4.5 days

That's the countdown. If you want to be technical, with the next day as a workday, it's 5.5, but I don't count workdays. Plus, most of that work day I'll be in Bedford taking my National Board test. So, I'm in the process of finishing up, grading, packing/moving, and so forth. The job share is still not official - the superintendent has said yes, the consultant from R4 (the group running GHS) has said "we've done that for 20 years, it's the only way to keep good teachers" - (that's the first thing he and I have agreed on all year), but there is one person we're waiting on...

In other news, as I took such a long break to balance the checkbook - funny thing about that. I had just finished telling Jer that our 2005 Quicken program should be about to 'expire' at any time and not allow us to download when the screen popped up that 2005 was no longer supported. So, we're still waiting for our new version to arrive in the mail. I've made pretty good headway on Photoshop Elements, though. I've also downloaded all the pics on the camera to the computer - that's huge. I am also learning the power of the delete button. Fast camera means lots of shots so you can choose from the best ones instead of making all the yucky ones work! Granted, there is still a lot about my 'best' shots that I see I can make better. At least I see it, I figure.

Jenna has her pre-school graduation Friday and first dance recital on Saturday. I'm sure I'll cry at graduation. Tonight she was so funny. Very matter of factly, she began discussion the 'Engine' Turtles. I didn't even correct her because it was so cute. She's the movie/cartoon quoting diva of the world. I always wanted to do that, but I just don't hang on to stuff that well! Heck, I can't even tell a joke without messing it up. Not Jenna, she's a pro. Remember that if you say something she likes (or doesn't), she WILL quote you.

Hudson continues to be a case of Jekyll & Hyde. I don't get it. I'm trying, though.

Here are some pictures from the Baptism celebration on Sunday. The first his Hudson dunking Jeremy. Kristell was kind enough to let each kid who didn't succeed with the balls to succeed with the hand. The picture of Jenna is her demonstrating trust for Jer's illustration. It was supposed to be Hudson, but he pulled a fast one and refused.

Quick News

The kids are fantastic. They got a trip to both grandparents' homes over the weekend, so they got lots of outside time to fill them up and lots of grandparent hugs. Since then, we've been busy trying to keep them from pummeling each other. I guess it's spring fever, but they're very rambunctious. Jenna's lip was busted tonight. Hudson feigned ignorance, Jenna was screaming so loudly I couldn't get to the bottom. "The pillow just hit her," was H's eventual confession. Don't you hate when pillows just up and knock the pookie out of you? In his defense, it was the pillow fight I had told them to stop moments before heading to the closet to hang up clothes, so he wasn't in trouble. Ice, love, healed.

Church update: StoneWater has a contract on the land. We're in the due diligence period of checking it all out. But, it looks amazing. Amazing. God provides! There's a blog about land and facilities you can get to from the SWC web site (www.stonewaterchurch.com).

Job share update: there's not one. They've filled 3 of the jobs and still won't post the one vacated by the job share. Worried? No. I'm at total peace. I do find it interesting and encouraging that summer school for the first time will feature the option for teachers to job share - either morning or afternoon. That has to be a good sign, right? I still feel a peace and an excitement.

Knee: FRUSTRATION. My new shoes came in and 3 mile run - great, 4 mile run - no problem. Pain free - amazing! Shoes are a little firmer than I like, but for pain free, I'll take it. Today I set out for a 6 miler - I haven't had a good long run in weeks and weeks. Perfect temperature, great message from Andy Stanley on the ipod. Mile 4.5, mild pain, no sweat. Mile 5, intense. Between mile 5 and 6, I had to stop 3 times and anyone could hear me grunting. I'm very, very frustrated, angry, and sad. It's not the pressure of my step, it's the swinging movement from back to front with my stride. I'm just so sad. Other than the pain, it was a glorious run - refreshing mentally, emotionally (until the pain), and physically. I guess it's back to the gym tomorrow for the bike and elliptical (and miss the beautiful weather).

Sorry for the lack of updates & pictures. I'm working to balance the checkbook & credit card from March (yes, I know that's bad and SOOO not like me). Being able to always see your balance online is not very motivational for me and add to that the computer transfer. Plus, I'm working on learning my camera, re-learning Photoshop Elements (I upgraded to 6.0 from 3.0, and it's different), and, more than anything, hanging with the family. I promise I'll get better!

Have I mentioned that hanging with the family has been amazing?!

Squish him like a bug

I want to squish Jeremy. First, I love him, respect him, and adore him. But, the last week he's been like a kindergartner. I found a person with whom I wanted to strike up a friendship due to a common interest in photography. He told her, "Misti wants to be your friend." Then, I found another acquaintance's blog which was entirely different than I had imagined her due to her past work background. I told Jeremy how much it cracked me up, "Misti thinks your blog is funny." Hello, can I speak for myself, please? Am I socially awkward so that he thinks he needs to take it up for me (which does make me socially awkward)? I know he intends well, but, well, it's embarrassing.

Mother's Day was awesome - the kids remembered with no one prompting them - really, Jer was already at church by the time they got up. I hung out at my parents' new house in the country - peaceful and beautiful. This allowed me to play with the camera. Unfortunately, I didn't have one single person get a picture of me with my mom. Duh. The picture is just a week where I'm practing my depth of field and aperture relationship. I like the blur in the background, but not too much (this one is too much, but it's fun).


The MOST fun was the kids in the hammock. New experience. In, flip - down on the ground. I haven't laughed that hard in a L - O - N - G time. The picture doesn't do it justice except that it was so fast, I didn't have the shutter speed fast enough to catch it. It was a round of applause from the grandparents & parents!


The other fun was watching the kids with their frogs from the creek. Jumpy the Jump Frog (Jenna's) was all over the place. She made a bed for him in a tree (see picture). Of course, when it was time to let him go, she said he was asleep. Yes, he was, Jumpy the Jump Frog and Jenna the 5 year old had too much fun. "Jenna, I think he's dead." "No, his guts are still in, he's just sleeping really good." This is my prissy, girly daughter who is also a tomboy. Pink dress, in trees, chasing frogs & spiders, not wanting to sweat, talking about guts. She's a bag of oxymorons in a little body.


Teacher moment of the day: Phoned home to make contact on a kid who probably isn't going to pass for the semester. Habits of not turning in work, same conversation we have approximately every 3 weeks. "Well, maybe you need to make a way for kids like xxxxxxx who just don't like to do work to pass your class without doing the work." Did she really say that? Yes.

Over the hump?

That should be 'humpS.' I think I've come out of my funk after a few things were weighing me down.

Jer's been under a lot of stress the last couple of weeks and so have I, and when you combine our stress levels, we're not good for each other. We're such a team, and when one goes down (or is spiraling), the other one is there to pick him up; when we both start in a spiral, it's just not good.

One of my spirals was photography. I LOVE it. I want to be GREAT at it (I want to be great at everything I do - OCD, perfectionist, yes). I would kind of (okay, really) like to make at least a little money at doing it so I could continue to buy new stuff and feel like I'm contributing to the family financial status. But, I've always had this thing against entrepreneurship, and I have so many friends that are in the business, I don't want to compete with them. So, I was debating on what to buy to start building the basis for a simple business and found the flash I wanted super cheap. I was so excited that I didn't check the online store, and, you guessed it, not one to be trusted. After I gave my credit card info and denied their 'upgrades,' I got the email that they were 'out of stock' for my flash. I quickly cancelled my credit card which meant that I've been going through life for over a week with no way to purchase stuff. Yes, I have a debit card, but I do not use it online and usually avoid all purchases via debit. Today I received a new credit card! I'm not a crazy shopper, I'm actually very frugal, but just the ability.

Then, I've been hating teaching. I've officially released myself from being super-teacher. I have parents upset that I don't call every time their child is absent or fails a paper, and I've decided that's really not my job. I am there to teach. I study, plan lessons, and try to be as engaging but challenging as possible. I can't parent all 130 of them, too. Consequences teach lessons very well. I believe I learned that hot would hurt when Mom said hot and I touched something hot. I believe I learned (sit down for this one) that drinking would make you sick when I drank too much one night (yes, there was a little rebellious streak in me). I believe I have learned the most important lessons in life through natural consequences. And, after following students around all year, emailing home to get them to come to tutorials, I decided that my students can choose to come on their own. I post grades every Monday (also to my web site where parents can check, along with my detailed lesson plans each day, along with files of lessons and copies of notes - really, you could take my class from my web site), they have all week to come take care of business. Some are learning that skipping = missing work = zeros = failing. As a 16 or 17 year old, this is an important lesson to learn before college, when you're paying big bucks (or mom is)for school. Okay, I still feel like I'm not doing enough, but I'm working on releasing myself. Maybe part time status next year will help.

