Gettin Real

Hello Again Family & Friends

2011-04-10T15:03:00.004-05:00

Can't believe it's been August since I last made a post on our Family Blog. I guess I have just been keeping everyone updated on Facebook. If you don't have Facebook then it may be time to get it as it's been a great way to stay in touch with family, friends and another way to encourage people and share Jesus! Too much has happened in the last 9 months to write about so you will just have to check the pictures and read the captions. It took me almost the entire day to update so I hope you all enjoy! All I can say is that I am one blessed man and the more I am grateful for all that God has given me the more joy I have. Have you noticed God's blessings in your life lately?

2011-04-10T14:53:00.000-05:00

Get this kid a contract!

2011-04-10T14:51:00.001-05:00

Cash at his first Kinston Indians baseball game with his brother Gray

2011-04-10T14:22:00.002-05:00

We love our Fireman :)

2011-04-10T13:58:00.002-05:00

Graydon the conductor

2011-04-10T13:39:00.002-05:00

At the motocross races

Camping in the living room

Cozy clothes on a lazy Sunday afternoon

Happy 3rd Birthday Graydon!

2011-04-10T13:25:00.004-05:00

You make us so proud son and we are grateful for all the joy you bring into our lives!

2011-04-10T13:07:00.002-05:00

Graydon and his best friend

Really enjoyed having my parents come down to see us in NC to meet Oliver Cash and be there for Graydon's 3rd Birthday

Taken a little nap on the couch

2011-04-10T12:54:00.002-05:00

Graydon and Grampy at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base

We got a tour of the control tower on base, which was pretty impressive.

The White Boys

Grampy and Grammy holding their 8th Grandchild, God is good!

2011-04-10T12:26:00.002-05:00

Leigh Ann Bartlett (Our Worship Pastor's Wife) & little boy Matthew Landon. Can you believe Landon is a month older than our little tank Oliver Cash.

2011-04-10T12:12:00.002-05:00

Bundled up

Sabrina might be telling me something, not really sure what it is though.

This is what happens when you drink too much milk

I think Oliver Cash has something profound to say

First bath

2011-04-10T11:34:00.002-05:00

Brothers. Funny story with this pic, Oliver still had his umbilical cord & Graydon was pretty grossed out by it. We had to put a towel down on Graydon & lay Cash on top of him. Graydon did a great job but only could stand it for about 30 seconds.

Oliver Cash is a natural! Get ready bud to have your pictures taken by your momma the rest of your life :)

Snug as a bug

Brothers

2011-04-10T11:23:00.002-05:00

2011-04-10T10:24:00.002-05:00

Graydon with his new little brother, love this precious picture.

A photographer's work is never done.

The nurses called Oliver little big man in the nursery since he was so much bigger than all the other babies.

2011-04-10T10:08:00.003-05:00

Oliver Cash White born February 7th at 2:40am & coming into this world at 8pounds 9ounces & 22 inches long. I think he is going to be big like his daddy :) He already respects the game of football as he waited to come till after the Big Game was over.

Oliver meets his mommy for the first time

About ready to POP!

2011-04-10T09:57:00.002-05:00

Went bowling as a church staff, fun times, especially after a long morning of meetings.

One of our billboards we put up for Porn Week at our church during Super Bowl week. We talked about the devastation Porn has on a person's life, marriage & family. Amazing on how many people were touched as we confronted this issue & were able to be healed & restored. To look at all the resources that were provided go to www.PornWeekatChurch.com

Graydon shredding his paper jamz before one of our services and rockin the guitar pedal.

2011-04-10T09:54:00.002-05:00

Graydon was playing his guitar during a church service & our Pastor brought him up on stage in front of over 600 people. Maybe that is his debut as a future Worship Leader!

Some of Sabrina's recent work

2011-04-10T09:41:00.003-05:00

A New Years Day Wedding here in NC

Shot this wedding on our actual 5 Year Anniversary

A Wedding we shot in the Florida Keys for a friend of Sabrina's.

Love Fall Pictures

2011-04-10T09:34:00.002-05:00

Our Christmas Card

The ever expanding White Family

2011-04-10T09:23:00.002-05:00

Snowball fight with Grammy Rousay and the family. Graydon wanted to get in some of the action.

2011-04-10T09:10:00.002-05:00

All bundled up

Dressed as an Ohio State Football player for Halloween, of course Graydon will not take any improper benefits from boosters though :)

It's Good!

