and, somedays probably sound like an adult from Charlie Brown.  I know that when it comes to matters of education they will always believe their teachers over me, just as my students did. 
With that knowledge in mind I am well aware of the importance of teachers in a child's life.  I can say, without skipping a beat, the names of all of my teachers.  I can tell you quirky things about them, what I liked, what I didn't like and how well I did in each class.  Now, at more than 30 years old I can still pinpoint the impact each teacher had, for better or for worse (their is a reason I hate Geometry).
So, as you send your babies to school, whether it be preschool or high school or anything inbetween think about this, it's an excellent tribute to wonderful teachers...http://kylenebeers.com/blog/?p=149

Peer Pressure

It's so hard to imagine this sweet boy as a teenager.  As a matter of fact, it's downright frightening and I think about it as little as possible.  However, I know it is coming some day, and that some day will seem all too soon.

Collin has always been a very tenderhearted child.  He is (typically) compliant, though the eye rolling and huffing has started to accompany his compliance.  He submits to authority quickly and is usually a good listener.  Now, please don't mistake this for some angel child who never gets in trouble and always says, "yes ma'm."  He is still a child, and he is still a boy, but he has always been easy to correct.

These things have made raising him a lot more simple than if he were more stubborn, however they have always been a slight cause of concern.  As one who spent a few years teaching 8th grade I am very aware of what is to come.  I have been worried that Collin would fall to peer pressure easily, getting him into trouble that he didn't intend.  I have been concerned that a stronger personality could come along and convince Collin to do something that he may not have done on his own.

Now, I will admit that I did try to use this fear to my advantage.  Collin likes the water, but only as much as he feels in control.  He'll wade in up to his knees and that's good for him.  He'll splash, but not enough to get in his face.  So, this year I put him in group swim lessons thinking he would fall to the peer pressure and become comfortable jumping in the water and putting his head under.  I am quite certain that swim lessons were much more of a learning experience for me than they were for him.

Not only was Collin not "pressured" into swimming, but he didn't even trust the "authority figure" enough to do what she wanted him to do.  Now, he was not disrespectful, and he would follow her directions, but only to his comfort level.  The other children were jumping in, splashing, swimming and he couldn't care less.  It was almost as if he was looking at them thinking, "you guys are fools."  In the end, the swim lessons were successful, but not because of any amount of peer pressure.  They were successful because Collin was willing to do more the more comfortable he got in the water. 

It was an odd feeling of satisfaction for me.  While I was bothered that he didn't take off swimming with the others children or jump with them, there was this calm that came with realizing my child is not going to do anything he doesn't want to do.  At least for now we know this, if Collin does something he made the decision himself to do it.  There is a good bit of comfort that comes with knowing that.

For the good of those who love the Lord...

I've been thinking about this post for a little while.  At first, I wasn't even sure I would make a blog post.  But, like many things in my life, if it weighs on my heart and mind I have to "talk" about it to let it go. 
A couple of weeks ago the ladies in my bible study were discussing the things in our lives that hurt us, or frustrate us.  Being that it was a room full of women, issues with family, extended family, husbands and friends all came to light.  In addition, it is also a room full of mostly stay-at-home moms, the inevitable issues of concern for our children, raising children, doing a thankless job, struggling with wanting to work, a house that never seems clean, etc...  Then, being a room full of military wives it get serious and the true fears begin to come out.  Each of us has moved to a place we never wanted to live, in circumstances we couldn't have imagined, each of us has had a husband leave to a foreign land not really knowing when and if he will return, each of us has walked through major life events (birth of a child, moves,  without a spouse, death in the family, etc...) without our spouse, and most of us know someone who has lost a husband.
As the discussion continued we referenced Romans 8:28, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."  This is a scripture that most know.  It's one many cling to when things aren't going well.  But a curious comment was made, if we truly believe God's word and trust him then why do we fear.  This would leave many to question their faith and trust.  I mean really, does anyone live without fear?
As I pondered this, the reason for the fear seemed clear.  To me, it wasn't my doubt in God's goodness or faithfulness that causes my fear, it is the pain.  To take the most extreme of the situations above, the loss of a spouse (or parent, or child or even a dear friend) must cause unimaginable pain.  It is an event that, I can only imagine, would scar a life forever.  Even knowing that all things will work together for good.  Even knowing and believing and trusting in God's faithfulness does not spare us the pain of loss.  Some of the most faithful believers I know still experience the pain of loss, the pain of life inspite of their true belief that all will be ok.  I don't find that this makes them doubtful of God and his promises, or less faithful.  I simply find that pain is very real for those of us who choose to engage in this life, and that fear of pain is part of the natural human condition.  Even when you know, you know with all of your heart, that God will ultimately make it right, it still hurts when it happens, and no one wants to hurt.

