Henley Happenings

OKAW Valley Semi-Finals

2012-02-01T23:08:00.000-06:00

Monticello High School won their semi-final game on Tuesday night in the Okaw Valley Tournament. Saturday evenig they play in the championship game! They are on a hot winning streak!

Headline!

2012-01-21T14:31:00.002-06:00

#41 Doing His Thing!

2012-01-18T17:24:00.002-06:00

A few pics from Matt's game last week. Matt is a fierce competitor and loves the game!

Bits and Pieces of December

2012-01-11T18:28:00.000-06:00

Christmas Shopping with Carla, Carolyn and Nancy

Cookie Social - JD and Carla

Getting ready to ride at Silver Dollar City

The Annual Christmas Eve Photo

Henley Cousins

Jake and Matt

Christmas Day - Jake sporting new outfit

Henley Women on Christmas Eve

Colton showing off his new professional look!

Carla and Nancy at Silver Dollar City

Jim Martin's lights!

Eric and Kyle on Powder Keg at SDC

Kyle's Birthday - He is the ultimate Packers fan!

Annual Ornament Exchange

Lori, Rod, Marlin and Carolyn at Monticello Christmas Parade

Santa (JD) and his best elf, Marlin

Happy New Year!

2012-01-02T16:23:00.000-06:00

Happy Anniversary Lori and Rod

2011-12-29T00:26:00.000-06:00

Lori and Rod were married December 29, 1984. They have 2 sons Jake, 21 and Matthew, 16. Rod and Lori live in Monticello, Il where Rod is a chiropractor and Lori is a special education teacher. Wishing you many more years of happiness. May God Bless You and Your Family!

Thanksgiving 2011

Jake, Matt, Lori, Rod

Early Years

New Years Day 1986 Fox River Valley

Award Winning!

2011-12-24T01:04:00.000-06:00

Mother was quite surprised to look out the front windows and see the sign proclaiming we had won an award from the city of Bridgeton for our holiday decorations. The look is classic Christmas. It's hard to get a really good picture of how pretty the house is at night - drive by and see the lights! Nancy says some snow would really make it beautiful!

View from inside looking out bay window!

Happy 21st Birthday Kyle!

2011-12-20T00:02:00.000-06:00

Happy Birthday Kyle! Kyle is an avid sports fan and there isn't much he can't tell you about any current sporting event. He attends St Charles Community College studying computer applications. Kyle is a great guy! We are all proud of the man you are becoming. Happy Birthday Kyle Aaron!

Good Times at SDC

2011-12-18T22:50:00.001-06:00

We had a great time in Branson for our See the Lights weekend! The weather was great and we spent most of our time at Silver Dollar City! Great place to go if you need a helping of Christmas spirit!

23rd Annual Ornament Exchange

2011-12-13T21:05:00.000-06:00

Carla and Nancy have hosted an ornament exchange and appetizer tasting party for the last 23 years! We have so much fun. Santa and his elf make a return appearance this year.

Marcia - the life of a party!

Terri and Karen

Aren't they cute?

Jen and Alissa at the sing-a-long with Anne at the piano

Jd and Carla

Check out the fancy shoes the elf made for himself in Santa's workshop!

Happy Birthday Rod!

2011-12-07T00:02:00.001-06:00

Happy Birthday to Rodney Paul! Today we celebrate You! Wishing you a spectacular birthday!

Don't you love the evolving hair?

Happy Birthday Lori!

2011-12-04T00:01:00.000-06:00

Happy Birthday Lori Lynn! Wishing you a wonderful birthday filled with the things you love to do!

Getting the Holiday Spirit

2011-12-03T14:54:00.000-06:00

We went to the Monticello Christmas Parade today. Matt was at basketball practice and we did a little shopping and the parade.

Monticello High School Band

First Christian Church Singers

Mom and Dad with Lori and Rod

Tuesday Night Basketball

2011-12-01T11:28:00.000-06:00

Matt in action on Tuesday night! Looking forward to seeing him play this weekend!

Jerry Williams - A Special Guy

2011-11-27T22:09:00.000-06:00

Remembering Jerry Williams, longtime family friend. Jerry was a member at Maryland Heights Church of Christ and went home to our Lord on Friday, November 25th. Here are a few pictures I had in some old and more recent photos. Remembering all of his family in prayers, especially his wife, Pat.

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T14:43:00.000-06:00

We were taking some family photos and the guys decided to recreate an old photo scene!

Another season begins . . .

2011-11-22T09:19:00.000-06:00

Monticello High School basketball has begun! They had "Meet the Sages" last night! Matthew is #41.

Thankful for Precious Memories

2011-11-19T12:49:00.000-06:00

Colton, Kyle and Eric listening to Grannie O play the piano - 1997. The piano's home is now at JD's and Grannie O's home is heaven. Thank you Lord for special family memories!

Halloween Wrap Up!

2011-11-03T21:10:00.001-05:00

We had our Annual Halloween Open House. The weather was delightful and we had a great evening. We had over a 120+ friends, family, church friends and neighbors come and spend part of their Halloween with us!

They came as Cardinal fans - shocking!?!

