The Homestretch

The finish line of our 2013-2014 school year is in finally in sight.  We have finally rounded the last bend headed into the homestretch.  Tomorrow we will put away the books and begin our summer activities like many of you.  We have church camps, sports camps, Rochester Summer Rec Classes, T-ball games, summer basketball league games, and even a trip to visit grandparents.  Big time fun is just around the corner, and since we had to do so much school last summer with all the moves there is NO summer school for anyone!  YEAH!

Uncle Tim and the Ferris crew

It’s been quite a year here in Illinois.  It’s been a very tough year to be quite frank.  Our season of parenting at this time has been the most challenging it’s ever been.  I can’t help but laugh at myself.  I always thought the older they got, the easier it would be. Sleepless nights with a teenager are far more demanding than the sleepless nights with an infant.  Those with an infant drain your energy, while those with a teenager not only drain your energy but can also break your heart.  On the flip side, the victories with these young men and women are amazing as well.  The pride of them taking their first step transitioning from an infant to a toddler is incredible.  The pride of them standing on their own Christ centered beliefs in a group of peers is amazing.  I’m so grateful for God’s faithfulness, strength, and wisdom.  So glad He’s a strong foundation to stand on not only for me as I teach and parent, but for my children as they try to figure out where they belong and who they will follow/lead.



Wax Museum fun at Branson this spring

We’ve finally begun the process of painting and decorating the house!  It’s been so enjoyable to poke around on Pinterest to find new ideas.  Our first room is almost done, Maddie’s room.  She chose a neat Scottie Pup Quilt and a soft pink/gray color scheme.  It’s really turning out to be something precious!  Next I believe are posters for the walls that are purchased but need frames, and curtains.  Then we move on to the bathrooms.  I figured those are the smallest rooms so maybe we will get them done quicker and then I'll really feel like we are making progress! 

Brad and I have been trying to improve our health and have been using myfitnesspal.com and map my walk to meet some personal goals. Brad has lost 45+ pounds at this time.  I'm so proud of him!  I have lost about 20 pounds over the past year.  The last few months for me has been frustrating.  I just can’t seem to break this one particular goal.  We’ve started going to the YMCA here in town.  My hope is that maybe this will be something to help give me that boost!

Neil has been busy this spring by participating in more activities at Calvary Academy – Prom, the school play and playing baseball. Madeline has gone through some training at the Animal Protective League here in Springfield and can volunteer with an adult.  She was even accepted into their summer junior volunteer program.  Sarah is learning to ride her bike and has developed an interest in cheering so we are hoping to find a cheer clinic for her this summer.  Samuel signed up for T-ball and had his first game last night.  I LOVE T-ball.  SO, SO cute to watch these little ones play in the dirt, lay in the grass out in the outfield, laugh, sing, and some of them dance on the bases!  It’s pure therapy!

First Game.  First hit of the year. First time on base. 

The finish line is in sight.  Trying to finish strong.  Looking forward to summer!