So I'm taking the plunge into the world of blogging! Nothing else to do while the family recovers from the flu! We'll see how it goes! So we have 10 years of life to catch up on here, so I'll probably just start with our second decade together!
James- Currently James is the Associate Pastor at First Free Methodist Church here in Spokane. He just began his MDiv at George Fox University in Portland, OR. He's very much enjoying it--such a change from the James 10 years ago who hated the academic side of school! He's passionate about his relationship with Christ, and equally as passionate about being obedient to meet people where they are at and share Christ with them in a way that's meaningful to them, while being attentive to the Spirit of God. Some call this the "emergent church"--we call it "going and making disciples"! He loves to bike, hike, backpack, camp, and be with his family. He's enjoying a new decade in life as he finally joined me and most of our friends by turning 30 last December.
Abby- I still am living my dream of being a stay-at-home mom and wife, though I still use my counseling skills daily as a parent, pastor's wife, and Christian! I've recently been thinking about what my counseling will look like in the future. I'm homeschooling Sam this year (just pre-school) and very much am considering continuing on with it. I oversee the Children's ministry at our church after stepping down from leading worship last year. I'm still getting used to being a pastor's wife and all that goes along with that. I'm very much anticipating my surprise 10 year anniversary trip that James is planning for us over the next 6 months- our anniversary was in January! I enjoy camping, scrapbooking, eating out, traveling, the Oregon Coast, playing games and doing puzzles, reading and doing anything with my family!
Sam- Is almost 5 1/2, and we can't believe where the time has gone! He's such a fantastic little man who has all the makings of a hero in him, with a strong sense of right and wrong! He loves all things outdoors, especially camping, biking, and hiking (sound like anyone?) and has a dream of being an Army Ranger when he grows up (mom's still getting used to this and is glad he's still 5)! He recently has discovered Legos and amazes us with his ability to follow written directions but also freeform elaborate creations! His brain is wired like his mom's- sensitive, shy, and fiercely loyal, and has shown a keen interest in science; and wired like his dad's- loves adventure, routine, making people laugh, and truly has a heart for the things of God! He asked Jesus to live in his heart during our church's Superhero VBS, and we are so grateful!
JJ- Is almost 2 1/2 and our hillarious little clown! He's very much a cuddler, lover, and caring little boy who wants to live life to the fullest. JJ's our tactile learner- he has to experience everything with his body, and he's our people person! Though both our boys are independent (like us), JJ's streak is a little more fierce! JJ enjoys everything, as long as he has someone to do it with. If he were to have two interests right now, they would be food and music- just like his momma! He's learning to entertain himself, and does well as long as he's in the same room as others. Usually if it's quiet or he's alone, we need to go find out what mischief is taking place! He's a huge fan of his "bubba" and they get along amazingly well for an age difference of 3 years! He too has a love for things of God, even now, and won't let us leave his room till we sing "Jesus" (loves me) to him, both in regular form and in "boom boom chick" a.k.a. rap form!
Baylie- our cocker is still here, though slowly getting more senile as the years go by! The boys love her and she tolerates them! She still dreams of being a horse, and lets us know anytime one is on tv! She'll be 10 this spring.