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3 Years Tomorrow

March 11, 2024Leave a Comment

The tulip tree we planted in honor of my dad.

Time sure does fly. You blink and a three years has gone by. Tomorrow, March 12 is not only my husband Ron’s birthday but also my dad’s third heavenly birthday. Three years ago tomorrow we took him to the hospital, fully expecting to bring him home. After all, his momma lived to be 101, bouncing back after many trials. It’s true that God’s ways are not our ways. When God calls us home, we will go.

We have handled his loss well because we know we will see him again. It was a “see you later” knowing he is with Jesus now. No more cancer, no more pain. But I sure do miss him.

Today when I was outside changing the garden flags, I walked to the back fence and smile. There in full bloom was the tulip tree we planted almost three years ago in honor of dad. He and mom have a beautiful one and I love their tulip tree. When dad died, I asked Ron if we could plant one. It blooms around the time of his heavenly birthday each year. Our upstate South Carolina soil is red clay. It’s not the best for growing things but we were extra careful mixing in some peat moss and good soil in the large hole we dug. I wanted to make sure it had the best chance of survival. So far so good. Each year it’s grown a bi more and has more blooms. Seeing those blooms today put a smile in my heart.

Grief is the oddest thing. Memories come all the time of treasured moments over the years. I was a “Daddy’s Girl”. I could talk to him about anything and he would listen and give sound advice. He enjoyed a good game of Skipbo with the family. We used to have four generations around the table playing that card game. He and his momma were sharp players and they both played to win. I recently found Skipbo online and downloaded it on my iPad. It’s a fun card game but nothing compares to the memories when we all played it together.

Tomorrow is also food pantry day. Mom and dad both volunteered at the Fort Mill Church of God food pantry for years. Eight years ago I started volunteering with them there. Dad would swing by and pick me up to take me with him and meet Mom there. He would always stop by and get me and mom a cup of tea: sweet for mom and half and half for me. I miss him when we are volunteering. Seems like he should be in the next room praying for the clients as them come in. Mom still does that and I help pack the food boxes.

Most of all I miss the talks. He was a very generous man who loved his family well. His generous spirit and legacy lives on in us all. In honor of my Dad, this blog is for you. Oh and one more thing Dad… Forrest is doing so well and your great grands are showing the Kenley genes. My goodness. When I see pictures of them I see your boy. I know you would love that. Mom sure does. Shes doing very well too, a strong woman. Love and miss you always.

Me and dad on the way to volunteer at the food pantry

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Down a deep rabbit hole

January 31, 2024Leave a Comment

History has always fascinated me. When it comes to family history it becomes personal. It’s just amazing to try tracing your ancestry line. Last October i found the Ancestry App and asked my husband if I could subscribe to research my family tree. I took a deep dive and am still digging.

It’s like going down a deep rabbit hole and it is truly fascinating. The Ancestry App has government census reports, birth certificates, death certificates, marriage and divorce documentation plus more. The thing is, you need names. The further you trace your family from yourself, you start having to make educated guesses. These census papers were handwritten and let me tell you, they didn’t always put the same thing. Sometimes it shows initials with the last name and sometimes it is spelled out. You can match up dates and locations and figure it out the best you can. One of my aunts nieces told me about http://www.find-a-grave.com Sometimes the website will list spouse, parents, siblings and children. The keyword there is “sometimes”. I have found that’s not always true.

On my dad’s side of the family, I’ve been able to trace back to 1777. How cool is that! My great great grandfather was a Captain in the Confederate army. I’ve had to “jump some hurdles” though and it’s been an headache at times. My Nanny Kenley’s dad was called Punk. Nanny’s brother was called Uncle Stumpy. No, those weren’t their real names. I got my mom to look to see if there were any papers and what she gave me “connected a lot of dots”. The names she had given me to enter into the system helped me find the records relating to Nanny’s family. As I searched and found them I said, “BINGO”! Yeah!

On my mom’s side, I’ve discovered much that I didn’t know. My grandmother had 11 siblings. My grandfather had a big family too. It’s kind of sad that they didn’t stay intact. Out of all those great aunts and uncles on my mom’s side, I only knew a couple of them.

On my dad’s side I knew my great aunts and great uncles. Even dad’s cousins and their kids. I love these connection. My husband and I have only one son. I have one brother. It seems we have a real small family. As I have researched, I see the family roots run deep and it’s nice to see that connection. Nanny’s family traces back to Ireland. It looks like mom’s side of the family may have come from France. Im still looking. Hopefully I will be able to print or share the information I’ve found with my brother and cousins. I don’t know if they will be as intrigued as me but I have really enjoyed this search.