Grayon loves to ride the public transportation bus around town and for a $1 you can't beat that cheap entertainment.

Baby #2

2010-08-08T14:05:00.003-05:00

Well you guessed it, Sabrina and I are expecting another baby and Graydon is going to be a big brother! Sabrina is 14 weeks and the arrival date is February 2nd. I guess February is a special month for us since Graydon was born on February 26th. We are very excited and can't wait for our family to add one more. We wanted to wait till our first Dr.'s visit and ultrasound to tell everyone. Sorry I haven't posted on my blog for a long time, but with shooting a wedding, starting a new job, a family vacation, and a move across town, it's been a busy summer. I think I made up for it though with all the posts below. Make sure you click older posts at the bottom since not all the recent posts show on the first page. Blessings

37 Years and counting...

2010-08-08T14:01:00.002-05:00

This is a special gettin REAL to my parents and my in-laws. They both recently celebrated their 37th wedding anniversaries, my in-laws on June 12th (great day by the way!) and my parents on June 24th. There is something to be said about sticking it out through the wonderful and difficult times. The older Sabrina and I get the more we seem to love our parents even more and appreciate all that they have done for us time and time again. I think being a parent yourself makes you see your parents in a whole different light. I look at baby pictures of Graydon and get choked up to see how fast he has grown in 2 ½ years. I can only imagine how much our parents cherish every single memory that they have with their children and grandchildren the older they get.

In June my entire family, all 15 of us, went to Walt Disney World. This is a special place for our family as we have been there many times through the years. This was also special since it had been our first family vacation in almost 20 years together. It brought back a lot of memories from when I was a kid and my mom was amazed at what I remembered. It was a joy to see my parents interact with my son Graydon. Their generosity to my siblings and I have provided wonderful memories for not only us, but now to our own kids. Mom and Dad, I love you both more than you will ever know and I am one of the most blessed men on this earth to have such loving parents that have believed and supported me every step of the way.

Now to my in-laws, not only am I blessed to have such great parents, but to have in-laws who love and support you is incredible. We moved to NC almost a year ago and my in-laws said that we could stay with them so we could get established here in Goldsboro. I think they said yes because there was a cute little boy that came with the package. We told them that it would only be for a couple of months…well a couple of months turned into 10 months. The great thing is we all still like each other and enjoy being around one another☺ We did get our own place last month and I think everyone misses seeing each other in many ways. I do not know how Sabrina, Graydon and I would have made it here this first year without the both of you. Mom and Dad Rousay, you extended your home to us and made us feel like it was our home as well. I know at times it wasn’t always easy having 3 more people in the house, but we made the best out of it and all grew closer together. You both continue to give and give and we are so very grateful for your lives. Mom and Dad White and Mom and Dad Rousay, because all of you have chosen Christ, your spouse and to let love overcome, a great legacy is being made!

2010-08-08T12:38:00.001-05:00

Mom Esther and Dad George White

Mom Debbie and Dad Bob Rousay

Kinston Indians Game

2010-08-08T12:35:00.001-05:00

Can't beat free tickets from your sister and brother-in-law and spending $10 total on concession food!

2010-08-08T12:33:00.000-05:00

2010-08-08T12:30:00.000-05:00

Trip to Disney World with the whole family

2010-08-08T11:02:00.002-05:00

Graydon and Poppa

Graydon and Grammy

Our dear friends Jim and Sue Everett who helped get us some great deals. We love you guys so much and thanks for everything!

The only good pic of all the grandkids together

2010-08-08T10:56:00.001-05:00

Watching the Fireworks display at Epcot

2010-08-08T10:48:00.002-05:00

Gavin's light sword

Gracie sweaty, but still happy

What's up Pop

Momma and me

2010-08-08T10:39:00.002-05:00

Summer Girl watching the Mickey Show

Georgie eating ice cream

Relaxin with my sister Chrissy and Gavin

2010-08-08T10:33:00.002-05:00

Stroller parking

Chillin after a long day

Eatin a strawberry waffle

Riding dumbo, we waited in line with George, Kristen and their family for almost an hour at 10am in the morning.