Faye and Kerp

The Roades' Family came as Classic Halloween

Zoe the sweet bumblebee!

Sharon - Jeanne and Donna -what do they have in common?
All Harding graduates!

Reagin and Kary with Mr. Monopoly - Jeff!

Rumfelt Family

Love Jeanne's tights!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

2011-10-30T23:23:00.002-05:00

Happy Halloween! Lori, JD and Nancy around 1971.

World Series 2011 !

2011-10-29T01:45:00.001-05:00

Lisa and Nancy headed out in the 7th to Busch Stadium. Not so easy to find a place to park but did at 11th and Pine and walked to stadium. As we arrived at Busch the fireworks began to go off. Somehow we managed to ride a tide of people into the stadium. We made it to the bleachers and grabbed a spot to watch the festivities. We got stadium edition papers and then watched the crowd. Our final stop was Dick's for shirts! Thanks Cardinals for our 11th World Series Title!

Lisa took this as we arrived at stadium

The players and their kids playing on the field.

David Freese in his new ride!

Happy 75th Birthday Marlin!

2011-10-21T00:01:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday Marlin! Thank-you for the blessing you are to so many! We love you!

At his favorite place on earth Camp Ne-O-Tez

The Glory Days - when real men played football!

Silver Dollar City - Fall Festival

2011-10-14T22:29:00.000-05:00

Silver Dollar City was "all things Autumn"! The pumpkins, flowers, leaves, etc. We enjoyed two days of beautiful weather at SDC.

This is a new show in Branson and if you like classic country this is the show for you. Marty Haggard sings for about 2 hours classics of his Dad, Merle. We all enjoyed the show but Dad really liked the show!

Hanging Out in Hot Springs

2011-10-11T21:53:00.000-05:00

We spent Monday and Tuesday in Hot Springs. The hot waters from the spring are believed to have healing powers. The bath houses were very popular in the early 1900's There are seven of the original bath houses on Central avenue. Mother chose the Buckstaff for their authentic bath experience (Nancy and Marlin opted out!) It is a quirky town with some unique shops and folks! I enjoyed the historical aspects of the town. Here's a glimpse of Hot Springs . .

Inside the Fordyce Bath House which has been fully restored by the National Park Service.

Actual tubs used for bathing.

Carolyn had a bath spa and massage at the Buckstaff Bath which has been in operation since 1912

Dad caught a few z's while Mom bathed!

Water is 140 degrees - you can see the vapors

Row of bath houses in Hot Springs

Looking down on the Arlington Hotel - had dinner there on Tuesday

Lake Hamilton

This is the Hot Springs. We got tickled watching a group of tourists with wash clothes dipping them in the water and washing their faces, arms, and legs. Every store sells "jugs" that you can fill at different spots with water.

Clinton Presidential Library

2011-10-09T22:14:00.000-05:00

Marlin, Carolyn, Nancy and Colton spent the afternoon in Little Rock. The area along the Arkansas River is impressive. They have the River Market (which was closed today), a lot of places to eat and the Clinton Presidential library. Huge park area and you can walk across the river on a bridge. We took a trolley tour thru downtown Little Rock and North Little Rock. Great afternoon.

Proud Grandpa with his eldest grandson, Colton.

Our elementary education major checking out the education exhibit.

At the bridge where you can walk over the Arkansas River.

The school of the "Little Rock Nine".

It's Great to Be at Harding - Family Weekend 2011

2011-10-08T14:08:00.001-05:00

Happy 25th Anniversary JD and CARLA

2011-10-04T00:01:00.000-05:00

25 Years Later - May God bless you with at least 25 more!

Happy Birthday Nancy!

2011-09-24T00:01:00.001-05:00

Nancy One Year Old!

We love you and have enjoyed celebrating your birthday through the years.

Looking forward to many more!

Love, Dad and Mom

Camp Volleyball Tournament

2011-09-18T14:34:00.000-05:00

The Annual Camp Ne-O-Tez Volleyball Tournament was a huge success. We had 16 teams of teens from the Metro area competing. The concession stand was a great success. Marlin cooked 99#s of french fries. JD cooked untold amounts of hot dogs, hamburgers and brats. Uncle Mike was busy with corndogs and funnel cakes. The ladies of the family were helping all over :) We raised $2644 for camp!

Handsome Fans!

2011-08-31T21:11:00.000-05:00

Aunt Nancy thinks these are the most handsome Cardinal fans in the nation!

Happy 53rd Anniversary to Marlin and Carolyn!

2011-08-16T00:01:00.002-05:00

Married 53 years ago in Christopher, IL. What an example of Godly marriage to so many!

Baseball Heaven

2011-08-14T20:13:00.000-05:00

Friday night was a perfect night for STL baseball. We had a great time and the Cardinals won. Didn't matter to Aunt Nancy if the Cardinals won or lost she got to hang out with the best fans in baseball! Bonus was the Pattonville band played the National Anthem!

Happy 17th Birthday Eric!

2011-08-10T00:02:00.001-05:00

Happy 17th Birthday Eric! Eric is none too happy that he is starting school on his 17th birthday! The cool thing is Eric now has his own car and will drive himself to SCW! He is starting his junior year. Happy Birthday E-Man!

