Happy 14th Abby

Posted on May 13, 2024 by learninggodsway

Dear Abby,

Lately, as I have scrolled through pictures and videos from years gone by, I have been in awe at how you have recently flourished into a young lady. It seems that you have grown up over night not only physically but also in maturity. You have let your hair down so to speak, and your unique personality has begun to shine through in a big way. I am thankful for that because you are loads of fun to be around.

This last year, I watched your volleyball and basketball skills improve because you put in the hard work necessary for skilled athletes. You are definitely a perfectionist and always give your best sometimes to the point of injury and exhaustion, but I have no doubt that you will find the perfect balance as you begin your high school sports journey. We love watching as you show passion when participating in activities you enjoy. I know your determination will pay off! And, I’m excited because I have a front row seat.

Our college basketball dates were one of the highlights of my winter. Your screams and cheers at the television were contagious, and your enthusiasm turned me into a fan. I am glad you went to see Carolina play in February but organizing a trip in March to Indiana to see Caitlin Clark play in person was definitely the icing on the cake. I could tell you had a great time! Are you ready to see her play in the WNBA?

Attending a TobyMac concert and getting the best seats in the house was amazing, but you being there with me made it even more special. I can’t wait to experience many more adventures with you not only over the next four years, but for many more years to come. Simply being around you makes life an amazing adventure. I love you beautiful girl and am thankful God brought us together!

Love Always,

Mom

Abby’s Birthday Interview:

How old are you? 14
What is your favorite food? Pizza
What do you hope you never have to eat again? Not sure
What is your favorite thing to do? Play basketball
What is your favorite animal? Bunny
What makes you happy? hanging out with friends and family
What is the best memory from when you were 13? Going to see Caitlin Clark and TobyMac

What is one thing you’d like to do while you are 14? See Caitlin Clark again and go on vacation
What would you like to do when you grow up? Play college basketball
What is your favorite song? Til the day I Die by TobyMac
Where is your favorite place to eat? Taco Bell, Zaxby’s, and Texas Roadhouse
What is your favorite book? Wonder
Where would you like to go on vacation? To Outer Banks with Mom and Dad, or Hawaii would be nice.
What would you like the world to know? Jesus died on the cross for us because He loves us.

Romans 6:8-11 KJV – For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God. Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.

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Happy Birthday, Ava

Posted on March 10, 2024 by learninggodsway

Dear Ava,

Happy 10th birthday, Ava! It is hard to believe that you turned ten on Christmas day. Here I am once again playing catch up. Your sister’s birthday is only a few days away, so it is time to get caught up!

Over the last year, you have discovered new hobbies such as raising chickens, breaking ponies, and even ballet! You are not afraid of hopping on any pony or horse and taking off even if it is the first time it has ever been ridden.

You enjoy building chicken coops and nesting boxes. You collect eggs and share them with others. When you are not taking care of your chickens or ponies, you are helping out with chores around the farm or building forts in the woods by the creek.

I am very proud of you for joining a ballet class. You are doing so well. It is a joy watching you learn new ballet moves and even a dance routine with your sisters and classmates.

I am thankful we get to watch you mature and grow. Before long, you will be as tall as me and sharing my clothes and shoes like all of your sisters do.

We love you forever and a day! May all your dreams come true!

Love Always,

Mom 💕

Jeremiah 29:11 –

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.

Ava’s Birthday Interview:

How old are you? 10
What is your favorite food? pizza
What is your least favorite food? chicken nuggets
What is your favorite thing to do? play football
What is your favorite animal? horse
What makes you happy? Mom
What is the best memory from when you were 9? Going to Disney
What is one thing you’d like to do while you are 10? Go trail riding
What would you like to be when you grow up? a horse trainer
What is your favorite song? Rebel by Anne Wilson
Where is your favorite place to eat? Texas Roadhouse
What is your favorite book? Amelia Bedelia.
Where would you like to go on vacation? Amish Country in Pennsylvania
What do you want the world to know? God is good.

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Happy 2nd Birthday to Two Precious Babies

Posted on February 7, 2024 by learninggodsway

Dear Sweet Boys,

A year ago today, I did not anticipate adding two more little ones to our family, especially without warning. However, none of us in this home would change your sudden appearance for anything. We all fell in love with you instantly.

