Wednesday, January 6, 2010
New Year, New Home In Florida
Greetings from sunny, but chilly Florida!
After years of moving every 3 years with the Air Force, we have finally relocated to our choice location! Sunny Florida! We have prayed and prayed that God would allow us to live in Florida and for years He told us "Not Yet". When it was time for Jim to take a new assignment, I'd ask him, "Isn't there something you can do in the AF somewhere in Florida?" Even though a military assignment never took us to Florida, we knew if it was God's will, it would happen.
After Jim retired from 20 years in the Air Force in 2005, God opened a door for him with Aviation Training Consulting (ATC), a company that an Air Force buddy started just a few years earlier. Robert Cox, founder and CEO phoned Jim in Jan. 2005 looking for a "few good men" to help him grow his business. I thought, oh great, he's going to want us to move BACK to Altus. See, we had lived in Altus from 1993-1996 and Jim and Robert had worked together flying C-141 aircraft and intergrating the C-17. We knew Altus and had fond memories of our time there. Rachel, now 15 yrs old, was born there, Jim and I were both baptized there at FBC, grew in our faith, and we made many close friends during our 3 year military assignment. Robert and Jim worked well together and we both felt God was definately calling him to this job!
Over spring break 2005, we went out to visit Jim's parents and looked and looked at homes since Robert was going to allow Jim to work for him virtually in Florida. However, after praying and much consideration, we decided it would be best to live at the company's headquarters in Altus, Ok.
So, we packed up and moved our family out to Altus, in southwest Oklahoma!
Although the Air Force was no longer going to dictate where we were going to live and we could move to Florida, we were excited to go with this and follow God's plan to Altus. For those of you who have never been to Altus or don't know where it, it's not the jumping off place, but close to it. Its about 2 hours from OKC and 3 hours from DFW. But we knew God's hand was in it!
We spent the next 4 1/2 years getting plugged into the community. The people I met at Sunset Elementary and FBC the first year warmed my heart and drew me into the small town life. I began working at the church, helping them in the finance department and as the receptionist as needed. Then, I was given the privledge to work for our pastor as his assistant beginning in Jan. 06. God gave us a ministry with young Air Force families that continued to bless our lives. I believe God sent us to Altus, for a time, to serve Him and even though it broke our hearts to leave dear friends, He had a purpose for our time there! I was blessed in so many ways from all the people He allowed me to meet.
Jim grew in his knowledge of company as well as in his faith. He amazes me everyday how much he trusts and loves the Lord. He was always dedicated to his God first, and to his family and never gave up on learning more about the the company and how to make it better. We truly felt God was right beside us as we believed Altus was where he wanted us to be.
Things aren't always meant to stay the same. Jim and I began to feel God telling us it was time to make a change. God had been working on Jim for years. Not sure of what He wanted him to do, Jim was patient and waited for His direction. After a cut in pay and things a little rocky with the company, we decided to step out on faith and we sold our home during a rough time last summer. Things remained "okay" for the company and his boss allowed him to continue to work, and would allow him to do so from Florida since there was new opportunties for their business out here.
Now, Jim continues to work for ATC and is considering going to seminary here in Orlando.
This is just the beginning of the rest of our story...stay tuned for Moore :)
After years of moving every 3 years with the Air Force, we have finally relocated to our choice location! Sunny Florida! We have prayed and prayed that God would allow us to live in Florida and for years He told us "Not Yet". When it was time for Jim to take a new assignment, I'd ask him, "Isn't there something you can do in the AF somewhere in Florida?" Even though a military assignment never took us to Florida, we knew if it was God's will, it would happen.
After Jim retired from 20 years in the Air Force in 2005, God opened a door for him with Aviation Training Consulting (ATC), a company that an Air Force buddy started just a few years earlier. Robert Cox, founder and CEO phoned Jim in Jan. 2005 looking for a "few good men" to help him grow his business. I thought, oh great, he's going to want us to move BACK to Altus. See, we had lived in Altus from 1993-1996 and Jim and Robert had worked together flying C-141 aircraft and intergrating the C-17. We knew Altus and had fond memories of our time there. Rachel, now 15 yrs old, was born there, Jim and I were both baptized there at FBC, grew in our faith, and we made many close friends during our 3 year military assignment. Robert and Jim worked well together and we both felt God was definately calling him to this job!
Over spring break 2005, we went out to visit Jim's parents and looked and looked at homes since Robert was going to allow Jim to work for him virtually in Florida. However, after praying and much consideration, we decided it would be best to live at the company's headquarters in Altus, Ok.
So, we packed up and moved our family out to Altus, in southwest Oklahoma!
Although the Air Force was no longer going to dictate where we were going to live and we could move to Florida, we were excited to go with this and follow God's plan to Altus. For those of you who have never been to Altus or don't know where it, it's not the jumping off place, but close to it. Its about 2 hours from OKC and 3 hours from DFW. But we knew God's hand was in it!
