Blueberries & Special Thanks

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For many years we have waited for our blueberry bushes to bear fruit, and at last, due to the unfailing goodness of the Lord and the experienced skill of Michael Staddon, the first deliciously fresh blueberry pie made it to the table.

Thank you, Michael!

Praise waiteth for thee, O God… Thou visitest the earth, and waterest it: thou greatly enrichest it with the river of God… Thou waterest the ridges thereof abundantly: thou settles the furrows thereof: thou makest it soft with showers: thou blessest the springing thereof. Thou crownest the year with thy goodness…

Psalm 65

Additional Wedding Photos #3

Come, behold the works of the LORD… Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.

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He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform.

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The king’s daughter is all glorious within: her clothing is of wrought gold.

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I will praise thee, O Lord, among the people: I will sing unto thee among the nations. For thy mercy is great unto the heavens, and thy truth unto the clouds.

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I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels.

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Additional Wedding Photos #1

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Oh how great is thy goodness, which thou hast laid up for them that fear thee; which thou hast wrought for them that trust in thee before the sons of men!

For those of you who have so patiently waited for additional wedding photos, here they are at last. We hope to do a series of posts about that glorious day… so keep checking back!

 

Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Wilkes!

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My beloved is mine, and I am his.

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Behold, thou art fair, my love…

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First sight

My mouth shall speak the praise of the LORD: and let all flesh bless his holy name for ever and ever.

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Blessed be the LORD God, the God of Israel, who only doeth wondrous things.

Wilkes & Neelys - Age order

Wilkes & Neelys - Height order

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250 K!

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Milestones serve as excellent “stopping points” along the path of life at which to recall and communicate the providence and mercy of our Heavenly Father. Yesterday, shortly after we left home to enjoy an evening together at Wayah Bald, we encountered one of these important milestones: our van turned over 250, 000 miles! All those miles traveled together, and in safety, over the past 10 years, remind us of the beautiful truth that “Faithful is He that calleth you, Who also will do it.” The Lord has directed each trip, each opportunity for ministry, and He has faithfully provided and sustained. To Him be praise!

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Following that excitement and celebration (which we were privileged to enjoy along with Wes Barnes, loaned to us from his family for a few days), we spent the evening marveling the breathtaking scenery of Wayah Bald. As we stood looking out over the vast expanse visible from such a height, one person accurately summed up our feelings with the quiet reminder that “We serve a great Artist.”

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Memorial Day Picnic at the Brown’s Farm

The Neely Team

The wedding is over. The bins are put away. The bride and groom are on their honeymoon. All the extended family have returned home. And a holiday around the corner….

What is something we can do, to make some extra special memories as a family?

Mom and Dad had an idea! And an exciting one it was!!

So, the plan?? A trip to Wake Forest, NC for the Memorial Day Picnic at the Brown family farm! This annual event was attended by hundreds of people, the Gospel was clearly presented, and our veterans were honored. What a blessing it was to be there, and to enjoy the sweet fellowship with dear friends, and to meet new friends!

WWII veterans sharing memories (the four with matching ties are brothers!!)IMG_9010

Enjoying family and friendsTaking a bouncy, windy ride on a military vehicle

BBQ picnicSweet fellowship

Honor March: a march around the lake in honor of the many miles our veterans have marched.Military vehicles giving rides

IMG_9056Under the big red tent :)

Sweet sister timeSpecial Daddy time

Memory making with Mom

The idea was a success. As we drove home that evening, our hearts were encouraged, and gratitude filled us as we were reminded of the great sacrifice that thousands have given for our freedom. May we be faithful to the Lord, and stand for truth, for sake of generations to come and for the glory of our Lord!

Hanging out on the big rock

The Neely and Wikman families

Wedding Pictures!!

Here are a few pictures from Matthew & Amanda’s Wedding! We rejoice in God’s abundant goodness toward us, and praise Him for His continued work in our lives! Thank you to all of you who were able to participate in this special day, whether in person or via live streaming. It is our prayer that your hearts were drawn closer to our Heavenly Bridegroom as we look forward to His appearing!

 

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DSCF8007DSCF8036Their first kiss

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Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Wilkes!!Praising the Lord together

The expressions say it all :)

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The Car Crew carefully decorated the car so that M&A knew they were very loved.... but no practical jokes. :)Sisters

IMG_4594IMG_4598The happy couple.... We love you!

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Brothers--- a precious treasure

Amanda and her new sistersMothers

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The Neely Team

More pictures to follow….