Eagles Wings Publications

This page is dedicated to our "Angels"

~ if only all the arms that reach could touch ~

"whether I influence the lives of others, produce works of art, or live my life in an extraordinary way, my inspiration comes from the Spirit within." - Daily Word, Jan. 28, 2007

The "Angels" who have been sent our way are too numerous to mention.

You may or may not know who you are, but know that you are deeply appreciated.

The story in pictures! May, 2008

Chip gets a little refreshment!

Charlie and Chip

Charlie and "Bud"

Annie and Marquel go to Summer Camp!

Annie and Marquel have been looking forward to camp for weeks. They were not sure exactly what "camp" meant, or what they would be doing, but they thought it sure sounded fun.

Saturday, June 30th, we packed their suitcases, checked the list twice, and they settled down for bed. Unable to get to sleep, Annie asked me what they would have to eat at camp, and if they would have snacks. I assured her that they would have lots of good food and probably some snacks as well. She smiled and turned over to go to sleep. I asked Marquel if she was looking forward to camp, and she stated that when she doesn't know people she can be a bit shy. I told her that was ok, that she would make friends fast. This seemed to calm her worries and she was soon asleep as well.

Sunday, July 1st we arrived at Camp Chrysalis, a Lutheran Bible Camp located near Kerrville, Texas. The counselors and staff were there to welcome the girls, surrounding the car as we got out. Their counselors were quickly rounded up and we took their suitcases, pillows and sleeping bags to their cabins. As we left, Annie was standing with her counselor, a drink in one hand and some snacks in the other. The grin on her face said it all!

We sent along notes with little surprises to open each day, and sent them emails as well. Each day they played games, made crafts, went on hikes, went swimming and canoeing (when it wasn't raining!) and had lots to eat! They heard Bible stories and learned lots of new songs.

On Friday, July 6th, we picked up two very tired little girls! Back at our house, after a nice long bath, they sang all their new songs to us as we sat on the back porch. When it was time for bed, Annie prayed for us. We were very happy that she learned to pray her own prayer, in her words.

We want say a VERY BIG "Thank you" to Cross Trails Ministry and another "Angel" who sponsored this wonderful learning experience for Annie and Marquel.

You can see more camp pictures by clicking on the following link - then click on week of July 1-6 under Camp Chrysalis to see more camp photos:

http://www.crosstrails.org/Summer Photos.htm

(if they are not posted yet, please check back)

Marquel LOVES Soccer!

Bike Rides

Fun at the River!

When an "Angel" sent us some money, we knew just what we would use it for!

A few miles from our house is a State Park with a river that is shallow enough that the kids can swim and play without too much worry. The water is clear, the "beach" is smooth rocks, and the bluffs on the other side of the river create a serene atmosphere. A year pass will provide many weekends of fun!

Because the river is shallow, the water is warmed just enough by the sun that it feels wonderful on a hot day. The water flow is just fast enough that the kids can float in the current, but shallow enough to put their feet down to stop. Even Chip can play in his little "floatie" outfit.

A big Thank You to our "Angel" - Nan!

Marquel and Annie

"Miss Debbie" comes to Visit

Randy's sister, Debbie, came to Texas to spend a week with us. Marquel and Annie would be going to a church summer camp, so Debbie wanted to give Charlie a little special time of his own.

For a really special excursion, Miss Debbie took us to Sea World. At first Charlie was a little apprehensive, not sure what to expect. But after we coaxed him onto a ride, he was anxious for more! He enjoyed all the animals, a few of his favorites were Shamu, the cats, dogs and birds that put on a show, the sting rays, eels, and oh yes, that yellow stuff that "Spongebob" is made out of! Last but not least was "Bud" the Budweiser horse.

Miss Debbie is a Elementary Teacher and soon had Charlie reading his very first book! Thank you Miss Debbie for coming to visit and having so much fun!

Miss Debbie reading to Charlie and Chip

Annie and counselor Elise

Annie and counselor Emily

Marquel and counselor Morgan

Annie learns about skunks!

Many happy hours are spent riding bikes! To the park or just a block to the grocery store, they are always ready to go.

When we needed a baby seat for Chip, you responded. Bottle in hand, he brings his helmet to Dad. "Bike" was one of the first words that he learned to say.

Thank you to the Angels who gave this family so much fun time together.

New Friends in San Antonio

At the 1st anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, there were many stories of survivors. Turk and the kids were featured on the local ABC TV station, and then their story was broadcast all over the country. Friends and relatives called from as far as California to say they had seen it.

The reporter and his wife, along with their two girls have become great friends and supporters of the Thornton family.

A BIG thank you for the friendship and support!

I Love You Gabriella!

Dedication

February 10, 2008

Surrounded by many of our "Angels", Randy and I accepted the opportunity of becoming Godparents to "our" kids.

The ceremony was held at Temple Missionary Baptist Church, where the Thornton family has been welcomed with open arms.

While we love the kids as our own, this Dedication will give us Legal Guardianship of the kids in the event that Roosevelt could no longer care for them. We are thankful for his trust in us.

We were blessed with the show of support by many of our friends who came to witness our dedication, and by the thoughts and prayers of so many who could not be there.

Special thanks to Jim and Janet, Kent and Deanna, Mardi and Gerry, Hank and Mary, Teresa, Tom, Miss Rose, Pastor Glover, and all the members of Temple Missionary Baptist Church!

Back row: Pastor Glover, Roosevelt, Randy

and Stephanie holding Chip

Front Row: Charlie, Annie and Marquel

Thank You to all the friends who joined us!

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