In the ancestry file dad had, he had some papers on some of Nanny’s ancestors. There is a story that shows a generous spirit. I love the idea of have a legacy of generosity.

As I’ve made these connections within my family tree, I wonder about their lives. I think about my great great grandfather that fought for our freedom. Freedoms that are being taken away by our present government.

Worry will get us no where though. God is sovereign and I will just continue to pray for His direction. As for me, I hope to pass along a legacy of faith, resilience, love and compassion for others. We are called to humbly love and serve others. Lord help us to do just that and do it for Your glory.

If you liked this blog post please subscribe and share. I’m thankful for this gift to share when God puts something on my heart. You can find my autobiography Rooted by the Water on Amazon. (Hard cover soft cover, and e-book formats.) I pray it gives you great hope and courage to surrender to Jesus. He is all you really need. All for the Glory of God.

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GREATness

January 11, 20243 Comments

You most likely won’t guess the subject of this blog from the title. I won’t keep you in suspense. An old friend of mine that I used to work with calls all her great-nieces and great-nephews , Greatness #1, Greatness #2 and so on. I love her idea and want to use it as well. Wednesday night Greatness #3 was born in our family. I couldn’t be more excited.

Are you wondering why in the world I’m doing such a “happy dance” over here? Here’s the thing, I absolutely love seeing my brother’s family grow! You see, almost four years ago he was diagnosed with acute leukemia and there was so much uncertainty for the future. Although we trusted and continue to trust our Great God who holds our futures.

Today my brother is three and a half years post bone marrow transplant. He and his family went through such an ordeal and he is now thriving! This makes my heart so happy! Not only that , but he got to walk his daughter down the aisle a couple of years ago and he and his wife now have three grandchildren. What a beautiful miracle and to watch it all unfold. I thank God for these beautiful blessings to witness.

If you, your family or someone you know are going through a difficult time, please don’t lose hope. Put your faith and hope in Jesus. He has proven over and over in my life and my family that He is our “Anchor“ that holds us steady in the storms of life. Be blessed and keep trusting Jesus. Keep holding on.

“And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.” Romans‬ ‭8‬:‭28‬ ‭(NLT‬‬)

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Heart full of joy

December 26, 2023Leave a Comment

Candle light service at Fort Mill Church of God. Photo credit Joshua Hinson.

On this day after Christmas, I find myself reflecting. It’s been the perfect day for it, with rain pouring most of the day. It’s kind of like silent pondering after a busy time of celebration.

After almost thirty years of marriage, raising a son who no longer lives at home, Christmas time has changed a bit. This is also our third Christmas without my Dad. He loved this time of year and would have liked that Mom decorated two trees this year. She always does a beautiful job making her house look festive for Christmas.

We never really know how Christmas will unfold even with traditions. The week before Christmas our son was in Florida and we weren’t sure if he would be back in time for our Christmas Eve plans. With adult kids, you never really know how it’s all going to play out. Thankfully our son made it back in town just in time to join us and Grandma for the Christmas Eve candlelight service at Fort Mill Church of God. This was the church we raised Joshua in. We went there for seventeen years.

As we walked in we saw some familiar faces and got a few hugs. I was surprised that we each got a real candle. Mom signed for me. Well she tried her best as the Pastor speaks so very fast. It was an unusual Christmas Eve service but it was so very meaningful. I assumed we would sing the usual Christmas carols and hear the Christmas story. I was so moved by the worship. We gathered to celebrate Jesus birth and the music Pastor led us in beautiful anointed worship of Jesus our King. The Pastor spoke on Revelations 5. He brought it all together from Genesis to Revelations…. JESUS! We had communion then one by one everyone’s candle was lit as we sang O come let us adore Him. It was one of the highlights of this Christmas.

After the service we drove to Waffle House which is our tradition. Why Waffle House? It’s usually the only thing open but the place was packed. We did find a Mexican restaurant close by and had a nice dinner there, enjoying time with Grandma. We usually also ride around to see Christmas lights but Grandma was tired and Joshua was too. After a short visit at her house we headed home. Joshua spent the night with us.

The very best gift was spending time with our son. He always has a friend or two with him so it’s not often to get his undivided attention. Even though he was tired, we talked for hours. It was like old times and it was pure JOY!

