the mcnamee family

Merry Christmas from the McNamees!

2011-12-17T20:06:00.004-05:00

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:6

Love,

Ella Bella

Riley Roo

Virginia and Daniel (Mommy and Daddy)

Happy October and November from the McNamees!

2011-11-17T20:50:00.007-05:00

Loving those carrots!

Riley pretending to be a bride...what a beautiful veil!

Another nature girl in training:)

riley playing dress up with mommy and daddy's closet

Ella loves copying her big sissy...european ella

ella's first pig tails

riley loves playing in the backyard with dakota and lilly

riley's leaf bed

October and November 2011 have come and gone so fast! It's been filled with playing outside on beautiful fall days, Thursday school for Riley, finally joining the YMCA and having play dates here and there. Daniel and I also had a chance to go away for a weekend to one of our favorite inns called The Sourwood Inn. Thank you Barbara and Jim for the gift and mom and dad for spending the weekend with the girls. We are so grateful!

Goodbye summer...hello fall!

2011-09-26T21:45:00.003-04:00

Family beach trip to Ocean Isle!

First day of preschool!

Daniel's black bear siting while on a camping trip...little too close for comfort:)

I think we have a hoarder on our hands!

Nashville trip to meet our new nephews, Levi and Price

Cooling off on a hot summer day!

Nashville Zoo

I have been reading through Corinthians lately, and one of the themes that resonates repeatedly is our all sufficiency on Christ. "Not that we are sufficient in ourselves to claim anything as coming from us, but our sufficiency is from God, who has made us competent to be ministers of a new covenant..." 2 Corinthians 3:5. I am constantly learning that I am totally dependent on Christ for all that I do, whether it be a wife, mother, veterinarian, friend, neighbor or even complete stranger! He is what sustains and brings fullness of joy, even in the midst of those days when I feel out of control, like I'm grasping for a rope or under a dark rain cloud. Unfotunately, oh so often I try to find my contentment and strength from the things of this earth. But, thanks be to God...He is the One that fights for me and has already won the victory over my sin! He is always faithful to lead me back to His green pastures and quiet waters. Thank you tender Shepherd!

September has seemed to come and go like a vapor. I can't believe we are already heading into fall...my favorite season of the year! I am looking forward to fall festivals, anything pumpkin (especially pumpkin chocolate chip muffins), bluegrass music, cool morning runs and the leaves changing colors. Here is a glimpse of what this past month looked like for us...

Martha's Vineyard Vacation

2011-08-20T22:07:00.004-04:00

Riley enjoyed playing in the chilly water

Daniel spent an afternoon on a schooner

I enjoyed finding a quiet spot to read

Beautiful sunset at Aquinnah

Sunrise over Vineyard Haven harbor

This past month, we took our first big vacation as a family of four up to Martha's Vineyard. We rented a house with my parents and sister's family. Despite the early morning risings with little E (she was up about 5 am every morning), we had a great time. Here are a few sweet moments captured...

Family Photo Shoot

2011-08-10T21:05:00.005-04:00

I love this photo...it shows Ella's playful personality

"Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven." Matthew 19:14

Our nature girl

"Outdo one another in showing honor." Romans 12:10

So, I'm a bit late in writing the July post, but I'll be sure to do some extra posting to show what the Lord is doing in the McNamee home. One fun treat we had back in June was to have Jamie Brant take some family pictures at a local college campus. Despite a threatening summer storm and a grumpy toddler, we managed to get some great shots. Thanks Jamie!

Romans 12:10 (above) has been my theme verse this week. I have been reading a book called Lies Women Believe by Nancy Leigh DeMoss, which talks about some common lies women are told by Satan/the World/others instead of listening to the Truth of Christ. Through this book, the Lord has revealed to me how selfish and prideful I often am when it comes to my rights and how I serve others. My prayer is that I would have a sacrificial and selfless heart as I serve my Lord, husband, children and others.

"Not to us, O Lord, not to us, but to your name give glory, for the sake of your steadfast love and yoru faithfulness." Psalm 115:1

Take these hands...

2011-06-20T21:18:00.011-04:00

Daniel spent 4 days with our church at Bridgemont Camp helping build (and photograph) an arts and crafts center

This face makes me laugh...as you can tell, we have our hands full with Riley

Riley requested a photo shoot with her doggie after seeing Daddy taking pictures of Ella

Ella has loved trying out new foods...thank goodness for another good eater!

The McNamee girls (excluding our fur babies) enjoying the summer heat at the park

Reading books together

First bath time together...and many more to come!

Sisters getting cozy...Riley's not so sure about this

One thing that many people may not know about me is that I once wanted to be an author (along with a flower, veterinarian, teacher and doctor). I really do love to write, but it has become one thing that has sat on the back burner during this season of my life. A recent conversation with a friend, however, sparked a fire in me to pick up my pen again...aka my little dell laptop. My goal is to blog at least once a month about whatever the Lord lays on my heart. It may be more frequently, but hopefully not less. So, here it goes...a daughter of the King, wife, mother, veterinarian and want to be gardener embark on this journey of scribbling across the years sharing my life, my thoughts, my heart. Here is a bit of what June 2011 has brought to our home...take these hands, Lord, and make them yours.

