A Very Special Occasion

Over 18 years ago, when our family found out 3, count them -- 3 precious bundles would be born in the same year, what excitement was everywhere! First would be RG, the first male grandchild and first child of Robert and Katie. Then Callie, Molly and Chris' first baby. Then Gracie would be born the third child of Beth and Eddie. They would be grandchild 3, 4, and 5 (respectively). Oh the joy of that year! They were so different, each bringing amazing things to our family! RG was a big boy (everyone always thought he was older than his actual age) and all boy. Callie was a wisp of a girl, but so vibrant! Gracie was a fluffy butterball with a smile that never left her face.

This Christmas in Arkasouri, we carried out a family tradition started when Kitty and Sarah each turned 18 years old. The parents and grandparents take the 18 year olds to dinner without the other children. It is a wonderful (and emotional) time of recognition of their coming of age. Danny and I like to give something of significance, such as a family heirloom, and each family has its own tradition (well, this is the first for the Stricklens and Millers, but the Dischers have been doing this for a couple of years!)

Granddaddy and Grandmother with RG. What a special young man he has become! The Lord knew exactly what he was doing when he sent RG to our family for such a time as this!

Callie Sue with Granddaddy and Grandmother (and Grandmother's great big ole purse!). She is still a wisp of a girl, but so full of love for the Lord and her family, and so diligent in preparing the skills she will need as a woman of God!

Gracie with Grandmother and Granddaddy. She has certainly outgrown her butterball-ness, and never ceases to amaze us with her talents wisely used for the Lord's purposes and for the benefit of those she loves.

RG with his parents. It is amazing how the Lord places children in the care of the perfect parents for them. Katie and Robert have diligently worked to guide and mold this strong young man of God -- and He will surely do amazing things through RG for His kingdom!

Callie with her parents. Molly and Chris are so different in personality, yet Callie seems to
have both of their strengths! She has already begun influencing those around her for the Kingdom of God, and is becoming such a strong and lovely woman of God.

Gracie with her parents. Beth and Eddie's consistent guidance and direction have given Grace a unique personality and character. Her diverse interests and talents and her graciousness continually delight her grandparents!

Aunt Molly's poignant reflections of the years gone by had us ladies totally choked up! Sorry, y'all -- this is one emotional family, especially remembering three little folks who have made life so wonderful!

Everyone spoke a word of remembrance and admonition to the young adults. My own heart thoughts were, "Never forget who you are. God put you in this family for His own sovereign reason. Acquaintances and even friends may come and go, but your family and your heritage will never change. Remember who you are." God bless you, young adults! His Kingdom will be in good hands when we are gone to Heaven.