Do you seriously think God can't use you?

Noah was a drunk
Abraham was too old
Isaac was a dreamer
Joseph was abused
Gideon was afraid
David had an affair and was a murderer
Jonah ran from God
Job lost everything
Peter denied Christ
The disciples fell asleep while praying
Martha worried about everything
The Samaritan was divorced
Zaccheus was too small
Lazarus was dead

Nikki gave me this..don't know where she got it, but it has a good message, doesn't it? I'm so thankful he takes us right where we're at, warts and all. I love the Lord! He is always faithful!

Now for some more blessings:

41) Friendship
42) The gift of a Honeybaked Ham from a neighbor
43) Running cars
44) Sleep!
45) Little ones, and big ones, too!

Merry Christmas!

Jesus loves me this I know, for the Bible tells me so. Little ones to him belong, they are weak but He is strong.


Just popping in to say hello and Merry Christmas! I am up to get ready before the family. There is much to do this morning.

Yesterday was Ted and my 24th anniversary. We managed to get away for an early supper alone..it was wonderful! How thankful I am we are still loving each other all these years later. I got to spend almost 2 weeks with him recently.( Due to the economy he has been working away from home for several months now. )

I will leave you with 5 more blessings..and again, have a blessed Christmas!

36) Some very special neighbors.
37) Friends who don't tell me how I should feel, but just listen, pray, and support.
38) Beautiful food, unexpectedly!
39) 24 years of marriage
40) 9 precious children

Busy month!

Through the woods to Sunday supper at our SC neighbors!

Our trailer on the left!

Boys in their matching pj's!

Ted's buck

Wonderful cookies baked by some special girls!

Just a minute to get in here tonight! So much has been going on lately. We have been in South Carolina where Ted is working now, staying in the front yard of our dear friends. So much has happened lately. I will have to come back, as I have been in here I have stopped already to read 2 or 3 books to my little ones!

I'll be back!!

Oh, and 5 more blessings..

31) A "new" skirt purchased for $2 at a local thrift store
32) Enough food to feed my family
33) Nikki's "new" car
34) Living in the south
35) Ted's new job he starts next week

So many blessings

The days of our years are threescore years and ten; and if by reason of strength they be fourscore years, yet is their strength labor and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away. Psalm 90:10

Nikki at 19..isn't she beautiful?!

Last night, our dear neighbors blessed Nikki with a car, for keeps! I won't put the details in here as I don't know them for sure, but it is a good running car, and thank you, neighbors, from the bottom of our hearts! She has been such a wonderful daughter, and we are so very thankful for Nikki! She is so precious. She is truly good at everything she puts her hand to, and has the sweetest heart. She got a nice deer this week..yep, as I said, she's good at everything she tries. It will be a very fortunate man who wins her heart! :)

We have been doing a good bit of canning these days. The cannery is getting ready to close for the year next Friday. It's open 2 more days, and I'm so hoping to get in a bit more. Friday we did deer chunks and chili, the week before applesauce. I normally do my canning at home but I'm down to 1 burner and I hate to tie it up. 

Last night Ted took me out for my birthday to see a play called The Yankees Are Coming to Christmas. I so enjoyed it! The Rush family, our children's music students, opened with a half hour set, all dressed up in the period clothes..it was a real blessing to see them using their talents for God's glory. Ted and I went out to our favorite Mexican restaurant beforehand. It was a really nice evening. 

A few more gifts..

For with God nothing shall be impossible. Luke 1:37

Jefferson Davis on his birthdate..10-19-09 meeting his siblings

My, it's hard to believe I really had three children in 2 years, 13 days. Now at 2,3 and 4 life is different than at newborn, 1, and 2. How very precious these children are to my heart. I am so blessed. In a way, I feel more like a grandma than a mom..I just appreciate their little lives so much. When I am sad, they love on me and my world brightens. I could work a long time for their little hugs and affections! Thank you, Lord!

A few more gifts:

26) Deer in the freezer

27) My friend and neighbor, Vicki

28) Encouragement from a dear friend

29) Thrift stores 

30) Vehicles that run!

So much to thank Him for..

Then they that feared the Lord spake often to one another and the Lord hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the Lord, and that thought upon His name. Malachi 3:16

The little brothers October 2009

Just a minute this morning to say how thankful that I am for Jed's healing..he was diagnosed in June of 2008 of severe hydrocephalus. The doctors never knew how normal of a life he'd live. Over time he has caught up in his development, and he is smart as a tack! THANK YOU, LORD!!!!!!!!! Oh how we love our little Jed!

Some more gifts..

21) A roof over our heads. (Be it ever so humble, there's no place like home!)

22) Baby hugs and kisses.

