A few weeks back we wrote about the upcoming Arkansas Diamond, and I just realized that I had not written a follow up! There were so many answers to prayer and exciting things that happened that I want to share! On January 25-28, we hosted the 7th annual Arkansas Diamond where 224 students and their families from 9 different states gathered to compete. We had 256 community judges come out to support the event. Between having enough judges and Eric’s crack facilities team switching room set ups quickly and were even able to start a few rounds EARLY (nearly unheard of at these events!) In the kitchen, we were able to keep all those judges, and our own staff, fed and happy for a record low budget. All good stuff, but I know, you want to know how the girls did. First, let me say that this tournament is the hardest for our own kids to excel at – they work hard setting things up before any other kids get there, they are often the last to leave as we parents stick around to wrap things up, and we had guests staying in our home that kept things a bit unsettled for them there as well. All this makes us especially proud when they get their names called for anything! Brenna qualified for Nationals in Apologetics (18 out of 53) and Amanda qualified in Original Oratory (16 out of 55).
While we have been on our Michigan trip, the girls went to another tournament with friends. This one was in Brentwood TN, and they had a blast! One unique thing here was this tournament hosted a ‘country line dance’ during dinner one of the evenings. Both Brenna and Amanda danced the night away – I cannot believe I missed that! Thankfully our friends texted us pictures, as well as results when awards night came. Brenna was 8th in Apologetics, and 6th in Original Oratory, Amanda 5th in Monologue and 1st – yest 1st in Original Oratory! Exciting stuff.
I do have to mention, though, that as excited as I am for the good results that the girls have seen this year, I am even more excited about the character that these events build. The goal of the organization is to raise kids who ‘Speak Boldly for Christ’, and I see that happening in both Brenna and Amanda. Pray along with us as we balance ministry, family, and educational interested (like speech & debate) – that God will direct the use of our hours every single day!