It is S-N-O-W C-O-L-D!

O.k.- so maybe it is not a flip flop kind of day...not even a croc day here folks! It is bone chilling cold outside! And so much to do today! Originally when we made the reservation we thought we would be heading South to Franklin today, but with funeral arrangements being delayed, we will not be heading South until the weekend. There is good and bad in that. Derek will be able to see more of his extended family, the girls can experience this new weather sensation, and we will again need to buy some new winter clothes! The bad news would be that we are in the middle of a hotel change! We are actually leaving the city (The Galt House has a huge function tonight, and could not extend our stay!) and heading over to the Hyatt near Hurstborne. This is the area that Derek actually grew up in. It may work out better because it is like Town Center in J-ville, so we have lots of options for food and entertainment! Not that we haven't been busy as ever here.

The last few nights we have attended a basketball tournament over in J-town and watched Derek's cousin play ball. Great basketball!
Derek and B made it into the Courier Journal here in Louisville- It is the local paper!

Today we are going to head over to the mall and attempt to find M some clothes for the wake and funeral as we didn't pack anything for that type of event! We got B taken care of yesterday, we are only lacking shoes for her! After Christmas sales are GREAT!

All in all are week is progressing and we are feeling love and peace! More updates to come!

New Face!

Well, we have had a little bit of down time today while Derek is finishing up the arrangements for the funeral Friday. We are staying at the Galt House (a great hotel) and they have this covered walkway in the sky that goes down to 4th Street Live. We have been out exploring all day today! Downtown Louisville has really proved to be quite interesting AND they even have a PANERA!

The weather isn't that bad today! Maybe we will not see snow this trip! M and B are excited about the trip back because we are going to the American Girl store in Atlanta!

Tonight we are going to another basketball game I believe, and we may even try to take in some college games while we are up here! The U of L campus is gorgeous and stretches along the highway! You should see the silos with University of Louisville written across them! It's great!

3rd Career --- Long Distance Truck Driver!

Well the Rowan's hit the road about 2:30 Saturday afternoon and rolled in Louisville, Kentucky about 4:30 a.m. Sunday morning! What a drive. It was pretty smooth all the way up until we hit Franklin, and then it poured like buckets rained for the next 2 1/2 hours!

I really do like driving at night when everyone is asleep! It is so neat to drive along and see the lights of distance towns come into clear focus. However, has anyone ever driven the stretch of 65 North from Nashville into Louisville? Well, just for the record, it was my first time, and let me just tell you about that pleasant ride! First of all, the rain probably did not help, nor the 1 1/2 hour dead stop delay while we waited for the accident to be cleared just South of Bowling Green- that's when the fun begin! If you have ever seen the movie Deliverance this ride was like Deliverance Road Style! I mean really the amount of really dark black narrow stretch of bad roads was UNBELIEVABLE! Had I been by myself, I probably would have really been Scared! Not to mention every trucker had to be on that road last night doing about 90mph! And, the scenery was Adult book stores / video stores with signs reflecting "Hell is Real" on either side!

I'm telling you, quite the drive! Just for laughs, I would say from mile marker 28 through about 86 is a rough go at night! We made it though and drove into the Galt House about 4:30!

Today was rough to say the least. Derek's dad passed about 6:00pm Saturday evening and today was spent at the hospital / funeral home attempting to make arrangements!

We are in a really neat area in downtown Louisville, so I will post some cool pics later!

On the Road A-G-A-I-N

Yes friends, the Rowan's are hitting the road again! Tomorrow after a class movie field trip we will be heading to Louisville to visit Derek's dad in the burn unit at University of Louisville Hospital. It is about a 12 hour drive for us, and hopefully Derek will get to spend some time with his dad and family. Last Thursday his dad was involved in a horrible kerosene accident, and received burns over 65% of his body. Today we received a call asking Derek to come up because his dad is not doing well at all. He has a raging infection, unstable vitals, and the original grafts have not taken.

We will stay at the Galt House Hotel which is actually on the Ohio River. It is located right near the hospital and right in the middle of the downtown area.

We will stay until Wednesday when we will head back down to Franklin and see my family there for a few days. Depending on how Derek's dad does, we may head back to Louisville Saturday, or we will head home and Derek will just fly back if he needs to the next weekend!

Here are two quick pictures from Christmas morning! We did have a great holiday with family and friends!