23) Traveling safety.

24) A church to worship our Lord, with a godly pastor who prays for us.

25) Forgiveness.

Precious memories

Get wisdom, get understanding: forget it not; neither decline from the words of thy mouth. Proverbs 4:5

The Wright Family in November 1990 (me at 20 years old!)

Wow, here is our family right around this time 21 years ago..goodnight, I am getting old! Ted just called while I was blogging and I told him I couldn't believe I was looking at a picture that was 21 years old, and we already had two children..he reassured me that it happens to everyone, and the other alternative was to be dead. I'll take old. (I am 41..is that middle-aged? Ted says it is.)

In all seriousness, I thank the Lord that we are still together and still serving the Lord. Has it always been an easy road..not on your life. I am glad I couldn't see some of the trials. I am reminded of a song played by a grieving husband at his young wife's funeral called The Dance." And I, I'm glad I didn't know, the way it all would go, the way it all would end. Our lives were better left to chance. I could have missed the pain, but then I'd have had to miss the dance." We've seen many happy times, many sad times, but I thank God we are still together, and Lord willing, we will celebrate 24 years of marriage on the 24th of December.

And for a few more gifts..

16) I am thankful for a mother who supports me in all I do. (I love you sooo much Mom!)

17) The laundry is almost caught up, for today!

18) I have a friend who never gives up on me, and I pray she never will!

19) Peace in the midst of pain.

20) Food in the freezer, thanks to my might hunters!

A new season in our lives

For God hath not given us the spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7

The Wright Kids in the summer of 2004..just starting out

Practicing in December 2010 in our living room

We've had so many memories..playing as a family for over 7 years. There have been many blessings, good times, bad times. We have met so many wonderful people, and traveled all over this nation singing and playing music for God's glory. Our oldest three children are all grown now, and we have officially "retired". They are, of course, continuing on with their music, and probably always will!

The next three children down have expressed an interest in "non-bluegrass" instruments..Naomi is considering learning the harp if she can get her hands on one! Caleb has been given a set of drums (?!) and is anxious to start lessons, and Mandi would love to begin piano lessons again..so we shall see what the future holds. Why, even I have dreams of learning the banjo..so we shall see! 

Thank you to everyone of you who has supported our music through the years. We truly have met so many precious people, and I treasure the memories.  Many have asked about cd's..I am trying to get the funds together to make them all available. I will let you know when I accomplish that!

Ok, now for some more gifts!

16) Chocolate!

17) The church we've been visiting for several weeks.

18) All the beautiful green beans I had much help in canning. (Gotta love them half-runners.)

19) My great-great-great (about 13 or so) Grandfather, William Bradford, who instituted the original Thanksgiving!! 

20) My sweet precious nieces, Leyna and Brianna.

I love you, Mom.

Just a moment before going back to bed. On Saturday, Jeffy said, "I love you, Mom" all on his own! Music to my ears! I just wanted to add a few more gifts to the blog before bed.

11) An unexpected package in the mail. (Thank you, Mom!)
12) Four Bobbsey Twin books I found in the thrift store. (Three of them were from the 1930's!) My grandma and her sister, my Great Aunt Bertha, bought me them all the time when I was little..memories.
13) God's peace in my heart so often in the midst of troubles and trials.
14) A letter from my Great-Aunt Bertha, now in her 90's, who has unfailingly encouraged me my entire life.
15) Encouragement from a friend I've never met in person.

His grace is sufficient for me

And his mercy is on them that fear him from generation to generation. Luke 1:50

Daniel and the Haymaker boys

Just poppin' by for a moment. Having a bit of trouble sleeping, but lil Jed woke up and wants me to cuddle with him..I told him I'd be back after adding a bit to my blog. I am thinking of a few more gifts to add.

6) Special times with friends.

7) Answered and unanswered prayer.

8) Lots of children to love.

9) My Grandma Ruby, now in Heaven, who always believed in me.

10) A faithful husband.

I am thankful to the Lord Jesus, and for everything He has done for me. He gives me peace sometimes in the midst of trials that I can't explain, and His grace is sufficient for me. 

1000 gifts

Nikki, Courtney, and Daniel at 3,2, and 3weeks

Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the Lord upholdeth him with his hand. Psalm 37:24

Good morning! Just a moment to get in this morning and say hello. I am so thankful for the Bible, and the comfort it brings me. I am glad that His mercies are new every morning. Many of my friends have blessed me with their counting of 1000 gifts, and I am so inspired, I will start my own list of blessings..

1) I am thankful for the Lord, that He is sooo faithful through all my mountains and valleys.

2) I am blessed with many happy memories. (See picture above, taken 19 years ago!)

