Camps

Growing up I never"did camp"as a summer activity. Summer was just summer.No schedules. Just down time, fun and play. So I am not a fan of camp...any kind of camp.We are so busy during the school year that I enjoy the lazy days of summer that go by all too quickly. My children have never been fans of camp either. However this year we had some invitations and requests. We said yes to a few kids and then others wanted in on the camp fun as well. Four kids doing camp, Lulu did not find one that suited her :), made for a very "full" June-much to my dislike. But everyone was happy with their choices and experiences and I just have to put on my "camp hat" and smile!

First up was Xin. He is an amazing artist so we choose art camp for him. He really did some COOL stuff and this painting is now hanging in in his room.

Jaida had ballet Princess camp last week and this is just the perfect fit for our "princess" and most delicate little butterfly.

I took Sam to overnight soccer camp at Clemson university yesterday. He was excited but a little nervous too as this is his first time away from home for several nights. It will be a great learning experience in many ways. I sure do miss my little buddy. I had a few tears on the drive home solo! But I got a call from Sam when I got home and he was doing great and enjoying the first couple of hours... so my heart was better!

No Julia is not at beach camp....she is at soccer camp at USC Aiken but I had no photo of her to use for this. She is also away this week and 2 dark bedrooms make this mama's heart a little sad! I got a call from her too after her first day and she said it was awesome so again my heart was happy!

And this is Lulu having fun and being her usual happy self at "Camp Home"

I look forward to having everyone home on Friday and hearing all the fun they had and then celebrating that we are all together again.

Happy Father's Day

Dada, Baba, Daddy, Dad...thanks for all you do for us! We love you!!!

Those that call you Father

And to my Dad....thank you for the years of love, dedication and selflessness. I love you Dad! You're amazing!

Friday at the beach

Another first

I remember the first time we took each of our children to the beach for the 1st time. They were all at different ages and circumstances but each was memorable. Number 5 was no different. Our little firecracker loved every minute of it. Can't wait to go back in the morning. Enjoying a long weekend at our favorite beach...Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida.

And she walks.....

Tears of joy were cried today! How I love this baby!!!! Praising God for strong legs, straight feet and big steps!

The trip to Regionals

This past Thursday 15 girls and their families headed to Greensboro NC from the state of SC to compete in the regional tournament for Region 3 of the President's Cup Soccer League. There were 12 states represented there by the winning team from each state. Over 2000 athletes from U13 to U17 boys and girls teams. 10 teams left there overjoyed and moving on to the the National Tournament in Sacramento CA where they will play for the National Championship....the other 110 left brokenhearted. The Bulls were unfortunately, not one of the overjoyed teams. As a parent it was a heartbreaking weekend as I watched my daughter play with a bum foot, gut it out, give it her all and come up empty. There were many tears. But the experience is one these girls will have in their hearts forever. They are a great bunch of girls that had a fantastic season with lots to be proud of! And oh how I love this first baby of mine with all my heart and her sheer determination and zest for life! Could not have been prouder. Shed a few tears myself this weekend.....gosh as a Mama it is so hard to see your babies hurting, physically and emotionally!

At Opening Ceremonies Thursday

The Team

Opening Ceremonies trading. The teams were all announced according to state and team and the state flag was carried down. After that there was music, dancing and trading of team paraphernalia among the athletes. It was loud, chaotic, fun and amazing!!!!! 

A team dinner followed

And soccer in the hotel parking lot was a way to end this amazing and memorable day. And it sure didn't hurt that the "cute Alabama" boys U14 team was staying there also and just happen to be playing soccer in the parking lot too!

The first game against Georgia.

Finally the start and getting some of those nerves worked out!

The second game against NC.

Praying on the field before the game...brought tears to my eyes every time. And like one Mama said, "They did this all on their own. Their idea" They also had bible verses written on their arms and faces.

The last game against Texas...only for their pride as the coach said. They went home with humbleness instead.

Prayer before last game. And isn't this the better victory? To know our children have won their eternal salvation..they have the eternal victory.

 Still hard to swallow as a tired, sore, and heartbroken 13 yr old.

So thrilled my daughter had this opportunity and that she gave it to us as well! I love you Julia and I am so proud to be your Mom!!!!

Finishing out the month of May

Xin graduated from Kindergarten! We are so proud of him. They had a cute little performance and a reception following.

Splash Day

 Jaida graduated from Pre-K

Employee play day....and old Mom even made par on a hole (ok it was the Par 3 course but still...)

Memorial Day at the lake

Lastly, my big kids finally finished school today!!!! And my 1st baby.......she finished middle school today! Yes, I have a high schooler now! I didn't even realize it until she said "I am done with middle school!" I cried. Where did time go? See how happy SHE is about it!

So let summer officially begin....and please let it go by slowly!