Takin a boat to get to the other side of Epcot

2010-08-08T10:24:00.003-05:00

Ridin Test Track, my dad impressed me with coming on that and Space Mountain with us

Nemo's nemesis

Graydon and Momma on the Merry-go-round

Graydon's favorite ride of the week...the bus

Watchin Muppets in 3D

2010-08-08T10:17:00.002-05:00

Christian and Summer

Princess Gracie

It's A Small World

Monorail

Lunch at Brown Derby, one of my favorite places to eat

2010-08-08T10:10:00.002-05:00

G and Momma sittin on Lightin McQueen

Lightning and Nader

This little boy's name was Graydon too. It was the first time we had ever meant another Graydon in person.

Graydon at the ESPN field

Gray and I took a little trip over to the ESPN Sports Complex, it was mammoth

2010-08-08T09:56:00.002-05:00

The Grand Floridian one of our favorite places we used to stay as a family

Little Morocco in Epcot, a place near and dear to our hearts

Mint Tea poured the traditional Moroccan way

2010-08-08T09:44:00.002-05:00

Sabrina actually has a viking princess in her lineage, that's pretty hot!

Eatin a pretzel in Germany

China

2010-08-08T09:40:00.001-05:00

Swimmin with Daddy

Ready to head to the parks

2010-08-08T09:09:00.002-05:00

A Big Big Wheel

We used to have this Mickey phone, but in a much smaller size

Movin in for the week

Pop Century Hotel where we stayed

Military Appreciation Day at The Air Force Base that our Church put on

2010-08-08T08:09:00.002-05:00

Seymour Johnson Air Force Base here in Goldsboro, NC

Troops getting some lunch

2010-08-08T07:49:00.002-05:00

Soldier taking a swing trying to ring the bell

RESPECT

Some of the best elephants ears I have had in a long time

Matt Bartlett Band

Our Mime Team

2010-08-08T07:17:00.001-05:00

“Pastoring Again”

2010-05-25T08:44:00.002-05:00

I recently just completed my Chaplain Internship at Wayne Memorial Hospital. 300 hours of clinicals being on the hospital floors visiting patients, families, staff and a 100 hours of class time have better equipped me to minister to people. I will still continue being a volunteer associate chaplain at the hospital. I learned so much during these past 4 months with this experience, but here are a few things that stick out.

-Life can be messy and complicated especially when it comes to people’s pain, suffering and emotions
-My relationship with God has become more authentic and honest
-Even in the midst of heartache, confusion and death, God is still good
-You can never give your wife and child too many hugs and always make sure they feel loved and valued
-Appreciate the experiences before you that are helping to shape and grow you

I was offered two residency positions at hospitals which were very encouraging as my gifts were affirmed. After several weeks of looking at all my options on what to do and sitting in silence before God, I felt a peace about taking a part-time position at a church. I am now the first Campus Pastor at The Bridge Church here in Goldsboro which just started a couple of years ago. I will oversee pastoral care, follow-up, and our leadership and ministry teams. The Bridge Church has several hundred people attending our Thursday and Saturday services. The Bridge is a part of Whitley Church where we have been attending for the last 3 months and has over a 1,000 people attending on Sunday. It is a very exciting church to be a part of and it amazes us at how much our view of Goldsboro has changed after meeting so many incredible people at Whitley and The Bridge. We have felt very welcomed this first month from staff and others and believe that we are a part of something that is on the verge of exploding in growth. Check out our church websites www.bridgechurch.cc and www.whitleychurch.com

2010-05-22T09:28:00.002-05:00

The Bridge Church got 5 sheet cakes for a welcoming reception they had for us... unfortunately there was a lot of leftovers and we had to finish most of it.

Graydon's 1st haircut

2010-05-22T09:13:00.002-05:00

OK, I have had enough!

Strawberry picking

Mowin with Pa

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2010-05-22T08:34:00.002-05:00

Playing in the puddles

G looks like he's up to something

At the Asheboro zoo with friends

2010-05-22T08:03:00.003-05:00

Train at Kinston Park

Ahoy Matey! On a ship in Wilmington, NC by the beach. Had an interview at New Hanover Hospital that day for their Chaplain Residency Program

Train in Wilmington

At one of the beautiful parks in Greensboro, NC

2010-03-12T08:34:00.002-06:00

Graydon's birthday dinner at Hard Rock Cafe in Myrtle Beach

Graydon loved listening to the live band playing

Krispy Kreme Donuts anyone

Hang on kids

2010-03-12T08:16:00.002-06:00

Visiting Broadway at the Beach

a little piece of heaven on earth

Can you tell someone has been working on their six pack abs

2010-03-12T07:42:00.003-06:00

Birthday Song Video

Graydon's 1st rock video

Future "Rock Star"

Eating birthday cake Mommy made

Opening Birthday Presents

2010-03-12T07:21:00.002-06:00

"Mama's Boy" is an understatement

Sabrina in action

Sabrina and I had a booth set up at a small bridal show. We booked two weddings from it so far and one of them was at the show. She also booked another wedding last week, which makes three, so we are very excited!

