Today was Edie Grace’s first day back to school.  She began first grade today and we are happy to report she had a GREAT first day!  Edie Grace told her dad tonight that she was a big girl now because she is “in the grades”…first to be exact.

Last night we attended the orientation and met Edie Grace’s teachers at Pinewood Christian Academy.  We were thrilled to learn that Edie Grace’s teachers were going to be Mrs. Teresa Perkins and Mrs. Lisa Oliver.  Mrs. Perkins and Mrs. Oliver are twin sisters and have been teaching together for years.  For you addicted blogger’s - Mrs. Oliver is a long time client of ours.  Her story touched many of you in the Your Story promotion.  You can click on the link to read the story but to refresh you newbies - she lost one of her sons and her husband within four years in car accidents. 

Isn’t it a very small world?  Edie Grace will learn much this year and will certainly be blessed simply by being in the presence of two incredibly strong, talented Christian women.  I know God has a special blessing in store for all of us with this union.

The pictures included are of Edie Grace at her new desk with all of her new school supplies, modeling her cheerleading outfit at the farm last night for Papa Bob and cousin Sydney and EARLY this morning pictures of our BIG girl heading off to school on the Pinewood School Bus driven by Mrs. Becky Dasher. (A very patient woman!)

Edie Grace, Dad and I are VERY excited about another year of learning in a wonderful Christian environment.  Some of you probably are not aware that Pinewood is DeWayne’s alma mater.  His class was the second class to complete 12 years at the school.  They have come a long way since then.

DeWayne and I have remained very active with Pinewood in hopes that one day - when God blessed us with a child - she would have the opportunity to attend there.

One of the most memorable and special nights of our life was in May of 1999 when then Pinewood Headmaster Dewey Hulsey asked DeWayne to give the commencement address.  Just 15 years earlier - DeWayne had graduated from Pinewood.  It was one of DeWayne’s most memorable and moving speeches.  It was a great honor for him and for me.

Pinewood really has a special place in our heart and lives. 

Edie Grace we are so blessed by you and SO PROUD of you!

Love,

Mom and Dad 

.