3) I am grateful that Ted has a job in today's economy!

4) We are blessed by a roof over our heads. (Be it ever so humble, there's so place like home!)

5) I am grateful to spend some time with my children..heading out the door with Caleb right now!

Only 995 gifts to go! :)

Have a great day with Jesus!

Thank you, Naomi!!

She's so special!!

Naomi is such a blessing to me..always such a servant's heart. Her name means "Delightful Renewal". Yesterday she bought us the most beautiful matching necklaces that say "Mother" and "Daughter", as well as my favorite candy, red licorice! And it wasn't even my birthday. It meant so much. Naomi, if you read this, thank you so much. I love you so much.

May peace be in thy home, and joy within thy heart. ~C.E. Sargent in his book Our Home, 1893

Under the shadow of thy wings..

How excellent is thy loving kindness, O God! Therefore the children of men put their trust under the shadow of thy wings, Psalm 36:7


On Sunday my dad was coming to visit us. (He and my mom are moving to West Tennessee.) He had just hauled a large U-Haul, and was coming to spend a few days with us before flying back to WA to get my mom and the rest of their belongings. He was in a car accident in Nashville. He had swerved on the freeway to avoid hitting some metal in the road, and lost control of the car. He said he hit lots of trees and bushes before stopping. He went from 70 mph to 0 in a minute and a half. Other than being sore, he is ok.( And a few scratches from the airbag!) He is resting at my sister's. The car is completely totalled. I know the Lord was watching over him, and I just can't believe he walked away from the accident. Thank you, Lord.

Wow, can you believe it's already November?! I sure can't! Life just seems to spin along  so fast at times. As Ted says, "I guess time flies by whether you're having fun or not!" :)

Jed can say the whole 10 Commandments with very little help. Lacey and Jeff are trying, too! They are so precious.

Well, much work awaits me so I must go! Have a blessed day!

Playing hurt..

Thy faithfulness is to all generations..Psalm 119:90a


I have so enjoyed the special services at Fellowship Baptist Church this week. We had special meetings on Monday and Tuesday with Dr. Larry Brown of Washington, Iowa. (Our family actually visited Pastor Brown's church in 1999.) His message was titled PLAYING HURT on Tuesday night and it was so encouraging. He shared how the greatest men of God were the most effective when they had their hearts broken, and still trusted in the Lord. Anyone interested in having a copy of this message can e-mail me at wrightfamilyband@gmail.com. Pastor Brown has suffered tremendous loss in his life in the past several months, and God has filled him with joy. Does he struggle, oh yes, but continues to give God the glory. I want that to be my story, too!

I think of my Grandma Ruby who was always so encouraging, and how she used to say, "God is good, all the time!" Did she have her troubles..you bet she did. She had so many health problems, it was unbelievable. She was tough as nails! She had Parkinson's disease, but she didn't let that stop her. I remember how important a clean house was to her..she would wash her kitchen floor on her hands and knees and fall asleep on that cold floor..wake up a few hours later and start scrubbing again. I miss her so much, and long to be more like her. And look forward to spending eternity in Heaven with her someday.

Got home lastnight and Jed and Lacey had torn my library book all to pieces..Lacey, just barely 3, said, "I'm vewwy sowwwy, Mommy. I won't neveww eveww do it again!" My heart melted. What could I do but hug and forgive.

Have a great day! Jesus loves you!

Happy 2nd Birthday, Jefferson Davis!

Lil Jeffy as a wee baby

Behold, I show you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed. I Corinthians 15:51


Hard to believe my littlest one is 2 today!! Oh, and a monkey he is! He is talking really well. Naomi is still his favorite person in the world. She spoils him! Happy Birthday, Little Man! I love you soooo much!

Jeffy's almost two!

The children of God, from time to time, have wrestled with pain and despair. But in all situations we're lifted up, we're encouraged and strengthened by prayer..From the song I PRAYED FOR YOU.


Little Jeffy will be 2 in just two days! Wow! He was so happy to see Naomi come back on Saturday from her week at Daughters of Destiny camp in North Carolina.

Nikki and Naomi had a wonderful time at camp. Nikki went as a counselor, Naomi as a camper. What a blessing it was to just get some time away with girls and women who love the Lord, and encourage you to walk with Him! I can see they were so blessed, and look forward to them telling me more about their week. Nikki had the privilege of leading one precious soul to the Lord..what an honor. I pray the Lord opens more doors for them to minister and to be ministered to in this way.

God is faithful, all the time.

Happy Birthday to Jed and Courtney!

Happy Birthday to you. Happy Birthday to you. Happy Birthday Jed and Courtney! Happy Birthday to you!!