Third, what is God doing with me? I've always had such a passion for teaching and students that none of this other stuff (parents, paperwork, hoops) have gotten to me. I've always told God that he'd have to take my passion for teaching away if he wants me to do something else. It's gone. I'm trying to believe it's just 'end-of-the-semester' burnout. I've never wanted to teach or speak to women, but I feel like that's could be where I'm heading. I've never wanted to own/operate a business, but there are some opportunities presenting themselves that appear promising and exciting. I'm trying to be patient (and I'm NOT) and just enjoy the ride. I'm not scared by this type of stuff anymore (heck, I'm a church planter's wife, WHO in their right mind decides, 'let's go start a church'?), so it's kind of fun, but frustrating for the girl who likes to have it all planned out before her.

Finally, eating & exercise. I am a stress eater. I like comfort food. I like to run to counteract this, and I'd like to lose my "winter coat." Stress means I've been eating. My knee is hurting again, and I got the $536 doctor bill (x-rays are expensive, but now I've met my deductible for the year - I'm going to have moles checked, a complete physical, you name it!). No running = either no comfort eating or no shedding of winter coat. Sad, sad, sad. Now that I have a credit card, I have ordered a different pair of shoes, I think that's the next step before going back to the doctor (who is evidently NOT in my PPO network, thus some extra charges). I feel like my feet & stride have changed, so I'm trying another type of shoe. This gives me some hope. Hope = less need to stress eat...see where this is going?!

Okay - that feels better.

Sheesh..

The standoff from last post ended with Hudson apologizing, getting a hug, and going to bed. It's been a normal, crazy week. At school we had the TAKS test all week - it's like watching paint dry. Really. Hand out the test, write down where everyone is seating, watch them - sit and watch them, write down when someone leaves to go to the restroom, watch them, watch them. Then, after testing for 4 hours (or at least being locked in a room that long), we send them to classes where they show up without anything to write with or on and with 4 hours worth of energy to get out of their bodies - AGONY!

So, I don't know if it's that or what, but I'm just sheer exhausted. Like, out of my mind tired, and I really don't get that tired usually. I pop out of bed at 5am, do my run/workout, Bible study, shower, kids up and at my day. it's 10:25 and I'm counting down the minutes until I can just crawl into bed and take a nap - and ask Jeremy not to wake me up until I miraculously awake again. Weird. NO, I'm not pregnant - don't even ask, that's not even funny. We closed shop after H for those of you who have forgotten.

Off to watch some more movie on the couch with the kids (I'm telling you, something's not right with me, I don't even want to read a book while we lay there - just lay there).

Resolute

Here is a standoff from home tonight - it's not over and it's been 30 minutes in the making. I'm not sure how it started or why, but from what I've overheard, Hudson needs to sit down and apologize. He's been standing, stomping, and screaming in the bathroom, refusing to sit down and apologize. Jeremy, the resolute father, has patiently sat on a stool just outside the bathroom door guiding our son through the apology and humility stage. And, now that it's taken a while to move the pictures around, the battle has been going on for 45 minutes and began with demands and throwing a fit over a shirt. It's a long story, but basically any thing Jer has said, H has done the opposite - sit down, H stood up; light on, H turned it off; look at me - H looks away. H told Jeremy he "won't ever apologize." It's going to be a long night...for the record, Jeremy says he was never this stubborn, but I think I might have been (and I think he probably was, too).


In other news, I got the flower girl in her dress. She's quite the model - a silly 5 year old model (the other pictures are on Flickr, if you get time). Michael & Ashley, I'm sure she'll be less of a ham on the wedding day!




I'm off to read my current favorite book: Confessions of a Slacker Mom. If you're a mom, you've got to check it out...it's GREAT!

Earrings and more...

One of the things we accomplished on our shopping trip was the piercing of the ears. We've always told Jenna that when SHE was ready, she could get her ears pierce. We were both indifferent to when. A couple of weeks ago, she declared herself reading. Previously, when she declared herself ready, we would remind her that it was going to hurt, and she would change her mind. This time, we've been steady for 2 weeks. She remembered this on the way to Fort Worth Friday. Again, I reminded her that it was going to hurt. Her mind was made up.

So, after our trips to other stores, we marched into the mall. She picked out sparkly pink earrings and mounted the chair smiling from ear to ear. We pierced the first ear - and the whole Hulen Mall heard us. I comforted, and loved, I praised. She declared she was finished. She cried so hard she had a nose bleed. I finally had to tell her that we WERE going to pierce the other ear. After more screaming, I told her to hold on to my arm tight, and the girl gave it to the other ear. She's glad she did it now, but it was rough.



Then, after we got home and rested up, Jeremy got home. So, what are we going to do tonight? We decided to go camping!Out to Jer's parents'. The marshmallow roasting was great, as were our explorations...

Goodbye

This is a purely therapeutic blog. Feel free to gloss over, and please don't respond - I just need to get it out.

Kirsti was a dear friend of mine. We met, funny enough, when she stole my eighth grade boyfriend. Mickey was a freshman as was Kirsti, and the beautiful, flirtatious blond got her hooks in him. Being the reconciler that I was, I phoned her to talk - weird, huh? What happened? We became the best of friends. We went to Disney World together on the band trip, spent hours laying out, playing with our cats, making the drag in Stephenville, flirting with boys, drinking lemonade at her parents'. I was in her wedding & she in mine. Over the years since, we've kept in touch, sometimes with long stretches in between, sometimes with frequent emails. She lived a spell in Idaho, and I never made it to see her. I had hoped to see her now that she was back in Texas. She's loved photography forever, and we just started talking "shop" since I'm just starting out.

Kirsti was beautiful - gorgeous. She always made me think a little of Jennie Garth, the girl who was on 90210. I never shared my faith in Christ with Kirsti, which is what really hurts the most right now. I got a note in the mail from Kirsti's dad today, "Please call me." So, I knew something was wrong right away. But, I was not prepared for what I heard. Almost two months ago, Kirsti and her mom were walking the dogs near her parents' place in Lampasas. A car came around the corner and hit them. Kirsti was killed and her mother is paralyzed from the waist down. He had wanted to tell me, obviously, but didn't have any of my contact information. He was going through some of her stuff last week and found my address.

Oh, how it hurts. Almost 20 years of friendship and I never had 'the conversation' with her. Instead, I allowed myself to "just live a life she could see" so that, one day, when we both had time, I could stop and tell her. I never did. Please, don't wait, if there is someone in your life that you love that you're not sure about.

Home again

Back home from Florida. Good trip. Some great, enlightening information and some good affirmation. I didn't get a lot of challenge that was overwhelming, but some good nudging to do what I know I need to do anyway. It's always good to get that gentle nudge of conviction - not too painful, just right.

The kids and I went to Ft. Worth for some errands today. We got a flower girl dress!
We also pierced our ears. Pictures of both to come.

I have to brag on little man - he was AWESOME today through the shopping! Go H!

We've randomly decided to go camping - later.

Sunny Florida

We've recovered from the red card at school. Jenna's behavior has been much on the mend. Hudson, we'll he's had a few red cards here at home. I don't understand how he can be so absolutely loving and affectionate and obedient one minute and then, BOOM, he's kicking, screaming, and stomping another. I guess that's the 3 year old in him!

Jeremy and I leave tomorrow for a church conference in Florida! Yea! I'm attending a conference that actually speaks to my needs!: "In church planting a spouse must deal not only with her or his own life, but also with added expectations from others. The church planter's spouse must deal with the expectations of others while discovering her/his own giftedness-a unique "DNA" that is not always what others expect. This is a huge balancing act of time and priorities." I can't wait to hear what there is!

Otherwise, life has been pretty smooth. Hectic as we prepare for a week's absence from school and the kids, but smooth. The job share seems to be pressing forward - the schedule is made, I'll have 2 AP and 1 Sheltered class, we've chosen the room we want to move into, and we're EXCITED!

RED?!?!!!