We spent the next 4 1/2 years getting plugged into the community. The people I met at Sunset Elementary and FBC the first year warmed my heart and drew me into the small town life. I began working at the church, helping them in the finance department and as the receptionist as needed. Then, I was given the privledge to work for our pastor as his assistant beginning in Jan. 06. God gave us a ministry with young Air Force families that continued to bless our lives. I believe God sent us to Altus, for a time, to serve Him and even though it broke our hearts to leave dear friends, He had a purpose for our time there! I was blessed in so many ways from all the people He allowed me to meet.
Jim grew in his knowledge of company as well as in his faith. He amazes me everyday how much he trusts and loves the Lord. He was always dedicated to his God first, and to his family and never gave up on learning more about the the company and how to make it better. We truly felt God was right beside us as we believed Altus was where he wanted us to be.
Things aren't always meant to stay the same. Jim and I began to feel God telling us it was time to make a change. God had been working on Jim for years. Not sure of what He wanted him to do, Jim was patient and waited for His direction. After a cut in pay and things a little rocky with the company, we decided to step out on faith and we sold our home during a rough time last summer. Things remained "okay" for the company and his boss allowed him to continue to work, and would allow him to do so from Florida since there was new opportunties for their business out here.
Now, Jim continues to work for ATC and is considering going to seminary here in Orlando.
This is just the beginning of the rest of our story...stay tuned for Moore :)
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Summer's here!
It is definately summer here in southwest Oklahoma. The temps have already reached beyond 100 degrees on several days. We are so thankful to have a pool and enjoy spashing around on these hot summer days.
This month, my inlaws have been to visit us from Florida on their way to and from Colorado Springs. They are retired and purchased a camper about 5 years ago and love to travel.
We enjoyed having them with us for two different weeks. And Jim's sister, Jennifer, was here last week as well. She brought her new dog, Toby, a 3 year old golden retriver with her and we feel in love with him. He is the best dog, don't tell Colby, our 11 year old beagle, I said that though. He doesn't shed and he is just the most lovable, kind dog ever!
Jim's parents have been pet hospice for both of Jennifer's elderly dogs the past few years. They had to put the last one down to rest a few months ago. Knowing that they wanted to have a younger dog, we found the perfect one for them. Our good friends here in Altus had a litter of 5 and we, along with Jennifer gave them a puppy for their anniversary and summer birthday presents. We got to enjoy the new puppy, "Grits", while they were here.
The girls have a break from cheerleading after their summer cheer camps, VBS was last week and next week is Drivers Training for Rachel. Yes, she is going to be driving! I can't believe it either.
Just alittle of whats going on out here in the country. hope you all are having a wonderful summer. if you are traveling through Oklahoma or North Texas, give us a call.....we'd love to have some visitors.
This month, my inlaws have been to visit us from Florida on their way to and from Colorado Springs. They are retired and purchased a camper about 5 years ago and love to travel.
We enjoyed having them with us for two different weeks. And Jim's sister, Jennifer, was here last week as well. She brought her new dog, Toby, a 3 year old golden retriver with her and we feel in love with him. He is the best dog, don't tell Colby, our 11 year old beagle, I said that though. He doesn't shed and he is just the most lovable, kind dog ever!
Jim's parents have been pet hospice for both of Jennifer's elderly dogs the past few years. They had to put the last one down to rest a few months ago. Knowing that they wanted to have a younger dog, we found the perfect one for them. Our good friends here in Altus had a litter of 5 and we, along with Jennifer gave them a puppy for their anniversary and summer birthday presents. We got to enjoy the new puppy, "Grits", while they were here.
The girls have a break from cheerleading after their summer cheer camps, VBS was last week and next week is Drivers Training for Rachel. Yes, she is going to be driving! I can't believe it either.
Just alittle of whats going on out here in the country. hope you all are having a wonderful summer. if you are traveling through Oklahoma or North Texas, give us a call.....we'd love to have some visitors.
Sunday, May 10, 2009
May Madness
30 friends came over on May 3rd for our Mexican Fiesta. We had lots of munchies and mingling. They spoiled me on my birthday with a cake (from June's Tasty Treats)fresh flowers, a fern that Hannah picked out, a gift certificate for sunglasses, and my favorite bath products from Origins. We went to Wichita Falls for Rachel's ortho appointment and went to eat at McAlester's. We made it back in time for the girls to go to youth group at 7 p.m.
Mother's Day is always special as I remember my own mother and thank the Lord for the gift of being a mother myself. It has been a great 15 years, yes, Rachel will be driving soon and Hannah is about to become a teenager on the 22nd of this month. I have to say, they are the best teenagers!
The school year is coming to a close and we are all excited about summer schedule and spending lots of time by the pool. Rachel ended year first year in high school with top honors. She was inducted into the National Honor Society, following the footsteps of her father. (He drug out his certificate to show us.)She also got top honors in solo and ensemble choir contests. She will be on the varsity cheerleading squadron next school year. And hopes to be class president again.
Hannah has also been an honor student and a leader in her 7th grade class. She has been chosen to represent Altus Junior High as a cheerleader again next year and elected to be President of the student Council.
As for me, i am on facebook now and having a blast reconnecting with many friends all over the country that I met along our journey in the air force. Its great to be back in touch.