Our only children who share a birthday are now 4 and 21! I am thankful the Lord gave them both to us, through all the good days and also the hard times. Thank you, Jesus. I have been thinking of their births today, and their lives, and so many memories. Lord, please watch over them always, and may You save all of my children, without the loss of one.

Always so much to do!

And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint. Luke 18:1


We've been keeping busy. It seems there's always enough to do, that is for sure! Tomorrow is a youth day for deer hunting here in Virginia, if I am not mistaken. Mandi is pretty excited about it.

This weekend is the Apple Festival here in Chilhowie.

Please continue to remember our family in prayer.

Saturday mornin'

He giveth more grace when the burdens grow greater. He sendeth more strength when the labors increase. To added affliction He addeth His mercy: to multiplied trials, His multiplied peace.


It's been a long night as all the little ones have kept me awake at some point! Maybe I can get a nap in at some point today.

Last week as I was passing Jeffy by, he was running towards a mouse in the kitchen (I HATE MICE!) and saying "Doggie" as he was trying to play with it. Nikki got rid of it for me, such a brave soul! A little while later he was looking under the couch saying, "Mouse!" It was our little dog who had snuck in when someone came in. So cute!!

I have been teaching the little ones the 10 Commandments recently and they are doing so good. It just blesses my heart.

Daniel turned 19 on Thursday. He is such a wonderful son. He's a blessing to me. Such a nice guy.  Ok, I am slightly biased, being his mom and all! Due to conflicting schedules, we are celebrating with his cake today. Happy Birthday, Daniel!

Have a great day. God is faithful!

Please remember our family

Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. 1 Peter 5:7




Little Lacey turned 3 yesterday, so we now have two 3 year olds and a 1 year old. They are all very precious. We celebrated with a chocolate chip cookie cake. I'll see if Naomi can post a picture or two when she gets up!


Our family is in serious need of prayer. Please remember us. 

Living life..

And they were all amazed at the mighty power of God. Luke 9:43a

Our little Lacey will be three on the 9th of this month. She is so sweet and beautiful, and LOVES shoes. Thinking of getting her some new pink John Deere boots..her others are too small!

Daniel will be 19 on the 15th of the month. He is thinking of going to school, something he thought he'd never do after high school. He's precious to me..I love teasing him. He's lots of fun!

Ok, so a little info on my birthday kids. Here's a bit about the rest of us..

Starting with hubby..he took a new job last month doing commercial carpentry. Working super hard. He's getting skinny..I keep teasing him that I need to get a job where he works!

Nikki (22) is still playing music, works part-time as an assistant to a wonderful elderly woman (she jokes that she's getting paid to take bread baking lessons), still making beautiful quilts..still home!

Courtney (20) works part-time at the little country store, still banjo pickin', getting ready to take off for a two week's trip to her dear friend, Heidi's in Wisconsin, and is planning to start school the next semester as well.

Daniel (18) update above.

Naomi (17) is hoping to start harp lessons soon! She is planning to begin classes herself this year to become an EMT. She has been a super big help to me especially lately as the older girls get busier and busier. (But then she's always been a worker!)

Caleb (14) is growing up way too fast. He is back to school again and plugging away. I think he will end up graduating early like Naomi. He is great with the little ones..recently was given a drum set..oh my.

Mandi (11) is back to school as well. She is a great mommy's helper, and especially adores little Lacey. She is just precious, and enjoys all things girl! Hoping to get her in piano lessons very soon.

Jed (3) is a little monkey and so smart. Hard to believe his early health problems. Sweet as a pancake! He knows most of the 10 Commandments, is learning his ABC'S, sings JESUS LOVES ME and alot of other things, too! (All 3 of my littles are learning THE PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE in our little homeschool preschool).

Lacey (2) update above!

Jefferson Davis(1) smart, cute, a little mean, but so special! He's talking really good. I think he looks more like his daddy than any of them. He loves to play with my hair (and poor Naomi's, too!) He's also a keeper!

And me..I am busy being a wife and mom to this precious family God has given me.( It's a big job, isn't it?!) And  am amazed at the mighty power of God.

Well, time is running out and I have a busy day ahead of me. Thanks for dropping by to "see" us! I'll keep trying to get in here more often..

He needs water, too!

Wisdom is the principal thing: therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding. Proverbs 4:7


Oh my, do my little ones keep me laughing. Yesterday I looked over and Jed was trying to put a little toy cowboy into my water bottle. After I asked him to stop he replied, "Water's good for him, too!"

We are doing fine. Keep so very busy, about like everybody else! Nikki brought me home a good size box of cucumbers, so I will be canning pickles this week. My friend, Emily, is sharing several heads of cabbage with me, so I will be putting up kraut, too. It will be so nice to have lots of home canned food this winter, for sure!