We're starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel!

2011-01-30T20:32:00.001-05:00

Our girls are growing up fast! Life is beginning to return somewhat to a norm now that ella is 3 months old. They are both growing up so fast before our eyes! a few of riley's favorite activities are reading (she sleeps with 10 books), playing with the "ark" (art) box that nanna gave her, trying to take her sister's stuffed animals to add to her collection, walking around with the diaper changing pad on her head, eating strawberries, and giving hugs and kisses to her stuffed animals. a few of ella's favorite activities are eating, pooping, sleeping, not riding in her car seat, and taking showers. a few of mom and dad's favorite activities are sleeping, eating, sleeping, taking an occasional shower when we find time, sleeping, and loving the beautful daughters the Lord has blessed us with. We hope all is well with everyone!

riley trying out her new shades on a surprising 60 degree january day!

ella is slowly catching up to her big sister in size! they're only 1.5 diaper sizes apart! (ella has her daddy's thighs)

riley exploring in the yard! those blue eyes!

ella likes to watch her sister eat dinner!

one of ella's many dramatic faces that have earned her the title of "our little diva"

ella relaxing on the play mat

ella (also affectionately known as "2-ton tony") showing off her muscles

the mcnamee girls going for a stroll

Riley's First Trip to Monkey Joes

2011-01-19T18:48:00.003-05:00

I took Riley to Monkey Joes for the first time today. Because of her somewhat shy personality, I wasn't sure how she would like it. As you can tell by this video clip, she felt right at home. She loved every bit...including Monkey Joe himself!

adventures of a family of four

2010-10-29T20:49:00.002-04:00

climbing the slide with lamby

little ella hanging out in her swing

the girls

taking ella on a walk and collecting sticks

ella katherine mcnamee arrives early!

2010-10-21T11:26:00.002-04:00

baby ella decided to beat her big sister riley and come 9 days early instead of 7 days for riley. she was 8 lbs 1 oz. and 20.5 inches. mom and baby are doing well, and riley is still trying to figure out who ella is and how "baby ella" is no longer in mommy's belly!

Weekend in the Mountains

2010-09-19T21:31:00.003-04:00

crabtree falls

sunrise from switzerland inn

the orchard at altapass

picking some apples

crabtree falls

short hike to mount mitchell

there's never a dull moment with riley

2010-09-14T22:42:00.006-04:00

i think you can guess what's about to happen...

after trying to encourage riley to help swing the baby...she kindly shared all her stuffed animals with the pretend baby doll(there isn't an actual baby under there so don't worry)

helping daddy at work...

taking a bath with good friend anna

learning my alphabet at the library

reading the paper with mom

scratching while enjoying my movie

whoaa! that's a big bear...

20 minutes after we put her down for a nap we heard a noise and...we found her like this! it's kind of hard not to smile when you tell her that she needs to stay in her bed during naptime!

riley at 18 months old...she's growing fast

2010-08-26T22:06:00.003-04:00

Seeing that it had been since January since we posted last, we thought we should at least post some pictures to prove we are still here. Riley is growing fast and we are excited (I'm not sure if Riley really knows yet) about the arrival of her little sister Ella Katherine in October!

riley loves to eat!

she loves to explore outside

riley's favorite activities at 10.5 months...

2010-01-31T18:17:00.004-05:00

climbing into my toy box...

walking with momma and dadda.

pulling things out of baskets

wrestling lilly

pulling the dvd's off the shelf

brushing her teeth...or just eating the toothpaste

first sled ride!

2009-12-22T09:59:00.003-05:00

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Love,

Daniel, Virginia, Riley, Dakota and Lilly

More Pics...

2009-11-02T22:08:00.003-05:00

Swinging with papa

Sunset overlooking Madrid

Green side of building

Pantheon

Coliseum...think Gladiator!

Madrid, Rome and Gelato

2009-11-02T21:35:00.003-05:00

Sporting her new hat in the Bjorn

Teaching her the important food groups!

The family in front of St. Peters

Swinging in a local park

Riley and abuela

About a week ago, we returned from visiting Daniel's parents in Madrid, Spain. We had a wonderful trip spending time with abuela (spanish for grandmother) and pawpaw McNamee, tia (aunt) Maria and some new additions to the Spain Young Life team. We spent our time in Madrid relaxing, watching movies, going to the park, touring some gardens in the city and taking a long bike ride into the city. It was so sweet to spend time together as a family. During the middle part of our stay, we "hopped" over to Rome for 3 nights for more adventure and fun. Riley was such a trooper through it all. She loved meeting her pawpaw for the first time, traveling around in the baby bjorn for 6 hours a day and experiencing her first Italian gelato. She may have even picked up a little Spanish and Italian with all the sweet elderly people speaking to her. Thank you abuela, pawpaw and tia maria for such a wonderful stay and fun time. We can't wait to see you all soon!