Chaplaincy, Residencies, Wedding, Closing, Waitoring…

2010-02-25T15:40:00.007-06:00

Dear Friends, we wanted to give you an update on all that is going on with our family. As most of you already know Sabrina had a miscarriage last month and it was a very sad time, but God's presence has been felt especially through prayers, cards, emails and facebook messages. We continue to learn to appreciate all that God has given us.

A decision has been made to close the Excel Church plant we were a part of, which went into effect on February 1st. This was a decision made by the Church Board and agreed upon by the leadership. In 18 months since the start of Excel, which started before we came, we have not been able to establish a significant core group and at the current pace the work would be financially unsustainable past September. At this point, it is the better part of stewardship to reserve resources for a future plant when the economic climate and other circumstances may be more favorable. 96% of the churches that plant a church in NC do not survive after the first year, so everything has to fall into place with being God led, the right place, time, staff, etc. Our time with excel was a brief 5 months, but we learned some about church planting and made good friends. Lives in the community have also been touched. We want to thank you for your support prayerfully and financially.

Sabrina continues to try and build a clientele here in NC with her photography business. She booked her first wedding in the Carolinas at a recent bridal show that we are really excited about. I have been enjoying the Chaplain Internship at Wayne Memorial Hospital, so much so that I have applied to 5 residency programs throughout the area. So far 3 of the programs still have openings and I am interviewing with two of them in the coming weeks. Doing this chaplaincy at a local hospital has really given me perspective with pain and suffering. I am learning that a person's presence can say more than words often can. That it is often better to say less than too much and sometimes you just have to get in the ditch with people. We try and always put a positive spin on things, when life is just down right difficult and painful sometimes. It is hard to feel a sense of helplessness in many of the circumstances I find myself in as a Chaplain, but I am learning to be ok with that.

I am waiting tables part-time at a local Ruby Tuesdays. I have not done that in over 10 years, so I am a little rusty. Make sure if you go to a restaurant you tip your waiters and waitresses well:) I have also been talking to a recruiter from the Air Force Reserves about chaplaincy in the military so we will see if that goes anywhere. Sabrina and I have gotten involved in a local church, which is a growing congregation and we are excited to already have met a lot of young married couples who love the Lord. It’s always an adventure with our family so keep us in your prayers! Love-The Whites

Logo and picture of WMH provided by Google Images. Comments and views posted are solely the opinions of the individual author, and do not represent the opinions of Wayne Memorial Hospital.

2010-01-18T20:14:00.003-06:00

Graydon wearing his new hat and sweater that Grandma Rousay got. I now understand why strangers tell me, "O she's so pretty":)

I also now know why our wife's find my brother-in-law Jon and I irresistible:)

My Hungarian Uncle Steve holding London Grace

2010-01-18T19:05:00.003-06:00

All the grandkids in their Christmas Pajamas

Pajama dance party

2010-01-18T18:33:00.002-06:00

Sienna and her Mommy Kristen

Uncle Jer and London Grace

Summer tickling her sister Sienna

Sucking the thumbs on Christmas morning

2010-01-18T18:18:00.002-06:00

Running out of room on the mantle with the grandkids stockings

Christmas Morning

Grammy and her snuggle bug Sienna

Prime Rib on Christmas morning...a family tradition

2010-01-18T14:21:00.002-06:00

Christmas Eve at my sister Chrissy's house

London Grace looking very pretty in her Christmas dress

Graydon hangin with his cousins Christian and Gavin

2010-01-18T13:36:00.002-06:00

Graydon with St. Nick, and cousin Summer

Graydon and Momma at Chagrin Falls

Some of my best friends from HS, their spouses and children

The Fellas

2010-01-18T13:19:00.002-06:00

Graydon with Mrs. Claus, Santa and Buddy the Elf:)