Today when we got up, we both started taking down and putting up our Christmas stuff- We started that last year, and we really like having the house ready for the new year! There is something to be said about "Boxing Day". It works out great now that we will be gone for the next week!

As we take off on yet another long journey, we are excited to finally get to visit with Derek's family and friends in Louisville. More pictures from the road as we get to encounter great snow and more C-O-L-D weather (a stark difference from our balmy 80 degrees here!)

What is Your Reason for the Season?

Peppermint is getting ready to make his journey home! We are a little sad to see him go, but no he will be back again next year! One of our tables is ready!

The house this year!

We even let the dogs come out and play!

We have started so many fun things as a family, but as the true meaning of this season draws close to us, we are reminded of all we have, all that has been given to us, and our responsibility as Christians in toady's times!

As we prepare to head out to church for the reading of the true Christmas story....

Luke 2
1And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed.
2(And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)
3And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.
4And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)
5To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.
6And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.
7And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.
8And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.
9And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.
10And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
11For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
12And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.
13And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,
14Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
15And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.
16And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.
17And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.
18And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.
19But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.
20And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.
21And when eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the child, his name was called JESUS, which was so named of the angel before he was conceived in the womb.
22And when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were accomplished, they brought him to Jerusalem, to present him to the Lord;
23(As it is written in the law of the LORD, Every male that openeth the womb shall be called holy to the Lord;)
24And to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord, A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.
25And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him.
26And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord's Christ.
27And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law,
28Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said,
29Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word:
30For mine eyes have seen thy salvation,
31Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people;
32A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.
33And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him.
34And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against;
35(Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.
36And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser: she was of a great age, and had lived with an husband seven years from her virginity;
37And she was a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day.
38And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.
39And when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city Nazareth.
40And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him.
41Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the passover.
42And when he was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem after the custom of the feast.
43And when they had fulfilled the days, as they returned, the child Jesus tarried behind in Jerusalem; and Joseph and his mother knew not of it.
44But they, supposing him to have been in the company, went a day's journey; and they sought him among their kinsfolk and acquaintance.
45And when they found him not, they turned back again to Jerusalem, seeking him.
46And it came to pass, that after three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them questions.
47And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers.
48And when they saw him, they were amazed: and his mother said unto him, Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us? behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing.
49And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father's business?
50And they understood not the saying which he spake unto them.
51And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart.
52And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.

I Know... A Long Overdue Update!

Well here it is, my long overdue post! I know many of you think, as my younger brother so eloquently stated that I have all this free time with my break until the New Year time to sit around and update everybody on what's going on....
Last week was pretty much a blur, in a good kind of blurry way. We were crazy busy with many activities for school and dance. It started Sunday with Hanging of the Green, and just kept going. Check out our school BLOG to see our great school support night at McDonald's! We raised $507.00 dollars in just 3 short hours! Now, the fun begins as 100+ people try to decide how to spend that money! I personally would like to buy an industrial snow cone machine for the kids, but many of my cohorts want to buy WHITE COPY PAPER which just will drive me nuts!

We ended the week on Friday, taking my mom out to eat for her 61st birthday! It was a great time, and I think she enjoyed it! Thank goodness for Kan-chi and Publix!

Saturday Derek and my brother and his girlfriend went to the Gator game - they said it was a good time, I would not know because I was at home deathly ill from some kind of nasty food poisoning as best we can tell. Was not fun, but I have survived! Thank goodness the house was spotlessly cleaned and the yard immaculately done prior to about 5:30!

Today we did something that we have never done before. We rode the SKYWAY Express to Hemming Plaza downtown and walked to the Main Library and the Landing for lunch! Thank goodness for those honest homeless men that made my children nervous and assisted us in the right "tram order!" Even though we watched them "jump" the fair line! They were quite harmless and ended us guiding us right to the Park!
Lo and Behold! When we arrived Santa was waiting on us... So much for mailing those letter late, he told the girls not to worry,-

And yes, this big hawk was there too! Many people in the park said it is rare to see a hawk there during the middle of the day, but hey the rats must have been near!

The main library was well worth the taxpayer money! I'd actually vote to give more if they would redo the library by our house. But they did have this great display of "book" themed Christmas trees. They were so fun to look at!

