So indeed we arrive at a New Year this morning and for me it truly was this morning. This persistent illness I've been battling had me in bed by 9 and I never ever knew that midnight came and went. Yet this morning I, like you, face the reality that it is 2014. When I look back personally I realize that 2013 was tame, no big work changes or no new ministry assignments. I did complete my first full year with FNBC Bank and I did complete another big year in ministry with MHT Parish and Rayburn Correctional. As a Deacon, I did reach my 5th anniversary since my ordination was December 13, 2008.
Probably the highlight for 2013 was all things #1 grandson. Wendy and I were able to travel to North Carolina in April, July and September. The differences in Calvin from being 7 months, 10 months and 1 year old were so evident with each visit. Each visit we were able to do more with our little fella as he grows and grows! The September visit was so special because he turned 1 while we were there! In July we brought Elizabeth with us and somehow she and I both managed to catch a virus and had to spend an entire day of the trip away from Calvin. Wendy and I always drive and we have made quite a routine of traveling. We will be back at it in March.
2013 also brought #1 grandson to us for the 1st time. Just last month, right before Christmas, Calvin and mom & dad spent 6 days with us and on one fateful day got to meet all the family. Wendy and I enjoyed every single minute of our visit and have beautiful memories thanks to an amazing photo shoot my daughter in law arranged. Now the build up to that trip was Hurricane Wendy's major renovation project. Finished just in time for the big visit, now I get to enjoy new floors throughout the house, freshly painted rooms and new kitchen counter tops. I even got a new driveway out of the deal!
In 2013 we said goodbye to our last horse, Lindsey, making my little farm horse-less for the first time. Wendy and I realized with her passing that we probably will never own another horse again. The property will certainly be different with horses in the pasture.
The biggest family change in 2013 was our daughter Elizabeth's decision to forego studying for her doctorate as she returned home to begin her teaching career. Initially shocked, we are both so happy to have here so close to us as she lives and works within 25 minutes of our home.
Looking forward, who knows? I truly believe we will be back in North Carolina at least 3 times in 2014 including when my #1 grandson turns 2; time indeed flies! And my hope is that my career at FNBC will continue and my ministry will be effective and faithful!
God Bless us throughout 2014!
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