Pancake Breakfast at my friend Brad's

Lainey, Kate, Jack, Graydon and Brady all hanging out together

Graydon's first time playing in the snow

2010-01-18T07:34:00.003-06:00

Update from North Carolina

2009-12-09T16:06:00.006-06:00

We have been here in North Carolina for 3 months now and the time has flown by. Sabrina is continuing her photography business but it's taking some time to build a new cliental. Graydon loves to climb anything he can and recently discovered how to climb in his crib...enjoy the video of that below:) I have applied for a part-time unpaid chaplaincy internship at Wayne Memorial Hospital from January to May. I believe this experience will enable me to develop skills and use my giftedness. If accepted I look forward to interacting with patients, nurses and doctors regularly. It also gives me the future possibility to do a year residency at one of the hospitals in Raleigh or perhaps work with Hospice.

The Church plant we are part-time staff with is going well. We have an average attendance of 30 people coming and some of our core families have been wanting to serve more. We hope to be closer to where Excel Church is located, since right now we are only able to commute on the weekends with such a far drive. Since Excel is a new church plant and are limited with their funds, our family is trying to raise financial support. Sabrina and I are looking for financial and prayer partners. The tax deductible funds that are donated will help our family to better serve at Excel Church. If you would like to partner with us, we can email you more info or send a letter. Sorry we were not able to send Christmas cards out to everyone this year as finances are tight, but hope you enjoy the E Christmas card above. We love you all and hope you have a wonderful Christmas. We have so much to be thankful for no matter what circumstances we may be facing. Joy and Blessings. -The Whites

"But then I recall all you have done, O Lord; I remember your wonderful deeds of long ago. They are constantly in my thoughts. I cannot stop thinking about your mighty works." Psalm 77:11-12

Is that Jim Tressel or Graydon White

2009-11-24T09:40:00.002-06:00

The last 5 years have been sweet for Buckeye fans, not so much for Michigan fans:)

Graydon's stunt video

2009-11-24T08:39:00.003-06:00

This was about the fourth time he had done this...he has no fear!

2009-11-24T08:16:00.002-06:00

Cousin Jordan turns 5

Jordan and Graydon with his signature cup of cereal

Graydon riding the elephant at the HollyFest in Holly Springs

2009-11-24T07:08:00.002-06:00

Walking through a corn maze with the Didways. I think Graydon did a better job of leading us through than the rest of us did.

Graydon in the kids hay maze

Graydon riding on his first merry-go-round with Grandma Rousay who loves them!

Sabrina's cousin Blake became an Eagle Scout, congrats bro!

"God's Waiting Room" by Jer

2009-10-29T17:21:00.002-05:00

What are you waiting on right now? Is it a job, a Dr’s report, money to pay the bills, confirmation on a decision you’ve made, a loved one to come back from war? The other important question is what is God teaching you during this time? If you’re missing what God’s trying to teach us, then you’re missing one of the most important things.

Isaiah 40:11, 28-31 says, “God tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young.” “Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope (wait) in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”

God is compassionate and extends grace to us more than we deserve. He provides while we wait on Him. Even though we may get tired, God does not and if we wait upon the Lord our strength will be renewed. What I have learned so far about waiting during this season. 1. Waiting is just important as the destination, and God has a bigger purpose in the wait then I can imagine. 2. Waiting is not always passive, but active and we need to constantly be seeking God as He honors persistent prayer. 3. Waiting has allowed me to see where my trust lies and God wants me to realize that I am not in control, which should bring freedom. 4. Waiting is allowing me to remember where my identity lies and that no matter what my job title is, nothing changes that I am a child of God. 5. Waiting can provide some of the sweetest moments with the Father and we need to find contentment with where we are at and enjoy our relationship with God. “Your greatest need is not for all your problems to go away. Your greatest need is for your heart to become calm before God so you can experience the peaceful presence of Christ in the midst of fearful situations.”-Unknown

2009-10-11T23:08:00.002-05:00

My best friends in Ohio celebrating Brad's Birthday, Happy 30th Bro!