Our garden is really pretty.We planted lots of corn..hope the critters don't get it. If anyone starves here in SW Virginia, I can't imagine how! We have lots of green beans to go pick at  a friend's garden in Russell County next week. There is so many different varieties of beans here in the south. And I might have some apples coming my way to make applesauce with. God always provides!

I have thought lately about how much an encouraging word can make a difference in a person's life. I have a couple of "cheerleaders" in my life that I am ever so grateful for. I read somewhere once that for every correction you give your child, there should be 10 praises. If we could all get a hold of that, wouldn't the world be a better place? My Great-Aunt Bertha is especially like that. She is now 90 years old, and still sends the sweetest homemade cards and letters you ever saw. She's so sweet. She has encouraged me when it felt like all the world was against me. Everyone needs an Aunt Bertha in their life!

Have a great day. If your mother is still living, call her and tell her you love her today. :) Life is short!

Nikki is 22 today!

NIKKI ON THE RIGHT AT AGE 11

And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 2 Corinthians 12:9

Thought I'd stop in for awhile..it's been too long! So much has happened..Naomi and Daniel graduated from high school, Naomi turned 17, Mandi turned 11, Nikki is now 22, my mom and dad came out for the graduation and a visit, meeting three new grandchildren (2 of my little ones and one of my sister's!), Courtney bought her first car... My goodness, things happen so fast.

The little ones are so precious and learning much everyday. They bring us so much joy! They will be 2,3,and 4 in September and October. They keep us laughing, and they love to make messes for us, and I wouldn't trade any of them for all the riches in the world!

It's such a blessing to have the garden producing now! I guess somehow we didn't plant any zucchini. Oh well,  living out here in farm country if you don't lock your car doors, folks will fill them with zucchini, so we should be ok!!

It's amazing that Ted and I have been parents for 22 years. The Lord has been so good and faithful to us. I remember where I was this day 22 years ago! Nikki has been a precious daughter. She's never given us a bit of trouble, and we are so happy that she still choses to be home with us. :) Lacey absolutely adores her, and she, Lacey.

Well, I need to get a few more minutes of sleep before the littles wake up! Please remember us when you prayer.

Love,

Kim

                                              

Senior Pictures

Ramp season in full swing

We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers; 1 Thessalonians 1:2

Oh boy, are we ever in ramp season! (A ramp is a wild onion that grows around these parts.) Yesterday was spent cleaning them, making ramp pickles, ramp compound butter, slicing and freezing ramps to have when the season is gone, dehydrating ramps..those of you who have had them can pretty well guess what our home smells like at the moment! Oh my..and my hands.

I had a cute story to tell about Lacey,2. She was being a little mean to me, and I said, "Lacey, don't be hateful to Mommy!" She said to Nikki, "I'm being hateful to Mommy!" in a sweet little voice. Nikki told her not to be hateful to Mommy, to which she replied, "Pleeeease can I be hateful to Mommy?" Oh, did we laugh.

The Lord has been faithful to us through the years, for which I am so thankful. I have been thinking more and more these days about following Him, wish I would have done so much more, prayed more. Sometimes we get so caught up in the here and now, we lose sight of the fact that there truly is so much more to life than the one we live in now. If you've never asked the Lord Jesus into your life, I beg you not to put if off another day. It is the most important decision you'll ever make in your life.

Jed's little dumplins..

NIKKI, COURTNEY, AND NAOMI

Be ye therefore ready also: for the Son of man cometh at an hour when ye think not. Luke 12:40

Jed was so adorable the other day at the park. (The little guys call it the "fark".) We stopped to play after a long church service and drive. My friend Jo was there, and he came up to us with the biggest grin. He was telling her how sick he'd been the nigh before, to which she replied he looked happy now. He points to his cheeks and said, "Look at my cute little dumplins!" (His word for dimples.) And he just stood there with the cutest ear-to-ear grin you've ever seen. Oh, did we laugh!

We have had some hot and humid weather. I look so forward to the garden this year, but oh, not the heat and humidity.

Please remember the family of Ted's cousin Amy Arrington -Spotswood in your prayers. It will be a year of the 25th of April since her going on to Heaven. She left behind 3 precious girls and parents who miss her so much. They are on my heart these days.

It's been a good week!

JED AND CALEB

I write unto you, little children, because your sins are forgiven you for his name's sake. 1 John 2:12

It's been a pretty uneventful week, for which I am so thankful!! The Lord is so faithful. I had three specific answers to prayer, and that meant so much. A couple of my friends with heavy burdens had them lifted, and I am so glad about that.