Today was set up to be a great day. It was scope and sequence workday at the curriculum building -right up my alley! Not only do I love that stuff, but it means a little later morning arrival, more than my standard 30 minutes for lunch at a REAL restaurant, and getting finished earlier. We really do work our tails off despite how easy that makes it sound.

So, at 3:40 I arrived at pre-school (a full hour earlier than normal) and saw Ms. Erin, Jenna's morning teacher. "Jenna had a really rough day today. Her card was moved all the way to red." Hear audible gasp by me. Red is the result of multiple warnings. She had a bad night last night - disobedience and talking back. It followed her to school today as she talked back and disobeyed her teacher. So, Jenna had to have consequences. I got to use my Love & Logic skills, "Jenna, your behavior today will result in a consequence. I don't know what that consequence will be because Dad and I will have to talk about it. But, know that something will happen." Talk about a five year old sweating it out!

So, after some yard work, extra chores, and a talk, she is losing her story and book time, her High School Musical CD at bed time, and had to write Ms. Erin a letter. It's working because she "feels sad" and "has a tummy ache." Here's her letter...


There's a fine line between too harsh & not harsh enough. I don't want her to be that kid in class that says, "My parents won't care." I want her to be the kid that says, "My parents would make my life miserable if I did that." I think we're setting a good foundation.

Meanwhile, Hudson is so excited it's not him for a change! I think it's good for both of them even if it is hard to see Jenna take something so hard.

Meet Bloopy

Don't call him Bloopy II, Bloopy Jr., or New Bloopy. "It's just Bloopy," is what you'll hear. I personally think this Bloopy is ugly - physically and personality-wise. Yes, fish do have personalities, because Bloopy #1 would swim to whichever side of the bowl you were on and swim or look at you. This little guy swims over alright, but he flares his gills and fins like he would like to attack you. Same thing to Princess, the female fish in the other half of the bowl (the bowl is divided or I think he'd have killed her by now). I just don't like him.

We had a good time choosing, but all the fish were ugly. The kids had so much fun choosing and bringing home a new fish that they want to know who's going to die next so we can get another! I tried to explain the goal is to take care of the fish and have him/her live a long time, like until they're in school...but they said they like burying and getting new ones. Ah, the fun times.

OUCH!

This was my mantra Monday morning as I ran. Knee pain started about mile 3, but I thought I could 'work it out.' By mile 4, I knew there wasn't any working it out, but I had almost 2 miles to get back home. By mile 5, I was almost in tears and had a good limp.

It really all started in my big toe joint several months ago. That started hurting enough that I gave in and got new shoes, which worked for about a week. I did give in and make an appointment with a sports med doctor. After a zillion x-rays (how much will that cost?), he assured me that structurally I am fine. Then we got to the business of what had changed to cause pain and make it move up my leg to my knee.

Don't you hate it when you have to pay someone to tell you something really obvious that you really already knew?

When I started teaching 10 years ago, I had the sense to know to buy expensive shoes (Naturalizer, Aerosols) that were flat. In the last three years, I decided that heels were really cuter, and started adding them (a lot of them). Seems that a few years of teaching in heels has caused early, early arthritis and early bunions on my big toe joint. The toe joint has been sensitive for a couple of months, which is enough to cause a runner to change the way she runs, leading to tendinitis of the knee. It all makes sense, and I really figured it all came down to running differently, and I knew those shoes were bad...

So, goodbye shoes (I have several pair of size 8 1" to 1 1/2" heels that are homeless). If I want to continue to run - I need to go back to flat, wide toe box shoes after a week of wearing my runners to work (I look kind of funny in my skirt with running shoes, but they are comfortable). And do more cross training (which, I already knew would be better for my body - but it's really easy just to go out and run and not plan a trip to the Y at 5:30 am).

It's working. I've sported my running shoes to work, I've done the bike & elliptical at the Y, and taking the ibuprofen. I ran a 5K today and despite some pretty good pain the last mile, I ran a 25:44 (that's pretty good for my times).

Big News!

Last week was a big week of news!

Wednesday I got the word that the job share is official. My principal told my department chair that it is official! Yea! Since the option was not having a job at all or working part time, I'm pretty excited to still be a financially contributing member of our family. Plus, I love teaching and the position will give me a chance to excel at teaching and at mothering. I get to pick up Jenna from kindergarden and H from day preschool! Woo hoo!

God just continues to lavish his love on us.

Is the fish asleep or dead?

What do you think?

This was Jeremy's first question this morning as Jenna and I were making pancakes. Knowing that Bloopy (beloved betta fish) hadn't looked so good the last two days and that fish don't look much different asleep than awake, I knew the answer before I turned around to look. Jenna took it well, just asking when we were going to bury him.
However, when she made the announcement to Hudson, who doesn't wake up well, the result was a good cry. Sobbing, slobbering cry. What do you tell a 3 year old?

Bloopy will be interred today around 5:00 when we all get home from work and school. We will then go and let H choose a new fish and name it all by himself so that we 1) have another boy fish 2)Princess (the female betta) will have a friend.

All good things...

must come to an end according to Chaucer, and so Spring Break comes to an end this evening. We had today as a bad weather day, so the bonus was great!

The kids learned to ride bicycles without training wheels today! It was a momentous and exciting occasion, and, of course I have lots of pictures - and haven't uploaded a single one yet. I've got to learn to shrink my files in a timely manner so that I can share them with the world!

This is the last week I have to work on my National Certification, so that's priority #1, then I'm finishing up details on my sharing for a retreat (mostly done there, too) as priority #2. I hope to mail the NBPTS box on Thursday.

Church was amazing the count was 1091 adults, and we usually run 200 to 300 children (and there were far more this weekend) so we figure we can make our count around 1300 people - definitely our highest attendance! No, it's still not about the numbers, but numbers are a good way to measure growth, and if we can retain a good percentage, that will result in growth! Awesome - more people coming to know Christ!

Family wise - we had a great trip to my parents to meet my brother's girlfriend, Ashley. I gave my approval, as did Jenna, who's already calling her Aunt Ashley, and Hudson who says "she's really pretty." Hudson gave some levity as he asked, "Uncle Mike, you fallin' in love (with a long drawl on l-o-v-e)?" and "You kiss her on the lips?" Nothing like a 3 year old to ask what's on his mind! It's been quick, but I believe they have both found the real thing - of course, I've always known the lucky girl to snag Michael would have to be special. He's a good catch - patient, quiet, and dedicated.

Variety

When you don't post and life moves as fast as our does, it leaves a lot to catch up on at one time!

Jenna finally lost her tooth:

It was a huge moment. It was nap time, and I had just drifted off when she came running in the bedroom, "Mom - my tooth! I just wiggled and wiggled, and it just came out - it hurt a little, but not too much, look, look!" Not the best mommy moment, I took it, put it on the bedside table and told her to go back to bed. I was sad when I woke up enough to realize I didn't celebrate the moment. But, we had a huge celebration later, and the toothfairy came that night. Immediately, the tooth beside #1 is loose. She's getting WAY too big.

We got the email from our accountant asking about our income. "For some reason the income we figured for withholding and housing isn't as large as reported on the W2." Translation - we're paying taxes - $1515 to be exact. I just wrote the check. Hmph. I'm still upset about it. The good news: when our check comes in May, when you add what we paid to the IRS & to the accountant - it's an even $0. Of course, we were looking at that check as a nice addition to the next egg for my part time or not working life.

We took the kids to the "Holy Land" for Spring Break vacation. A little trip to A&M to see my brother & his new house, show them the campus, and re-live some of our past. I didn't realize I had forgotten so many memories until I was back on campus! Made me want to go back and get my Ph.D. there, but it wouldn't be the same. Better to let memories live as memories. I'll post pictures as soon as I take all 150+ off the camera (some are just experiments). Michael's house is awesome. I'm so proud of him, and I didn't even help raise him! I guess the fact that we're finally able to communicate on a common level after being in different life stages for our whole lives is the real agent. He's done so well, and I just pray that he keeps it up.

I had the honor of being nominated as one of three candidates for teacher of the year at GHS. I was amazed and honored. I was a runner up, which, really and truly, is what I deserved. This has not been my best year in the last decade in regard to dedication or attitude. But, I am still very honored for the nomination, and it's got to help the job share argument - that just gives me more credibility in the district.

Hudson seems to be getting neglected here. He's really just holding as steady little H. He turned heads at A&M with his cuteness (little boy with Aggie cap on a John Deere bicycle with training wheels - who could resist that?). He almost took out a couple of students, but gave a friendly, "Howdy" in the process. Still molding that temper and enjoying the snuggles!