Late Christmas afternoon, we went to Grandmas to meet up with my brother’s family and celebrate again. My two year old great niece was there and she brought such joy and smiles. She took her little baby doll into the study room to “change the diaper”. She had her little diaper changing cloth on the floor. As she looked up on the wall, she saw Great Grandpas golf ball collection and she wanted to see a few. Gigi (my Mom) got several down for her. She placed them on her diaper changing cloth. It was so cute. I know my Dad would have loved that. It’s the little things that bring a big smile to my heart.

So this Christmas is a wrap and it’s “one for the books”. It was wonderful! It’s not about the gifts that were exchanged. What made it extra special was the meaningful candlelight service, long talks with our son and time with family. Those things are priceless. My heart is full and I am truly thankful. I pray you all had a wonderful time of celebration and time spent with the special people in yours life.

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A blooming legacy

November 16, 2023Leave a Comment

On this day 110 years ago my Nanny Kenley was born. We were blessed to have her 100th birthday party in the church she went to for the longest time. She passed away at the beginning of 2015 at the age of 101.

Nanny was such a remarkable woman. She loved her family and her family loved her. We have a family text group with 26 people. Today the cousins were talking about her special day: sharing pictures, memories and a video that warmed our hearts. Some of my fondest memories as a child were with her, at her house with all the cousins.

I’ve been doing some searching on Ancestry, trying to put our family tree together. From what I have gathered it looks like she married my grandfather on March 31, 1935. They had three boys in 11 years. My grandfather died at the age of 43. She never remarried because she said she wouldn’t be able to find someone like my grandfather. It takes a strong woman to raise three boys. Her legacy continues to live on in her remaining son, grand children, great grand children and great great grandchildren. It’s such a beautiful thing when we all remember her so fondly.

Nanny was a strong, independent, fun loving lady, and an excellent cook. No body made biscuits like our Nanny. Family meals, Christmas Eve and Easter at Nanny’s were the best. Good food, fellowship and lots of laughter come to mind when I think of her. She was so active. She loved card games and had a sharp mind. In her later years, we would sit around my parents kitchen table, four generations playing Skipbo. She would never let you win. She played well and it was so much fun.

The last few years of her life she lived at a rehab/long term care facility. We would race her down the hallway in her wheelchair. She would get her hair done and put her powder and lipstick on for meals. She loved to dress nice and play games with the other residents. There was a nice window near her bed and she would keep her plants there. There was also a bird feeder outsider her window where she enjoyed watching the birds. I have her cactus which is blooming right now for her birthday. This year it is full of buds that are beginning to open. It always makes me smile when it blooms. Just like her rich beautiful legacy of a life well lived and full of loving memories, that cactus grows bigger each year with more blooms. Tomorrow I will be going up to our attic to bring down Christmas things. I will hang the stocking she made for me when I was a little girl. She started with my name and apparently ended with someone else’s. It says “Sharrot” on my stocking. I have never had it fixed because it is what she made and it is extra special.

So today we celebrate our Nanny. She’s been gone for almost 8 years, but her legacy lives on. She continues to bless us even though she is gone. That’s a life well lived when your legacy continues to BLOOM.

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Fall Family kayak venture

October 9, 2023Leave a Comment

Ron, me and Joshua kayaking at Lake Wylie.

A couple of days ago my husband Ron and son Joshua humored me by agreeing to a Fall afternoon of kayaking. We had not seen Joshua in over a week but he had the day off and agreed to join us. I was so excited; a few hours doing one of my favorite things with my favorite guys.

This was our first time going as a family. I had gone with Ron once and had gone with Joshua once, but since we just have two kayaks we borrowed one from a friend. It was a beautiful sunny Fall day with a slight breeze. This may have been our last paddle of the season because the next night temperatures dipped down into the 40’s.

How can I describe the sheer joy and happiness those few hours brought me? Being on the water is so relaxing, especially when there aren’t many boats out. The beauty of nature with the sun shining and breeze tickling my skin makes me smile from my heart. What a feeling! The sky was reflecting off the calm water. We didn’t talk that much out on the water. I did wear my old cochlear implant processor though. We would paddle a ways then pull together for a water break and to chat a bit.

I found out later that neither of them had wanted to go but they both knew how much I love it and they wanted to do it for me. I am thankful for these two. Joshua has grown up and Ron has been having some health issues over the summer. Relaxing times with just the three of us doesn’t happen often but it sure did bring joy to my heart and they both ended up having a good time. I do believe they will do it again next season. I think the trick to drawing them will be finding new interesting places to explore and catching Joshua when he’s not busy.

