Monday

Well hello.

I'm well overdue for an update, aren't I?

I don't really know where to begin.

Things have not changed since my last update. I'm still struggling in the same ways. Work is overwhelming and the situation with my church has become unbearably painful. I continue to try to choose joy each day but I'm tired. I'm really tired.

So what's been going on around here...

Well, Sam started high school last month and he loves it. I'm not sure if I told you that he applied for the media arts program last winter, a program that hundreds of students apply for and only 22 are accepted and he was one of them. So proud. He's really enjoying high school life and is making a lot of new friends and has had some really cool experiences in his short time there. I get to drive him to school each day which has been really nice. We don't get a lot of time together anymore but this time in the mornings keeps us connected. And a side bonus of leaving to take him at 7:30 is that I get to work early!

The girls started a new school this year, one that's twice as big as their old school. Julie is in the 7th grade and has really, really appreciated the fresh start this school has given her. She's friends with everyone and her teacher raved about her at the open house last month. She's like a new person! In her old school she was bullied a lot and felt like she'd never get out from underneath that - but in her new school she is so much happier. 

Jordan is in senior kindergarten and goes to school full days now. I was afraid she wouldn't be able to handle it but she's done well and has lots of friends. She really enjoys riding the school bus every day. 

Mattie is a happy, busy little guy, always on the go. He's squishy and cuddly and growing much too fast. My mom is going to bring him to my office tomorrow for lunch and I can't wait to show him off. 

Ian and I are enjoying a few date nights here and there which has been really nice. Sam is old enough to babysit for us so we try to time our dates around Mattie's naps or bedtime. 

Mom rented a cottage at Sherkston again this past August and invited us to visit so we spent five wonderful days there. It felt so good to take a break from real life and just be with all of the people I love the most in the world.

I have lots to tell you, but I'll wrap it up for now. I'm feeling tired and have lots of thoughts swirling around in my head. 

I'll be back again soon. 

Kate

xoxo