This was our first outing of the break! Tomorrow I have a few errands to run, the grocery store, and then I think we are going to see the Cummer for even more Trees!

Peppermint is still around for a few more days, - today he was in the kitchen! I will post his location tomorrow! Enjoy this time - Don't forget the true reason for the season!

He's been busy!

Hey Gabby! We didn't mean to leave you out last time! Where is Joe hiding? Andrew, have you been able to find Joe every morning? Briley and Macey have had to look a little harder lately!

Peppermint is finding his way around!

Hi Andrew! We are excited you are keeping up with Peppermint! He has been all over! It is hard to believe Christmas is almost here! How is Joe doing? Is he hiding from you? Peppermint flew into B's closet last night! They were shocked that he was sitting with Pooh and Tigger!

The End Is Near!

This semester has really stretched my abilities both time wise and mentally! It was probably the hardest of all my semesters at school this last go 'round. It just seemed like there was never enough time, and a new dance studio, new school year, putting the house up for sale, being a mom... (you get the picture!)- Anyways, I have one paper left to write this term, and then no school until 1/3! It will be my last official semester of classes, and hopefully that dissertation will be completed during that time as well.
I am mentally preparing myself for the long break. No big plans, just cleaning out some closets, reading some really great books, and spending time with the family. It is going to be great!
When I started this journey, I never dreamed it would be over so quickly- it amazes me how fast time goes by.
"Let the peace that Christ gives control your thinking, because you were all called together in one body to have peace. Always be thankful." Colossians 2:15
I am so thankful this Christmas Season. Thankful for my family, friends, and for the ability to trust in God's peace!"

We Made It Back....

Anyway, I hope you get the idea!

This by far is the cutest thing we have done in a long time at school! Our kids got "elfed!" for our holiday door contest! They are so cute! It's kind of fuzzy! I am trying to hold out until after Christmas to replace my camera that is only working at 50% (the last drop did her in!)

Yeah! Our Christmas tree is up! Not decorated, because notice the elf is in the tree! And we can't touch the elf! We are trying to get everything ready to go up this weekend!

This little guy is the BEST thing ever! He was all the rave in Tennessee. To be honest, I had never heard of him before,- needless to say he showed up on our doorstep Tuesday all the way from the North Pole in his own little special box, with a book that explains his story "Elf on a Shelf"! It has been great excitement as he moves around here! B and M have told everybody about him and even took the book to school today! It's so neat to see them excited!

Oh the drive Sunday was LONG! Lots of traffic through Atlanta, but all in all it was certainly worth the trip! We had a great time in Franklin visiting family, looking at property, and playing with my nephew and his best friend! We were sad to go Sunday! Some fun moments of our trip included Derek winning the "high" score on the basketball game at Chuck E Cheese- M, B, and my nephew thought that was just the coolest thing ever! I had never seen so many ladybugs before- they were everywhere on the property! It was so quiet and peaceful there!

It's hard to believe we are already at Thursday night! Just eleven more days of school to go, and then we have a nice long break! (A much needed break might I add!) I had considered traveling around a bit during the long break, but NO!! I am staying put- cleaning the house, sleeping, reading some good books, and of course really stepping up to complete that dissertation!

My goals for next year include: 1. Learning to say NO and not feel guilty, 2. As my principal would say "Let it go", and 3. Get back to having some really good times- No stress, no school, now worries!

" No one has ever seen this, and no one has ever heard about it. No one has ever imagined what God has prepared for those who love him!" 1 Corinthians 2:9

Still In Franklin!

It has been a great trip, and we are sad to be leaving tomorrow! The weather has been beautiful up here, and the girls have loved playing with their cousin!
There is so much to do in the next few weeks, and I pray that it all comes together at the right time! Two more weeks of school for me, and three more for us at Beauclerc before we have a nice long winter break!

.... More later

Under the Cover of Darkness!

We crept into Brentwood last night about 3:30 our time (2:30 TN time) to a chilly 26 degrees! What a great drive at night! Coming through Chattanooga with all the lights was awesome! Thanks to some coffee from McDonalds (not Starbucks by any means) I did make the entire drive while the fam slept, chatted, and watched movies! B thought it was dinner time when we arrived so she stayed up and ate a can of soup!
My only picture from the trip up... We stopped in Tifton to eat, and guess where we ate! B was so stoked that the Cow was there along with about 1,000 other people! All in all I say we timed it right, because as we were leaving a large (100+) group of middle school kids came in! It's not to bad up here today.... more pics later!