Ashley's Baby Shower!

2011-08-07T19:52:00.000-05:00

Ashley English Kuhn is having a baby and due September 12th! She and Jay are having a little boy. Mom, Carla, and Nancy were in Christopher yesterday for her baby shower. A bonus was meeting Eloise, Matt and Lindsey's little girl! It was wonderful to see everyone.

She is so tiny!!!!!!!

Matt, Eloise and Lindsey!

Stephanie and her darling girls Abby and Ashlynn.

Mom and Aunt Joyce!

Happy Birthday J.D.

2011-07-15T21:28:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday (one day late) to J.D.! We celebrated with dinner at Lewis and Clark's and then went to their house. Hope this is the start of a great year for you!

Loggin' some Miles

2011-06-27T20:15:00.000-05:00

Jake rode 35 miles Sunday in a charity bike event!

Catching a Break . . .

2011-06-24T15:53:00.000-05:00

Not exactly the kind of break you want to catch but on June 11th while Dad and I were fishing I fell. The gross part is that it was yucky fishy mud. The bottom line is that on June 16th I had to have surgery to repair the proximal humerus which was shattered in four places. The same dr who did Mom and Dad's shoulders did the surgery. I am now recuperating. The forced inactivity is the worst. The pain is tolerable. My parents and family have been incredible. I go back to Dr on tuesday and will see what is next. Thank you for all your prayers, calls, cards, food, flowers and more. It is appreciated.

A glimpse of Pre-Camp with our Family!

2011-06-08T21:31:00.000-05:00

Dad as the wacky tourist -where were we traveling each day?

and We're off to Camp Ne-O-Tez . . . . .

2011-06-04T08:47:00.000-05:00

Happy 22 - Colton!

2011-05-29T00:01:00.003-05:00

Happy 22nd Birthday Colton! We love you and are wishing you a marvelous year!

Here's what we are getting ready for!

2011-05-26T20:56:00.005-05:00

Camp Ne-O-Tez is a family tradition! We are getting ready to head to Pre-Camp on June 5th. JD and Marlin are directing this session. Mom, Dad, Nancy, JD, Carla, Eric, Lori, Matt, Aunt Carol, Uncle Mike, Katy, Jack and Zoe will all be there :)

Happy 16th Birthday Matthew!

2011-05-15T00:01:00.009-05:00

Happy 16th birthday Matthew Allen! Testing out your driving skills - are we ready for you to hit the roads of Monticello? Matt is a great guy! He is finishing his sophomore year at Monticello High School and we know his hobby - Basketball! Enjoy your day - we love you!

What an adorable guy - Matt was always good to make a mess!

HAPPY 16!

Happy 21st Birthday Jacob Paul!

2011-05-05T00:01:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday Jake! Jake is completing his junior year at Northern Illinois University. He is studying to become a soil scientist. He loves adventure - camping, backpacking, and rock climbing. Jake is an excelent student. We are proud of you and love you! Happy 21 !

Senior Year - 2008

Jake is an accomplished cook now!

Soil Analyst -testing their skills - Jake

2011-05-02T21:59:00.002-05:00

This past week Jake was in Bend, Oregon for a school competition in soil judging. Aunt Nancy is going to need to do some research to find out what all this means. Here are a couple pictures from their trip.

Hoppy Easter!

2011-04-29T21:14:00.004-05:00

Easter was a little different than we had planned this year! We always have Easter at our house with a yummy meal and big egg hunt for the kids. We had the food bought, desserts ordered and eggs filled but what we didn't count on was an F4 tornado! Thanks to Aunt Carol and Uncle Mike for taking everything to their home and making Easter happen there!

It rained so we put the eggs on the floor, covered them with a sheet and the kids took turns pulling out two at a time!

Reagin

Jack

Luke thought it would be the worst Easter ever with no egg hunt but we surprised him by showing up with the eggs and baskets :)

Katy

Mathew was a bonus as they weren't going to be here but ended up coming in to help with storm cleanup.

Eric's National Honor Society Induction

2011-04-27T17:12:00.004-05:00

Congratualtions to Eric on being inducted into the National Honor Society at St. Charles West High School. We are very proud of you!

Receiving his certificate.

Proud Mom, Dad and Kyle!

Grandma and Grandpa with the scholar.

Miss Retta is Eric's prayer apple partner this year. She went to support him.

Tornado Update

2011-04-25T16:14:00.004-05:00

Friday evening the Bridgeton area was hit by a F4 tornado. The sound and aftermath are nothing I had ever experienced. Mom, Dad and I are fine - we have a home still standing and repairable damage. We are without power but have a generator (posting from offsite). We have a great family, church family and Pattonville family. People are asking how can we help. Our damages are to the deck, the backyard - most of the trees are gone, garage, roof, ac, and the three vehicles. Below are a few of the pictures. Standing in our back driveway you used to only see trees now we can see clear to Harmann Estates. There are two homes just behind ours on Red Hawk that have been ruined. One is a home Dad built (side note when he saw home he said well we did something right as the main I beam is still in place). Our school district has staff and students who have no home and their lives have been devastated. If you want to help we are collecting supplies at Maryland Heights Church to deliver. We are collecting cleaning supplies, hygiene items, plastic totes. If you are on facebook go to the Pattonville provides page for more information. Thank you for all of you who have offered and come to help. God is good and he provided safety for our family. Our new view from back driveway.