We have learned a lot since you scooted into our lives. We have learned that prayers are not always answered in our timing or how we expect. I will never forget praying for God’s will to be carried out in your lives even before your birth. I asked others to pray not only for you but for your mama as well.

Never in my life did it cross my mind that my prayer and many others’ prayers would be answered when I picked both of you up from the place you had called home since being released from the NICU. What I thought would only be a night or two has quickly turned into a year full of snuggles. Those snuggles led us to more of an understanding of what was needed to care for you properly.

The last year has been somewhat of a challenge due to many difficult obstacles that presented themselves, including health concerns. These concerns led to many doctor visits, therapy appointments, tests, surgery procedures, and specialist appointments. Thankfully, a great team of doctors and therapists locally and at UVA surround us and are the scaffolding needed to hold us up as the layers continue to be peeled away and each underlying issue is revealed and tackled.

God works in mysterious ways and knows much more than we do. We must trust in His plans because He holds the future. He has performed many miracles since the day of your conception and birth and throughout the first year of your lives. We have recently slid right into your second year.

We got to celebrate your 2nd birthday not once but twice. We had a party at our house and then another with your birth mama and siblings. It is evident that so many people love you and care about you. We will continue to love on both of you in significant ways as long as the Lord allows us to.

We are grateful for all the Lord has done and will continue to do as you grow more and more each day. We have dedicated both of your lives to the Creator. He silences our fears as we navigate through the unknowns. He reminds us that He loves you more than we ever could! We are thankful.

Love Always,

Mommy 💙

Psalm 56:3 – What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee.

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Happy 12th Birthday, Alayla!

Posted on January 16, 2024 by learninggodsway

Dear Alayla,

Your 11th year was full of unexpected challenges. Sudden severe headaches that were present day and night began a journey that we were not expecting. After a few weeks with no relief, we knew it was time to figure out what was going on. I felt sure you probably just needed a pair of cute glasses to cure your relentless headaches. Needless to say, I was left feeling shocked when the eye doctor said your eye sight was perfect, but there was something much more concerning going on.

The next few days were a whirlwind as we made a visit to a pediatric optometrist who immediately asked for an MRI to be ordered. The MRI results were not what anyone was hoping for, so a lumbar puncture became the next step. Those results were also abnormal, so the MRI results were confirmed. Both of these tests led to referrals with neurosurgery and neurology, which also led to a second lumbar puncture that caused a spinal fluid leak. You scared your friends at church when they found you lying in a completely dark bathroom floor. Your dad scooped you up and brought you home. We phoned the neurosurgeon and scheduled a spinal blood patch.

After this incident, we did not feel as confident in the neurosurgeon as we needed to, so we decided a larger hospital at a university was needed. That’s when the Lord led us to Virginia Commonwealth University. The neurosurgeon and neurologist there have been amazing so far.

Watching you be thrown into the medical world so quickly has not been easy. You were one of our healthiest children physically, so going from thinking you probably just need glasses to a diagnosis of papilledema, increased spinal fluid, chiari malformation, and possible celiac disease has been a complete shock for all of us.

To be honest, the thoughts of one of our children possibly having brain surgery is terrifying to us, so we cannot imagine what you have been feeling up to this point. However, in true Layla fashion, you have handled everything in stride. We would not expect anything different from you because you have always had an upbeat attitude and have made lemonade out of lemons many times thus far in your life. That is just how you are. You roll with the punches with a smile and laugh.

Thankfully the doctors at VCU have been conservative in their treatment for you. It was decided the best plan is to take medications to treat symptoms, repeat MRIs and lumbar punctures as needed this coming summer, and to watch and wait to see if surgery will be necessary. We are grateful we have found such caring physicians, but we are even more grateful for the great physician, our Lord and Savior.

He has held our hands all the way through your newly found medical conditions. He has brought a peace that passes all understanding not only for us but also for you. We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, and we know you love the Lord with all your heart. We cannot wait to see the testimony the Lord brings from your suffering.