I went up to Amish country to get milk and eggs yesterday with Naomi and Lacey, and that was really fun. The Amish have a little store there, and they are always so friendly and helpful. It's neat to see the horses and buggies, even the state has horse and buggy warning signs for caution! I wish I could take some pictures, but they are against pictures of themselves.

JEFFY'S BATH

Well, my Jed is up so I'd best go for now. Have a great weekend!

Sorry it's been awhile!

Our internet connection went down in February for about two weeks, and I got out of the blogging habit! Other things easily fill my day!

We are doing really well around here, for which I am thankful. It seems to be getting more rare to find us all at home at the same time, which is an adjustment, for sure! Even now Nikki is in another state with some of the girls she will be fellow counselors with for an upcoming camp. Lacey misses her so much, and so does Mom!

Please remember our friend Bill in your prayers. He got some news at the doctor the other day that wasn't good to hear, and there is a possibility of cancer.

The Lord has blessed us in so many ways. I am thankful for a good family. I think of a song the kids used to sing. The chorus went like this:

There's a roof up above me,
I've a good place to sleep.
There's food on my table,
And shoes on my feet.
You gave me your love, Lord,
And a fine family.
Thank you, Lord, for your blessings on me.

Caleb is doing some yard work for a sweet neighbor who has been battling cancer. She has such a thankful attitude in life that I've rarely seen. In four months time she buried two of her three children (they were each grown with 2 little ones at home) during the time she was caring for both of her aging bedridden parents. She took care of her parents for 14 years, until they both passed on. She moved in with her son-in-law during that time to help him with the grandchildren for quite some time. Her husband died also during this time. There were other relatives close to her she also lost during this time. During her cancer treatments, she lost her hair and her teeth..her hair is growing back beautifully, but now she doesn't have teeth. And she says, "I still have so much to be thankful for." She's so precious. Even now in her feeble health she makes the most beautiful quilts!

On another note, Ted recently mentioned killing a groundhog. Jed said, "Don't kill my grandma. She's my bestest friend!" Ted said back to him, "I didn't, I said a groundhog, and I thought I was your best friend." Jed said, "No, Grandma is my bestest friend!" He calls a groundhog a groundbob. 


These little ones are growing so fast. I no longer have any tiny ones. We were out playing in the garden spot which is just mud, and I mentioned to the little ones I will get them some rubber boots so they won't get their John Deere boots so filthy. Jed said, "You're gonna buy me rubber boots?" and Lacey said, "You're gonna buy me some wubbew boots?" and Jefferson, 17 months, not to be left out said, "I boots?" We all have so much fun with them! We love our babies so much.

Mandi and Lacey with Mr. Golden Arches!

Well, Miss Naomi is up and going off to spend the day with a friend, so off to life I must go. I've got some cute pictures..oh no, I just realized Nikki has my camera at camp. But I hope to get ya some in here soon! Have a blessed days!

Busy day..

Where there is no vision, the people perish, but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.  Proverbs 29:18


 We seem to keep plenty busy, and most everyone else I know does, too. It seems none of us ever have much extra time on our hands, doesn't it? The precious older folks in our lives are the ones that seem to have more time, and us younger ones don't visit as much as we used to. A good friend of mine is now, along with her oldest daughters, sitting with her mother around the clock. She loves her so much, and is enjoying the opportunity. What a testimony to us all.

We ministered in song at two churches on Sunday. Both services went very well, and I believe the Lord blessed. Good meetings! I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to serve with my family in this way for almost 7 years now. So many memories, and it has kept us all together. We have met folks we never would have met, including many long lost relatives. As the older kids journey down their own paths, I don't know how much longer we will be able to play together, but I am cherishing the moments these days! I am praying about one more recording. It's been over 3 years since we last recorded, and I sure would love it! Also, we have had many requests for a new one.

Have a great day! I need to get a few things done before my day gets ahead of me, and the little ones arise!

Almost February already?!

 DANIEL AT THE SMYTH COUNTY JAM

photo taken by Sandy Hogston

And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down,and when thou risest up. Deuteronomy 6:7

Above is a picture of Daniel doing what he loves best, playing music! I had the opportunity to go with the oldest three kids the other night to the jam. It was great. Having the three little ones at 1,2,and 3, we don't go out as much as we used to as a family.

Sunday morning we'll be at Goodman's Chapel here in the valley, and Sunday night at the Union church there in Midway..the name escapes me at the moment, but I'll get it in here. I'm looking forward to it! Sunday morning at the chapel they are serving breakfast at 9, then we'll do the service at 10. So if you're not committed elsewhere, come on!