Live in the moment and cherish times spent with those you love. Tomorrow is not promised. If you liked this blog post please subscribe and share. I’m thankful for this gift to share when God puts something on my heart. You can find my autobiography Rooted by the Water on Amazon. (Hard cover soft cover, and e-book formats.) I pray it gives you great hope and courage to surrender to Jesus. He is all you really need. All for the Glory of God. Be blessed!

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Picture in my pillow

August 29, 2023Leave a Comment

Yesterday while changing the sheets I felt the rectangular shape inside the lining of my pillow. Several years ago I put a picture inside the lining of my pillow. (I honestly don’t remember exactly when I did it.) Yesterday when I was changing the sheets I decided to open the pillow liner and see which picture it was. Lo and behold, it was was our son Joshuas “Identi-Kid” 2009 id from elementary school. No, it hasn’t been in my pillow liner for that long. I guess I picked that one because as an id, it’s thicker and would last longer than a normal picture.

You might be wondering why in the world I did that and it’s still in there. Hear me out! I strongly believe in prayer! You could even label me a“radical prayer warrior”. You wouldn’t be far from the truth. Truth be told, when I wake up at night and feel that picture, I pray for our son.

Just yesterday I saw an Instagram video story of him and a friend in Florida in the Atlantic Ocean. He’s helping a friend move back to Charlotte. You know Hurricane Idalia is brewing off the gulf coast of Florida. I showed my husband Ron the video and asked if it was Joshua and his friend and he said it was. I texted him and said, “I saw that video. Isn’t the surf rough? Looks very rough!” I was relieved when he responded, “Yes it was rough but it was fun.” I texted back, “Y’all are crazy! Be safe!” He replied, “You know it!”

He is ALL boy! I could tell you some nerve wracking stories. Some good and some I want to forget. Always seeking one adventure or another. As a mom of course I worry. Over the last twenty five years, I’ve learned that worrying does nothing but prayer changes things. He told me this summer that I’m a little over the top. I bet deep down in that tough guy but sweet heart of his, he’s glad he’s got a praying momma.

Im going to keep that picture in my pillow. When I feel it at night, I will continue to lift up a prayer for our son. As parents we can’t always be there physically but our Abba Father sure can. I found the perfect little sign a while back. It says “Give it to God and go to sleep”. It’s the perfect reminder for me.

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He freed the “Bird”

July 12, 2023Leave a Comment

Smiling BIG as I type this blog. Most people probably won’t get it, but that’s okay. I live with low vision and hearing issues and it can be confining. You might be wondering, how so? Since I can’t see far I am limited in independence. When I want to go somewhere I have to wait until it’s convenient for someone else. My family and friends are great but I don’t really like to ask. I’ve learned to be content. Sure, there is Uber but you need to know the make of cars and see the license plates. I couldd just envision myself getting in the wrong car, so I will pass on that idea. I’m not sharing this for pity or anything like that. I’ve learned to appreciate what’s important in life and be content. It can seem confining though, almost like a “bird in a large cage”. That gets me back to my BIG smile.

A few years ago I rediscovered kayaking while at the beach with some friends. I learned as a kid at camp. At the beach we kayaked in the intercostal waterway in both a two person kayak and a one person kayak. Both are fun but I love the adventure and independence of being on my own. I can see enough to do it. Sure I have to be cautious, but that’s part of the fun.

A few weeks ago, my husband Ron bought us two Pelican sit on top kayaks. I was so excited and couldn’t wait to try them out. Early last evening we took them out to Lake Wylie and he set me free! Have you ever smiled so deeply it was from your heart? I laughed and smiled and laughed some more. I paddled ahead of him, lost sight of him and circled back until I found him again. ( He could see me.) He even enjoyed it and wants to go again. Our son Joshua said he wanted to go with me soon. It was pure bliss to be free on the water with the sun setting and the beauty of Gods creation. I wore my old Niada cochlear implant processor so I could hear any approaching boats, then I would watch the water for wakes. It worked out great! It feels like Christmas in July. So thankful that my husband wants me to experience what I enjoy and do it with me. Here’s to hopefully many more adventures.

If you liked this blog post please subscribe and share. I’m thankful for this gift to share when God puts something on my heart. Speaking engagements are always welcome. It God opens a door, He will give me what’s needed to walk through it. You can find my autobiography Rooted by the Water on Amazon. (Hard cover soft cover, and e-book formats.) I pray it gives you great hope and courage to surrender to Jesus. He is all you really need. All for the Glory of God. Be blessed!

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29 Years Strong

May 1, 2023Leave a Comment

A cord of three is not easily broken (Ecclesiastes 4:12) As we sat in church yesterday morning I thought about how we were at the very same church 29 years ago exchanging our wedding vows. Twenty nine year of being together through thick and thin, serving the same Lord Jesus Christ that keeps us together.

