A Weekly Digest

A continuation of organization took place this week, but it was not only David clearing the clutter.  Alexis became inspired by his efforts, and as he continued on, she went through her "stuff" and placed about 1/2 of her bedroom in give away bags.  Well, I do believe at this point their efforts became contagious, because I caught the declutter bug, and worked on going through some areas of the house that were a bit overloaded and needed tending to.  No, I have not, as of yet, tackled my monster closet.  That will be time and awe consuming.

My mother-in-law and I visited the new (to her) dentist.  I am sending \0/ praises to Him that all went as well as possible.  She was quite unhappy with the former dentist's hygienist due to painful cleanings, and made it known clearly to her family.  I am hoping and praying that she will remain at least satisfied with them.  I love that they explained everything directly to her.  I've noticed that most doctors do not do this.  They look at me, and talk to me about her - as if she were not there.  Although her eyes and ears are failing her, my mother-in-law's mind remains quite sharp.  She deserves the respect of being spoken to first hand. 

Alexis is preparing to leave for camp.  She is understandably excited.  This will be the longest she'll have been away from her family, but if she has to leave us, what an incredible place to go.  Church camp, full of praise and worship time, full of delightful outdoor entertainment, full of Christian bonding time with friends.  I'll be sad to see her leave, but I am so looking forward to hearing about her adventures when she returns.

Friday, Alexis and I had lunch with some friends.  It was really good to catch up with them.  Alexis' sweet friend came home with us and spent the night.  They had a great time swimming and being silly.

David will be leaving us in a few days too.  He will travel up to the location of his prospective job for a 48 hour trial period.  If he gets this job it will be completely challenging in a whole new way for David.  He will not only be responsible for himself, he will be responsible for a group of boys.  (Think instant parenthood on steroids.)  He will have to keep not just a work day schedule, but a 24 hour routine with a group of teens who need structure, encouragement, focus, and direction.  If David is hired by this organization, I believe that the Lord will stretch and grow him in ways that he, and we, never thought possible.  I love watching the Lord unfold His plans on my children.  I'm looking forward to seeing where He takes David this next chapter in his life.   May it be a blessing for my son and to His glory~


Today is my sweet sister' birthday.  I love her so very much.  Mary Lynn is a tenderhearted woman who loves the Lord and seeks to grow and serve Him daily.  Her gentle spirit is evident, always.  She's artistic, and loves to keep her hands busy as often as she can with some sort of craft project.  She adores her family, and is a loving and incredibly loyal wife, mother, sister, and employee.  I am so thankful to have her to share conversations and memories with.  We "get" each others soft spots and triggers, and pray for each others needs and hurts.  I pray that I will encourage her as much or more than she has encouraged me.   She is not only my sister, she is my dear, dear friend.

School pics of my brother Charles, my sister, MaryLynn and me - the baby...