Mother's Day is always special as I remember my own mother and thank the Lord for the gift of being a mother myself. It has been a great 15 years, yes, Rachel will be driving soon and Hannah is about to become a teenager on the 22nd of this month. I have to say, they are the best teenagers!
The school year is coming to a close and we are all excited about summer schedule and spending lots of time by the pool. Rachel ended year first year in high school with top honors. She was inducted into the National Honor Society, following the footsteps of her father. (He drug out his certificate to show us.)She also got top honors in solo and ensemble choir contests. She will be on the varsity cheerleading squadron next school year. And hopes to be class president again.
Hannah has also been an honor student and a leader in her 7th grade class. She has been chosen to represent Altus Junior High as a cheerleader again next year and elected to be President of the student Council.
As for me, i am on facebook now and having a blast reconnecting with many friends all over the country that I met along our journey in the air force. Its great to be back in touch.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
A Month Full of Activities
Who says January can be a let down after the holidays?
Things have been far from boring in Altus lately...
well, for our family anyway. Having two active teenagers keeps Jim and I jumpin'...
To start out 2009, LIGHT, a talented group of Christian singers,
came from Liberty University in Lynchburg VA to our church.
We were also blessed and revived when Afshin Ziafat came to share his testimony and the hope in Christ with us.
Then our talented Miss Rachel performed with the Oklahoma State Honor Choir in Oklahoma City. It was a joy to see and hear her sing with over 200 7th-9th graders, the best from all over the state.
The weather has been bearable this winter, however we had some ice and snow last week which resulted in two snow days for Altus schools.
To finish off the month of January, the girls and I went to The Revolve Tour in OKC last weekend. We were inspired by Natalie Grant, Jenna Lucado, Chad Eastham, and a few great Christian bands...our new favorite is Group 1 Crew!
Both Rachel and Hannah continue to cheer their classmates on at the basketball games. And both are super excited for DNow (Disciple Now) this weekend. Pray for us as we host the 7th grade girls at our home.
Things have been far from boring in Altus lately...
well, for our family anyway. Having two active teenagers keeps Jim and I jumpin'...
To start out 2009, LIGHT, a talented group of Christian singers,
came from Liberty University in Lynchburg VA to our church.
We were also blessed and revived when Afshin Ziafat came to share his testimony and the hope in Christ with us.
Then our talented Miss Rachel performed with the Oklahoma State Honor Choir in Oklahoma City. It was a joy to see and hear her sing with over 200 7th-9th graders, the best from all over the state.
The weather has been bearable this winter, however we had some ice and snow last week which resulted in two snow days for Altus schools.
To finish off the month of January, the girls and I went to The Revolve Tour in OKC last weekend. We were inspired by Natalie Grant, Jenna Lucado, Chad Eastham, and a few great Christian bands...our new favorite is Group 1 Crew!
Both Rachel and Hannah continue to cheer their classmates on at the basketball games. And both are super excited for DNow (Disciple Now) this weekend. Pray for us as we host the 7th grade girls at our home.
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Christmas in Altus
My mom came to see us for a few days before Christmas and then she went down on Christmas Eve to my sister's new house. Jim's parents drove out from Florida to spend a week with us and his sister, Jennifer, came from Colorado Springs for a few days as well. We were definately spoiled this year not to have to travel. Thank you so much for coming to "lil ole Altus" to spend this special time of year with us. I believe I see a Christmas vacation to the south next year.
So...it was definately alittle different this year when we all gathered to open presents. As a tradition, Rachel and Hannah always open their stockings first and then we have breakfast. Well, the night before Christmas, Rachel (14 yrs.) informed us that she was going to get up and take a shower before meeting us at the Christmas tree. So, this year everyone was dressed for the day before we opened even the first gift. The stockings were filled with lip gloss, brushes, cami's and boxers, not a barbie in sight. They were thrilled but I watched with a little bit of sadness that they are growing up so fast.
We spent the next few days eating alot, watching football, searching for a furry companion for Aunt Jennifer, and trying out this year's favorite gift "the Cricut" cutting system. I have decided, again, to work on my Christmas Scrapbook album. I have 4 Christmas' completed of the girls 14 years. My goal is to have it up to date so we can reflect back when we get together with family next Christmas.
So...it was definately alittle different this year when we all gathered to open presents. As a tradition, Rachel and Hannah always open their stockings first and then we have breakfast. Well, the night before Christmas, Rachel (14 yrs.) informed us that she was going to get up and take a shower before meeting us at the Christmas tree. So, this year everyone was dressed for the day before we opened even the first gift. The stockings were filled with lip gloss, brushes, cami's and boxers, not a barbie in sight. They were thrilled but I watched with a little bit of sadness that they are growing up so fast.
We spent the next few days eating alot, watching football, searching for a furry companion for Aunt Jennifer, and trying out this year's favorite gift "the Cricut" cutting system. I have decided, again, to work on my Christmas Scrapbook album. I have 4 Christmas' completed of the girls 14 years. My goal is to have it up to date so we can reflect back when we get together with family next Christmas.
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