Ground Zero ~ September 10, 2011

We had meetings in NYC this past week. It was very surreal and sobering to be there near the 10th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on our country. I had a seminar to attend that day, but John and John, Jr. visited Ground Zero, the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island on September 10th. They saw many preparations for ceremonies to be held the next day, plus many people visiting that area to remember what had happened ("Those who forget history are doomed to repeat it."). There were lots of people handing out gospel tracts, using the moment to show people the hope we have in Jesus Christ. Here is John, Jr. standing at Ground Zero, which is behind him. Our hearts go out to the dear people who lost loved ones and friends as a result of this tragedy. It's hard to imagine. We have prayed for them through this difficult weekend.

Statue of Liberty and Statue of Liberty, Jr.!!

This was John, Jr.'s second time to the Statue of Liberty. Can you believe there are New Yorkers and others in the surrounding area who have never been to the Statue of Liberty? We were so excited for this opportunity. Because of the throngs of people there for the September 11th weekend, the advance tickets for the statue were sold out. They allow only 100 tickets that can be purchased on a first-come first-served basis. So they got up at 6 AM, got on the subway and arrived at Battery Park around 7:30 AM. The ticket office was to open at 8:30 AM. So they got some Starbucks and came back to the line at 7:45. The ticket office opened at 8:15 AM!! Others were lined up too. So it was a blessing that they got there when they did. They were the very first ones in line to actually enter the statue, too! I couldn't go because I had to speak at a seminar that day. After the Statue and Ellis Island, they got NYC pizza, which is a must-do when you're there. It is THE best! Well ... maybe. I do love Chicago-style pizza also. And I love Little Caesar's pizza......

Ellis Island, New York City

Here is John, Jr. on Ellis Island, in front of the immigration building where the immigrants would go through as they entered NYC. Lots of history here! John, Jr. really enjoys history. So thankful we can travel as much as we do and see so many historical places.

Making a Difference

The following story has been circulated for quite a while, and although it's fictional, it has a wonderful lesson for all of us who want to make a difference in someone else's life, especially our own children. Just wanted to share this with my blogging friends! http://www.makeadifferencemovie.com/

Some more NBT pictures

Just some random shots from Neighborhood Bible time in August. John, Jr. had such a blast!

Saline Rodeo

Here's another rodeo picture with the Slawinski boys. They had SO much fun! They ended up bucking broncos with each other! Kids are so much fun to watch. Misty and I had fun just talking and watching.