Update on Adoption Process

I realize from all the questions I have been getting that I have not updated everyone on our adoption process. Well, our paperwork is completed and our social worker, Robin, has completed our case study. We are now officially in the "book" that the birthmothers look through. So, what do we do next? Honestly...all we can do is wait and pray. It could take a long time for us to be matched or it could happen next week. Just keep us in your prayers!

Also, this will probably be the last entry for 2007. I hope everyone has a wonderful 2008! Happy New Year!

Christmas Celebrations

As my mom pointed out to me earlier tonight, it has been awhile since I updated my blog. So, I thought I would give a quick overview of my Christmas holiday. On Christmas Eve Jeromy, Mom and I went out to dinner at Cousino's Steakhouse and then we went to church. It was a lovely service. Luke 2 was read with carols mixed throughout. It was nice to go to a Christmas Eve service where the congregation is given the opportunity to truly worship God and celebrate the birth of His son, Jesus.

On Christmas, Jeromy and I opened gifts that we had bought for one another. Jeromy bought me a very nice jewelry box, a couple Boyd's Bears (which I collect) and some DVDs. I bought Jeromy some of the woodworking tools that he has been asking for and a MP3 player. Here's a picture of Jeromy with a couple of his gifts:



Here's a picture of me with a Boyd's Bear that Jeromy gave me. He said that he decided on this one because of the "eggs on legs" joke that we have.



For lunch we headed to my mom's house where we met up with everyone to celebrate the Christmas holiday. On Christmas we celebrate with the Sanderson side of the family. This includes my Uncle Jim and Aunt Judy (along with Gail and Bert and Jimmy and Jen), my Aunt Cindy (Bobby, Samantha, Brad and Lizzie) and my Uncle Scott. We had a good time hanging out with everyone. Then, on Wednesday, we headed over to Kelly's house for another Christmas celebration. We had to put off the celebration with my mom and sisters because Julie had to work both Christmas Eve and Christmas. Here are some pictures of our celebration:


Elena chilling by the fireplace.


Alex opening his Scooby Doo computer game that Jeromy and I gave him.


Alex helping Grandma open the gift that he bought her at Santa Shop.


Grandma playing Operation with Alex and Elena.

I don't think I have ever posted pictures of my sisters (aside from the elves). Here are some pictures that I took that night:


Laura and her fiancee, Andy (they are getting married in March).


Kelly, her husband Monny and their dog Lucky.


Julie and her boyfriend, Lee

We had a great time together that night. We don't get a lot of opportunities to spend together any more.

Christmas was busy, but it was a nice time with family.

This Just In...

Another Elf! This time it is my sister Julie and her boyfriend Lee dancing around as elves. Check it out here!

Baking Cookies...A new Tradition

When we were young it was a yearly tradition to make our sugar cut out cookies as a family. Now that we are older we have not kept up that tradition. However, this year Kelly had the idea that we should make cookies together as a family each year at mom's house. I teased her it was because she didn't want the mess at her house (she didn't deny it). Anyways, tonight was the first excursion for our new tradition. It turned out that Julie and Laura were not there, but Kelly, Mom, and I worked with Alex and Elena to make our cut outs. Jeromy was there as well for a brief time but he just supervised. Here are some pictures from our "interesting" night.



Within moments of beginning the process, Elena managed to cover herself in flour.



Alex was not as messy as Elena (of course, he was not necessarily clean). We were surprised to discover that he has got the skills of a chef. Within moments he was rolling dough, expertly using cookie cutters, and carefully moving the cookies to the cookie sheet. He made a lot of our perfect looking cookies.



Kelly and Alex decorating the cookies. Alex did a wonderful job decorating as well. Below is a picture of his cookie which he called his "United States Army" cookie. He has a fascination with the Army recently.





I had left for a half hour to take Jeromy home and run an errand for Mom. When I returned, I found Elena sitting on a stool eating sprinkles with a spoon directly from the bottle (that bottle was not being used any more thankfully). She is going to have such the bellyache tomorrow.

One Big Happy Elvish Family

Everyone seems to be getting "elfed." Click here to check out Kelly and her family as elves and click here to check out Laura and Andy.

This is the funniest thing this Christmas!

Hilarious!

Okay, everyone else is posting themselves as elves and I wanted to try it too. Click here to see Jeromy and I dancing around as elves.

Are You Kidding Me?

Yes, school was cancelled today. We have now had three days cancelled. It is nice to get unexpected days off, but we only get five of them and then we have to start making them up. I really don't want to go too far into the summer.

Even though it was annoying to have another day off, I did have fun. I ended up going shopping with mom, Kelly, Elena, and Makenzie (the little girl Kelly babysits). We started off by putting Alex and Zoe (Kelly's friend's little girl who is in Alex's kidnergarten class) on the bus, then we headed off to the Southwyck Mall. I didn't know there were any stores still left in that mall. I was surprised to hear that there were, so off we went. While we were at the mall Kelly and I rode the merry-go-round with the girls. I took a few pictures, but I must have forgot to save them. The only picture I have is this one that my mom took of me and Elena. It is really blurry, but it does show how fast the merry-go-round was moving. Elena and I actually got dizzy by the time we got off.



We made other stops as well and aside for one thing that I still need to buy, I am finished shopping for Christmas.

Oh...The Weather Outside is Frightful...

Can you tell I have been listening to a lot of Christmas music? Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow is a favorite of mine, but I didn't want this much snow. We woke up this morning expecting snow, but we were not expecting so much. After looking out the window we decided that we would not risk the roads and drive to Elmore and would go to Hope Community (ONC's new name)instead. But, when we turned on the TV we found that Hope Community was cancelled (as well as every other church in the Toledo area). They say we may even have a delay or cancellation of school tomorrow because of the snow blowing. I would like a delay, but I don't know what I think about three cancellation days before Christmas. That's almost guaranteeing us makeup days in June.

For those of you out of town, here are some pictures of the snow. A little fun fact would be that this was the second time Jeromy plowed the driveway. The first time was around 10:30 and these pictures were taken around 3:00. The picture of the pool depresses me. I can't wait for summer.

Benefits of Being a Teacher

Okay, so there are a lot of benefits of being a teacher. The largest benefit of all is the unexpected day off. Today we had our second day off (we had a day off last week on Wednesday). There was an ice storm last night and school was cancelled all over the city. To celebrate the day off, Michelle and I joined my mom on her shopping exhibition. We had a nice time shopping all over the city of Toledo. We even had a stopover at Kelly's house. There is a chance that school will be cancelled tomorrow as well (there is another ice storm coming through tonight). Of course, I already have the day off due to a doctor's appointment. I guess we will just have to wait and see...

