January Farewell

Wow, January!

• a brand new year
• an earthquake
• a BIG birthday
• answered prayers
• a new grandchild
• so blessed

As January 2010 becomes a memory, I just wanted to share a few thoughts and photos from the last week.

In case you have not had the chance to see the video of Jamalyn's account of her experience during the earthquake in Haiti, I have posted it here. Be sure to turn off the blog music so you can hear her.





I spent a little time with Jamalyn and the kids on Thursday afternoon. Here is Margaret dressed as Belle. Yes, she is.

Happy Nathan.

Now she's Sleeping Beauty. With watchful Sidney.

This morning we shared in the pulpit debut of the Revs. Williamson at St. Luke's United Methodist. They were scheduled for a dialogue sermon, which was a reflection on the recent Haiti experience. It was great to share in worship with them, and to hear their heartfelt words about our friends in Haiti.

Rev. Jamalyn Peigh Williamson after the service.

Rev. David Williamson. I really wanted to take their picture in the pulpit together, but Jennifer wouldn't let me.

The sanctuary at St. Luke's.

After the service we shared some fellowship time back at their house with friends from Milroy, Greensburg, Terre Haute, and St. Luke's.

Margaret enjoyed spending time with her bestie, Brittney.

On the way home, I received a photo by phone from Florida. Looks like there's a tiger having fun at Disney World!

Super Cute

Isn't this just about the cutest thing ever?

It will be even cuter when this one is wearing it.

Who Dat Haleigh!

SUPER SAINTS!

The Saints are going to the

Super Bowl!!

Coach Sean Payton talks about this special team.

Quarterback Drew Brees hoists the NFC Championship Trophy.

He acknowledges his fans, the great Who Dat Nation.

Gumbo watches Reggie and Drew in the post game interview.

Drew Brees at the podium. Lovin' the hat.


Now Playing: Party in the MIA



Who Dat!! Geaux Saints!! Bring the Wood!! Finish Strong!!

Haleigh at Home

Andrew and Darci brought little Haleigh home on Friday afternoon. Matthew and I arrived shortly thereafter, and it was a blessing to be able to share those first special days with them.

Aunt Fer came from Zionsville to meet her new niece. A girl with four (great) brothers and a nephew is glad to have another girl in the family.

Sweet Baby Haleigh.

Grandpa Jim, Nana, and Boomie arrived on Saturday, and Jim assumed his favorite baby holding position. One of these days, I will have to locate the pictures of him just like this one holding each of our five.

Matthew and Aunt Fer enjoyed some time coloring with his new drawing pad and markers.

The guys moved to the basement to enjoy a little time with the Wii. Matthew and Andrew played a little baseball.

While Jim and Boomie, um, watched.

Nana got a turn to hold Haleigh.

Such a pretty girl.

Matthew played a few games on his dad's phone.

Andrew took a picture of Granny, Matthew, and Haleigh.

Then Andrew practiced his skills... like father like son.

Andrew had the opportunity to go to the Colts vs. Jets game. Here, he is saying goodbye to Haleigh and Matthew. You can see which team they're supporting. :)

Matthew and I got ready to head back north, and gave hugs and kisses to Darci and Haleigh.

A sweet kiss for his little sister.

We headed back in time to see the end of the Colts' game, and to watch the Saints play. It sure was an exciting day for football. But that's tomorrow's story.

Hello Haleigh!

Haleigh Elizabeth Stewart was born on January 20, at 8:11 p.m., and weighed 7 pounds, 10 ounces, 20 1/2 inches long. She was welcomed by her proud parents, Andrew and Darci, and her big brother Matthew.

Here is a little video to introduce their beautiful little girl to her adoring family and friends.

Please pause the music on the blog and enjoy! Tissues optional.

Homecoming

Not a lot of words today, just blessed and so thankful to be able to welcome the team home from Haiti.

Nathan, David, Margaret, and RuRu walking into the airport.

Outside of his "command center" in TH, but still keeping everyone in the loop.

Nana Lois watching for Jamalyn.

She nearly got the airport shut down by crossing the security line. "Will the woman in the gray sweater please step away from the line."

No one here wearing a gray sweater....

Darrell and Lois wait.

Nathan and David share a giggle.

RuRu and Margaret watching for Mommy.

And here she is!!! There were hugs.... and tears....

and smiles.

A hug for Dad.

Group hug!

A hug for Ruth Ann.

Lots and lots of smiles....

and hugs all around.

David and Jamalyn step away from the group to share a minute together.

We praise God for their safety and continue our prayers for them as they return to their homes and families. We pray for the people of Haiti, especially for our friends in Fondwa and the sweet, beautiful children. My friend Lisa has shared her thoughts about Haiti this week in her blog (lisaschubert.blogspot.com), and I hope you will have a chance to read it. I know it will touch your heart.