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posted by David on 09/21/11

       It was such a change from earlier that day to be standing on the volleyball court, feeling the mud ooze around my feet, and knowing that there were no more verses required to be memorized before the end of the day. It was the evening after the local Bible Bee competition, and what could be better for celebrating the completion of three intense months than a game of volleyball with the family?

       The week after the competition we plunged back into our schoolwork. However, I found it incredibly difficult to make time in my schedule for reading, memorizing, and studying Scripture. I was surprised at how much discipline it takes! These past few weeks I have begun to realize the importance of being faithful on a daily basis. Even though I don’t have as much time to spend in God’s Word, this doesn’t mean that I should not spend any time at all. Whether it be in the morning, evening, or both, the time is there. This came as a great refreshment for me. So, don’t stop now, continue on, and be not weary in well doing! 

       Like a rocket, the Bible Bee has launched us above the pull of earth’s gravity, and now by God’s grace we can easily reach far beyond. For me, the contest may be over, but the Bible Bee is not! The temporary goal of the local competition has been reached but the living relationship with God is something I continue to grow in every day.

 

“And these words,
which I command thee this day,
shall be in thine heart”
(Deuteronomy 6:6).

 

An effective and fun memory passage review tool that I would heartily recommend is www.memverse.com

8 Comments » | posted in Family News, Tidbits

posted by David on 05/18/11

Predicted showers were short. Instead of a hindrance to the event, storm clouds became a perfect backdrop. Then suddenly a crack like thunder sounded—FROM JUST BESIDE ME!

I turned to see a smoking cannon. I was shocked. We were standing by a field witnessing the reenactment of a Civil War Battle for the 150th commemoration of the War’s beginning. It was also in the spring that West Virginia became a State 148 years ago.

With white tents dotted across the hillsides and smoking wood fires interspersed among them, it felt exactly like we had gone back to the time of the Civil War. The realistic-looking tents were also waterproof, which allowed the reenactors to actually camp for the three days of the event. Wood was split and stacked by the tents. Horses came and went among the regiments. Cannons were positioned on the surrounding hill. The reenactors not only impersonated the generals and captains but doctors and nurses, blacksmiths, tailors and spies. Every uniform was made with historical accuracy in mind. It was amazing!

They used the uniforms and equipment of the soldiers on the battlefield and the day-to-day work clothes worn in the camp. For example, the  blacksmith, hammering at the forge wore a loose long-sleeved white  shirt. Hoop skirts were everywhere. And hats varied from Abe Lincoln’s top hat to the little forward-facing felt kepis and bummers for the soldiers.

One interesting thing to learn was about the saber. Infantry men carried sharp swords and bayonets for hand-to-hand combat. The cavalry on the other hand were armed with heavy sabers. Saber are not even sharp! They were used to disable opponents on the ground with a direct downward stroke on the collarbone.

The most memorable part of the day was meeting the men who impersonated Jackson, Lincoln and Lee. They looked just like real. We also met a friendly officer by the name of “Extra Billy Smith”. He  impersonated a stagecoach owner and he told us the story of how he got his name, as well as letting us try on his uniform. Each person was knowledgeable—they left no question unanswered. They were friendly  and it was evident they enjoyed their role. It was a great learning experience and fun day together.

2 Comments » | posted in Historical Glimpses

posted by David on 07/3/10

 

 

One Sunday morning soon after sunrise I stepped outside. What I saw brought a tremendous feeling of awe! The scene reminded me of what it is like to live in God’s presence and have nothing hid from Him. Through His Spirit and His word, God wants to show us the right way. May God bless you today with the joyfulness and peace that come as we quench not the Spirit.

8 Comments » | posted in Family News, Photography

posted by David on 12/30/09

Early Monday morning our family headed over to Commodore  Creek for a kayaking escapade. This was the first time in my life that I had ever experienced the thrill of kayaking.

We enjoyed being so close  to God’s fascinating creation. At one point, Robert and I were just a few yards under an Anhinga!

The winding trails through the mangrove trees, the fast-paced races, strategies of nautical combat, and a surprise attack all made for an exciting morning together.

4 Comments » | posted in Family News

posted by David on 10/17/09

One Friday night we were all  wondering what Jonathan would choose to do for his turn on Family  Night.  He surprised us by saying “Let’s play darts!” We all  thought   was a super idea so we ran out to the garage game room where the dart board was that dad had recently mounted on the wall.

As we began the first game we became very grateful for the protective padding around and below the dart board. Despite our lack of practice  however, Daniel actually got a “bull’s eye” on the very first round and Michael got all three so close it caused a shout of exclamation to sound forth from the onlookers. Thank you Jonathan for your thoughtfulness in making it such a surprise!

3 Comments » | posted in Family News