Bragging Rights!

 Oh how I wish I had pictures today! I wanted to take my camera but didn't want to embarrass Charles so I didn't. Now I regret it and only have these articles that I shot with my camera of the events of today!!!.....This day I'm not bragging on my grandkids! Today I'm bragging on my SON! My firstborn!!! Sorry to brag, but this is worth bragging about!!! Charles was selected as one of 40 in the  22nd annual class of Birmingham's Young Business Leaders. They select 40 under 40 years old for that honor!!! And guess what? TWO from our family made the top 40!!!! Kimberly Powell, James' wife, was another one who made it! What an honor!!! The ceremony was held today---August 24, 2006 at the Wynfrey Hotel. Charles' law firm was there as well as our table---me, Terry, Rachel, Rachel's mom-Cathy; her dad and step mother--Jim/Carol and of course, the honoree: CHARLES! We saw Fred/Bette and James/Kimberly but were across the room so we weren't together but we cheered each other's wife/husband/son on!!! It was a wonderful, proud moment for me! All moments that my children do ANYTHING make me proud, but this comes from Charles' peers which makes it even more special. What an honor for one so young---not quite 34 years old!!!  He listed his mentors as his dad; his grandfather (my daddy!); Art Hanes, Jr.; J. William Rose Jr; and Hon. Judge J. Scott Vowell. I'm proud that he is an attorney but just as proud that he is a small group leader at Advent Episcopal Church and involved with Urban Ministries  and involved with Children's Hospital and Youth Leadership Forum and  the President's advisory council at Birmingham Southern College among many other things (see article). The nominator comments for him were given by Judge Vowell and were very touching. I know my daddy is smiling down from heaven today and I just felt him beside me as Charles walked up that podium. He was such an influence on Charles and encouraged him every step of the way. I wish he could have been there with us, physically, but know for sure he was there in spirit saying, as always, "Charles, I'm so proud of you". As a mom, it was one of those "glory days"--almost as special as the day he was born! (I love you, Charles and you will always be special in that you are the  FIRST one who propelled me into the role I love most---being a MOM! You were my first son/child and I am was so proud then ,and now, and love you so very very much!!!).