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.

refreshed & renewed

We went (Jeremy and I) to Phoenix, Arizona, this past weekend for the wedding of Jamie and Dan - Jer conducted the ceremony. It was an awesome weekend! The flight, of which I was very uneasy, was smooth and enjoyable. The weather was perfect; I especially liked the dry air - we ran for a whole hour Sunday morning. I loved it. The wedding was easily the most beautiful I have ever been to - outside in a flower garden with a gazebo, fountains, gorgeous! And, at the reception Jeremy and I had a table all to ourselves - how romantic! When we returned, Jenna and Hudson were very happy to see us - Hudson even started calling Jer 'dada' instead of 'mama' for the first time in months!

StoneWater is being blessed by God. There were 400 in attendance the last two Sundays, though we do as for prayer for workers for SteppingStone. We have been strong, but as we continue to grow, we continue to need dedicated workers to meet the needs of our children. Jeremy took a propsal to the school district today - we are in negotiations for the building on the square. Their first off was double what we would like (and be able) to pay, so we countered. We'll see - God knows and we're praying and believing He will do what He does best, love us and show us his will!

Happiest Birthday party every!

Today was my best birthday party ever. I came home and found a clean house. When the doorbell rang, I had one beautiful princess with a boquet of pink flowers. Hudson was equally thoughtful, and brought a boquet of flowers, alstromeria, as well. He was nice enough to let Daddy carry them and give them to me while he checked out the doorbell.

We had a great evening together, and the kids gave me the card they chose - it had a monkey on it and they both just giggled and giggled when I opened it.

Tonight at bed Jenna told me she was 'so happy' that she was my little girl and would be my little girl forever. She told me I could always pick her up until she was 15 and then I couldn't any more. Ahh, the sweetness.

Jennifer brought me lunch at school today, and I spent the first 3 hours with the non-testing sophomore watching King Kong. We didn't get to finish it, and that stunk.

I just have to give my biggest fear right now. My grandmother is a geneologist, and I guess I inherited a fascination for lineage. Whenever we were in the cemetery, I would look at different tombstones - unique messages, and who died on their birthday. Since Jeremy and I fly out on Friday (my actual birthday), I am scared to death that we are going down. I'm not so afraid of dying, but of leaving my kids...I know it's an irrational fear, so pray for me (and that my kids are safe!).

Run, run, run

I am still running, and loving it! It feels good to run and be able to think beyond survival - surviving the run, that is.

School is good, and church is good. Let me tell you about my kids...

Hudson is learning to talk more and more - he is fascinated with 'cows' and he'll point them out yelling louder and louder until you acknowledge him. He still loves to be outdoors or playing in one of the cars. My car is pretty safe since he can't move the parking break. He'll spend an hour in there (and find things you have looked for for years (like the permanent marker that now decorates my console)).

Jenna is my princess. We cut about three inches off of her hair today, and it all curls so beautifully now. She is a little whiney, and a little moody, so that's a humbling experience for me. She loves to take care of her babies, and is a compassionate mother.

Jeremy continues to thrive in his hectic, crazy, and fulfilling job as pastor of StoneWater. Monday he will speak to the school board again in regard to renting a building downtown. Pray that it would go well and God's will would be fulfilled.

Love you guys - and - know there is a news email coming, somewhat soon!