Jer is good, too. He's gearing up for Easter. It's been tough this year that Easter is at the end of Spring Break. He can't really loaf around with us like usual when we're off. He loves what he does, but has realized he's not a much fun as he used to be - so he's trying to bring the fun back to Jeremy - I'll keep you posted!

Whew...

Has it really been that long? Sorry, I was going to get better at this keeping everyone in the loop business.

Jeremy made it home safely, and it's been busy, busy, busy since! Joey and Lisa are settling in nicely, and we love hearing from them. The boys have had haircuts (which made Uncle Jeremy very happy) and Carson lost two more teeth! They're surfing and playing like crazy.

Jenna's tooth still hasn't fallen out. You can clearly see the one behind it, but the current one's not getting wiggly enough for her to pull. Since it's the first one, it's going to have to fall out for the most part. Hudson's either really good or really bad. His little temper and disobedience has us scratching our heads and trying to figure out what we've done wrong. There is really rhyme or reason to it that we can find, but we're still searching for the root of the cause.

I haven't heard anything on the job share, but, I have tracked down an opening at Weatherford College. With my Master of Ed., I'm eligible to teach classes in education, and that might be a good option if I can get hired. I think I might also like to take some grad courses in English at Tarleton. If I get 18 hours I can teach English at a junior college or small college without getting a whole other MA in English. Of course, a lot of that depends on income and other issues. I don't want to jump out of the frying pan and into the fire!

I have just three more weeks to finish my National Board Certification portfolio. I'm halfway done, and I have a good start on the other half. It's one of those things that I feel like I cut off my nose to spite my face - I wanted more certification (because a BA, experience, and M Ed. in Curriculum haven't been enough) to be able to teach what and how I feel it should be done according to the TEKS without anyone micromanaging, but it's really created a lot more work for me! It will be great to have, there are very few in this part of the nation, and even fewer in this part of Texas.

Church stuff is going great. Jeremy, Dave, and Chris presented on small groups at the church planter's retreat last weekend. I helped Jeremy teach on Sunday (talk about out of my comfort zone!) about marriage. I wish I knew more to report, but, honestly, I'm just trying to keep my head above water right now!

Daddy's coming home!

Jeremy will return in just a few hours (hopefully), and we'll all reunite after a full week away. Joey, Lisa, and the boys are now residents of San Diego. We are so excited for them! While in California, Jeremy had the opportunity to do a little surfing - he got up and stayed up for 5 seconds!

Our week went smoothly without him; without a doubt, that was due to the many people who were praying for us. I know Jacqui (my teacher friend) lifted us up specifically each morning, and I'm so grateful for her time. Jacqui has taught me so much about prayer, faithfulness in prayer, and believing God as you pray. She is also my dear job share partner. God placed us both here in his perfect timing with his perfect plan.

Now that I have shared with all of the people around me who truly needed to know first, the decision I alluded to a couple of weeks ago is that Jeremy and I have reached a decision that I will not continue teaching next year if the job share does not go through. The demands on our time and the time teaching takes me away from my family, stress it produces, and ugliness it produces in me were not worth it. It's huge - it's scary - it's losing half of our income! But, it's right. It feels good. As soon as we decided, it was as if a huge boulder was taken off of my shoulders. My principal and department head are both very supportive in my decision. I have no doubt that I will return one day, but right now my kids and husband need me. My church and friends need me. God has so clearly paved this decision. I have always told Him that if I am ever to quit teaching, He would have to remove my passion and love for teaching. It's weird to think losing your passion for something you love is good, but it is good and He has removed it. I'm almost devoid of any excitement, it's all about duty and pressure of producing good test results.

Just today I got more word on the job share. If the person who seems to need to make a decision says nothing in one more request from my principal, she is making the decision. And her decision is a YES! So, stay on your knees - a "yes" or a "no decision" are our best answers!

It's Loose!

Jenna has her first loose tooth. She thought something was wrong at first, and when we explained it was normal, she got very excited. Now it's a long wait until it falls out because she asks constantly how much longer. It's very cute, and just another sign of how big she's really getting.

Hudson had his first sleepover last night. Noah seems to be a new best buddy - finally someone closer to his age to play with. I don't know how it's gone, but I suspect it went well. I'll find out at church when we meet up. To counterbalance, Jenna had Jade spend the night. They're working on a puzzle.

All's well in our world. Last night was the StoneWater Appreciation Banquet. It was great fun to see everyon all dressed up. We had a really good time. Thanks to all of you who make the church run so smoothly!

Whew!

Well, it's been a fast & furious 10 days since my last post.

Jenna has been diagnosed with a severe form of bronchitis, almost pneumonia. Steroid, antibiotic, breathing treatment - we're on 'em all. She is on the mend, only for her heart to start 'hurting' tonight. Irregular heartbeat. Pediatrician says normal side effect of medicine, and it's actually normal for a kid to have an irregular rhythm. Still, with my past history, I'm a little concerned.

The washer part arrived, and I conquered. The only problem is I didn't get the external cabinet on right, and it moves funny if you lean against it. It washes clothes, so it's all good for me.

Michael is settling in at A&M. He bought a house, and is waiting for the building to finish. Good times.

Things at dear ol' GHS are eating at me. Jeremy and I have had some long, frank talks and are stepping out on faith a bit. Just since our talk on Saturday, lots of new and exciting things have been happening on the church planting front. People at school telling me how much they enjoy the message, how it has touched them, and more of the like. Opportunities for Jeremy coaching, attending conferences, and so forth. Praise & prayer!

Quotes of the Week

This has been an exceptional week in my classroom.

I have had so much fun in Sheltered; it's been my favorite class to teach for two weeks now. No one in that class whines about doing work, no one is disrespectful, and they want to learn. Yesterday we were talking about having kids (who knows why) and Juan (name changed) said he wanted to have 4 kids. He then asked how many I wanted to have. "Two." "Why do white people always want to have just two kids?" I had to stop and think. First the 'white people' label startled me, and then I was struck by the depth of the whole conversation. So many 'white' people think of Mexicans (and that is what they prefer to be called, I asked. Hispanics are anyone from Spain, Portugal, Puerto Rico, and so forth. They are from Mexico, so they are Mexicans. But, you have to say it with respect when you're a white person or you're being racist. I'm learning a lot.)as just reproducing out of control. We think we're right in having just a few kids. But, what makes us right? Anyway, let's just say this is a great learning opportunity for me.

In AP, my other favorite classes, John (not his name) was absent. Joe (not his name) said, "Not having John in class is like not having Mr. T in the A Team." What a classic statement of awareness for a 16 year old to know about the A Team and how important Mr. T is to the team. Great insight, great simile, great allusion! You can't plan for those moments!

Oh, and my washer part came yesterday. Tomorrow I will resume my study of mechanics (really just following directions).

Fixer!

Context: in the middle of a message series on saving money; no debt other than the house; saving for a newer car when this one really dies (at 10 years 140,000+ miles - it's coming); frugal family

Problem: while loading the dryer, I notice the clothes are unusually wet; after next load, washer will not drain or spin

Solution: #1 - call dad, the man Jen & H have labeled "The Fixer" (I have many times been asked if I can be a fixer, and many times been told I am not "The Fixer"); #2 - order part from Sears online, do a little research

Quest: make sure I need this part, so, using fixitnow.com, the Samurai Appliance Repair Man, I set out to confirm what I need to order; save $450 on a new washer by buying either a $110 or $26 part to fix the existing washer




Pictures: washer after I took it apart (really just the outside cover), the broken switch (there should be a part in the middle so the hole doesn't show), the piece that's missing (I found in the next load of laundry), the solution until the part arrives (Yes, it's an odd sock)
Not only did I figure out the problem, take the washer apart, and reassemble to make sure of my diagnosis before ordering the part, BUT I found the part (26.99 + shipping at sears.com) on ebay for just 17.98 shipping included.

And, H has told me, "Mommy, you're a fixer!" Yes, I am.

Rebound

Maybe Jeremy shouldn't have kissed me the other night. Three of the four members of the White family are down with the "stuff" that is going around. I think I'm on the other side of the worst, Jeremy seems to be climbing up the hill, and Hudson seems to just be stuck in the middle.