More Time with Alex and Elena

Last month Jeromy and I had an opportunity to spend time with Alex and Elena. During our evening together we spent some time at the downtown branch of the library (They are both big fans of the library). I am finally able to send the pictures I took with my phone to my e-mail account so that I can post them. Here are a few of the cuter ones. The first two are of the kids "chilling" in the jeep based on the book Sheep in a Jeep (a favorite book). The final picture is of Alex and the Cat in the Hat.

Spamalot

On Friday night, Jeromy, Michelle, and I headed off to the Stranahan Theater to see Monty Python's Spamalot. It was hilarious! It is the musical rendition of the movie Monty Python and the Holy Grail. It was also a parody of musicals in general. We had a lot of fun! If you want to see some video clips of the musical, click here. I would highly suggest this musical to any fan of the movie. It's great!

Very Well Said!

I am currently reading Lifestories by Mark Hall (the lead singer and songwriter for the Christian musical group Casting Crowns. This book discusses how God spoke to him as he wrote many of his songs. Last night I was reading the chapter about the song If We are the Body. His insight is one many of us already know, but he says so nicely I wanted to write it here.

First Corinthians 12 peeled away a big layer. I learned that everybody has a ministry in the Church. Ministry isn't reserved for only the people onstage. I once thought that if you didn't sing or act or speak - or if you weren't off in Africa wearing one of those little missionary shirts - you weren't in ministry. I mistakenly believe that I was just part of the audience. Eventually, I discovered that there is no audience in the Body of Christ. There are only believers. We're the body. We're the hands, the feet, the ears, and the toes, and when everyone in the body isn't performing ministry, the body suffers. It limps and crawls. It doesn't work. I was trying to show my kids that we're the first and primary way that Jesus is going to love on others. He's got to love them through us. That's His design for the Church. We are their clearest picture of Jesus, and how we act is how they're going to see God.

Way too many Christians forget that this is God's plan for the Church. They either sit back and become part of the "audience" instead of part of the Body or they take on the whole job and try to become the entire body themselves. I have known both types. No matter which way a person falls they cripple the Body of Christ. God made the Body to work together to win victories for His kingdom. God has given each of us different skills which we need to use in ministry to serve Him.

To use the words from If We are the Body...

But if we are the body
Why aren't His arms reaching?
Why aren't His hands healing?
Why aren't His words teaching?
And if we are the body,
Why aren't His feet going?
Why is His love not showing them there is a way?
There is a way.

Michigan/Ohio State Game

Okay, I know it has been a few weeks since the big game but this picture was really cute. Jeromy and Elena were supporting Ohio State and Alex is a Michigan fan (Go Blue!). We were enjoying the game at Uncle Jim and Aunt Judy's house. Some fun memories from that day included Uncle Jim's tirades during the game ("What about that number 9!") and frustration about the Beyonce commercial ("She's gyrating, GYRATING!" - a huge amount of disgust in his voice with hips swiveling). Anyways, here's the picture...

Oh...How Times Have Changed!

I am reading Under God by Toby Mac and Michael Tait (two members of DC Talk) as part of my devotion time. I read something the other night that really struck me.

Thanks to the constitutional mandate of Article I, Section 5, Paragraph 3, every debate and every vote that has taken place in Congress from 1774 to the present is recorded in the public records. As a result of this mandate, the american people are able to read exactly what happened when Congress first moved into the Capitol.

On December 4, 1800, just a few weeks after moving into the building, Congress decided that the Capitol would also serve as a church building. This fact is not only recorded in the Annals of Congress but also confirmed in the journals of various representatives and senators serving at that time.

For example, Senator John Quincy Adams recorded on Octoboer 30, 1803:

Attended public service at the Capitol where Mr. Ratoon, an Episcopalian clergyman from Baltimore preached a sermon.

Just a week earlier he'd written:

Religious service is usually performed on Sundays at the Treasury Office and at the Capitol. I went both forenoon and afternoon to the Treasury.

Thus began the longstanding - and congressionally sanctioned - practice of using government buildings as houses of worship.

I think everyone would agree that this would not happen today. What has happened to turn our government and country away from the dreams of our forefathers.

There is no list!

That is the response we received at work just days after the failed levy. Everyone is worried about their jobs (with good reason) and rumors are flying! So, they informed us that there is not a list of cuts (at least not at this time). We don't necessarily believe that, but I'm not worried. Nothing is going to change if I worry, so I just need to relax and do my job. That is exactly what I am doing.

On a lighter note, the response of "there is no list" came at a funny time for me. My junior class is beginning a unit on Arthur Miller's The Crucible. To prepare for this unit we have been spending a lot of time talking about McCarthyism during the early 1950s. On the day that we received the e-mail about the "list" we had been talking about Hollywood during McCarthyism and the blacklist that circulated there. We had actually watched a clip from The Majestic where Jim Carrey's character is blacklisted but the studio denies that the list actually existed. Now, I am not comparing the school district to McCarthyism. I just find it funny that we were talking about that the same day the administration made that comment.

What's Going On?

I know it has been a little while since I have updated everyone. I have been incredibly busy. I'm not really sure why (isn't that the way it always is?). Anyways, we had our final meetings with our social worker, Robin. The meetings were very relaxed and we had a lot of fun.

I also was able to turn in our scrapbook pages for "the book" that the birthmothers look through. It looks very nice, thanks to Rhonda. Rhonda was the scrapbook warrior Friday night. She is very talented. She could have a business doing scrapbook pages for people who are too busy or do not have talent. Anyways, she worked and I sat back and watched (and helped a little). My mom and Michelle were also there and helped with their input as well.

After all these weeks and months, all we have to do now is sit back and wait. We have no responsibilities at this point. I am not going to say that there is no stress, there just isn't any right now. Just keep us in your prayers.

Good and Bad News

Well...let's start with the good news. Tonight we had our first meeting with our social worker, Robin. She is incredibly nice and I felt instantly comfortable with her. She asked us some questions and explained the next steps in the process to us (nothing really new) and then we scheduled our next meeting. She will come next Friday and meet with Jeromy and 2:00 and when I get home she will meet with just me for an hour. Then, our final meeting will be Monday (Nov. 19) at 3:30. This is going so fast. She says if I get our scrapbook finished we could be "in the book" by December. That means birthmothers will be seeing our information already! How exciting!

Now, the bad news. Our school district had a huge levy up on Tuesday. We are losing a lot of money due to state laws. In the spring, I almost lost my job (if you want a refresher or just don't know what happened click one of the following links: May 9, May 29, and June 5). Miraclously, I still have a job. However, our levy failed on Tuesday. This is not good. I had been told that if the levy failed there would be no saving my job a second time. My friend Michelle may also lose her job as well. I just don't understand why people wouldn't vote for a school district. It just doesn't make sense. One saving grace will be that they are planning on putting the levy back up in March (however, it will be larger due to the money we are losing at the beginning of the school year). We just all need to keep our fingers crossed and hope the voters in Oregon decide that education is important.

