Happenings

Life has been crazy. This year, with three kids in school, has been busier than I anticipated. I'm not oblivious... just too busy to have figured that out earlier.

Josh is in fifth grade now. His teacher is fantastic. Homework is gobs better this year. He's even more of a rock star in math than he used to be and he's one in social studies/history too. He's playing trumpet in band now. He was in the MPS Fun Run yesterday and came in 61st of about 100 kids. He's in faith formation class (last year of those - next year he would start youth group if he decides to go). He is a busy, happy kid.

Meghan is in second grade. Her teacher is kind and Meghan likes her. She has more homework this year but tackles it happily. Her writing is fantastic. She tells me it's because she "wants it to be perfect". She is still reading well and loves it. She's in faith formation too and it's a big year... Reconciliation, First Communion and Confirmation.

Lauren is in preschool three days a week. She loves her class and everyone in it. I work in her class once a month (co-op preschool). She is learning a lot and it's fun to see. She has become a fantastic helper around the house. Brian and I can see her maturing (for the most part) and it's fun to watch. She started faith formation this year and I am helping to teach her class. So far, so good.

Claire is growing up quickly. Her third tooth just poked through. She eats like a two-year old. She's taken a few steps but refuses to do it full-time so far. She says a lot of random words ("Spongebob", "I'm hungry") and cracks us up. She's a monkey, climbing stairs and into chairs, and is just a joy.

A month ago, Meghan had hives for a week and a half. Then a week and a half later, she got strep. Two days before Meghan finished her medicine, Claire got croup. It's been yucky and I'm ready for the return of my healthy kids.

I've been stressed. Work's been crazy, life has been busy and I feel like I barely have time to breathe. But I've made some new friends and gotten closer to existing ones and I'm enjoying my time with them and it's keeping me semi-sane.

Brian turns 40 in a month! We're having a party, open house style. If you're reading this and think you'd like to come help us celebrate, drop me a note with your mailing address (or leave me your email address and I'll get your address from you).

'Tis all for now - so I think. I'm making a list and heading to the store soon this morning. We're having friends over to watch some football, have lunch and play today. It's day like this that help in that quest for sanity. :)

Deanna