The leaves were starting to change colors when we were out there last month

Playing in my parent's back field

"Fear" by Jer

2009-10-11T23:07:00.004-05:00

I want to be like my son Graydon when I grow up! That may sound weird, but let me explain. I watch Graydon play and interact all day long and am amazed at how he throws himself into everything. Just last week I was with my family in Hilton Head, SC and watching Graydon run into the ocean full throttle amazed me. Here he is 32 inches short and 23 pounds and takes on this vast powerful ocean like it’s a puddle. Now I know he doesn’t understand exactly how powerful that ocean is and that it has been responsible for causing a lot of devastation since the beginning of time. However, my son enjoys life and isn’t afraid to live it. Graydon also knew that I was right by his side in that ocean and that I wasn’t going to let anything happen to him.

Are we really enjoying life or have we let fear prevent us from really living? As we get older we let disappointments, past pain, trials, circumstances and people dictate more about how we go about the day than we should. We lose the sense of being like little children in the hands of a powerful God who wants us to enjoy life with no fear. Exodus 14:13-14 says, “Moses answered the people, ‘Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. The Lord will fight for you: you need only to be still”. How incredible that our part is to remain still while God fights for His people! Ask God today what fears are holding you back from enjoying playing in the ocean of life.

(Enjoy the pics and videos of my son living life and how he allows us to enjoy it with him.) If grace were an ocean, we’re all sinking-John Mark McMillan

2009-10-11T22:44:00.003-05:00

Toddler roller coaster, if they made this for adults I think I would get one:)

2009-10-11T22:36:00.001-05:00

Bikin on the beach

Hilton Head, SC

2009-10-11T21:43:00.005-05:00

We went to Hilton Head, SC for a family vacation and stayed at a great House that was just a couple of blocks away from the beach. Thanks family for a fun and relaxing week.

Graydon making Grandpa laugh

Graydon with his cousins

Ready to hit some waves

Momma making G laugh

2009-10-11T21:11:00.003-05:00

Graydon playing on the beach the 1st day. He didn't get to really play in it until the next day.

Ahoy, my little niece London Grace, my sister's little girl

2009-10-11T18:23:00.003-05:00

I had the honor to marry my friend John from High School and his new bride Kara

A beautiful reception, to check out more pics of the wedding go to my wife's blog at defininggracephoto.com or her facebook

The family keeps growing

2009-10-11T18:00:00.002-05:00

Crusin

Sabrina, my parents and I had the opportunity to go to an Amish wedding when we were home. A unique experience and great food!

Graydon loves his playground slides

Graydon helping to take Cousin Summer to school

Graydon and Georgie

Excel Church Plant in Holly Springs, NC

2009-10-11T17:52:00.002-05:00

We are really excited to be on staff with all of the families that are a part of Excel Church Ministries. We had over 50 visitors come on our first Sunday launch on September 13th and have enjoyed getting to know everyone.

2009-10-11T17:19:00.004-05:00

Us after service

The daycare we rent out to have services before set up

After set up...a lot of work but all worth it!

Our Lead Pastor Tony Didway bringing the message

Pastor Tony's wife Angela does our greeting and also provides Family Counseling

2009-10-11T16:52:00.004-05:00

Hilarie and Pastor Aaron leading worship, he also provides financial planning and coaching.

Aaron's wife Cheri with the kids during Creation Station

Pastor Jacob working the audio and video also leads our young adults group.

Jacob's wife Ashley and Yvonne serving up some great Java Divine coffee. Ashley is a trainer and keeps us all motivated with her fitness group.

2009-10-10T21:52:00.002-05:00

Which way is North Carolina?

Our little trucker

Just catchin some zzz's between shifts:)

The Beumer's from Church stopped by for a quick visit. The two of you keep fighting this wonderful fight! Thanks for all of the encouragement

Don and Roz, you 2 and Jason come down for a visit sometime and we will all head to the beach

2009-10-10T21:11:00.002-05:00

One last picture with the Crepe Myrtle I planted for Sabrina's 1st Mother's Day last year

Graydon saying goodbye to his fence in his nursery

Sabrina and Graydon with our neighbor Oliver. Thanks for letting Graydon play in your front yard all the time.

Vicky and Jaydon our close friends and neighbors. Vicky, tell Corry we said hi. Miss you guys!

2009-10-10T20:51:00.002-05:00

My friend David

2009-10-10T20:25:00.003-05:00

Where's Graydon hiding?

