Rejoicing with Those who Rejoice

We have had two special family events to celebrate this week.  This past weekend, we went to Lubbock to attend the festivities honoring my brother-in-law, Kirk Lewis.  He was recognized as one of four Texas Tech Distinguished Alumni for 2011.  Kirk is the Superintendent for Pasadena Independent School District.  Because of his commitment and contributions, he is making a difference for students, faculty, staff, families, and the community. 

My mother and 17 members of our family were in Lubbock to celebrate the event.  Randi, our niece from Albuquerque, is a Texas Tech graduate and is now in her third year of pursuing a Doctorate in Audiology and Balance.  We loved getting to visit with her again.  The minister of music and his wife, from South Main Baptist Church in Pasadena, were also there to help honor Kirk.

Mom and the grandchildren who could attend

Kevin, Adam, Sarah, Randi, Andrew, Jordan
Adam made sure Texas A&M was represented
at the Texas Tech event with his Gig 'em!

There was a dinner on Friday night at the Merket Alumni Center.  When we arrived, we met in the reception area to visit.  My sister noticed a yearboook on one of the tables and discovered that it was the 1951 La Ventana, the year my parents graduated from Tech!  It was fun to look through the annual and find Mom’s and Dad’s pictures. 

Dad's picture lower left
Carl W. Schoeffler, La Marque

Mom's picture on bottom
Glenna Hackney, Lubbock

After the meal, words of tribute were spoken about each honoree and a video was shown; they were awarded a medallion and plaque.  Then each recipient was given the opportunity to speak.  Kirk’s speech was outstanding and from the heart.  What a proud moment for all of us.

Kirk giving his speech

Kirk and Robin Lewis

We went to the Texas Tech vs. Oklahoma football game on Saturday or rather we visited the stadium.  It was the worst Tech football game is history.  The recognition of the four Distinguished Alumni at halftime was definitely the highlight of the game, but again it would have been the highlight for us even if it had been the best game in Red Raider history.
 

Halftime Recognition
Kirk is on the far right

Kirk clapping

Kirk and Robin's grandson, Eli, with cousin Sarah
Adam, Eli's Aggie dad, allowed him to wear the
Texas Tech outfit for this event ONLY!

After the game, we visited with my cousin’s family.  It was so good to see Bill, Donna, Tyler, and Justin again.  We also went to see another cousin, Elizabeth and her husband Kirby.

On Tuesday night, we attended a dinner honoring my youngest sister, Micki.

Kevin, Micki, Sarah, Mark
Richard

Micki retired from a 30 year career in education.  She taught math for 2 years in Arlington, 1 year in Pasadena, and 27 at Deer Park High School.  She was the High School Math Instructional Specialist the last 3 years.  Micki has also taught math at San Jacinto College and will continue to do that.  Since she retired during the summer, she thought she got by without a big party.  Even though teachers at her school had celebrated with her, some church friends wanted to honor her as well.

Micki visiting after dinner

Micki opening gifts and cards

Micki is one of those people that God has gifted with the ability to teach and make a difference.  Whether it’s math, lessons for life, Sunday School or as a sponsor for church youth camp, youth choir, or a mission trip, she challenges, encourages, and helps kids (and adults) reach their potential.  She is such a joy and blessing to all of us.  What a great week of celebrating and rejoicing with family and friends.

Romans 12:15a

Rejoice with those who rejoice;…

I Corinthians 12:26b

…if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it.