Life as of Late

Things have been pretty hectic around our house! As of a week ago, we are moving to Hattiesburg! Long story short, we have been praying for direction and guidance as to J's youth ministry position. God is so good and within 2 weeks of praying these prayers, J had received about 5 phone calls from pastors wanting to meet with him about the possibility of becoming the student minister at each of those churches. Let me backtrack a bit, we have loved being a part of starting Wesley Chapel and have learned a ton from the experience but things are beginning to transition and J's position was more than likely going to become part time. Therefore for the sake and livelihood of our family, it was wise to ask God for wisdom and direction as to where He would have us serve. The last few weeks have been very exciting! J began having conversations with the pastor at Heritage United Methodist Church in Oak Grove. Things progressed and after several meetings J was offered the job and we took the position. We are so excited to become a part of this amazing church! It is growing like wildfire with people who are truly seeking the Lord and it will be incredible to be a part of such an awesome congregation. We are also pumped to have so many students already in place so that we can focus on discipleship. We have spent the last week painting, staging the house (I knew all the HGTV would come in handy!) and now the house is on the market. If anyone knows of anybody looking for a house in the Jackson area, please send them our way. We will be heading to Hattiesburg sometime in July (not really positive about the exact time yet) and can not wait to see what God has in store for our family, the students, the community and the church as a whole!

Now, on to some of Ella Kate's favorite things as of late:
She is loving being outside (definitely got this from J and not me since I do not like to sweat!) and she really loves to swing. She would stay outside all day in the swing, however due to the Jones family pale skin, we can only stay out for short periods of time to avoid the ole sunburn!
Ella Kate also really enjoys playing in Haley's laundry basket. I know, great toy, right? Today Haley attached a long handle to the basket so she could pull it easier. They made laps around the downstairs at mama's house for a while. Very entertaining!
This kid loves to read books! This picture was snapped as she read "The 5 Little Ducks" book. It is one of her favorites and she is so proud to point at each duck and say "duck." (I must say that I am very proud of her as well!) She is quite the talker. Excessive talking to come in her future, no doubt!

One last thing:
This past Saturday, some sweet friends and I had the privilege of hosting a baby shower for my dear friend Sally Saulters Ray and baby Vera Kate. We had such a fun time eating, catching up, and checking out all the baby things. We can not wait to meet sweet Vera Kate in July. Ella Kate is super excited to welcome her DG little sis into the world!!!! Pictured below is EK's DG big sis Mary Reeves. I know, I am a bit ridiculous!!!

The Grandmamas and their girls

Mitzi Bailey aka "M", Mary Reeves Gordon, EK, and my mama "KayKay". I know these girls will be great friends just like their mamas!!!