I am looking for a Suzuki music instructor in the area. If anyone knows of one, please let me know!

Reflections

CALEB ON CHRISTMAS

just coming down with chickenpox

        I do have pictures of him on his birthday, feeling much better! I'll try to ask Naomi to help me get them loaded on to the computer. He's grown up so fast. He had a nice birthday, and I think between us and the grandparents, he was happy with his birthday gifts! Caleb just might love listening to music more than anyone in the family, which is a lot! He is expressing an interest in learning the bass. He is quick to pitch in with the little guys when the girls are gone, for which I am so thankful!

I've been thinking of the children growing up, and the new season in my life I am just entering. As I have offspring ranging from ages 1-21, my life is full of diversity! (And a bit of adversity, too, though I wouldn't change it if I could! :) ) I am a blessed woman. I have much to be thankful for.

Well, again, happy birthday to Caleb. We love you so much!

Caleb turned 14 yesterday!

I brought Caleb to the library for awhile. The kids called to say the power was out..not again! Dinner was in the oven, not yet cooked. Got to stop at Wal-Mart for flashlights before heading across the mountain.

Yesterday was Caleb's birthday. We are so thankful for him! We had pizza, salad, cake and ice cream. So good! He had a good day, and is anxious to spend his birthday money! Well, off to Wallyworld!!

Friday is payday!!

TED AND JED 12/10

And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness; for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth. Luke 12:15

Today will be a busy day, but one I look forward to! 

I was excited to find a few years' TASTE OF HOME cookbooks at a junk store. ($2 each, I love a bargain!) We have been enjoying trying new recipes. One of my goals this year is to try a new recipe every week. I have several cookbooks, but I seem to always go back to the same recipes, it seems. It's fun to have girls who are interested in cooking, too. They have all been doing baking recently. Nikki made all of our Christmas goodies this year! I tell ya, this is great!

Caleb will be 14 on Monday! He is so grown up these days. Poor guy got the worst case of chicken pox and was so sick for awhile. I am thankful he's better now..just traces of the pox, but doing so well.

I understand the temperature is supposed to get into the 40's this weekend. It's only about 7degrees this morning, so that will feel good. 

We will be playing a Christmas show on January 30 at 11am at the Goodman's Chapel. We had to cancel due to the stomach flu and chicken pox, and they still wanted Christmas music, so come on out if you'd like to hear a little Christmas music. They are serving breakfast at 9. We are looking forward to it!

Well, I am hoping to get a couple of letters written before babies wake up so I'd best go for now. Have a great day!

Love,

Kim

Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow..

JED TAKING A "SLEIGH" RIDE (last month)

For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. Luke 12:34

Speaking of treasures, I pray they will always be my family. I love the picture of Jed above. He loves the snow! I am glad the Lord gave us these children to serve and love and raise for Him. May they always find the peace that comes from walking with Jesus. Love your children..they are precious.

I received a call last night from Ted's grandmother's best friend, Launa. She is 90 years old. She and her husband, Vee, celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary last month. They still live in their own home. (I think Vee is 93 years old.) Vee makes beautiful guns. They have so much snow on their mountain that they hadn't gotten mail in a week, and the postlady brought her my letter on foot yesterday. She was so happy to hear from me. It blessed me so much to hear from her! 

On another note, Jed, 3, said, "When I get better, I'm gonna take Lacey(2) dancing!" (He is still miserable with the chickenpox.) He is so cute, and very much growing up out of babyhood. I am so thankful the Lord gave us these little ones in our older years. :)

Banjo for sale

NIKKI'S CABIN MATES AT DAUGHTERS OF DESTINY CAMP

OCTOBER 2010  PINNACLE, NC

And my tongue shall speak of thy righteousness and of thy praise all the day long. Psalm 35:28




What a wonderful goal for 2011, to learn to speak God's praise all day long. :) He is worthy and deserves it! It's tough not to get caught up in the world we live in, but I will work on it! He has been so good to me!

Mandi and I just finished reading CHEAPER BY THE DOZEN, written by two of the "dozen" children who grew up in the home. Having a large family, there are obviously some different family dynamics than smaller families have, and there is never a dull moment. It's fun to identify with others! Mandi's favorite part was when one of the girl's boyfriends had written her a love poem, and the younger children got a hold of it, and made up a song with 3 part harmony, then hid in a closet directly under the couch where the young couple was sitting, and sang it with all their hearts. :)

As it states on my post title, Courtney is selling her 2008 Nechville Athena banjo. I will get a picture or two of it in here when the kids get up. Blevins Mandolin and Banjos have blessed her with a beautiful new banjo, and she just doesn't have the need for two banjos. Anyone questions, e-mail her at wrightfamilyband@gmail.com or call at 276.624.0131. It is a very nice banjo, sounds great!