Back window of Dad's truck gone - windows inside are for the First Aid Center at Camp Ne-O-Tez - the windows were unharmed :)

Deck roof down on deck.

Back drive area.

Jimmy (sporting the oh so stylish orange flower gloves), Jeremy, Carissa and Bob (not pictured) were there on Saturday morning to help! Uncle Mike was there cleaning up the back of the drive -so much debris and glass.

Our Christmas tree planted in 1970 was uprooted and took down the privacy fence.

Between our house and neighbors completely filled with large trees down. The pretty flowers survived.

Front of our house.

Lori, Rod, and Matt made a quick trip to STL and to help out. We went over to Taylor and they were lending some height to help. This is the home where Aunt Carol and Uncle Mike lived and Susan and Jill grew up in. That house is destroyed.

JD and Carla were in Searcy but quickly jumped in today with all kinds of help. We celebrated Easter. We were hosting but Aunt Carol and Uncle Mike stepped in took the food and we had Easter dinner at their home.

I ask that you continue to pray for those that are displaced and have so much damage. Mom, Dad and I know that God spared us from great damage and our lives and we are grateful.

Parent Sunday in the 2 and 3's

2011-04-19T11:11:00.003-05:00

For many years Carolyn and Nancy have taught the 2 and 3's Sunday School Class. These children are a delight and it is amazing how much they learn. We have been studying creation for the last 7 weeks and Sunday we invited the parents to class with their children. Each child got the book they had made and a special pillow for Day 7 -God Rested. Thanks to Marilyn O. for making the pillows! We made a banner for each day of Creation!

Working hard on our Day 7 banner!

Miss Mary helps us teach and Dad came as an observer. Matt and Andrea are proud parents watching Anna!

Day Three - God made flowers and grass and trees!

Day 7 - God has rested in His Heaven - look at them laying their heads on the pillows!

Train up a child in the way he shoud go . . . .

Things are Hoppin' at Crown Candy

2011-04-07T19:46:00.002-05:00

Mom, Dad and I had dinner at Crown Candy tonight. Wow - the Easter treats are amazing. We went to buy bunnies and eggs but we also had sandwiches and ice cream. No line to eat or for candy at 5:30 pm - that's the time to go! Notice that Mom is out and about and no cane!

Eric and The Pied Piper of Hamelin

2011-04-03T16:33:00.003-05:00

Eric was a stagehand and helped build the set for their school play at St. Charles West. It was the Pied Piper of Hamelin. The backdrop was beautiful - hours of stuffing tissue. Way to go Eric!

We're Ready for the Final Four!

2011-03-31T20:42:00.001-05:00

And you thought he only played football !!!!!

Ne-O-Tez Silent Auction - A Glimpse

2011-03-29T21:33:00.006-05:00

The Camp Ne-O-Tez Annual Dinner is this Friday, April 1st. The Silent Auction begins at 6:15 pm. Here is a glimpse of a few of the items:

Handmade Quilt by Kay Schmitke featuring the Scenes of Camp Prints

Adorable Knitted Chickens - $3 each

Beautiful Baby Set knitted by Kay Schmitke

Four Cardinal tickets and snacks donated by Carol Chaney

Incredible Praying Hands quilt embroidered and quilted by Marie Fitzgerald

Snuggly Afghan by Kay Schmitke

Some additional items:

Picnic and Breakfast Basket of home grown and canned items by Tim and Jeanne Beauchamp

"Green" Grocery Bags by Marilyn Ortbals

A Night at the Movies Basket

Stampin' Up Set from Wendy Martin

Tour of Busch Stadium led by Ed Tritschler (donated by Cardinals)

Several sets of Cardinal tickets

There will be much more that evening that folks donate!

If you need dinner tickets please contact your board represenative or Nancy Henley

She's a Nifty 50 - Happy B'day Carla!

2011-03-27T00:10:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday Carla Jean! May your day be as special as you are! We love you !

Just Hanging Out

2011-03-25T16:42:00.002-05:00

This week was Spring Break for Lori, Matt, Eric and Nancy. Lori and Matt came down for a few days and we had some good times. We spent an afternoon at Dave and Buster's, shopped for Blues shirts at the Mills, watched basketball, went to a Blues game and hung out. Kyle was able to join us in the afternoon and evenings. The three guys went to the Blues game and Lori, Carla and Nancy had a girls night out. Hopefully, it won't be long before Mother feels like going out again. Why does spring break go by so fast? Grandpa would like to think he is taller but the reality is .. . . . . . .

These two are the best of buddies!

Spring Break Traditions

2011-03-18T20:08:00.004-05:00

Each spring break the Henley guys and Aunt Nancy have a tradition . .lunch at Blueberry Hill, Gus's Pretzels and a trip to the Team Store at Busch Stadium. Colton and Kyle are on spring break this week and Eric had a 1/2 day on Friday so it was perfect.