7 months old already!

2009-10-05T20:22:00.004-04:00

having fun in her jumper

thanks grandpa for my green bear!!

it doesn't take much persuading at dinnertime

It's Zoo Time!

2009-09-16T17:43:00.006-04:00

A few weekends ago, Daniel, Riley and I headed to Columbia, SC to spend the night with some good friends, the Kellys. We had a great time seeing their new home, walking around the Columbia Zoo and catching up on life. Thank you for such a fun weekend!

Feeding the giraffe!

Snoozing lion...what a life!

Riley cruising in her jogging stroller

Daddy and Riley looking at the goats

This spider was not an exhibit...

the ladies

More pics...

2009-08-30T21:28:00.003-04:00

Starting solids...yummy!

High Rock Lake

Riley's bean bag chair;o)

High Rock Lake Adventure

2009-08-30T21:05:00.006-04:00

Trying out the jogging stroller for the first time!

Daniel, Riley and I spent the latter part of this past week relaxing at a near by lake called High Rock Lake. My parents rented a house for the week, so we packed up and headed up their way. We had a blast of playing games, swimming, paddling in the canoe, going on walks and of course eating yummy food. We even had a bon fire and smores one night. Riley slept quite well at night (7pm-7am), which made the time even sweeter! Thanks mom and dad for a great, restful vacation! Here are a few lake photos and some random shots from the prior week at Freedom Park.

Nashville Bound!

2009-08-05T13:53:00.005-04:00

Riley and Wyatt already great friends!

Who are you?

Riley was exhausted after all the fun on Tia Maria

Sweet Wyatt...look at those long fingers!

Come on Wyatt, let's go play...zzzzz!

This past weekend we decided to drive to Nashville to visit family, including our new nephew! He is adorable and growing like a weed. We had a great time...thank you Katherine and Jeremy for the fun weekend. Riley did amazingly well, but by the end of the 7 hour car ride Sunday, she was letting us know she was ready to be out of her car seat!

Awaken!

2009-07-28T21:40:00.003-04:00

Tomatos ripening in the garden

Watermelon, anyone?

Riley and daddy at the whitewater center

Riley reading the newspaper

Say cheese!

Awaken! This is how we've felt over the past month. Now, that Riley is almost 5 months old, we are really starting to live life "normally" again and feel like functional members of society again. We've enjoyed every stage, but it is so much fun to see Riley interact with her surroundings and respond to us. And of course, sleep is such a wondrous and beautiful thing again! She is "talking" her language, flipping from her belly to back (unfotunately she hasn't learned to flip the other way and hates being on her back for long!), sucking her thumb consistently, reading books and starting to laugh. What a genius!

Updates on the rest of the McNamee life include our growing garden, developing plans to visit Spain in October (should be interesting with a 7 month old!), working (Virginia works 2-3 days a week now) and traveling to various places this coming month (we promise to post more frequently!). Here are a few shots of what summer 2009 has brought our way.

She's growing!

2009-07-03T18:49:00.007-04:00

It has been so much fun watching Riley grow over these past fews months. She will be officially 4 months old on July 8th. She is rolling over, smiling and cooing and really interacting with her surroundings more. She truly is a beautiful baby (I know I'm biased), and we pray that her inner beauty would develop as she becomes more aware of Christ's love in her life. Although many people initially said she looked more like Virginia, there are definitely some characteristics popping up that reflect Daniel...including her large thighs (check out Daniel's baby picture below)! So, come check her out...we would love friends and family to visit!

riley at 4 months

2009-06-25T21:51:00.000-04:00

We can't believe Riley is already 4 months old. Her personality is beginning to become more and more apparent and it has been a joy to see her open up. She is mostly a "serious" baby with her furrowed brow looks, but with a little urging she'll smile away. Her favorite hobbies continue to be taking walks up the street with daddy in the baby bjorn, slobbering on everything that touches her mouth, rolling over, and her all time favorite: drinking milk, milk and more milk...

hanging out in dad's favorite shirt

whoah...what is that green thing?

already using her feet more adeptly than her hands

uhhhh...what are you doing?

Riley's First Road Trip

2009-06-14T17:08:00.000-04:00

the family- virginia's grandparents celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary!

i dare you to change my diaper...

Riley Wearing Mom's Old Dress...

2009-06-14T17:03:00.000-04:00

First Smiles

2009-05-22T17:12:00.001-04:00

First Smiles

2009-05-22T15:38:00.002-04:00

Strawberry Pickin' and More

2009-05-08T22:58:00.004-04:00

Here are some recent sweet pictures of what we have been up to lately. Riley has begun to blossom...smile, coo and grow big time. What a fun journey it's been...with a few up hills, but overall an incredible ride!