If your dad and I could take all the pain and suffering away, we would in an instant. But, since we can’t, we will trust the Lord’s timing. We are here for you, but more importantly, so is He. We love you sweet girl and are thankful God sent you to be our daughter. He knew exactly what He was doing.

Love Always,

Mom 💕

Alayla’s Birthday Interview:

How old are you? 12

What is your favorite food? Lasagna

What is your least favorite food? Mac N Cheese and Broccoli

What is your favorite thing to do? Ride horses

What is your favorite animal? Highland Cow

What makes you happy? My family

What is the best memory from when you were 11? Going to rodeos

What is one thing you’d like to do while you are 12? Go on a cruise

What would you like to be when you grow up? A rancher

What is your favorite song? Things a Man Oughta Know By: Lainey Wilson

Where is your favorite place to eat? Texas Roadhouse

What is your favorite book? Magic Treehouse books

Where would you like to go on vacation? The Bahamas

What do you want the world to know? About Jesus and the Bible is true

Romans 8;28- And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

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Happy 17th!!

Posted on January 6, 2024 by learninggodsway

Dear Jaden,

Wow! The countdown to 18 has officially began. I never imagined we would get here this quickly. But, nevertheless, here we are.

You celebrated your 17th in true Jaden fashion by going on a cruise and exploring Hawaii with one of your friends. I think it is amazing how you have gotten to go on so many adventures over the years. Alaska, Peru, Bahamas, and Hawaii stand out the most. However, you have also went on many other vacations as well. You love to travel!

This past April, just the two of us hopped on a plane and went to Disney with another friend and her mom. We had so much fun! Thanks for joining me as we check boxes off of our bucket lists! I am not sure swimming with sharks in the Bahamas was ever on my bucket list, but we can go ahead and check that one off, too. You teamed up with the life guard, and you both got a good laugh at my expense as I tried to jump onto a floating raft with my arms and legs flailing about.

Only a few weeks ago, you drove your sisters and me to Richmond to see the Grinch. I offered to drive, and you said, “Mom, I’ve got this.” I did not doubt you for a minute, but we all had a few laughs along the way, at your expense this time, considering you missed a few turns and then pulled into the wrong driveway way past dark. I am pretty sure I remember one of your sisters yelling, “Jaden, you are going to get us shot!” You threw the truck in reverse and went on your merry little way. I love your independence and problem solving skills!

Nothing much seems to faze you. You have became a confident young lady who makes goals and achieves them. From barrel racing, to sports, to taking college classes, to working in the public, you know how to get the job done.

Keep your head on straight and continue to serve the Lord in all that you do, and you will continue to succeed! I cannot wait to see what the future holds for you.

I love you something fierce and when God gave me you, he not only gave me a beautiful daughter but also someone who always encourages me to try new things instead of being afraid of failure. Your confidence has rubbed off on me, and for that I am grateful! Thank you for being you!

Love Always,

Mom

Jaden’s Birthday Interview:

How old are you? 17

What is your favorite food? Japanese

What is your least favorite food? Seafood

What is your favorite thing to do? Ride horses or play sports

What is your favorite animal? Cats, dogs, and horses

What makes you happy? Friends, Jesus, family, riding horses, and my pets

What is the best memory from when you were 16? Being able to barrel race in a rodeo for the first time and going to Hawaii with Clara

What is one thing you’d like to do while you are 17? Continue barrel racing and be able to place in a show

What would you like to be when you grow up? An equine vet

What is your favorite song? Pickup Man by Joe Diffie, Lady May by Tyler Childers, Wondering Why by Red Clay Strays, Outskirts of Heaven by Warren Zeiders, Not My Home by Luke Bower, fishes and loaves and The Prodigal by Josiah queen

Where is your favorite place to eat? Yummy Yummy, Wendy’s or Sisters Cafe

What is your favorite book? The Bible

Where would you like to go on vacation? Anywhere warm with sand, Texas, or Vegas

What do you want the world to know? You can’t handle everything at once. Focus on the small things the Lord gives you and dwell on them. God will take care of the rest.

Psalm 100:4-5 – Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name. For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.

