Back to School Again

It's been a while since we posted anything, I'm not sure if anyone is still reading this. As soon as we got back from London we had a couple days to recuperate from jetlag before leaving again, this time for Denver, Colorado. Our only chances to see Michael's parents, brother Jack, sister-in-law Janice and 2 1/2 year old nephew Trey are at Christmas and summer. We had to make the trip as soon as we got back so that we could see them before school starts. God has blessed us with generous parents who fly us out to see them when we have time. We had a terrific visit! It sure is convenient to have family in Denver to give us a reason to see the amazing terrain and beautiful mountain sunsets over the Rockies. Trey is at such a fun age. He talks continually and says the funniest things. He sings his ABC song, You Are My Sunshine and Take Me Out to the Ballgame (Rockies style), rides his tricycle around the porch for hours, goes on make-believe trips to Walmart to get treats and particularly enjoys "pattowing" Michael. We are missing them already!

This week I started back to school and get students on Monday. It's nice to be back at the same school in the same classroom. We have to pack everything up every year, but it's easier to unpack in the same room. This is a first for me. I've never spent a third year at any school. It definitely seems to get easier with time and experience. Thursday evening we had "Meet your teacher," so I had a chance to meet some of my new students. I always get excited and nervous to meet my students. It looks like it should be a good year. For the first time ever I have on-grade level reading students. I've always had the lowest reading class (which I have enjoyed and love motivating the students who are used to failing and helping them get excited about reading). I'm not sure what to do with students who are actually on-grade level. I guess I'll find out quickly.

Michael starts back this coming Wednesday. He's happy with his class schedule and particularly looking forward to his two classes with Steve Brown. He is beginning his senior year. We're both excited that the end is in sight!

We heard the baby's heartbeat at our dr's appointment this week. It was strong and steady, just what we wanted. The nurse found the heartbeat right away, even though I'm only 12 weeks and said everything sounded great! We kept hearing a swooshing sound every few minutes. She said that was the baby flipping around. Already the baby has all his/her vital organs and arms and legs can kick and move. God is so amazing in knitting together our little one. Every once in a while I wonder if there's really a baby in my belly, hearing the heartbeat was such a wonderful confirmation that we really are having a baby. Next week I begin my second trimester. 12 weeks was my miracle week. I felt 100% better as far as morning sickness and I have gotten my energy back. Praise God!! Just in time for school.

We are still praying about where God is leading us in terms of London. Nothing has been made clear yet. Believe me, when it does become clear, we'll be broadcasting it to all our friends and family. Please continue to pray for direction. We are so blessed!