The 50th Anniversary Party for Aunt Carol and Uncle MIke

2011-03-11T10:50:00.003-06:00

We had a great evening celebrating Aunt Carol and Uncle Mike's 50th Wedding Anniversary. They were truly surprised - Susan and Jill you did a fabulous job!

Their "son" Charles honoring them with comments about how much they have meant to him and what they have taught him.

So surprised to see Jill, Nick and Zoe. The grandkids could hardly wait for Pop-Pop and Grandma to arrive!

Granddaughters - Reagin, Katy and Zoe

Grandsons - Nick, Luke and Jack

Uncle Mike sharing some thoughts with all of us.

Each grandkid shared something special about their grandparents.

Brothers Mike and Marlin. Uncle Mike is having radiation onthe area around the eye so that is why the black spot.

Happy 50th Anniversary - Aunt Carol and Uncle Mike

2011-02-25T00:01:00.001-06:00

Happy 50th Anniversary to Aunt Carol and Uncle Mike! Wishing you all the best on this your special day! We Love and Appreciate both of You! Aunt Carol and Uncle Mike with me (Nancy)! This was in the fall of 1960 and they weren't Mr. and Mrs. yet!

Summer of 2010 - special people - loving and serving the Lord at Camp Ne-O-Tez!

They have 2 daughters (Susan and Jill), two son-in-laws and 6 wonderful grandchildren. They are a blessing to so many people. Thank-you Lord for Mike and Carol.

Fo-Jo - DeSoto, MO

2011-02-23T22:58:00.002-06:00

Mom was going through a box labeled "memories" and came across this film envelope from pictures taken in 1958. The coolest thing - FoJo is the company that takes our Camp Ne-O-Tez pictures. Dad remembers sending his film as a kid to Fo-Jo, I remember sending my 110 film there! Felix (Fo-Jo) comes ,takes the pictures and often in the same day is back with pictures and a CD. Isn't that neat?

Heart of Marriage

2011-02-14T12:12:00.005-06:00

Congratulations to Marlin and Carolyn who were honored with the CFS Heart of Marriage Award on Saturday Night. It was a beautiful night at the CFS Celebration of Marriage Dinner.

The dinner was at Eden Seminary. Steve did a wonderful job with his tribute to Mom and Dad.

J.D. and Carla before the dinner.

Special friends Jim and Jan Williams were there.

Mom and Dad with Chuck and Martha.

Mom and Dad - we love you and are so proud of the kind of parents, grandparents you are!

A Super Super Bowl

2011-02-07T12:03:00.005-06:00

We gathered at JD and Carla's to watch the Super Bowl. Kyle is an avid fan of the Packers and Eric of the Steelers - classic match up for brothers!

The cookie cake had both green/yellow and black/yellow sprinkles so we were ready for any team to win.

Eric sporting his "team garb"!

We missed Colton but by text and phone he was with us. Colton wanted to know if Grandpa liked the halftime show - Kyle was glad to report that Grandpa skipped the halftime show!

Who is getting the evil eye from J.D.?

It was a yummy party!

Dad wasn't asleep - just looks like it!

Kyle celebrates that the Packers won!

Sage of the Age

2011-01-31T22:04:00.002-06:00

Grandpa calls him the "Sage of the Age"! Matthew's official basketball picture from Monticello High School!

Saying Goodbye to the Carothers

2011-01-28T10:42:00.003-06:00

Wednesday saw us telling our friends Jason, Tricia, Sydney and Calvin goodbye (for at least a few years)! They are relocating to Everett, Washington. What a joy this family has been!

Dad offering a prayer in their behalf.

JD and Jason

Dad and Tricia served together in Nicaragua this past August.

Carla and Nancy had the pleasure of having Sydney in His Singers and then as a His Singers helper for a couple of years. Mom, me, Carla and JD have all had Calvin in Bible Class.

We love Harding!

2011-01-15T21:13:00.002-06:00

I love Snow!

2011-01-06T19:35:00.003-06:00

Nancy loves the snow - I love to take pictures and look at it not so much do I love shoveling the stuff! Some pics from Christmas! Appropriate shot for our guys!

Holiday Hoopla

2011-01-01T13:24:00.002-06:00

Here are a couple of pictures that were in the Monticello paper from the Holiday Hoopla Tournament. Matthew had a good solid tournament. Lori was in charge of the hospitality room for the three day tourney. GO SAGES!

HAPPY NEW YEAR

2010-12-31T23:36:00.002-06:00

1-1-11 Wishing you and your family all the best in 2011. May God pour out His blessings on you and yours.

Happy 26th Anniversary Lori and Rod!

2010-12-29T00:30:00.000-06:00

Wishing you a very Happy Anniversary. Lori and Rod were married December 29, 1984 at the Maryland Heights Church of Christ. May God Bless you with many more years together!

Christmas Day

2010-12-28T13:42:00.006-06:00

A snowy Christmas morning was the perfect backdrop for our family time. We started the morning with Carolyn's homemade cinnamon rolls and a special breakfast. On to the stockings and presents! Later that day JD and Carla's crew headed to Carla's Dad's home and the Kruse's and us had an early dinner. It was the merriest of times!