Busy Lives...

This past weekend has been incredibly busy, but great! Here is a brief recap:

1) We left Friday after school to visit Jeromy's family in Dayton. It was a great visit. We were able to visit his grandparents and play games with his mom and sister. It was a very nice time! We also celebrated my birthday this past weekend.

2) On Sunday afternoon, Jeromy and I headed off to Lafayette, Indiana for Jeromy to interview for a job there. Lafayette is about an hour north of Indianapolis and is the home of Purdue. Jeromy really liked the job and he hasn't made a decision about what he is going to do. However, it is looking like we will be staying in Toledo. It's a good job, but he doesn't see anything that makes it stand out. That would be fine with me if we stay in Toledo (it took us 4 1/2 hours to drive home this afternoon).

3) One last thing...we have been assigned our social worker and she is beginning her part of the home study this week. This is so exciting!

Trick or Treat!

Kelly just sent me some pictures of Alex and Kelly on Halloween. The first is Elena (dressed as a smore) and Alex (dressed as Indiana Jones) with Kelly. In the second picture they are with Kelly's friend Jenny and her daughter Makenzie. I know I have said this before, but...aren't they cute?

We are finally ready for the Home Study!

On Friday, we traveled once again to Fostoria for the final training meeting for our adoption. It was very informative, but very long. The most interesting part of the day was a panel with two sets of adoptive parents along with their child's birthmother. It was interesting to watch how the two groups interacted with one another. It makes me wonder how our relationship will be with our birthmother. Jeromy and I have talked about it a little bit, but have decided that there is no way to know how we will be until we meet her.

Now, all the training sessions are finished. We have all our paperwork turned in and now all we have to do is make up our scrapbook. On Friday, one of the social workers let me take home one of their scrapbooks to look at. I plan on returning it on Tuesday. I'm also going to make sure everything is turned in and taken care of.

On another note, Jeromy took me away for a romantic weekend. We went to Frankenmuth, MI and the outlets at Birch Run. It was very nice! (especially since he has been working afternoons for the last week) We had a lot fun and enjoyed some bonding time. FYI - it was my birthday this weekend! I'm now 34 (yes, I am old). What a great way to spend my birthday...with my best friend, Jeromy.

We are Finished!

It's time to celebrate! Jeromy and I finished our second "chunk" of paperwork this weekend. I mailed it out yesterday. We also were fingerprinted for our BCI and FBI checks. Now, we have to sit back and wait until they are finished processing everything at Catholic Charities and assign us a social worker.

Until then, we will work on the scrapbook that the birthmothers will look at when choosing who they would like to interview. We also have a day long meeting in Fostoria on Friday.

I can't believe how quickly we are moving! I am so excited!

Meeting Number Two

On Tuesday night, Jeromy and I traveled with my mom to Fostoria for the second meeting for our adoption. Actually, it was the first training session of two that we are required to attend (the first meeting was actually an orientation meeting).

This meeting was much more informative than the first one. We learned more about time frames for the home study. We also learned more details about the Foster-to-Adopt option that Jeromy and I are interested in pursuing. Our next meeting is next Friday.

Also, we are very close to finishing our second "chunk" of paperwork. It should be ready to mail on Monday! This is very exciting! I'll keep you posted!

More Insight...

I seem to be getting a lot of insight lately from God. Last night I was reading the book Free Inside and Out by Marilyn Meberg and Luci Swindoll (it's a book I picked up at last year's Women of Faith). Anyways, I read something last night that really made me think. Here it is (I'll just let it speak for itself)

"I have a reason for going through suffering or difficulty because I have an "eternal inheritance" with God (see I Peter 1:3-4; Hebrews 9:15 KJV). This means when I am in the throes of pain or hurt, God knows all about it and gives meaning and purpose to it so I can learn life lessons. Everything that happens has a reason, even though we may not know some of those reasons until we get to heaven! He takes me through these things to refine me and to encourage others later when they go through the same things. He enables me to grow up through difficult times and experience His faithfulness. In the hard times He's with me, no matter where I am or how hard they get. And He has a great plan to take me through this life into the next...always with Him. That's liberating." - Luci Swindoll

He's Home!

Need I say more?

Depressing News

Okay, I know this may not seem huge to a lot of people, but I am very depressed about it. I was supposed to pick up Jeromy tonight around midnight from the Detroit airport. However, his flight out of Seattle was delayed two hours. There were no other flights that he could take (he asked). So, now he is arriving in Minnesota after the last flight out. Now, he won't be arriving in Detroit until tomorrow morning at 8:30. This is very depressing! I really miss him.

Update on Paperwork and Other Stuff

Okay, I know a lot of people have been asking so I thought I would do a quick update on our second "chunk" of paperwork. We almost have it all filled out. Yesterday, I became CPR and First Aid certified. Tomorrow, the fire marshall is coming to our house to check us out. We both need to get our fingerprints done for a BCI and FBI check. Hopefully that will be completed next week. We each have a packet that we need to fill out and I need to finish the scrapbook. Then, we will be finished. If all of our references have turned in their paperwork we will then be assigned a social worker! This is so exciting!

In other news...Jeromy has been out of town all week for a conference. He is in Seattle. It has been lonely around here, but I have kept busy (thanks to Michelle and Mom). Tomorrow night I am going to drive to Detroit to pick him up from the airport. I can't wait!

Before I go, I almost forgot to mention something I find funny. Yesterday, I missed school because of my CPR training and today my sub mentioned that two more birds entered my room. I think I have a bird magnet in my room.

Fog and Cirque

Well, yesterday was an extremely busy day! It started off with a wonderful surprise...we had a two hour fog delay! That was really nice. However, it came across after I had taken my shower and was in the midst of eating my breakfast. As a result, I was unable to go back to sleep. But, that is okay, because I had a wonderful night's sleep on Thursday.

After the shortened school day, I ran to Lifestyles to work out for a little over an hour. That felt good. I had not been able to work out since Tuesday because I had pulled a muscle in my back at church on Wednesday night. Then, I headed home to Jeromy, his mom and sister.

After a quick shower and getting ready, we all left for a night out on the town. We went out to eat at Olive Garden (my favorite restaurant) and then headed to the Stranahan to see Cirque Dreams Jungle Fantasy. It was very neat. All I could keep saying throughout the show was "Wow." It is amazing what these people can do. Some of it actually looked painful. I was especially amazed by the contortionists. It was a very enjoyable evening!

Videos to songs

After I finished the previous entry, I found a site with the video for the song "Cry Out to Jesus." Here it is for those of you who are unfamiliar with the song.


