So long, 2016

When 2015 had gently surrendered its hold on our calendars, 2016 kicked the door down and began with a tirade. Somehow, it managed to pack in the Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, a contentious presidential election, the Cubs winning the World Series, as well as several personal milestones.

In 2016, we bought a new home in Blacksburg that we love and is incredible for hosting our small group, friends and gatherings. Adelyn started her senior year at Blacksburg High School, and Sam moved into his own apartment in Charlotte.

I began teaching through the book of Acts in a prolonged sermon series, and as winter approached at the end of the year, I cut my own firewood for the first time in my life.

Here are the monthly highlights:

January

Snow in Blacksburg.. which necessitated the annual Slanket Sermon for Northstar when we had to cancel church.
It was also the first year that we’ve gotten to witness the Cadets vs. Civilians Snowball Fight on the drillfield at VT.

February

A Texas trip for Carolyn’s grandfather’s funeral, which I had the honor of preaching.
Carolyn and I hiked Barney’s Wall.
People got tired of me posting pictures on Instagram of the Huckleberry Trail in the snow.

March

Took Adelyn on a college preview trip in which she eventually chose Christopher Newport University.
Sam came home from Charlotte for his birthday.
A lightning storm caught the roof on fire at Blacksburg Middle School. Fortunately, it didn’t cause Northstar to miss meeting that Sunday. Workers found “Jesus” painted on the fire wall near the roof. I swear we didn’t do it.