We did all get a good nap today - over three hours. This means it's 10:04 and no one is tired, but we all feel better, so God used the rest to heal our bodies, and we are thankful for that. I have plenty of work to do, but I'm enjoying reading photography blogs and playing with the camera. It does some amazing things. It's a good thing the kids LOVE to be my subjects!

I am LOVING my Sheltered English class. I think at first they couldn't figure out if I wanted to be with them or just 'got stuck' with them, and now they know I'm into doing this. I also admitted I don't completely know what I'm doing, but I'm studying and expecting us to all work together to get better at English. I did quite well on my first quiz (they gave me a Spanish vocab quiz on the words they had to learn in English). When they say something in Spanish, I ask them to tell me what they said, and I try to repeat it. I butcher it, usually, and they are very patient to repeat with me. The situation ends up with me getting close and having to explain that I'm white and that's as close as it's going to get! They think it's funny. So, I'm dusting off some teaching strategies and programs that I've never 'been allowed' to use because it didn't fit current district curriculum and running with it. It's good, solid stuff, and I think it's going great so far!

"I think they're going to kiss..."

Jenna has just taken a notice to Jeremy and I showing affection to each other. Maybe it's because we realized we go for long stretches and the kids don't see us be affectionate. We realized they need to see love and affection and understand how much we really do love each other beyond being Mom and Dad. So, we were hugging in the kitchen, and we overhead Jenna, "Oh no, Hudson, I think they're going to kiss." We did, just for effect for her.

Hudson and I are fighting a little cold - runny/stuffy nose, cough, sore throat, tired. Yucky, but not seriously ill. It's going around and it's frequently getting ugly and turning into bronchitis. We're tough. We're also hoping for a delayed start to school tomorrow for a little extra rest. Evidently it's already sleeting in Stephenville, just down the road, so it's looking good! I just don't want to miss completely, I HATE making up school!

It's a cozy evening with some homemade chili, homemade bread (kind of - breadmaker), snuggles, and a movie.

The best news: I got to see and visit with Michael! It was SOOOOO good to see him, hug him, and talk to him in person. He looks good, a little tired and definitely skinny (lost 20 lbs.), but healthy overall. He was in some pretty hairy stuff from the comments I've gotten, and my prayer, if you will join me, is that God would heal him emotionally & psychologically.

Happy Winter!

Uncle Mike's Home!

That's my brother - ON US SOIL AGAIN! I can't express how happy that makes me. God delivered him home, safe & sound. I'll get to see him tomorrow or Tuesday. This was the penacle of the week.

Friday I had one of "those" days. A parent tore into me for her child not doing well on the research paper. What I got from her questions and demeanor was that I didn't do enough and set her up for failure. What I couldn't get across to her was that I poured my life out and have worked for 10 years to make it as simple a process as possible if the student works in class. No one was happy; I cried after she left; she went all the way to the principal. In the grand scheme of things, it was not that big a deal; I just work so HARD to help these kids, and yet it's my fault when they fail. My principal and department head completely had my back.

To happier news: Jenna & Hudson are amazing. My babies have such wonderful little helper hearts. Today they helped me clean house - willingly and without complaining. We went to see "The Pirates Who Don't Do Anything" and got tacos as a treat.

Cute Kids

How did we produce such cute kids? God's grace is good!

Tomorrow is the last day of the semester - praise & glory! We're looking forward to a great weekend.

Happy New Year!

Okay, okay, it's 16 days in, but I haven't said it here yet. We've settled back in to school and work routines quite nicely since the holidays, and it was a little doubtful as to whether or not that would happen. I have also been living up to my "resolution" to not work so hard, really. So, in the absence of grading papers and such mess, I have had time to actually finish the "Christmas" cards which may lead some of you back here. I also managed to complete baby shower invitations for a friend, connect the new camera (alluded to on the Christmas Eve post) to the computer and find it works marvellously, and look at a lot of photography web sites. I have not practiced with the camera as much as I would like, but I am the envy of some of my friends who dabble in photography ;). I would attach a picture for you to enjoy, but it seems I need to rename some 195 images from the holidays. When you have a fast camera, you take a lot of pictures - I don't think I missed a thing this year! So, as soon as I sit down to do that, and figure out how to shrink the file size in the new program, you'll be the first to see some work. Really, you saw the first printed picture from the camera, which isn't that great because I didn't take the time to calibrate the printer - the picture looks much better on the LCD screen of my camera!

I have not heard anything on the job share other than "I know the issue is not dead" from my principal, so Jacqui and I are staying positive. As Jacqui pointed out, "God tells us to ask the desires of our hearts, and we've asked, so now we have to believe and it will be given to us." She's such a rock in my sandy world of the school! I do love teaching, really, I do, it's all the "other" stuff.

The kids are awesome. Jenna began dance on Monday, and I think it will be her favorite yet. Soccer was cold or requires sweating. Gymnastics was better, but she yearned for more time on the trampoline. Dance meant new shoes (tap & ballet) and the cutest little costumes you can imagine. She's so prissy, this just might be her thing. Yes, I know, she's only 5, trust me - we're not pushing her to make a decision any time soon. Our family rule is - try one thing at a time and find the one or two things you like to do and go for it. It worked for me, and families are just too crazy running around from activity to activity. Speak of the princess...she just woke up, so I'm off to make breakfast. She wants to add, "Dance is fun."

Christmas Eve

Sounds heard around the White House (ours) on Christmas Eve:
"I can't get it to take the picture" Misti with new camera.
"I'll be glad when you figure that thing out" Jeremy to Misti regarding above.
"Is that IT?" Jenna regarding toy she didn't think she wanted; she later loved it.
"What if Santa takes my toy?" Hudson regarding new toy which was placed in his room.

Basically, after Christmas Eve service we had dinner at Pastafina with the Whites, made Happy Birthday Jesus cupcakes, went to see Christmas lights while they cooled, came home & iced, and then opened one gift. It was the "big" present they chose, of course. Jenna was less than pleased at first, obviously she wanted something else. She came around. Hudson was immediately enthralled, hence his apprehension that Santa might take it when he came tonight. We've decided we might have issues when the kid doesn't trust Santa. Now nestled in bed, convinced (hopefully) that they have to stay in bed until the sun is up or they might scare Santa, Santa & Mrs. Clause better get to work.

What did we ever do before kids? I love this stuff!

Humility of Motherhood

These are pictures of Jenna's new bicycle and Hudson's new gun. Friday we went to Red Lobster and to Academy. While at Academy, Jenna tried new bikes. She was really in desperate need, her knees hit the handle bars of her old bicycle. During her experiments with Dad, Hudson and I perused the toys. One after another, "Mommy, I want this," until "the gun." When he spied the gun in the picture, complete with sound and real bullets, his voice and tempo changed. "Wow, Mommy." It was love at first sight. After I became "the best mommy in the whole world," Jenna and Daddy had selected the perfect bike. Jer took off to look around, and so did Hudson and I. As I was looking at a shirt, I heard a sound that was like regurgitation. It was. I took off running for the bathroom, at the back far corner from where I was - and we left a trail the whole way. After cleaning him up, I went in search of workers to tell them what happened, and started trying clean what I could, despite the lack of paper towels in the restroom. It took 6 workers to quarrentine our area - our trail. As soon as Jer found us, he thought quickly - he paid, and H and I went to the truck. So embarassing!

But - we have a new bicycle and a new gun. We're working on wearing the both out!

That's why...

Jenna has never had one of her molars come in. Last August our dentist thought he saw a calcium deposit blocking the tooth. Today we made the leap to the oral surgeon. It seems that baby tooth never developed and just stayed right under the gum. All of her teeth under the gum, her future adult teeth, look great. But, the underdeveloped baby tooth is blocking her 6 year molar. It's gotta go. Sigh. My baby girl will have to be sedated and have that cut out. He assured me she'll bounce back faster than I would, but it's still scary. The other scary thing was I saw two big wisdom teeth in her lower jaw, so this probably isn't our last oral surgeon visit. Better keep that dental insurance when she's a teen and college age.

Hudson is a model. Really. A friend of ours is starting a photography business and needed a cute little boy for her samples. Ours is that cute little boy. I just had to brag about that. He doesn't have professional head shots or anything, but visit around Granbury, and you just might see his smiling face. He did well, too. I was worried, because anytime we step into a studio, he goes limp, covers his face, and screams. She took us to the park and just snapped away. She even got hime to pose. I can't wait to see them, and when I do, you will too!