Third Day - Cry out to Jesus


I also found the video for the song "Everything to Me" by Mark Schultz which I mentioned in an entry in my June blog.

Music Video:

New Insights

This morning I was really moved by the morning service at church. This month we are having a "Big Push". The services are geared toward answering questions that people have. Today's focus was "If I'm okay...why do I feel so bad?" Pastor Norm talked about the symptoms and causes of depression and how turning to God could heal us of the depression. Now, before any one attacks this idea, he also clarified that God may use doctors and medication in certian situations. Anyways...this sermon really hit home since I have struggled so much with this issue.

One thing that really hit me before the sermon was the song "Cry Out to Jesus" by Third Day. I have heard this song a hundred times, but today when we sang it in service it really moved me. Here are the lyrics just in case you are not familiar with the song.

To everyone who's lost someone they love
Long before it was their time
You feel like the days you had were not enough
when you said goodbye

And to all of the people with burdens and pains
Keeping you back from your life
You believe that there's nothing and there is no one
Who can make it right

There is hope for the helpless
Rest for the weary
Love for the broken heart
There is grace and forgiveness
Mercy and healing
He'll meet you wherever you are
Cry out to Jesus, Cry out to Jesus

For the marriage that's struggling just to hang on
They lost all of their faith in love
They've done all they can to make it right again
Still it's not enough

For the ones who can't break the addictions and chains
You try to give up but you come back again
Just remember that you're not alone in your shame
And your suffering

When your lonely
And it feels like the whole world is falling on you
You just reach out, you just cry out to Jesus
Cry to Jesus

To the widow who struggles with being alone
Wiping the tears from her eyes
For the children around the world without a home
Say a prayer tonight

As we sang this song, it hit me that there were multiple times during my struggles with infertility and the miscarriages that I did just that...cried out to Jesus. I honestly do not know where I would be without God. On that same note, here is the Bible passage that today's sermon focused on:

Psalms 42 (New International Version)

As the deer pants for streams of water,
so my soul pants for you, O God.
2 My soul thirsts for God, for the living God.
When can I go and meet with God?

3 My tears have been my food
day and night,
while men say to me all day long,
"Where is your God?"

4 These things I remember
as I pour out my soul:
how I used to go with the multitude,
leading the procession to the house of God,
with shouts of joy and thanksgiving
among the festive throng.

5 Why are you downcast, O my soul?
Why so disturbed within me?
Put your hope in God,
for I will yet praise him,
my Savior and 6 my God.
My [c] soul is downcast within me;
therefore I will remember you
from the land of the Jordan,
the heights of Hermon—from Mount Mizar.

7 Deep calls to deep
in the roar of your waterfalls;
all your waves and breakers
have swept over me.

8 By day the LORD directs his love,
at night his song is with me—
a prayer to the God of my life.

9 I say to God my Rock,
"Why have you forgotten me?
Why must I go about mourning,
oppressed by the enemy?"

10 My bones suffer mortal agony
as my foes taunt me,
saying to me all day long,
"Where is your God?"

11 Why are you downcast, O my soul?
Why so disturbed within me?
Put your hope in God,
for I will yet praise him,
my Savior and my God.

Isn't great to have a God who is always there for us?

The Second "Chunk" is Now Here!

Believe it or not...the second "chunk" of paperwork for our adoption arrived in the mail today! It isn't much larger than the first "chunk," but some of it seems that it will be more time consuming. There is also paperwork that must be filled out by our family doctor as well as a form that must be filled out by the fire marshall.

We also can begin working on the profile/scrapbook which will appear in their "book" at the agency. This is the book that birth parents will look through to choose the couple/family that they would like to adopt their baby.

Jeromy and I are both very excited! It just seems like it is becoming more real! One step closer to bringing our baby home!

Quick Tidbits...

- Jeromy had an exciting shift at Lifeflight on Saturday. He was actually able to fly the helicopter! He is very excited about this (the little boy is coming out). However, his shift yesterday was not as exciting. They flew around for an hour to train the new pilot...that was all. On the upside, this meant that he was able to get a full night's sleep. A rarity on a lifeflight shift.

- We just found out that Jeromy may have to work Thanksgiving and Christmas days. That is definitely one of the down sides of his job.

- Our cell group met for the first time last night. It is no longer at our house, but at Rob and Sharon's. It was nice to get together with everyone since we don't see them very often any more.

- My sister Kelly and her family are moving again. They are buying a house near where they currently live. It is a bigger house and will be nice for them. No details as of yet.

I felt like there was more to share, but I can't remember for the life of me what it was.

The First "Chunk" is Finished

Just a little update on the adoption process. We have finished our first "chunk." Actually, it has been finished for a week, but we have been trying to get a hold of our references before we sent it in.

So, now we wait for our second "chunk" to arrive. Keep us in your prayers!

A Benefit of Being a Teacher

This morning, moments before my alarm was to go off, our phone rang. I answered it and was happy to hear my mom's voice on the other end. She had called to tell me that we were on a two hour delay! I love two hour delays! They don't count against us and it means 20 minute periods (except for the three periods which contain lunch). It was made even better because it was Friday.

Anyways, after hanging up with mom, I called Michelle to let her know and then tried to go back to sleep. Unfortunately, Jeromy had been awaken by the phone and thought it was a good idea to talk. I kept trying to go to sleep and he kept talking. Eventually, he fell asleep. I, however, never fell fully asleep again. Oh well.

By the way, we were delayed because of the fog in the country areas and near the lake.

Never Say Teaching is Boring!

Once again...a bird has entered my classroom. This is a common occurrence. I'm not really sure why. It always makes it exciting (the kids are hilarious...have you ever seen a 17 year old football player dive under a table to avoid a bird the size of a sparrow? Good times.)

I called one of the science teachers (who always rescues the birds who enter my room) and he sent up an AG student to rescue the bird. After about 10 minutes the bird was captured and set free. Unfortunately, the bird was injured in the "capture." There are now blood streaks on the ceiling of my room. Thankfully, the science teacher called and told me the wound was superficial and that the bird flew happily away after a short rest.

Just in case you are interested, the bird is a Red-bellied Nuthatch. It was migrating (it is not normally found in Northwest Ohio). Here is a picture of what it looked like:

The First "Chunk" Has Arrived!

Yesterday afternoon the first "chunk" of our paperwork arrived. We were sooooo excited! We started filling out the paperwork last night. It wasn't as complex and difficult as I thought it would be. We are almost finished with the first "chunk" already!

This "chunk" has been so easy, it makes me nervous about the second "chunk." Everyone says the paperwork is very time consuming, but so far it hasn't been bad. That must mean that the next "chunk" is going to be bad (or everyone at the meeting was exaggerating). Oh well, I guess we just need to wait and see. At least we have started the process and we are very excited about that!