Poor Jed has a worse case of the chicken pox than the other lil guys did. He is pretty miserable. Keep him in your prayers, please. I am so thankful that we're just about done with them!

Thought you might enjoy the picture above of Nikki and her cabin mates from camp. She and Naomi went in October for a week and had a great time. They are hoping to go again this year. All of the girls who attended were homeschooled, so they had much in common. They had a great time!

Have a great day!

Chicken pox strikes again!

Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation. Selah.

Psalm 68:19

I'm so glad the Lord gives us a new day, every morning! I am thankful for all He's done. He does so much more than we know, and I'm glad He watches over us! I, like all of you, I'm sure, have many goals for this fresh new year, and one of them is to be more aware of God in my life, and to pray more. Naomi and I are reading our Bibles through this year. Won't you join us?

Our final family member, Jed, has come down with chicken pox. Hope I'm not repeating myself here, as it has been a couple of days. He seems to be doing pretty good in spite of it, but I know when he says he can't go outside because he's sick, that he means it! (My little three love going outside!)

I guess the weather man is calling for snow for the next 3 days. I hope that means we'll get a lot done around the house. :] (Wright kids, if you're reading, that's a hint!)

Well, off to other duties. Have a wonderful day!

Only 352 days until Christmas!

TED ON CHRISTMAS MORNING

He's so handsome!!

Be ye therefore ready also: for the Son of man cometh at an hour when ye think not. Luke 12:40

That verse above is really something to think about. Sometimes we get so caught up here in this world we live in, that we forget that there's an eternity to face. Do we really live in a way that we would be ready if Jesus should come? Oh me..Lord help us all to do better. To live like we should, to pray like we should, to love you above all else.

We just had a light dusting of snow last night, but it is supposed to come today. I told the little ones we could play in it today. Of course, they are the only ones who are excited about it!

I have made many goals for 2011. Something about a new year, with a clean slate..I hope it will be a good one with lots of memories! I can't help but believe I am living in the best years of my life, when the children are all home. As one of my good older friends said, these are the "never enough" years, when there never seems to be enough time, enough money, etc., but then they are the most fulfilling years, and I want to enjoy them to the fullest!

On a lighter note, Jed told me the other day that him and Jeffy were both boys 'cause they both used sippy cups. (He was quite impressed with his daddy's new sippy cup the other day (stainless steel coffee cup)]!

Well, let's not forget the older people in our lives. They mean so much to us! I need to go and write a couple of letters this morning to some precious older folks in my life, before my three and under crowd wakes up needing Mommy! Have a great day!

100% Chance of snow..

NIKKI GIVING LACEY HER FIRST FIDDLE LESSON ON CHRISTMAS!

But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise: and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty;

And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea,and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are:

That no flesh should glory in his presence.

I Corinthians 1:27-28

It's so quiet this morning. It's peaceful, I guess you could say the calm before the storm. I love having quiet time in the morning. I also enjoy the busy days with the children all around me! I never dreamed the Lord would bless us with such a wonderful family when we started our married life as a couple of 18 year olds! I can honestly say we have grown up with them. 

God willing, both Daniel and Naomi will graduate in June (Naomi a bit early.) I almost feel funny saying I am a homeschooling Mom. Mandi is the only one I help much with anymore! So for the school year 2011-2012, I will only have two officially in Pioneer Christian School, our home school. It blows my mind after so many years! 

Nikki and Courtney are on their journeys to becoming doulas, so they are "back to school" once again, but this time I'm not responsible for their training! It takes about two years to become a certified doula, and I am looking forward to what God will do in their lives. (A doula is a professional labor assistant for childbirth.) 

As for my caption, yes, Ted tells me there is 100% chance of snow tonight and tomorrow. We are not big fans of snow around here. :( Our 3 and under crowd love it, of course, though! So whatever errands need done, it looks like they'd best get done today. Oh, and I am anxious for spring weather! 

I love to hear my children playing music. I live in the right house for that, of course! There is always someone playing something, or singing. I am blessed. I am hoping that someday God gives us a harp, and someone learns to play it. (I realize no one plays the bluegrass harp. :)  ) I love classical music also myself.

Well, you have a great day! May God bless you and keep you, every one. 

COURTNEY THE CHICK-FIL-A CHICK WITH DAILEY AND VINCENT

Nashville October 2010

I couldn't resist grabbing a quick picture of Courtney when I glanced out the window and saw them heading out of their bus back in October. It turned out great for a camera phone! They were very kind to wait patiently for me to take it!

Busy day today so I need to run but thought ya might enjoy..