Ever the Joe Paterno fan!

The Tradition Continues . . . . .

2010-12-24T21:48:00.004-06:00

We gathered with the Henley's for Christmas Eve. We played games, ate and Santa Claus came to visit.

Uncle Mike and Aunt Carol with Marlin and Carolyn. From the two brothers we are a group of 24!

The cousins with Santa Claus . . .Colton joined us as soon as he got off work!

The older group of cousins . . . . . . .

The Grandmas . . .Carol, Carolyn and Dixie

Happy 20th Birthday Kyle!

2010-12-20T00:01:00.000-06:00

Happy20th Birthday Kyle Aaron! Kyle was born in a wild snowstorm on December 20th. Kyle is the ultimate sports fan and a great guy! Happy Birthday Kyle - we love you!

"Lighten Up - It's Christmas"!

2010-12-12T20:43:00.005-06:00

J.D., Carla, Kyle, Eric and Nancy headed to Branson for a Christmas Spirit weekend. We spent the day Saturday at Silver Dollar City.

Saturday morning at the Grand Village Shops - Nancy and Carla had to speed shop with three guys along!

The day started with nice temps and sun. . .

but once the sun went down and the winds started it got very chilly, very quickly!

22nd Annual Ornament Exchange

2010-12-10T12:06:00.002-06:00

For the past 22 years Carla and Nancy have hosted an ornament exchange and an appetizer tasting. We had so much fun last night!

Some of the ornaments! Singing with Ann. Ann plays Grannie O's piano. The piano was made in 1921.

Elf Marlin and Carolyn.

Santa JD and Carla. This was a first that JD and Dad made a surprise visit to the party! So much Joy!

Happy Birthday Rodney Paul!

2010-12-07T07:35:00.002-06:00

Happy Birthday Rod! We are wishing you a fabulous birthday! Enjoy - we Love You!

Happy Birthday Lori Lynn!

2010-12-04T00:30:00.001-06:00

Happy Birthday Lori! May your day be as special as you are! Let's celebrate you!

You are never too old for . . .

2010-12-01T14:22:00.003-06:00

matching Christmas pajamas! Mom got us girls matching ones and got herself some too! Merry Christmas!

Our Version of Black Friday

2010-11-27T21:26:00.003-06:00

We did Black Friday in our traditional way - no early rising or long lines just good times together at a relaxed pace! This year we started at Pottery Barn and then headed to Kirkwood and Old Town Webster Groves. Great time and some neat finds.

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-24T15:36:00.002-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving to you from the Henley Family. May your day be richly blessed. God has been so good to us this last year!

The Guild of Men Lives on . .

2010-11-20T18:59:00.003-06:00

After an early morning basketball practice Matthew and his buddies head to the woods . . . .

SCW Players present "Night of January 16th"

2010-11-13T23:03:00.004-06:00

Eric is a set builder and stage hand with the SCW Players. Tonight we went to see their fall play, "Night of January 16th". It all takes place in a New York Courtroom. The set they built was awesome. The play is good and the twist is each night there is a volunteer jury so nobody knows if they find her guilty or not guilty till the jury announces their verdict. Eric said they practice it both ways! The play is again on Monday night at 7:30 pm at St. Charles West High.

Part of the courtroom. The judge Brad was in band with Colton and Kyle. This is his senior year.

The two ladies steal the show!

Proud parents!

Part of the group. .

Way to Go Matt

2010-11-12T09:04:00.000-06:00

Congratulations to Matt Kruse for earning a PRIDE award this week. PRIDE stands for Personal Responsibility In Daily Effort. Thank you to those who make Monticello High School a better place to be through their good work, actions and deeds. Matt will receive a free PRIDE t-shirt from Herff Jones and a certificate for a free dinner from El Toro Mexican Restaurante in Monticello. Keep up the great work!

This was a posting at Monticello High School today.

It was a "Boo"tiful Halloween!

2010-11-01T16:19:00.005-05:00

The weather was perfect, the kids young and old came in fun costumes, good friends and yummy treats made for a perfect evening. We were blessed to have many of our friends and family join us for our Annual Halloween Open House. Here are a few pics from the evening! Aren't they cute? This was Corrina's first trick or treating experience. The veterans Kalista, Isaac and Emma showed her the ropes!

They always have "spook"tacular family costumes! The Scooby Doo Gang!

Good friends make the night special.

Jimmy, Amber and Corrina joined us for the evening.

What an "udder" surprise to open the door and find Sharon and Mike in costume! The cow and crazed farmer.

We have come to expect the outlandish from Susan and now Jeff and Connie have stepped it up to a whole new level!

Love the Mommas and their kids!

Kyle and Eric humoring Grandma and getting their picture made with her.

JD and Carla -getting the party started.

Big Gangster Jeff with little gangster Jack!