StoneWater will have our first staff retreat this weekend. The staff leaves Sunday, the spouses follow on Monday. Big fun! We love our staff. Currently we have Jeremy and Joey, children's coordinator - Kendra, children/finance - Suzanne, Executive Pastor - Dave, Video/Tech/Youth - Jason, office director - Rebecca, worship leader - Eric. It's a fun group!

Loss

I think I've wanted to express my grief over the loss of Chas, knowing it would be therapeudic and a way to share how much he really did mean to me and to my family, but doing so just makes it so final. So real. It's easier living in the shock and immediate sadness than the long term. But, here it is another Sunday morning, and I find myself grieving all over again. Loss is hard. Yesterday was the first time that it hit Hudson. Of course we sat the kids down and talked to them about it, but Hudson is just 2. Jeremy was watching some PBS special on guitarists and it showed a bass player. Hudson said, "Daddy, where is Chas?" I had been waiting on this question on a Sunday or Saturday. Jeremy explain that Chas was with God. Hudson asked, "When he gonna come back?" Jeremy explained that he wasn't, but one day we would see him again, in heaven. Hudson hugged Jeremy really tightly and said, "I'm sad, Daddy. I love Chas."

Later I was giving Eric a hard time about the candy machine that's STILL in my garage, a year after he and Chas purchased it to make some money. In a way I want it out, but, then again, it's just a part of Chas and Eric that remains in my garage and I see multiple times a day. Silly, huh?

Long Time Gone

I have neglected this blog for far long enough. Some quick updates - I am still running. Not as hard as I had been, but I'm working on getting my mileage back up to 20 miles per week. I am also working on those abs an arms - a cute, but strapless bridesmaid dress is my main motivation for the arms. I am working on my National Board Certification, lots of work, and going to DC for a school conference in June/July. Jeremy will be coming along at our own expense; we figure it's worth it. One of us is going free - she'll have to work, of course, but we'll get to visit in the late afternoons and evenings.

Jeremy is still reveling in church stuff. He's meeting with a new coach/mentor and likes implementing those ideas. The church continues to grow - getting close to a regular number of 700 a week. Crazy. The church is currently looking for land, a tough road in Granbury.

Jenna is growing. I cut her hair a little shorter, getting rid of the stringy stuff, and she looks more grown up and more like a child at the same time. She's absolutely beautiful and delightful.

Hudson is all boy. He likes super heroes, tractors, and running. Stubborn boy, but sweet and cuddly too.

Michael, my brother, is in town. It's good to see him. He looks tired, of course he had just been in transit for two days last time I saw him. It's also a little bittersweet, knowing that he has to go back in a couple of weeks. But, my principal gave me the day off tomorrow to hang with him - so I"ll make the most of it and try not to think too far into the future!

Just 7 1/2 more days of school (minus 1 day with Michael, and 1 day writing scope and sequence), so, 5 1/2 more days - but who's counting? ME!

Oops

I obviously forgot about this for a little while, but I'm working on getting back in the habit for our friends who are away from us, and for my brother who will soon be leaving for Iraq again. Please pray for his safety and security while he is there.

We're doing well. Schools is good as there are only 5 more weeks of the trimester left, and then I'm back to juniors. I have enjoyed seniors, but they require a lot of 'babying' and cajoling. Hudson is fighting some bug - he has a fever and has asked to go to bed twice today - once this morning and promptly at 7:50 this evening. I get to stay home with him tomorrow, and I'm looking forward to it. I've had a sore throat & ear ache for 3 weeks now - really, so that gives me the chance to go back to the doctor tomorrow. I have a fever now, so maybe they'll take some action. Jeremy is having a grand time doing all of his normal 'stuff.' Jenna is still our princess and is getting smarter all the time. Jeremy gave both of the kids brownies this weekend and gave Jenna 4 and Hudson 3 (I was gone, and he has assured me that they were small). Jenna said, "I have 4." Hudson said, "I have 4, too." Jenna looked in his bowl and then at Jeremy and said, "Daddy, Hudson can't count." He said he cracked up, it hadn't occurred to her that Hudson doesn't know everything she does. So, later, when they went to Nana's, Jenna told Nana that Hudson isn't very smart. Thank you, Nana, for explaining that he's just younger! Too funny.

Got shot.

I finally broke down and went to the doctor today after I thought my head might explode and all my teeth might fall out. I've been fighting this for two weeks (actually, more), and I gave in. I was expecting the antibiotic and decongestant mix, but when she said 'shot,' I felt a little like Jenna. NO! Steroid shots hurt, but it did give me some relief within a few hours. I'm hoping that soon everything else will kick in and I'll feel like living again (or at least keeping the house clean and clothes on the kids).

Running is good - I finished a 'measly' 10 on Saturday (probably didn't help the illness), but since then, I've been off on 'healing' break. I miss it terribly, and, although I'm scared, I'm ready for a good long one again. I really miss my running buddies, we haven't run together much lately.

The kids are great. They are both almost over this 'stuff' that has gone around. Hudson popped out of bed last night because, "Daddy, I need to tell you something." This is a trick he learned from his sister. Sister is usually swift enough to work in a "Daddy, I love you." But, Hudson, didn't really know what to say when Jeremy answered, "Okay, what?" He stammered and then kissed his knee and wandered back to bed. He's a sweetie. He is in a depth of whining and temper tantrums. We're working on him. Jenna is the ultimate big sister. She knows everything, which is bad and good. She's growing like and weed, and it's impossible to keep her in clothes that fit and match our Texas weather. We enjoyed the 'snow' last week. The kids didn't want to come in, despite 'burning' fingers (frostbite?). They want more, of course.

We're all looking forward to Christmas break. Jer and I will be heading to the ski slopes, and then we'll have some great family time!

Wow, a little time away

Has it really been that long?

Cold has hit, as I know you are aware. A solid 23 degrees this morning as I ran my laps of my neighborhood. I shed more clothes than I have in my closet, I think! I learned I don't need that many clothes to run in the cold. Yep, I'm still running - my longest run now is up to 18 miles. I completed the Half in my goal time of under 2.10 - 2:09:50, officially. It felt GREAT. However, after the 18 miles, in 3.13, I did not feel great. It hurt. But, I've recovered, mentally and physically, and I'm looking 'forward' to 20 in December. I've really enjoyed my buddies from the running ministry...and missed them since the Half. We've kind of fallen apart, I feel like, but I'm trying to resurrect.

The kids have been busy with so much, I don't know where to begin. We have adjusted completely to our new pre-school. Jenna is learning so much about God and the Bible, I just love it. She has friends now, that was rough at first. Hudson is just happy wherever he is (except he's sick now, and quite a whiner). He's getting big - even going on the potty some. Speaking of...here he comes, so it's time to start breakfast...

Late Night

Tonight was Fantasy Football draft for the men, and pool night for the women, complete with child care at another local house. Terrific!

I just had one of those blissful moments when you put the children to bed, and no one argues because they're exhausted. Then, I couldn't resist picking Jenna up and cradling her in my arms. I just rocked her and gazed at her precious little face, remarking on how I can't believe she is so big, she used to be so tiny and dependent. I was reveling in the moment, thinking she had actually gone to sleep since her face had relaxed and her breathing was even. One eye opened up and she said, "My head is tired of this, are you finished?" I laughed and laid her on her pillow - ah the days of yesteryear!

Survivor!

We have survived the first week of school!

Let me actually begin with a cute story from last weekend. After setting up at the school for the first time, we arrived home around 1:15. By the time we ate lunch, it was 1:45. As Jeremy and I were finishing, Jenna came in and ask us, "Why is Hudson alseep." I told her he wasn't, but it was almost nap time. She said, "Yes, he is. In bed." Jeremy and I looked at each other, walked to Hudson's room, and found him fast asleep in his crib, blanket in his arm, paci in his mouth. His foot stool was pushed up against the crib, evidently it was just too much for him and he put himself to bed! How sweet!

The first day of school was Tuesday, and Jenna woke at 6:45, ready to get dressed. She dressed and ate breakfast. Jeremy has offered to let them watch Clifford, which comes on from 8:00 to 8:30. Nope, Jenna was ready to go. So, the went. According to Jeremy, Jenna entered, ready as can be. Hudson was a little hesitant, but Jenna took him and told him she would take care of him. Of course, Hudson came home the first day at 3:30 with a 101 fever. Future signs? He was fine by Friday, and able to return.

