This week my family was able to join my mother and my sister's family for a five day getaway in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee in what we called the "Celebration of Life" Vacation. As many of you know, last summer my nephew Brad was diagnosed with a brain tumor. The situation looked scary at first but in the end everything turned out well. This trip was a victory festival of sorts to celebrate his clean bill of health. Also, since my son got saved last Sunday night, we decided it would be a "Celebration for New Life" as well.

My Brother-in-law is the pastor of Faith Baptist Church in Sylacauga, AL which is almost four hours away. Because of our busy schedules we seldom get to see each other. Our children are very close but are growing up separated from each other except for the daily phone calls. This week gave them a chance to get together just like old times.

When we arrived at our cabin on Tuesday, we rested and discussed our plans for the week. Our cabin had foosball and tables so we passed the first evening there. On Wednesday we spent the day riding go carts and enjoying the Dixie Stampede. The kids enjoyed the show, but my mother had the time of her life. I don't think I have ever seen her laugh so much in my life.

On Thursday we visited Wonder Works. This attraction is called "the Amusement Park for the Mind." We literally spent the whole day in the upside down building conducting experiments and having fun. We climbed rock walls, played LaserTag,experienced hurricanes and earthquakes and much more. This attraction consumed our whole day.

We started Friday off with a round of Putt-Putt Golf at Old-MacDonald's Farm. Brad and I tied for first place at 38 strokes on the 18 hole course. After that we raced go-carts again. Bro. Craig got revenge for the golf game by outrunning all of us on the track. From there we went to the Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies. After the Aquarium we visited The Comedy Barn. My son Jacob was called from the audience to participate in the show. He helped Clem the farmer replace some kid's lost shoe. It was hilarious.

Today as we drove back my Mom got to see what "real" mountains look like. The roadsides were snow covered and frozen waterfalls were everywhere. She'll be staying with us until Thursday. This week we had the time of our life this week and made memories that will last a lifetime.