A cord of three: husband, wife and Jesus, is not easily broken. It takes a lot of love, grace, forgiveness, humor and a whole lot of prayer. I’m thankful God brought me and Ron together all those years ago. He’s been a tremendous support to me and our son. We are blessed to have each other. We are not perfect, each having our short comings. The thing is, we never throw in the towel. We don’t esteem ourself above each other. We made a promise before God 29 years ago and we are determined to keep our promise to each other and God.

Marriage works with JOY. You might be thinking, what in the world is she talking about. Everyday of marriage is not joyous. Give me just a minute to draw this picture. J =Jesus, O=Others, Y=Yourself. If we put Jesus first then our spouse second, things will fall into place.

Marriage is like a thrilling rollercoaster. There are some unforgettable times of joy and excitement. There are also some scary and troubling times when you can’t see how things will work out. But God! God is the third cord that keeps us together. He is the glue that holds, when everything seems to be falling apart. He is our compass that keeps us moving in the right direction together. It’s not easy but it’s worth it. Our love has been tested by trials and is stronger today than it’s ever been. I’m thankful in those tough times we didn’t give up. We pushed through it together. A strong marriage is worth fighting for.

Happy anniversary Ron. I am proud to be your wife. You never meet a stranger. You share the love of God everywhere you go and it’s a marvel to see God working through you. I love you and look forward to celebrating many more years together.

If you liked this blog post please subscribe and share. I write when God puts something on my heart. You can find my autobiography Rooted by the Water on Amazon. I pray it gives you great hope and courage to surrender to Jesus. He is all you really need. All for the Glory of God. Be blessed!

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Thankfully it got better

April 24, 20231 Comment

Today was an impromptu family day. We have a tiny family of three with me being the only girl. Our son Joshua called saying he was off and wanted to see if we wanted to go to a shooting range out in the country. I’ve only been to an indoor range but never one outside. Ron loaded up the gear and we took off for an adventure on this gorgeous Spring day.

We arrived at the outdoor range to find it was closed today. That was a bummer since it was so nice outside. The guys decided to go to an indoor shooting range. I’ve only gone once before and that was about five years ago. I remember the shock of how powerful the explosions sounded with gun powder and shells flying. Lord have mercy! I don’t mind doing things with the guys. We’ve gone fishing, four wheeling, rock climbing, jet skiing, zip lining and so much more.
Truth be told, shooting guns is not my “cup of tea”. I would bait a fishing hook any day over shooting guns. However I was a good sport since I love my guys and spending time together doesn’t happen as often as I’d like.

Once we got to the indoor range, we were the only three people shooting at first. Some were leaving as we arrived. I noticed a sign as we were entering that said “No rapid fire”. No problem from me. The guys got the targets set up and Ron loaded a gun for me. Just like last time, it scared the daylights out of me. My cochlear implant processor was off and I had double ear protection on and it was STILL LOUD! This time I expected the gun-smoke and flying shells but it still scared me. Joshua took a video of me shooting and thought it was funny. Another guy had come in and was shooting a few spaces down from us. In the video you can hear rapid gun fire and I pause looking over thinking; Can’t the guy read the sign? I finished my second round and told Ron I was finished and would watch the rest of the time. This will never be my sport. Put me on the lake doing whatever water sport any day but I don’t care for shooting guns. I did pretty well my second round and hit the red part of the target twice. Not too shabby.

Our next stop was a tractor supply store. I’ve only been to one once before and I remembered seeing baby chickens so I went in search to see if this location had any. Sure enough they had some bins of baby chickens under warm lights. Too bad our home owners association won’t let people have them in our neighborhood.

We ended our family day at Papa Docks for dinner on the deck overlooking Lake Wylie. It used to be T Bones at the lake and we have many memories from going there and riding our old sea-doo around that area. It was a nice ending to our impromptu family day. I’m happy we can still have fun family days with just the three of us. Our son is now 25 so the family days don’t happen as often but when they do, it’s a real treat. Cherish your family times and don’t be afraid to do guy things with the guys. I came across a Helen Keller quote recently that is fitting for this moment: Avoiding danger is no safer in the long run than outright exposure. The fearful are caught as often as the bold.

If you liked this blog post please subscribe and share. This was not my usual blog post but a fun glimpse at a day in my life. You can find my autobiography Rooted by the Water on Amazon. I pray it gives you great hope and courage to surrender to Jesus. He is all you really need. All for the Glory of God. Be blessed!