My classes are great. This trimester I have all Junior classes - 2 AP and 2 on level. I'm behind on organization and grading (already), but once again I remember how much I love this and the opportunites to minister to those kids. So many of them have no clue about God or even someone who will love and respect them while holding them accountable. I have already had my first parent come after me - at 4:30 on Friday, no less - but my Assistant Principal backed me, so all is well. Deadlines are deadlines, after all.

Our first week at Brawner Intermediate was wonderful. I was in charge of overseeing Camp SteppingStone since our children's coordinator was out of town, and I expected one of those 'drop back and punt' moments. But, everything was very smooth. I sweated for about 15 minutes while I waited to see if my workers would all show up, but it was great. The kids were happy with the new facilities, as were the teachers. The band sounded great, the chairs were comfortable (but not as good as the theater), and we even had to put out more chairs for the second service. We began the new StoneWater tradition of stacking your chairs after church, and the move was complete.

Visit Home

We returned to Lake Highlands Baptist Church on Sunday for a StoneWater report. It was exciting to be heading back, and I think Jeremy hit the nail on the head when he described it as going back to see your parents after you had been away at college. There was so much to share, so much excitement, and so many people to see. Unfortunately we couldn't catch up with everyone, between the kids dashing here, there, and yonder, and so many people we loved so dearly, we just didn't get to everyone in as much depth as we wanted. To those of you who read this, I apologize for that.

The night was exciting and ended with a bang as Hudson vomited on me three, yes three, times in the Fellowship Hall. Right on the nice carpet. The second time covered me, and the third time we made it to a trash can. (Sorry, guys.) I guess it was all the running and playing. Then, in the middle of the night Jenna wet her bed (the Dzina's air bed), and, in an effort looking for us, ended up in Paige's room, causing Paige to enter a screaming fit, which, in turn caused Jenna to scream. Funny at 4:50am - nope. Poor David, he stayed up visiting until after midnight, had a 4:50 screaming daughter (and carried our daughter to us, pantiless) and then met a friend at 6:00 am for breakfast.

Now I find myself in the precarious position of returning to work tomorrow. We've had a great week of "living it up." We've swam every day and today (after we've already played with Play-Doh and painted) we're heading to a movie, get some fast food, and out to Uncle Ronnie's pool with the Karnes'. Go out with a bang, right?

Running is good. I got some new running shoes, it was time. The last pair I got was about three months after Hudson was born, so they're almost two years old, and combine that with some running puts them in the replacement category. Now I have that pair (which I dearly love) and my new pair to break in. I've been buying good running clothes over ebay - good deals - because I've discovered that good running clothes really do make a difference (and I thought Jeremy just wanted to look good when he trained for those marathons). I broke down and joined the tech world and my running buddies by buying an IPod, so now I'm learning the ropes of my little Nano, and I do like her company on runs! The first run I wasn't so sure, but after my 4 mile today, I'm in love. The idea was to share with Jeremy, but I sure do like it all to myself. We're looking at investing in a mountain bike. Jer would love to go bike with the StoneWater Outdoors group that goes, and I would love to ride it to work - gas, you know. If gas really spikes like they're saying, a bicycle and motorcycle may be our primary modes of transport, and the bike would be paid of quickly in offset fuel cost. The kids' daycare is just a half mile away, so the jogging stroller would continue to be put to good use, too! Just call us thrifty, in a backward sort of way - spend money to save money!

The picture, by they way, is the kids on the StoneWater float for the 4th of July parade this year.

Catching up

Did I say I was going to be better since summer was more relaxed? Well, it has been a great summer. It's almost over, and I have that sad, but kind of excited thing going on.

Half-marathon training is underway and going well. Jennifer and I did a 6.5 mile run last week, and this week I just did a 5 mile. I got new shoes on Wednesday, and today was the day to start breaking them in. They felt good, just a little stiff, nothing that a couple dozen miles won't fix. I'm really feeling good, and love how much energy I have and how some of my old clothes are fitting (like that denim skirt I haven't worn since I found out I was having Hudson)! Most of it is outdated now, but my favorite denim skirt, favorite black pants, and favorite grey skirt can all come out from the back of the closet! Woo hoo.

My new passion is ebay for running clothes. When you run that far and that often, I have discovered that clothes really do make a difference. I have a couple of outfits that are cute, but a little tight in the shirt, and I just feel stressed out in them, so I've decided that it's worth my mental anguish to rid myself of them. It's fun.

Church is going well, we are about to move to a new location - Brawner Intermediate - and that is exciting simply for the extra room and better kids' facilities.

Hudson and Jenna are amazing. I can't believe I am actually a mother of two awesome kids (I almost said perfect, but, I just can't go there). Jenna is so smart and caring. She comforts her brother and shares compassionately with her friends. Hudson is adorable, and 100% cute or 100% unbearable right now. We've got to break that temper without breaking the sweet spirit behind it! We made our first birthday party list tonight. Jer and I have agonized over who to invite with all of our church friends, so we let Jenna make the list. It was a lot of fun to hear her list people and give her reasons (Abby, Howdy, and Rem (the family dogs) made the list). Hudson added Rusty, Pa White's longhorn, that he is in love with. This year Little Mermaid will meet with Curious George...it should be fun!

Sleepover

I have the pleasure of having one of my nephews, Carson, over to spend the night with Jenna tonight. I have now given the 15th warning of 'go to bed' and I don't think it is going to work, either.

Jeremy has been on the mission trip since Saturday, and boy do we all miss him. Jenna asks each morning, "Is Daddy coming home today?" She was quite glad to hear that tomorrow is the day this morning.

Jenna did an excellent job as flower girl in Cynthia's wedding. The wedding was beautiful. Jen very dutifully spread 3 to 4 petals every 4 steps. It was very methodical. She squirmed until Nana saved us with a LifeSaver (how appropriate), and then recessed out with the ring bearer with perfection. The cutest was the reception where she danced with the ring bearer. It made all the other dancing stop as everyone stopped to take pictures and video the cute little duo. He even spun her and tried to dip her, but she wasn't going for a dip.

Hudson had the pleasure of staying with Nana and Pawpaw White while we were doing the wedding. He still smiles and tells me about the "big cow" complete with arms spread apart to indicate big.

Yesterday I took the kids to Mom and Dad's to spend the night so she could keep them while I worked today. They were so ready to go! So, I had a restful, relaxing evening on my hands until 9:30 when my neighbor called. She suspected she had a dead chihuahua in her closet, and I assured her I would come to check. She was gone, alright. So, I stayed to let her break the news to the teenage girls, and then returned to help dig the burial plot. It was odd, but emotionless.

Well, it is time for warning #16, which will result in the end of Sleeping Beauty and the removal of flashlights. I'm glad they're having so much fun.

Squirrels Beware!

I took the kids to the park yesterday for our outing, and rather than play on a single piece of park equipment, they chased squirrels. I think the game was mutual, and the squirrels had a good time too. Jenna was the pointer; she would yell, "Squirrel!" and off they would run. They actually got close a couple of times, which made me nervous since I've seen what one of those cute little critters did to Gig'em when she caught one.

We have busied ourselves with too much fun. I experienced finger painting with Hudson for the first time - he was a mosaic of color and quite proud of himself. Jenna loves photography, with my digital camera, so it stays put up very high out of reach. Hudson continues to prove himself to be technology saavy (he dipped Jer's cell phone in a glass of water today). Hopefully quick action by me (pulling the battery off and slinging the water out) will save it. Otherwise, our bill for replacing church electronics will continue to mount (we'll add this to the cost of replacing the screen to the laptop after he dropped it).

Well, we haven't gone swimming yet today, and we're off to the resort next door. After all, we can't go a whole day without a swim!

Too much fun!

I just can't express how much fun this summer is proving to be.

Friday, at the conclusion of my 1 hour run (yes, 1 hour) I saw a garage sale just a road over from us with a lot of very girlie looking items, so I thought it would be fun to do something different and let Jenna shop all on her own (she has very good taste, so turning her loose in any store is scary). She had a ball, and we came home with a small box of 'stuff' for her money. One of her prize items was a pair of skates that strap on to tennis shoes. We had to take them on a trek down the road to her friend Marley's house. It was a long short block. She did finally get the concept of scooting her feet and not just relying on Mom and Dad to drag her or try to walk. Well, upon time to return home, she wanted to skate back, and we weren't into that. She stood, arms crossed, lips pouted, refusing to come with us, so we told her "Bye" and started walking. Hudson was right with us, jabbering and laughing and playing until he noticed Jenna wasn't with us. He turned, saw her, and ran to her. Half way he crossed his arms and pouted his lips and went and stood beside her. It was so cute I started laughing, and then Jeremy did. Our two kids were standing firm, arms crossed, lips pouted, and the little one didn't even know what he was fighting for!

