Back in the Swing.....

Life can only be on hold for a short time with our busy lives and so it's been time to bounce back from our difficult September. October really doesn't allow me to sit idle or rest for any amount of time. So, whether I've been ready to get back into some kind of normal routine or not is really not my decision to make. My obligations to my family haven't stopped, and so, neither have I.

Personally, I've had more doctor appointments and visits to the lab for blood work in one month than probably the past 10 years! I'm still not finished, as I have two more doc appointments next week to start off November. So far, my blood pressure is under control thanks to a cardiologist and two new medications. I'm still being tested for all kinds of weird disorders. Thank goodness I have what every lab technician has called "good veins".

Here's what's new:

Mike took a week long business trip to Canada and was glad he kept his winter coat when we moved. He joined our new parish's adult choir and started singing at Mass again this past Sunday.

Kaitlyn turned 5 early in the month. She was so excited to get an American Girl doll! She still teeters between being a "big girl" and wanted to be "the baby". I don't mind if she grows up slowly! She sure had fun on her b-day.

Gymnastics has kept Michelle full of excitement and anxiety this month. She competed in the local District Championship earlier this month. From there she qualified for the Texas South State Championship meet. This past weekend she was able to squeeze out another qualification onto the (entire) Texas State Championship meet. That is the most competitive meet she can qualify for at this level. It will be held in Dallas in the middle of November. She's hoping to get her personal highest scores on each event.

Kyle's swim season for both high school and his club have started their competitive seasons. So far he's been pleased with his performances. Nice to see his hard work paying off!

Reid's active with JROTC and has finally started his Confirmation classes in order to be confirmed this spring. He's been waiting a long time and is in a very dynamic and orthodox program. I'm excited that he's getting a chance to be catechized so well!

Brian's doing fine up in school and joined us this past weekend for some R&R before heading back to finish up the semester.

We had another family b-day with Andrew turning 7 a few days ago. He's been so excited all month counting down the days. He invited a few friends to a bowling party and I was really happy that all our family was there. Everyone had fun--the big brothers & sister bowling together and all the party kids in the lanes next to them. The little boys got to the point of pushing 3 balls down one lane at the same time and laughing the whole time! As we walked to the car, I asked Andrew how his party was. I loved his reply, " It was perfect! Better than I thought it would be." Cha-Ching--score one for a happy birthday boy!!!

Every time Andrew rolled the ball, he ended up on the floor!

Taking a break to eat.

Making a wish!

We couldn't leave Brutus out this month. His news is that he's become a Big Brother! Yep, just to add to the craziness, we added a puppy to our family! He's a 7 week old Beagle that will most likely be named Rocky.

Coming home:

Furry brothers :

Taking a ride thru the neighborhood:

As you can see, life is busy and full. I'm happy to be so Blessed to have some good stuff to post!

Thank you all for your prayers and support these past few weeks!