Reflection

A post I have been thinking about for awhile, how to say all the things I have thought about without sounding crass or sarcastic (because you all know, I am the best at Sarcastic!).............
Nasty... that is what you could describe some people I know. Funny how they actually bump into my orbit, because you see, under any other circumstances they would not have that chance. And they are not just nasty to me, they are nasty to all those that come up with the idea before them, or maybe have a higher knowledge, or maybe just a nicer person in general. It has really baffled me to the point where I truly believe the lies they hide, and the deception they attempt to keep from others make them this way. (That and the fact, they probably had a horrible HS career!) I mean seriously when you are above 30 and are worried about being popular- well anyway that is a whole other issue! You choose to be nasty, - plain and simple. Some would say it comes from a faulty ego, or the inability to see yourself as worthy. Others would argue that they simply don't see themselves that way- I believe after countless hours of discussing that they are just miserable- They are in a situation, a lifestyle choice, a marriage, a circumstance that they are truly unhappy or embarrassed by. So to ease the pain of their own tortured soul they inflict chaos and pain wherever they travel. To be able to spread lies, create turmoil, and take cheap shots is almost a game for them. The more they see the more they do- I almost chuckle at how miserable they must be. And again, it is their choice to be so nasty! But, it is consistent! With anyone who may think differently than them, or they feel threatened by.
I have prayed over this "nasty" all year. Not for them, but for me- to escape the mental warfare they so desire. For me it has gotten better, and it just keeps getting better. To the point now, I actually almost feel sorry for their cheap disposition. In Proverbs 4 - which has been a great chapter for me, the BIBLE says, " I am guiding you in the way of wisdom, and I am leading you on the right path- NOTHING will hold you back, you will not be overwhelmed. Always remember what you have been taught- DO not let go of it..... Stay away from evil they cannot rest until they harm someone, keep away from the paths of evil." God has just blessed my family this year above and beyond. He has carried us, provided for us, and held us so the throws of the world have just bounced on by! It has been wonderful!
I believe the devil is the root of all evil- trying to reason with nasty is like arguing with a drunk! Not wasting time, not being conflicted, and now having this feeling of sorrow for them makes me aware of how I have grown as a person. I don't live my life as a lie, I don't take pleasure in creating havoc, and I certainly don't need carnal gratification- This nasty is Satan spawned- and it's sad... to know that those that take such glory in the flesh, will burn in hell with their tormented twisted unsaved hearts- I choose to believe that the carnal choice they made will prevent them from ever seeing or knowing Christ- and that is such a shame.
So if you are a BLOG stalker (LOL), a friendly reader, a great friend, or just a passer by- Pray for Nasty- pray that they would "Come to the water, you who thirst, so they will thirst no more!" And if you are Nasty... well I leave you with this "do not be interested only in your own life, but be interested in the lives of others" Philippians 2:4

On a much lighter note.... we leave for Franklin Tuesday- should get there late Tuesday night, and we can't wait to see the place! Expect lots of pictures and great views from the top! It has been a great week at school, Tuesday we fed our parents Ziti- Check out the other Blog, Wednesday our choirs sang GREAT for their Christmas music practice, and today, we received 3 new LONG bookshelves and 4 MAC computers for the classroom! Don't let anybody fool you, GOD IS GOOD! and he wants your to prosper.... The plans he laid for you are GOOD!

A trip to Publix.....

Grocery shopping at Publix today was quite an experience! You would think it was 12 days until Christmas. We could not believe all the Christmas stuff that was out- foods, toys, decorations, tableware,- you name it- Publix had it! When I was little, I used to love this time of year. My family would spend the entire time getting ready- chopping down a tree (literally!), decorating, baking, wrapping presents, being involved in church activities,- it was just an awesome experience- BUT that experience did not start until the day after Thanksgiving- my personal all time favorite holiday! I can remember wanting to go to the local Pic-N-Save and see their toy Christmas display- it was awesome. They had these glass boxes with all kinds of battery powered toys, race tracks, trains, etc.- The stores just came alive AFTER Thanksgiving. And, not one day before! When did it all change? I remember being in Lowes with the girls right before Halloween picking up some bird seed, and seeing aisles of Christmas decorations already out. M and B thought that was quite odd too- but our society seems to push the commercialism of the holiday.