Hudson decided tonight on our night swim that he wanted to swim without floaties. Jenna is doing great on her swimming, so I guess he's up for the challenge. So, we took them off and he delightedly jumped off the step - and he sunk. We brought him up, cheered, and he decided he liked it. So, he did it again, and again, and again. He won't kick, won't move his arms, just jumps and glides until he sinks and we bring him up. He never choked, so he's figured out how to hold his breath. It scares me to death, but with 4 adults in the pool each calling children, it has minimal risk. Still, soon mommy was demanding all floaties back on!

Church is still going well. I think we had around 300 today, and several people joined at new member's class today. Jacki joined, she feels called to get our single's ministry up and going. It is amazing to see people find a need and fill it - we don't have to do everything any more. Actually, there is so much going on, we can't even participate in everything! Rock on!

Lovin' Summer

I am lovin' summer. Perhaps that means I'll actually start blogging again. Sorry to those of you who do try to keep up with the family through this. I promise to do better, at least until August 15, and then I'll need a way to relieve my agnst - just kidding.

Well, in the three days of summer we have enjoyed, we have gone swimming 5 times (no lie), crafted 6 different craft projects (we're talking glue, scissors, paint, you name it), and left 4, yes, 4, loads of laundry in the floor to be folded. I might have to fold them tomorrow since we're having company for supper. I don't know who's having more fun, me or the kids.

Monday I barricaded the end of the driveway with the car so that I could pull weeds in the front flowerbeds with my helpers. My helpers are easy distracted, so I gave them chalk, bubble guns, and cheerios. Hudson had never chalked before, and I negelected the necessary information for my appointment with the crab grass that is taking over, and he was quite proud of his lime green chalk on Daddy's maroon truck. Good thing chalk just washes right off. He wasn't too impressed with the chalk, but Jenna has re-discovered her love, and now she can actually make letters. So, for those of you who used to be amazed at the chalk outlines of little bodies all up and down our sidewalk in Garland, there are no more homicidal outlines, now we have a barrage of letters - some spelling words, others just beautiful creations. Hudson prefers to 'ride' on the motorcycle or play in the car (keys out, windows down, emergency brake on) or scoot around on his 'motorcycle/tricycle.'

H is a talking machine. He can say anything he wants to. Of course he still prefers fits and screaming, but we're getting there. He is cute as everything and irresistible to all. This is beginning to get to big sister now. Jenna is amazing, absolutely amazing. There is nothing she can't do.

Jeremy is wonderful - still managing to figure out problems before they happen, planning, and having fun. We spent a couple of days dirt biking (me four-wheeling) in Gainsville with church friends two weekends ago (and I still have the bruises and poison ivy to prove all the fun). We arrived at the 'bunkhouse' and I saw a variety of dirt bikes and four wheelers - seriously, there were about 10 dirt bikes and 4 four wheelers. These people were serious - there were trails everywhere, some with names like 'dead man's drop' that looked appropriately named. I was only thrown off/jumped one time, which I considered a success considering I had never ridden an ATV, and Jeremy came home with no broken bones. One guy went home with a dislocated shoulder, but that was the worst. The funny thing is these hosts were twice our age and they were the wildest riders! I knew it would be a long trip when, at midnight, David, the host husband said, "Okay, is everyone comfortable? Good, open the windows, we can't run the generator all night." Are you kidding me? He wasn't. It was fun. Some of our roommates were funny guys and we laughed for a while before drifting off.

I am adjusting to summer life (and loving it) and already beginning to think about next year. I'll teach Jrs., AP Jrs., and Srs. next year. I love British literature (Srs.) but not the attitude that seems to accompany Seniors. It will be fun because I had some good kids this year! I am seeing a lot of favoritism, cynicism, and negativity, so that is bothering me. I guess part of it is that I have always been one of the favorites and on the 'inside' but managed to incorporate everyone and not make anyone feel left out while that is not the case here. There are many deliberate, hurtful actions and words that I'm praying for wisdom on how to react. That could be your prayer for me...

Almost home!

Just three days of school with students; four days of inservice. I'm almost free!

We have been so busy, I haven't even updated. I am sure some of you have given up on me, but I'm back.

Jenna is wonderful. She is sporting a new hair do - the self cut. Yep, it happened, it was bound to. She has some bangs again, something we had just grown out, but they aren't too bad. She is getting tall and skinny, and, unfortunately, all baby is gone. She's pure little girl. She giggles, talks, talks, talks, and plays. She is an excellent big sister - amazing at teaching Hudson with gentleness, and capable of pulling his hair in retaliation for wrongs committed. She was a star performer at her school music program last week. I am such a proud mother. She is a born performer!

Hudson is beginning to get taller - his arms and legs are getting long, and he is getting a little clumsier (believe it or not, he can be clumsier than he already was). Jeremy buzzed his hair again this evening, and that gave a little bit of baby back. He has a hilarious new game. Michael (my brother) brought a little stuffed cheetah cat for Jenna when he came home (he is back in the States for a month of R&R, and then reports to Ft. Sill, Oklahoma for training. He'll them be stationed somewhere in the US - NOT GERMANY!). Jenna pretended like the kitten bit her, and now Hudson pretends the cat bites him. He come to you holding out his finger, saying, "boo boo, ouch, no no kitty." After you kiss his finger, he goes to the kitty and says, "no no kitty." It is soooo cute.

Last weekend we took the kids camping for the first time. A great time was had by all. We had 34 people attend this family campout for StoneWater. I didn't get to visit with adults much, I was too busy keeping up with #1 and #2. We all crashed together in the tent, on the same air mattress. About 2:32 am I felt a bug scamper across my back, then realized I was laying on my back, so it couldn't be a bug. My dear little boy next to me had experienced a diaper failure and I was DRENCHED. You can't just change the sheets when you're camping, so a damp towel had to suffice. Not a good night's sleep, but a lot of fun! Enjoy the pictures. One is Hudson chillin' by the camp fire with his pacifier, hot dog, and flashlight. The other is Jenna getting to roast marshmallow #10. She likes those marshmallows.

3 weeks & counting

Only 3 weeks of school left! I can't believe I've almost made or that I still have so much to get done. I have truly been blessed by this job. Again today, Ann said, in reference to AP classes, if you want them, you have them. I gave her a hearty "I do" and smiled. I am teaching Gatsby to my AP classes now, so I can spend more time on the 'deep' stuff than explaining what is happening. It is exciting. I love this stuff!

The kids are awesome. Hudson is becoming quite a talker. He picks up new words constantly, and really likes to show them off. He can identify his nose, eyes, ears, belly button, and hair. He just gets a little too excited when pointing your nose and eyes. Ouch. He is still stubborn - yesterday he kept turning on the water faucet, not a little, but full blast. If I snuck over and turned it down, he would hold the hose up, look at the water, pucker his lips and look at me, and then march over and turn it back up. After a long battle, we took the knob off of the faucet with a wrench. He screamed and cried for 30 minutes. Yes, we give him time outs and spank, but there is a point where you have to stop and move on before it becomes child abuse.

Jenna is a great big sister. She knows the eternal triangle of discipling - distract, correct, time out. She is a great distractor for her brother. She knows all of her days of the week and months of the year, letters, shapes, she is just too smart for me to tell you! She is my helper and encourager - "Mommy, you can do it!" She relishes in having her friends come over and seeing them at baseball games and the park.

Last weekend we had the fish fry for StoneWater. There were 480 in attendance of the services (that includes the 150 kids), and most stayed for the fish fry, fishing, and bounce houses. Yes, fishing. We had a 50 gallon 'tank' set up with 200 catfish for fishing for the kids. It was awesome! That night we headed over to Joey and Lisa's for some time with them. They happen to have some kittens, and the kids were enthralled. Hudson was almost too loving, we had to explain 'gentle' and not to squeeze. He kept holding them under one arm on his hip and would walk around. Jenna just loved to cuddle and play and transport. Too cute...here are some pictures of the big weekend.