"For the Moment" by Jeremy

2009-08-18T14:07:00.000-05:00

These last couple of months have been interesting to say the least. My family has not been sure where the next chapter is going to take us, but we have trusted the God that has been faithful from the beginning. “Shall not He who lead me safely through the footsteps of this day, lead with equal understanding all along my future way” (Adams). We have learned that faith is not always waiting till God speaks and tells you where to go, but sometimes we just need to take a step and get confirmation from God if that is the right step.

My devotion times with God haven’t been the greatest with all that has been going on, but I am realizing that enjoying time with my family is honoring to God as well. I’ve learned more than ever the importance of the journey. Oswald Chambers writes, “The process, not the end glorifies God. His purpose is for the minute. Each moment is precious when obedience is the end…Learn to sing in the ordinary days.” I wonder how many precious moments I let pass because I’m looking towards the end or just because it feels like a normal day. David Crowder says, “Every second is an opportunity to praise God”. I really want to live more for the moment then ever and time is not going to slow down until I figure this out.

I have also been reminded that God has indeed called me and is with me. It can be tough on a husband and father without a job but wanting to provide for his family. I have been humbled and grateful to realize that even though I want to be the provider of my family, God is the true provider. Thank you to everyone who has made our time in Dallas so special. We will miss all of you, we look forward to staying in touch and are excited for the new people God will bring into our lives. Live for the moment!

Cowboys Stadium

2009-08-18T12:06:00.004-05:00

Tour of the new Cowboys Stadium. Notice our Cleveland Browns shirts...can't forget where your loyalties lie)

Graydon checking out his playing field someday. Remember bud, hit em low and drive the legs.

Got to support the former Buckeyes!

Where the Cowboys players will walk out onto the field right down the center of a lounge. If you're in one of the suites you can get a hot dog for $20-$30, a 6 pack of beer for $45-$65, an 8 slice pizza for $60 or 12 slices for $90 and that's not with any toppings. I think all that defines the meaning of excessive and over the top, but a good tour anyway.

Topsail Beach, North Carolina

2009-08-18T10:49:00.002-05:00

Ready to catch some waves

Playin in the sand with cousin Jordan

2009-08-18T10:28:00.002-05:00

My Beautiful Family by the Pier

Chillin and gettin some rays

Sea Turtle Rescue Center that we visited

Graydon and his cousin Isaac

Yo Yo Homey

G's First Rap Video

2009-08-18T10:21:00.002-05:00

"My Struggles are About Him" by Max Lucado

2009-07-21T17:36:00.002-05:00

What about your struggles? Is there any chance, any possibility, that you have been selected to struggle for God's glory? Have you "been granted for Christ's sake, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake" (Philippians 1:29)? Here is a clue. Do your prayers seem to be unanswered? What you request and what you receive aren't matching up? Don't think God is not listening. Indeed he is. He may have higher plans.

Here is another. Are people strengthened by your struggles? A friend of mine can answer yes. His cancer was consuming more than his body; it was eating away at his faith. Unanswered petitions perplexed him. Well-meaning Christians confused him. "If you have faith," they said, "you will be healed." No healing came. Just more chemo, nausea, and questions. He assumed the fault was a small faith. I suggested another answer. "It's not about you," I told him. "Your hospital room is a showcase for your Maker. Your faith in the face of suffering cranks up the volume of God's song."

Oh, that you could have seen the relief on his face. To know that he hadn't failed God and God hadn't failed him--this made all the difference. Seeing his sickness in the scope of God's sovereign plan gave his condition a sense of dignity. He accepted his cancer as an assignment from heaven: a missionary to the cancer ward.
A week later I saw him again. "I reflected God," he said, smiling through a thin face, "to the nurse, the doctors, my friends. Who knows who needed to see God, but I did my best to make him seen." Bingo. His cancer paraded the power of Jesus down the Main Street of his world. God will use whatever he wants to display his glory. Heavens and stars. History and nations. People and problems. Rather than begrudge your problem, explore it. Ponder it. And most of all, use it. Use it to the glory of God. Through your problems and mine, may God be seen.

2009-07-21T17:00:00.005-05:00

Extreme Home Makeover came to a town nearby and since we love the show we went to check it out. The house is beautiful and was for an officer who was paralyzed in the line of duty a few years ago. We didn't know it was the day of the reveal but we couldn't wait another 4 hours in 104 degree heat. I love seeing community coming together! Watch the episode on September 27th, the Season Premiere.