The PGA Championship

I am not golfer, and until recently I am not even much of a golf spectator.  But, as with most things, once you learn the rules and some of the players it gets more interesting.  Last year my dad purchased tickets for us to go to the PGA Championship since it was being hosted at Kiawah Island (you all know how we love the Charleston area).  What we didn't realize at the time is that the PGA gives active duty military and their spouses free admission to any and all days of the tournament, whether it is sold out or not.

Now, there are more than a few corporations who give discounts to military or allow free admission to events, theme parks, etc...  What you don't ever know is how it will be received.  Often times it is written in the fine print, and when asked for the military person is met with a scoff and is slightly embarassed, like they are looking for a handout.  Please don't get me wrong, this is not always the case, but it is the case often enough that we always take pause before using a "military discount."
We should not have feared or doubted the class with which the PGA would handle this.  When we arrived (and were headed to will call) we were met by a man who asked Robert if he was in the military (if you haven't noticed Robert kind of looks the part), shook his hand, thanked him profusely and guided us to where we received our tickets and a PGA hat.  It was made known to all in attendance that the men and women with green PGA hats were active duty military members, so on multiple occassions Robert had perfect strangers thank him for his service.  While that can be a little uncomfortable some times, it was done with sincere thanks, and it was neat to see.
In addition to military personnel getting in free, so did children 17 and under, up to 4 per adult ticket.  No one ever does that.  It was truly a familly environment, and I felt they were honestly trying to provide a great experience for people of varying socioeconomic standing to come and enjoy a great game of golf (yes, we took Collin the first day.  He was much more impressed with Tiger Woods on the iphone game than he was Tiger Woods in real life).
Needless to say we thoroughly enjoyed the tournament. 

It's a very different experience than many other professional sporting events.  The players are right there, and it was neat to see some of the "greats."  It was a good education in golf and attending golf tournaments.
I learned the following:
- If you want anything from the gift shop, go first thing on the first day.  I have never seen signs of such a thriving economy as I did there.
- If you want pictures (of anything) or autographs of the players go to the practice rounds.
- There really is no need to go to the tournament 3 days in a row.  A day off in the middle makes everyone ready to tackle the last day, and enjoy it.
- Set your chairs up early, in a good spot (say, hole 17), then go walk the course.  Once you return (yes, your chairs will still be there undisturbed) you can sit and enjoy the rest of the tournament, and see everyone who is playing, and be there for whatever wonderful end occurs (the players walked on that dirt path).

So, my hat's off to the PGA and Kiawah for hosting such a wonderful event.  And of course, congratulations to Rory McIlroy on an incredible, record breaking win.  I think I might actually enjoy watching golf now.

Yes, He's Been Shopping with Kaka

Accomplishment...

It's an ordinary word, but I have learned that it is often used to refer to more extraordinary things.  When looking to find a way to describe the achievement of something one never thought possible, the word accomplishment came up more than any other.  It means fulfillment, something done admirably or creditably, which would include those things never thought possible.
I am one of those people who do not like to attempt things unless I know I can do it well from the start, preferably, do it better than most.  It has always been a hindrance to me when it comes to trying something new or challenging.  I shy away from that which I don't know and definitely from those thing I have convinced myself I cannot do.  Most of this is tied to pride and the inevitable embarassment that comes when others see you fail or even just struggle. 
An athletic person I am not.  I gave it all a fair shot when I was younger (soccer, softball, basketball), but by high school I had abandoned all efforts at team sports, and really any type of exercise at all.  When I was in college, as part of an effort to keep off the freshman 15, I began exercising at the school gym.  I enjoyed it, could go at a time when few others were there (reference paragraph 2) and successfully kept the weight off.  One thing I never did was run.
My commentary on running has always been, "If you see me running please call the cops, someone must be chasing me."  Running was painful, exhausting, hot, and just all around yucky.  Though, inspite of my grave dislike of the activity (yes, i had tried it before) I always thought it would be such an accomplishment to finish a race. 
I am not sure what initially spurred me to even start, I really don't even have a guess, I just decided one day that I would begin the Couch to 5K running program and that I would run a 5K in November (it will actually be in December, the Merry Fitness 5K in Jacksonville).  With impeccable timing I started training as the Carolina summer was heating up, but I have stuck with it, and at the end of 9 weeks I am running 3 miles.  I am embarassingly slow, it is still not as easy as I think it should be, but I can run 3 miles without stopping and that, for me, is quite an accomplishment.