We have that crisp feeling in the air now. It's the kind of weather that makes me wish I had a motorcycle and a day off. I don't know how to drive a motorcycle but I think it would be fun anyway. The Pinsons came and cut Mom's corn this week. We will probably see several deer foraging in front of the house now.
WHAT A BIRTHDAY PRESENT! In the last edition we wished Vicki's brother, Will, a happy 40th birthday. His birthday was Tuesday. Well, he got a birthday present no one was expecting. At 3:41 that morning Emily Katherine made her debut into the world to the tune of 6 lbs., 1 oz and 16.25 inches long. You may be wondering how a baby can be unexpected–she came 4 weeks early! Emily, Darice, Will and the boys are all doing fine. Congratulations!!!
Speaking of birthdays, Pauline's birthday was Thursday. We celebrated by grilling out Friday night. Aunt Mar was happy to get to eat this time.
THANKFUL FOR ANY SITUATION. School mornings usually run on a calm and predictable schedule, but every once in a while it just doesn't happen. Tuesday was one of those days. Ben was grumpy and even had to be carried screaming to the van. This wasn't too easy as she was packing Nate on the other hip. Yes, Nate can walk to the van but he is not to be trusted. Kids his age have no sense of time and leaving him on his own feet means that he will stop and inspect every bug, worm, leaf, twig, pecan, rock, etc. that is on his path.
Ben finally chilled out and Jenna began her morning prayer with, "Lord Jesus, Thank you for this good morning we almost had."
In Ben's defense, he went to the doctor later that morning and was found to have a major ear infection. I'd have been grumpy too!
ADOPTIONS. Brian and Debbie Freeland have been able to keep their web site updated with news while they are in China and it has been fun to read of their experiences. They are due to come back home in a few days. Brian and Debbie, we are looking forward to seeing Jessica when you come up to Cross Plains.
While the Freelands are finishing up their adoption process some college friends of mine, Brian and Melissa Whaley, are beginning theirs. They are in the process of adopting a girl from India. They emailed the other day to say they have accepted a referral for a girl who will be their future daughter and have decided to name her Morgan Suvali Whaley. Suvali means "full of grace" in Hindi. When you encounter something that makes you think of adoptions please pause and say a quick prayer for the Whaleys. They have a long road of government red tape ahead.
Joe