Thanks Patrick and Lauren for the onesie! Riley loves it!

On the way to strawberry pick...as you can tell Riley is thrilled!

Some of our closest friends, Heather and Jeremy, came for a visit. Thanks guys!

Our little strawberry!

The family (Riley's hiding)

Riley at 7 weeks...

2009-04-26T16:25:00.004-04:00

she's picked up a few habits from dad!

she's growing fast!

2009-04-17T20:07:00.009-04:00

Riley had her 6 week checkup today and weighed in at 9 lbs 13 oz. and was 21.5 in. long! She has been busy feeding, pooping and sleeping (sometimes) the last 5 weeks. Some of her favorite activities are going on walks, reading the children's bible story, gazing at ceiling fans, swinging, and blowing out her diaper. Though there are definitely some tough times, overall Riley has been such a blessing and we look forward to what each new day brings. Thanks for all the thoughts, meals, and prayers!

sleeping...

looking at the fans!

pooping...the diaper genie

Riley's First Photo Shoot

2009-04-10T13:23:00.004-04:00

A few weeks ago, one of my dearest friends took Daniel, Riley and I to a beautiful land preserve for some family pictures. Not only has Amy taught me a lot about loving others extravagently, but she has an amazing gift in capturing special moments on camera. Check out her website at amyfree.com (or click on the Amy Free Photography link on our blog) to see some of her work. Our photo shoot is titled Riley Elizabeth. If you are interested in capturing some shots of life's treasures, I highly recommend her!

so who does she look like?

2009-04-04T16:28:00.005-04:00

riley

daniel and virginia

daniel

Two weeks old already!

2009-03-22T21:30:00.002-04:00

sleeping through her first photo shoot

awake time with mom

hanging out with dad

trying to keep dad from going to work...

sleeping away...

You're beautiful baby Riley...love, mom

2009-03-18T13:58:00.003-04:00

Well, what an adventure the last 1.5 weeks have been. One of joy, excitement, challenge and most importantly falling more in love with my Savior and Lord Jesus Christ, husband and sweet baby girl. I have been shown more of what it means in Isaiah 55, "Incline your ear, and come to me; hear, that your soul may live; and I will make with you an everlasting covenant, my steadfast, sure love for David." It's amazing how a tiny life can teach me more of that steadfast, sure love that only Christ brings. I am grateful for this lesson, opportunity and privilege.

Now, for the details of our exciting weekend of baby Riley's arrival. Through the previous week, I had been feeling slight contractions, but nothing to write home about. I was able to go about my daily routine just fine. In fact the day she was born (actually the day before, but the day we left for the hospital), I worked 5 hours at the clinic, went to a housewarming party and walked around for 2 hours at the Southern home and garden show...a full day, just how I like it! That night, I had fallen asleep on the couch (nothing unusual about that!) while Daniel watched a basketball game. I was suddenly awoken by what I thought was a stong contraction, but in fact my water had broken which I later found out at the hospital. Once this happened, the contractions became fast and furious. As typical, I thought maybe we should hold out a little longer (what if this isn't it?), but Daniel made the final call (thank goodness!) to drive to the hospital once my contractions were coming every 2 minutes. By the time we were admitted, Riley quickly make it known that she was ready to join us in the world. We were admitted at 11:45 pm Saturday and she was born at 2:30 am Sunday. Praise God for a quick labor! She weighed 6 lbs 12 oz, length 20 3/4" and has a full head of McNamee hair!

And this marks the beginning of a new adventure for us...we are excited for this challenge and are relying soley on the Lord for wisdom, patience and love. We already are deeply in love with baby Riley and count it as a blessing to nurture, love and watch her grow into the woman God has already prepared her to be.

For all our friends and family, thank you for all of your support, encouragement and love through this time...we are so grateful for you! We will be sure to keep you up to date on the McNamee trio.

hanging out at home

2009-03-13T19:39:00.002-04:00

A Week of Firsts

2009-03-12T13:45:00.002-04:00

checking out the view from the nursery

holding mom's hand

riding/sleeping in the stroller

first walk

checking out her crib for the first time

Little Riley Elizabeth at the hospital

2009-03-10T15:24:00.000-04:00

5 minutes old

5 minutes old- who are you?

riley and mom

getting ready to go home

Welcome Riley Elizabeth McNamee!

2009-03-09T16:15:00.005-04:00

Welcome Riley Elizabeth McNamee!

2009-03-09T16:15:00.000-04:00

Holiday Events

2009-01-08T20:18:00.002-05:00

31 weeks along...9 to go.

we're ready to meet little riley

the mcnamee girls

lilly hanging out with dad

Tacky Sweater Christmas Party

Move over Dad, I'm reading...

our niece Rachel and Paul

mmm taste good...where did everyone go?

2009-01-08T18:22:00.001-05:00

Baby McNamee Update

2008-11-10T21:26:00.004-05:00

Praise the Lord! We will be welcoming a sweet, baby GIRL this coming March. We are so humbled, excited and joyful for the life God is creating in Virginia's womb. We are being taught daily of God's goodness and sovereignty through this journey.

