An Announcement

I'm just going to have to settle in sharing some big news in a rather small way.

October has come and pretty much passed us by in a flurry of activity and emotion. I haven't been blogging from any lack of goings on, but rather a complete bombardment of events and experiences. Even as I type now, I have just a few moments home before getting on the go again. But, if you hang in there with me, I have stories to share. Transitions to talk about. Words that I am finding inspirational these days. And so many pictures of times with friends and family taken during this last month.

For now though, let me make our announcement.

Starting on January 4, 2011, Russ will be the new District Youth Minister for the Southern District of Mennonite Brethren Churches, and new Youth Pastor for Koerner Heights Mennonite Brethren Church in Newton, KS. Russ will certainly have his work cut out for him, as he tackles these two half time positions that we see easily being two full time jobs. He is up for the challenge though. Our direction seems clear. Our timing with purpose. The tapestry that God has been weaving concerning our lives, appears to be a continuing masterpiece of the Maker, and it is beautiful.

I can only begin in my heart to express what our journey has been and will continue to be. However, if I keep waiting for that opportunity, I may never post another thought on this blog. I have been keeping a personal journal when I can. I can dream of some day freely writing concerning our experiences during this season. In a nutshell now though, we have walked through a month of interviews and announcements. We have cried with so many dear friends of ours in Corn. And even, people in Newton that will become (I trust) dear friends in time. Our hearts and lives are full and overflowing.

We have roughly nine weeks to make a whole lot of items fall in place. Another reason for the lack of time online. I write to share about our lives for our friends and family; to keep them informed and part of our journey. I write so I may remember and our dearest boys may discover another layer later on in their lives.

And for Russ, there is no doubt in my mind and in my heart, that God has been preparing you and our family for such a time as this. May we experience our journey with purpose and fullness and enjoyment together. I am very proud of you.

Football

Finally! I can now mark off "football" on my blog list!

Sam continues to love football. It has been quite the time commitment for our family. But, I think football provided an opportunity to get to know several boys on more of a personal level as he transitioned into a larger school. I confess, at times it is hard to see these little boys get hurt. The team's quarterback broke his foot a couple of weeks ago. His foot is in a cast and he is on crutches. Some come crying as they limp off the field. I am left thinking, what are we doing!? (deep sigh) Sam loves it though! I have seen his confidence grow this fall.

Sam plays center on offense mainly. He likes playing center position, but recently announced it wasn't as fun to just be blocking after he snaps the ball. He requested to his coaches last week that he would like some time on defense to tackle. The coaches are letting him go in every other defensive time as well now. We love our coaches. They are mild and are encouraging growth and a love for the sport. I am so glad (and Sam has said this as well) that he doesn't have coaches that are screaming at the boys. I thank God for how smoothly our transitions have gone on so many levels, and this gentleness in these men are another thing I am grateful for.






Sam is blocking his guy here.







Sam and his friend below have been in class together for three years now. And unbelievably they managed to get placed on the same football team. Again...another blessing!

On - Going Garden

I have been so busy that I don't think about the fact that I have a garden in our yard. And every once in a while, I'll go back there and discover that it is the garden that keeps on growing. I did manage to can applesauce several weeks ago. And I'm generously giving away jalapeno and cerrano peppers to all my friends who love spice. The little cherry tomatoes are like candy for Dellen and myself. And if the weather holds, we should have many more tomatoes and peppers; there are blooms everywhere.

Another Field Trip - also in September

Dellen's next field trip was to a nearby farm. These classes didn't go in the maize, but did enjoy a tractor ride into a pumpkin patch, a skit, a petting zoo, and a small train ride. Dellen managed to pick out one of the smallest pumpkins, and was so happy with his choice. He is with one of his best school buddies in several of these pictures. I love that I am getting to know his friends he talks about when he comes home.

Dellen's First Field Trip - September

Below are some pictures of Dellen's first field trip to the county fair. Parents are welcome to come and help; which I love. We are requested to drive behind the buses. It was a fun time to be part of his event, and yet also get to observe how he does without direct involvement on our parts. Ironically, once at the field trip, I spent most of my time helping with two other students who would wander from the class. One little girl in particular held my hand constantly. My pleasure, but I felt bad as her parents were there too!




Each class drew people pictures. Dellen's drawing is the second from the right on the bottom row. It is an adorable orange person. He has taken a love of drawing, coloring and writing lately.