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Happy 8th Birthday!

Posted on December 5, 2023 by learninggodsway

Dear Abel,

This year was no different than most of the rest because once again, we celebrated your birthday at Bald Head Island. That has became a tradition each September. I definitely think it’s one we need to continue.

I love watching you catch waves in the ocean. Your excitement is rarely contained as you find big shells or chase crabs back to the water. That huge grin that comes across your face is priceless.

Going to the market and picking out the perfect dessert is always one of the highlights on your big day. Sneaking in a special treat or two exclusively for you always makes me smile. Not much compares to having a birthday party in the beach house as family and friends surround you.

Excitement and anticipation appear as your siblings watch you open each present. Of course, a nerf gun and Stitch stuffed animal are always in those gift bags. Those are two of your favorite things! We all love you so much and hope to celebrate many more birthdays with you! You are very special to us, and your sweet heart makes you shine one step above the rest. Keep that tender heart because the world needs it!

Love Always,

Mommy 💙

Abel’s Birthday Interview:

How old are you? 8
What is your favorite food? pizza
What is your least favorite food? broccoli
What is your favorite thing to do? play with cars
What is your favorite animal? deer
What makes you happy? Giving Mom a hug
What is the best memory from when you were 7? Going to the beach
What is one thing you’d like to do while you are 8? go skating
What would you like to be when you grow up? A soccer player
What is your favorite song? Little Drummer Boy
Where is your favorite place to eat? Dominos
What is your favorite book? Bible
Where would you like to go on vacation? Disney World
What do you want the world to know? God is good, and God loves you.

Psalm 100:5 – For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; And his truth endureth to all generations.

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Happy 14th Birthday, James!

Posted on September 26, 2023 by learninggodsway

Dear James,

I am undeniably almost 5 months late writing your birthday letter! You know me by now. I’m always a day late and dollar short it seems. It is not because I want to be. But, you know how life goes with our busy schedule!

Nevertheless, we had a great birthday celebration at home this year. The big 14 came way too quickly. You have grown and matured so much lately. Everyone always talks about how they cannot believe how much you have grown. Being 6 ft tall and a size 12 1/2 shoe surprises most folks even your mama!

I have said it time and time again that the days are long but the years are short, and that statement continues to ring true. You will officially reach adult status in just 4 years! I know the next 4 years will fly by just like all the rest of them have.

Keep the Lord first in your life in all things. He will continue to take you far and to places that you have always dreamed of. God’s ways are flawless, and He wants to bring joy to your life every day.

I love you more than you could ever imagine. Keep on being the sweet teenager that God intends for you to be.

Love Always,

Mom 💙

James’s Birthday Interview:

How old are you? 14
What is your favorite food? Japanese
What is your least favorite food? tomatoes
What is your favorite thing to do? play basketball
What is your favorite animal? chickens
What makes you happy? people
What is the best memory from when you were 13? playing basketball
What is one thing you’d like to do while you are 14? play basketball
What would you like to be when you grow up? I’m not sure.
What is your favorite song? Made to Love by TobyMac
Where is your favorite place to eat? Chick-Fil-A
What is your favorite book? Bible
Where would you like to go on vacation?Alaska
What do you want the world to know?Jesus Loves You

Psalm 25:3 – Yea, let none that wait on thee be ashamed: let them be ashamed which transgress without cause.

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Happy 9th Birthday

Posted on July 28, 2023 by learninggodsway

Dear Jayce,

How did we get to number 9 this fast? I just do not understand how my little 3 pound baby boy has grown into a little man so quickly.

You are one of the smartest 9 year olds that I know. You are my little explorer who loves to go fishing and hunting. You are also a great farm hand, too. Your daddy enjoys spending so much time with you.

I love your hugs more than anything else. You make my heart melt every single day when you whisper that all you need is one of my hugs. I hope you will always need a hug from Mom!

I get a kick out of watching you with your new pony, Shadow. He has even more energy than you do. He’s such a funny little guy who makes all of us laugh. You also have learned how to ride your new 4-wheeler so well. You begged for one for awhile, so I’m glad we finally found one for your birthday this year!