Yes ladies, that is Ty in the middle :)

G's fohawk

Check out Graydon's new ride

Family Vacation to Las Cruces

2009-07-21T13:56:00.006-05:00

This is a beautiful little Spanish Church in Old Mesilla NM...another favorite spot of ours.

Organ Mountains

This video was taken back home after our trip.

Time with the Stansell family

2009-07-21T13:41:00.003-05:00

These two pictures of our family were taken by our good friends the Stansells, owners of Vision Yard Studios in Phoenix, Az. If you've never seen their work you have to check them out! Just click on their names for a link to their site. Thank you guys again for your awesome work!

Shauna & Sabrina

Jeremy & Tim with the boys.

2009-07-21T09:32:00.006-05:00

A wonderful friend of ours, Joanne...thanks again for opening your home and heart to us. We love you!

She had a slide for Graydon to play on and he LOVED it!

2009-07-21T09:03:00.002-05:00

Graydon eating an apple by the slide he was going down all week long

We surprised Frankie with a visit, a dear friend of ours from the former church who has been very generous to our family through the years.

A New Mexico storm is brewing, it actually got so windy it knocked Graydon down right when this picture was taken.

The Dixons with their granddaughter Sophee. Great friends of mine from the church I used to Pastor in Las Cruces.

White Sands

2009-07-21T08:32:00.004-05:00

Mrs. Thomson, she and her family were very gracious to Sabrina when she was at New Mexico State University.

If you have ever been to White Sands outside of Las Cruces, you know how beautiful it is with over 3 square miles of pure white sand. One of the world's great natural wonders God has created for us to enjoy.

G climbing up a sand dune

2009-07-21T08:18:00.002-05:00

Pa, Ma, and little bit at the Farm and Ranch Museum

8 Seconds

Historic Bridge, and Graydon with a nice shiner after a spill on it

The man of the house, kind of

Not too many places where you can drive 80mph legally, except in West Texas. Hopefully you won't have to stop for gas or a bathroom break, because it could be awhile.

2009-07-21T08:10:00.002-05:00

My High School football buddies should know this school. Permian High School in Odessa Texas. Where the Movie "Friday Night Lights" was based off of. We drove by the school and the stadium, which was huge.

Visited Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship and got a chance to meet Dr. Tony Evans who I grew up listening to on the radio with my dad.

"Seasons"

2009-06-22T16:44:00.001-05:00

Ecclesiastes 3 talks about a time for everything and a season for every activity. “A time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance.” My time here in Dallas has entailed all of those and looks like it’s coming to an end as my last Sunday at New Life Bible Fellowship was last week. My wife and I have a contract on our home and we hope to be closer to our families but are just taking one day at a time. I still desire to be in ministry in some form or fashion and we really hope to take Sabrina’s photography business to the next level.

Even though we will most likely be in Dallas through the summer, I want to thank everyone for their love and support these past 3 ½ years. I had never been a Youth Pastor before and the people at NLBF gave me a chance. I know my life and my family’s lives have been affected in so many positive ways and hope our lives have affected others as well. I also look forward to hearing my former youth serve God in awesome ways.

There is so much I could say, but I do know that I am a different man today from when I first came here. God has given me a greater confidence in the gifts and abilities that He has given me. Has taught me that love, obedience and trust are the 3 most important things He asks of me. That even though you may leave when you thought you would be at a place longer, you can still hold your head up high knowing that you did your best. We our thankful for this season, grateful for the many friends we have made and are excited to see how this next chapter enfolds. Please keep our family in your prayers.-The Whites

2009-06-19T20:27:00.002-05:00

Thanks for all the love and support you have given us church family

HERE HE COMES TO...bring you a piece of toilet paper

2009-06-19T18:47:00.001-05:00

Superman never stops learning

Superman with his thumb in his mouth & playing with momma's hair...it must be his kryptonite

Summer Camp

Graydon + Josiah=Trouble & a lot of cuteness

Momma's 30th Birthday, Graydon had a special shirt for the main woman in his life

2009-06-19T18:30:00.002-05:00

Our ministry friends from Texas, The Jones', Us, Vinny, and the soon to be Wideners

A going away cake people from the camp gave us

I think Graydon ate a 1/2 watermelon by himself

Don't we look happy with the Life vest on:(

A little happier with the life vest off swimming w/ Da