B is in the church Christmas musical this year, (M has a tap class on Wednesdays) and I have really impressed her upon the reason for the season. They are doing the Christmas County Spelling Bee and when I hear our children choirs sing those songs, I think, do they really understand the message? And then, when I teach my students on Sunday mornings, and we talk about the songs, the season, and the spirit of Christmas, I leave their with hope that yes- they really do get it! It gives me hope that they have not lost the true meaning, and will rejoice with their families about the birth of Christ!

It becomes a great time of reflection for me, this holiday season. I think I can say that I have arrived, that I am content with where I am and what I have. In my earlier years, as I am sure D and E can attest I was a little crazy with order and perfection. Now, I know, that there are some of you that would still say that I am still that way, but I can honestly say I have relaxed a lot (o.k, maybe a bit), and given up some of the order and perfection. I can even say, that it doesn't bother me MOST of the time when I let things slide at the urging of my chaotic family. There are those rare moments, when I feel the house isn't up to par, the cabinets and closets are a mess, and the perfect world that I dream about has been lost forever, much to my families delight! And it does still drive me a little crazy! But I have come to realize that taking the kids to the park, reading a good book, or typing a great paper is just as important as order and perfection. I've always thought God had the best humor, and matching me up with my husband and kids is quite amusing! They are certainly playful, cheerful, and relaxed (well, maybe not M), but none of them have that "no stuff laying around syndrome" unless of course you count bodies! In looking back, I can see how the balls I juggle have become less, and the time I have has become so much more. My faith, my family, and my friends have all appeared at the right time, and with the right dose of encouragement and love.

As we approach Thanksgiving, we are reminded to be thankful. My family is blessed we have enough, we have been given Spiritual wisdom, and we have each other. We will continue to give thanks and count our many blessings! We will not fall into the commercialism of this time of year, we will not forget the most precious gift that was given to us, that did not cost, that was not out of our reach, and that did not cause us great stress! We will rejoice in the true Spirit of this holiday season - time that we will spend with family and friends, church activities, and reflection about how great our lives have become!

" Come into this city with songs of thanksgiving and into his courtyards with songs of praise. Thank him and praise his name. The Lord is good. His love is forever, and his loyalty goes on and on" - Psalm 100:4-5.
Do not stress this holiday season my friend, the one you need is loyal forever. Do not worry about the pressures of what's under the tree, rather teach those around you the true meaning of this blessing we call Christmas

"Give glory to God in heaven, and on earth let their be peace among the people who please God." - Luke 2:14

Just a few pictures!

Who is this new Rowan you ask- Why in true Hannah Montannah fashion, that would be Jennifer, B's alter ego! Yes, she is a ham!

M is glad it is Thursday! We survived another week of dance, school, and activities! M had another Dr. appt. Wed. for a sonagram- She is happy that is over, but by far, that is the easiest test she has had! M said it was very relaxing! LOL! I think she is talking about the one on her kidneys!

24 weeks......

That is how many weeks are left in my school career! It is amazing to think that the journey is that close to being over. I have such a calm about it, even though working with my chair and IRB is a bit hair raising at times, I finally feel like it is worth it! I feel like the dissertation is no longer bigger than me, and that it truly is just another paper. It has finally become calm. I feel like the journey has been worth the struggle. I am glad my doctoral partner through this process has been the support I need when I needed it, because you just don't know how hard it has been at times to juggle this mess! She has truly kept me balanced, (as I have her!) and helped me to see the light at the end! It is one of those things that when we are both older and she is still raising kids- and mine are gone that we will laugh for hours at some of the situations we have found ourselves in with school! My family has also helped out and endured countless "meals on the go" without too much complaint! And the house, well you might not be able to eat off the floor anymore, but as D says... it just looks lived in! We make do, so that this journey can finally be fulfilled for me! And then, who knows what our plans are. But I am looking forward to no more deadlines, or grueling weekends and late nights cranking out papers! The ability to just relax and hang out is something that has me excited! I still can't believe that I have managed to do this and survived!
This last week was just nuts... It just seemed like everything was coming up, and kids had to be in multiple places, and the family had obligations,- it was just crazy- but we survived without - a major trip to Publix for groceries (no one starved!)! It was one of those weeks where the to do list just became almost laughable! I kept going back to these scriptures:
"We also have joy with our troubles, because we know that these troubles produce patience, and patience produces character, and character produces hope. And this hope will never disappoint us, because God has poured out his love to fill our hearts." Romans 5: 3-5
I know that God is good to us, and I chuckle thinking about the good plans he has for us - you know the one that calls for a majorly stressed out doctoral student trying to raise 2 kids while shopping, cooking, and cleaning and keeping D organized! It is truly quite funny at times! But well worth it!
We still have our house up and know that God has a plan for that as well. We are excited to see Franklin at Thanksgiving. In researching TN for teacher certification I have found that my transfer of license will be just fine, and the great state of TN has no certification fees! Plus, they like FL will pay more for National Boards and advanced degrees! We know it will work out and truly believe the timing will be right for all of us.
I can see when I have time to sit back and reflect how God has placed the right people in front of me at the right times! Those that give support, those that enhance my personal and spiritual beliefs, those that make me laugh in spite of myself, and those that truly care about my family! Again, HE is just so good to US!