First Step Toward Adoption

Last night, Jeromy and I traveled to Fostoria to our first meeting with the Catholic Diocese about the adoption process. Unfortunately, we did not learn anything new for the most part. We learned that I will need to be certified in Infant First Aid and CPR, if we are to be able to bring the baby home from the hospital. We don't think that Jeromy will need to take the class since he is an ER doctor and all. Isn't it funny that we need to have this certification, but just about anyone else can get pregnant?

Once disappointing thing that we learned is that we could have had our paperwork almost two weeks ago if we would have called. That is so frustrating! We just assumed that we would receive the paperwork at the meeting since they had not mentioned it in their letters to us. So, Jeromy called them today and they will be sending out the paperwork tonight (at least the first "chunk"). I guess that is what happens when you assume. :)

We will keep you updated!

OPA!

This weekend was the annual Greek Fest in downtown Toledo. Alex and Elena were dancing for the first time. They have been working very hard! Today, after church, we went to the Festival to see them dance. Aren't they cute in their little ethnic costumes?



Kelly had to fix their costumes before they danced. When they first came walking out, Elena had lost her hat.





The dancing was adorable. At one point, Alex was between Elena and another girl (not the one in the picture) and he was being torn in two. The girls kept going in opposite directions both taking Alex with them. He was not happy during that dance. Also, there was a song about stomping ants and Elena was stomping her foot so hard that if there was an ant on the ground they didn' have a chance.

Elena's First Day of School

Today was Elena's first day of preschool. She was very excited! Here is what Kelly had to say about this...

Today was Elena's first day of preschool. She woke up at 6am to make sure we remembered she had school today. Followed by a song about her school as we pulled into the driveway. When it was time for me to leave, I said can I have a kiss goodbye? she responded with, "Mom, I'm playing...." I said ok. I'll just stay with you. She of course then jumped up, gave me a kiss and said "ok, go now..." fun. real fun...

Oh the traumas of your baby growing older (I know Kelly...just wait until its mine). Here are some pictures of Elena. The first is of her proudly showing off her Ariel backpack (I think she has a crush on Prince Eric).




The next couple of pictures are of her busying herself checking out all the great toys. Oh what should she play with first?




Finally, Kelly said that she got a good report about Elena when she picked her up. Kelly was concerned because Elena can be bossy at times. The teacher, Mrs. Wilson, reassured her that Elena had not been that bossy. We think that might be code for "just give me time to nip this in the bud." I can't imagine this little angel being bossy. What do you think? :)

Alex's First Day of School

I can't believe it...my nephew started kindergarten today! I have been so nervous and excited about him going to school. I told my mom that if I'm this nervous for him, I can't imagine how nervous I will be when my own child begins school. Here are some pictures that Kelly (my sister, his mother) e-mailed me. The first one is of Alex showing off his new Pirates of the Caribbean backpack.



This next picture is of Alex hugging my niece, Elena, good-bye. I don't think Elena is excited to see him go (or maybe she is).



This final picture is Alex scurrying up the steps of the bus. I'm sure that Alex will do an excellent job at school.

Open House Blues

Tonight was open house at school and it was totally boring. It was two hours long and I spent more time working on my thesis (yes, I'm still working on it) then meeting with parents. I have 115 students and only eight parents stopped in to meet me. That's okay, I got a lot of editing done on my paper. Of course, I would have rather worked on it in the comfort of my own home instead of the oven that is my classroom.

First Day of School!

Today was the first day of school and I am exhausted! It was a little different because I was not actually in my classroom at all. The upperclassmen all had an extra day off as we had freshmen orientation all day today. It was kind of cool.

We are starting a new program that is related to the Challenge Day Program that we have used in the past with the juniors and seniors. This year we are beginning what is called the "Eagle Link Program." I have been paired up with another teacher and we were assigned a teen leader (a senior girl) who has gone through the Be the Change Program. Today we were grouped with five freshmen to lay the foundations of our group. Next week we will have five seniors, juniors, and sophomores added to our group. Then, for the rest of the year we will meet once a month. It will be interesting to see how this works out.

I guess tomorrow will be my actual first day of school. I'm getting excited about starting another year of school.

Texas Hold 'Em and Friends

This evening Jeromy and I hosted our cell group for the final time (we are moving our group to the McQueary's house next week). For our final activity we had a Texas Hold 'Em tournament (no gambling, of course). The exciting thing about it was that I actually won! I can't believe it! I don't usually do well (which is why it is good that I don't gamble), but I always have fun! It was definitely fun tonight.

Michelle took this picture (I stole it off her blog) of me wearing the championship hat after the tournament. I didn't know Jeromy had jumped into the picture. Incidentally, Jeromy was the second person to go out. Isn't he cute?

Final Friday

Today is the final Friday of Summer Vacation! We have meetings at school on Monday and Tuesday is our workday and then the grind begins on Wednesday. Oh Well! It's been nice while it lasted.

A Reflection on Heartbreak

As I was reading my friend Michelle's blog this morning, I saw a statement that truly reflected how I felt about the miscarriages I had suffered. Even though the book the statement came from was about relationships, it made me think about my own heartbreak.

"I am the woman I am because of the heartbreak I've lived through.
This doesn't mean I cherish heartbreak. It doesn't mean I want to go through it again. Doesn't even mean that these experiences were always God's best for me. But it also doesn't mean that they weren't."

As much as losing my unborn children tore me up, I know I am the woman I am today because of it. Why did God have me go through those horrible times? Why, even though God has given me peace, does sadness sweep over me at times in an overpowering fashion? I know God has a purpose for me and a reason for this suffering, but I just wish I knew what that was.

I know that Jeromy has used our suffering as a reference point when at work. My heart breaks when I think about how he has to be the one to tell someone that they are miscarrying the precious child they are carrying. Jeromy has empathy for these patients because of what we have gone through.

Maybe God will use me in a similar fashion some day. Maybe the reason we can't have a child is because God wants us to adopt (which I truly believe) and we wouldn't have done it otherwise. I don't know. I probably will never know.

All I know is that I will never be the same woman that I was before the first miscarriage and that is okay because I believe I'm stronger now. My faith in God is stronger as well.

However, I always wish I had those children who were taken from me. As I sit here, I realize the oldest would be turning three this November and the youngest would have been born a few months ago. I am not happy about the slices cut from my life, but I can use this pain for good and not turn it against myself or someone else.

A Lifestyle Change

This past weekend, my mom and I joined my sister Laura on a search for her bridal dress. Yes, she is getting married to her boyfriend Andy. Anyways, we made a couple stops on this journey the final being David's Bridal.

As mom and I sat on the couch waiting for Laura to appear in the next dress, I started to look at myself in the huge mirror in front of me. To make a long story short, I did not like what I saw. I have been overweight for a while but that mirror was not flattering at all.

