DJ, Kim, & Kolter

One of the hardest things about being away from family is when new babies are born. Kolter was the first grandchild not seen within the first 24 hours of life on this earth. Damian & Kim knew that a visit to introduce him to us would definitely be appreciated so they brought him out for a visit. It was such a delight and Kolter, Grandma, and Grandpa had a great time getting to know each other. As with Alease, Mike and Nancy, we visited the Temple, Myrtle Beach, and members. One of the highlights was taking them to church so more could meet them, and having a baby in church is a real treat here. He made his presence known by letting out a couple of real loud burps. Parents turned a little red, but members loved it! The only thing that would have made it perfect would to have had Lexi, Parker, & Taegen as well, but understood the $ end of it. They seemed to enjoy staying with cousins, though. Historical places to visit are a little scarce within our branch as most of them are just a marker so they were limited on that part but we had a great time doing what we did. We are so glad they came!

The Temple was closed but made a
beautiful background and we always
like to share it with those who
come.

Grandpa enjoyed his moments with Kolter. Feeding
a baby is always a relaxing and precious time.

Kolter with Sister McCray. He enjoyed meeting the
members and they loved him!

This is one of my favorite trees especially as the petals
fall making a beautiful pink carpet with the stone bench
beneath. I pictured our granddaughters sitting there &
in Kim's blog she mentioned "she had to do" since the
others weren't available. However, I think this
with her & Kolter is perfect!

Having this picture taken with Grandma & Grandpa
was a stopper! There were those who stopped so they
wouldn't interrupt the picture taking, but it was
interesting to see those who had plenty of room between
the camera & the buildings to keep going, but stopped to
 watch instead! It was all because he was so cute!

Kolter was very happy to be here! We got lots of smiles!

Daddy & Kolter enjoying the peace the ocean can
give you.

Damian, Kim & Kolter marking their
visit - Too bad it got washed away!

Grandma & Kolter had many wonderful conversations.
He has such a wonderful spirit! Thanks, Kim for
catching this moment!

Mike & Nancy

Our branch goes to the North Carolina border. We can't
go over there but Mike & Nancy could.

My cousin Nancy, and her husband, Mike, spent spud harvest with us. The weather was perfect while they were here. They were able to participate in our District Development Meeting and also a Senior Missionary get together with President and Sister Holm at the mission home. It was interesting that they were seated in a different place than us for the dinner and it was if they belonged there. We also attended the temple, so it was a very uplifting time here. Visits and dinners with members of our branch and a trip to the beach, of course, was part of our itinery. They blended in very well and we think it was a great opportunity for them to get a taste of missionary life and we think they will be naturals being proselyting missionaries. The members loved them as they did Alease. Bro. Brayboy was very grateful to Mike as he played a detective and found the family who introduced him to the church, who he will be eternally grateful. Through his efforts, Bro.Crane called Bro. Brayboy and what a phone reunion after over 30 years! It was a wonderful time and we love sharing our mission with family. Just wish we could pick up the branch and take them home with us. Mike & Nancy are ready to come back with us to visit.

Nancy pickin' okra. We're going to try
growing it in Idaho. The blossoms
are large and gorgeous.

Nancy & Sister Lovell pickin' cotton. It was in full bloom.

Mike & Nancy on the pier at Myrtle Beach

Mike on Bro. Brayboy's Harley - one of the
guys favorite things to see.

Mike & Nancy with Sister Jackson. She is 93 (94 on Dec. 24)