Fall Festival

2010-10-25T14:42:00.008-05:00

Last night was our Fall Festival at church. This is an event for the whole family. Hot dog roast, s'mores, games, pumpkin carving, Pumpkin Glow and Treat walk. We had a great evening. It was great to have so much of "our" family there for the night. J.D., Kyle, Carla and Eric. Colton had been home for fall break but had to leave right after worship to head back to Harding.
For the first time ever the rain forced our Pumpkin Glow and Treat Walk indoors! Kids still had fun.

For those who prefer a pre-cooked dog J.D. grilled up a "mess" of dogs!

Mom and Dad

Luke, Reagin, Jack, Mark, Katy and Susan - each year they join us for the Fall Festival.

Dad and Uncle Mike each sproting their team wear! Uncle Mike is giddy with the Mizzou win!

Eric and his special friend Logan. Eric and Logan share a special friendship from Ne-O-Tez.

Jack and Nick - Nick and Zoe were in town visiting their grandparents, Aunt Carol and Uncle Mike.

Aunt Carol and Uncle Mike working on Zoe's pumpkin!

Reagin is very serious about her pumpkin carving.

What a beautiful smile Luke has!

HaPpY BiRtHdAy MARLIN!

2010-10-21T00:01:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday Marlin Dean. Marlin was born October 21, 1936 to Cyril and Lydia Henley. Thank you for being an example of a Godly man, husband, father, grandfather, leader, teacher, mentor, camp director and. . . . .on and on! Blessings to you on your special day. We love you! Two Years Old
Making his famous fries at the Camp Volleyball Tourney - in case you didn't know Ne-O-Tez is his passion!

Working in Nicaragua this past August!

Murray State University -oh how he loves to watch college football!

Teaching Bible class at a boys session of Ne-O-Tez!

I wonder if he used his "country music song" references on these campers?

Clarksville Apple Fest

2010-10-18T17:31:00.005-05:00

October 9th was the Apple Fest in Clarksville, MO. Mom and I met up with the Lingua ladies at the parade and then checked out the displays, stores and more. We then went to the Lingua farm for our pumpkins. Here is some of their bounty . . Jimmy and Corrina were also at the festivities.

Kalista and Lexi waiting for the parade to begin.

Isaac and Gracie are quite the duo!

Corrina taking in the scene.

Megan got a break from working in the pumpkin fields for the day - she was about asleep waiting for the parade to begin.

The Grandmas waiting for the action! I think Sandi knew at least 80% of the people we saw!

"Sisters" The other sister, Amy was in the pumpkin field! She is the farmer chick!

Back at the Lingua's home!

Family Weekend at Harding

2010-10-10T14:18:00.003-05:00

JD, Carla, Kyle, Eric, Marlin, Carolyn and Nancy went to visit Colton at Harding University for Family Weekend. We had a wonderful visit. Colton loves Harding! It had been 26 years since Mom and Dad had been back.

In front of the Benson Auditorium.

Saturday evening we went to the Harding football game.

Trying to get a picture of these three is almost impossible!

It was so windy and cold at the football game. We stayed till the 4th quarter and HU was winning big so we headed out.

Friday evening Nancy went to Harding Academy Homecoming. What a blessing to pick up with friends you haven't seen for 22 years. Oh, the tie that binds.

SCW Homecoming Parade

2010-10-07T17:43:00.003-05:00

Eric participated in the SCW Homecoming Parade today. He walked with the drama group working on the fall play. Eric is a set builder and stage hand. It was a beautiful day for a parade. Tossing out tootsie rolls!

Wouldn't seem like a parade without a picture of the SCW Band!

Eric is in the class of 2013!

Happy 24th Anniversary JD and Carla

2010-10-04T00:01:00.001-05:00

Happy 24th Wedding Anniversary to JD and Carla! Wishing you all the best today!

Harding University, october 2, 2010

I want my picture with Matthew!

2010-09-28T11:06:00.003-05:00

Sunday afternoon before we left Monticello we all decided we needed our picture made with Matthew. He was a good sport and posed for the pics! Matthew is 15 and a sophomore at Monticello High School.

Happy 50th Nan-Ann

2010-09-24T00:10:00.001-05:00

Happy 50th Nan-Ann: What a Gal? Mom and Dad's first child. Born in Hammond, In on 9-24-1960. Girl Scout, wearing glasses at age 9, 11th and 12th grade at Harding Academy (won the Betty Crocker Cooking Award), Harding University Graduate (Business Economics), Missionary in Papua New Guinea, and now Director of Accounting for Pattonvile School District, Camp

Ne-O-Tez treasurer, Fellowship Ministry Leader at Maryland Hgts, what a Gal!

Thank-you , Lord for Nan-Ann. Mom and Dad One Year Old
Senior at Harding University

Junior Year at Harding University

Four Years Old

Five Years Old

May 1982 -Harding University

1988 - Harding Academy 10 Year Reunion

1978 - Senior Picture

6 1/2 Years Old

St. Ignace

2010-09-22T20:21:00.003-05:00

Spent part of the day in St. Ignace. I was so proud of myself for driving us over the Mackinac Bridge. It is a 5 mile suspension bridge that takes you to the UP. One side is Lake Huron and the other is Lake Michigan - they meet at the Straits of Mackinac.

