Although it's snowy outside

It's been snowy outside for the last several days in St. Louis. The snow has been beautiful. It's the soft, powdery kind of snow that's fun to look at and play in. We've done a lot of playing indoors though. We've read every book, played with every toy, sang every song (I could think of), and played crawling games all multiple times. Needless to say, I'm ready for warmer weather to go outdoors.

There's warm water to play in inside


It's the simple things in life

Dear Friends

We had a great time laughing with, talking to, listening to, and playing with friends last weekend--Burguets, we wish you were in the picture too.

School Days & Mr. Mom

This week I am taking a week long intensive course called "Communicating the Gospel". It's required for my MATS (MA in Theological Studies). I leave at 7:30 every morning, sit in class all day, meet with a group after class gets out, come home in time to eat some dinner, kiss Hudson, put him to bed and do homework for a few hours. Thankfully Trent has this week off of school and work to watch Hudson. While I tell him about class, projects and homework, he tells me about naps, what Hudson ate & his diapers. I enjoy learning and being in the classroom, and am particularly excited about the things I am learning in this class.

During the last 24 hours we have had to devise a 30 min "testimonial" or personal story that we can share at church luncheons, retreats, etc... I shared it with one other person this morning to get some feedback. I am excited to have this in my toolbox, ready to share with others. Next, we're learning how to write a 30 min exegetical message to teach from the Bible. I was assigned Numbers 21:4-9. I had no clue how much work goes into preparing Biblical talks. With that said, I need to do some homework.

Next week starts the regular Spring semester. Trent is taking a full load this Spring. I'll continue watching Hudson and working at the bank 20 hours a week. I'm taking 2 weekend classes during the Spring, but no regular classes. I'm looking forward to spending time raising Hudson and hopefully shaping his heart.

Handyman Part 2

We received the new part, Trent installed it & we've done several loads of laundry. Great job, Handyman Trent! Also, I must give credit where credit is due...thanks for all your input Hudson. The part they're holding is the old timer that had to be replaced.

Handyman Trent

Handyman is not a word that would normally describe Trent. But that is all about to change (hopefully!). Our washing machine has been on the decline for the last month and finally kicked the bucket. After reading some on the internet, Trent has taken it apart, diagnosed the problem (with the help of his dad over the phone...we're really hoping it's the right diagnosis!), and his dad sent us the needed part. Trent called many stores in St. Louis and searched the internet, but couldn't find the part for less than $100. Trent's parents live in a small, friendly town in WV. His dad made one phone call and the man said he'd sell the part to him for $10. Trent is planning on putting the washing machine back together tomorrow.

Some Mad Hot Dance Moves

Hudson's had the stomach bug for the first time, but we knew he was on the mend when he started busting out his dance moves again.

From Trent

5 Years...

...of wedded bliss!


Happy Anniversary Trent!

Happy New Year!!

Happy 2009! Last night, Trent, Brianna, Hudson & I went out for wings & bowling. We had a great time hanging-out & ringing in the new year together.




We enjoyed some nice weather at Lone Elk State Park...it was delightful!

We had to take a detour off the trail when we encountered several large elk on our path


Brianna got her nose pierced on Tuesday

Refreshed

Although I would've chosen to go to WV for the wedding & to hear Trent preach, staying home alone was absolutely delightful! When Trent, Hudson & Brianna got back, I felt rested, rejuvenated & refreshed. That night, Brianna went to bed at 7:45 & Trent was asleep by 8:45. Here are a few highlights of my personal retreat:

-Instead of studying "joy" like I wrote, I studied the beginning of Philippians. It was thought provoking and insightful
-I got 3 great nights of sleep
-I cooked and froze some meals
-I ended up watching several episodes of "Extreme Makeover Home Edition" online instead of chick flicks
-Reading for fun
-running when I want without worrying about naptime or feedings
-Pilates...bringing out that "good" hurt in my abs

T, H & B, I'm glad you're home! This house isn't the same without you!