Well, it has definitely been an experience.  Lacey’s two year ride with American Idol (which included a bus load of people I’ll name in a moment) was fun and absolutely intense!  But then, I’ve always loved roller coasters.  It actually continues even though she was voted off last week.  She’s scheduled to appear in the Finale show, singing with the Top 12 at least one more time.  Plus she’s still doing radio and television interviews.

Connie and I are so very proud of Lacey.  To get to the top 12 is phenomenal!  As my son-in-law Brian Gibson said, “She beat over a hundred thousand contestants and lost to only eleven!”  There are no losers at that level.  Only winners!  Lacey is for sure a winner.  Her unique tones, voice, genre’, look and style are destined to take her far.  I believe in her.  Her interviews have revealed her intelligence, sweet disposition, charm and class.  Her appearance on David Letterman’s Late Show this week proved every point that needs to be proven to any out there who didn’t believe in her or appreciate her performances.

I believe in Lacey!  By the way, her goal has never been to be a Rock Star (although that is one of my nick names for her).  Her dream has been “influence”.  She wants to lift hearts, inspire good, bless listeners and yes, also be a living witness to God’s goodness whenever she is able.  We need Christians who will sing good news to the world.  I think Lacey is called to it!

Lacey has served in her local church all of her life, attended and graduated from Victory Bible Institute in addition to completing two years of college, fulfilled an intense one year ministry internship at Guts Church in Tulsa, has served in short term missionary work in Honduras, plus has ministered and taught as a leader at Victory Church.  Her heart is ministry!  No matter where God leads her in this world, her priority is going to be the impact of His love upon it!

So, her journey continues.  Time will reveal where she will go next in her quest to bless people. Please pray for God’s guidance in her life as she walks out her destiny.  Lacey, Connie and I really appreciate all of you who prayed, supported, believed, spread the word, voted….and voted and voted…and shared her journey!  Thank you.  We love you!

I want to thank some people who were on the bus with us in many different ways…but all powerfully contributing to Lacey’s success.  Thank you…

Ryan and Cassie Culwell

Rick and Kim Early

Brian and Jessi Gibson

Bodie, Nicki and Crosse Gregory

The Awesome Victory Church Pastors and Staff

The Generous Victory Church people, our spiritual family

Our Wonderful Pastor Friends accross the country

Jay Lemon

Wade and Princessa Hagler

Eric and Jennifer Narrell

Oscar and Eva Soto

Vicky Hibbs Tillman

Johnny and Teresa Hibbs

Sonny and Sandy Hibbs

Jay and Vicki Perdue

Areli Sanchez

(You guys have all been great.  Please forgive me if I’ve left any person or group of people out in my haste to post this blog.  Again, thank you for all your support.)