To solve this problem and to prepare for Laura's wedding (it's in St. Lucia and Jeromy and I are hoping that we will be able to attend), I have decided to work out on a more regular basis. My friend Michelle has been going to Lifestyles for Ladies this summer and has greatly enjoyed it. However, as the summer progresses she has begun to lose steam. So, we have decided to work out together on at least three days a week.

Yesterday, we went for the first time. I worked on my upper body strength. Even though I had difficulty with some of the weights I am not sore today which really surprised me. We are going again tomorrow and I guess I will be working on my lower body. I will keep everyone updated on how I do.

Garage Sale Excitement? (Maybe Not)

For the past two days we have jumped into the land of garage sales. Why? Because as I was cleaning the spare bedrooms to prepare to paint I realized that Jeromy and I had a lot of "junk" that we never use. So for the past few weeks I have been bugging everyone I can to add their "junk" to ours to have a garage sale.

On Monday, the stuff began to arrive in the back of my Aunt Cindy's car and the trailer hitched to the back end. It took two trips - one from my Aunt Cindy's house and another from my Aunt Judy and Uncle Jim's. Then, on Tuesday my sister Kelly showed up with things that she would like to sell as well. On Wednesday morning, Jeromy and I drove to Eisenhower Middle School to borrow six tables. We then spent the afternoon setting up the tables and I began placing items. Later that afternoon, my mom and Aunt Cindy (with more stuff) came over to help set up. It didn't take too long. We were finished by 7:00 (we would have been done sooner if Mom could have focused before dinner- Mom, you better know I'm kidding).

It really has not been stressful, but it has not been rewarding monetarily either. In the end I'm tired, relieved we are not continuing with it tomorrow, and our house is lighter without all the "junk." I hope the new owners enjoy it.

Really Cool Video!

I saw this video on Good Morning America this morning while eating breakfast. It's not exactly professional quality and drags at some points (they had it nicely edited on GMA). Actually, the guy who filmed it said that he isn't very good with a video camera (this is obvious) and it was actually another guy on the safari who put it up on YouTube.

As I said, it tends to drag and the last minute is pretty worthless, but if you like Animal Planet or Discovery Channel, you'll like this. Enjoy!

I'm Getting Too Old!

Actually, I think the title of this post says it all. After playing softball ALL day yesterday, my body is full of complaints today. It's so sad when you realize you are old.

Finally...Clean and Sitting Down!

Today has been a very long day physically. We had our tournament for softball and our first game was at 11:30 this morning. We played three games in all, the last ending at 5:15. So, let me fill in all the other details.

At 11:30, we played against New Heights (yes, the team which we are very competitive with) and won. Actually, it was one of our best games all season. There were a few innings where they were only able to get three people up to bat and then the inning would be over. Our batting was also much better than normal.

After that game, we had about 45 minutes to grab something to eat and then head over to Loop Park to play Heritage (the team who had to forfeit the previous two games against us, because they broke league rules). We beat them by only three points. By the end of that game I think both teams were willing to hand over the game because we were all so tired. Our age was catching up with us.

So, we headed back to Railway Park for the final game against Northwood (the team we played on Monday). It was a tough game. Everyone was tired and it showed. There were a lot of pulled muscles and other such injuries (nothing serious, thank God). In the end we won by one run!

Yes! We were league champs!

But, now I am home finally clean and able to sit down. Actually, Jeromy just finished dinner so I am going to get something to eat! (Yes, I am spoiled)

Visiting Family and More Softball

This weekend Jeromy and I traveled to Dayton for a visit with his family. We had a great time of playing games, swimming, and just plain visiting.

On the way home we stopped off in Lima so Jeromy could go to an orientation at St Rita's Hospital. He is picking up moonlighting shifts at Putnam County Hospital and this was the last step to do just that. While he did that, I sat in the lobby reading. I like to read, but the lobby was freezing and after a while it does get a little boring.

Once we finally made it home, we decided to rest up for our final softball game of the regular season. We played Northwood Church of God, which was nice because we always have fun playing them. We won our game and ended the regular season in second place. We moved up from 3rd place because the last two games we played were forfeited by the other team. It was discovered that they had played a couple players who were not on their roster (after being told a month ago that they could play if they signed the team roster). I think this is sad because what was supposed to be a fun time with other Christian was turned into something ugly and competitive. The league is not supposed to be like that. If they stay in the league next year, I hope there are no issues.

I almost forgot (I don't know how)...I was injured last night. As I went to get a ball flying through the outfield I overshot it and it hit my arm instead of my mitt. I have a nice ball shaped bruise on my left forearm. It is also a little swollen. Then, a couple of innings later I tried to stop a grounder with my leg. I had a huge bruise on my left shin. Even though by this time I was in considerable pain, I had no choice but to continue playing. We need to have three girls on the field at all times and we had no subs. Last night when I finally got home, Jeromy babied me a little bit with getting me some Motrin and a ice pack. This morning both injuries feel much better.

Another BIG Decision

I have held off writing about another BIG decision that Jeromy and I recently made until we had talked to a couple of people. We have decided to change churches and attended Bethel United Brethren in Elmore. This was a tough decision. We like our current church a lot and will definitely miss seeing some people on a daily basis.

A lot of you who know us are probably asking why, so I will tell you. For the last six to nine months I have not felt as if I was serving the way God was asking me to serve. However, I also did not feel like what He was asking could take place where I was at. Then, before Easter, Jeromy and I ran into Pastor Norm (my youth pastor when I was in middle school and early high school)and found out he was a pastor at a church in Elmore. Later that same day, my mom and I ran into Pastor Norm and his wife Cindy again. During our conversation, I mentioned that I felt called to work within children's ministry. Pastor Norm became excited because they needed someone at his church to revamp their children's ministry. Nothing happened with this until late June when Cindy called to see if we could all get together. We were unable to get together until early July. Everything has moved so quickly since then. I have been praying constantly and talking to Jeromy and finally I gave in to God and decided this is what he would have me to do.

We do not plan on leaving ONC totally. We will definitely be attending our small group still and we will probably attend on random Sundays when we don't get up early enough for the drive to Bethel (20 minutes).

I'm excited about the work God will have me do, but I am also scared. I'm also sad about the people that I will no longer see on a weekly basis. However, I trust this is what the Lord would have us to do and I trust Him.

Softball Loss

Yes, we lost again to Heritage. No excuses, they just outplayed us. At least we had fun! (Well, at least I did)

Another Loss in Softball

Tonight at softball we played a team we have yet to play, Heritage Christian. They are new to the league and so we did not know what to expect. Unfortunately, we lost by one run. It was a good game. We made a few errors and the umpire made some bad calls and in the end we lost. But, we had fun and that is all that matters!