Beautiful Blacksburg Bound...

2008-10-28T15:45:00.006-04:00

Watermill along the Blue Ridge Parkway

Autumn is here!

Southwest Virginia Countryside

A couple of weekends ago, Daniel and I headed up to our alma mater and breathed in some Hokie air. We were there for just the beginning of the autumn leaf beauty. Saturday, we also had a sweet time with our friend Meredith, strolled through the farmer's market and munched on the o so delicious pumpkin chocolate chip muffins from Bollos. Then Sunday and Monday, Daniel and I feasted at the Homeplace, stayed at a beautiful B&B near the Appalachian trail and drove part of the way home on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Now that is my kind of weekend! We were so grateful for the time away of rest and relaxation!

And Two Became Three

2008-10-02T22:07:00.000-04:00

For those of you who haven't heard, we are expecting a new addition this coming March. We are so grateful and praise the Giver of Life everyday. We are so excited to experience this little one face to face, but in the meantime, we are content resting in Christ. One of my favorite Psalms echos often in my ears, "For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother's womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well." Psalms 139:14-15

the mcnamee trio

baby mac

Can you believe it? A McNamee posting!

2008-10-01T15:02:00.012-04:00

Sorry for our long delay in posting a blog entry...we've been a mixture of busy, lazy and enjoying the beautiful fall weather. Despite our absence, we've had a fun and exciting last few months. Here are a few shots from whats been happening in the McNamee sphere. More pictures will be coming soon!

Ice cream with friends...little Sam's in heaven!

South Mountain State Park

What a great pose Tillman!

A yellow pepper from our garden....mmm!

Sweet Lilly in her favorite spot!

gigantic sunflower

2008-07-21T22:41:00.003-04:00

last year i began a tradition that i think i will continue for many years to come. i planted quite a few sunflower seeds, and one of them began to grow and grow and topped out at 6-7 ft tall. well this year, i planted around 40 more seeds from last year's flower. i put them in the side yard, near the front path and in our front yard bed near the street. most of these plantings were done in secret due to their location. (virginia and i usually disagree on planting locations, i tend to overplant prominent areas) well, this year we have 6 sunflowers throughout the yard, but one has stood above them all. much to virginia's dismay, this was the one i planted secretly on the front edge of our yard! :) i have to agree with her, it did look like we had a larger than life weed growing for 2 months. but as our sunflower reached full height at about 10-11 ft, and began to bloom, i was once again inspired. so keep watching for next year, i'll be shooting for a 15 ft sunflower!

about to open up...

first day open...

opening up...i had to take this one from a ladder!

1400 miles of colorado in seven days!!!

2008-07-01T22:08:00.003-04:00

Daniel and I just can't enough of exploring other parts of the country/world. We love seeing unique landscapes, experiencing diversity and exploring the beauty of God's creation. We headed out to Colorado in early June for a family reunion, so we made a trip out of it exploring parts of Colorado and a glimpse of Utah. Other sweet highlights included spending some time with our close friends Andy and Lauren in Denver, hiking with Lauren B. up to a beautiful waterfall outside of Vail, celebrating our 4 year anniversary and experiencing the Telluride bluegrass festival. It couldn't have been a better trip...other than having more time!

Welcome Rachel Miriam Mayes!

2008-06-10T21:02:00.005-04:00

Daniel and I visited our new niece this past weekend. What a beauty! She was born May 30th, weighing 8 pounds 2 oz. She passed her tests with flying colors...what a genius! We are rejoicing in what a precious blessing she already is in our lives! Here are a few pictures...

Memorial Day Hike

2008-05-26T17:12:00.002-04:00

Virginia and I decided last second to make our way to the mountains for Memorial day. We were pleasantly surprised with the beauty of South Mountain State Park, only 1.5 hr from Charlotte. After a short, but steep hike we were blessed with the view of High Shoals Falls.

Northwest Adventure

2008-05-08T22:10:00.011-04:00

Megan and Virginia at the Seattle Market

California Redwoods

California Coast

Beautiful Sunset

The Golden Gate

Falls Creek Falls on the Oregan Scenic Byway

Victoria, British Columbia

Scene from the Butchart Gardens

Olympic National Park

Route 1 Bound

Early to rise, we're off to a land unconquered, beauty and mystery,

With maps in hand and packs on our back, we're ready for another adventure in McNamee history;

Seattle, a city of rain and cold, but aroma, diversity and culture intertwined,

On to Victoria, a ferry boat ride away; an undiscovered jewel, most will find;

Along the coast through Olympic National Park, first stop Mora to capture a heavenly view,

Snow falling, yet the golden Son beamed over the coast, reminded me of God's penetrating love anew;

The city of roses, Portland bound; a fun, vivacious, earthly feel, with overwhelming snowcapped mountain views,