Always stay sweet, and you will go far in life. Thanks for bringing a smile to my face over and over again. You brighten up my world!

Love Always,

Mommy 💙

Jayce’s Birthday Interview:

How old are you? 9
What is your favorite food? hot Cheetos
What is your least favorite food? marshmallows
What is your favorite thing to do? play outside
What is your favorite animal? dogs and goats
What makes you happy? spending time with Mom and Dad
What is the best memory from when you were 8? Going to Gatlinburg
What is one thing you’d like to do while you are 9? go to Dollywood
What would you like to be when you grow up? a cop or construction worker
What is your favorite song? I’m in the Lord’s Army
Where is your favorite place to eat? Texas Roadhouse
What is your favorite book? The Bible
Where would you like to go on vacation? Dollywood
What do you want the world to know? I love God.

Deuteronomy 31:8 – And the Lord, he it is that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed.

Muddy Pond Days are the Best Days!
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Happy High School Graduation, Jacob!

Posted on May 21, 2023 by learninggodsway

Dear Jacob,

How did we get here so quickly? I know I have most likely said those same words in almost every letter I have written you. Time flies faster than we ever want it to. I really cannot believe you graduated high school today.

I am so very proud of the young man you have become. You excelled in all of the college courses you took this year. You accomplished so much as a senior!

I do not take any credit for your success! Especially since, in normal mom-brain fashion, I forgot to order your diploma cover and did not realize my mistake until 1:30 this morning. Thankfully, I had Pawpaw Tim’s, and your use of the cover from his high school graduation made your ceremony even more special! The Lord makes no mistakes.

You truly are a self learner and love learning new things. You are one of the smartest young adults that I know. I am thankful that the Lord allowed me to be a part of your educational journey. What an honor! Thank you for allowing me to be your teacher.

Take the knowledge the Lord has given you and do great things for Him. Do not ever wander from the path He has created for you. His path is where His greatest blessings are.

I cannot wait to see what the Lord has in store for you. Of course, there will be tough times along the way. But some of God’s greatest blessings come after the storms pass. Do not let the hard times defeat you. Trust in the Lord with all your heart; He will direct your paths.

You will always be my baby boy. There is something to be said about being the firstborn. I cannot say that too many times. No one can ever take your place. I love you very much and am thankful for the mother/son relationship the Lord allows us to have. I am grateful for your kind, sensitive, and caring heart. I will love you forever and some more.

Love Always,

Mom 💙

John 13:7 – Jesus answered and said unto him, what I do thou knowest not now; but thou shalt know hereafter.

Proverbs 3:5-6 – Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

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Happy 11th, Jayla!

Posted on May 18, 2023 by learninggodsway

Dear Jayla,

How are you already 11 years old? I cannot believe you are just two short years away from being a teenager. All of my babies are growing up on me including you!

I do believe you will always be my sidekick though. You stay close by my side every single day. You often ask how you can help with the younger kiddos. I am so grateful for your help and how close we are.

You are continually here for me no matter what. I know I can count on you in every situation. You love me so well. Thank you sweet girl!

You are already like a little adult, and you see things in ways that most kids your age wouldn’t. I am thankful God has given you so much discernment and wisdom.

We all had the best time celebrating your birthday at the Mexican restaurant. You were such a good sport when they smeared whipped cream all over your face. That pretty smile never faded!

Keep being exactly who you are. God has great things in store for you. I just know it.

I’ll love you forever and always!

Love Always,

Mommy 💜

Jayla’s Birthday Interview

How old are you? 11
What is your favorite food? Chick-Fil-A chicken nuggets
What is your least favorite food? hotdogs
What is your favorite thing to do? ride horses
What is your favorite animal? koala
What makes you happy? Mommy
What is the best memory from when you were 10? going to Pennsylvania
What is one thing you’d like to do while you are 11? win a barrel race
What would you like to be when you grow up? nurse practitioner
What is your favorite song? Please by Katy Nichole
Where is your favorite place to eat? Chick-Fil-A
What is your favorite book? More Days Go By
Where would you like to go on vacation? Dollywood
What do you want the world to know? God is good

Joshua 1:9 – Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.

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