Preparing for the Baby

Even though we have not began to fill out paperwork for the adoption (we found out we probably won't be able to do anything with that until after the meeting on September 11), Jeromy and I feel it is prudent to begin preparing for the baby. This is mainly because we have no way of knowing when we will be matched. So, this week I took the first step in preparing.

On Wednesday, my mom and I began by cleaning out the spare bedroom that is upstairs that will soon be a nursery. I also began working on the curtains for the room (these may be changed when we finish the nursery). Then, today, we began painting the room with Kilz. This is a type of primer which covers dark paint on the wall to make it easier to paint later. The problem is the current paint color is horrible (we did not paint it this way, it was like this to begin with). Here are pictures to show you what the room looked like this morning (the white stripes on the wall was where wallpaper was that mom took down on Wednesday).
























Here are some pictures of us painting the room. Believe me, it was an experience.




Alex and Elena (my niece and nephew) "helped" for a little while.




This is my sister Kelly helping out with the painting. My mom and sister Laura helped as well but my camera died before I could get a picture of them helping. Last but not least, here is a picture of me painting (yes, I helped as well).





Here is a picture to show you the final product.




The next step will be to decide what colors we want to paint the nursery. I will keep you updated on what we decide.

Softball Update and Other Stuff

Today, has been a very busy (and painful) day for me. As I mentioned yesterday, we all headed off to Soak City this morning. It was a lot of fun (mainly because I was able to spend time with Jeromy). However, shortly after arriving I managed to tear off part of one of my toenails. My toe is very sensitive and did not do well in softball cleats.

Jeromy and I left Soak City at about 3:00 so he could get a little nap and we had to be back for the softball game. We played St. Peter's and won a very close game. They were actually winning for most of the game. We came back the last two innings and won (I hit the game winning run (Jeromy) in with my best hit of the year). Unfortunately, we had an injury. Danielle, who plays first base, got hurt at the bottom of the third. We were missing a lot of players and this caused a lot of confusion while we figured out what to do. Obviously, it all worked out in the end. But, keep Danielle in your prayers. She really hurt her back.

After the game we had to rush home because Jeromy had to be at work by nine. After he left for work, I decided to injure myself again. Not really. I decided to grill a hamburger for dinner. While doing this, I got distracted and burnt my left hand. My pointer finger has a nice 2nd degree burn and the rest are suffering from a 1st degree. So, it has not been easy typing this.

Eventful day, a lot of pain, but a lot more fun!

Hot! Hot! Hot!

It is over 90 degrees today! It is very hot! We have spent the afternoon in our pool relaxing. It has helped considerably! Tomorrow we are going to Soak City (a water park in Sandusky, a part of Cedar Point). Jeromy and I are going with my mom, sisters (Kelly and Laura) and our niece and nephew, Alex and Elena. It should be a good time. Jeromy and I have to drive separate because we have a softball game tomorrow night at 6:30. I'm glad we are playing, but it will be hot and unpleasant. Oh well, afterwards I'll come home and get in the pool.

By the way, please keep my friends Tracy and Rhonda and their girls (Bethany, Kailey, Meke and Neti) in your prayers. Tracy, Rhonda, Bethany, and Kailey are currently in Ethiopia picking up Meke and Neti. If you are interested, you can check out their blog here.
I am soooo excited for them!!!!

Rockin' at Freedom Fest

I love the summer!

Yesterday, Jeromy was working a 24 hour shift on life flight (the helicopter that services his hospital and many others in the area. They are the ones who respond to accidents. I'm so proud of him!) and I was faced with a long day by myself. Michelle saved me from that by calling to see if I wanted to do lunch (technically we had kind of planned this the night before) and we went out for some chicken wings at B-dubs.

Then, she had the great idea of going to Freedom Fest which was being held on the other side of town at the Cathedral of Praise. The Christian rock band Pillar was playing that night and it sounded like a good time. We first went shopping (of course) at Levi's Commons and then headed to the festival. We ran into friends from church and hung out with them while listening to the opening bands and simply enjoying the beautiful weather.

After the concert, we were able to enjoy a great fireworks display! All in all it was a great evening spent with friends having a good time. That is why I love the summer!

What are Men Thinking?

Okay, if anyone can answer that question you will win a prize. My friend has been dating this guy for three or four months. They have talked about marriage and plans have been made that extend into September (some which require tickets that have been purchased). On Tuesday, they made plans for the rest of the week and discussed some of the aforementioned future plans. Then, on Wednesday, he called (from work) to tell her that it just wasn't working out! Can you believe it? She was in shock! Actually, everyone she has told this to has been in shock as well. This decision of his seems to be coming out of left field.

Honestly, I think he is a HUGE JERK! I am very upset about this! I have known him for some time, not well, but I never would have expected this out of him. I have offered to go beat him up (I know I can take him). Anyways, I don't understand how someone could act one way one second and another way the next second (my friend's aunt suggested a brain tumor). If I am as confused at this, I can not imagine what my friend is going through. However, I know my confusion and shock has turned to anger. If I ever see him again, he will be receiving an earful!

Yet Another Update on Softball

I'm not really sure when I last blogged about our softball team. Currently, we are tied in first place with two other teams - Heritage and New Heights. Each of us have lost one game within our bracket. We lost a game last week to New Heights. We beat New Heights once and New Heights beat Heritage this week. We have yet to play Heritage. We have two back to back weeks where we will be playing them at the end of July. No matter what happens, at least we will have fun!

This week we played Grace Community. It was a sad game even though we won. We only played four innings because of time. Our bats were hot and we had scored 18 runs in the first two innings alone. Grace was having difficulty in their fielding and in their batting. I feel bad for the other team during games like these. This is mainly because our team went through seasons like that. One year we lost every game in regular season and came back to win the tournament. It's not fun to lose every game and is very frustrating. I hope their luck changes and we head into the final games of the season.

We Have Made a Decision!

I know it's amazing, but we have finally decided on the agency that we will go through for our adoption. We have decided to go with a local agency - Catholic Charities Diocese of Toledo. I know we are not Catholic, but you don't need to be to work with this agency. However, you do need to be a regular attender of your own church and have a pastoral referral.

Why did we choose to go with Catholic Charities? Well, as many of you know, I have been researching agencies for the last few months. I have also been doing some intensive praying on the subject. During this time I was continually drawn back to the Catholic Diocese. Then, Jeromy and I went and met with John and Amy. We met them through one of the Attendings at Jeromy's work. Jeromy had been talking about how we were going to adopt and Dave mentioned that he had friends who had adopted two newborns. He hooked us up and I'm glad that he did. John and Amy went through Catholic Charities for both of their adoptions and had a great experience both times.