A break from the hostels and tent was in order, a much needed night with a bed, shower and a long night snooze;

Down I-5, past Mt. St. Helens; then onto the scenic by-way, a mark of exquisite penmanship by the Creator,

Up to Crater Lake, with ten feet of snow enveloping the canvas, we decided not to camp and instead headed to the California shore;

The Oregon countryside was a beauty, with open seas of green and mountains surround,

We crossed the border and turned the page to another masterpiece which no comparison can be found;

The giant Redwoods stand alone in majesty and strength, the sun's fingertips brushing along the dense fern covered forest floor,

Hundreds of years these trees have stood; if they could sing, a symphony they would play, marking the crescendo and diminuendo of times they bore;

Down Route 1, winding along the Pacific coast, sheer cliffs to the right down to the sea, with our sights set on Mendocino,

Settling for the night at the picturesque John Daugherty House, we were pampered like a king and queen; a definte highlight and must go;

The Golden Gate blanketed in fog, we ventured into San Francisco as our last stop on our way,

The parks, the bay and people alike made it a favorite and oh, Ghiradelli Square...heavenly, I must say;

As our journey had come to an end; the punctuation made for the close of our chapter, we reflect with thankful hearts and humbly pray,

To the One enabling us; our breath, life and very being; Emmanuel, I am, Jehovah, Yahweh.

Congratulations Patrick and Lauren!

2008-04-04T13:38:00.002-04:00

The same weekend of my sister's baby shower, we also had a wedding shower for our sweet friends, Patrick and Lauren. They will be getting married April 12th and we are so excited for them! Sadly, they will be living 4 hours away from Charlotte, but that just means a great excuse for a road trip! As Daniel and I love road trips, we're already thinking of when we can visit!

Soon to be Aunt and Uncle!

2008-04-04T13:28:00.002-04:00

This was my contribution to the shower...a coconut-lemon cake...mmmm!

A few weekends ago, my mom and good friend, Faye, through a baby shower for my sister, Celeste. She is having a girl (name to be determined) and is due May 22nd. We are so excited for the new family addition! Congratulations Celeste and Paul. We are continuing to pray for you guys...what a sweet blessing this little one already has been!

Welcome Anna Kate Griggs!

2008-02-27T17:46:00.005-05:00

A few weekends ago, we went to visit some dear college friends and their newest addition down in Atlanta, GA. We had a sweet time together of shopping, eating yummy food, playing games, meeting Anna and visiting their church. Daniel and I also made an Ikea stop Sunday afternoon. Thank you for such a fun weekend. Your little girl is beautiful!

An Ephesians 5 Husband

2008-02-27T17:20:00.004-05:00

"Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her, that he might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, so that he might present the church to himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish." Ephesians 5:25-27

What a sweet blessing Daniel has been to me. The Lord has provided me with a man who loves Christ above all else, loves me unconditionally and imitates Christ to those around him. He captures the beauty in simplicity and finds joy in the minute. His character helps to sanctify me. I look forward to watch how the Lord will use him through life's symphony.

the mcnamee christmas adventure 2008

2008-02-25T20:24:00.001-05:00

Flowers of Charleston Gardens 2006

2008-02-24T17:21:00.003-05:00

a new/old video of our trip to charleston last year!

trip to st. louis

2008-01-22T19:39:00.000-05:00

virginia feeding the buffalo

riding up the arch!

world's largest briefs!

jeremy climbing around at the st. louis city museum

visiting the chappells

deep in thought

Happy New Year! We hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and 2008 has started out with lots of joy and sweet memories. We had a great holiday season, with spending Christmas day with the Soderbergs and New Years with the McNamees. Since Virginia had to be on call over Christmas, we spent it around Charlotte, but then headed to St. Louis, MO and Little Rock, AR to bring in the New Year. We went to a really cool museum in St. Louis called The City Museum (pictures above), which is basically a big playground for adults. We also laughed, relaxed, visited friends and family and ate lots. We can't wait to do it all again next year! PS: We promise to post more entries soon!

christmas tree time...

2007-12-07T13:39:00.000-05:00

charlotte's new light rail...there's a station near our house

road trip to jacksonville...go hokies!

2007-12-07T13:23:00.000-05:00

check out our parking spot!

the noon-free wedding!

2007-11-26T22:30:00.000-05:00

walking down the aisle

the raleigh clan

What a sweet weekend! We went to one my best friend's wedding up at the Maggie Valley Resort. Despite the chilly weather, everything was beautiful and a lot of fun. The events included meeting up with old friends, playing a cornhole tournament, feasting on yummy food and relaxing by the fire. Can't ask for a better weekend! Congratulations Amy and Ross!

ummm...need i say more?

