Nashville Trip

I've been a part of the leadership team at my local MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) group for the past few years. This fall I have the opportunity to spend the weekend learning more about MOPS and experiencing their National Convention. I heard some great speakers and listened to some awesome worship music by Matt Redman, Plumb, Matthew West. It was amazing! For those of you involved in MOPS I recommend going on this weekend. It was great! More on that later....

This was a picture from inside the hotel. There were 3 areas like this. The Grand Old Ophreu Hotel...it was beautiful!

On my last morning I was lucky enough to have breakfast with my friend Brenda. Her family moved to Nashville, it was great to reconnect with her. I miss seeing her every week!! Great to see you Brenda!!

Sisters!!

Gymnastics is done!

Well, the girls started gymnastics at a different place this fall. We just wanted to try out another place. Regan loved it, and Sydney like the old place we went to better. So, next session Regan will be PM and Sydney will go back to a gymnastics/dance class.

Gymnastics has been one of their favorite activities this fall. I'll post a picture from their Halloween Celebration class from Tuesday once I get it loaded.

"I Love Going to the Dentist"

She may live to change her mind, if she is anything like me.

Before going to bed tonight, I reminded Sydney that she is going to the dentist tomorrow to have to cavities filled. I told her I'd be there with her, and I'd hold her hand. I mentioned something about her having to be brave. She looked up at me dumbfounded and said, "Mom, I'm already brave, but don't worry I won't be afraid. I like going to the dentist." I smiled and agreed, that she did a great job last time.

We'll see how it goes....

UPDATE:
Sydney did super at her appointment. So well, that they actually filled two cavities. The dentist told Sydney that she was better than most 8 year olds. The dentist informed me that she needs to pull one of Sydney's front teeth because it was damaged. (fall on the boat this summer) She is worried it will get infected because the root has died. :(

Kitty Manners....

Do they have any?
I am trying to train Lucky to stay off the tables and counters. She gets it, but doesn't always oblige. Is it normal that our kitten is a serious scavenger for any type of fish or chicken that may be sitting on the counter....seriously!!! Yesterday she moved an entire chicken breast that was cooked and on the counter, to the floor, and was happily devouring it until I ruined her fun. Dave looked at me like I was crazy when I told him why his dinner was in the garbage.

I feel like I am constantly on kitty patrol. Like I need more to keep an eye on in the kitchen. We already have two that will likely could clear out the kitchen if I let them.

Heaven has a New Angel

My friend Cari, the one who has been battling an agressive form of breast cancer for the past two years passed away yesterday. We met a few years back at church and spent three years in a small group bible study. I feel so blessed to have had her in my life. She was a wonderful, generous, courageous, and witty girl. A wonderful mom and great friend. Cari always wanted to make sure people felt special and celebrated. Always sharing her faith, and always seeking to grow and deepen in her faith. She was very transparent about life in general, which I truly appreciate about people. You can witness this by reading her blog http://www.undomestic.blogspot.com/. The picture above was taken last fall.

I learned so much from Cari before and during her battle with Cancer; it began in August of 2007. Having lost my own mom to Cancer when I was 8, I felt blessed by being able to support and pray for Cari during her journey. Being Cari's friend during her battle with Cancer helped me better understand what my mom went through during her 5-year Cancer fight. The tears flow readily today; each time I think of Cari....and the kids...and Melvin...and her parents...and all the lives she touched. I am going to miss her kind soul.

My heart just breaks for Melvin, and the kids. I know all too well that their journey will continue for many years to come. I pray that they can find comfort and peace knowing that now Cari is free from pain and with our loving Savior. I know she will watch over them. Continuing to pray for the Ashford/Spitz families in the days, months, and years to come. Please pray for Melvin and Cameron, Max, and Ella...oh, my heart just aches for them.

First Days of School for Jacob and Sydney

The bus arriving after the 1st day of school. The bus stop has LOTS of kids at it each day!

Regan was so excited that Jacob was home from school!

Sydney feeding the baby calf, Tie-Dye. She was very glad to be back on the Farm at Preschool.
Sydney's first full morning of preschool. Regan wanted to stay with her. Next year she'll be old enough :)