I am so excited! We have already begun the process by signing up for the mandatory classes and we filled out the pre-application form. Jeromy would probably also point out that we have written our first checks. This is going to be such an exciting process, but it will also be nerve-wracking. Please keep us in our prayers as we proceed through this process.

Sad...but True

I actually took this video from a friend's blog. It really moved me. Teenagers do not always realize how well they have it here in the United States (and in Australia, in the case of the video). Of course, neither do adults.

My friends (whose blog I took this from) are adopting two beautiful girls from Ethiopia. Actually, they are leaving in in about two weeks to bring them home. With this upcoming addition to their family I have really been thinking about the culture shock they are going to experience when they arrive in the U.S. But, as I think of about this, I realize it is because of all the excess we have. They are leaving a country where people are dying because of lack of food, clean water, and medical supplies and we throw away all of these resources every day. Think of all the food we waste and these little girls are currently living in an orphanage where they only receive one meal a day. I think this is why this video touched me so much.

This is an ad for the "40 Hour Famine" held in Australia. We do the "30 Hour Famine" here in the US. I'm not sure why Australia does 10 more hours. This is an event that is connected to World Vision which raises money to feed people who are starving around the world. Our church has participated in this event the last couple of years (I was unable to attend this year because we were out of town visiting family).

I hope this video touches you like it did me. It can be funny, but in truth I found it sad.

Frustration!

I don't want to get into detail, but I have to vent somewhere and since this is my journaling spot...

I am finding frustration in how God wants me to serve. Through prayer God repeatedly lays on my heart how He would like me to serve within His kingdom. However, I do not feel that where I am currently will allow me to do what He is asking of me. He also seems to be adamant on what He wants me to do.

So, I am left with a quandary. I have an option which would allow me to serve the way God is asking me to serve and it is sounds really exciting to me. However, there is a part of me that is scared to take that step (even though I feel that is the way that God is leading me). It is also scary because there are others who are waiting for me to make this decision because they may make a similar move based on my decision. I don't want to make the wrong decision.

I am praying about this, but I feel that my view is slanted because of my frustration on not being able to use the gifts God has given me. So, I have asked Jeromy to pray just as hard about God's guidance so that we make the correct decision (not just one that will make me happy), the decision God would have us to make.

Job, Riverdance, and Camping

Well, where should I start? The teacher's union had a contract ratification meeting on Wednesday afternoon. I went, of course. I did not want the vote to fail by one. I have not heard the official count, but it was ratified which means that I am 99% sure that I have a job next year. I don't want to become too confident until the school year has begun. Afterwards, Michelle had practice at church for an upcoming concert with Tim and Katie and then she took me out to dinner to celebrate. We went to El Camino Real (a great Mexican restaurant, if you haven't tried it). We had a good time of talking and laughing.

Yesterday was my first day of summer break. My sister Laura dropped off our niece Elena at my house on her way to work. I read her some books (about Ariel and Belle, of course) and we went outside for a little bit. We then went to visit Grandma at work because Aunt Julie wasn't ready to leave yet (we were going to Kelly's house for lunch to drop off Elena and then Julie needed to catch a bus for Cleveland). We finally arrived at Kelly's and enjoyed pizza. Julie managed to get to her bus on time and then I headed home.

Then, last night, Michelle and I went out to dinner at Red Lobster (I haven't been there in forever. I love seafood!) and then we went to the theater to watch Riverdance. I have always wanted to see Riverdance. If you haven't seen it, it is a beautiful performance that includes Irish dancing, ballet, flamenco dancing, tap dancing, singing (in both English and Gaelic), and a band playing Celtic music. Jeromy was working, but that is okay, I don't think he would have enjoyed it. Michelle and I went to Stomp about a month ago and I think that would have been more up Jeromy's alley.

This weekend we are planning to go camping out at Maumee Bay State Park. We had been planning on going out tonight, but it is supposed to storm so we may not go out until tomorrow. For those of you who are not familiar with Maumee Bay, it is a beautiful park right on Lake Erie. It is not very far from our home (less than 10 minutes), so we can head out at any time. It also makes it convenient for Sunday since I have to work with the kids during first service at church. We plan on camping until Monday afternoon, afterwards we have a softball game (which I think the guys are getting antsy. Our last game was rained out, so it has been two weeks since we played last).

Oh, I almost forgot we are also going to a Toledo Mud Hens game on Sunday evening with a group from our church. We really do have a busy weekend ahead of us. Hopefully, I will be able to relax next week and get some work done around the house.

Great News!

No one is going to believe this, but I have a job! Today, during the first exam of the day, two men who are high up in the union came to see me. It seems that the school district is going with a new medical insurance company. Because of this switch, the district is saving enough money to save all the jobs they had previously cut. This means I will be happily teaching English at Clay High School next Fall. Of course, this is not official until the board approves the decision (which they said they would) and the union members ratify the new contract. Once all that is official, I will be able to rest easy!

I am so excited! God is So Great!!!!! The first thing I did when I found out was pray and thank Him for all He has done! I know someone (and some of you know who I'm talking about and are probably chuckling right now) who would say that I am giving God too much credit. I don't believe that is possible. You could never give God too much credit because we could never comprehend all that He does for us!

Update on Job

Well, I received "official" notice last Wednesday that I was losing my job. I had hope until today that I could bump a teacher at Fassett. However, I met with our Assistant Superintendent today and he explained to me why it wasn't possible. It's hard to explain, so if you want to know...ask. I guess now I need to talk to the treasurer's office about receiving unemployment. I'm not sure what I am going to do. I know that I am not applying for a teaching job, but besides that I am not sure.

Well, it's final. We no longer need to wonder. Jeromy and I will have to cut back on some things. We may even have to put off the adoption until next year (I hope not). I know God provides for all our needs so I am not worried about that. I am also still hoping and praying that we can adopt this year (please join me in praying that God will provide us with a way to fund our adoption). Also, continue to pray for me, I have struggled with minor depression issues with the miscarriages, infertility, and other issues, all of this is not helping that situation either.

Softball Update

I forgot to keep everybody up to date on what is going on with our church softball team. Last week we played Mt. Zion Lutheran and lost . But, this week we played Grace Community Church and won.

We are having a great time still. Yes, they are still allowing me to play 2nd base. I guess I haven't screwed up totally yet. (Actually, Jeromy says that I'm doing pretty good.)

What Not to Say...(Part Two)

Today, I realized I forgot to mention something in an earlier post (What Not to Say... - found in January, I'm not sure how to make a link to it). Just in case you don't realize it, you should not ask married woman when they are going to start trying to have a baby. I know people are innocently asking the question because they are curious, but it is not a pleasant question when you are struggling with infertility. It is just so difficult to answer that question. Just a thought for you to keep in mind before you ask a question that might hurt somebody else (especially when you don't mean to).