Start of School "Eve"
Another new school year begins tomorrow. As always, I get a bit teary-eyed to even think about it, but I know the kids are ready. As I prayed with Colson and Jacqueline tonight I prayed that each of us would show His love to those we meet, that they both would be a blessing to their teachers and that God would give them each a very special friend. Previously I mentioned about wanting to switch the kids to another elementary but felt God wanted us to "stay put" where we are. I am also praying that God would use me to be a light to the women I come in contact with as well and that I, too would be a blessing.

Everything is ready for tomorrow. . . the backpacks have been packed with supplies for a couple of weeks; clothing was laid out this morning; the wipe-off board loaded with the weeks activities; and bus numbers distributed. Usually we take the older kids and pick them up but this year, with the rising gas prices andVictoria's nap-time falling at the time school lets out, we decided they could ride the bus home. Of course we were met with excitement! NOT the boys weren't happy about it, yet it may only be a few times a week when Den starts subbing.

On a lighter note. . . . .

We had a FANTASTIC day today at our friends. The weather was
GORGEOUS. The kids had a blast rope swinging into the pond, kayaking,
fishing for turtles, frogs, fish, and paddle-boating (which was my ultimate favorite,
and I spent most of the afternoon with different kids, and even a couple of times with Den, paddling around the pond).
We had great food and fellowship. When Branden arrived he was able to get
the 4-wheeler running and off the kids went, crazily driving the trails. Bryan took Colson for a ride and when they got back Colson came running up and said, "that was sure freaky. . . .but I loved it." Bryan even took Victoria for a ride and she thought she was hot-stuff. Of course, forgetful me, the camera was left home in the drawer. I guess these kodak moments will just have to be etched into our memoires. We came home sun-tired but happy.

A Jacqueline-ism. . . .

(our friends have a floating gazebo and the kids had a blast pushing themselves around the pond with a big pole) Jacqueline and I were out on the paddle boat and she decided that she wanted to get off so she says to me, "mom will you paddle me over to the CASINO. . . .?" I just started laughing and she said, "what are you laughing at?" and I said, "honey, its a gazebo, not a casino!"
How adorable!