Trick or Treat

B was the USA Cheerleader!

M was the Charm School Wizzard

They had a great time getting ready to leave to get their treats!

The Cheesecake Factory had great pumpkins carved all the way down their walk!

Who is that pirate?

The girls had a great time at the Town Center trick-or-treating! They received lots of good candy!

By far, the best part of the night was a late dinner at Paneras!

Gabe enjoyed dinner too!

It's Finally Cold!

B and M finally met there cousin this week, and were they excited! So excited they for one quick second thought they wanted their very own!

This morning when we finally got out of bed it was 34 degrees! YAY!!!! We have been waiting for cooler weather! The high today will be in the low sixties!

Where Does the Day GO?

The Blue Angels are in town this weekend, so from the driveway we were able to watch the "east" side of their show! You forget how loud one Blue Angel is let alone 6! The girls absolutely love it, but not enough that they wanted to truck across the river to watch.

Meanwhile, I have also worked on a paper today that is about to drive me insane! It has about 6 parts, and only about 1/2 are really through! Can you believe we are already finishing up week 8, and there are only 15 in the semester! It is almost over, I mean November is next Saturday.
I was looking on-line at pictures of Franklin today to see if there would be any leaves left for our Thanksgiving visit- I don't know, but I think it will still be neat to walk around and see property and anticipate what it would be like to live there.

Our new favorite store for clothes for M and B! Everything fits and is APPROPRIATE!! M is so good about starting HW when she gets to my room in the afternoon! She has about 30 minutes from when she is dismissed until we actually leave (Most days anyway!)

B received a new Junie B Jones book Saturday, and when she came into my room yesterday, she sat down and immediately started to READ!

The Weekend!

Sometimes you need to just get away! Other than the four hours I spent at School Saturday that is exactly what I did this weekend! No schoolwork (personal or job!), no housework, and no yard work! We really just hung out as a family and enjoyed each other with no chores to interfere! This morning I felt a little overwhelmed, but hey, it will get done!


B had a solo this Sunday at church... this was during practice (so, during her actual Solo her friends weren't looking at her!) By the way, that is my Sunday School Class, but I am not their choir director! Can't you tell how happy M is to be here? Needless to say we will reshoot these pictures another day!

Lots and Lots of pumpkins at the 2nd Festival!

B again got to go for a ride! I have not seen a ride like this in a long time!

Equal time in front of the camera, even though M wasn't too excited, I did take multiple pictures of her!

What a weekend! The weather finally changed somewhat here in Florida- It was actually about 70 degrees all weekend, and last night when we were leaving our 2nd Fall Festival it was 65 degrees! And yes, in the pictures M is in shorts - (BUT, she does have on a jacket!)

Continue to think good things,....

Sometimes we have a hard time trusting God's plan for us. What may seem impossible for us, is not impossible for God. We also continue to get things confused - our personal plans vs. HIS plans for us. To help us follow HIS plan, we should obey what he tells us, and ask God for help and trusting him to answer! On a lighter note, this week I know God doesn't mind the house is a little out of wack, and the school work will be a little intense, - I know that good things will happen, and the GOOD plans for me have already been laid!

God says, "Be quiet and know that I am God" Psalm 46:10.