2007-11-26T22:23:00.000-05:00

as we were enjoying an otherwise wonderful thanksgiving weekend at the soderbergs home in salisbury, we suddenly became aware of the neighbor's peculiar looking statue...

blacksburg weekend

2007-11-26T22:18:00.000-05:00

meredith and virginia at VT

aidan

Blacksburg, VA is the home of the Hokies. We visited the burg over the weekend and had fun, relaxing fellowship with some old friends. Meredith and I feasted over pumpkin chocolate chip muffins at my favorite coffee shop called Bollos. The time was sweet! We also had the pleasure of meeting sweet Aidan Andrews, a new addition to our friends, John and Catherine. What a handsome boy! And if the weekend wasn't perfect enough, VT pulled out another football victory...go Hokies!

home renovations continue...

2007-11-12T19:06:00.000-05:00

the fun part_demolition

the realization that demolition is over...and i have to fix the gaps...

quite a while later with some help from an electrician...

virginia has been very patient with the mess...and though i'm not quite finished, we both are happy with the new space!! now that we have a true living room everyone needs to come visit us!!

Virginia conquers the Baltimore Marathon!

2007-10-21T22:07:00.000-04:00

Post marathon...what running beauties!

"What am I doing?...Where is that finish line?"

Watch carefully...watch for the woman shuffling her feet...aka Virginia at mile 26.

So...I finally did it. I've been saying I've wanted to run a marathon for a long time, but never have until Oct. 13, 2007. Thanks to my running buddy, Lauren, I crossed the finish line of the Baltimore Marathon. Yes...I actually ran...or should I say shuffled 26.2 miles. The Lord blessed the day richly with beautiful weather, an awesome running route and a great run. My theme verse was Psalm 73:26, "My heart and my flesh may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever." So, on to the next challenge. Any suggestions?

down comes the wall!

2007-10-17T18:32:00.000-04:00

before

in the middle

finished...to be determined

So, Daniel and I were inspired by all the HGTV projects and decided to take a wall down in our house. It's quite humorous to watch Daniel and I work together. If it were up to me, I'd start knocking into the wall with wild abandon...if we run into a problem, we'll solve it then. Daniel, on the other hand, thinks about every detail and possible problem well before the project begins. Needless to say, in most cases, Daniel's way is much better...and probably safer.

Blog Slacker

2007-09-05T21:18:00.001-04:00

So, Daniel and I have this agreement that he deals with the technical posting of pictures and I'm supposed to do the writing. As you can see by the long delay with the writing of the previous posting, I am the slacker of the two of us. But, don't you worry...I am very faithful in reading others posts. I admit, I'm addicted to reading blogs. I love it...so keep em coming (and I'll try to do better too). As for the McNamee household, things are fairly unremarkable...the garden is producing tomatos left and right, only 5 more weeks left before the Baltimore marathon (I'm up to 18 miles next week-ouch!) and our Sunday night lifegroup is back in full swing for the fall. Stay tuned for more exciting updates;o)

the land of the waterfalls-transylvania county

2007-08-15T16:55:00.000-04:00

A couple of weekends ago, Daniel and I went camping with my family outside of Brevard, NC. Despite the hot weather, it was a blast! We ate hobos and smores over the campfire, went swimming in the waterfalls and even went blueberry pickin'! It was sweet time away from busy city life and very much needed!

sourwood inn...a pleasant respite from the city

2007-08-04T16:51:00.000-04:00

sourwood inn garden

enjoying a relaxing weekend

hike up to craggy gardens on a cloudy day

dedication...even on vacation

If you are looking for a sweet, quiet and relaxing place to get away, I highly recommend the Sourwood Inn off the Blud Ridge Parkway ("thank you" to mom and dad mcnamee for the gift certificate!). Daniel and I visited this sanctuary for the first time this past weekend and it was wonderful! Despite yucky weather, we managed to thoroughly enjoy ourselves. The weekend included soaking in bubble baths, eating yummy food, reading, photography and exploring the Parkway...one of our favorite spots close by. I am more and more convinced that the average Amercian lifestyle is way too busy and taking time to be still for His Glory is really more of what God intends for His people.

sunflower transformation

2007-08-04T16:44:00.000-04:00

it's bigger than me!

"Bless the Lord, all His works, in all places of His dominion. Bless the Lord, O my soul!" Psalm 103:22

"They shall speak of the might of your awesome deeds, and I will declare your greatness. They shall pour forth the fame of your abundant goodness and shall sing aloud of your righteousness. The Lord is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. The Lord is good to all, and his mercy is over all that he has made." Psalm 145:6-9

What an amazing Creator we have! The intricacy of this sunflower is such a testimony to God's imagination and sovereignty. Details are not forgotten, whether in the formation of a flower blossom or in our own lives. When I take a step back and remember this, it's easier to have an eternal perspective and unfading joy. Praise Him!

The Summer Sizzler trail run

2007-07-24T21:56:00.000-04:00

It's official...my friend, Lauren, and I have signed up to run the Baltimore marathon in mid October. We started our training in June and are now underway. So far, all has gone well and we are enjoying these recent cool mornings. This past weekend we ran in a 7 mile trail run up at Lake Norman State Park. It was a beautiful, shady trail. Lauren came in first in her age group and I came in second in my age group...Baltimore marathoners better watch out!