From the boardwalk in St. Ignace - Lake Huron

This is part of the old ferry that was used to move rail cars over from lower to upper Michigan.

Soo Locks - Sault Ste Marie

2010-09-21T20:50:00.004-05:00

Soo Locks were fascinating. We took a boat tour that takes you through the locks. Lake Superior is 21 feet higher than Lake Michigan so you have to be raised and lowered to go between the lakes. We went in the waters of Canada. Lake Superior is magnificent. The leaves were also changing and it was a beautiful drive. It rained while we were on the boat so we got a little soggy! International Bridge

Preparing to enter the McArthur Lock.

Mom and Dad while we were wating in the return lock - lowering 21 feet.

Out at Lake Superior - you can tell the wind and rain had done a number on me!

The Grand Hotel

2010-09-20T21:22:00.004-05:00

We checked out the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island today. It is a privately owned hotel. No we didn't stay there! Dad got a taxi for us when we got to the island - horse drawn.

The interior of the parlor floor.

The porch is 650 feet long and the view is breathtaking.

Mom and I had to sit and rock on one of the 90 rockers on the porch. Kind of puts Cracker Barrel and their rockers to shame!

Mackinac Island

2010-09-19T20:55:00.002-05:00

Sunday we took the ferry over to Mackinac Island and spent the day. We did a carriage tour that lasted a couple of hours. So different - no cars - bikes and horses.

Lookout area above Arch Rock. Overlooking Lake Huron.

Mom and Dad in front of the summer home of the Michigan Governor on Mackinac Island.

Maciknaw City

2010-09-19T07:11:00.004-05:00

We arrived in Mackinaw City on Saturday afternoon. The leaves are changing on the way up. The high here was 57 degrees yesterday. Mackinac Bridge - 5 mile suspension bridge

Lake Huron - I put my hand in the water - cold!

Standing on the Lake Huron side of the bridge taking a picture of the sun going down over Lake Michigan.

Day One - South Haven, MI

2010-09-17T20:33:00.007-05:00

Our first stop was South Haven, MI for late afternoon/early evening. Lake Michigan is beautiful and the area where we were was charming. Mom and I hit a few shops! We ate dinner outside at Joe's Bar and Grill. Headed to Grand Rapids to spend the night. A great start to our trip.

CC - I thought of you when I saw this knitting shop!

Camp Ne-O-Tez Volleyball Tourney

2010-09-14T12:25:00.004-05:00

Sunday was the annual Camp Ne-O-Tez volleyball tournament at Maryland Heights. It was a great day for camp and the kids had a ball. I didn't get a ton of pics since we were all busy running the concession stand. JD and Dan Turner are the grill masters. JD has been doing this for years.

The last couple of years Dad has started the french fry tradition. He did 69# on Sunday!

Mom is his efficient assistant!

Uncle Mike is famous for his delicious funnel cakes - there is a line all day for them!

Kyle was helping everywhere - what a great guy!

This is one of the very rare moments when Carla sat down. Eric was playing but somehow I have no pics of that event!

Always fun to have friends there for the day . .

Chuck is the announcer!

Our precious friend Karen - she also jumped in to help us clean up!

Jimmy taking in the volleyball tourney from the "preacher" side - not the youth minister side!

Loren is checking out the action!

Updates from Lori . . .

2010-09-09T12:12:00.004-05:00

The last few weeks have been busy as Jake moved into an apartment and started his junior year at Northern Illinois University and Lori was responsible for getting a chapter of Fellowship of Christian Athletes set up at Monticello High School. Jake is doing well and loves living in the apartment. FCA had a huge response to their kickoff picnic. Lori called this morning and was thrilled that they had 55 students and 5 coaches show up for their first huddle meeting before school today. What a positive way for student athletes to get the day started. (Pics are random order because I couldn't get them to load the way I wanted!)

Jake's bedroom in the apartment. Below Jake on move in day!

Kitchen in apartment - note this is move in day - do you think it still looks like this?

Some of the kids at the FCA picnic .

A glimpse of Harding. . .

2010-09-06T20:24:00.003-05:00

This is a picture that Colton's roommate, Tim took of him on campus! Uncle Bud, Ken Davis, was the choral director and a giant on campus when Nancy and Lori were in school. This statue of him was just added to campus in August.

He's Home!

2010-09-04T22:02:00.005-05:00

Dad is back from Nicaragua. Here are a few pics he took - there are more posted on Facebook. So glad he is home and we are proud of him!

Typical scence on the road.

Florist

A village woman washing clothes on a washboard outside her home.

Project Hope - Nicaragua Update

2010-09-01T21:08:00.004-05:00

These are some pictures that I "lifted" from facebook of their time in Nicaragua. Dad called tonight and things are going well. Tonight's activity, after building walls during the day, was to bag beans and rice in 10 pound bags. Dad said it is such an impoverished area where they are. Here is a glimpse of their work . . .

Streets on Sunday - flooding from rain.

Taken tuesday - don't know when I have seen Dad look so grubby!

Dad and Tricia working together.

On the bus ride back to where they are staying - he fell asleep! As Grannie O would have said, "Marlin, you are just wore out!"