We didn't fall off planet earth..........

Hello out there in blogger land -

I know it has been a while since I updated, life has gotten a bit out of control.

Here is the update I promised to do the week of the 21st; Darryl's report was okay, not a shocker, but normally the 1st quarter is a good one, it is here on out that we need to stay focused on getting the work done, however we can't go to school with him and make sure that he turns it in. What is a parent to do (any helpful hints from those with boys would be much appreciated)?

Last Tuesday we went to part of Darryl's Parent/Teacher conferences (we were double booked - Isaac had a game at 6:00). His teacher's had good things to say, the same thing that we have heard for a few years, he gets it and is bright, just doesn't always turn in the work. We are finishing his conferences on Thursday (or most likely Russell, since I am not certain I will make it home in time). Tonight were Parent/Teacher conferences for Rachel. All of her teacher's had glowing things to say about her......that she is a joy in class and does not follow the crowd and is her own person. We are thankful for that, we so pray each and every day that she continues on that path, and doesn't give in to peer pressure. Her pre-algebra teacher says she is making good progress and is willing to work with her after school. Her Language Arts teacher said that Rachel is a very good writer and is making it her goal for Rachel to get a distinguished, that she is almost there. Tomorrow night is Parent/Teacher conferences with Isaac's teacher. I am sure we will hear that he needs to apply himself and stay on task (that was the comment on his report cards).

We are enjoying the fall weather, and the beautiful change of season. I am hoping to get some pictures this weekend of the wonderful color. It was an amazing experience to look out my kitchen window and see the hillside full of fall color!

Friday is Rachel's 13th birthday concert, she (or should I say we, Russell, Rachel and I) are going to Alan Jackson and Trace Adkins. I am off work on Friday and am not sure who is more excited, Rachel, Russell or I. It will be a great time.

I leave you one last blessing - a wonderful husband who over the past year has endured far more than I am sure that ever thought he would have to endure. God knew what he was doing when he sent him to me (and Rachel and Isaac). I love my kids, all of them, as they are very unique and bring such wonderfulness to my life, even though sometimes they make me crazy. I am thankful for parents who loved me enough to bring me into the world and do the best that they knew how, as I have now learned, children do not come with manuals and every day is an adventure (I miss you both so much)! I am thankful for family, without them (especially my Grandma-as a little girl I so wanted to be just like her-ironic that my life in a lot of ways was a replica of hers) I wouldn't be who I am today - thanks for never giving up on me and always loving me no matter what! I am thankful for my "newer" family - the Spencer's! They welcomed me into their lives and even thought I don't tell them often enough, I love them all very much and consider myself lucky to be a part of them! For those people in my life that are family (and you know who you are), for being there for me through everything and holding me up when I couldn't do it myself! God sent each and every person into my life for a reason and/or a season. Most of you reading this were sent for a reason and not just for a season!

I have much more I could say, but I think I have rambled on for long enough! Until next time, take time to stop and look at the changing colors of the leaves, breath the crisp morning air and enjoy life, it a true gift from God - treasure it!

Love from Kentucky!