Crossing the finish line

Virginia, Lauren, and Patrick...we made it!

And we're off!

Warming up

Catching up on our blog...Summer 2007

2007-07-20T13:31:00.000-04:00

soccer camp

charlotte knights baseball

catherine soderberg's garden in salisbury

Grove Park Stay-Hmmm...Leave it or take it?

2007-07-05T20:52:00.000-04:00

Daniel and I spent last weekend in Asheville at the Grove Park Inn. I had a veterinary conference and couldn't pass up an all expenses paid weekend in the mountains, especially at the Inn. To give my honest opinion, I didn't think it was actually all that great. Yes, it is a beautiful building and area, but the service and accommodations were not worth the steep fare for a night's stay. I'd just as much rather stay snuggled up in a tent next to my hubby out on a mountain peak. I did, though, go on a sweet morning run, Daniel and I visited the Asheville arboretum and Daniel photographed along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Sounds like my kind of fun!

relaxing at the beach- Ponte Vedra, FL

2007-06-26T19:03:00.000-04:00

Daniel and I traveled down to Ponte Vedra, FL to spend about 5 days with his side of the family-what a sweet time! In addition to relaxing, sunning and sleeping, we met our newest family member, Christopher (see below)...so adorable! Some of the other highlights included taking walks/runs on the beach, watching dolphins surf the waves and witnessing a lightning storm pass over the ocean. What a blessing to spend time being still and awing over God's beautiful and powerful creation! I need to do this more often!

the sun rises over the horizon

little christopher brings another generation to the beach

an evening on the beach

chef jeremy prepares his famous kabobs

a night at the symphony

2007-06-03T23:10:00.000-04:00

We have officially been Charlotte-ites for 1 year...I can't believe how time flies. Although we were a little uncertain as to what the "big city" would bring, we have been pleasantly surprised as to how much we have enjoyed Charlotte. There is a lot to offer young people and families...great parks, a fun downtown, sports events, yummy restaurants, live music, festivals and sweet community. This past weekend we went to Pops in the Park with some Uptown friends-what a night of dining over fresh guacamole, sipping on wine and listening to the Charlotte symphony!

fellowship on a cool summer evening

"pops" in the park...thanks brad

hmmm...that guacamole looks good

oh the places an aerobie will fly...and not come back

our first garden...

2007-06-03T22:45:00.000-04:00

So, Daniel and I are trying our hand with gardening this spring and summer. We are hoping for the green thumb blessing... Regardless, it's been fun to work outside in God's beautiful creation. I am so amazed at the intricate detail and beauty of a single flower blossom. What a testimony to a Divine Creator. So far, we've planted tomatoes, peppers, basil, rosemarry and several perennials and annuals. We'll keep you updated on whether our thumbs are turning green.

wildflower growing in our creek

our first tomato! it still has a way to go

Our tomato stake contraption (upper left); baby sunflowers (upper right); the first-of many!-flower beds (bottom)

Favorite Photos

2007-05-28T21:40:00.000-04:00

Happy Memorial Day! We have had a great weekend...filled with music, cookouts, the Belmont drive-in (featuring Shrek 3 and Pirates of the Caribbean 3) and sleeping in! Thank you, Lord, for this weekend of relaxation and fun! Here are a few photos Daniel took a few months ago at Magnolia Gardens in Charleston, SC...except for Thor. He is the cutest choodle (chihuahua-poodle mix), owned by our friend Sarah Ann.

zinnia

yellow poppy

dogwood

and thor...the most beautiful of all...

strawberry picking in dallas, nc!

2007-05-19T22:23:00.000-04:00

What a fun Sunday afternoon! A group of Uptowners went to pick strawberries in the bustling metropolis of Dallas, NC. There's nothing like eating a juicy red strawberry fresh off the press and warmed by the sun! Unfortunately, my back decided to be in competition with the red berries, and I received my first sunburn of 2007...guess it's time to break out the good ole spf 50.

maggie dirks gazes in amazement

hard at work...

one carton almost full...

the crew plus jessica taking the picture

in the beginning...

2007-05-12T22:01:00.000-04:00

Our first home! 4142 Aycock Ln.

So, the McNamees gave in and started a blog...don't worry, no babies yet, just the girls, "Lilly" and "Dakota". We hope it is fun for all our friends and family to read and see pictures. As of now, we have officially been in Charlotte for almost one full year and are really enjoying the "city life." We have truly been blessed through a wonderful church family, home, friends and jobs and continue to explore the ins and outs that Charlotte has to offer. We are trying our hand at gardening this spring (anybody like tomatoes?) and hope to do more home projects through the next year. As the McNamee clan never ceases to entertain each other, we hope this life story will do the same for you. We'd love to hear input, insight and of course an invite to your blog along the way.